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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

Emperor rules supreme for McManus

Wed 9th Apr 2014, 15:19

Noble Emperor is pushed clear by Mark WalshNoble Emperor is pushed clear by Mark Walsh
© Photo Healy Racing

J P McManus’ familiar colours were back in the winners’ enclosure for the second time in the space of half-an-hour as Noble Emperor took the INH Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle in commanding fashion.

McManus also took the opener narrowly with Moonlight Boy but this six-year-old son of Spadoun really filled the eye.

Mark Walsh sent him to the front approaching the penultimate flight, and the 6/4 favourite drew clear to beat outsider Drumacoo by 13 lengths. Royal Vic set a solid pace in front which had the 17-runner field well strung out after halfway, and he kept on to take third spot.

Surprisingly Noble Emperor was allowed to go off at 16/1 when taking a bumper in fine style at Navan last month, and was subsequently purchased by McManus.

Winning trainer Tony Martin said, “He did it grand, and is a big old fashioned type of horse. We were going to start him off in point-to-points but decided to give him a shot at a bumper instead.

“His next run depends on what way the ground goes up above (Fairyhouse and Punchestown), and he may go chasing next season.”

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.