Donald McCain defends Aintree following deaths in the Grand National | Sport | The Guardian Donald McCain defends Aintree following deaths in the Grand National • The trainer of Ballabriggs says the course got it right • 'Nobody cares more about the horses than we do' The Grand National winner, Ballabriggs, poses with his trainer Donald McCain, right, and Donald's father, Ginger. Photograph: Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images Sunday 10 April 2011 15.44 EDT First published on Sunday 10 April 2011 15.44 EDT Close This article is 5 years old Donald McCain, whose family has been woven into the story of the Grand National since the days of Red Rum, launched a robust defence of the race as he reflected on the victory of his chaser Ballabriggs in Saturday's race, which also resulted in the death of two horses. At four-and-a-half miles the National has always been the longest and most demanding race of the season and the latest renewal also took place on a warm afternoon in Liverpool. Nineteen of the 40 starters managed to complete the course and all were liberally drenched with cold water afterwards to reduce their body temperature.

Ballabriggs, meanwhile, was briefly given oxygen after the race, though only as a precaution to speed recovery from his exertions. McCain said yesterday that he had complete confidence in the safety measures in place at Aintree and that critics of the National failed to understand that racing can never be entirely without risk. "Ballabriggs was tired this morning but he's grand, he just had one small little cut on a hind leg and that's it," McCain said. "It's unfortunate that in sport, accidents and injuries happen. Horses get killed in hurdle races and on the Flat too but it's an awful lot better life for a horse than any other [animal]. They're treated like royalty and nobody's more upset when something happens than we are. "Every horse deserves a chance to be a great horse. There's no great joy for horses being stuck in fields and no great pleasure in it. If a horse doesn't want to jump around Aintree, it won't. "I don't know what they think of people involved in the job but it matters more to us than to anybody that things are done right with the horses. I don't think Aintree could ever be accused of not doing things right.

They do a fantastic job with everything that they do. They have everybody there to do the right things at the right time." McCain's father, Ginger, trained Red Rum to win the National three times in the 1970s, and took it again in 2004 with Amberleigh House. Now his son, too, has won a National and the race will continue to be the most important target of the year at his yard near Malpas in Cheshire. "You can't do it without the horses and [the owner] Mr [Trevor] Hemmings sent me a horse that has always looked like an Aintree horse," McCain said. "Aintree has always been a big part of our lives, we've grown up with it. There was a party [at home] the night before the National every year and the whole year really revolved around it. You can become a bit obsessed with Cheltenham but, when you turn up at Aintree, there's no place like it. "We train a certain way. We try to get horses to keep improving and we're not overly hard on them.

Maybe we've just been lucky but it's not rocket science, you've got to try to get a horse to peak on that one day and it's all about that one day. "You avoid places that will stop you get to that peak, like Cheltenham [in March]. The main rule [from my father] was always that you don't take an Aintree horse to Cheltenham, and that's one that I've always tried to go along with." Winning the National means that McCain has achieved his greatest ambition at a very early stage of his training career but he added that his list of remaining targets does not include the trainers' championship. "Not really, no," McCain said. "I'd love to stay where we are now, if that makes any sense. I don't want a lot more horses, we've got about 100 and I don't really want to go beyond that at the moment. "Paul [Nicholls, the current champion trainer] and Nicky Henderson have a lot more horses, and it's just not really me at the moment so we'll just stick at what we're doing.

"We've got a really good bunch of owners, a really good bunch of staff and it just seems to be working." Aintree to review safety after two horses died following race in sweltering heat and over firmer ground than usual Published: 10 Apr 2011 Winning trainer Donald McCain defends the Grand National - BBC Sport BBC Sport Winning trainer Donald McCain defends the Grand National By Cornelius Lysaght From the section Horse Racing Share this page Read more about sharing. Donald McCain's Ballabriggs won the Grand National at Aintree in 2011 Donald McCain has mounted a spirited defence of the Grand National after making plans for four entries in 2012. Protests followed when two runners died in 2011, but McCain, who trained Ballabriggs to victory, rejected the criticisms of "Once a year TV viewers". "What happened wasn't Aintree's fault.

In Dooney's Gate 's case, it could have taken place on any course at any time." I would like to give him one or two runs before going back there, and he'll tell me when he's ready Donald McCain McCain plans to enter Fabalu, Weird Al and Wymott, as well as the defending champion Ballabriggs on 14 April. Ballabriggs, owned by businessman Trevor Hemmings and now 11 years old, has not raced since his two-and-a-quarter length defeat of Oscar Time. But McCain, whose father Ginger died in September, having won a record-equalling four Grand Nationals, most famously his three with the great Red Rum, indicated that his horse is well on target. "His whole season is about getting him back to Aintree fit and well," said McCain, trainer of 106 horses at his base at Cholmondeley, Cheshire. "He's started fast work this week and has done plenty of cantering.

I would like to give him one or two runs before going back there, and he'll tell me when he's ready." McCain family Grand National winners 2011 - Ballabriggs 1974 - Red Rum 1973 - Red Rum Reflecting on last year's success, when Ballabriggs' own welfare came under scrutiny, McCain added: "I wish once-a-year TV viewers had been able to come here to see him the next day. He looked a million dollars, outstanding, out on the lawn and not a scratch on him. "Of course he was tired - a marathon runner is tired after giving their all as he did - but he's fit and trained to do that, and was fine. We took the oxygen afterwards because it was offered, but it wasn't worth a carrot." This year's field will face the usual number of obstacles, but three of them have undergone modification following last season's dramatic running. McCain backs the decision to make the changes but is unsure what difference they will make. "Credit to Aintree for doing something which they think is best for the future of the race," he said. "But, with horses racing, there will always be accidents whatever they do.

Ginger McCain won the National with Red Rum and Amberleigh House "Hopefully we can now draw a line in the sand, and say this is the Grand National and leave it alone from now on." Donald will be there with his family at Aintree on the first day of the Grand National Festival in April to see a one and half times life-sized bust of his late father unveiled. The bronze statue of the Ginger McCain, commissioned by the racecourse to celebrate the man who trained not only Red Rum but 2004 winner Amberleigh House , will be placed on the mound overlooking the parade ring at Aintree. "When Aintree discussed the idea with us, we were thrilled that they had chosen to commemorate Dad's achievements with a bronze portrait bust," said McCain Jnr.

"It is fitting that it will be sited at Aintree, a place he held dear to his heart." Share this page GRAND NATIONAL 2011: Bookmakers dodge a bullet despite McCain factor at Aintree | Daily Mail Online Bookmakers dodge a bullet despite McCain factor at Aintree By Sportsmail Reporter Updated: 14:32 EST, 9 April 2011 comments Bookmakers welcomed the victory of Ballabriggs in the John Smith's Grand National - despite the winner being trained by Donald McCain, son of the legendary Ginger. The 10-year-old had been prominent in ante-post lists all year and was eventually sent off at 14-1, coming home two and a quarter lengths ahead of Oscar Time. McCain magic: Donald McCain celebrates with the trophy... and the bookies were smiling too David Williams of Ladbrokes said: 'We never thought we'd be cheering a McCain-trained winner at Aintree, but we've absolutely no complaints. It was absolutely fine. 'The sun shone on Aintree and we saw our busiest day of trading in the history of the race.

