Refined horsemanship. Thoughtful coaching. Built for riders who expect more.
About
Icarus equestrian
About
Icarus equestrian
THOUGHTFUL HORSEMANSHIP. REFINED COACHING. Built for riders who expect more.
Kayla Sails
COACH, TRAINER, & LIFE LONG EQUESTRIAN
Icarus Equestrian is built on over 15 years of experience, competition history at Equestrian Canada gold rated events, and formal coaching certification through Equestrian Canada. With a foundation in both rider development and young horse training, the focus is on creating confident, capable partnerships through structured, intentional work.
My approach has been shaped by time spent training and coaching in Europe - most notably at a working equitation facility in southern Portugal, where I worked with Lusitanos in a program rooted in classical flatwork. While not a traditional jumping barn, the experience deepened my understanding of balance, feel, and precision - skills that translate directly into hunter and equitation development.
I had my first official riding lesson at the age of two, and by eleven, I was gifted my first horse - Kool Breeze, know around the barn as Bree - who became both my greatest teacher and lifelong friend. She carried me through my early years of showing, and sparked my long-standing passion for the sport. All I have learned about horsemanship, patience, integrity, kindness, intention, humility, the act of true listening, resilience and perseverance I owe to her.
Today, I continue to pursue higher levels of coaching certification through EC and the NCCP, with the goal of supporting riders and horses who are ready to train with more focus, ride with more purpose, and take the next step in their riding journey.
Coaching is something I’m truly passionate about - dare I say, I enjoy it even more than riding. Whether it’s a small smile after a good ride or witnessing a major breakthrough, each of those moments fills my heart with joy. Throughout my years in the sport, I’ve been fortunate to work with coaches who built me up, and others who, unfortunately, did the opposite. Because of that, I understand what it feels like to walk away from a lesson feeling defeated - and, more importantly, what it feels like to leave one feeling confident, capable, and understood.
I’ve been there. I’ve walked in the shoes of my students. I know the power of a coach who meets you where you’re at - who reminds you it’s okay not to be perfect, who celebrates your courage, and who believes in your potential even on the hard days. That’s what I strive to offer every time I step into the ring. To me, it’s both a blessing and an honour to coach, and it’s a responsibility I never take lightly.
BEHIND THE NAME
THE MEANING OF ICARUS EQUESTRIAn
The name "Icarus Equestrian" was inspired by a horse I rode while working in Europe - a talented gelding named Ícaro. This name is the Portuguese spelling for the name of the mythical figure: Icarus. I learned a great deal just by riding him, but he also reminded me why I fell in love with this sport in the first place. Our time together reignited something in me - a sense of purpose, curiosity, and drive that I had lost for a while. When I returned home to Canada, I knew I wanted to build something that carried that same feeling forward.
Icarus, in mythology, is often remembered for flying too close to the sun - but his story isn’t one of failure; it’s one of courage. It’s about daring to rise higher, even when there’s risk involved. For me, the name represents ambition tempered by awareness - the idea that mastery isn’t about perfection, but about learning to balance confidence and humility, boldness and control.
That balance is at the heart of how I approach both horses and riders. The name Icarus Equestrian serves as a reminder that growth requires both flight and grounding, and that every step, no matter how small, is part of becoming the rider you’re meant to be.
BEHIND THE NAME
THE MEANING OF ICARUS EQUESTRIAn
The name "Icarus Equestrian" was inspired by a horse I rode while working in Europe - a talented, complex gelding named Ícaro. This name is the Portuguese spelling for the name of the mythical figure Icarus. I learned a great deal just by riding him, but he also reminded me why I fell in love with this sport in the first place. Our time together reignited something in me — a sense of purpose, curiosity, and drive that I had lost for a while. When I returned home to Canada, I knew I wanted to build something that carried that same feeling forward.
Icarus, in mythology, is often remembered for flying too close to the sun - but his story isn’t one of failure; it’s one of courage. It’s about daring to rise higher, even when there’s risk involved. For me, the name represents ambition tempered by awareness — the idea that mastery isn’t about perfection, but about learning to balance confidence and humility, boldness and control.
That balance is at the heart of how I approach both horses and riders. Icarus Equestrian is more than a program name — it’s a reminder that growth requires both flight and grounding, and that every step, no matter how small, is part of becoming the rider you’re meant to be.
