After more than a year of waiting, the first foals by globally proven and respected stallion Oratorio, are being born in South Africa and they do not disappoint.

Avontuur Estate General Manager Pippa Mickleburgh, where Oratorio stands, has this to say: “With a confirmed total of 44 international stakes winners to his name, he is holding his own on the international stage, and the South African chapter seems to be starting off on a high. His first foals reflect many of his own strengths and are described as strong, sturdy, robust and balanced.”

A highlight around his first SA crop include the quality of the foals out of maiden mares like Gr 1 winner Bambina Stripes and Varsity Queen, who is a full sister to Schiffer. “We often find that first foals out of maiden mares are smaller and more delicate than later crops, but in Oratorio’s case these new moms have thrown exceptional foals,” Pippa continues.

Encouraging reports are being recorded from other breeders like Gary and Jackie Joliffe of Golden Touch Thoroughbreds who are impressed with their Oratorio colt out of Rose Garden, who is the half-sister to champion race horse Soft Falling Rain.

Henry and Pat Devine are thrilled with their superb colt out of Scarlett Causeway by Giants Causeway. Highlands Farms are excited to report that the dam of Soft Falling Rain, Gardener’s Delight was delivered of a stunning filly, who seems set to follow in her famous family’s footsteps.

Pam Lowe is over the moon with her magnificent filly out of Key to Heaven and Backworth Stud in KZN reports a tall, strong, leggy colt out of Lewinsky’s Lover.

Avontuur’s own champion race mare, River Jetez (pictured) and talented A Daughter’s Legacy recently had impressive foals sired by Oratorio too which adds to the positive impressions. With his book full for the year with a group of outstanding mares, we look forward to an exciting future for his progeny in South Africa.