'It doesn't just retain its magic, the Grand National goes from strength to strength.' Those comments were echoed by Kate Miller of William Hill, who said: 'We'll take that. The McCain name is synonymous with the Grand National, and it should have been a caning, but we're OK. Taking a tumble: Barry Geraghty on his way down with Or Noir De Somoza (6) 'We haven't won enough to bail out Portugal, but it won't be a sleepless night in the Hills offices.' Coral were left making similar noises. 'Thanks to Red Rum and Ginger, the McCain name is always popular at Grand National time, and plenty of punters cheered Ballabriggs home across the UK,' said Coral's David Stevens. 'However, a repeat win for AP McCoy and Don't Push It would have been far more costly, so although last year's winner was placed, along with the well-backed Oscar Time, we're certainly not complaining about this year's result.' Over and out: Quolibet comes down at the the 11th fence Paddy Power were pleased that 15-2 favourite The Midnight Club was beaten.

'We won on the race and we're certainly wiping our brows that The Midnight Club didn't prevail. We would have paid out almost £1.25million if Ruby Walsh had guided him home,' said Power. Matt Doyle of Sky Bet reported plenty of each-way money was landed on Oscar Time and Don't Push It. 'Turnover has gone through the roof, up 30% on previous Nationals, and it was a fair result on the winner. 'However, the places could have been better with Oscar Time and Don't Push It very well backed each-way,' he said. Aintree hero: Ballabriggs and Jason Maguire cross the line Not all bookmakers were crowing though, as Victor Chandler were made to pay by offering each-way terms down to sixth place - The Midnight Club. 'The favourite finishing sixth cost us a small fortune but it was a great race and turnover went through the roof as a result of our offer,' said VC's Charlie McCann.

'It is too early to say how we have fared in the outright and ante-post markets, but The Midnight Club finishing sixth was the worst result imaginable.' BBC Sport - Horse Racing - Grand National 2011 as it happened Printable version Grand National 2011 as it happened To get involved, e-mail racing@bbc.co.uk (with 'For Oliver Brett' in the subject), use Twitter with #bbcgrandnational in your tweet or text on 81111 with "RACING" as the first word. (Not all comments can be used. Messages charged at your standard operator rate) By Oliver Brett 1714: Thanks for all your input and enjoy the rest of the sporting weekend, with the golf at Augusta obviously a big highlight. I close with the news that Irish trainer Paul Nolan has won the 1700 race on Far Away So Close, and I hope you enjoyed our coverage. Congratulations to the McCain team and Ballabriggs, and condolences to the yards of Paul Nicholls and Willie Mullins. They trained the two horses who died.

BBC1's Mick Fitzgerald: "I think Jason Maguire is riding really well at the moment and has real potential to be a possible champion jockey of the future. The owner Trevor Hemmings is the nicest man you'll ever meet, just as good in defeat as he is in victory. BBC1 betting expert Gary Wiltshire: "I would say it was a good result for the bookies, with Ruby Walsh out of the places as well. But there was certainly a big cheer from round here when Ballabriggs won." 1701: Confirmation now that Ornais and Dooneys Gate did suffer fatal falls in today's race. Our thoughts go out to the connections of those horses. 1659: As well as being a great story for the McCains, there's a narrative behind jockey Jason Maguire's success. He had to pass the doctor on Friday after a bad fall 24 hours earlier and was in danger of missing the ride. Maguire could have ridden the winner, Silver Birch, in the 2007 renewal but stayed loyal to McCain's Idle Talk and might have thought his chance of glory had gone.

1650: In answer to various requests, we are attepting to find out what happened to the two most serious fallers and their jockeys. We are not ignoring the issue, but don't want to assume anything until fully aware of the facts. E-mail from James Hickey: "Jason Maguire just swore on national TV after winning the Grand National - surely that's a two-match ban?!" I think they'll let me off as there's a big difference in the circumstances! 1647: Some of the younger ones around probably don't remember Red Rum. He won this race three times in the 1970s for trainer Ginger McCain, who came back in 2004 to win it one last time with Amberleigh House. The legend continues now with Ginger's son Donald winning the race for himself. 1642: There will be plenty of hard-luck stories, and here's Ruby Walsh (The Midnight Club): "I made a bad mistake at the first ditch, he changed his mind at the last minute and he got very careful with his jumping after that.

Patrick Mullins had a very bad fall (on Dooneys Gate), I hope he's OK." 1638: Becher's and one other fence were bypased on the second circuit while injured horses were attended to. Ballabriggs's lad says the horse had to be led through with the jockey off his back simply to ensure they could get as much water into the animal as quickly as possible, but he's reported to be fine now. From thomasmurphy33: "You just can't beat the National. Not good to see fences being bypassed for obvious reasons but can't take away from it." Winning trainer Donald McCain: "We always genuinely thought he might be an Aintree horse. Things have gone so smoothly all year, he's a joy to deal with." 1635: With about a circuit to go, Ballabriggs, who is trained by Donald McCain (Ginger's son - he was Red Rum's trainer), already looked by far the most comfortable horse in the race.

Winning jockey Jason Maguire says: "He was jumping fence-to-fence, I was just trying to get him over the jumps, wanted to keep him in the top 10, but fair play to Donald, who's done a wonderful job." RESULT - 1615 John Smith's Grand National Steeplechase 1. Ballabriggs (Jason Maguire) 14-1 2. Oscar Time (Sam Waley-Cohen) 14-1 3. Don't Push It (Tony McCoy) 9-1 4. State Of Play (Paul Moloney) 28-1 5. Niche Market (Harry Skelton) 16-1 1628: Don't Push It was third, checking for fourth and fifth. 1627: Oscar Time, with Sam Waley-Cohen riding, did his best to reel in the leader, but ended up a few lengths behind. 1627: Ballabriggs wins the Grand National! Jason Maguire the winning jockey for Donald McCain.

1627: Slight error from Oscar Time two out, Ballabriggs still leads with Don't Push It struggling under top weight at The Elbow. 1626: What A Friend is pulled up as they approach the last two fences. 1625: Ballabriggs and Santa's Son make mistakes, but Ballabriggs recovers. Oscar Time has been going very well for a while. 1624: Ballabriggs is galloping and jumping superbly with Killyglen just behind and Niche Market also firmly in contention. 1623: We have a new leader, who is Ballabriggs. 1622: Quinz is pulled up just before The Chair. Don't Push It is still there and going nicely. 1622: Santa's Son is jumping beautifully with Grand Slam Hero the latest faller. 1621: Majestic Concorde is going very nicely alongside Santa's Son in the lead. 1620: Santa's Son, one of the big outsiders, leads over The Canal Turn, with Hello Bud jumping well. Tidal Bay unseats his rider.