Kayla Sails
COACH, TRAINER, & LIFE LONG EQUESTRIAN
Icarus Equestrian is built on over 15 years of experience, competition history at Equestrian Canada gold rated events, and formal coaching training & registration through Equestrian Canada and N.C.C.P. With a foundation in both rider development and young horse training, the focus is on creating confident, capable partnerships through structured, intentional work. My approach has been shaped by time spent riding and learning in Europe - most notably at a working equitation facility in southern Portugal, where I worked with Lusitanos in a program rooted in classical flatwork. While not a traditional jumping barn, the experience deepened my understanding of balance, feel, and precision - skills that translate directly into hunter and equitation development. I had my first riding lesson at the age of two, and by eleven, I was gifted my first horse - Bree - who became both my greatest teacher and lifelong friend. She carried me through my early years of showing and sparked my long-standing passion for the sport. Throughout my teens, I competed in hunter/jumper divisions and gained hands-on experience riding and developing green horses, both on the flat and over fences. Today, I continue to pursue higher levels of coaching certification through EC and the NCCP, with the goal of supporting riders and horses. both those who are new to the sport, and those who are ready to train with more focus, ride with more purpose, and take the next step in their riding journey.
EQUESTRIAN CANADA LICENSED COMPETITION COACH
-
IN PROGRESS
The Licensed Coach status builds on the Registered Coach requirements and involves formal evaluation of teaching ability, technical skill, and coaching practices. This designation represents a higher level of accountability and recognition within the national coaching framework.
EQUESTRIAN
CANADA REGISTERED COACH
-
COMPLETE
This designation confirms that all foundational coaching requirements have been met, including a criminal record check, Safe Sport training, first aid certification, and proof of insurance. It reflects an active commitment to rider safety, ethical instruction, and the responsible delivery of coaching services in Canada..
NATIONAL COACHING CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
-
IN PROGRESS
The National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP), developed by the Coaching Association of Canada, is the standard for coach education across all Canadian sports. It includes training in areas such as lesson planning, safe and inclusive sport, equestrian-specific athlete development, and ethical decision-making
Qualifications
Certification reflects a commitment to excellence, safety, and professional integrity. The following designations represent formal training and recognition through Equestrian Canada and the n.c.c.p.
Qualifications
Certification reflects a commitment to excellence, safety, and professional integrity. The following designations represent formal training and recognition through Equestrian Canada, the n.c.c.p. and other PROFESSIONAL education organizations.
COURSE | ISSUING BODY | COMPLETION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
QUALIFED BITTING ANALYST (QBA) | NEUE SCHULE ACADEMY | 2025 | Provides in-depth knowledge of bit design, function, and horse anatomy to assess and recommend suitable bit solutions for individual horses. |
QUALIFIED BIT AND BRIDLE FITTER (QBF) | NEUE SCHULE ACADEMY | IN PROGRESS | Trains professionals to evaluate and fit both bits and bridles with a focus on comfort, biomechanics, and enhancing performance. |
ANALYZING BEGINNER EQUESTRIAN PERFORMANCE | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Teaches coaches how to assess and support early-stage riders using structured evaluation tools |
LONG-TERM EQUESTRIAN DEVELOPMENT | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Explores athlete development across all stages, from entry-level to high performance, using an equestrian-specific LTAD model. |
PLAN AN EQUESTRIAN PRACTICE | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | IN PROGRESS | Teaches coaches how to structure, organize, and deliver effective training sessions tailored to rider and horse development |
DESIGN AN EQUESTRIAN SPORT PROGRAM | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | IN PROGRESS | Focuses on building a season-long plan that supports technical, physical, and psychological growth in riders. |
MANAGE AN EQUESTRIAN SPORT PROGRAM | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | IN PROGRESS | Covers the administrative and leadership responsibilities of managing a comprehensive equestrian coaching program. |
ANALYZING COMPETITIVE EQUESTRIAN PERFORMANCE | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | IN PROGRESS | Equips coaches with strategies for reviewing performance data and competition outcomes to support progression. |
TEACHING & LEARNING | NCCP | 2025 | Focuses on effective instructional methods and communication techniques for coaches. |
BASIC MENTAL SKILLS | NCCP | 2025 | Introduces tools for developing focus, confidence, and motivation in athletes. |
SPORT NUTRITION | NCCP | 2025 | Covers the fundamentals of nutrition and hydration to support athletic performance. |
MAKING ETHICAL DECISIONS | NCCP | 2025 | Builds decision-making skills to handle ethical situations in sport with confidence. |
UNDERSTANDING THE RULE OF TWO | NCCP | 2025 | Promotes safe sport environments by teaching the importance of accountability and supervision. |
EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN | NCCP | 2025 | Guides coaches in creating and implementing a clear plan in case of emergencies during training or competition. |
FOSTERING HEALTHY EQUESTRIAN ENVIRONMENTS | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Introduces best practices for creating respectful, inclusive, and safe spaces in equestrian sport. |
CONCUSSION AWARENESS | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Provides essential knowledge to recognize, respond to, and manage concussions in athletes. |
UNDERSTANDING EQUINE MEDICATION CONTROL | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Covers medication rules, testing protocols, and responsible equine health practices in competition. |
