Russell bows out of title race

Racing : Davy Russell's valiant challenge for the jump jockeys' title ended today after the rider was forced to give up his …

Racing: Davy Russell's valiant challenge for the jump jockeys' title ended today after the rider was forced to give up his four booked rides at Punchestown.

Russell went into the fourth day of the Festival meeting seven behind Ruby Walsh but stood himself down before his first ride.

Walsh went on to make it an eight-winner gap with victory on Scotsirish in the Betfair.com Novice Handicap in a season which ends tomorrow.

Turf Club Medical Officer Adrian McGoldrick said: "He was feeling unwell last night and was no better this morning, so he decided not to ride today. He has gone to see his own doctor, but it is only a tummy bug and he will be riding here tomorrow."