THE FULL STORY: The greatest and most beloved horse in show jumping history, Milton took the world by storm by winning almost every major prize in the sport and captivating fans everywhere with his brilliance and charisma. Foaled in 1977 and sold as a weanling to Caroline Bradley, “the little grey thing” was a high-spirited handful. But his natural ability led him to victory nearly every time out. Tragically, Caroline died of a heart attack after a 1983 competition, leaving her heartbroken parents the sad task of finding someone else to carry on with her beloved jumper. After a brief and successful stay with Steve Hadley, Milton was moved to the barn of John Whitaker, forming what may be the greatest horse and rider partnership the sport has ever known. Milton’s international career took off in 1986, and by 1991 he had won 13 Grands Prix and eight World Cup qualifiers. He became only the second horse to win the World Cup Final in two consecutive years (1990-91), and he dominated the International Masters competition at Wembley’s Horse of the Year Show for three years running (1988-1990). His winning ways continued in 1992 and 1993 with four more Grands Prix victories and a victory in the Mercedes German Masters, and he took his final Grand Prix and his retirement in 1994. Always a regal sight with his nearly white coat and commanding presence, Milton would respond after victories with his signature salute — a dramatic leap into the air with all four feet off the ground. Milton never lost his natural exuberance. He died in 1999, leaving a legacy of achievement, charisma, and adulation that may never be equaled.
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