About Steffen Ajem

Steffen Ajem, a native German, is currently based in Napa, CA. Before coming to the U.S. in 2005, he studied with Prinz Auersperg, trainer of the Spanish Riding School, Anna Merveldt, member of the Irish Olympic Team, and Ulla Salzgeber, member of the German Olympic Team. Steffen enhances his skills and knowledge of dressage through trips to Germany where he continues to ride with Holga Finken, one of Germany’s most respectable trainers. 

The correctness of Steffen’s training is shown through his own successes. As a member of the Riding Association of South Germany, he placed first in the 1996 Bavarian Championships in Prix St. George, and second in the 1999 South Bavarian Championship at Grand Prix Level. From 2001 through 2003 Steffen qualified for one of the most prestigious shows in dressage: the German Championship for young horses, known as the Bundeschampionat. Each of the three years, Steffen successfully showed his horses through the final round. Currently, he is bringing along two young prospects that he hopes to compete once they mature. 

Steffen is a gifted instructor. He has built a reputation – through lessons, showing, training, and clinics – as a leading trainer in the US, teaching the right discipline on how to bring horses and students to their highest potential. With an emphasis on correct position and technique, Steffen strives to help every student build solid riding fundamentals and develop the aids to help the horse move correctly. The effectiveness of his method is apparent in the accomplishments and progression of his students.

Steffen is available for lessons and clinics. For more information, contact us.