The lightly raced Libation (Pins x Grand Echezeaux) secured his first win on Saturday in the running of the A$15,000 Geelong Travel Maiden Plate (1733m) at Geelong Racecourse.

Libation trialled as a two-year-old where he finished fourth and has come back into work having his first debut as a five-year-old just over two weeks ago. He was fresh up in his first appearance at the races where he took fourth place, running over 1800m. The Pins gelding has now broken his maiden status in his second start on the track for trainer Robert Hickmott.

Starting from barrier 5, Libation was ridden by Jack Hill, leading all the way and winning in a time of 1:47.55. He claimed his first win by one-length over Raj Mahal (Lonhro), who finished in second position, and First On Scene (Reset) in third place.

The Pins gelding is owned by Lloyd Williams, Nick Williams, Saskia Williams, Sir Peter Vela and Philip Vela. Libation was purchased at the 2011 Karaka Premier Sale from Pencarrow Stud.

Bred by Sir Peter Vela and Philip Vela, the five-year-old is out of Group 1 winning mare Grand Echezeaux (Zabeel), winner of the Group 1 Australasian Oaks. He is a half-brother to leading New Zealand sire Darci Brahma (Danehill), a five-time Group 1 winner, and Burgundy (Redoute’s Choice), winner of the Group 3 Cambridge Breeders’ Stakes.