Bit of a Rum do

JASON HEAVEY THE legendary Red Rum’s achievements at Carlisle are to be celebrated with a special 40th anniversary race day in his honour. The three-time Grand National winner (above) was not only a legend at Aintree but also at the Cumbrian racecourse. Red Rum prepared for each of his National victories in 1973, 1974 and 1977 by winning at Carlisle’s first autumn meeting. To mark the 40th anniversary of Red Rum’s last Carlisle success, the course has named 13 October Red Rum Day. And anybody celebrating their 40th birthday this year will gain free entry on the day. The highlight of the event will be the Windermere Handicap Chase, the same race Red Rum won three times. Carlisle is reviving the race especially for the day. Donald McCain, son of Red Rum’s trainer Ginger McCain and himself a Grand National-winning trainer with Ballabriggs in 2011, said: “Carlisle was certainly a good course for both my father and Red Rum ahead of their National wins. “It is one of the best national hunt courses in the country, especially for novice chasers. The uphill track provides a real test.” Tickets for Red Rum Day on 13 October are £14 (in advance) or £17 (on the day). Those aged 40 this year can gain free entry if they bring photo ID with them, which shows their date of birth.