S.T.A.R.S. of Horsemanship, Gilbert

Danya Wright began riding horses at 6 years old as part of Arizona's 4-H program, bonding quickly with an arabian mustang pony named Shawnee. After more than 35 years of riding, Wright still draws upon her formative early experiences as she instructs student riders through the S.T.A.R.S. of Horsemanship program.

At Triple L Stables in Gilbert, Wright leads students in English and Western riding while focusing on communication between horses and riders. She encourages many of her students to ride bareback, a technique that allows horses to pick up subtle cues that saddles block, such as riders bouncing to the rhythm of the Lone Ranger theme.

Wright boasts impeccable credentials, holding a degree in equine science and a certification from the American Riding Instructors Association. She's also a registered equestrian coach for the Special Olympics and keeps her first-aid certification up to date to keep students and horses safe.