It is with great sadness that Racing Victoria (RV) acknowledges today’s passing of champion racehorse Black Caviar at the age of 18.
The Victorian-trained mare captured the hearts of the nation during her unbeaten 25-start career that included 15 Group 1 victories and over $7.9 million in earnings.
Black Caviar was crowned the world’s best sprinter on four occasions and Australian Racehorse of the Year three times.
She was trained throughout her career from 2009 to 2013 by Peter Moody and ridden by Luke Nolen (22 times), Jarrad Noske (twice) and Ben Melham (once).
The mare was owned by the Werrett, Madden, Wilkie, Hawkes and Taylor families after being purchased from the 2008 Inglis Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale for $210,000.
RV Interim Chief Executive, Aaron Morrison, said: “Black Caviar was the people’s champion and there is no doubt that her passing will touch many.
“The night Melbournians packed out Federation Square to watch her conquer the world at Royal Ascot was testimony to her popularity.
“Racing fans here and abroad are privileged to have witnessed a career that is unparalleled remaining unbeaten in 25 starts, all at the elite level.
“On behalf of Racing Victoria and the broader industry, I would like to extend our condolences to Peter Moody, Luke Nolen and her owners who loved her dearly.
“Black Caviar will be forever remembered as a champion of the Australian turf. She is a horse that brought joy to so many.”
The champion mare is honoured each February with the running of the Group 1 Black Caviar Lightning (1000m) at Flemington.