Post by Taxigirl on Oct 15, 2003 16:07:46 GMT
A 7ft 7in basketball legend is set to become the world's tallest jockey.
Manute Bol, who starred in the NBA for 11 seasons, plans to make his debut on Saturday - providing they can find a horse big enough for him.
Bol is taking on the challenge to raise money for charity.
A spokesman for the Hoosier Park racecourse in Indianapolis confirmed the news - although it is not clear whether the ride will be a one-off.
One thing's for sure - it's not the first time Bol has tried his hand at another sport.
The 40-year-old once played ice hockey for minor league team Indianapolis Ice and also took on - and beat - gridiron giant William "The Refrigerator" Perry in a boxing match.
All of his forays have raised money for child victims of civil war in his native Sudan, but the latest venture has to be the most bizarre.
Bol, who played for Washington Bullets, Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat in the NBA, will certainly be easy to spot for punters.
His silks measure 7ft from cuff to cuff, he takes size 20 shoes and he'll be head, shoulders and everything else above his rivals.
Wonder what 5ft 9ins racing icon Lester Piggott - nicknamed "The Longfellow" in his hey-day - would make of it all.