Jim Culloty, Best Mate's jockey, has shocked racing by quitting for health reasons. The Irishman, who partnered the horse to three consecutive Cheltenham Gold Cup triumphs, also won the 2002 Grand National on Bindaree. He is the first rider to be forced to retire from all four major British races due to injury. Culloty was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2004 and has been unable to ride since then. The 37-year-old said he was retiring because of the disease which affects the brain and spinal cord and causes problems with vision, movement, sensation, and speech. "I've had a great career and achieved a lot," he said. "But I need to start looking after myself now." Best Mate, who was trained by David O'Brien at Ballymena, County Antrim, received help from several riders during his successful career, which began in 1995 when he finished third in his debut race. In 1996 he won two of three starts before winning the Gold Cup on his first attempt. He went on to claim another Gold Cup in 1998 and the Cheltenham Festival in 1999. His other victories included the King George VI Chase, the Scottish Classic Trial, and the Welsh National. Best Mate retired after finishing fourth in the 2005 Grand National behind Sea Lord, Moonlight Cloud, and Davison.