Career
Competing since the age of 5, Ellen has much experience in the equestrian world and qualified for HOYS at just 8 years old.
In 2006, Ellen and Her father/trainer Steven Whitaker were hit with a legal dispute over ownership of 13 horses, including her top horse Locarno. However, a few months later a peace deal was made.
In 2007, Ellen represented Great Britain in the European Championships and helped allow Britain to qualify for the Olympics after jumping triple clear. Unfortunately, she just missed out on being selected for the 2008 Beijing Olympics due to lameness in horse Locarno 62.
In 2010, Ellen Whitaker spoke to the press after refusing to jump for the British team due to a conflict with the British team manager, Rob Hoekstra. She told H&H: “I only have Ocolado at the moment and Rob wanted to interfere with the way I do everything.” Her father and manager Steven Whitaker added: "It’s not a matter of Ellen not wanting to jump for her country, but we won’t jump again until Rob Hoekstra is finished." But British Equestrian Federation World Class performance director Will Connell said: "The riders wanted stronger management and leadership and that’s what Rob is delivering." Mr Hoekstra did not wish to comment, saying: “I do not think team issues are best resolved through the press.”
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