Nick Skelton’s Hickstead Derby memories: ‘Apollo knew the course, virtually – he was brilliant to ride round there’

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Nick Skelton and Apollo in the Hickstead Derby
Nick Skelton of Great Britain riding his horse Apollo during the Silk Cut Derby at Hickstead, circa July 1988. (Photo by Bob Thomas/Getty Images)
(Image credit: Bob Thomas/Getty Images)

Looking ahead to the 61st edition of the iconic Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby on Sunday 25 June, we’ve been speaking to some of the competition’s past winners to hear their stand-out memories.

Here is what Nick Skelton, who won the Hickstead Derby in 1987 riding J Nick, and 1988 and 1989 on Apollo, had to say…

Jennifer Donald
Jennifer Donald
Showjumping and racing editor

Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.