The emergence of exciting filly First Seal has again highlighted the success of Raffles Farm as one of the preeminent breeding and racing establishments in New Zealand. The success of the programs run under Dato Yap Kim San’s guidance have ensured the strike rate of Raffles as a source and selector of exceptional stock is among the best around.
Sacred Falls, the back-to-back winner of the Doncaster Handicap (Australia’s most prestigious mile handicap) and current favourite for the $3 million Cox Plate, is the current talisman for Raffles Farm but predecessors of their racing program include champion filly Shamrocker (1st AJC Australian Derby, 1st AJC Australian Oaks). Fellow stars Mr Baritone, Brazilian Pulse, Captain Fantastic and Alegrio are among the graduates of their breeding program.
“Hopefully First Seal can continue taking steps throughout her career to earn the right to be mentioned in the same company,” said Mr Teo Ah Khing, Chairman of the China Horse Club.
Mr Teo Ah Khing, Chairman of the China Horse Club
“She has only won a maiden race but every career has to begin somewhere and this is an encouraging start. The CHC and its members are now learning more about this promising young filly whose emergence is most exciting. Any lightly raced thoroughbred that surfaces ahead of a spring carnival brings with it great anticipation and First Seal is no different. She is a wonderful example of Dato Yap’s program at Raffles Farm. I know our members can’t wait to see her on the track again.”
First Seal has always been a filly of interest. From the moment she made her first public display at the Karaka Yearling Sales to her performance in Sydney yesterday at only her second career start, the strapping bay filly with the white blaze has caught the eye. The moment wasn’t lost on her notable collection of owners who include Dato Yap. First Seal was always a filly he had a high opinion of and, having been invited to stay in her, he jumped at the chance to continue his association.
‘First Seal as a yearling, a graduate of Raffles Farm’
“Racing is about experiences, shared experiences. This win was very exciting because it hints at so much to come,” added Mr Teo.
“To share this journey with Dato Yap and his family, with Dato Tan Chin Nam, with Tunku Ahmad Yahaya and with John Chua is tremendously exciting. What makes it even more rewarding is that First Seal is product of Dato Yap’s wonderful broodmare Episode and is a graduate of his Raffles Farm.”