Racing: McCoy hospitalised after fall

CHAMPION jumps jockey Tony McCoy was kept in hospital last night for observation following a fall at Cheltenham.

McCoy was partnering the Nicky Henderson-trained Quantitativeeasing in the Barbury International Horse Trials Handicap Hurdle when the gelding stumbled at the second flight, throwing McCoy into the air. While he was conscious after the fall, he had to be stretchered off the track and was given oxygen on his way to the medical room by ambulance.

Following assessment at the track, McCoy was taken to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital and spent the night there when it is then expected he will be released today. The lucrative Punchestown Festival takes place in Ireland next week where McCoy could expect to ride several well fancied horses for his boss, JP McManus.

• Richard Hannon’s Toronado enhanced his Classic claims in some style as he turned in an impressive display in the Novae Bloodstock Insurance Craven Stakes at Newmarket. Sent off the 8-11 favourite to give weight and a beating to three talented opponents, the unbeaten son of High Chaparral cruised to a four length victory in the hands of Richard Hughes.