Augustin stretches clear under Patrick Mullins© Photo Healy Racing
Augustin completed a double for champion trainer Willie Mullins when scoring at the third time of asking in the bumper at Thurles.
Patrick Mullins sent the 7/4 favourite to the front early in the straight, and the French-bred grey stayed on strongly inside the final furlong.
The Martaline gelding had five lengths to spare over Justmemyselfandi (well-backed on track from 8/1 into 7/2) at the line. Everyday Everyhour was another three quarters of a length back in third.
The champion trainer was on the mark earlier on the card with Burgas (4/6) in the two-mile maiden hurdle.
Patrick Mullins said, "It looked a competitive race and before the race any of the seven could have won. He was backward behind the bridle last year but is one who could continue to improve.
"He'd be a great three-mile horse and is very relaxed and stays going very well. He is one who should give his owner plenty of fun and it's probably best to wait and go for a winners' bumper with him next (before going jumping next season)."
When asked about Annie Power's entry at Punchestown next week, he added "She's entered on Wednesday and has the option of running. She's fine and worked well this morning but (whether or not she runs) I'm afraid I can't read Willie's mind!"
(TW & AM)