1619: Calgary Bay and Ornais both fall at the fourth. Killyglen is well up there, The Midnight Club is in midfield. Dooneys Gate goes at Becher's among others. 1618: That's Rhythm falls at the first, Becauseicouldntsee goes at the second. 1618: They're off. 1617: The starter is on his roster, and he's been urging the jockeys not to charge before the tapes are up. BBC Sport's Frank Keogh on Twitter: "Pick of the parade ring for me inc Bluesea Cracker, Niche Market, Skippers Brig, Oscar Time." 1615: Can't see anything sweating up, or looking like they don't want to be there. West End Rocker is pulling at his bit a little but that won't be a concern. Andrew McNamara has his boots out of his irons to keep as much weight of Bluesea Cracker's back as possible. Looks like we'll start a bit a late. Very odd white bridle on Golden Kite. 1611: Parading in front of the stands before the canter to the start.

Majestic Concorde looks tiny, but his trainer Dermot Weld is a name to respect. Big Fella Thanks looks quite lively, will he stay? The Midnight Club, a light, almost chestnut colour, looks very comfortable and happy to be there. Many of these horses have been quite spectacularly well turned out. Great credit to all the lads and lasses who work silly hours for little money. From Hugh_Wilson: "I'm hoping one of my nine comes in... Grand Slam hero at 66/1 e/w , come on!" Fair enough to have more than one horse, but nine? 1606: Richard Dunwoody reckons What A Friend is the "pick of the paddock" but tips Niche Market to win. 1605: Legendary owner JP McManus, who finally landed this race last year, is asked to comment on some of the horses he doesn't own: "Tidal Bay, if he adopts well to this course, he could be well handicapped." 1603: Chief Dan George is on his toes, prancing about in the parade ring.

Clare Balding has got hold of Ged Mason, who shares ownership of What A Friend with Sir Alex Ferguson: "He is genuine, all the press say he's a bit funny with his head-carriage. I'm just about to text Sir Alex, United are winning at the moment so it's going our way." 1600: With 15 minutes to go until the start, the 40 jockeys pose for the famous pre-race photograph. Plenty of smiles, not too much nerves, though Tony McCoy's piercing focus stands out. 1559: Ballabriggs is "looking well - you can see the stencil mark on his hind-quarters," says Richard Dunwoody. He reckons Don't Push It "looks fit". I'll add this: McCoy's mount looks completely chilled out, and that will help him. In this heat you don't want your horse to get too anxious at the start. From touchlinetv: "Bet placed. Money on Oscar Time, go for it Sam Waley-Cohen.

Fab build up as ever by #bbcgrandnational - always a spectacle." Comply or Die's jockey Timmy Murphy: "He's in great form, got a great weight, loves the ground and he comes to life round here." 1550: On course, The Midnight Club is right down to 15-2. "It's the jungle, the betting jungle," says Gary Wiltshire. He notes that Comply Or Die has been well backed, and so it has! Right in to 25-1. From jesseddie: "The British Women's rowing team are going to huddle around a laptop to watch online whilst on training camp in Italy! 1547: We haven't mentioned Quinz much, but this is a winner of the Racing Post who is well treated in the weights and has a fine jockey in the shape of Richard Johnson. The horse I didn't back after telling everyone how good it was is Ballabriggs, for the McCain team. I now almost want something to beat it! From lewiswaltoncent: "Can you imagine if they handicapped Usain Bolt?

Gave him a man purse and a couple of kilos to carry while he did it!" 1543: Comply Or Die, who won the race in 2008, is being trailed by a BBC crew. He hasn't got the blinkers on yet. Adrian Maguire, once known as a top-class jockey, is putting in some last-minute work on Golden Kite. He looks thrilled to be here with his first National entry. 1540: It's high time to check the latest market moves for the Grand National which is, of course, our next race. The Midnight Club looks like a cosy favourite, with Silver By Nature about 12-1 on the betting exchanges following plenty of big bets today. Don't Push It is about 14-1 with Oscar Time, What A Friend and Quinz also attracting consistent support. 1535: Nice win for Paul Gallagher on the Howard Johnson eight-year-old. The horse just kept on fighting, beating off the challengers one by one. Paul's had a good week and partners Royal Rosa in the big one. RESULT - 1525 John Smith's Handicap Steeplechase 1.

Prince De Beauchene (Paul Gallagher) 10-1 2. Categorical (James Reveley) 20-1 3. Reve De Sivola (Daryl Jacob) 7-1 1532: Prince de Beauchene wins. 1531: Bensalem unseats his rider; Reve de Sivola fights out the finish with Prince de Beauchene. 1530: Big error from Rare Bob may have cost his chances. Prince de Beauchene looks to be the one to beat. 1529: Carrickmines falls, jockey Paddy Brennan looks fine however. All three jockeys who fell have National rides but we think they'll be OK. 1528: Bensalem, one of the fancies, is lacking fluency while Saphir des Bois takes the lead. We think Sam Twiston-Davies is fine. 1526: Take The Breeze is brought down by a faller, Crescent Island. Ruby Walsh is walking away, not sure about Sam Twiston-Davies yet. Horses are fine.

1525: They're off in the John Smith's Handicap Chase over three miles. Last one before the National! From hope123123: "I have bet on Character Building... Only female rider... Girl Power!" Good for you. Remember Katie Walsh, who has just been handed a six-day ban for excessive use of the whip, would have had her first ride in this but unfortunately Our Monty developed a leg infection on Wednesday and was withdrawn. Clare Balding on BBC1: "If either Don't Push It or Character Building win, what a story that would make, real front page news stuff." Tony McCoy (Don't Push It): "Arbor Supreme is one that will like the ground and he has the ability. Don't Push It - there's a lot of stats against him but statistics are there to be broken. [On Binocular] No excuses, he jumped pretty slick but didn't finish his race the way you'd want." Nina Carberry (Character Bulding): "He just ran out of juice towards the end last year.

Hopefully just get him round, that's the main thing and then see how we go towards the end, hopefully we'll be close enough." From ConorMcNamaraIE: "Even if you don't have money on a horse at Aintree, John Hunt's commentary on @bbc5live still gives you goosebumps. Got lots of good reviews for John Hunt's commentary during Cheltenham too!" From Shirley in Warrington: "Sunshine and bets, horses galore, you all make it special, What A Friend you are." 1507: Don't want to get too deep into this, but Chief Dan George is trained in Cartmel by a Scotsman (thanks to the e-mail from Snoussi). Ex-Inter Milan and Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez: "I have no idea about racehorses, I prefer dressage normally but it's amazing seeing the horses and seeing the quality. I will be supporting someone, I will not say who. My daughter is in charge of the betting. The weather is like in Spain." E-mail from Wayne in Usk: "I've just realised that I've organised the office sweepstake with last year's horses! Any advice?

Apart from pocketing all the cash and running, you could simply attribute each horse's number to the current list. Good luck! 1501: Brilliant ride from Ruby Walsh's sister Katie but she couldn't quite collar the winner at the end, and it's a remarkable treble for Henderson and Geraghty. Although Geraghty's National mount Or Noir De Somoza is a big outsider you wouldn't want to rule him out completely. RESULT - 1450 John Smith's Dick Francis Aintree Hurdle 1. Oscar Whisky (Barry Geraghty) 6-1 Fav 2. Thousand Stars (Katie Walsh) 16-1 3. Salden Licht (Robert Thornton) 25-1 1455: The Henderson second string, Oscar Whisky, just holds on from the fast-finishing grey Thousand Stars. 1453: Oscar Whisky will try to make it a real test of stamina as he pushes them along now while Salden Licht is making a play. 1453: Celestial Halo still making the pace, Oscar Whisky bowling along in second. Plenty have chances.

