National Emblem returned from a two months break to win Gowran's opening Irish EBF Supporting Champions Weekend Maiden today, scoring for owners Alpha Racing 2022, trainer Jessica Harrington and jockey Shane Foley.

The son of National Defense disputed the lead, before quickening to lead in the home straight and eventually held runner-up Lord Massusus by half a length.

Harrington later commented “he was good and professional although the ground was probably as quick as he wants. He did it well.

“Seven furlongs seems to be his trip and I think he’ll stay further in time. He was much more settled today than he was the first day in the Curragh.

“It’s great for Alpha Racing to get another two-year-old and they are having a great run of it at the moment.”

Quotes from Alan Magee