Lauren Wood
Owner, Head TrainerAt Golden Gate Equestrian Center, every rider’s journey is unique, and Lauren Wood has a gift for helping them find the right path. As an Owner and a Professional Hunter/Jumper rider, she brings over 15 years of experience in training, competition, and rider development, along with a sharp eye for matching the right horse with the right rider.
Lauren’s passion for the sport started early, earning top honors in both the Hunter/Jumper and Western Pleasure circuits before competing at prestigious events like the Capital Challenge Horse Show. She also captained the University of Wisconsin–River Falls IHSA Hunt Seat team while earning her degree in Agricultural Business, an experience that shaped her ability to develop riders in a structured, yet adaptable way.
What sets Lauren apart is her creativity and ability to tailor her training to each individual. Whether she’s guiding a beginner through their first show,keeping her adult amateurs focused, or fine-tuning an advanced rider’s skills, she keeps lessons fun, engaging, and productive. Her natural sense of humor and easygoing coaching style makes every ride enjoyable, but when it’s time to focus, she knows how to push riders to achieve their goals.
Beyond instruction, Lauren has an incredible talent for horse-and-rider matchmaking, helping students find the right partner to bring out their best. As a dedicated owner, she ensures that GGEC upholds the highest standards of horse care and training, creating a supportive, horse-first environment where riders can build confidence, refine their skills, and reach their full potential.
“Horses have been part of my life for as long as I can remember, and that love for the sport is really what shapes everything we do here. Competing and leading a college team taught me how important it is to stay patient, pay attention to the little things, and always focus on progress over perfection. Whether I’m helping a rider build confidence, move up the levels, or guiding a horse to perform at their best, I try to keep things positive and fun. Seeing riders reach new goals, whether it’s their first show or stepping into national AA shows, is what makes this so rewarding.
Just as important as our riders success, is ensuring that every horse receives the highest level of care. We believe happy, healthy horses are the foundation for real progress, so we prioritize their well-being in every aspect of our program. At the end of the day, it’s all about creating a space where both riders and horses can learn, grow, and enjoy the journey.”
ABOUT
Lauren Wood
