Grand National jockey Toby McCain-Mitchell has been handed a 10-day suspension for failing to pull up his tired horse, Top Of The Bill, before it fell at the final fence during Saturday's race at Aintree.
The 24-year-old, making his debut in the showpiece event, is the grandson of the late Ginger McCain, who trained three-time Grand National winner Red Rum. McCain-Mitchell carried a lock of Red Rum's hair in his gloves as a lucky charm.
Top Of The Bill made an error at Valentine's Brook and fell back through the field, but McCain-Mitchell continued before the horse fell at the final fence. The stewards' report stated that an inquiry was held to consider whether the rider should have pulled up the gelding after it weakened rapidly.
After reviewing recordings and interviewing the rider and veterinary officer, McCain-Mitchell was suspended for 10 days for failing to pull up when the horse had tailed off. Top Of The Bill required veterinary assessment but was expected to travel home that evening.
Two other horses, Quai De Bourbon and Mr Vango, also fell during the race and underwent veterinary assessment. Mr Vango was transferred to Leahurst Equine Hospital for further tests.
