Sam Walker: Building Experience, Step by Step

At just 23 years old, Sam Walker has already established himself as one of Canada’s brightest young talents in international show jumping. Known for his polished style, calm presence in the ring, and mature outlook on horse development, Walker is steadily building a career defined by dedication, gratitude, and horsemanship.

Early Life and Foundation

Born and raised in Nobleton, Ontario, Walker grew up immersed in the sport. His parents, Scott and Dee Walker, are professional trainers and the owners of Forest Hill Farm, where Sam learned the fundamentals of riding and horse care from a young age. Surrounded by experienced horsemen and horsewomen, he developed not only skill in the saddle but also a deep respect for the process of training and partnership.

“I’ve been lucky to have some incredible opportunities as a young rider,” Walker says. “Working with Missy Clark and John Brennan at North Run has been one of the most important parts of my development. They’ve taught me how to bring horses along correctly and how to build a career step by step.”

From Equitation Champion to International Competitor

Before focusing fully on the jumper ring, Walker first made his mark in equitation — the foundation of his classical, effective riding style. In 2018, he captured the ASPCA Maclay National Championship at the National Horse Show in Lexington, Kentucky, a title that solidified his reputation as one of North America’s top young riders.

That achievement launched his transition into high-level show jumping, where he has since represented Canada in five-star Nations Cups, won the Derby at Spruce Meadows, and earned consistent results across the Major League Show Jumping circuit.

“It’s nice that at only 23, I’ve been able to get quite a bit of experience,” he says. “I’m proud of that — and it’s all thanks to a great team of horses, supporters, and mentors.”

A New Chapter at the Sunshine Tour

In 2025, Walker marked another milestone by competing for the first time at the Sunshine Tour in Vejer de la Frontera, Spain, one of Europe’s premier show jumping circuits.

“ This is my first time at the Sunshine Tour, and I’m here competing on the Canadian team with my horse Carruso P.J.,” he says. “Spain is beautiful — the facility, the organizers, and everyone involved have been fantastic. The level of competition is amazing, the weather’s perfect, and there’s so much space to ride. I couldn’t be happier to be here.”

The experience offered not only strong competition but also valuable growth opportunities for both rider and horse.

Developing Carruso P.J.

Carruso P.J., Walker’s nine-year-old partner, is a talented and promising horse already stepping up to the international level. Together, the pair have successfully jumped 1.60 m classes and earned notable results in three-star Grand Prix competitions.

“My horse is quite young, but he’s already shown a lot of heart,” says Walker. “He’s won his first three-star Grand Prix and continues to improve. For me, it’s important to remember that the development of the horse — and myself as a young rider — always comes first. A good experience means going into the ring, giving my best, and producing the right kind of round for the horse I’m riding that day.”

Looking Ahead

With his equitation foundation, growing international résumé, and deep respect for the sport, Sam Walker represents the next generation of Canadian show jumping. His focus is now on gaining more experience at the five-star level, continuing to develop horses like Carruso P.J., and earning future team appearances for Canada.

“I’ve been really fortunate to have great people and horses behind me,” he says. “At this point in my career, it’s all about learning from every class, every round, and every horse. I just want to keep improving, enjoy the process, and do right by the horses that make it all possible.”

Valentina Sozzi – Horse Frames

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