Tributes pour in for McCoy

McCoy (left) on his way to the victory on Valfonic

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The world of racing has paid tribute to Tony McCoy after the jockey beat Sir Gordon Richards' record for the number of winners in a season.

McCoy equalled Sir Gordon's mark of 269 when he won the 1540BST at Warwick on Shepherds Rest.

Half-an-hour later the record was his as he partnered Valfonic to victory in the Leek Wooton Novices' Handicap Hurdle.

McCoy celebrates breaking Sir Gordon's record

Channel Four betting guru John McCririck said that there had never been a rider to match McCoy.

"The man is a colossus. We have never seen his like before," said McCririck.

"Sir Gordon Richards was a colossus of his age and a tremendous jockey but we have to remember that McCoy is riding over jumps, with all the perils and dangers that entails.

"It's absolutely amazing what he has done and it is something we will all remember forever."

Former champion jump jockey John Francome also paid tribute to McCoy and believes Sir Gordon would be delighted with McCoy's achievement.

"I'm sure that will be a relief for him." said Francome. "I'm absolutely delighted for him.

It's the most unbelievable achievement in National Hunt racing

Former jockey
Steve Smith-Eccles

"I know Frankie Dettori tried to equal the record a few years ago but got absolutely exhausted doing it.

"Fifty five years is a long time for any record to stand. I knew Sir Gordon Richards well and he would have been thrilled."

Steve Smith-Eccles, who won the Champion Hurdle three times in the late 1980s, hailed McCoy's record-breaking performance.

"Obviously it's been coming but it's the most unbelievable achievement in National Hunt racing," said Smith-Eccles.

"He's a credit to the sport and I think it's a phenomenal achievement."