Bob Skelton
A Legend in the Saddle
Robert James “Bob” Skelton, a name that resonates with racing enthusiasts across the country, stands as one of the most accomplished jockeys in our nation’s rich racing history. Inducted into the Racing Hall of Fame in 2006, Skelton’s career is a testament to skill, determination, and an innate understanding of thoroughbred racing.
Born on 28 December 1934 in Cobden, a small town on the West Coast, Skelton was destined for greatness in the racing world. He hailed from a family steeped in racing tradition, with his brother Bill also achieving legendary status in the sport.
A Career of Unparalleled Success
Skelton’s riding career spanned four decades, during which he amassed an astounding 2129 winners. This remarkable tally is a testament to his consistency, skill, and longevity in a sport known for its physical demands and fierce competition.
One of the most impressive aspects of Skelton’s career was his dominance in the jockeys’ premiership. He claimed the title nine times, a feat that speaks volumes about his sustained excellence over many years. This achievement is even more remarkable when considered alongside his brother Bill’s seven premierships, highlighting the Skelton family’s grip on the sport during this era.
Mastery of the Staying Races
Skelton’s prowess was particularly evident in staying races, where his patience, tactical acumen, and ability to judge pace came to the fore. His record in 3200-metre and two-mile races is nothing short of extraordinary, with 20 victories over these testing distances.
Perhaps his most famous partnership was with the great stayer Great Sensation. Together, they achieved the remarkable feat of winning three consecutive Wellington Cups from 1961 to 1963. This hat-trick of victories in one of our most prestigious races underscores Skelton’s ability to form lasting partnerships with top-class horses.
Success Across the Tasman
While Skelton’s achievements on home soil were impressive enough, he also made his mark in Australia. The pinnacle of his success across the Tasman came in 1976 when he guided Van der Hum to victory in the Melbourne Cup. This win in “the race that stops a nation” cemented Skelton’s status as a jockey of international repute.
His success in Australia wasn’t limited to a single race. Skelton’s skill saw him triumph in numerous other prestigious events, including the Toorak Handicap, Turnbull Stakes, and Memsie Stakes. He also achieved the rare feat of winning back-to-back Perth Cups with Magistrate in 1980 and 1981.
A Legacy Beyond the Saddle
Skelton’s contributions to racing were recognised well beyond his riding achievements. In 1978, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to horse racing as a jockey. This honour reflected not just his success, but also the esteem in which he was held within the racing community.
Following his retirement from riding in the 1987-88 season, Skelton turned his hand to training. His success in this new role was highlighted by the achievements of Oregon Seal, a diminutive mare who won nine races including the Tesio Stakes. This transition demonstrated Skelton’s deep understanding of thoroughbreds and his ability to succeed in multiple facets of the racing industry.
A Lasting Impact
Bob Skelton’s impact on our racing industry extends far beyond his impressive list of victories. He was a role model for aspiring jockeys, demonstrating the rewards of hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship. His induction into both the Racing Hall of Fame in 2006 and the Sports Hall of Fame in 1995 stands as a testament to his enduring legacy.
In 2007, the Auckland Racing Club further honoured Skelton by naming him their 8th official “Legend of Ellerslie”. This recognition was particularly fitting given his nine jockey premierships at Ellerslie Racecourse between 1955 and 1976.
Bob Skelton passed away in Melbourne on 19 August 2016, but his legacy lives on. He remains a towering figure in our racing history, remembered not just for his remarkable achievements, but for the skill, grace, and sportsmanship he brought to the sport.
In conclusion, Bob Skelton’s profile in the Racing Hall of Fame tells the story of a true champion. From his early days on the West Coast to his triumphs on the biggest stages of Australasian racing, Skelton’s career embodies the very best of our racing tradition. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of jockeys and racing enthusiasts, ensuring that the Skelton name will forever be synonymous with excellence in thoroughbred racing.