Ian Millar follows in the riding footsteps of father 'Captain Canada'
Former Olympian Ian Millar changes role as his daughter, Amy, competes in the Rio Olympic Games
Canadian Ian Millar and his horse, Star Power, jump over a barrier during the London Olympic Games in 2012. This year Millar will be a spectator as his daughter, Amy, competes in Rio (Photo: Getty Images/Alex Livesey)
Ian Millar has competed at 10 Olympic Games since Munich 1972 but will see Rio 2016 in a new role as coach to his daughter Amy Millar on her Olympic debut.
Wearing his signature white straw cowboy hat, the team jacket of London 2012 and the goIden jewellery ring with Olympic rings that Canada's federation gave him for the team silver medal at Beijing 2008, Ian Millar is far from being an Olympic tourist.
"As a coach I am confident of our team. As a father I am here with great anticipation for my daughter and as for not competing, it was very much my plan to be here," said Ian Millar, 69, known in his home country as "Captain Canada."
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Millar senior had to cancel his participation at Rio 2016 after his horse Dixon developed a very rare hematoma in his sinus that had to be surgically removed, causing several months of recovery.
"He is back in work but was not fit enough for the Games," Millar senior said.
He already has a horse for Tokyo 2020 in his barn. "Vittorio is now eight and very promising. Tokyo would be perfect timing for him."
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Initially, Amy offered her horse Heros to her father. "I really wanted him to compete here but he said to me 'you should take your shot'," Amy said.
"It is invaluable for me and for the team to have him here sharing his knowledge.
"I have followed many Olympics with my father and I always knew that they are special. The Olympics bring out the best in people and as a competitor I feel this even stronger.
"This is all about a partnership with your horse. I have ridden him (Heros) for two years and I know him very well. That will be my biggest asset this week, that I know him so well."