1451: The Paul Nicholls horse, Celestial Halo, makes the pace with Binocular about fifth and Peddlers Cross travelling nicely in third. 1450: They're off in the Aintree Hurdle. 1449: Just to clarify. I have mentioned two Scottish-trained National entries and let's not forget there is a third: Chief Dan George. Good to see all this interest from north of the border. 1448: Our next and third race (the Grand National is the fifth and starts at 1615) is the John Smith's Aintree Hurdle. We've got Binocular in it, a mercurial horse with a somewhat controversial history, but Peddlers Cross will be tough to beat. Ladbrokes have taken a punt of £80,000 on this one to win! From James, Vienna: "I'm not superstitious, but I've had a vivid dream that number 36 won this year's Grand National! Should I bet my house on it?" I wouldn't bet your house on it, but put it this way: even a small wager on Ornais might allow you to BUY a house if this big outsider wins.

From McGolders: "How can @BarryJGeraghty only pick up a spare in #BBCGrandNational? Legend." BBC Sport's Frank Keogh on Twitter: "Forty Grand National runners have been read to Honest Junior (female, 20 months). She cuddled phone for Niche Market." BBC Sport racing correspondent Cornelius Lysaght on Twitter: "Jockey Peter Toole taken straight to hospital after fall in Maghull Nov Ch from Classic Fly; briefly unconscious." We wish the horse and jockey well. Toole has no National ride, by the way. 1431: Remember there's another Scottish horse to follow in the National, and that's Silver By Nature. He's a grey which is always popular for once-a-year punters (easy to spot) and is currently second favourite. In my opinion this very fast ground wouldn't be ideal for him, but what do I know? Scottish trainer James Motherway is trying to get Bluesea Cracker to be the first mare to win this in 60 years. He says: "I suppose maybe geldings are better equipped being the boys in the game.

But my one stays, she jumps, she can take a bump and she can give as good as she gets. On the gallops she messes about a bit, so I'll be telling James McNamara 'For God's sake don't let her go to the front too soon.' " 1422: Two in two for trainer Nicky Henderson, but he's not someone you associate with the Grand National and he doesn't have a runner in the big race today. He could have a treble to celebrate instead, because Binocular will get plenty of support in the next race. RESULT - 1415 John Smith's Maghull Novices' Steeplechase 1. Finian's Rainbow (Barry Geraghty) 10-11 Fav 2. Ghizao (Ruby Walsh) 3-1 3. Dan Breen (Jason Maguire) 8-1 1420: Barry Geraghty collects a double for Nicky Henderson as Finian's Rainbow, despite appearing to run out of pace in the latter stages, takes advantage of some poor jumping from Ghizao.

1418: Ghizao and Finian's Rainbow are disputing the lead three from home. 1417: Heavy fall at the first for Classic Fly. Finian's Rainbow going very nicely. 1415: They're off in the John Smith's Maghull Novices' Steeplechase. E-mail from Jenny Hill & Margoe Hammon, Pembroke West Wales: "My cousin and I were delighted to see the clip of the 1911 winner Glenside reported on by Richard Pitman. Our grandfather Dick Beynon bred Glenside. He sold the horse to Sir Ivor Anthony. It was trained at Lawrenny Pembrokeshire along with national winners Kirkland and Music Hall. I am led to understand that they built a replica of the National course at Lawrenny where they trained the horses. We have pictures somewhere of Glenside who I believe only had one eye!

Thank you for making our day - we were fortunate enough to tape the recording for family members to see later." 1409: Huge boo from the Scousers at Aintree when the BBC's Dan Walker asks a selection of spectators whether anyone's booing Sir Alex Ferguson's What A Friend. Jockey Daryl Jacob (What A Friend): "I haven't spoken to Sir Alex Ferguson since the Gold Cup, but he was delighted after the Gold Cup when he came fourth and it's very good of him keeping me on the horse. He seems in really good form at the moment." Jockey Hadden Frost (Calgary Bay): "He's big, quite classy touch wood. He's a good jumper and hopefully he's the right sort." E-mail from James: "I've put a couple of pounds on Becauseicouldn'tsee for my girlfriend. She poked herself in the eye and is now wearing an eyepatch, It's fate." Oscar Time jockey Sam Waley-Cohen on BBC1: "Racing really is an amateur sport for me. One of the big things for me is when I go into a race like this is that I'm fit as can possibly be. This is such a dream race.

The horse has to have so much courage but there has to be a unity between man and beast. You could have Cheryl Cole streaking and you wouldn't even notice." From ConorBond: "Calgary Bay for the Grand National. Jockey's form has been patchy recently but I think we are in for a bit of surprise." That one's about 40-1 in places. Probably fair to say trainer Henrietta Kinght has also been "patchy" but both BBC Sport's Frank Keogh and Jennie Pitman like Calgary Bay too... RESULT - 1345 John Smith's Mersey Novices' Hurdle 1. Spirit Son (Barry Geraghty) 3-1 2. Cue Card (Joe Tizzard) 5-2 Fav 3. Rock On Ruby (Daryl Jacob) 9-2 1351: Spirit Son wins the first race under Barry Geraghty for trainer Nicky Henderson. Geraghty will partner outsider Or Noir De Somoza in the big race while Brian Hughes, the jockey who fell, is walking away without ill effect. He's on Tidal Bay in the National.

1350: Drive Time is a a heavy faller three flights out... 1346: If you want to send a tweet I'll check anything with a #bbcgrandnational hashtag. Thanks! 1345: They're off in the John Smith's Mersey Novices' Hurdle. David from London: "My first Grand National winner was Highland Wedding in 1969. l was 14. My aunt's daughter was married the same day. I started watching the race when Jay Trump won 1965." 1342: With the runners for the first race (1345) on their way down to the start, a quick look at the betting market shows The Midnight Club is a clear favourite now, with Silver By Nature next best in the betting and Oscar Time third. McCoy's Don't Push It is being pushed down the market.

BBC Sport's Frank Keogh on Twitter: " 'It was nice to be out there and not be scared' says dual National winner Carl Llewellyn after second in veterans charity race." 1337: Super exchange between BBC Sport's Rishi Persad and jockey Robert Thornton (West End Rocker's jockey). Rishi was under the impression that "Choc" Thornton had cut his long, flowing locks for charity. "No," says Choc. "It's 'cos I'm a Dad now and I've grown up, and besides my daughter doesn't know which one's mummy." 1327: Tony McCoy is on BBC1, sitting on his sofa chatting to Clare Balding. What a lovely house he has. The interview was, of course, pre-recorded and a very good one it is too. Meanwhile, have you been through Frank Keogh's runners and riders yet? Have you organised a sweepstake? Or have you already done all that and fancy reading Frank's excellent interview with Sam Waley-Cohen - the fantastic amateur jockey who rides the fancied Oscar Time today? Tony McCoy reflecting on last year's win: "It's quite sad in a way, because it's gone now.

