McCoy closes in on 3,000th win

Tony McCoy edged a little closer to his 3,000th career success over jumps after a thrilling victory aboard his only ride of the day.

The 13-times champion jockey made the trip to Wincanton to partner Stradbrook in the Bruton Handicap Hurdle and was in front coming to the last flight.

Oiseau De Nuit and Tender Falcon emerged from the pack to make a real battle of it but McCoy's mount, racing in the middle of the trio, dug deep to narrowly prevail in a photo finish.

McCoy is now within two of the magical figure on the 2,998 mark.

McCoy was seen at his best aboard the 3-1 favourite who just gained the day by two noses.

He said: "I don't think he really got up the hill at Cheltenham last time and he really battled.

"He was in front and then was headed and I'd swear he only got his head back in front on the line."

McCoy added: "I couldn't get another ride (today) and that is being honest.

"We are having to decide where I go on Saturday, Doncaster or Sandown, and at the moment I'm doing my best to pick between one ride at each and I'll have to see whether I can get something at either meeting to go along with them.

"At the moment all I've got is Clew Bay Cove at Doncaster or Good Moment at Sandown because there will be so few runners at Sandown, it is not by choice.

"All the people that are riding today are riding for their retained stables so I've no divine right to be riding their horses."