Numerian on track for Group race glory as new Flat season begins at Naas

The new Irish Flat turf season began at Naas on Monday, and while it was more of a muted start than normal as racing in the country takes place behind closed doors, it still demonstrated the sport's willingness to soldier on in the face of adversity.

Last year's beaten Derby favourite Sir Dragonet was out early to blow away the cobwebs for Aidan O'Brien, but instead it was son Joseph who carried away the spoils in the Listed Devoy Stakes with Numerian.

An improving three-year-old at the end of 2019, Numerian showed a fine attitude in victory as he battled his way through a small gap for Declan McDonogh inside the last furlong and won by two-and-three-quarter lengths from the 8-15 favourite Sir Dragonet.