L'un Deux Trois sprang a 20/1 surprise on his return to action in the first division of the mile-and-a-half handicap at the Curragh.

The Oliver McKiernan-trained gelding was making his first start since running over hurdles at Downpatrick just over a year ago. He had been second twice on the Flat last season.

Luke McAteer had his mount on the heels of the leaders and produced him to challenge early in the straight.

The Mastercraftsman gelding got to the front a furlong from home and held the late challenge of Crassus by half a length.

McAteer said afterwards:- “He travelled well. I was told to keep it simple, be handy, try and get him settled and don't get there too soon.

“I listened to the first half, not the second half, but he got the job done! He was taking it easy late on, he wasn't killing himself.”