Holbien has broken a string of minor placings with a strong all-the-way victory in the JRA Handicap (1600m) at Caulfield.

Saturday’s victory by the Steve Richards-trained galloper was his first since winning over 1600m at The Valley last June.

Holbien fronted up on 12 occasions following that victory, registering four seconds and three thirds.

The gelding was challenged for the lead by Gold Fields prior to the home turn, but with the 3kg claim for Laura Lafferty, Holbien was able to shrug off that challenge and open up a winning break which he was able to hold in the run home.

Sent off the $1.95, Holbien raced to a four-length win from Leggionaire ($7.50) with Gold Fields ($10) a half-head away third.

Holbien has now won six races, along with eight seconds and nine thirds, from his 44 starts and is edging his way towards $600,000 in prize money.

“He’s been eight times a bridesmaid and we’ve been a bit frustrated, but today we’re over the moon,” Richards said.

“He was a fit horse and if ever a horse deserved to win a race, he certainly is one.

“He’s a pretty horse to ride and Laura rode him absolutely lovely.

“She’s a good little rider and hopefully this gives her a kick-along and she’s got a couple of winners in town now.

“It’s good for these apprentices to come along and get some winners and hopefully the phone starts ringing for her.”

Richards in a pre-race interview described Holbien as a grumpy old man sitting at a bar by himself.

He added following Saturday’s victory that Holbien might be a happy horse on Sunday.

“He might be pretty good tomorrow because I think he knows when he wins,” Richards said.

Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au