Ascot glory again for O'Brien and Spencer

Fame And Glory bounced right back to his best to land the Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup at Ascot.

Aidan O’Brien’s Gold Cup hero had turned in two dismal displays since his fantastic win at the Royal meeting back in June, but Jamie Spencer was positive from the off and always going well.

Taking up the running after a couple of furlongs, the 3-1 chance looked full of zest at the head of affairs, and as Spencer wound things up in front, only Opinion Poll looked a threat.

As Frankie Dettori’s run flattened out, Spencer was able to ease up a little in front as he won by a length and a quarter from Opinion Poll, with a nose back to the fast-finishing Colour Vision.

O'Brien said: "Everybody knew his big day this year was the Ascot Gold Cup, and he was trained very hard for that. Out of respect to the horse we had to be kind to him after that.

“We chased him hard for the Gold Cup and didn’t want to do that to the horse twice in a year. He had his break and had his two nice comebacks and we’re delighted with him today.

“Jamie gave him a great ride and got the horse into a lovely rhythm. He’s got so much class.

“Next year is a decision for everybody else, it would be great to come back (for the Gold Cup), but obviously it is down to the lads and Dr Hay. It’s been a privilege to have him this year and to have him next year would be great.”