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A word about Winward by proprietress, Sandy Jean.
A Full Service Equestrian Center
Winward Natural Equine Center has operated in Wilton, California for over 40 years. Ourtree-shaded facility is located within 20 minutes of Elk Grove and Rancho Cordova and just 30 minutes from Sacramento.
We aim to maintain a safe and happy atmosphere for all horses and people.
If you are considering a new home for your equine companion, we’d love to show you around and answer any questions. Feel free to talk to other boarders and see what they think about our place. Look at the condition of the horses.
- 2 Covered Arenas
- 2 Round Pens
- 3 Lit Arenas
- Five Grassy Turnouts
- Horse Playground w Obstacles
- Grooming Areas w Trees
- Owners and Managers Live Onsite
- Mini Trail and Riding Trails Minutes Away
- Lessons – English Western, Natural Horsemanship, Ground Work, and Children’s.
- Free Trailer Parking
- Senior Care Specialists
- Shaded Picnic Area
Horse Training
Individual training is available, either on your horse or a training horse from the ranch. Training for your horse with you watching and learning from the trainer can focus on specific needs and trouble areas.
Boarding
Our main focus is boarding. We provide stalls (all with paddocks) in a cleanand stress-free atmosphere. Our stall cleaners are horse lovers, not just people working a “job”.
Our main focus is boarding. We provide stalls (all with paddocks) in a clean and stress-free atmosphere. Our stall cleaners are horse lovers, not just people working a “job”.
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About Sandyjean Winward
Sandyjean Winward has had a long career with horses. She has been a competitor in the Arabian world and an Arabian breeder and trainer. However, several years ago she decided that what appealed to her in the training field, was to only train horses with their owners’ participation. So often, horses are trained very well, but then sent back to owners who don’t understand how to keep that training in place. This has been very successful and is the only kind of training done at the ranch.
Our main focus now, however, is boarding. We provide stalls (all with paddocks) in a clean and stress free atmosphere. Our stall cleaners are horse lovers rather than people who just work at a “job.”
Our Partners
Andy and Celina Root
A little bit about our WNEC partners Andy and Celina Root. Andy Root grew up spending his summers out here in Wilton helping his grandfather on his ranch, working and riding Tennessee Walking horses. As he became a teenager he worked alongside his father in commercial construction and became a skilled finish carpenter, he can build and fix just about anything you can imagine. He has always done horse work and did an apprenticeship with a farrier many years ago. Andy currently stays very busy working in the horse show world, here maintaining the ranch and locally providing service to other ranches.
Celina Root grew up in Elk Grove always loving animals and livestock. Celina was very active in FFA at Elk Grove Highschool which made her love for large animals grow deeper. She searched for any opportunity to be near horses and work with them, that’s how she met Sandyjean. When she was 16yrs old she cleaned stalls here at Winward Equine to learn about horsemanship and left when she was 18yrs old to work full time as a veterinary technician, which she still is currently working as. Celina has worked with local large animal doctors and local small practice veterinarians, so you may recognize her. Here at WNEC, Celina offers turn outs and occasional grooming services. Well, that’s just a little bit about Andy and Celina Root!
Trainer Sierra Backman
(916) 915-2287
Sierrabackman (at) g m a i l . c o m
Hi there! I’m Sierra, a horse trainer based in Wilton, California. I’ve been working with horses for years and I’ve learned that the key to a happy, healthy, and well-trained horse is building a strong relationship.
I offer a variety of services and begin with a natural horsemanship philosophy. From training young horses to giving lessons to riders of all ages,I’m passionate about teaching horses to be confident and well-behaved, both on the ground and in the saddle. I also love working with mustangs and helping them adjust to life with humans.
When it comes to lessons, I focus on all aspects of horsemanship, not just riding. I want my students to learn about horse care, building a connection with their horse, and improving their communication skills. I’ve helped many people find their perfect horse and learn how to care for it.
Horses have taught me a lot about love, patience, and setting boundaries. I believe that every horse deserves to be loved and respected, and that’s what I strive to teach my students.
Want to learn more or schedule a lesson? Give me a call or send me an email. Let’s start your horse’s journey together!
Contact Us
Services
Horse Boarding
Horse and Rider Training
Contact
@ g m a i l . c o m
(916) 687-8900
Hours
Open 7 days a week
365 days a year.