White Men Can Jump
A Q&A with Ian Millar, who headlines the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair’s horse show By Kelly Pullen
Image credit: CP Images
He’s attended a record-tying nine Olympics. He’s dominated back-to-back World Cups, standing up for Canada at every show jumping world championship since 1972. He’s ruled more Pan American Games than any other rider. But when Ian Millar led his team to the silver medal in Beijing this summer, it marked the 61-year-old’s first visit to an Olympic podium. Back in the saddle again, with his sights set on London in 2012, the indefatigable equestrian chats about staying fit, the perfect ride and a crazy little thing called chemistry.
You’ve waited a long time for an Olympic medal. Has it sunk
in yet? It has, but now I’m finding out how much it meant to others.
Our fans really wanted us to win.
Your old horse, Big Ben, was your partner for 11 years. But In Style got you the silver. How do they compare?
Many riders go their whole career and never get a great horse. Big Ben was a great one. In Style
is very different, but right on the money. It just works.
What makes a horse great?
Most riders would probably give
you the same list of characteristics—power, good technique, the horse
has to be naturally careful, yet brave. But what it really comes down
to is chemistry. It’s like when a woman walks into a room full of men,
and in about 30 seconds she picks out “the one.”
Do you think In Style knew you’d pulled off a perfect ride in
the team jump?
As we walked into the ring he sure knew he was being called upon. The whole team was there, and based on the score
of other rides, they told me what I needed to do. I could sense In Style
sort of grow underneath me, and as soon as he picked up the gallop,
I knew I was going to get his absolute best.
You’re 61 and looking to compete in the London Olympics in four years. You must be eating your Wheaties.
I’m lucky to have good genes. I work out every morning and eat reasonably well—I just obey
the basic rules. That, and I try not to fall off the horse too many times.
Ian Millar headlines the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair’s horse show starting Nov. 7. $36–$70.
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