First Resort backed up the promise of his debut success with a valiant second behind impressive winner Showcase in the G2 Saratoga Special on Saturday, 10 August.
The Uncle Mo homebred had made all when taking an Ellis Park maiden by three and a half lengths and once again raced forwardly, establishing a narrow lead on the inside of Ace It after the first quarter-mile.
Flavien Prat kicked on First Resort turning in and the Eoin Harty-trained colt found plenty for pressure in the straight, establishing a length advantage passing the furlong-pole.
Showcase ranged up behind First Resort and readily closed on the Godolphin runner after finding space, breezing into the lead just inside the final half-furlong before being eased close home.
First Resort stayed on gamely to go down by three and a quarter lengths, crossing the line a neck in front of third home Smoken Wicked.