Eight-Time Olympian, Ian Millar, Loses Wife As Games Approach

Perth, Ontario - Lynn Millar, wife of Canada's most frequent  Olympian, Ian Millar, passed away today after a long illness, at the family's Millar Brooke Farm in Perth, Ontario.

Although Lynn played a quiet, behind-the-scenes role in the sport, she was an outstanding horsewoman and an integral part of Ian Millar's success. She played a fundamental role in developing the top-class training facility at Millar Brooke Farm and in the training of Millar's mounts.

She was a devoted mother of Jonathon, 33, and Amy, 31. Ian,  Jonathon and Amy were by her side in the final weeks of her life. Lynn and Ian were married since 1969.

Lynn played a role in all of the achievements that have made Ian Millar Canada's most decorated equestrian, known as "Captain Canada" world-wide. She was by his side or assisting with the training for 8 Olympic Games, 8 Pan American Games and 6 World Championships, as well as seeing him set the record as the first-ever to win back-to-back World Cup Finals. She witnessed him receive the Order of Canada and be inducted into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame.

"This has been a long battle and is a very, very sad, tragic day for us", Ian Millar said, "I would love more than anything to have Lynn by my side if I am asked to ride at this year's Olympic Games", but he added that he does not plan on withdrawing himself from contention for that team. "Amy, Jonathon and I will move forward. That is the only way Lynn would want it."

Lynn was extremely proud of the recent achievements of Jonathon and Amy in the sport. Jonathon finished runner-up to his father in the last Canadian Show Jumping Championship and Amy is on the Canadian Equestrian Team short-list, following a sensational 2007 season. If Ian earns an Olympic team berth this year, it will equal the world record of 9 Olympic appearances.

Canadian show jumping team candidates are being observed by selectors from March through June. Selection is a subjective process by committee.

Lynn (nee Doran) was raised in Ottawa and settled in Perth, following her marriage to Ian Millar. She will be sadly missed not only by her family but by the entire equestrian community.

For further information call: Jayne Huddleston 561-889-3160 (cell phone in Florida until March 10, after March 10 can be reached at 905-338-8328)