AP McCoy has admitted that he was holding back the tears as he embarked on the final ride of his record-breaking career this afternoon.
The 40-year-old came third in the saddle of 5-2 favourite Box Office in the 4.25pm at Sandown, having achieved the same finish on Mr Mole earlier in the meet.
In front of an appreciative sell-out crowd, the champion jump jockey was presented with the trophy that he has won 20 times in an emotional send-off.
McCoy told reporters: "It's amazing. I've been so lucky all my life. I'll never forget this day.
"I want to thank everyone for coming. All my family were here and it's very special. An unbelievable day I'll never forget.
"There were tears coming back on Box Office. There were nearly tears going out on Box Office. I feel very lucky I have ended my career in one piece."
McCoy has ridden more than 4,300 career winners, including two in the Cheltenham Gold Cup and one in the 2010 Grand National.
Joe Fish
