AP McCoy, the recently retired, record shattering jump jockey was back in the spotlight on Sunday when he scooped the 'Lifetime Achievement Award' at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony in Belfast. 41-year-old McCoy, born and reared in County Antrim in Northern Ireland, retired back in May having been champion jockey in Britain for each one of the twenty seasons he rode there. In total he rode 4,357 winners including all the major races a jump jockey wants to win including an Aintree Grand National and two Cheltenham Gold Cups. He became the first jockey to win the BBC Sports Personality of the year award in 2010 and when you consider the sheer longevity of his career at the pinnacle of his sport this latest accolade was tailor made for McCoy. Famed for his iron will and constitution McCoy appeared humbled by his award and following the presentation from fellow countryman and golfer Rory McIlroy, he said, “Can I just say what an honor and privilege it is to receive such a prestigious award, especially here in Belfast. Being from Northern Ireland, a place that has produced so many talented and successful sports people – none more so than the fellow on my right (McIlroy) – it makes tonight even more special. Racing is a wonderful sport, I was very lucky to live my life as a jockey through it, and for that I will be for ever grateful.”
McCoy continued, ” There are so many people I would like to thank – I rode in nearly 18,000 races and I would like to thank the horses I was able to ride in those, because without them this wouldn't be possible. I would like to thank the stable lads and lasses, who looked after them so well, they look after them better than you would ever believe. To the BBC for this, because this is amazing. And finally to any young people watching tonight's show, or who are here this evening, all I can say is 'make the sacrifices, because it is worth it'. Thank you very much.”
Thank you very much AP McCoy, you have been a fantastic ambassador for racing and you will continue to be so through your various media and charitable roles.
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