Being AP

"Being AP" is a 2015 sports documentary film focused on the poignant, inspiring, and gripping story of legendary jockey, Tony McCoy – affectionately known as AP. This documentary, directed by Anthony Wonke, presents an intimate and uncensored portrayal of McCoy as he navigates the precipice of his retirement, after enduring a career that spanned over two decades in the challenging and dangerous world of horse racing. Wonke's lens captures the rawness of the sport, the essence of one of its greatest champions, and the emotional turbulence that comes when one chapter of life draws to a close to usher in the next.

Anthony Peter McCoy is an iconic figure in horse racing, known for his unrivaled dominance and competitiveness in the sports. He made history by winning more than 4,300 races and became the Champion Jockey a record-breaking 20 consecutive times – an extraordinary achievement in the physically tolling and high-risk sport. "Being AP" delves into this array of accomplishments but also pulls back the curtain to reveal the human side of the champion. It takes the audience beyond the sparkling track records, into the day-to-day experiences, struggles, and motivations that formed the bedrock of AP’s monumental success.

The documentary opens at the start of McCoy's final season in 2015, setting the stage for a heartfelt journey through the climactic end of an illustrious career. It offers a rare look at Tony’s rigorous training routine, the intensity of racing, the unyielding physical toll, and the indomitable spirit that characterized his approach to the sport. Tony’s character is examined with piercing honesty as he plunges headfirst to tackle challenges, risks, and injuries with a fervor that’s both captivating and inspiring.

"Being AP" is not just a tribute to McCoy’s professional toil and triumphs, but it also candidly explores his personal life. The audience is introduced to his loving wife, Chanelle, who, while supportive of AP’s career, anxiously looks forward to a less hazardous life post-retirement for the sake of their family. The bond between them provides a beautifully touching and real counterbalance to the high-adrenaline action that encapsulates AP's career. Their relationship is a showcase of support, patience, understanding, and the realistic apprehensions that accompany being a part of a partner's relentless pursuit of excellence.

The dialogue between personal and professional life continues as the film navigates the difficult subject of retirement. It paints an honest image of a man grappling with the end of a career that defined him for so long. The impending retirement is marked not with sorrow, but rather with a determination to end on a high and the anticipation of what comes next. The struggle is palpable as AP comes to terms with the fact that his racing career is drawing to an end. Yet, at the same time, the sense of relief that accompanies this satisfaction is also evident as he looks forward to a safe and quiet life with his family.

The greatness of "Being AP" lies in its ability to represent Tony McCoy as a complex and relatable individual, rather than a larger-than-life sports figure. It fits together pieces of his intense drive to win, fearlessness in the face of danger, unyielding physical sacrifice, profound love for his family, and the inevitable vulnerability associated with retirement. By doing so, the film presents a strikingly real portrait of a man who, while exceptional in his professional life, is tasked with the universal challenge of boldly confronting change.

Profoundly moving and candid, "Being AP" is a cinematic homage to one of the most exceptional jockeys of our time. However, it transcends the sporting landscape to weave an emotional tale of personal evolution, perseverance, and the inherent human struggle with change. It is a must-watch for all sports enthusiasts, but also for anyone who enjoys a raw, sincere, and compelling exploration of human determination and resilience.