Nick Skelton and Big Star’s Fitting Retirement Ceremony at Royal Windsor Horse Show

Published 16/05/2017 at 09:48 GMT

After a stellar career spanning more than four decades, British Show Jumping legend Nick Skelton and his horse Big Star bade a public farewell on the last day of England’s Royal Windsor Horse Show this past weekend, retiring from a sport in which the 59-year-old has won most of the major global titles — including Olympic gold at London 2012 and Rio 2016.

Image credit: Eurosport

In front of the Queen and an overflowing arena, the celebrated Show Jumping pair walked together in front of many emotional onlookers, with Skelton paying tribute to his champion competition partner and all who have helped him over the course of his career.

“I’ve had the most wonderful horses, great owners and great sponsors, and I am very proud of what I have done,” he said. “I would do it all again if I could.” Big Star will also retire from competition and go to stud, while Skelton will reportedly continue his work with young horses, amongst other things.

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