THE Whitaker dynasty is synonymous with show jumping and John Whitaker is one of the most famous names in the sport.

John began riding at the age of six on the family farm and got his first taste of competition at eight years old.

He achieved huge success winning medals at the World and European Championships during the 1980s and 1990s and a team silver medal at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984.

John is also an incredible 'against all odds' story.

He suffered a life-threatening brain haemorrhage in 2000 which put him in intensive care. His love for horses and drive for his sport got him back on board and in the competition arena, and now he is about to compete at Rio…

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