It's unbelievable how happy people were, I'm not sure how happy I'd be for someone else. I didn't want to be someone who had ridden all them winners and not won the Grand National." 1318: If you don't mind, I'd love you lot to send me a tweet, a text or an e-mail to tell me who you're backing and your crazy thinking behind your selection. I'm backing a big outsider this year, Vic Venturi, though it's nothing to do with the fact that if you spell its name slightly differently on an internet search you get pointed to information about an exotic, er... actress. BBC1 betting expert Gary Wiltshire: "What a lovely day, the atmosphere is tremendous. The bookies lost a fortune last year, millions, let's hope it happens again this year. I've just spoken to all the heads of the bookmakers and they say all sorts of horses are being backed today. I've got a funny feeling What A Friend, Sir Alex Ferguson's horse, might start favourite. I think a lot of people might back him just before the off. Big Fella Thanks at 16-1 is a fair price, could go off at less.

When you have a bet make sure you ask your friendly bookie for a price!" 1310: If you're going to have a single bet all year, this is the one. So who have you gone for? After yesterday's emotional plunge on Tony McCoy to repeat last year's success on this year's top weight Don't Push It, plenty of realists have today put their cash on the earlier favourite, The Midnight Club, ridden by Ruby Walsh and the best of the Irish contingent. Meanwhile, the real "gamble" of the day is on Silver By Nature, as noted by Cornelius Lysaght below. He's bidding to be the first Scottish horse to win since Rubstic (1979) and the first grey to do it since 1961 (Nicolaus Silver). BBC Sport's Frank Keogh at Aintree: "As a sell-out crowd of racegoers basked in sunshine on a glorious Grand National day at Aintree I walked to the winning line, and spied the grave of the great triple winner Red Rum.

That iconic fence, The Chair, could be seen in the background and the memories of this great sporting day flooded back as Bob Champion, back in the Aldaniti colours, recalled that famous day when he won 30 years ago after beating cancer. I thought of my late father who wrote a song The Taaffe Boys of Rathcoole centred on jockey Pat Taaffe's 1955 National win on Quare Times which gave legendary Irish trainer Vincent O'Brien a third straight victory with three different horses, and I welled up a bit, I have to admit. So many memories, so many stories.

Whose tear-jerking tale will be told after the 30 fences and four-and-a-half miles are negotiated this afternoon?" BBC Sport racing correspondent Cornelius Lysaght on Twitter: "William Hill predicting heavily backed Silver By Nature may displace Don't Push It as favourite." 1300: As we coincide our text coverage with live TV on BBC1 and streamed video across this website within the UK, I can still recall the seven-year-old me living every leap as Charlie Fenwick guided Ben Nevis to the finish line ahead of the only other three finishers in the 1980 mudbath of a race. It was not so easy to replicate that success: it took me 22 years to find another winner (Bindaree). 1255: You always remember the first time. First day at school, first kiss, first pint. How fond are your memories of your first Grand National winner?

Bookmark with: GRAND NATIONAL More glory for McCains with Ballabriggs | Horse Racing News | Racing Post Relive the Grand National with our RPTV replay Legendary McCains win National with Ballabriggs By Tom Kerr 4:25PM 9 APR 2011 Report: Aintree, Saturday John Smith's Grand National Handicap Chase (Grade 3) 6yo+, 4m4f DONALD MCCAIN followed in the footsteps of his legendary father Ginger, who trained three-time Grand National hero Red Rum, as his Ballabriggs (14-1) bravely won the National from the front. Oscar Time (14-1) finished second, Don't Push It (9-1) third, State Of Play (28-1) fourth and Niche Market (16-1) fifth. The outpouring of joy from Donald and Ginger as a tired but noble Ballabriggs went past the winning post told those watching all that the victory - and homecoming - meant to connections. For Jason Maguire, who dismounted immediately after the line to give his mount a well-deserved breather, it was also a first Grand National triumph.

"I haven’t a clue [how I feel] to be honest," said an exhausted Maguire, surrounded by well-wishers and bombarded by the noise of the crowd. "I don’t know what I feel. I’m just overwhelmed. I’m sure it’ll sink in." An elated Jason Maguire post-race PICTURE: Edward Whitaker "He loved it. He half ran away from me for the first mile. He was just jumping from fence to fence. Turning in the first time I thought I’d just get him to the front and relax, keep getting breathers into him. Every jump you could just fill him up and he’s got the trip because of that," Maguire added. Ten minutes earlier, in front of a sell-out Aintree audience basking in the spring sunshine and a worldwide TV audience measured in the hundreds of millions, the 40 runners set off to the first at the customary cut-throat pace. Ballabriggs was prominent from the first, avoiding much of the drama that went on behind.

Falls led to two fences being skipped and two horses, the Willie Mullins-trained, Patrick Mullins-ridden Dooneys Gate and Paul Nicholls-trained, Nick Scholfield-ridden Ornais, suffering fatal injuries. There were no reports of any serious injury to their jockeys. Racing prominently with Ballabriggs were Niche Market and Majestic Concorde, while 15-2 favourite The Midnight Club and last year's winner Don't Push It were held further back by their jockeys, Ruby Walsh and Tony McCoy. Silver By Nature, well-backed beforehand and bidding to become the first Scottish winner in generations, was still further back and struggled to go the tough pace set by the enthusiastic front-runners. Five out virtually all the well-backed horses in the race remained standing and running, although a clear division was opening between the leading group and those realistically running for minor honours. A delighted Donald McCain congratulates Jason Maguire PICTURE: Edward Whitaker Ballabriggs, despite one mistake, remained prominent, accompanied by a trio whose riders were resplendent in orange silks.

Sam Waley-Cohen, the Gold Cup winner on Long Run, looked well placed to try to record a unique double by becoming the first amateur jockey towin both races in the same season. Killyglen, who led for a long way in last year's race, again ran a big race and remained bang in contention at this stage, as did the Paul Nicholls-trained Niche Market, victory for whom would be a first for the champion trainer. What A Friend, the Sir Alex Ferguson-owned runner, was pulled up three out, at which time Big Fella Thanks was fast moving into contention, while Don't Push It continued to travel promisingly for Tony McCoy. Taking the last victory appeared in the grasp of Ballabriggs, Oscar Time, Big Fella Thanks and Don't Push It, with outside claims for Niche Market, and it was the first-named pair who went clear and settled down for a duel to the line. Rounding the Elbow, half the famous Aintree run-in behind them, Ballabriggs had an advantage of just a length over Oscar Time.

Yet when it came to it Ballabriggs dug deep, channelling the spirit of Red Rum, and closed out the race, cheered to the rafters as he passed the line two and a quarter lengths clear. Donald McCain and his father Ginger share a joke after Ballabriggs' success PICTURE: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos) McCain said: "It’s fantastic honestly. To have supporters like [owner] Mr Hemmings means everything. Aintree means as much to him as it does to us. "We’ve always genuinely thought he might be an Aintree horse and you only need to see the way he’s took to the place to see what he’s done. "Good horses are easy to train. Things have gone so smoothly all year. The prep at Kelso was grand. It’s easy to say he’s won a Grand National, but he’s an absolute pleasure to do anything with." Ballabriggs is cooled down after his National exertions by Davy Russell PICTURE: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos) McCain added that the winner finished the race unharmed, although very tired. "It’s hot, he’s been up there all the way round.

