Melbourne Cup dream is on with Vauban

Vauban booked his ticket for the Melbourne Cup with a convincing success in the Group 3 Ballyroan Stakes at Naas this afternoon.

The Willie Mullins-trained gelding had been so impressive on his return to the Flat at Royal Ascot when running out a wide margin winner of the Copper Horse Handicap.

He was sent to post a 4/6 shot in today's contest, over just shy of a mile-and-a-half, and it proved plain sailing.

Colin Keane tracked the leaders before sending his mount to the front over two furlongs from home.

The Galiway gelding galloped on strongly in the closing stages and always looked in control as he posted a length-and-a-half win over Valiant King

Assistant David Casey said afterwards:- “We're delighted with him and Colin was happy. He said they went a good gallop, a nice even pace, and it suited him.

“It ticked a box, which we were here for today, to get placed to qualify for the Melbourne Cup.

“I think there is plenty of improvement in him. He had a little break after Ascot and was ready to start back today.

“Everything was right today, there was a bit of ease in the ground and there weren't many runners so it suited to come today. We're obviously delighted with what he did.”

When asked if he could run in the Irish St Leger he added:- “He's in all those races but I don't know whether he'll have another run or not, or go straight there (to Melbourne). Willie will decide that.

“All those races are options, the Leger trial and the Leger. I don't know what he's going to do but he's entered in them all if he needs them.”

When asked if he could appear much over hurdles next season he said:- “I'd say yeah, why not. I'd imagine so but it depends on what happens. If he goes to Melbourne he doesn't get back to the middle of November so he wouldn't be running at Christmas anyway.”

Casey has put his hand up again for the trip to Australia and quipped:- “I'm booked and all, that's the only reason he's going! I need somebody to accompany me.”