One of Australia’s best ever race horses, Makybe Diva, has died.
In a post to social media on Saturday, the breeding farm where she was based, Makybe, confirmed the 3 time Melbourne Cup winner had passed away.
”Australia has lost a true icon,” the post said.
”Three time Melbourne Cup champion Makybe Diva has passed following a sudden battle with colic. For 27 years she was loved by owner Tony Santic and adored by a nation. More than a racehorse, she was heart, history and pride in motion.”
Australia has lost a true icon. Three time Melbourne Cup champion Makybe Diva has passed following a sudden battle with colic.
For 27 years she was loved by owner Tony Santic and adored by a nation.
More than a racehorse, she was heart, history and pride in motion. pic.twitter.com/nlc26uM3jm— MAKYBE (@MakybeS) February 28, 2026
The super mare won the 2003, 2004 and 2005 Melbourne Cups with Glen Boss on board, while also managing to win the 2005 Cox Plate.
Boss paid tribute to the super mare on Saturday.
She was brilliant right to the end. What can we say? She just left such an incredible footprint in Australian sport. Not only in racing, she went far beyond that. She was the gift that kept giving,” he said.
”I don’t think we’ll ever see this ever happen again in our sport, to do what she did. Going up on weights, logistically to have an animal that, an athlete that good on that particular day going up on weights, it just defies any logic.”
”But she was an absolute champion. So today’s a celebration of her legacy, what she’s done, what she’s done for me personally. I cannot thank her enough. I was privileged to see her only a couple of months ago. She looked so gorgeous, her eye was clear, her skin was amazing, her feet were really well.”
“But I had a sense… this might be the last time I see her. But what a moment we had. So for me, so many great memories. It’s a sad day, but what a day. What a gift that she was.”
“So girl who I called mum, here is to my girl. We love you mum. Sleep well. Thank you for the memories.”
Owner Tony Santic famously retired Makybe Diva after her last Cup triumph. The mare won 7 Group 1s, including the Queen Elizabeth and Turnbull Stakes.
She was inducted to the Australian Racing Hall of Fame in 2006.