He’s jumped his way there, travelled great. He’s tired. He got tired at Cheltenham. He gives everything. He doesn’t save anything. He doesn’t keep anything back. But he’s coming round now, he’s just very tired." Ginger McCain, who won the National four times, most recently in 2004 with Amberleigh House, said: "He’s made a cracking job of it. He’s missed Cheltenham and he’s done it by the book." An emotional Trevor Hemmings hugs Jason Maguire in elation PICTURE: John Grossick McCain snr then joked: "If I ever meet his father I’m going to congratulate him and ask him where the brains come from.” Winning owner Trevor Hemmings, who also enjoyed Grand National success with Hedgehunter in 2005, praised the combination of horse and rider. He said: "Absolute corker of a ride, superb ride, unbelievable. You cannot do anymore than have a horse as good as that and a jockey as good as that." There was a sting in the tail for Maguire, however, as the rider received a five-day ban for excessive use of the whip.

Hemmings added: "Donald has done a brilliant job with Ballabriggs, and he clearly learned plenty from Ginger as they now have five National trophies on their mantlepiece. "I was confused when Hedgehunter won, and I was not ready for it. Don't get me wrong, I loved every minute of it, but I only half got it. In contrast, today I lived every second of it, and though I have been kicked, pushed and trodden on with everyone wanting to congratulate me, I absolutely loved it." Grand National - History of the Grand National Skybet Grand National by Loveaflutter A Grand History of the Grand National Grand National All the way back in 1837 the world’s most famous horse racing event was merely a ploughed field, a stone wall and two hurdles in Maghull. The Great Liverpool Steeplechase Has come a long way since then, not only changing name and venue, but also becoming a national sporting institution as the Grand National. Here’s our sportsbook timeline of some famous horse racing faces: 1927: The first year the race was covered by the BBC, at that time it was a radio commentary: no HD back then!

1934: Golden Miller became the only horse to win both the Grand National and the Cheltenham Gold Cup in the same season. 1956: The Queen Mother’s horse Devon Loch (ridden by Dick Francis) inexplicably gave a half leap 50 yards from the finish and collapsed. Could it have been due to a shadow, or cramp perhaps? Dick Francis has since carried out research on possible reasons for the catastrophe and has written numerous thrillers based on horse racing. 1967: A big priced winner Foinavon was the only horse to scramble over a particular fence at the first attempt after a massive pile-up; the fence is now named in its honour. 1973: Red Rum became the only horse to have won the race three times (1973, 1974 and 1977), earning a place in the record books for both him and his trainer Donald ‘Ginger’ McCain. Long since passed, Red Rum is buried next to the winning post and has a life-sized bronze statue at the grounds and a race, the ‘Red Rum chase’, named in his honour.

1979: Rubstick become the first Scottish trained horse to win the Grand National, with celebratory bagpipes played on the return to his Roxburghshire stables. 1981: In 1981Aldaniti gave bookmakers and sports betting fans up and down the country a bit of a panic when the horse almost stopped racing with leg trouble. 1982: Dick Francis became the oldest jockey to win the race, aged 48. 1983: The Pitman Family were no strangers to racing and it was in 1983 when Jenny Pitman became the first woman trainer to win this prestigious race with Corbiere, she followed up with another victory in 1995 with Royal Athlete. 1999: Father and son team Tommy and Paul Carberry (respective trainer and jockey) came together to win with Bobbyjo. 2000: Ted Walsh and son ‘Ruby’ combined to win with Papillon: which backed from the morning at 33/1 and took the coveted prize at 10/1.

2003: Monty’s Pass landed a massive gamble with owner Mike Fuller netting close to £1,000,000 from ante-post bets. The horse was backed from 40-1 into 16-1 and romped home the winner. 2009: Mon Mome became the longest priced winner since Foinavon in 1967 when powering home at 100-1 for trainer Venetia Williams and jockey Liam Treadwell. 2010: Don’t Push It, trained by Jonjo O’Neill, gave Tony McCoy his first victory at his 15th attempt at the Grand National. 2011: Donald McCain had an emotional victory with Ballabriggs, following in the footsteps of his father, Ginger, who had trained winners Red Rum and Amberleigh House. 2012: Katie Walsh became the highest positioning lady to date with a third place finish on Seabass, trained by her father Ted Walsh. 2013: Legendary show jumper Harvey Smith (along with wife Sue) won at 66-1 with Auroras Encore, with only two of the runners falling on the first circuit.

2014: Ridden by Leighton Aspell, the 25-1 winner Pineau de Re finished victorious despite a false start and only 18 of the 40 strong field completing the course. 2014: Champion Jockey AP McCoy has announced his retirement by the end of the season. Currently holding 19 titles, his aim is to retire as the best and hopes to go out with 20 championships. He claims his biggest achievements are winning the Grand National with Don’t Push It and the Gold Cup on Synchronise as well as beating Sir Gordon Richards’ 2002 record for the number of winners in a single season. The Grand National The most important event in the horse racing calendar , is often referred to as the “Housewives’ Favourite”, with British women turning out in force each April to back this most popular of races. Post navigation Grand National 2011: runners and riders named for Aintree race - Telegraph Horse Racing Grand National 2011: runners and riders named for Aintree race Last year's winner Don't Push It heads a maximum field of 40 runners in the John Smith's Grand National at Aintree on Saturday.

9:30AM BST 08 Apr 2011 The 11 year-old gave multiple champion jockey Tony McCoy an emotional first victory in the world's most famous steeplechase 12 months ago, and bids to repeat the dose under top weight. Ante-post favourite The Midnight Club strives to provide Irish champion trainer Willie Mullins with his second taste of National glory, with his jockey Ruby Walsh seeking a third success. British champion Paul Nicholls is still winless in the marathon contest but has a strong hand this year, headed by Gold Cup fourth What A Friend, part-owned by Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Oscar Time is bidding to give owner Robert Waley-Cohen and jockey Sam Waley-Cohen a huge double following the Gold Cup triumph of Long Run. Backstage, Silver By Nature, Donald McCain's Ballabriggs and Big Fella Thanks are other major contenders, while three horses in the field proper have been removed at the declaration stage.

Related Articles Horse painting 'to fetch £20m' 06 Apr 2011 Northern Alliance, Roll Along and Our Monty will not face the starter, meaning Royal Rosa, Skippers Brig and Golden Kite are now guaranteed a run. Runners and riders guide to 2011 Grand National: DON'T PUSH IT (Jonjo O'Neill) - odds 14/1 Bidding to become the first horse since Red Rum in 1974 to land back-to-back victories but faces a stiff task off top weight. Nevertheless, he loves Aintree and shaped well on his prep run a Cheltenham. TIDAL BAY (Howard Johnson) - 40/1 As quirky as he is talented, it is impossible to predict how he will react to the unique fences and the extreme distance. If he takes to the course then he could be in the shake-up - it's quite a big 'if' though. WHAT A FRIEND (Paul Nicholls) - 12/1 His fourth in the Gold Cup gives him every chance and he is sure to attract plenty of support.

