
Son of an Aintree legend; Donald McCain has established himself as the north’s leading trainer since taking over the reins from his father Ginger McCain in 2006.

Son of an Aintree legend; Donald McCain has established himself as the north’s leading trainer since taking over the reins from his father Ginger McCain in 2006.

The trainer said at a media stable visit organised by Cheltenham Racecourse ahead of The Festival (12–15 March): "This time last year we were in a bit of a different place – I had to cancel the media visit because the horses were coughing and we went into the 2012 Festival on the back of having a nightmare.

Replacing quality horses such as Gold Cup heroes Kauto Star and Denman would be a monumental task for any racehorse trainer – even Paul Nicholls.

Nicky Henderson is the all-time leading trainer at the Cheltenham Festival with 46 successes after gaining a record seven successes last year.

Nicky Henderson’s Seven Barrows yard is the envy of racing trainers either side of the Irish Sea at the moment.

When Sir Henry Cecil saddles Frankel at Ascot ahead of the QIPCO Champion Stakes on Saturday (20 October), the poignancy of the moment will be far from lost on him.

Jump racing afficiondos are rubbing their hands in glee, as the season starts to get going again. Here, trainer Victor Dartnall reveals his plans for some of his leading contenders in the months ahead.
Page 1 of 5