Samantha Takacs '19: Equestrian Star at Dartmouth

Alumni Samantha Takacs '19 has left an indelible mark on the equestrian community through her exceptional achievements and unwavering dedication. Hailing from Lebanon, New Jersey, Takacs's journey in equestrian sports is a testament to her passion and commitment.​

She went on to Dartmouth College, where in her first year, Takacs quickly distinguished herself by being named a Second Team Ariat All-American by the National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA). Takacs is Dartmouth’s first-ever NCEA All-American. During the regular season, she tied for the most points on the Big Green team and secured three Most Outstanding Performance honors. Her accolades included MOP over fences in a victory against Sweet Briar and MOP on the flat against both Sacred Heart and UT Martin. Dartmouth's head coach, Tenley Walsh, praised Takacs, stating, "Samantha has had such a positive impact on this team both, in and out of the ring." ​

Takacs's sophomore year saw her continue to excel. She was named Most Outstanding Player in both the flat and over fences during Dartmouth's 8-2 win over No. 5 Sewanee. Notably, she posted impressive 90-point rounds, winning her matchups 94-90 and 90-35, contributing significantly to the team's sweep in the fences portion. ​Before her collegiate success, Takacs made a name for herself in the equestrian world. At just 14 years old, she rode Brighton to the Grand Pony Hunter Championship title at the 61st annual Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) in 2019. This victory earned her The Miles River Moonglow Perpetual Trophy and the Best Child Rider on a Pony title, highlighting her early prowess in the sport. ​

Takacs's consistent excellence continued throughout her time at Dartmouth. In March 2025, she was among four Dartmouth equestrian athletes to receive All-Conference awards, underscoring her sustained high performance and dedication to the sport. Samantha Takacs was named a First Team All-American equestrian at Dartmouth this season (2025), a prestigious recognition that solidifies her place among the nation’s elite collegiate riders.

Samantha's journey from a young equestrian enthusiast to a decorated collegiate athlete serves as an inspiration to aspiring riders. Her achievements reflect not only her individual talent but also the strength and competitiveness of Dartmouth's equestrian program.

Learn more below:

Washington International Horse Show

https://dartmouthsports.com/news/2024/4/9/equestrian-takacs-named-ncea-second-team-all-american-on-the-flat.aspx?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://dartmouthsports.com/news/2024/10/7/athletics-the-richards-group-athletes-of-the-week-samantha-takacs-and-jackson-proctor.aspx?utm_source=chatgpt.com

*Photo credits to Dartmouth College Athletics*