About Verena
Welcome to VS Dressage. I'm glad you're here!
Dressage has been my lifelong passion with a consistent pursuit of excellence.
From my early roots in Germany to managing a top tier Dressage stable in the Netherlands, my foundation and philosophy is shaped by decades of training and competition within Europe and North America’s top dressage programs.
As a USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold medalist, I thrive on trying to bring a unique perspective to the arena: translating complex technical concepts into clear, actionable coaching that helps riders and horses progress with confidence.
Whether you’re preparing for your first recognized show, earning USDF medals, or pursuing international competition, I provide individualized training for both horse and rider.
Join me as we work together to -
~ Master the Art ~
More About Verena
Classical dressage training and quality dressage horse sales
Verena is an accomplished dressage rider, trainer, and owner of VS Dressage Inc., based at Emerald Equestrian Center in San Marcos, California. Her career spans over two decades and multiple continents.
The Foundation: From Germany to the Netherlands
Verena’s equestrian education began at age five in Germany, but it was her move to the Netherlands that truly forged her craft.
-
Elite Mentorship: Spent years under the tutelage of Bert Rutten (former Chef d’Equipe of the Dutch Olympic team).
-
Top Sport Immersion: Rose to the position of First Rider and Stable Manager at the Rutten facility.
-
Unmatched Experience: Spent thousands of hours training hundreds of different horses, from starting youngsters to competing in the prestigious Pavo Cup trials.
"To truly absorb classical techniques, you must immerse yourself in them every day. I sat in the ménage day in and day out—even when exhausted—to devour every morsel of information." - Verena
A Proven Record in Coaching & Competition
In 2009, Verena launched VS Dressage Inc., a full-service training company that has since produced championship results across North America.
-
International Success: Coached two riders for the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara.
-
Youth Excellence: Guided Canadian Junior rider Chase Robertson to Bronze and Gold medals at the 2018 NAYJC.
-
Grand Prix Development: Successfully developed horses from young horse through the FEI levels, consistently achieving high marks in the championship arena.
Continuous Evolution
Verena believes that a true master is always a student. To provide her clients with the most modern and effective techniques, she trains regularly with the world's best:
-
Guenter Seidel: Working with the Olympic legend to refine attention to detail and precision.
-
Christine Traurig: Current Chef d'Equipe of the US Dressage Team, as well as Technical Advisor and Development Coach for the program.
-
Juan Matute: three time Olympian; mentor of the Piaffe and Passage through expert in-hand
Join VS Dressage
Based at the beautiful Emerald Equestrian Center in San Marcos, CA, Verena offers a comprehensive suite of services for the serious equestrian:
-
Training: Tailored programs from young horses through Grand Prix
-
Clinics: Available for booking throughout the US, and Canada.
-
Sales & Consulting: Expert guidance for finding your next equine partner or managing a high-end sale.