By Alan Carasso
Dagmar (SAf) (f, 2, Querari {Ger}), the first yearling ever purchased by China Horse Club at auction in South Africa, belied longshot odds of 18-1 to break her maiden at first asking in Saturday's Listed Ruffian S. (1000mT) at Turffontein.
Ridden by Muzi Yeni for trainer Mike de Kock, the 18-1 gamble hopped at the break, but tugged her way up into a prominent position while racing with some cover on the far side. Called upon entering the final three-sixteenths of a mile, she showed a quick burst of energy to open daylight and went on to defeat the more experienced Urban Oasis (SAf) and River Rafting (SAf) to lead home a 1-2-3 finish for her Maine Chance Farms-based stallion.
Maine Chance bred Dagmar from the multiple stakes-placed Daffodil Day (SAf) (Silvano {Ger}), herself a daughter of GSW Day Lily Delight (SAf) (Cordoba). The latter's brother Bilboa was a Grade 3 winner and third in the G1 South African Derby. Maine Chance also consigned Dagmar to the 2017 Cape Premier Yearling Sale, where she was selected and signed for by CHC's Michael Wallace at R450,000 (US$33,120).
“She is a nice sharp filly, not overly big, but is quick and I'm am delighted for China Horse Club,” Flanagan said. “This is the Club's first winner in South Africa and for it to be a listed race with my old boss de Kock is a bonus.”
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