Co-owned by Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, this smart chaser would be a major player if he rises to the occasion and is 'well in' at the weights. VIC VENTURI (Dessie Hughes) - 50-1 Unlucky in the race last year when he was hampered at the 20th fence and unseated his rider. Has won the Becher Chase over these obstacles and has been trained for another crack. MAJESTIC CONCORDE (Dermot Weld) - 33/1 A fascinating Irish contender, whose trainer went close with Greasepaint in 1983 and 1984. A winner on the Flat, over hurdles and over fences, he certainly has plenty of class and has been lightly raced over the last couple of years. 8. OR NOIR DE SOMOZA (David Pipe) - 50/1 This purchase from France, where he was a prolific winner, has yet to run in Britain but connections have won the National in the past and are clearly excited by the nine-year-old. Hard to assess, however.

DOONEYS GATE (Willie Mullins) - 100/1 May not be the stable's first string, but a decent performer. His form stands up well and he was fourth in the Topham over these fences last April. BIG FELLA THANKS (Ferdy Murphy) - 18/1 Having his third attempt after finishing sixth and fourth in the last two years for Paul Nicholls and has since changed stables. Sure to have his supporters and he has been trained with just this day in mind. THE TOTHER ONE (Paul Nicholls) - 66/1 Very useful on his day and not that many miles on the clock. However, his jumping could be a big issue here as he does make the odd mistake. BALLABRIGGS (Donald McCain) - 14/1 Has been a big fancy for some time to continue the McCain family's amazing record in this great race. Did not have his first run of the season until January and after two spins over hurdles shaped well when second back over fences at Kelso.

THE MIDNIGHT CLUB (Willie Mullins) - 10/1 Went on many people's short list when winning the Bobbyjo Chase, a traditional trial for the National, at Fairyhouse in February. The trainer struck with Hedgehunter in 2005 and this is his number one hope this time round. NICHE MARKET (Paul Nicholls) - 20/1 The Irish National winner in 2009, he was pulled up here 12 months ago after losing touch when making a bad mistake. He has since been switched from Bob Buckler's stable and his new trainer has been focusing on getting him 100% for the big day. SILVER BY NATURE (Lucinda Russell) - 14/1 No grey has won since Nicolaus Silver 50 years ago but few have arrived on Merseyside with his credentials. Second in the 2009 Welsh National, he put up a terrific performance when scoring at Haydock last month for the second year running. Any rain would help his cause. BACKSTAGE (Gordon Elliott) - 12/1 Quietly fancied last year only to unseat his rider at the 20th fence.

Has been given an unorthodox preparation with two runs in point-to-points which he won both. Trainer won with Silver Birch in 2007. CHIEF DAN GEORGE (Jimmy Moffatt) - 40/1 Missed the cut for the race last year but has safely got in this time. Usually prominent from the start in his races but fell at Cheltenham on his latest outing. CALGARY BAY (Henrietta Knight) - 33/1 Has an interesting profile for a National horse and could run a big race if he takes to the course. The stable is not known for its runners in this, but he is normally a good jumper and should be suited by the galloping nature of Aintree. KILLYGLEN (Stuart Crawford) - 66/1 Although a winner on the Mildmay course as a novice, he has not quite lived up to expectations and has plenty of weight for what he has achieved of late. OSCAR TIME (Martin Lynch) - 12/1 Would be a fairytale triumph for connections of Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Long Run.

He was bought after finishing second in last year's Irish National with Aintree as the objective. Ran a fine trial last time out and could well deliver. QUINZ (Philip Hobbs) - 18/1 Has been mixing it in top novice company this season and stepped up to win the ever-competitive Racing Post Chase at Kempton recently. Remains open to huge improvement and is at the right end of the weights. Inexperience the worry. BECAUSEICOULDNTSEE (Noel Glynn) - 25/1 Yet another of a strong Irish contingent. Unexposed yet has shown a good level of form in staying chases, finishing runner-up in the Cheltenham four-miler last year and second to Majestic Concorde on his last start in December. COMPLY OR DIE (David Pipe) - 50/1 The winner in 2008 and runner-up in 2009, age appeared to catch up with him when he was 12th last year and hard to fancy to strike again, although he could get round in his own time.

QUOLIBET (Jonjo O'Neill) - 150/1 Has some fair form to his name from his days in France but was pulled up on his British debut in Cheltenham's cross-country event. Not up to a task like this. GRAND SLAM HERO (Nigel Twiston-Davies) - 100/1 Won last year's Summer Plate at Market Rasen and will have ground to suit, but still difficult to seeing making much impact. STATE OF PLAY (Evan Williams) - 25/1 Was fourth in this a couple of seasons ago and ran similarly well to grab third last year. Those experiences should stand him in good stead and he may pick up minor honours again, but difficult to see him winning. KING FONTAINE (Malcolm Jefferson) - 66/1 Progressive chaser who has won twice at Haydock this season and was not disgraced in finishing fifth in a hot handicap at the Cheltenham Festival. Looks the sort to do well in this race if taking to the fences, but this might be a year too soon.

IN COMPLIANCE (Dessie Hughes) - 66/1 Has lost a gear or two since since winning a Grade One back in 2006, but has done well to come back from numerous injury problems. A winner at Thurles earlier this season and might go well for a way, but huge question marks over his stamina. HELLO BUD (Nigel Twiston-Davies) - 33/1 Highly creditable fifth in last year's renewal and has since won the Becher Chase over these giant fences. Looks badly handicapped as a result, however, and no 13-year-old has won this since the 1920s. WEST END ROCKER (Alan King) - 33/1 Enjoying a fine campaign, winning on decent ground at Newbury before ploughing through the mud to win a competitive Classic Chase at Warwick. Ran no sort of race last time but has an each-way squeak if forgiven that and the rain comes in bucket loads. SANTA'S SON (Howard Johnson) - 150/1 A nine-time winner but this a different league to what he has been competing in for most of the season.

No chance unless the rest fail to complete. BLUESEA CRACKER (James Motherway) - 25/1 Won a heavy ground Irish Grand National last spring and this has been the plan since. But she was well beaten by the Midnight Club last time and hard to see her reversing that form. Snapped up recently by last year's winning owner JP McManus. THAT'S RHYTHM (Martin Todhunter) - 150/1 Not a bad sort at his level - but this isn't it. Might improve for this extreme distance, but surely not enough to make his presence felt. SURFACE TO AIR (Chris Bealby) - 66/1 Won three on the spin in 2008 but then spent almost three years on the sidelines. Last of 10 on his belated comeback and it seems injuries have wrecked a promising career. PIRAYA (David Pipe) - 150/1 Arrived from France with a big reputation a while back but has managed just one win and was beaten out of sight in this 12 months ago. Might get round again but will be nearer last than first.

