Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Sasso Toolin.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I first fell in love with horses in Italy where I am from, at the age of four, and by eight I was already riding. That early passion shaped the course of my life. As I grew, I moved to Germany and the Netherlands, where I had the privilege of training with Olympic-level coaches. It was there that I discovered my deep love for dressage and the discipline, artistry, and connection it requires.
In 2013, I moved to the United States with a clear goal: to pursue my dream of competing at the Olympic Games. A decade later, in 2023, I co-founded ForteBella with my business partner Kelly in Texas. Together, we built an equestrian center that blends European-quality training and horse care with a warm, community-driven spirit. For me, it’s not just about excellence in riding—it’s about creating a place where tradition, passion, and professionalism come together to inspire riders and families alike.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has definitely not been smooth. Moving across countries and cultures came with its own challenges—learning new languages, adapting to different systems, and constantly proving myself in competitive environments. Building ForteBella in Texas was another leap of faith, requiring not only vision but also navigating the complexities of business, sponsorships, and ensuring the highest standards of horse care and training.
Every obstacle, however, shaped me into the rider and entrepreneur I am today. I’ve learned that perseverance, transparency, and community are what carry you through the hardest times. And at the end of the day, nothing worth having comes easy.
As you know, we’re big fans of ForteBella Equestrian. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
ForteBella Equestrian is more than just a training center, it’s a vision brought to life. We specialize in European-quality Equestri training and horse care, blending the precision and tradition I experienced in Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands with the warmth and community spirit of Texas. Our focus is on excellence, but also on inclusivity: we welcome riders of all levels and create an environment where both horses and humans can thrive.
What sets us apart is the combination of world-class standards with heartfelt hospitality. Every detail, from the way we care for the horses to the way we design events and experiences, reflects our belief that equestrian life should be both professional and deeply personal. We’re known for our commitment to safety, our attention to detail, and the emotional connection we foster between riders, horses, and families.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the culture we’ve built. ForteBella isn’t just a place to train, it’s a community where milestones are celebrated, traditions are honored, and riders feel supported in their journey. Whether someone comes to us for elite dressage training, horse care, or to be part of our events and retreats, they’ll find a brand rooted in passion and excellence.
At ForteBella, we want readers to know that our offerings go beyond riding lessons, we provide transformative experiences. From specialized training programs to curated events and retreats, everything we do is designed to elevate equestrian life while creating unforgettable experiences.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
One of my favorite childhood memories is the balance between discipline and adventure. During the week, we were working hard, training, preparing for competitions, and dedicating ourselves to becoming better riders. But sometimes, we would take our horses out for hours with friends, just to explore and play. We’d ride to the beach, gallop across hills lined with vines, or race through fields of freshly cut wheat. Our horses were our best friends, carrying us into unforgettable adventures that gave us a sense of freedom and joy I’ll never forget.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ForteBellaEquestrian.com
- Instagram: sara_sasso_toolin
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BFYypgqZv/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: TikTok sara.sasso.toolin
