Donald McCain’s Minella Drama claimed a long-awaited victory in the Grade 2 Virgin Bet Old Roan Limited Handicap Chase at Aintree, a course with deep ties to McCain. Ridden by Brian Hughes, Minella Drama, a 3-1 contender, led from the start against top rivals like Paul Nicholls' Stage Star and Hitman.
In a strong front-running performance, Minella Drama tackled each fence flawlessly, setting the pace as the field reached the home stretch. Despite strong pressure from challengers, the nine-year-old found another gear when Hughes asked, holding off Hitman to win by a length and three-quarters.
McCain expressed his delight: "It’s magic; he’s a wonderful horse who deserved this big day. If there’s one place for him to win, it’s here at Aintree. We’re a local yard with local owners, so it’s special."
The victory earned Minella Drama a 16-1 quote for next month’s Grand Sefton Chase over Aintree’s National fences, but McCain remains undecided on future plans. Reflecting on his approach, McCain noted, "I’ve sometimes raced him too much because he’s so tough. Now that he’s won a big one, it might be time to regroup."
McCain added that Minella Drama favours racing up north, recalling a challenging experience at Ascot where the horse appeared unusually unsettled. For now, McCain plans to give Minella Drama a well-earned break before determining his next race.