Jack Whitaker, the 14-year-old son of Michael Whitaker, powered to victory at the Pony European Championships on Sunday (21 August) to round off a memorable week for the sport.
Following on from the captivating gold medal winning performance in Rio from veteran and legendary showjumper – Nick Skelton, Jack clinched individual gold in Denmark to prove success can be achieved by the young – as well as the not so young.
Riding his father’s 12-year-old gelding Elando Van De Roshoeve, Jack alike with Nick felt the pressure going into the final round.
“I can’t tell you how nervous I was, but I was having pains in my stomach with it knowing I had a chance of getting a medal and I was putting so much pressure on myself” he said.
Jack lay in equal fourth overnight but his final double clear was enough to secure the gold medal.
The Netherlands rider Rowen Van De Mheen finished just one fault behind Jack to take the silver honours, but the Whitaker winner proved unbeatable.
“I could feel how well my pony was going all week and he just felt different to usual. Throughout the week he was just feeling exceptional; it was as if he knew it was a championships” said the young rider.
Jack looks set to follow in his family’s footsteps and become one of showjumping’s most decorated riders as he continues the extraordinary Whitaker dynasty.
“He was unbelievable – he rode immaculately and he couldn’t have ridden any better. I am so proud of him, I honestly can’t describe how I am feeling” said father Michael.