Tony McCoy has admitted that he thought he was going to ride to victory in the Grand National at Aintree after coming off the penultimate fence in second place.
The 19-time champion jockey, who has announced that he will retire this year, was just behind eventual winner Many Clouds on Shutthefrontdoor yesterday, but the horse faded in the final stages, finishing fifth.
The Northern Irishman told BBC Radio 5 live: "I genuinely thought I was going to win. I was travelling well, he seemed a safe jumper. I did think up until four out that the dream was on.
"I got a great ride off him. He ran a fantastic race and gave us a thrill for a long time. I'm gutted. I really enjoyed myself.
"There's nothing like the Grand National for the thrill and the buzz if you actually think you're going to win, there's no feeling like it. Sadly it didn't happen. I would love another go but that's not going to happen either."
McCoy has ridden the Grand National 20 times during his career, with his only win coming on Don't Push It in 2010.
Sian Cowper
