Tears of joy for Skelton boys after dad Nick scoops gold

The racing sons of Britain's Olympic showjumping hero Nick Skelton were yesterday overflowing with pride at the achievement of their father, with leading jump jockey Harry Skelton admitting he wept tears of joy for two hours.

A stalwart of equestrian sport on Friday further boosted Team GB's extraordinary gold medal haul in Rio when crowned the individual showjumping champion aboard 13-year-old Big Star, who pays daily visits to Dan Skelton's Warwickshire racing yard.

The 58-year-old rider initially retired two years ago after breaking his neck in two places, yet he returned and became Britain's oldest gold medalist in 108 years with his heartwarming display – secured at the veteran's seventh Olympics – cheered by the showjumping and racing communities alike.