Equus Champion 2-year-old filly Quid Pro Quo, in a transaction that will be finalised after the New Year when export blood tests have been cleared, has been sold to Team Valor International, following protracted negotiations lasting nearly a month. The purchase was spearheaded by Team Valor CEO Barry Irwin in concert with bloodstock agent Robin Bruss of Johannesburg.

A dual Grade 1 and Grade 2 winner, Quid Pro Quo is widely regarded as one of the finest fillies in South African racing today. Irwin, known for his sharp eye for talent, hailed this acquisition as one of his most inventive deals, underscoring its significance for Team Valor’s global objectives.

The filly cemented her dominance with a commanding victory in the Grade 2 Dingaans, outclassing a competitive field, including the odds-on favorite Greatrix, who finished third. Her recent exploits also include defeating subsequent Grade 1 Cape Fillies Guineas winner Fatal Flaw and Grade 3 Fillies Mile victor World of Alice.

Veteran jockey Piere Strydom, who has partnered both Quid Pro Quo and Fatal Flaw, described her as exceptional, stating, “She’s likely the best filly I’ve ever ridden.”

Oisin Murphy, the four-time UK Champion Jockey, also raced against her in the Dingaans and was notably impressed despite being outpaced in the stretch: “I really like that filly; she’s got quality. From what we know at the moment, she is a top filly. There’s every chance she’ll succeed on the global stage.”
Irwin revealed that because of the protracted negotiations and the need to complete bloodwork, travel on a scheduled flight next month to Europe will not include the filly, as there simply is not enough time to get everything done, transport her to Cape Town, do quarantine there and be prepared for the flight.

“While we don’t know when the next flight will take place, we would consider racing the filly again in the interim, realizing however that as soon as a suitable flight become available she will be on it, as our plans call for her to train in Europe in advance of a 3-race campaign in the winter of 2026 at Meydan in the United Arab Emirates.

“One cannot but hope that she could be the next Ipi Tombe and we plan to give her every opportunity to achieve the lofty international accomplishments of that former South African runner.

“South African racing has always been special to me, and I’ve made significant investments here,” said Irwin from his Florida holiday base. “Quid Pro Quo will carry the torch for Team Valor over the coming years and even possibly in South Africa if she isn't exported in time early next year.”

Should Quid Pro Quo be delayed in travel to Europe, she will race in the colours of Anant and Vaneshree Singh, representing a partnership including other Team Valor stakeholders.

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