Cheltenham target for Bay

John McConnell is eyeing an early trip to Cheltenham with his promising juvenile hurdler Orgilgo Bay.

The three-year-old, who was smart on the Flat and finished second to Battle Of Marengo in the Beresford Stakes at two, scored at the first time of asking over hurdles at Punchestown in good style.

McConnell views him as a serious prospect and feels an early sighter at Cheltenham could prove beneficial in the long run.

"He's in good form since Punchestown and the plan is to go for the Triumph Hurdle Trial at the Paddy Power meeting at Cheltenham next month. That will tell us where we stand," said the County Meath-based handler.

"If it came up quick we wouldn't go, but I don't think they will have the ground quick for the Paddy Power as it's one of the biggest meetings of the year. If it's good ground it will be fine. I don't think he needs bottomless ground, but yielding would probably be perfect.

"We left a bit to work on before Punchestown and he was hampered at three or four hurdles. That could have affected his confidence but it didn't, and we were thrilled with the performance."