After Dinner Speakers: Michael Whitaker, David English, David Baddiel

One of Britain’s most successful show jumpers ever, Michael has represented his country on over a hundred Nations Cup Teams, he has Olympic, World and European medals to his name not to mention a string of famous titles including four King George V Cup wins. This year Michael was third at the World Cup Final in Gothenburg riding Virtual Village Handel II, it was the 14th time that he had qualified for the Final. Michael Whitaker was born and raised on his parents’ farm in Yorkshire, where he was taught to ride by his mother, who was a keen horsewoman. After making a name for himself competing ponies he quickly moved on to horses where he earned a reputation as a strong and determined rider. In 1980, at the age of 20, he became the youngest ever winner of the Hickstead Derby on Owen Gregory. In September 1993 Michael took over from his brother as the World Number 1 for the first time in his career. It is difficult to mention Michael without the name of his equally famous elder brother John coming into the conversation. In the early years Michael has always slightly in John’s shadow but he has since established himself as a world class rider in own right. The brothers Whitaker have entertained the fans of show jumping for over 20 years and they no sign of them giving up their position at the top. They are both huge favourites with the crowds at Olympia, keen competitors they are also not afraid to let their hair down and join in the party spirit. Their appearances in the Pairs Fancy Dress over the years are legendary, featuring a range of hilarious guises.