Connell convinced Marine Nationale coming right for Cheltenham
ENCOURAGING EFFORT: Marine Nationale ran a fine race in defeat when runner-up to Solness at Leopardstown on Sunday. Picture: Niall Carson/PA Wire.
Barry Connell believes he is heading to Cheltenham with the best Irish-trained prospect of toppling Jonbon in the Queen Mother Champion Chase — despite Marine Nationale's defeat behind Solness on Sunday.
Winner of the Supreme Novices' Hurdle two seasons ago, his novice chase campaign was cut short after just two runs with a tendon injury.
