Irish jockey Brian O’Connell has admitted that he believes Dunguib’s previous experience at Cheltenham will put him in the right frame of mind as he prepares for the Spinal Research Supreme Novices' Hurdle on Tuesday.

Philip Fenton’s 2009 Champion Bumper sensation is an odds-on shot to get the Festival off to a bang next week and punters are looking to side with a horse that can boast an unblemished record over obstacles.  With just a few days to go until he takes his chance, O’Connell confessed he can’t wait to get underway.

"We're looking forward to it. There'll be plenty of pressure and nerves, I'm sure, but it's good pressure to have," the jockey explained.

"All's well with the horse. I rode him out this morning and he was fresh and well.

"I'm sure we'll discuss tactics closer to the time. We'll walk the track and see how the ground ends up.

"The main thing is to get him into a rhythm and make sure he's happy, more so than anything else.

"He handled it last year and I can't see why he won't handle everything this year.

"He's normally on his toes in the parade ring. He can be very keen at times, but he is relaxing much better and relaxed pretty well in Leopardstown the last day.

"I was more happy and delighted that he relaxed. The fact that he's been to Cheltenham last year is a big plus with a big field.

"He has seen it all - the parade ring, the crowd and sampled the atmosphere.

"I'm sure the first race on a Tuesday will be more spectacular than the last race on a Wednesday

"He's been there and travelled over. He's a year older and more mature as well.

"I'm sure there are plenty of people waiting to see him run and I know some people see him as a banker.

"It would be great if he could win and get the Festival off to a good start.”

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