Telescope, once a big hope for this year’s English Derby, made an impressive return to the track when turning the three-runner Conditions Stakes into a procession at Leicester.
The Sir Michael Stoute-trained colt made such a big impression in two runs as a juvenile that he headed into the winter as a leading ante-post fancy for the premier Classic.
However, the dreams of owners Highclere Thoroughbred Racing were shattered when he failed to go to Epsom after a couple of setbacks earlier this year, ultimately disappointing in a crunch racecourse gallop at Lingfield.
The 1-2 favourite got a good lead from Centurius before jockey Ryan Moore asked him for an effort three furlongs from home.
As Centurius faded away, Telescope galloped on strongly and passed the post 24 lengths clear with Godolphin’s Mulakim second.
Stoute, having his 50th winner of the campaign and making a rare visit to Leicester, said: “We were planning to go to the Dante with him earlier in the year and not come here, but we have brought some nice horses here in the past.
“We were checking the ground all the time like a lot of trainers as we didn’t want it too firm. They have done a good job as there’s a good cover there.
“It’s been frustrating, especially for the connections, but hopefully we can get on our way now.
“He’s got quite a few possibilities. The main thing is he’s had his workout. We’ll see how he comes out of it and in a week’s time think of the next move.”
Telescope is owned by a Highclere syndicate that includes former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
