OT Fitness – a fantastic way to engage all kids no matter what their fitness level.
Born in Jamaica, Milt Ottey immigrated to Canada with his family at the age of ten. Like many newcomers, he faced the challenge of adapting to a new country. However, one of his greatest obstacles emerged in the classroom, where he discovered that learning did not always come easily. Milt was bright and capable, but he needed an outlet through which he could channel his abilities and realize his potential.
He found that outlet in track and field. The high jump became his specialty, allowing him to express his natural discipline, athletic ability and determination. Through focused training, exceptional talent and the guidance of supportive coaches, Milt achieved outstanding results throughout his school years.
In 1978, Milt won a silver medal at the inaugural World Junior Championships in Mexico City. In 1979, he added a bronze medal at the Pan American Games in Puerto Rico, further establishing himself among Canada's leading high jumpers. By 1980, he had earned a place on Canada's Olympic team and was preparing to compete on the world's greatest sporting stage. However, Canada's participation in the Moscow Olympics was prevented by the boycott led by Western nations in protest against the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan.
Undeterred, Milt accepted a full athletic scholarship to the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), where he continued to excel on the national and international stage.
In 1982, Milt won an extraordinary 28 of 29 competitions, including the NCAA Championships in Provo, Utah, the U.S. National Championships in Knoxville, Tennessee, and the Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Australia. These remarkable achievements propelled him to the pinnacle of his sport, establishing him as the world's No. 1 high jumper in 1982.
Years of disciplined training and unwavering determination had brought Milt to the top of the international athletics world. Yet, between 1983 and 1989, a series of severe leg injuries ultimately forced him to retire prematurely from international competition.
For an athlete whose life had been defined by competition, this was a deeply personal setback. Yet, although his competitive career had ended, his determination and passion remained. Milt now faced a different challenge: finding a new direction for his talents, energy and life experience.
Over the Top became the defining theme of Milt's journey — a story of rising above obstacles, pursuing excellence and discovering new possibilities in the face of adversity. It was a philosophy that would eventually inspire the creation of OT Fitness.
In 2002, Milt returned to Canada ready to begin a new chapter. Drawing on his experience as an elite athlete and coach, he established the Over the Top Track Club, continuing his commitment to developing athletic talent and helping young people realize their potential.
During this period, Milt was also employed by International Fun and Team Athletics (IFTA), a British company specializing in kids athletics and team-based sporting programs. His enthusiasm, athletic background and ability to connect with young people made him a prominent representative of the organization. Milt became the face of IFTA, helping bring its programs to life and introducing children to the excitement of sport, teamwork and physical activity.
These experiences reinforced his belief that sport could be much more than competition. It could be a powerful tool for building confidence, developing fundamental movement skills, encouraging teamwork and helping children overcome challenges. Milt recognized that the lessons he had learned throughout his own life could make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.
In 2010, Milt founded Milt Ottey's OT Fitness, building on his athletic achievements, coaching experience and work with youth programs. Having coached at the university and college levels in both Canada and the United States, he brought a wealth of experience and a clear vision to his new venture.
His mission was to give back to the communities and country he loved by helping young Canadians discover their potential through physical activity, physical literacy, wellness and healthy living.
OT Fitness was built on the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to develop confidence, learn new skills, embrace an active lifestyle and experience the satisfaction of personal achievement. Through positive motivation, encouragement, coaching and support, the organization strives to help children overcome challenges, build resilience and discover what they are capable of achieving.
Milt's own journey gives this mission a deeply personal meaning. Having experienced learning challenges, reached the heights of international athletic success and endured career-ending injuries, he understands that every individual faces obstacles. With the right encouragement, opportunities and support, those obstacles can become stepping stones to achievement.
For Milt, Over the Top means more than clearing a high-jump bar or becoming the best in the world. It means overcoming learning challenges, persevering through injury, adapting when life takes an unexpected turn and finding a renewed sense of purpose. Above all, it means helping others recognize their potential and giving them the confidence to pursue their own goals.
Today, that philosophy remains at the heart of OT Fitness: inspiring the next generation to strive for excellence, embrace challenges and discover the rewards of an active, healthy and fulfilling life.
Milt Ottey's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, purpose and the human spirit. From a young immigrant finding his way in a new country, to an international champion, to founding a track club, becoming the face of IFTA and ultimately creating OT Fitness, Milt has dedicated his life to helping others reach higher, believe in themselves and go Over the Top.
Over the Top — reaching higher, overcoming obstacles and inspiring every child to discover their potential.
