About Back to Basics
Since 2014 Back to Basics served as a starter barn for many riders who either were brand new to horses or are seeking to get back into the and accomplish goals that they have always wanted to reach. After the 2019 snow storm when the roof of the arena collapsed at the flagship location it wasn't a question for B2B if they would find a new home or close its doors. The Weideman family choose to seek out a new home so that the B2B family could stay together.
We found our new home in the town of Rochester, WA. The year of 2019 was an amazing year at our new home and we made many new friends. Sadly December brought on changes for the Weideman family with the passing of Instructor Sarah's mother. With much of her family in Alaska and the longing for a return the their home state the hard choice to close the doors of B2B in Washington was made. In February of 2020 the Weidemans shed a tear as they rolled out of Washington up the Alcan back to Alaska.
We are now back in the Weideman's home state of Alaska serving the Mat-Su, Anchorage and surrounding areas.
Our Lessons
At B2B we pride ourselves in offering the "out of the box" riding lesson. We do not just focus on riding or as many of our students say "the fun stuff." Our students learn everything from leading, grooming, horse health, bandaging, stall cleaning, sheath cleaning, bathing, tack care, and so much more.
We teach a variety of disciplines but stress the fun of horseback riding no matter what your goals are.
Our requirements of our students are: you are willing to try, willing to learn and have fun!
Our Instructor/Coach
I don’t do a lot of posts about myself because I think my students are way more important and their accomplishments are more important.... but I have gotten a few requests lately to do a post about me so they can share so I give here ya go...
Almost 9 years ago I started Back to Basics Horsemanship as a side thing to help pay for my own horses... yeah that idea didn’t last long!! After just a few weeks I had too many students to keep my other job and requests for horses to come in for training. I wasn’t expecting to grow so fast but I welcomed the challenge.
I haven’t heavily shown because I didn’t have the time and for most of these 7 years my daughter battled Epilepsy with her dad and I as her wingmen. During this time I studied videos and books and sent emails to trainers to learn all I could. It’s been a fun learning opportunity. I gave attended some fun clinics including one with Robin Haun, Olympian.
I worked hard to earn 3 national certificates from the American Riding Instructors Association and was named instructor of the month shortly after. In addition to that they published my presentation as an article in their quarterly magazine. In 2022 I made the choice to not renew my ARIA certifications for personal reasons.
In 2019 I was accepted as a trainer for the Retired Race Horse Project Makeover in Kentucky. For several reasons pertaining to the health of my chosen mount (who decided it was a great time to grow ALOT) we didn’t make the journey to Kentucky. It was an honor to be chosen. Before deciding to discontinue our journey I was in discussions with US Racing Magazine to sponsor my RRP Makeover journey.
I have worked with some amazing students some of whom are spotlighted by Mutual Rescue and US Racing Magazine in regards to their journeys back into the saddle after many years out.
My future goals include becoming a US Hunter Jumper Association certified instructor and to achieve my Bronze Medal in Dressage.
I truly believe in a well rounded horse- one kids can ride around the farm, then go jump a hunter course, go on a trail ride and then sort a cow if needed. I believe that all riders goals no matter how small or grand are equal in need for attention and should be celebrated equally when achieved.
I hope to share my knowledge and passion with many here in Alaska. I also look forward to learning something new from each of you.
Instructor Sarah and Annual Reward
2019 Retired Racehorse Project Makeover Hopefuls
5th ride at home off the track
Instructor Sarah and Diamond
Rainbow Meadow Farm, Rochester, WA