Arise Sir Anthony McCoy!
One of the most highly deserved knighthoods (in my humble opinion) has been granted to Anthony McCoy, or AP / The Champ as we more commonly refer to him as. The 20 time Champion jockey, having 31 career winners at the Festival Cheltenham, setting the record of most wins in a season with 289 and a whopping 4,357 career wins. Wow. He battled numerous injuries, managed his weight and remained motivated for 20 consecutive years, absolutely incredible in my opinion. Never again will we see his like, such a long and relentless period of unparalleled success, this hugely driven, determined and committed man is one of a kind. He would get horses to win that never looked like winning, give horses confidence that was beyond their experience and lets not forget he would also give invaluable feedback to trainers and owners post-race that would help their horse to progress next time. The man was the complete jockey package and became hugely popular with the public; there won't have been a dry eye in Aintree the day he finally won the Grand National at his 15th attempt onboard Don't Push It. Family Business when re-mounting was allowed, Wichita Lineman at Cheltenham, Synchronised in the Gold Cup, Pridwell when he got the better of Istabraq, Drill Sergeant who practically pulled himself up but was still convinced to win by the Champ (or should that read persuaded!) AP McCoy would put as much effort into a ride at Uttoxeter as he would at the Cheltenham Festival. You always knew you would get 100% from the Champ wherever he was riding, whatever he was riding and to do this for a career lasting over 7,300 days is certainly something that should be recognised
If you get a few moments in this holiday period I'd definitely reckoned watching the documentary 'Being AP'; I found it enthralling viewing, and it gives you a call insight into the Champ and his personality and daily battles.
Congratulations Sir Anthony McCoy!
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