Trainer Profiles

Varian Equestrian Center features a skilled team of trainers known for their expertise with all breeds and personalities, from spirited Arabian stallions to easygoing family horses and mules. They combine decades of experience and “The Varian Way” philosophy, emphasizing trust and a solid training foundation.

Mike Perez

• Known as the “horse whisperer” at Varian, Mike has worked on the property for over 20 years, directly learning from legendary horsewoman Sheila Varian.

• Specializes in groundwork, desensitizing, halter breaking young horses, respectful ground manners, and preparing for the halter arena.

• Expert at building foundational trust and respect, making him ideal for challenging or inexperienced horses of any breed.

  
  

Jaime Hernandez

• With nearly three decades at Varian, Jaime is a master at starting horses under saddle and spans multiple riding disciplines: English, Western, trail, and dressage

• Offers one-on-one lessons tailored to strengthening the rider-horse relationship and prepares horses for pleasure, ranch work, trail, and arena performance.

• His training program is praised for producing horses with a strong, reliable foundation, recognized by show trainers across disciplines.

What the Trainers Can Do

• Handle every personality, from “hot” stallions to gentle, stubborn mules.

• Offer groundwork, halter and saddle training, desensitizing, and specialized young horse handling.

• Teach English, Western, trail, pleasure, ranch, and dressage riding.

• Provide private and group lessons tailored for all ages and skill levels, including beginner riders and those seeking a deeper partnership with their horse.

• Prepare horses for shows, clinics, and confident recreational riding across all breeds.

• The trainers at Varian Equestrian Center are lauded for their ability to develop well-mannered, confident, and versatile horses, extending a welcoming hand to every breed and temperament

Location: 1275 Corbett Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Phone: (805) 664-1401