McCoy fan club start gamble on their man

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The company cut him to 5-1 second favourite behind Ruby Walsh (Evens) to gain most winners at the four-day meeting. Tens of thousands of pounds are said to have poured on the 12-time champion after the expected confirmation that he was fit to return to race riding.

These bets included some from 'big hitters', according to spokesman David Williams.

McCoy, who is retained by JP McManus, has his first ride since fracturing two vertebrae in his back in a fall at Warwick on January 12 when he partners Jonjo O'Neill's Rapid Increase in the opener at Sandown this afternoon. He also partners Tarlac in the Imperial Cup and is booked for two rides at Hereford tomorrow.

After an intensive rehabilitation, McCoy hoped to return to action early this week. But the BHA insisted on clearance from an independent neurosurgeon which he received on Thursday evening. His rides next week include favourites Aigle D'Or (Ballymore Properties Novices' Hurdle) and Franchoek (Triumph Hurdle).

Williams added: 'McCoy is the pied piper of punters and they still dance to his tune.'

But that dance has not always been in step. Despite his dominance, McCoy, who has ridden 15 Festival winners, hasn't been crowned top Festival rider since 1998.