New challenge: crack showjumper Joe Whitaker makes hurdles debut at Newcastle

International showjumper Joe Whitaker will fulfil a lifelong ambition when he makes his debut as a jump jockey at Newcastle on Tuesday.

The 32-year-old, who is part of the famous Olympic medal-winning Whitaker showjumping dynasty, has been riding out at Sue Smith's Bingley stable since last August and will partner Ladronne for fledgling trainer Tjade Collier in division two of the 2m6f amateur riders' handicap hurdle (4.10).

There is no question Whitaker possesses the right pedigree as he comes from a world-famous family with a distinguished background in showjumping.

He has been moulded into a talented rider securing several impressive wins as well as picking up a bronze medal at the 2006 Junior European Championships. His career highlight came in 2016 when part of the Great Britain team to win the five-star Nations Cup in Gijon.

"It's something I've always fancied doing but never really had the chance to before now," he said. "I was born on a horse, but race-riding is completely different to showjumping.

"I found it hard getting used to the different balance and positioning as well as the different controls, but I've been doing plenty of schooling and fitness work. I feel quite comfortable and stepping into the unknown is exciting.

"Ladronne is a nice horse who Tjade thinks a lot of and I'm very grateful to him for putting me up. He's going up in trip, but he's the highest-rated horse in the line-up so has half a chance."

Tjade Collier: jockey turned trainer has been giving Joe Whitaker a helping hand

His uncles John and Michael won medals at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles and sister Ellen and cousins Robert and William also ride at international level, and Whitaker is hoping to make a good go of it as a jockey.

"I'm approaching racing with an open mind, but I wouldn't be doing it if I wasn't going to take it seriously," he added. "I'm a very competitive person who doesn't like doing anything by half and I'm going to give it go."

Whitaker has also been getting a helping hand from Collier, an ex-jump jockey with nearly 90 winners, as the pair aim to get off the mark in their respective new careers.

"It would be a fairytale if we can get our first wins together," the trainer said. "I've been trying to educate him on the racing job. He's as keen as mustard and has such a drive about him. All he wants to do is win."

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