Jose Mendez
Classical Dressage Master
Born and raised in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, José Mendez embarked on his equestrian journey at just 12 years old at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. There, he honed his expertise in classical horsemanship, including the celebrated “airs above ground” performed with Andalusian stallions.
From Spain to Australia and Beyond
At age 19, José joined his brother in Australia and quickly rooted himself within the equestrian community, eventually settling there. He’s since become an international name in classical dressage, teaching and performing in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Mexico, the United States, and England.
Shortly after arriving in Australia José joined El Caballo Blanco, a celebrated Spanish dancing horse performance company in Perth and later in Sydney.
The enterprise rapidly expanded and needed skilled trainers, José stepped in to help manage and present the intricate classical horsemanship routines. While El Caballo Blanco wasn’t solely his creation, it served as a pivotal launching pad. Not only did it establish José within the Australian equestrian scene, but it also helped him meet Fay, his future wife and solidify his love for Australia and its equestrian community
In 1986, José was selected to represent Australia aboard the Andalusia stallion Cadiz at the World Equestrian Games in Toronto—a prestigious moment in his competitive career.
During the early 1990s, he competed internationally for Australia on several occasions, again riding his distinguished Andalusian mount. He later campaigned the Hanoverian stallion Leonardo 68 at Grand Prix.
Though competitive appearances have become less frequent in recent years - largely due to his commitments at his Tallong training centre and extensive teaching and clinics - his competitive legacy remains marked by Grand Prix-level achievements and strong classical performance results.
On the performance front, José has also wowed audiences with theatrical and equestrian displays. Notably:
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Performed in-clinics and exhibitions at Equitana in 1999 and 2001.
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Starred in a Spanish opera-themed show “Carmen” with his beloved stallion Fortuno, performing across Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.
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Gave numerous demos alongside his Andalusian stallions like Nevado, all often weaving between performance costumes and competition attire with a quick change, showcasing both his versatility and flair.
José is a fully qualified Equestrian Australia Level 2 Dressage Coach and Coach Educator. He is highly respected for his in-hand training techniques, especially teaching movements like piaffe, passage, Spanish walk, and long-reining through gentle groundwork.
He emphasises humane, mindful training using a cavesson and saddle, steering clear of harsh gadgets or side reins. His ground methods aim to build confident, sound, and willing partners.
The ASK Philosophy: Appreciation · Sincerity · Kindness
Central to José’s methodology is his foundational principle: ASK: Appreciation, Sincerity, Kindness.
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Appreciation for the horse’s willingness to carry the rider and be a teacher.
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Sincerity in requests, leadership, and care, genuine praise and appropriate discipline.
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Kindness in all interactions, ensuring emotional and physical well-being.
He often draws beautiful analogies to illustrate his philosophy, like waiting for a green apple to ripen instead of discarding it for not being perfect, emphasising patience and nurturing over force.
Mendez Equestrian Centre – His Legacy in New South Wales
Together with his wife Fay, José founded the Mendez Equestrian Centre in Tallong, New South Wales. The centre is a classical dressage haven offering individualised coaching, clinics, and training for riders and horses of all levels—from beginners to Grand Prix aspirants.
It receives glowing reviews, with visitors praising its excellent arena facilities and a supportive, welcoming atmosphere.
José also regularly present clinics and master classes at Winterwood Sport Horses delighting riders with his humour, passion, and unwavering regard for horse welfare.
