NEWS from the Irish National Stud where French champion two-year-old National Defense has his first mares in foal.

The son of the stud’s flagbearer Invincible Spirit is being heavily supported by some of Europe’s leading breeders.

Lanwades Stud’s Alta Moda, an unraced daughter of Sadler’s Wells and the dual Group 1 Champion Stakes winner Alborada, is his first mare to be scanned in foal.

She is already the dam of Shadwell Stud’s Ghutar, a winner of the £500,000 Tattersalls 2yo Millions Trophy.

Barouche Stud’s Albarouche will visit the Group 1 Prix Jean Luc Lagardare winner in the coming weeks.

Meridian Bloodstock’s Ghislain Bozo and Brian Williamson have had their mare Kibara scanned in foal, on one cover. Kibara is already the dam of Dubara, who was sold for 180,000gns at the Tattersalls December Sales last year, and she is a full-sister to classic star Milan.

Caipirinia, a daugher of Hawk Wing and half-sister to Native Khan, has produced the smart Show Me, and she is also now in foal.

National Defense stands for €12,000.