The Late Great Ginger McCain

It was with great sadness that we heard the news of the passing away of racing legend Ginger McCain. Just 3 days shy of his 81st birthday Ginger will be best remembered for saddling Red Rum to three Grand Nationals in 73', 74' and 77'. And if that was not enough he returned 27 years later in 2004 and again conquered the Aintree epic with Amberleigh House.


His training career started from humble beginnings starting from when he took out a permit license in 1953. Supplementing his income as a taxi driver amongst other things it wasn't until 16 years had passed that Ginger took out a full training license in 1969.

Donald 'Ginger' McCain 1930-2011

The Grand National was going through turbulent times in the early seventies and many regard the Ginger and Red Rum combination as the saviour of the annual race which was threatened with extinction. Let's not forget that along with the three wins he also had two second place finishes in a five year period. Truly a fairytale scenario and a feat that is unlikely to ever be repeated.


A colourful character to say the least he put the heart in the mouth of many a racing reporter. You just never knew what he was going to say next. He will be dearly missed by all. Rest in Peace.

Ginger with Red Rum