Laura Backus is a distinguished eventing instructor and co-owner of Pendragon Stud Equestrian Center in Larkspur, Colorado. With over 40 years of teaching experience, she holds a USEA ECP Level IV Instructor Certification and has competed through the 3-star level in eventing and Grand Prix in dressage. Laura has coached numerous students to success, including placements on USEF U18 and U25 training squads, as well as multiple USEA American Eventing Championships titles. Her training philosophy emphasizes developing harmony and teamwork between horse and rider through understanding horse behavior and implementing kind, progressive methodology. Laura’s dedication to the sport and her personalized approach to instruction have made her a respected figure in the equestrian community.
Her accomplishments include:
- USEA ECP Level IV Instructor Certification
- 2019 was inducted into the U.S. Pony Club’s Academy of Achievement
- Recipient of the 2015 Colorado Horse Council Colorado Horseperson of the Year
- Recipient of the 2012 Craig Ferrell, MD. Equestrian Safety Award
- Awarded the United States Pony Clubs “20+ Year Local Legend Award” in 2012
- Level III-certified instructor by the American Riding Instructors Association (ARIA) in Eventing and Dressage
- 2009 ARIA National Instructor of the Year
- Is an H-A level graduate of The United States Pony Club
- Holds her USDF Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals (all on horses that she produced)
- Has taught Eventing and Dressage for over 40 years
- Has competed through 3-star level in Eventing
- Numerous students on USEF U18 & U25 training squads
- Numerous students have received their USDF Bronze and Silver medals
- Has trained numerous horses through FEI level in Dressage and Eventing