Legendary Australian racehorse Makybe Diva has died, aged 26.
The three-time Melbourne Cup champion passed away Saturday following a sudden colic attack, a gastrointestinal issue which affects horses.
Makybe Diva was reportedly living in retirement at Santic’s property at Gnarwarre, where she died. Owner Tony Santic had famously announced the mare’s immediate retirement after her third successive triumph at Flemington in 2005.
“From the day she came into our lives, she was never just a racehorse, she was family,” Santic said in a statement. “She gave us moments Australia will never forget, but more than that, she gave us joy every single day.”
Makybe Diva was trained by David Hall to her 2003 Melbourne Cup victory before the Freedman brothers took over and oversaw wins in 2004 and 2005. Jockey Glenn Boss was on board for all three triumphs.
In addition to her trio of Melbourne Cups, Makybe Diva also claimed seven Group 1 races, including the VRC Queen Elizabeth Stakes, the Turnbull Stakes, and the Cox Plate. She retired with AU$14 million in career earnings.