12-05-2025
- Business
- The South African
End of an era as Avontuur Estate closes breeding operations
In a deeply emotional moment for South African thoroughbred breeding, Avontuur Estate has officially closed its storied stud operations after nearly four decades of excellence.
Under the watchful eye and expert stewardship of general manager Pippa Mickleburgh, the Somerset West-based farm became a cornerstone of local bloodstock development, renowned for producing elite racehorses and standing champion stallions.
The estate, once home to legendary sires such as Var and Oratorio, will now continue solely as a wine farm, restaurant, manor house accommodation, events venue, and recreational hub.
However, in racing terms, the iconic barns and paddocks that once echoed with the sounds of future champions have now fallen silent.
Mickleburgh confirmed that the final transport carrier departed Avontuur Estate in early May, marking the end of a 35-year journey filled with triumphs, challenges, and unforgettable moments.
'This farm has been my life for 35 years. My blood, sweat and tears are in the soil,' Mickleburgh said, visibly emotional.
'Many of the staff have been around for 20 or even 40 years – they're like family. It's a very sad time for all of us.'
The decision to wind down breeding operations was made by the owners of the estate, with all horses – including 27 broodmares – relocated to Ridgemont, another leading South African stud operation.
Avontuur's impact on the industry is difficult to overstate.
Season after season, the farm produced Grade 1 winners, and most recently, it achieved a final flourish when the One World colt, Dreamworld, bred by Avontuur, won the Grade 3 Winter Nursery at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth.
Mickleburgh, attending the event, was visibly moved during the winner's lead-in.
'That was the final group winner for Avontuur while it was still an operational stud. It was incredibly emotional,' she said.
At last month's 2025 BSA National Yearling Sale, Mickleburgh attended her final sale as Avontuur's representative.
The standout colt October Rush (by Rafeef out of Grade 1 winner Miss October) was sold to Form Bloodstock for R4.25 million, topping the sale.
In total, Avontuur's seven yearlings fetched R6.45 million, with an average of R921 429.
Mickleburgh, whose tenure ends on 30 June, remains uncertain about her next chapter.
'I think I'll take a break. I need time to reflect. Avontuur is in my DNA, and watching it wind down has been very tough – physically and emotionally,' she said.
Though its breeding chapter has closed, the legacy of Avontuur Thoroughbred Farm will live on through the champions it produced and the lives it touched within the South African racing community.
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