12-time Irish champion jockey Ruby Walsh has retired from horse racing with immediate effect.
Walsh retired immediately after winning the Gold Cup at Punchestown this afternoon.
“That’s it. I’m done. I’m finished," said Ruby after the race.
“You’ll never see me on a horse again. That’s it. I’m done," repeated Ruby after general disbelief.
His father, trainer Ted Walsh, was overcome by emotion at the end of the race, while Ruby was hugged and congratulated by his wife and children.
Walsh said of Kemboy after the race: "He jumped really well. He quickened, quickened and quickened - he has pace and stamina and has a real knack of jumping."
Ruby began an incredible career with a prodigious Grand National win at the first attempt in 2000, aboard Papillon - his father's horse.
He went on to form a bond with trainer Paul Nicholls, and finishes his career with 59 winners at Cheltenham Festival - including Gold Cup wins on Kauto Star for Willie Mullins.
Walsh also won five Champion Hurdle gongs, on Hurricane Fly (twice), Faugheen and Annie Power.
More to follow...
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
