Connections of Cheltenian have yet to decide whether to run at Cheltenham

Cheltenian: A decision will be made 'nearer the time'

Connections of Cheltenian have yet to decide whether to run their 2011 Weatherbys Champion Bumper hero at next month's Cheltenham Festival.

The seven-year-old made a highly-encouraging return after being sidelined through injury since then when touched off on the line by Minella Forfitness on his debut over hurdles at Doncaster last week.

The William Hill Supreme Novices' Hurdle would be his target should he go to Cheltenham in a fortnight's time. However, trainer Philip Hobbs has still to discuss plans with owner Roger Brookhouse.

"We thought we'd won, but the angles at Doncaster play tricks. He ran a fantastic race and we were very pleased," Hobbs told At The Races.

"We are undecided what we are going to do. If he does run at Cheltenham I'd imagine he'll be running in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle, the two-mile race.

"Whether we run now or find something easier and then go on to Aintree I need to talk to Roger about it. We'll see nearer the time."

One runner certain to go is Captain Chris and Hobbs believes he is good each-way value for the Gold Cup.

Winner of the Amlin 1965 Chase at Ascot in November, Captain Chris was only beaten a neck by Long Run in the King George VI Chase at Kempton and was second to Cue Card in the Betfair Ascot Chase, despite a bad mistake at the second-last.

"I think Captain Chris would have an each-way chance. He's a very big price at 20-1. He would be suited by good ground if we get it," said the Minehead handler.