Lakewood Equestrian Center Trainers
Sofia Bernardino
We are proud to offer lessons and training with Sofia Bernardino! Having dedicated her life to horses and riders, Sofia brings years of experience and passion to her work. She is currently available for training resident horses at the Lakewood Equestrian Center, with limited availability for haul-in lessons or training.
Sofia has experience working with a wide variety of breeds—from Warmbloods and Stock horses to Iberians. She believes that every horse, rider, and owner has unique goals, and she is committed to helping define those goals and guiding each partnership along their journey. Sofia works with clients of all levels, from beginners to advanced riders, always striving for excellence and growth.
In addition to coaching, Sofia develops horses in training to compete at the national level, with aspirations to go even further. Her philosophy is rooted in the belief that true success between horse and rider begins with the health, wellness, and care of the horse. By pairing that foundation with thoughtful progression through the scales of training, she strives to create refined, confident, and happy equine partners.
Pepe
Pepe is a horseman who has devoted his life to working with horses and the people who love them. With experience across a wide range of breeds and disciplines, Pepe brings both knowledge and passion to every aspect of horsemanship. His greatest interests are barrel racing and team roping, but his approach emphasizes balance—keeping horses happy through a mix of arena work and time on the trail.
When not working with his own horses or helping clients with theirs, Pepe can often be found traveling to competitions. His lessons focus on building strong partnerships between horse and rider, with an emphasis on communication, understanding, and mutual respect.
Pepe believes that every rider and horse can achieve their goals, whether big or small. He works alongside his students to create clear goals and guide them step by step toward success.
Sandie Mercer Stables
Sandie Mercer offers lessons and training onsite at the LEC. Sandie Mercer Ranch, Inc. has a well-established program of bring new riders along. A stable of suitable school horses are available for students to start and learn on. Programs provided by Sandie Mercer Ranch include summer camps and scouting group programs along with year round private and group riding lessons. Introductory English and western lessons are $85 per 1/2-hour private lesson. Discounted packages of 4 and 8 weekly sessions are available. Training of privatly owned / leased horse and riders is available through Sendie Mercer Stables. Training packages can be customized to fit the goals and needs of each horse/rider pair.
Sandie grew up on horses from age 2 riding and showing hunters, Jumpers and equitation along with Saddle seat and western disciplines. At 15 she began teaching lessons at Equestrotel Stables in Long Beach and moved to Lakewood Equestrian Center in 1986. Sandie and many of her clients have local and national wins and year end Championship awards within the regional divisions throughout Southern California. Sandie believes in the public riding school model offering horses for clients to learn on prior to buying or leasing their own horse.
Barnyard Buddies
Lessons for the youngest riders ages 3-7 are available throuh our pony ride operator. Beginning lessons and basic horsmanship skills are offered on super safe ponies and small horses. BYB lessons are a great first step for any aspiring young equestrian!