Legendary Australian mare Black Caviar has died peacefully of natural causes on Saturday, just one day before her 18th birthday.
The Australian icon tragically passed away following a brief battle with laminitis,
Black Caviar is one of the most celebrated racehorses in history, boasting an unbeaten record of 25 wins from 25 starts.
The Australian-bred mare dominated sprint races between 2009 and 2013, capturing the hearts of racing fans worldwide.
The death of Black Caviar left champion trainer Peter Moody in tears.
‘She had a colt this morning and then they put her down on humane grounds,’ an emotional Moody said.
‘They scanned her feet yesterday and there was no blood flow at all.
‘She had minimal blood flow in her feet anyhow as she was such a big girl.’
Jockey Luke Nolen riding Black Caviar wins race 7 the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes in 2013
‘I rang all the family and the staff, Paddy Bell and those close with her, and I sat in the car and cried for an hour as I was ringing them,’ Moody continued.
‘I have a bloke (from the stable, Giovanni Spiga) in hospital, and I haven’t shed a tear, but a horse has died, and I’m crying.
‘You don’t think it affects you, but it does. It’s impossible not to get attached to most animals, but one like her, you cannot but do so.
‘You get reminded of her almost every day whenever you turn on the TV, there she was shooting past the post.’
Black Caviar won 15 Group 1 races, including victories in prestigious events like the Newmarket Handicap, the Lightning Stakes, and the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Known for her incredible speed and determination, Black Caviar consistently outclassed her rivals, often winning by significant margins.
Her success earned her multiple awards, including being named Australian Horse of the Year three times.
Black Caviar retired in 2013, leaving behind an unmatched legacy in Australian horse racing.
The 25 wins from 25 start that Black Caviar achieved is unlikely to ever be beaten
Queen Elizabeth II Meets Black Caviar in 2011 at Ascot Racecourse which was founded by Queen Anne in 1711
Moody reflected on his time with the champion sprinter.
‘She was a remarkable horse who gave us all the ride of a life time and wonderful memories.’
The late Queen Elizabeth II was a noted fan of horse racing and had a special place in her heart for Black Caviar, meeting the champion Australian mare in 2012 at Royal Ascot.
Photos of the Queen gently patting Black Caviar’s nose and handing Moody the Diamond Jubilee trophy have a special place of honour in the master trainer’s home.
‘Things I’ll always forever hold and cherish,’ Moody said.
‘It’s hard not to be moved in the presence of someone like that, the thing that amazed me was her knowledge and understanding of the horse and wanting to learn about the horse.
‘You’d think all the horses she’d seen and owned and bred and whatever throughout the years, for her to take such an interest in our horse, my horse, it was a very proud thing to be a part of.’
Black Caviar retired in 2013 and was almost immediately inducted into the Hall of Fame
Victoria Racing Club chairman Neil Wilson extended his condolences on behalf of the club.
‘Black Caviar was more than a champion racehorse, she was an important part of life for many people,’ Wilson said.
‘Her brilliance, her presence and the pleasure and inspiration she gave to so many was a special moment in time for horse racing and sport more generally.
‘She has created a piece of history that will be remembered forever, and it was a privilege for all who saw this wonderful equine athlete in action.
‘Our heartfelt condolences go out to those close to her, including our friends in the ownership group. To Black Caviar’s trainer Peter Moody and jockey Luke Nolen, our thoughts are with you on this sad day.
‘She was simply the best.’
Trainer Peter Moody, left, has paid tribute to Black Caviar for ‘the ride of a lifetime’
Black Caviar was one of few race horses that transcended the sport and endeared itself to the wider Australian public, with tributes flowing on social media.
‘Very sad to hear of the passing of champion mare Black Caviar . Rest peacefully champ. Condolences to those who loved her,’ one fan posted.
‘So sad to hear Black Caviar. Passed away, what a horse. May you RIP, be free in the paddocks above. A beautiful horse,’ added another.
‘Man, Black Caviar passing away is terrible. What a horse. RIP big girl,’ lamented yet another.
Black Caviar was inducted into the Australian Racing Hall of Fame in 2013.
