Complete Equestrian

At Complete Equestrian, we strive to meet the needs of our clients. From beginning to advanced equestrian skills, and even special needs, there is always a place for you at Complete Equestrian. We are a 501c3, non-profit organization dedicated to serving our community by offering need-based scholarships to all of our programs. Our focus is on the horse and utilizing the skills and knowledge necessary to communicate with these magnificent creatures. From any equine emphasis, Complete Equestrian has something to offer.

Our Unique Approach

Our unique approach to riding is what sets us apart. We emphasize balance and confidence in our seat, providing our clients with a secure and enjoyable riding experience. Whether you are a seasoned rider or just starting out, our qualified instructors will guide you through the process of developing your riding skills. We cater to riders of all levels and disciplines, including English, Western, and Vaulting.

Equine Performances

Complete Equestrian also offers equine performances, showcasing the beauty and strength of our horses. Our performances are designed to entertain and educate, providing a unique experience for all who attend. Whether you are looking for a special event or just want to enjoy the majesty of horses, our performances are sure to impress.

Special Needs and Scholarships

At Complete Equestrian, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the joy of riding. That's why we offer adaptive riding programs for those with special needs. Our instructors are trained to work with riders of all abilities, providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone. We also offer scholarship programs for at-risk youth, ensuring that financial constraints do not limit access to our programs.

Facilities and Services

Complete Equestrian is a multi-use facility located in beautiful Fort Collins, Colorado. Our facilities include indoor and outdoor arenas, as well as a variety of trails for hacking and training. We offer a range of services, including horse training, horse leasing, and equine performances. We also provide birthday parties and unicorn photo shoots, making us the perfect destination for any horse enthusiast.

Meet Our Manager and Head Coach

Manager and Head Coach, Nicole Rau, was born in Denver, Colorado. Growing up in the inner city of Denver, she was blessed to join the Westernaires, a precision mounted drill team, in 1991. It was here that she discovered her passion in life. It was horses that set her apart from her peers and kept her away from negative influences. Horses became more than an activity to her, they became a form of therapy and education. Nicole began sharing her love of horses with others as a riding instructor in 1997. She also began professionally training client horses in 1996. After moving to Fort Collins in 2001, she decided to pursue her degrees in Equine Science and Psychology at Colorado State University in an effort to bring the same joy to at-risk children that she had.

Nicole is considered a truly gifted and passionate horsewoman. She is experienced in precision mounted drill, trick riding, and jumping at liberty where she excelled to the highest possible divisions with the Westernaires of Golden, Colorado. She has trained extensively in reining and stadium jumping. She was a very active member of the College of Agriculture, sharing great experiences with Colorado State University. From founding the Colorado State University Vaulting Team in 2004 to holding several officer positions in the Collegiate Horseman's Association, the Mountain Riders Horse Club, the CSU Vaulting Team, the CSU Equine Council and the CSU Agriculture Council in addition to competition with the CSU Judging Team and Equestrian Team; Nicole has participated in a full range of equine activities making her a versatile member of the equine industry.

In addition to CSU involvements, Nicole has also spread out her talents to participate with several therapeutic riding organizations along the front range in an effort to promote the benefits of riding and vaulting in physical, mental and cognitive abilities. She founded the 501c3 non-profit organization in 2009. This has allowed hundreds of students the opportunity to participate in equine activities that may not have had the financial resources to do so. She continues to use horses as a tool for therapy for many of her clients. In 2022, the Board of Directors, voted to expand this non-profit organization to offer therapeutic riding; changing the name to Complete Equestrian, non-profit.

Nicole is heavily involved in serving the American Vaulting Association, where she has served as the Region IV Secretary from 2010-2017. She has been the Region IV Regional Supervisor since 2017-2020 on the AVA Board of Directors. She also sits on the AVA Safety Committee since 2010. With a passion and talent for both people and horses, Nicole is dedicated to providing the best possible experience for all who visit Complete Equestrian.