Michael Whitaker


Michael Whitaker is a British Olympic equestrian rider, who competes in the sport of show jumping. He was ranked 5th by the British Showjumping Association in March 2014.

Career

Younger brother of John Whitaker, Michael began competing on ponies at the age of 5. At the age of 16, he made his debut in international competitions and in 1980 he became the second youngest winner of the Hickstead Derby, at the age of 20. In September 1993 he took over from his brother John as the internationally top-ranked show jumping rider.

Personal life

Born and raised on his parents’ farm in Yorkshire. Michael and his three brothers John, Steven and Ian were taught to ride by their mother Enid, a keen horsewoman. Michael began riding aged three on a Shetland pony named Hercules.
In December 1980, Michael married Belgian show jumper Veronique. They separated in 1997, and later divorced
Michael and Melissa married on the 13 August 2013 in a registry office in Nottinghamshire. They live at Whatton, Nottinghamshire with their children Jack, Molly and Katy.

Major achievements