John McConnell reckons stable sweetheart Anna Bunina is marriage material. And the Irish trainer is hoping his magic mare’s love affair with the Coral Scottish Champion Hurdle is extended on Saturday.
Anna is heading back to Ayr to defend her crown on Scots Grand National Day. Two years ago, she came second to Milkwood and the pain of narrow defeat was doubled by a serious tendon injury sustained during the contest. Anna boldly fought back from that setback and crowned her return with a spectacular victory over West Cork in the contest 12 months ago.
McConnell is charging up the training ranks and makes no secret of the fact the seven-year-old has played a massive role in his progression. He said: “She means a lot to me. I suppose when you see her and see how small she is, you really appreciate what she does.
