Patched-up Popham steers Annacotty to emotional triumph
IAN POPHAM, whose dreams have been as smashed up as his injury-ravaged body, grabbed a hugely emotional win as he drove Annacotty to victory in the £160,000 Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham.
There were times in the past four years when the 25-year-old jockey almost walked away from the sport, but his resolution was rewarded as the 12-1 shot held off the late challenge of Buywise by half a length.
In October 2011, Popham broke his pelvis in six places when a horse fell on him. He was back a few months then fractured his pelvis again in another fall.
Last season further injuries piled up, as he broke his collar-bone three times and suffered fractures of the cheekbone, chin and jaw.
It was little wonder he punched air in victory yesterday. Owner Liz Prowting had transferred the talented but jaded Annacotty from trainer Martin Keighley to colleague Alan King but insisted the jockey kept the ride. It turned out to be an act of loyalty which could be pivotal in Popham’s career.
Popham said: ‘I have proved I can still do it. There was a point when I thought this is not going right, maybe it is not meant to be. I am glad I stuck at it.
‘I went to France in the summer because I needed to get away, to get my head straight. I was getting a bit frustrated how things were going. I am hugely thankful for Mrs Prowting for keeping the faith.’
Popham only rode his first winner of the season on November 5 but with success at Hexham on Friday, he has now had three in his last five rides.
‘A few weeks ago, riding in the Paddy Power Gold Cup felt a millions miles away,’ he said. ‘You are thinking, “Jesus, is this ever going to happen?” I can’t believe it has.’