Melbourne Cup legend Makybe Diva has died, aged 27.<\/p>\n
Makybe Diva, who completed an unprecedented and likely never to be repeated Cup hat-trick 2003-05, passed away on Saturday morning after a sudden battle with colic.<\/p>\n
Makybe Stud paid tribute to its beloved sporting icon.<\/p>\n
\u201cA once-in-a-generation legend, Makybe Diva captured the imagination of the nation and the admiration of the global racing community,\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n
\u201cHer career was defined by courage, endurance and historic achievement.<\/p>\n
\u201cToday, Makybe Diva remains the only horse in history to win three consecutive victories in the Melbourne Cup in 2003, 2004 and 2005.\u201d<\/p>\n
Makybe Diva was crowned Australian Champion Racehorse in 2005 after multiple Group 1 triumphs including the Cup, Cox Plate, Australian Cup and Turnbull Stakes.<\/p>\n
She entered the Australian Racing Hall of Fame in 2006.<\/p>\n
Proud owner Tony Santic cherished and cared for the national treasure for about 28 years.<\/p>\n
Makybe Diva winning The Melbourne Cup for the third time.Source: News Corp Australia<\/p>\n
\u201cFrom the day she came into our lives, she was never just a racehorse she was family,\u201d Santic said.<\/p>\n
\u201cShe gave us moments Australia will never forget, but more than that, she gave us joy every single day.<\/p>\n
\u201cShe was loved from the beginning and she stayed loved for her whole life.\u201d<\/p>\n
Makybe Diva, who retired from breeding in 2019, produced nine foals including five winners from seven to race.<\/p>\n