LUNGING FOUNDATIONS | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Teaches safe, effective lungeing techniques to support horse development and training. |
EQUINE CARE PROGRAM | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Outlines fundamental horse care facility practices, such as heard health, and stable management. |
TRAUMA INFORMED EQUESTRIAN COACHING | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Explores coaching strategies that acknowledge and respect the impact of trauma on riders. |
ENGLISH RIDER LEVEL 8 | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Represents the highest level in the Learn to Ride program, demonstrating advanced proficiency in flatwork, jumping, theory, and horsemanship. |
REGISTERED COACH | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Meets Equestrian Canada’s eligibility standards for coaching, including safety screening and insurance. |
LICENSED COMPETITION COACH | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | IN PROGRESS | This certification recognizes coaches qualified to prepare and support riders at sanctioned competitions, with proven expertise in teaching, rider development, and equine welfare. |
COURSE | ISSUING BODY | COMPLETION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
QUALIFED BITTING ANALYST (QBA) | NEUE SCHULE ACADEMY | 2025 | Provides in-depth knowledge of bit design, function, and horse anatomy to assess and recommend suitable bit solutions for individual horses. |
QUALIFIED BIT AND BRIDLE FITTER (QBF) | NEUE SCHULE ACADEMY | IN PROGRESS | Trains professionals to evaluate and fit both bits and bridles with a focus on comfort, biomechanics, and enhancing performance. |
ANALYZING BEGINNER EQUESTRIAN PERFORMANCE | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Teaches coaches how to assess and support early-stage riders using structured evaluation tools |
LONG-TERM EQUESTRIAN DEVELOPMENT | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Explores athlete development across all stages, from entry-level to high performance, using an equestrian-specific LTAD model. |
PLAN AN EQUESTRIAN PRACTICE | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | IN PROGRESS | Teaches coaches how to structure, organize, and deliver effective training sessions tailored to rider and horse development |
DESIGN AN EQUESTRIAN SPORT PROGRAM | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | IN PROGRESS | Focuses on building a season-long plan that supports technical, physical, and psychological growth in riders. |
MANAGE AN EQUESTRIAN SPORT PROGRAM | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | IN PROGRESS | Covers the administrative and leadership responsibilities of managing a comprehensive equestrian coaching program. |
ANALYZING COMPETITIVE EQUESTRIAN PERFORMANCE | NCCP / EQUESTRIAN CANADA | IN PROGRESS | Equips coaches with strategies for reviewing performance data and competition outcomes to support progression. |
TEACHING & LEARNING | NCCP | 2025 | Focuses on effective instructional methods and communication techniques for coaches. |
BASIC MENTAL SKILLS | NCCP | 2025 | Introduces tools for developing focus, confidence, and motivation in athletes. |
SPORT NUTRITION | NCCP | 2025 | Covers the fundamentals of nutrition and hydration to support athletic performance. |
MAKING ETHICAL DECISIONS | NCCP | 2025 | Builds decision-making skills to handle ethical situations in sport with confidence. |
UNDERSTANDING THE RULE OF TWO | NCCP | 2025 | Promotes safe sport environments by teaching the importance of accountability and supervision. |
EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN | NCCP | 2025 | Guides coaches in creating and implementing a clear plan in case of emergencies during training or competition. |
FOSTERING HEALTHY EQUESTRIAN ENVIRONMENTS | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Introduces best practices for creating respectful, inclusive, and safe spaces in equestrian sport. |
CONCUSSION AWARENESS | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Provides essential knowledge to recognize, respond to, and manage concussions in athletes. |
UNDERSTANDING EQUINE MEDICATION CONTROL | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Covers medication rules, testing protocols, and responsible equine health practices in competition. |
LUNGING FOUNDATIONS | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Teaches safe, effective lungeing techniques to support horse development and training. |
EQUINE CARE PROGRAM | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Outlines fundamental horse care facility practices, such as heard health, and stable management. |
TRAUMA INFORMED EQUESTRIAN COACHING | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Explores coaching strategies that acknowledge and respect the impact of trauma on riders. |
ENGLISH RIDER LEVEL 8 | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Represents the highest level in the Learn to Ride program, demonstrating advanced proficiency in flatwork, jumping, theory, and horsemanship. |
REGISTERED COACH | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | 2025 | Meets Equestrian Canada’s eligibility standards for coaching, including safety screening and insurance. |
LICENSED COMPETITION COACH | EQUESTRIAN CANADA | IN PROGRESS | This certification recognizes coaches qualified to prepare and support riders at sanctioned competitions, with proven expertise in teaching, rider development, and equine welfare. |
EQUESTRIAN CANADA
REGISTERED COACH
-
COMPLETE
This designation confirms that all foundational coaching requirements have been met, including a criminal record check, Safe Sport training, first aid certification, and proof of insurance. It reflects an active commitment to rider safety, ethical instruction, and the responsible delivery of coaching services in Canada.
EQUESTRIAN CANADA
COMPETITION COACH
-
IN PROGRESS
The Licensed Coach status builds on the Registered Coach requirements and involves formal evaluation of teaching ability, technical skill, and coaching practices. This designation represents a higher level of accountability and recognition within the national coaching framework.