Sir Anthony to become president of Injured Jockeys Fund

AP 'relishing the role'

THE recently knighted Sir Anthony McCoy is to be the new president of the Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF), the charity has announced.

The outgoing president, broadcaster and former jockey John Francome will swap roles with Sir Anthony, who is currently vice patron of the fund which provides support, financial or otherwise, to past and present jockeys who are injured, unable to ride or generally in need.

AP McCoy said: “The Injured Jockeys Fund’s work is so important to racing. Now I have retired I am really enthusiastic about taking on the role, as well as honoured to be asked, and just hope that I can add something to the fantastic work the fund does in helping injured jockeys and their families.”

Mr Francome said: “I have very much enjoyed my time as president since succeeding Lord Oaksey but when the opportunity arose for AP to take over it seemed sensible.

“It is important to keep younger people involved in the decision making and he will be much more in touch with today’s jockeys.”

Chief executive officer of the IJF, Lisa Hancock, “We couldn’t be happier that Sir AP McCoy is to take up the role.

“His contribution to racing has been so significant already and the whole team is looking forward to working with him.

“John has done a brilliant job as president since Lord Oaksey passed away and it was his idea that AP should now take over and spearhead the fund’s next 50 years.”