Hello.
I am Nikala Ward, sole owner and operator of Ward Equine, established in 2012.
I run my business the way I run my life. I am rooted firmly in my integrity, authenticity and a commitment to never-ending growth.
This carries over into my program — both for my horses and my riders. Striving to shape and sharpen our strengths and challenge our weaknesses, in the saddle, in the barn and also in ourselves.
I am extremely passionate out self-development and work heavily with my own coaches, which in turn, trickles down to into my teaching.
I have spent the mass majority of my career focusing on young horse development and building a roster of amazing students and clients, and look forward to bringing along my 5 y/o Condios CC Z mare to hopefully be a 1.20 prospect. I am excited to lean into the competitive side of my career moving forward.
What I bring to the table
I am a long time Equine Canada Certified & Insured NCCP Coach, 2015.
I’ve spent 3 years in an Equine Sports Medicine Practice, soaking up the medical aspects of Horse Management resulting in fantastic relationships with some of the best veterinarians and farriers and much more diverse knowledge of vet care.
I am a Certified Master Saddle Fitting Consultant, MSFC 2022.
Life long student to the sport with time spent riding with names such as Alex Grayton, Robert Gharibzadeh, Ashleigh Charity, Dustin Cossaboom, Robin Hahn, Gordan Dalshaug (dressage), Erin Crawford (dressage), Kyle Fischer (cutting horses, horse training).
But personally…
I am an animal and people lover through and through.
I have 3 dogs, Ellie, Kona and Russell.
I grew up around horses since the age of 8 and couldn’t stay out of the saddle from that time on.
I used to be a competitive figure skater in my youth.
I love challenging myself in the gym.
I am a growth mongrel — how can we evolve as humans in our time spent here?
I am a huge foodie! If you have a restaurant to recommend, I am all ears, all the time!
I have been blessed to travel to Europe on multiple occasions, both for horse shopping, saddle
fitting and also for some fun travel.
I was born and adopted from Europe before coming to Canada as a 6 month old!