Julian Smyth-Osbourne believes his stable star Arctic Fancy can once again play a significant role at Cheltenham in March.
The seven-year-old, who finished third behind Hors La Loi III in the Citroen Supreme Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham last March, will be targeted at either the Irish Independent Newspapers Arkle Chase or the Cathcart Chase at this year's Festival.
The gelding opened his account over fences at Chepstow in November but was beaten 20 lengths into second by Buddy Marvel at Market Rasen last month.
However, his trainer said: "I know my horse pretty well and he wasn't right that day. He didn't seem sharp.
"I would have no qualms about taking on the winner again in a fast-run race on a stiff track which is what we would get at Cheltenham.
"A lot of horses are crying enough at the top of the hill but we know my horse goes well round there.
"The Arkle looks like being the hottest race of the Festival but I think Arctic Fancy would be all right over the two miles five of the Cathcart, although he doesn't get much beyond one mile five on the Flat.
"The horse is fine and will be out by the end of the month - he could possibly go to Kempton on January 22nd."
