Following Annie Mc’s last run, when she finished second at Doncaster, we had a couple of options in mind – the Lady Protectress Mares’ Chase at Huntingdon on January 27th, or stepping her up in trip and looking for a race over three miles. 

Having given it some thought, we’re going to aim her at the Huntingdon race, she won it two years ago [when it was switched to Warwick], it’s over the 2 ½ mile trip she’s well used to, and although it looks as if we could be taking on her old rival, Zambella, once again, they always say you should never be afraid of one horse! 

In terms of her homework in the meantime, now she’s got the two runs under her belt this season it’s really just a case of keeping her fitness at the current level, she’s an old pro now and generally takes it all in her stride, and only occasionally does she behave like a madam on the gallops, when she’s just reminding us who’s boss! 

She’s always been a very sound jumper too, so we don’t have to do too much in terms of schooling, although her legs have been sound since her first run at Carlisle, the less stress we can put them under, the better.  As I say, we’ll keep her ticking over until Huntingdon, when I hope to see some of you for what should be another exciting day.

Jonjo O'Neill, Coral Racing Club Trainer

TAKE TODAY'S QUIZ ON ANNIE MC & JONJO O'NEILL HERE