For more than fifty years, John Whitaker has been among the absolute elite of international show jumping. The British rider, born on August 5, 1955, is an icon in his field. Known for his long-standing partnership with the legendary horse Milton, Whitaker has built an impressive record of achievements and remains active in the sport to this day.
Whitaker grew up in a family where horses always played a central role. His younger brother Michael also became a successful show jumper, and his three children Robert, Joanne, and Louise, compete at a high level as well. Running an equestrian business is a shared family endeavor for the Whitakers. “It really is a family business,” says Whitaker. “We all work together, and horses are part of our daily lives.”
Daily routine and work on the yard
Despite his long career, Whitaker has no intention of slowing down. Every morning, he rides five horses, after which he focuses on the various tasks involved in running the business. In addition to training horses and giving a limited number of lessons, breeding also plays a major role.
The property is home to about sixty horses, including young ones from his own breeding lines. Each year, Whitaker breeds around ten foals, often using his own stallions. He sees this dedication to breeding as an extension of his sporting career: “It’s wonderful to guide horses from birth and watch them grow into top performers.”
International successes
Whitaker’s career boasts highlights on nearly every major stage in show jumping. In 1980, during the alternative Olympic Games, he won silver both individually and with the British team. Nine years later, in 1989, he claimed the European Championships, taking both team and individual gold. Competing as part of a team, such as in Nations Cups, holds special value for him. “There’s extra pressure because you’re not just riding for yourself, but also for your team and your country. That makes it exciting and an honor.”
His list of victories spans decades, with successes at prestigious events in Aachen, Hickstead, Windsor, and Spruce Meadows, among others. Outdoor competitions are his preference: “Outdoor shows have something extra. The atmosphere, the space, the connection with the audience... It just suits me.”
Whitaker is known for his calm, composed style and his ability to bring out the best in a wide variety of horses. He emphasizes that consistency and patience are essential: “Horses aren’t machines. You have to understand what they need, both physically and mentally.”
The next generation
Although he has worked with countless top horses over the years, Milton remains his undisputed favorite. With this grey, he achieved historic victories and earned worldwide respect. Of the current generation, he admires King Edward and Beauville Z, ridden by Maikel van der Vleuten. Speaking of Beauville Z, he says: “A horse with exceptional power, consistent performances, and a tremendous will to fight.”
Although he now competes less frequently at five-star events, Whitaker remains active on the international calendar. His next major appearance is scheduled for Windsor. In 2024, he also competed in the Netherlands at events in Peelbergen.
He does not name a concrete date for his retirement. “As long as I’m healthy and have good horses, I’ll keep riding,” says Whitaker. “It’s not just my profession, it’s my passion and my way of life.”
With his continued presence at the highest level and his involvement in breeding, John Whitaker remains a leading figure in show jumping as a rider, trainer, and mentor to the next generation.
