From groom to grand prix: Skye Higgin’s inspiring rise in show jumping

ph Stefano Secchi

In Rabat, Morocco, where riders from around the world are competing in the Moroccan tour, British rider Skye Higgin stands out. Her path in equestrian sports is as unique as it is inspiring. Unlike many riders who start young, Skye only began riding seriously at eighteen, starting her career as a groom—a job that helped her build skills and resilience along the way.

A late start and a drive to succeed

Skye reflects on her early days: “I actually started riding properly when I was eighteen. I began as a groom and worked my way up from there, really.” Although she started later than most, Skye was motivated by the challenge. “I was good at sports when I was younger, but with riding, I wasn’t very good at first. The fact that I couldn’t do it made me even more determined to succeed,” she says.

Now in her thirties, Skye’s journey is a testament to her determination and hard work, qualities she credits to her sports background. She attended a sports school where she learned the importance of mental strength. “The psychology in sport is so important. I try to learn from every mistake and move forward,” she says, which has helped her steadily improve.

Reaching the five-star level with Djordania du Tillard

A key moment in Skye’s career came with Djordania du Tillard, a mare she raised herself, who helped her reach the five-star level in show jumping. “We jumped our first five-star in Rotterdam last year,” she recalls. “Having Djordania, a home-bred horse, at that level gave me a taste of the five-star competition and made me want it even more.” Skye also feels lucky to have had the chance to keep Djordania, thanks to her supportive owner. “It’s one thing to compete with these amazing horses, but to keep and grow with them is incredible,” she says.

She also has a new horse, Fly For You, a nine-year-old mare she started riding three months ago. “She’s a bit green, but I absolutely adore her,” Skye says. “It’s been great to see her progress as we prepare for next year.”

The role of mentor Dave Quigley

Another important person in Skye’s career has been her mentor, Dave Quigley, who gave her the first opportunity to ride while she was still working as a groom. “After grooming and mucking out, he taught me to break horses in,” she recalls. “Then he let me ride them as they grew older. That was a rare chance.” Skye is grateful for Dave’s support and says they still keep in touch. “He’s still there if something goes wrong, especially at the bigger competitions, which are new for me. It’s nice to have that support,” she says.

Choosing horses with heart and spirit

Working with young horses is something Skye loves, and she often rides horses still in training. When asked what she looks for in a horse, Skye says it’s all about their attitude. “A good mentality—one that’s eager to work and has that ‘fighter’ spirit—sets a horse apart,” she explains. “Even if they aren’t the most talented, having a horse that’s a fighter and wants to work with you is a pleasure to train.”

Skye is also able to work with her own owners and has a stable with both young and older horses. “I’m lucky to have a mix. It’s nice to reach a point in my career where I can go to the bigger shows with an experienced team,” she says.

Future goals and staying focused

When it comes to her long-term goals, Skye dreams of competing in a championship someday. “Of course, the Olympics is a dream, but honestly, any championship is my goal,” she reveals. Since she started later than most riders, reaching these goals would mean a lot to her.

And if it hadn’t been horses, Skye says she might have pursued athletics. “I actually did modern pentathlon and long-distance running, and hockey too,” she recalls. Today, she still keeps up with other sports to stay fit and clear her mind. “Show jumping can absorb every thought. Doing other activities keeps my mind fresh, which helps with my riding.”

With each competition, Skye Higgin keeps proving her dedication and love for her horses. Her journey from groom to rising champion shows that with hard work and the right mindset, anything is possible. Looking forward, Skye reflects with a smile, “I’d love to jump at a championship—that’s really the dream. I just hope I can keep building, keep my team strong, and have the horses and owners who believe in the journey with me. That’s the path I’m committed to.”

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