Hickstead welcomes thousands for Al Shira'aa Derby Meeting
Last Updated: 27/06/18 2:57pm
Hickstead played host to around 45,000 spectators at the weekend for the Al Shira'aa Derby Meeting - one of the most popular events on the equestrian calendar.
Warm, sunny weather greeted the fans, riders and horses, with the four-day event at the West Sussex showground culminating in the Derby on the Sunday afternoon.
Hickstead Highlights
Watch Hickstead highlights on Sky Sports Action on Wednesday June 27 at 8pm
The fearsome Derby course provides a stern test for the riders, with iconic obstacles such as the Bank and the Devil's Dyke guaranteeing plenty of excitement.
Going for glory on Sunday was three-time winner William Funnell, having previously clocked up a hat-trick of victories in 2006, 2008 and 2009 with Cortaflex Mondriaan. This year, he rode 10-year-old Billy Buckingham.
But Funnell faced some stiff competition, with Holly Smith bidding to become the first female winner since 2011 alongside Harriet Nuttall, who rode A Touch Imperious.
James Whitaker and Shane Breen were also hopeful of a successful weekend.
And you can watch all the highlights of a thrilling weekend at Hickstead on Sky Sports Action, on Wednesday, June 27 at 8pm.
