TWO-time Grand National winning rider Leighton Aspell is to retire.
The 43-year-old will hang up the saddle after his two rides at Fontwell on Sunday.
The Irishman – who rode over 900 winners – was best known for his partnership with Many Clouds after the pair triumphed in the 2015 Grand National at Aintree.
It followed on from his 2014 win in the same race, this time on Pineau de Re for Dr Richard Newland.
He announced the decision at Kempton on Saturday and will hope to bow out on a high at Fontwell where he partners Ventura Dragon and Itsnotwhatyouthink.
Aspell said: “I’m 43 going on 44 and I’ve been a very lucky boy. I’ve had a great career and a great innings, it’s been a great journey.
“Many Clouds was by far the highlight of my career. I just had a great time with the horse, Oliver Sherwood and of course Trevor Hemmings. Aintree was simply a special day.
“I’m going to have a of time off and then make some plans. I already do some pre-training but I’m interested in lots of things like race reading and analysis.”
Four time Champion Jockey Richard Johnson said: “Like me Leighton has been riding for a long time and he’s always tough to come up against.
“You always knew if you were following one of his you were in a good place.
“It’s a shame to lose such a good friend from the weighing room but he’s had a brilliant career and has lots to be very proud of.”
