AP McCoy returns to racing at Barbury

AP McCoy is to make a return to racing at Barbury International Horse Trials, where he will take on a team of the world’s greatest eventers.

Amazing career

McCoy is to ride in the JCB Champions Challenge (Saturday 11 July), racing against Andrew Nicholson – who has won the three-star at Barbury for the past three years – Sir Mark Todd, Harry Meade and Tina Cook.

The 20-times champion jockey retired from racing in April this year following an amazing career, with over 4,300 winners.

Relay race

Joining McCoy when he makes his return to the saddle are Richard Johnson – the second-most successful jockey in jump history, behind the team captain – Wayne Hutchinson, stable jockey to Barbury trainer Alan King and up-and-coming jump jockey Sam Twiston-Davies.

The race, which is held in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund,will see the teams go head-to-head in a relay race over a specially designed course, which includes a water jump.

The winning junior and senior teams from the Inter Hunt Scurry, held earlier in the day, will form the final two teams.

Nail biting

Nigel Bunter,chairman of the St. James’s Place Wealth ManagementBarburyInternational Horse Trialssaid:

“Last year the jump jockeys were victorious in the inaugural running of this event. We have some of the greatest names in horseracing and eventing taking part and it’s also very exciting we will be welcoming AP McCoy to Barbury.

“We are expecting a nail biting renewal and the eventer’s will be hungry for a win. We are delighted to host theChampions Challengeagain together with JCB and supporting the Injured Jockeys Fund. May the best team win!”

Tickets for Barbury start at £12 per person, per day booked in advance. Children under 12 go free. For information and tickets visit Barbury Horse Trials website.