Legendary Australian racehorse Makybe Diva has died at the age of 26 after a brief battle with colic, a gastrointestinal condition common in horses. Makybe Diva, renowned for her unmatched achievement of winning the Melbourne Cup three times, passed away on Saturday at her home farm in Gnarwarre, Victoria.
Owner Tony Santic expressed deep sorrow in a statement, saying, “From the day she came into our lives, she was never just a racehorse, she was family. She gave us moments Australia will never forget, but more than that, she gave us joy every single day.” Santic emphasized the love and admiration Makybe Diva received throughout her life, a sentiment echoed by many in the racing community.
Historic Achievements and Legacy
Makybe Diva’s legacy in Australian racing is profound. She became the first horse since Think Big in 1975 to win multiple Melbourne Cups, and she remains the only horse to achieve three consecutive victories, securing her place in history with her final Melbourne Cup win in 2005. That year, jockey Glen Boss rode her to victory, and commentator Greg Miles famously remarked it was the moment “when a champion becomes a legend.”
Her racing career included a total of 15 victories from 36 starts, with a remarkable prize money accumulation of $14.5 million. In addition to the Melbourne Cup triumphs, she also won the prestigious Cox Plate in 2005. Makybe Diva’s achievements led to her induction into the Australian Racing Hall of Fame in 2006, a testament to her status as a national icon.
Makybe Diva’s name is a unique tribute, derived from the first two letters of the names of five of Santic’s employees: Maureen, Kylie, Belinda, Diane, and Vanessa. This personal touch reflects the bond between the horse and her connections.
Tributes from the Racing Community
Following the announcement of her death, Neil Wilson, chairman of the Victoria Racing Club, paid tribute, stating, “Makybe Diva was more than a champion; she truly transcended the sport of racing. Her three consecutive Melbourne Cup victories stand among the most iconic achievements in Australian sporting history, and the memories she created will never be forgotten.”
Makybe Diva has left an indelible mark on Australian culture, celebrated not just for her racing prowess but also for the joy she brought to her owners, fans, and those who worked with her. As the racing community mourns her passing, she will be remembered as one of the greatest racehorses in history, a true champion who captured the hearts of many.
