Kayley Woollacott has cooled on the idea of pitching stable star Lalor into Grade One company at The Festival on the back of his brave weekend run.
The eight-year-old was being considered for the Ryanair Chase, but after finding a couple too good once again at the track, will remain in handicaps for now.
Off a mark of 153, 4lb higher than his short-head third in a thrilling three-way photo on New Year's Day, Lalor took the same spot in Saturday's Paddy Power 45 Sleeps To Cheltenham Trophy Handicap Chase.
A length down at the final fence, he kept on well up the run-in over the 2m 4f and connections felt a step up in trip could be beneficial.
"I was delighted with him," said Woollacott.
"It’s nice to see him running with a bit of consistency.
"He has never strung two runs together before that were any good for me, not without a long break inbetween.
"With a three week gap, we have probably come back quick enough but with the weather as it is and the races available we didn’t have much choice.
"He’s in the Ryanair but I would imagine he would avoid that. Aidan suggested the Festival Plate.
"He could go further in the future, he does stay. I think eventually he will end up over three miles."
