Black Caviar, undefeated Australia mare, dies at age 18
Black Caviar, a three-time horse of the year in Australia who never lost in any of her 25 races, died Saturday at age 18, the Victoria Racing Club said in social-media and website posts.
Reuters and Nine Network reported that she was euthanized shortly after giving birth to her ninth foal.
“It is with deep sadness that the Madden, Hawkes, Wilkie, Taylor and Werrett families wish to advise that champion mare Black Caviar passed away peacefully today,” the VRC said. “Since racing retirement, Black Caviar has continued her successes as a broodmare with her legacy to continue through her sons and daughters.”
Dominant as she was in her native Australia, the daughter of Bel Esprit stamped her legacy with a signature win in the 2012 Group 1 Diamond Jubilee at Royal Ascot. In spite of her jockey Luke Nolen misjudging the finish line, she held on to win by just a head in her only international start.
“She was a remarkable horse who gave us all the ride of a life time and wonderful memories,” her trainer Peter Moody said.
After Jarrad Noske rode the 2-year-old filly’s first two wins, Nolen took over for the rest of Black Caviar’s career. They paired for 15 Group 1 victories, including three times in a race that would be renamed because of her.
“The VRC was privileged to have Black Caviar race at Flemington and to have the Lightning Stakes named after her in 2013,” VRC chairperson Neil Wilson said.
Black Caviar was retired in 2013 with A$7,953,936 in purse money. At the time that converted to US$8,354,416.
“Today’s news is a shock to us all. 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.”
Although Southern Hemisphere horses have simultaneous birthdays every Aug. 1, Black Caviar died one day before the actual 18th anniversary of her foal date.