Elana von Doeler
Hi I’m Elana,
I work with riders who are serious about their horses and their progress — and want clarity in how they train, show up, and perform under pressure.
Whether you’re building foundations or refining performance, my role is to help you see what actually matters, let go of what doesn’t support you, and build systems that can hold the level you’re stepping into.
From Pushing to Understanding
Like many capable riders, I once relied on hard work and drive to move forward. That approach took me to a certain level — but it also masked layers I wasn’t yet aware of.
Over time, I realized that being busy wasn’t the same as training intentionally.
Connection, feel, and the ability to accurately read what my horses needed were often overshadowed by pressure, expectations, and outside noise. Unaddressed tension — both physical and mental, in myself and my horses — quietly limited what was possible.
The next level didn’t come from doing more.
It came from slowing down, rebuilding from the inside out, and creating systems that could actually support the level I was asking for.
That shift changed everything — not just in how I train, but in how I work with and understand both horses and riders today.
A Grounded Perspective, Shaped by Experience
My background spans decades across the equine industry. I’ve had the privilege of competing at the international 3* level in three-day eventing and now train and compete in barrel racing across North America.
I didn’t grow up in a horse family, but I was fortunate to grow up on a farm where I built my life around horses. That path led to founding and operating Von Doeler’s Ranch — a working guest ranch, training, and coaching business for over 17 years.
Through competing, training horses, supporting riders, and running a business, I’ve dedicated my life to this work. Along the way, I’ve trained under Olympians and world champions, with a continued commitment to learning and development.
Working across disciplines, environments, and levels of responsibility has given me a clear perspective on what actually supports long-term success for horses and riders.
Talent and effort matter — but without the right systems and regulation, they don’t hold.
My Approach
Today, I help riders understand their horses, release unhelpful patterns, and build supportive systems in their training, habits, and environment — systems that can hold their next level without sacrificing soundness, confidence, or connection.
This work is designed to meet riders where they are and integrate seamlessly into their current programs. Riders develop greater awareness and feel, learn how to expand capacity without force, and gain the tools to refine both their riding and daily routines in a way that supports long-term progress.
When the systems are solid and the vision is clear, the process begins to feel lighter instead of overwhelming. Confidence becomes steady. Performance becomes something that can be built — and sustained.
A Commitment to Learning
Good horsemanship carries responsibility. The decisions we make directly affect a horse and rider’s body, mind, and long-term well-being.
That responsibility is why continued learning remains central to my work. Staying curious and informed allows me to integrate science, bodywork, psychology, and real-world horsemanship in a way that supports regulation, soundness, and longevity.
Learning is integral to how I lead, teach, and continue to grow alongside the horses and riders I work with.
Experience & Credentials
My approach is grounded not only in philosophy, but in real-world experience across disciplines and environments:
International 3* competitor in three-day eventing
WPRA barrel racer with 18+ years competing in rodeo across North America
15+ years coaching riders across disciplines and levels
Founder and operator of a working guest ranch (17+ years)
Licensed Equestrian Canada Specialist Coach
Certified Advanced Equine Massage Therapist
Certified Mental Performance Mastery Coach
University of Guelph graduate in Equine Science, Business, and Physiology
Apprenticeship and training under Olympians and world champions including Hawley Bennett, Gina Miles, Lisa Lockhart, Stevi Hillman, Cheyenne Wimberly, and Ron Ralls
This work is for riders who value depth, responsibility, and longevity.
If this resonates, stay connected. Follow along on social media for ongoing insight, or join the newsletter for thoughtful updates, education, and practical guidance.
When you’re ready, explore the programs below to see how we can work together.