WATCH: Sam Walker Shows the World How to Be a Maclay Champion

Every year we get a glimpse of what the future of equestrian sport has in store when over a hundred young riders gather for the ASPCA Maclay Finals. These riders are the best of the best from all across the nation and they all have the same dream: to have their name immortalized next to past winners and legends such as George Morris and Frank Chapot. This year that dream come true was awarded to a very deserving young working student named Sam Walker.

Watch Sam’s initial round that launched him towards the head of the standings earlier yesterday morning below. The thing to note with this round is how he enters the ring with a purpose and expertly executes his plan. The whole round looked flowing and effortless. Heck, it made ME feel like I could go in there and rock that course (side note: I could not) because he made it look so simple.

After the flat, the top riders came back for the test where Sam continued to shine. He and Waldo just seem to float across the course. He plays a few of the tests smart to ensure that he and his mount execute each effort with ease and it plays off well with the judges. His round was hiccup free and stunning.

Go Jumping!