Thiago (pronounced Chee-Ah-Go) Sobral is ranch-raised and rode hunter jumpers from a tender age in his native Brazil. A passion to study western riding, and a desire to learn English, brought the personable young man to the United States where he served a lengthy apprenticeship with legendary California reins man and many-time World Champion Benny Guitron. "I learned almost everything I know from Benny: how to ride good horses and help those who aren't so gifted, how to keep them happy and healthy, when to stop training, and how to get my horses showing their best. I also realized I learned some 'special' English from Benny!" Thiago recalls with a laugh.

After training for several private ranches, Thiago opened his own business in 2003. "It was a big step, but I've always had the support of great horsemen to help me and have been very generous to me with their time and their guidance. I've also had great customers who have given me the opportunity to show wonderful horses," he explains.

Thiago has come along way in a short amount of time, notching up major wins in reining and working cow horse events in Arizona and beyond with both futurity and aged horses. His barn is known as a fun place to ride for non-pros as well. Unlike some trainers, Thiago enjoys teaching: "Every horse, and every rider, learns differently. It is up to me to unlock their potential by communication - a challenge I enjoy."

When asked what's most important to him, Thiago says, "My reputation. I'll send a horse home if it's not going to meet the owner's expectations, or suggest we find something better that fits their goals. Honesty is the best policy - and that extends to dealing with the trust horses give me as well as their owners," states the horseman.