Owner, Guide & Endurance Rider

Mary Jane Gagnier, a native Canadian, has lived in Oaxaca since 1987, She co-founded and managed La Mano Magica gallery for 15 years before opening Casa Sagrada Guesthouse and developing its riding program.

Mary Jane is the author of Oaxaca Celebration: Family, Food & Fiestas in Teotitlan, MNMP, 2005 - her book on the culture and traditions of Teotitlan and she brings her deep knowledge and passion of the people and their land to her guided horseback riding.

This passionate rider leads Casa Sagrada's equestrian program. Mary Jane guides guests on the fascinating trails of the southeastern arm of the valley of Oaxaca, into the foothills of the backcountry and has recently developed a village to village ride in the high Sierra Juarez. “Even after years of exploring this land, it continues to intrigue me.” says this rider who trains her horses - and herself - for endurance riding competitions on the endless trails of this unique ecosystem.

Mary Jane regularly competes in Mexican endurance competitions and in 2008 helped found the Comité Mexicano de Endurance Ecuestre and is an active member of its board. She has studied endurance riding with John Crandell, Cristoph Stork and Dian Woodward.

Mary Jane is also a certified yoga instructor. Her practice of 15 years is most influenced by the dynamic form taught by Zhander Remete. At Casa Sagrada she teaches a yoga program focused on the holistic needs of riders and horses.