A winner for Jessica Harrington last term, Blanc De Noir (15/2) recorded his first success for Johnny Murtagh in the concluding six-furlong handicap at Fairyhouse. 

Dropped in from a wide draw by Rory Mulligan, the Showcasing gelding got a clear run towards the outer in the straight and led close home to beat I'm Spartacus by half-a-length in the colours of JP Murtagh Racing.

"It was a long time coming, he's been a bit frustrating but it just fell right for him today," said the Curragh trainer.

“He's a horse that probably needs a fast pace, for them to die in front of him and come over the top.

“He gave him a peach of a ride and it all worked out well. 

“Six is good for him, he didn't get home last time over seven on heavy ground so six is probably ideal.” 

Quotes from Gary Carson