AP'S PAIN
AP McCoy breaks down in tears and has to be comforted live on TV as he gives health update on jockey pal Graham Lee
Irish star Lee suffered spinal damage after horror fall at Newcastle Racecourse earlier this month
THIS is the emotional moment AP McCoy breaks down in tears while giving a health update on jockey pal Graham Lee.
The iconic racing star had to be comforted on live TV after Lee suffered a horror fall at Newcastle Racecourse earlier this month.
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The 47-year-old was rushed to intensive care after being unseated as his horse Ben Macdui left the stalls.
And on Friday his family issued a statement revealing the Irishman has suffered damage to his spinal cord.
SunSport exclusively revealed close mate McCoy made a mad 3am dash to get Lee’s daughter to his bedside at Newcastle Royal Infirmary.
But emotions got the better of the legendary jockey as he gave an update on Lee’s health on live TV.
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McCoy was part of ITV's punditry team from Cheltenham on Saturday.
And as he discussed Lee's horrific fall, he was forced to fight back the tears while being comforted by his fellow pundits.
He said: "It's been the most horrendous week.
"One little positive thing would be that Ritchie McGrath and his wife Becky FaceTimed me with Graham last night... but when I say the most horrendous week I really mean that."
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McCoy struggled to continue speaking as he became emotional, with fellow legendary jockey Ruby Walsh stepping in with a comment.
But McCoy was eventually able to continue: "He had an operation to stabilise his fractures on Wednesday. There is a lot of swelling and bruising around the spinal chord - it's going to be a long road, you know.
"It is a long road and it'll be a long road for Becky and the family. We never know in the world where things can go, and what medicine is bringing us.
"With a bit of luck God can be good, and I think everyone would like him to be good right now."
Fans reacted with sympathy on social media.
One said: "Pure class from Ruby Walsh. Can see AP is struggling and steps in so he can take a moment. My thoughts are with Graham Lee, his family & his friends."
Another declared: "The terrible incident has almost broke the hardest sportsman of all time. I’ve never seen AP McCoy so emotional. Thoughts and prayers to everyone affected."
One added: "I think I speak for the whole racing community when I say we feel AP McCoy's emotions, and we stand with him, Graham and Graham's family, during this difficult time. Wishing nothing but the best."
Meanwhile, over £140,000 has been raised thanks to a JustGiving fundraiser put together by Lee's daughter Amy, as well as the Injured Jockeys Fund.
McCoy became president of the IJF in 2016, a year after he brought the curtain down on his illustrious career.
The Injured Jockeys Fund provides support for jockeys past and present who are injured, unable to ride or generally in need.
Speaking earlier this week, McCoy said: "Like everyone in racing, we at the IJF are all devastated with the news of the injuries that Graham Lee sustained from his horrific fall.
"All our thoughts are with Graham, his wife Becky, and their family.
"As bad as Graham's injuries are, please do rest assured that our team at the IJF will look after his needs to assist him in his recovery and predicament for as long as it takes.
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"Whatever help he and his family need, we will be there to provide it."
To donate to the JustGiving page click .
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