Benny back in winners enclosure

Snugsborough Benny gained his second win over timber when claiming the amateurs handicap hurdle at Limerick under a confident ride from Richie Deegan.

The well supported 5/4 favourite (from 7/4 on course) was held up in the early stages of the two-mile six-furlong contest before jumping into contention four from home.

Liam Cusack 's charge was disputing after the next and asserted turning for home.

Deegan asked his mount for an effort after the second last and he had plenty in reserve in the closing stages, recording a two-and-a-half length success, as long-time leader Whoyakodding plugged on in second.

The winner had been a fourth close at the track earlier in the month and had won his previous start at Tipperary.

"He came to me last autumn having run in five point to points and fifth was as close as he got. On his first run for me, he was beaten just half a length and then won his next run by ten lengths,” said Cusack.

"I'd say the ground was just a bit quick for him the last day and it went soft out there today and we weren't sure how he'd handle it but the race cut up when a few came out. You're never unhappy when they come out and I was quite hopeful!

"It's great to win another race for the owner/breeder (Ray Loughnane); this is a very competitive country and any time you have a winner, I tell you it's great. We'll look for something similar next and down the line he is more of a chaser."

(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)