Toby McCain-Mitchell, grandson of the renowned racehorse trainer Ginger McCain, is gearing up for his debut in the prestigious Grand National. At the age of 24, Toby, who recently turned professional, will carry a lock of Red Rum’s hair in his riding gloves as a token of good luck. Red Rum, a legendary horse trained by his grandfather Ginger McCain, clinched victory in the Grand National three times in 1973, 1974, and 1977, a record yet to be equaled.
The tradition of embedding a strand of Red Rum’s mane in the bridle of horses from the family has been upheld by Toby’s mother, Joanne, since the horse’s demise in 1995. Toby McCain-Mitchell shared that the presence of Red Rum’s mane in their gear is believed to bring good fortune, considering the horse’s historic success over the Grand National course.
Reflecting on his family’s longstanding connection with the event, Toby expressed his mother’s pride and excitement but anticipated a relatively low-key affair for the family on the big day. While acknowledging the significance of the Grand National to his family, Toby highlighted that his mother’s attention might be elsewhere during the race.
Despite his grandfather’s remarkable achievements in the Grand National, Toby’s memories of Ginger McCain mostly revolve around their interactions outside of the racetrack. Recalling moments of mischief and playfulness in Donald’s yard, Toby fondly reminisced about his childhood experiences with his siblings and cousins.
With the McCain family’s extensive history and influence in the Grand National, Toby McCain-Mitchell is poised to forge his own path in the competition. Riding Top Of The Bill, a 10-year-old gelding trained by Nigel and Willy Twiston-Davies, Toby aims to leave his mark on the Randox Grand National history.
While the odds may not be in their favor at 125-1, following impressive performances this season, including a notable second place in the Grand National Trial at Haydock Park, Toby McCain-Mitchell and Top Of The Bill are prepared to defy expectations and make a statement at the upcoming Grand National event.
