Now with Paul Nicholls, he was a smart horse on the level in Ireland for Michael O'Callaghan, earning a rating of 97 on the Flat, and showed a terrific attitude for a newcomer.
Up against two promising rivals in Look My Way and Embole, the 11-8 chance jumped immaculately throughout for Sean Bowen, winning by two lengths.
Act Of Valour runs in the colours of Max McNeil, who has had good juveniles like Walkon and Grumeti in the past. This is the first horse the owner has had with Nicholls.
"I was more nervous about him running than anything else today, because I think he is really nice," said Nicholls, who was at Newbury.
"He jumped well at home and has done well today. He didn't like the ground, according to Sean, but he looks a really nice juvenile.
"I don't know what we will do now. Today was his first start over hurdles, but he jumped well. We might look at Doncaster for the Grade Two there in a fortnight (Summit Juvenile), but we will talk to Max and see what he says. Nothing is set in stone.
"It's nice to have a first winner for the McNeil family, as they are great supporters of jumping and they have some really nice horses with other trainers, so it is nice to have a winner for them."