AP GOING FOR THE MAXIMUS
AP McCoy has nominated I Am Maximus as the horse he would choose to ride in this year’s Grand National.
McCoy, who famously won the National at the 15th attempt on Don’t Push It, is now an ambassador for William Hill.
While he may have been champion jockey 20 times, he admits that had he never won the National, he would have retired with a sense of unfulfillment.
“I love Liverpool as a place, the people make it special. It’s the most famous race in the world and for that reason it is very difficult to win,” said McCoy (right).
“It was just relief when I crossed the line on Don’t Push It.
Interest
“I’m not from a racing family but just like all other non-racing families, the one race you take an interest in every year is the Grand National.
McCoy is certain which horse would be his pick:
“I think you could make a case for all five, but I Am Maximus would still be my choice,” he said.
“With the ground conditions the way they are, I think it is really going to suit the Willie Mullins’ horses.
“They go on any ground but go particularly well when the ground is soft or heavy.
“I Am Maximus has won an Irish Grand
National, he’s won the Grade One Drinmore Novice Chase and he won the Bobbyjo last time, which is a really good trial for the National.
With Paul Townend riding him, he ticks a lot of boxes, he’s a class horse.
“You could easily go Meetingofthewaters, he ran really well in the Ultima, which Corach Rambler won last year, he’s on a really nice weight, so he has a lot going for him. “Mark Walsh has chosen Limerick Lace, she won well at Cheltenham and has a touch of class. “Capodanno ran in the race last year, when he was disappointing, but I think he’s a much better horse this year ,and he won the Cotswold Chase in January, so I could see him running well as well.
“But if I had to pick, it would be I Am Maximus.”
The ground is set to be testing day but likely not as bad as in
2001, when Red Marauder was one of only four finishers, and two of them had to be remounted, with
McCoy getting back on Blowing Wind having been unseated — a move that would not be permitted now.
“I genuinely believe that Blowing Wind would have won the Grand National,” he said.
Ever the competitor!