Donald McCain ‘not a believer’ of Grand National time change

Grand National-winning trainer Donald McCain believes horses have been the forgotten factor in the decision to put back the start of the world’s greatest steeplechase to 5.15pm.

McCain, who saddled Ballabriggs to win the Aintree spectacular in 2011 and whose father Ginger was responsible for three-time hero Red Rum, feels the race will now be too late in the day for the good of the thoroughbred.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea. I think the horses have been thought of last again,” the Cholmondeley handler said.