Triple Grade 1 winner  and sire of five Grade 1 winners internationally to date, impressive stallion Oratorio was launched yesterday at wine and thoroughbred farm, Avontuur Estate between Stellenbosch and Somerset West.    

More than 120 guests from all over South Africa attended the event where the long awaited moment eventually arrived as he was led onto the lawn in front of the manor house by head groom, Berthwell Arosi.  

Although calm and relaxed initially, he got a bit skittish later on what with the flashes going off and  noise levels climbing as the knowledgeable crowd voiced their admiration.  

Owner, Michael Taberer explained that he immediately knew the horse was meant for Avontuur after visiting him at world-famous Coolmore Stud in Australia, where he was one of their star performers.

 “Not only is he physically stunning with an impressive pedigree and a great record in racing, but his relaxed demeanour and calm temperament also appealed to me immediately,” he said.  

Although all of Oratorio’s current Gr 1 winners are based in different countries around the world, his progeny already in action in South Africa like Orator’s Daughter , Ottimo and Rivatorio are doing great things locally, and we can look forward to many more exciting moments from this highly rated international sire.

  His stud fee is at R80 000 for this year,