Piere "Striker" Strydom has been confirmed as the jockey for Quid Pro Quo, the star filly owned by Team Valor, in the upcoming Gr2 Gauteng Fillies Guineas.

The American ownership group has shown unwavering confidence in the current team of trainer Barend Botes and veteran jockey Piere Strydom.

"They’ve done a wonderful job so far, and we hope the success continues. Barend has guided this filly to multiple Grade 1 victories, and we’re delighted to maintain this partnership while she remains in South Africa,"

Irwin was equally complimentary about Strydom, saying:

"He’s simply a world-class jockey with over 5,500 career wins. We trust him to deliver when it matters most."

Although Quid Pro Quo has drawn a wide gate in the Fillies Guineas, Team Valor has chosen to keep her in the fillies’ division rather than consider the colts’ equivalent.

"We prefer to stick to the fillies' races," Irwin concluded.

Trainer Barend Botes expressed to SAHorseracing.COM his enthusiasm, stating:

"With the sale of Quid Pro Quo concluded, we are very excited to continue the journey with her in the colors of Team Valor. I would like to thank Mr. Irwin for the opportunity to continue training her, and I trust we will maintain a successful campaign!”

Jockey Piere Strydom was equally thrilled, saying:

"Oh yes, I’m very excited to ride Quid Pro Quo. She is the best filly in the country. She’s the kind of horse that keeps me riding. She’s a top-class filly, and I want to thank Mr. Barry Irwin and Team Valor for allowing me to reunite with her."

The Fillies Guineas is part of Day 1 of The Championships, which features the first legs of both the South African Triple Crown and the Triple Tiara, making it a pivotal event on the racing calendar.