[3][4] McConnell is a four-time World Championship bronze medallist in the 4 x 400 metres relay in 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2011, with the 2007 team setting the British record of 3:20.04.

Secondary School in Glasgow before graduating from Loughborough University in 2000 with a degree in Sports Science.

Originally a high jump (becoming Scottish champion in 1998, 1999 and 2000),[7] before turning to the 400 m and then the 400 metres hurdles (winning Commonwealth Bronze in a PB time).

[12] McConnell alongside Fraser, Catherine Murphy, and Ohuruogu finished fourth in the 4 × 400 m relay at the 2004 Olympics, but could inherit bronze medals from this event as American athlete Crystal Cox was later found guilty of doping offences.

[15] She returned to training nine weeks after giving birth to her son with a view to competing at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in her hometown of Glasgow – however she announced her immediate retirement from athletics in April 2014.

[19][20] [8][21] McConnell is a rugby union fan, and is supporter of the Glasgow Warriors and the Scotland national team.