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Dan Sheridan/INPHO
A Legend Departs

For a second, AP McCoy's final Cheltenham race looked set for a fairytale finish

Favourite Ned Buntline went down fighting in AP McCoy’s last-ever ride at the Cheltenham Festival.

IT BORE ALL the hallmarks of a typical AP McCoy finish.

Ridden into a promising position, Ned Buntline (near side) loomed large as the leaders approached the last in the Grand Annual Handicap Chase — McCoy’s final race at the Cheltenham Festival, and one which has been renamed in his honour.

On the jump, McCoy briefly headed Croco Bay and Turn Over Sivola to move into second place and for the dreamers in attendance, the 19-time champion jockey looked set to reel in the leader Next Sensation on his final charge up the Cheltenham hill.

It wasn’t to be as Next Sensation pulled away to win at 16/1 while Ned Buntline could only manage fourth.

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“It’s amazing,” McCoy said as he received a warm ovation from the Gold Cup day crowd in the paddock. ”I feel a bit guilty as Next Sensation won the race.

“It’s a very emotional thing. It’s very special, and something I really appreciate.

“This is something I’m really going to miss.”

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