Celebrating 70 Years of John Whitaker: A Legend in the Saddle and a Champion of Equine Care

This year, we raise our riding hats to wish John Whitaker MBE a very happy 70th birthday—a milestone not just for one of the greatest showjumpers of all time, but for the entire equestrian world that continues to be inspired by his legacy.

For over five decades, John has been a name synonymous with excellence, longevity, and sheer determination in the ring. His career spans five Olympic Games, countless European and World Championship appearances, and unforgettable partnerships with legendary horses like Milton, Gammon, Argento, and now Equine America Unick du Francport.

But what makes John’s story even more impressive is that, at 70, he’s still riding—and still winning—at the top level of international competition.

A Life in the Saddle

Born in 1955 in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, John’s journey began in humble surroundings at the family’s riding school. What followed was an unmatched career built on natural talent, grit, and a deep understanding of horses. From his Olympic debut in 1984, where he helped secure team silver for Great Britain, to major victories at Hickstead, Aachen, Geneva, and beyond, John has defined what it means to be a true horseman.

Even today, as he enters his eighth decade, John remains a regular feature on the world stage, with no signs of slowing down.

The Power of Partnership: Equine America & John Whitaker

In recent years, John has found a natural ally in Equine America, the UK’s leading equine supplement brand. The partnership is grounded in a shared philosophy: to keep horses feeling and performing their best—naturally, effectively, and reliably.

“The proof is in the pudding,” John says. “The horses feel great—and I even take the human Cortaflex myself!”

John relies on Cortaflex, Buteless, and other Equine America products to support his horses through intense travel, training, and competition schedules. And the results speak for themselves: horses like Unick du Francport continue to perform at a a high -level season after season – much like John himself!

John Whitaker wins the 1998 Hickstead Derby, featured inone of Equine America’s first adverts

Still Going the Distance – With “Frank”

John’s current superstar is Equine America Unick du Francport—known as Frank. Together, they’ve built a powerful bond. Frank is quirky, opinionated, and brilliant—traits John seems to admire.

Their 2025 season saw them travel tens of thousands of air miles, from Hong Kong to Mexico and all across Europe. Despite a minor injury in late 2024, Frank returned to competition refreshed and ready—thanks in no small part to expert care and the support of targeted Equine America supplements.

At the Longines Nations Cup at Hickstead, the pair helped Great Britain secure a historic home win—proving that age is no barrier when experience, care, and talent combine.

A Legacy That Inspires

John’s 70th isn’t just a celebration of longevity; it’s a tribute to a man whose impact on the sport will echo for generations. Young riders look to him for inspiration—not just for medals, but for how he treats horses, how he carries himself, and how he never stops learning.

Equine America is proud to stand behind John and his horses as they continue to push boundaries and redefine what's possible in later years.

Cheers to 70 Years, John!

As John celebrates his 70th birthday, we honour:

• A career unmatched in British showjumping
• A partnership based on trust and care with Equine America
• A future that’s still full of possibility, purpose, and passion

From everyone at Equine America, and horse lovers everywhere:
Happy 70th Birthday, John!

Thank you for showing us what real partnership looks like—on and off the horse.