THORNTON DREAMS OF BIG FINISH

ANDREW THORNTON has four chances to sign off with a victory before he quits the saddle today, including in a race named in his honour.

Thornton, 45, who has ridden 1,005 winners in a 29-year career, partners Edward Elgar in the Andrew Thornton Congratulations On Your Retirement Handicap Hurdle at 2.10.

However, he believes he has a better opportunity on Amirr in the following maiden hurdle.

“Edward Elgar has an each-way chance,” said Thornton (above). “But Amirr is my best hope. He’s had a break and is back on decent ground.”

The Gold Cup-winning jockey (above) also rides Westerberry (3.10) and Manhattan Spring (3.40).

“I’m really looking forward to the meeting,” Thornton added. “It’s an honour to have a race named after me — particularly as I’m still alive!”