Johngus and Stefan Tobin return to delighted connections© Photo Healy Racing
Stefan Tobin partnered his first winner under rules in Ireland when Johngus was successful in the Roche's Feeds Handicap Hurdle at Limerick.
The 20/1 shot was always handy in this two-mile race and jumped three out in second behind New Barn Lane
The front pair held a healthy advantage on the field approaching the home straight and it was Johngus who travelled the better to lead before two out.
A swift leap saw him increase the advantage and he kicked clear before the last. Tobin didn't have to get serious on Sean Aherne's charge who came in by four and a-half lengths from The Truant (6/1). New Barn Lane (9/2f) gave best in third, but was in front of Lorca (66/1).
Tobin said: "I had two point-to-point winners and also rode a winner for Mark Beecher in America.
"Mark and myself are Tallow-men (Waterford) and, while I went over before covid, everything got shut down so I came home before returning to America. Mark is doing well for himself, was very good to me and I rode a hurdle winner for him.
"I'm based with Sean full-time and will stay riding as an amateur."
Aherne added: "This is great altogether and is very important as these are the people who are working with you every day. Stefan rode that horse well.
"He is in again here on Friday, so we'll see how he is. He is a good fun horse and has handled this place in the past. It is nice to get this."
Additional reporting by Tom Weekes
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