Telescope takes the Great Voltigeur

Telescope finally lived up to his billing with a convincing success in the Neptune Investment Management Great Voltigeur Stakes.

The Epsom Derby was high on the agenda for the three year old at the start of the campaign but a delayed reappearance and a subsequent defeat in a Haydock Group Three left his reputation dented.

Even connections admitted to being puzzled by his performance on Merseyside but they will be feeling far more content following the 5/4 favourite's one and a quarter length defeat of Foundry.

He was keen early in the hands of Ryan Moore on his first start over a mile and a half as he was settled in third behind Nichols Canyon and Cap O'Rushes.

Moore struck for home well over two furlongs out and quickly put three lengths between himself and the pack.

Although Aidan O'Brien's lightly-raced Foundry closed to within a length and a quarter, Telescope never looked like being caught.

Telescope would need to be supplemented for the Ladbrokes St Leger at Doncaster, but was also given quotes for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.

Moore said: "He's won the Voltigeur on his fifth start and has never been out the first two - he's not done a great deal wrong in his life."

Harry Herbert, managing director of Telescope's owners, Highclere Thoroughbred Racing, said: "It's such a relief for all involved with the horse, especially Sir Michael and his team. It's thrilling to see him do it so impressively.

"There was a feeling the Leger wouldn't work as he was showing so much speed early on but we'll have to have a good think and let the dust settle. Sir Michael will speak when he's ready."

Herbert added: "We might have to go to the well and supplement him for it (the St Leger). I know it sounds boring, but nothing is ruled out. There are races like the Arc, and I'm sure we'll just wait for the dust to settle and talk to Sir Michael."

Stoute said: "He's a big, scopey horse - let's hope he'll be a better four-year-old. Next stop is Newmarket back to Freemason Lodge, so there'll be plenty of time to think about it (the Leger)."

O'Brien said of Foundry: "We're delighted with him. He's just ready to be racing and it was a good run. He's in the Leger, so he'd be a definite possible."