Its Bilbo defies top weight in Limerick for Henry de Bromhead

“Henry told me how to ride him and Robbie Power told me he had a big chance. Maybe the chasing stood to him," said Its Bilbo jockey Rob James

Rob James - riding his first winner for Henry de Bromhead - led Its Bilbo to victory in the QuinnBet Handicap Hurdle at Limerick. Pic: Healy Racing Photo.

Back over hurdles after two excursions over fences in recent weeks, Its Bilbo defied top-weight in the listed QuinnBet Handicap Hurdle in Limerick, second leg of an across-the-card double for his trainer Henry de Bromhead.

Its Bilbo, a 9/2 shot, travelled smoothly into the race for 7lb-claining amateur Rob James (riding his first winner for de Bromhead) and stayed on well to beat favourite Lenjoleur De Palma by a length and three-quarters, with three-year-old Combs a creditable third.