Patrick Mullins was won ride of the season after his inspiration victory aboard Rathvinden in the National Hunt Chase at this years Cheltenham Festival.
The McCoy Awards – named after legendary Irish jockey AP McCoy – reflect on the highlights and triumphs of the horse racing season from the famed jockeys, to owners, trainers, right down to the unsung heroes that are the stable staff.
Mullins was riding for his father Willie when he recovered after a mistake at the 11th fence to take home the most unlikeliest of victories.
It was the jockey’s fourth win at Cheltenham.
"It's magic to get another winner here." – Patrick Mullins overjoyed to have guided Rathvinden to success in the National Hunt Chase @CheltenhamRaces and advises the 10-year-old is "100 per cent" despite not returning to the winners' enclosure afterwards. #TheFestival pic.twitter.com/Lg2P10pjGZ
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) March 13, 2018
Elsewhere at the now annual awards ceremony, Nicky Henderson was named leading trainer, whilst his horse Mighty Bite won horse of the season. The nine-year-old won the King George and Betway Bowl in a brilliant year with his sole defeat coming to Native River in the Gold Cup.
Native River’s fantastic Gold Cup win was also celebrated, winning horse performance of the year.
The special outstanding contribution award went to recently retired Andrew Thornton who rode 1,007 winners throughout a 28-year career in the saddle.
The stable person of the year award was won by Kate Robinson who is the head girl for Jamie Snowden. She was awarded for her fantastic work ethic throughout the season.
A fantastic night for horse racing, that seen all the stars of the sport come together to celebrate each others achievements.
