4,000 Career Wins For AP McCoy

Northern Ireland jockey Tony 'AP' McCoy has recorded his 4,000th career win.

The victory puts him almost 1,500 ahead of the next most successful jockey, Richard Johnson, who has ridden 2,567 winners.

McCoy, who turns 40 next year, won the 3.10 at Towcester on Mountain Tunes to reach the landmark on Thursday.

He was congratulated on the feat by Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín.

The Minister said: "On the 26 March, 1992, a 17-year-old Tony McCoy rode Legal Steps to victory in Thurles. It was the first win of a career that would grow into one of the most successful in sport. With today's milestone, Tony's achievements stand as legendary in the history of horse-racing – both in Ireland and internationally.

"Tony has been champion jockey in each of the last 18 years. To reach the pinnacle of any sport is commendable, but to stay there for almost two decades is quite remarkable.

"Tony's career includes wins in the biggest races in the national hunt calendar, including the Cheltenham Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle and Grand National. In a sport where falls are inevitable and injuries common, Tony has also endured broken bones, dislocations and hospital stays.

"What has endeared him to fans both here and across the world is that he has accepted triumph and disappointment with modesty, humility and good grace.

"Now, Tony is judged by the standards he sets himself. His place in Irish and international sporting history was assured long ago and his achievements continue to be an inspiration for us all."

(JP/CD)