Connections feel Beltor is ready to tackle the tough Cheltenham course following his stunning victory at Kempton on Saturday.
The four-year-old has only just switched from a career on the Flat, but won his first outing over obstacles at Ludlow in January.
And the son of Authorized has backed that up by claiming the Grade Two BetBright Cheltenham Festival Fund Adonis Juvenile Hurdle on Saturday.
He has now been backed in the ante-post betting for the Triumph Hurdle at the Festival and trainer Robert Stephens was pleased with the way he came through his latest test.
“He’s come out of the race well. He’s eaten up and trotted sound, so we’re delighted with him,” he said. “We were hopeful going into the race on Saturday, but to see (jockey) Tom (O’Brien) still on the bridle going to the second last was nice to see. It was very exciting.”
Prestbury Park can be a different kettle of fish for young horses with a climb to the finish line, but Stephens admits that O’Brien is confident his mount is up to the challenge.
“Until you go to Cheltenham you never know for sure if they’ll handle it, but Tom is confident he’ll be fine,” he added.
“Going to the other way round definitely won’t be a problem and hopefully he’ll handle the track.”
