Grandson of Red Rum Trainer to Ride in Grand National with Family Keepsake

Toby McCain-Mitchell, a 24-year-old jockey, is set to make his debut in the Grand National steeplechase on Saturday at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool. He will ride Top Of The Bill, a horse trained by Nigel and Willy Twiston-Davies with odds of 125-1. McCain-Mitchell is the grandson of Ginger McCain, who trained Red Rum to victories in the Grand National in 1973, 1974, and 1977.

His uncle, Donald McCain, son of Ginger McCain, trained Ballabriggs, which won the Grand National in 2011. The McCain family has a history of involvement in the race at Aintree. McCain-Mitchell aims to continue this legacy in the third generation.

McCain-Mitchell plans to place a lock of Red Rum's hair inside his gloves during the race.

The hair was preserved by his mother, Joanne, after Red Rum's death in 1995. Strands from Red Rum's mane have been incorporated into the bridles of horses ridden by family members in past Grand National attempts. This practice has been maintained for horses connected to the McCain family when competing at Aintree.

Red Rum, known for its three Grand National wins, remains associated with the course's challenging fences from the 1970s. The keepsake serves as a sentimental link to the family's racing history.

described the item as a good luck charm.

“I'll put a lock I have in my gloves on Saturday," he said. "It's a bit silly but it's just for good luck.”

He noted Red Rum's success over Aintree's obstacles, stating, "He used to do well over them. " The Randox Grand National Festival spans three days, beginning today and culminating in the main Grand National race on Saturday. The event draws participants and spectators to Aintree, where the 4-mile, 2-furlong course includes 30 fences.

Outcomes of individual races, including McCain-Mitchell's participation, depend on performance during the competition.