Hunter • Jumper • Equitation • Sales

A family owned and operated business developing horses and riders on the Ontario A and Trillium circuits for over 30 years.

About Country Mile

At Country Mile Stables we believe in developing horse people – not just riders. Success is earned by hard work and smart choices. Partnerships are key to being a successful horse person, at any level, and being humble and open-minded are values that we focus on. We are a team of dedicated horse folks, and while competitive, we celebrate each other’s achievements along the journey.

Our 13-stall show barn is situated at Stillwater Farm, notably one of Ontario’s most spectacular properties, offering every bit of luxury and serenity a horse or rider could ever require. The property provides endless hacking, first-class working rings (indoor arena 70 x 180, outdoor ring 100 x 200) and superb all-season paddocks and pastures.

Providing 24/7 on-property care for our equine partners lets you and us rest well at night.

Limited space is also available in our private retirement/lay-up barn. This nine stall (12x12) barn comes complete with wash stall, lockers and access to all facilities. It’s a great way to slow down a horse’s career. Large pastures available year round.

Our Team

Samantha Murray

Owner Operator

Samantha Murray Nosworthy was practically born atop a horse, riding at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair for the first time at age five. Raised by one of Canada’s greatest horsewomen, she gained the tools to train and care for horse and client at a very high level.

In her youth, Samantha had the privilege of being coached by some of Canada’s most successful trainers and riders. Her professional riding career became less of a focus after her two children came along, when she turned her talents and energy to training. Riding and training has been a lifelong passion, one that Samantha takes great pride in passing on to others.

The level of commitment that Samantha brings to each horse and rider is unparalleled. Developing a program to suit one’s goals, budget and ability is a unique gift. A personalized program, matching the right person to the right equine partner, is paramount.

As a top trainer in the Trillium circuit for over 10 years, Samantha has also provided many of her students the opportunity to compete on the Ontario A circuit. Taking over the reins of the family business promises great things for the local equestrian community.

“Our daughter has been coached by Sam for more than 12 years. Sam’s level of horse care and her teaching abilities are exceptional.”

Paul and Nancy Birkhoff

Lauren Patava

Assistant Trainer and Rider

From a young age Lauren has been recognized as a dedicated and talented professional, earning success as a junior in hunter, equitation and jumper rings across North America. Many trips to the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair include attaining at age 14 National Reserve Champion in the CET and Equine Canada Medal Finals. Training with Canadian Erynn Ballard and renowned Missy Clark of North Run Farm, Lauren made numerous trips to both the National Maclay Medal Finals and the USEF Hunt Seat Medal Finals.

In addition to continued success in the professional hunter divisions, hunter derbies and equitation rings, Lauren has enjoyed success in top jumper divisions. This includes top finishes in High Jr/Am Jumper divisions and the Jump Canada Talent Squad. A successful trip to the North American Young Rider’s Championship earned Lauren a bronze medal in 2006. Transitioning out of the junior ranks and becoming a professional in 2009, Lauren made the step up to the Grand Prix show jumping divisions. Lauren has earned top placings in CSI** and CSI*** Grands Prix, gaining knowledge and experience training with Canadian show jumping legend Ian Millar.

Lauren pursued her passion for training and coaching and has coached riders of all levels and abilities, from small ponies to High Jr/Am jumpers, as well as developing young horses for all rings.

“We would highly recommend Lauren Patava as a rider and an instructor. Over the years we have watched her grow as an equestrian and have seen her develop some fine young horses into Grand Prix mounts. Lauren is also a very good coach – patient and thorough with great attention to detail.”

Barbara Mitchell & John Taylor
CornerStone

Penny Murray

Founder and Farm Manager

Penny arrived from England in the 1960s and worked alongside the Canadian Equestrian Team for over 15 years. Travelling worldwide and being a part of Olympic gold medal and many other international wins have given her a wealth of practical knowledge about horses. Penny founded Country Mile Stables in 1988, which quickly became one of the leading training facilities in southern Ontario and gave many successful young riders their start.

Penny is a mother of two and grandmother of four. She enjoys time with her family and caring for horses. The training and care provided by this extraordinary horsewoman is second to none.

“Sam is a great coach and mentor to her students, happy to pass the CountryMile legacy to her.”

Stillwater Farm