We are excited and proud to present proven international sire Oratorio’s yearlings, on sale for the first time in South Africa, at the 2016 Cape Premier Yearling Sale, which takes place on 21 and 22 January at the CTICC.

With a total of 31 yearlings from this highly rated stallion in Book 1, and recent international Group wins by mature runners Mourinho and Military Attack, Avontuur Estate believes that his contribution to classic racing in this country will be immense. Oratorio has consistently been in the leading sires lists in Europe and with 7 international Group 1 winners to his name he is sure to be well received in SA as a proven sire of tough, sound, classic horses.

“We’ve had some exposure to him in this country with Ottimo, Orator’s Daughter and most recently Bella’s Empire strutting their stuff,” says GM Pippa Mickleburgh. “This sale is the culmination of a dream which started with his arrival at Avontuur in October 2013 and is now becoming reality. He was visited by an excellent calibre of mares in his first and second seasons and with the latest achievements by his international campaigners, has proven his longevity, consistency and toughness, which comes through in his progeny. “

From the Avontuur crop, Pippa is most excited about a muscular filly called Hot Chocolate out of excellent race mare Mochachino and the strong colt out of A Daughter’s Legacy called Ancestry. Another good looking colt is the half-brother to Contador out of Fine Wood, who is a racy attractive specimen.

Although much of the interest for this Sale is built around Oratorio, Avontuur is presenting some excellent Var’s as well with a well-grown flashy filly out of Baltic Beauty heading the list. “She is from the family of Mother Russia and has such a zest for life and lots of personality, I look forward to seeing more of her in future,” says Pippa. Rumbavar out of Muambo is another filly who is a full sister to multiple winner Varumba, and should be interesting to watch as well.

Interested buyers are welcome to make an appointment with Pippa at Avontuur Estate for a private viewing from 5 January to 15 January, or from the 19th at Avontuur’s Stud Lounge at the CTICC. Visit the Stud pages on www.avontuurestate.co.za for the full list of yearlings