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(Image Credit: Kim Gaurdry/photo supplied.)
By Curtis Galbraith
Show Jumping

Teenage rider from the Peace competing at international equestrian competition

Jul 29, 2026 | 6:02 AM

A 16-year-old farm kid from Sexsmith is part of Team Canada at an international equestrian competition this week.

George Balderston and his horse Galahad are competing in show jumping at the International Equestrian Federation’s North American Youth Championships taking place in Traverse City, Michigan.  

Balderston got into equestrian riding because of his mom. 

“My mom does dressage actually. I grew up riding a little bit with her.” 

“I found that show jumping was a little bit more exciting for me, but it was always nice to be able to do something with my mom.” 

He has been riding at the Spruce Meadows equestrian facility near Calgary. 

“It was cool, yeah. I was showing there, and it was good. I really liked it. It was a great show, super-competitive and very fun.” 

Balderston says there are both individual and team competitions. Several North American countries have sent teams. He will be in the Pre-Junior category for 14- to 16-year-olds. 

His competition will start on Thursday. 

Balderston competed at the same event last year. He is hoping to be competitive this year and wants to “try and win a medal.” 

He adds it is an honour to represent his country. 

“It’s always been kind of a dream of mine to ride for Canada.” 

“It’s a great opportunity with this championship for me to be able to represent my country and compete at a high level.” 

We asked Balderston to tell us about Galahad. 

“He is a French warmblood, Selle Francais. He’d be a liver chestnut, like a dark red colour.” 

“He’s a gelding. He’s super-nice to be around. He’s super-friendly. He’s really patient, and he loves his job. He loves jumping. 

Balderston has had Galahad for about two-and-a-half years. 


(Image Credit: Kim Gaudry/photo suppled.)

Balderston adds it takes a lot of organizing to get a horse into the U.S.  

Galahad has his own passport from the equestrian federation. 

He says horses also need health certifications from a veterinarian.

by Curtis Galbraith