For Poke, it was further vindication of his decision to buy a poorly performed New South Wales horse for only $1500.

Poucher has now won two races in Tasmania and, along with numerous placings, has netted Poke a $32,000 return on his investment.

For Nicholls, it was her first win since relocating from Victoria.

Poucher had struggled to beat a runner home in four starts when Poke bought him from a vet at Goulburn.

``He had done nothing but he was by Snippetson, the same sire as another horse I bought up there, Bring Me Sunshine,'' the trainer said.

``That's the only reason I got him.

``Since we've had him, we've changed his racing pattern around and he's hardly missed a place.''

Nicholls brought Poucher, a $21 chance, with a late charge to beat Royal Beluga and Deceitful Cove in a blanket finish.