SANTA BARBARA COUNTY CHAPTER
of the
CALIFORNIA DRESSAGE SOCIETY

Meet a Santa Barbara high schooler who's traded western saddles and polo mallets for dressage — and hasn't looked back. From showing an Oldenburg named Bleu to earning her Pony Club C2 certification, this driven young rider is just getting started. Read on to meet one of SBC-CDS's most exciting up-and-coming members.

The 2026 Spring SBC-CDS Dressage Show returned to Earl Warren Showgrounds in Santa Barbara for a weekend of flawless rides, bedazzled boots, and — perhaps most memorably — some outstanding churros. From Olympic-level competition to a Saturday Night Fiesta that had everyone talking, this year's show was a reminder of just how special the Southern California dressage community can be when it comes together.

Meet Stephanie Gustafson — Ojai-based dressage rider, retired equestrian director, and founder of Symmetry in Motion Equine Bodywork — who balances competing three standout mounts (Goldenrod, Cora, and Leandro), launching new educational events for the Santa Barbara County CDS, and exploring Working Equitation and international riding adventures.

SBC-CDS members gathered on January 25, 2026, at Convivo Restaurant in the Santa Barbara Inn for the Annual Awards Banquet, celebrating the accomplishments of riders, volunteers, and leaders who make the chapter thrive. The afternoon featured heartfelt recognitions, award presentations, and special thanks to longtime board members, all in a warm setting filled with camaraderie and appreciation.