Epsom Derby: Telescope eased in betting following gallop

Telescope galloped at Lingfield under Ryan Moore

Telescope was eased in the betting for the Derby at Epsom on June 1 after a "workmanlike" gallop before racing at Lingfield on Wednesday...

The Sir Michael Stoute-trained colt worked over seven furlongs with two stablemates to help compensate for missing his intended prep run in the Dante Stakes at York last week. Telescope is making up for lost time after grazes he sustained on his legs became infected.

The Highclere Thoroughbred Racing-owned three-year-old will now face a make-or-break gallop at Newmarket on Saturday to determine whether he runs in the Derby.

Stoute, who supervised Telescope's work at Lingfield, said: "We felt it was more of workmanlike display. He's worked with these horses this spring and has been more impressive than that.

"I felt that he didn't really switch off - even cantering down he was just taking a bit of a tug. Hopefully it will do him the power of good to get back to the racecourse as it's been a long time.

Telescope worked alongside stablemates Commend and the 95-rated Opinion at the Surrey venue.

Commend made the early running, with Opinion in second and the Ryan Moore-ridden Telescope, whose tongue lolled from his mouth throughout the gallop, at the rear.

The Derby aspirant was keen to get on with it from the outset, however, and galloped to the front two furlongs from home before crossing the line ahead of Opinion, and then Commend.

Highclere racing manager Harry Herbert was, like Stoute, also slightly downbeat.

He told At The Races: "Anyone watching that, especially those who have seen the horse work in the spring, would say he lacked that usual zip. He hasn't put in a performance that was as good as had been hoped.

"The final piece of work on Saturday is obviously going to be critical. The clock is ticking. We will see what his piece of work is like on Saturday before deciding whether to go all out for Epsom or not."

The son of Galileo sprang towards the forefront of the Derby betting after he won a strong Newmarket maiden last September, but is now trading at 12.011/1 for the premier race of the Flat season.

Get open access to Timeform data for just 2.50 a day with Timeform Race Passes. It's like a Form Book, Black Book & Race Card all in one! Find Out More!