Hans Holbein gave O'Brien his 1st winner of new season © Photo Healy Racing
Joseph O'Brien got back to winning ways on the Flat when partnering Hans Holbein to success, for his father Aidan, in the Bulmers Live At Leopardstown Summer Racedays 2015 Maiden.
The Montjeu colt jumped out in front in the ten furlong contest and galloped on strongly in the closing stages to score by two-and-three-quarter lengths.
The Dermot Weld-trained newcomer Valac was sent off the 8/11 favourite but couldn't pick up the eventual winner in the straight, eventually finishing runner-up.
Hans Holbein had been turned over at a short price himself earlier in the month when second on his return to action at Cork.
"It's nice to get one," said the rider after partnering his first winner of the season.
"He relaxed well and got an easy lead. He seems to handle a little give in the ground and I think he can step up in trip.
"He improved plenty from Cork and hopefully he can progress again. There was plenty of chat beforehand about the other horse and I was expecting him to come at me.
"Our horses always improve from their first run."
