'Captain Canade taking the lead with the National Show Jumping Team' reads the title on Equestrian Canada's site. Ten-time Olympian and Canadian legend Ian Millar will take on the role of technical advisor on the road to the Paris 2024 Olympics for the Canadian Showjumping Team.
Millar himself became Canadian Champion twelve (!) times and has participated in the Olympics ten times, more than any other athlete has. That's one impressive history if you ask us. The Equestrian Canada is therefore pleased with the news that Millar is the National team's new Technical Advisor and that he will guide them towards the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The EC says:
“Everyone at EC and the Canadian team are feeling proud that Ian has chosen to share his knowledge, passion and experience in a mentorship and development role that will support the team now and into the future,” said EC’s CEO Meg Krueger. “I think not only the athletes, but everyone will benefit from his guidance and infinite interest in making the sport better. And we know he likes to win, too!”
“It has been my great honour to ride for Canada for the better part of 50 years,” said Millar when asked about taking on this role. “This is my opportunity to give back and it is with further honour that I do so.”
Millar is a true Canadian at heart and a real team player `
“I’ve won a lot of Grands Prix and individual titles, but nothing is better than winning a Nations Cup alongside three other Canadians.”
“I’ve never had any prouder moments than anchoring a Canadian team,” Millar shared. “Representing our country, that has motivated me from the beginning.” That sentiment is well known by fans and is one of the reasons he has become known as Captain Canada. Everyone in and outside the sport know and feel how much Team Canada means to him – with the emphasis on team.
“A team made up of individuals rarely wins championship titles,” Millar explained his perspective. “It has to be a team; with that feeling and that spirit that every team rider has each other’s back and they all work in a synergistic manner.”
Source: Equestrian Canada
Photo©: FEI Press Release