CAN'T BUY TIME (Jonjo O'Neill) - 66/1 Has looked the sort to run well in this for a while but he has failed to complete the last two years. Fair effort at Cheltenham on New Year's Day and would have place claims if completing, but that is no given. CHARACTER BUILDING (John Quinn) - 25/1 Was well fancied 12 months ago but could only finish a never-nearer seventh. Has been largely disappointing since and if he could not do it last year, he surely won't this time. ORNAIS (Paul Nicholls) - 100/1 Has not had much racing over the past few years but showed he retains some sort of ability when second in a Newbury hunter chase last time. This is a different kettle of fish and impossible to fancy. ARBOR SUPREME (Willie Mullins) - 20/1 Parted company with his jockey at halfway last year but recent second to stablemate The Midnight Club, finishing in front of Oscar Time and Vic Venturi, reads well. Definite each-way chance.

ROYAL ROSA (Howard Johnson) - 100/1 Was well beaten off when unseating his rider last year, but has since filled the runner-up spot in the Becher. Disappointed since in the Welsh National but a return to these fences might light him up. One of the more appealing 100-1 shots but not getting any younger. SKIPPERS BRIG (Nicky Richards) - 40/1 Very smart horse who beat fellow National hope Ballabriggs at Kelso recently. Of some interest off a featherweight but quick ground would be a big blow to his chances. GOLDEN KITE (Adrian Maguire) - 80/1 Won a thrilling Munster National in October and a recent spin over hurdles should have him spot-on fitness-wise. Lack of course experience the main concern. Reserves: ALWAYS WAINING (Peter Bowen) Ran away with the Topham 12 months ago and was not disgraced in finishing sixth in the Becher on ground softer than ideal. Has been campaigned over hurdles since to protect his mark and can be given an each-way squeak.

FAASEL (David Pipe) Talented but quirky individual, who was second in the Kim Muir for the second year in succession at Cheltenham. Anyone's guess how he'll take to this and he's not betting material. LE BEAU BAI (Richard Lee) Will definitely stay but lacks the pace to threaten on this quicker ground. Pulled up in the Midlands National last time too, so too many negatives to make a case for him. GILES CROSS (Victor Dartnall) Second in the Welsh National but they are going to go too quick for him on this ground. Grand National: Maguire looking for repeat success with Ballabriggs : Features : Grand National Free Bet Jason Maguire and Ballabriggs will bid for repeat success in 2012. “Ballabriggs was going in to attack every fence and even two out I was still hanging on to him..." Prior to last year, Jason Maguire had almost seemed destined to join jockeys such as Jamie Goldstein, Tom Jenks and Andy Adams who all missed out on their one real chance of glory in the Grand National.

The 29-year-old Co Meath native had been lined up to ride the winner Silver Birch for his close friend Gordon Elliott in the 2007 renewal, but was instead claimed by Donald McCain for Idle Talk, who unseated him at the 19th. But the victory of the McCain-trained Ballabriggs in 2011 changed all that and further cemented a flourishing jockey/trainer partnership which has produced a stream of high-profile winners and looks set to be one of the leading forces in jump racing for seasons to come. The primary concern heading into last year's race was whether Ballabriggs possessed the necessary stamina for Aintree. Trevor Hemmings' gelding had almost been collared near the line when narrowly prevailing in the Kim Muir Challenge Cup at the previous year's Cheltenham Festival and was stepping beyond three and a quarter miles for the first time. Maguire had a scare before the big race after a crashing fall from the John Quinn-trained Palawi in the Grade One Juvenile Hurdle 48 hours earlier.

Fortunately an x-ray on his arm only highlighted an old fracture, while a couple of stitches and some strapping on his thumb allowed him to pass the racecourse doctor. "My biggest problem was to get him to relax," said Maguire, "I didn't want to lose my position early on so we probably did too much in the early stages. "Ballabriggs was going in to attack every fence and even two out I was still hanging on to him. But once he was off the bridle and straightened up he really dug deep and was always going to hang on. He was very tired afterwards and it's incredible to win on a horse people thought was a doubtful stayer. "I was just trying to keep my eye on the fences but you see the orange boards two or three fences ahead. I was trying to see what angle I was going to take. The trainer said to try and be in the first 10 in case I frightened myself and ended up with a lot of ground to make up but Ballabriggs half ran away with me for the first mile - he was just jumping fence to fence.

"Turning in the first time, I just thought that I would try and get him to the front and relax him - keep getting a stride into him - and every time he jumped, he just did enough and he got the trip because of that." In winning the Grand National , the jockey surpassed the record of his illustrious uncle Adrian, whose highest placing of third came on Moorcroft Boy in 1994. Adrian was on hand to witness the family success as he saddled his first runner in the famous race, Golden Kite, who completed in 16th. Maguire started out as an apprentice on the Flat with trainer Joanna Morgan, finishing ninth aboard Rathnally Star on his first start under Rules in a 14-furlong maiden at Down Royal on June 2, 1995. The long-awaited winner followed just over a year later - on June 7, 1996 - when the Mick Halford-trained Green Patriot landed a Dundalk apprentice handicap over nine furlongs in which another rider was future British Flat champion jockey Jamie Spencer.

As his weight rose, the young jockey turned to jump racing, riding for the powerful yards of Mouse Morris and Tony Martin, but a lack of opportunities saw Maguire head to Britain, linking up with Gloucestershire trainer Tom George in late 1999. A seven-year spell with George yielded a first Cheltenham Festival success for both trainer and jockey when Galileo captured the race now known as the Neptune Investment Management Novices Hurdle in 2002 - Maguire's first ride at the prestigious meeting. The jockey's association with the McCains arose due to Ginger's close friend Sean Byrne, a trainer from Dunboyne who found the future Grand National winner Amberleigh House for the family and owner John Halewood, although Maguire's first ride for Ginger in November, 2003, proved less than successful as Lambrini Gold was pulled up in a Ludlow novices' hurdle. Amberleigh House's Grand National success in 2004 breathed new life into Bankhouse Stables in Cheshire and there were more than 60 horses in training at the yard by the time Donald McCain took over the reins from his father in 2006.

The influx of a raft of promising horses prompted the need for a stable jockey and Maguire took up the position of number one in 2007 - a move that would cost him the winning ride on Silver Birch in the Grand National of that year. The McCain/Maguire partnership soon flourished. The rider celebrated a second Cheltenham Festival win with Whiteoak in the David Nicholson Mares Hurdle in 2008, while Cloudy Lane landed the Grimthorpe Chase the same season before coming home sixth behind Comply Or Die in the John Smith's Grand National. With McCain firmly establishing himself as a leading trainer, Maguire saw his stock rise with a string of high-profile successes. Peddlers Cross gave the jockey a second Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle victory at the 2010 Cheltenham Festival before going on to further glory in the Mersey Novices' Hurdle at Aintree the following month. Maguire passed the 100-winner mark in Britain for the first time in 2009/2010 and was only denied another century the following season after sustaining a broken ankle in a fall.

At present, Ballabriggs can be backed at [16.0] for the Grand National , with Junior heading the market at [13.5].

Question: Who trained Ballabriggs to Grand National victory in 2011, following a family trend?
Answer: DONALD MCCAIN