Vilandry by VAR (USA) out of Amazon Lily, ridden by Felix Coetzee, trained by Vaughn Marshall, won by six lengths in the Betting World Maiden Juvenile Plate at Kenilworth on Saturday, 24 January. The colt was born at Avontuur Estate in 2006 from resident stallion, VAR.
Avontuur Estate GM, Pippa Mickleburgh, said that this was part of a positive pattern of results starting to emerge from races where VAR’s first progeny are participating. “We have 3 VAR yearlings on sale at Grandwest on 8 February 2009 with more earmarked for the national sales in April and we invite all interested buyers and trainers to pop in for a look,” she said.
“This is a very, very fast horse. He was 3 lengths up after the first furlong and when I asked him for his effort in the final furlong and he gave me two lengths” – Frankie Dettori
“The 15 runner Abbaye was VAR’s biggest test. He passed it with flying colours. He burned off the opposition with a devastating burst putting himself 3 lengths up after a furlong and another midway through the race” – British Racing Board.
“Showed blinding speed to make all up the centre of the track. His time of 55 secs was the fastest for years” – Racing Post.
“Certainly VAR is the fastest sprinter I’ve had, but then again, I don’t think many people have had one as fast as this”
“VAR was a top class horse who was tough, consistent and a gentlemen to train. The last horse I trained that went to South Africa was FOVEROS, who was champion sire many times and VAR looks a worthy successor.” – Trainer Clive Brittain.
“A very fast horse who got his just reward in the Prix de l’Abbaye, he is an extremely good looking horse with a fantastic temperament” – John Ferguson, Darley Stud Management.
