An early speed battle between defending champion Marocchino and Zouman set it up for Numerian (IRE) to return to the winner's circle in Saturday's $300,000 Group II Ted Van Heemst Stakes (2100m) at Ascot.
Clint Johnston-Porter enjoyed that (image Western Racepix)
Troy Turner was determined to take up the running on Marocchino, who won the early speed with Rachel King on the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained Zouman, while Clint Johnston-Porter landed in the perfect stalking spot on Numerian (IRE).
The daring tactics looked likely to pay off for Marocchino when he dashed clear on straightening as Zoumain attempted to run off the track, interfering with Numerian (IRE).
Once balanced up, the Annabel Neasham-trained gelding overpowered Marocchino (Maschino) by two lengths, with Casino Seventeen (Casino Prince) back in third.
It was the first win for the son of Holy Roman Emperor (IRE) since the $1,200,000 Group II BRC The Q22 in June last year.
Numerian (IRE) defeated Sir Dragonet in the Listed Devoy at Naas and was multiple Group placed when trained by Joseph O'Brien.
The Teme Valley colour-bearer advances his record to six wins, ten seconds, and four thirds from 41 starts with earnings of $2,572,173.
Bred by Whisperview Trading, Numerian (IRE) is the best of four winners from five to race out of the unraced High Chaparral (IRE) mare Delicate Charm.
Numerian's 4-time winning sister Too Precious is the dam of this year's outstanding 2-year-old filly Porta Fortuna (Caravaggio)
Trained by Donnacha O'Brien, Porta Fortuna won the Group 1 Cheveley Park Stakes, was runner-up in the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes and Group 1 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf, and was third in the Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes.
