Paul Townend became a punters' pal when he made an incredible recovery riding a horse tipped for the 2023 Cheltenham Festival.
The jockey clung on to Allegorie De Vassy, the 1-8 favourite for a race at Thurles, after she jumped awkwardly at the very first fence. Momentum threw Townend up high in the saddle and his arms were around the front runner's neck when he landed.
But the sportsman refused to let gravity take over following the blip in Sunday's Grade 2 Coolmore N.H. Sires Mogul Irish EBF Mares Novice Chase. With just one of his feet in a stirrup, Townend used amazing strength to push himself back into position.
