Makybe Diva, Three‑Time Melbourne Cup Champion, Dies at 26

Owner Tony Santic said the mare, who earned $10 million in prize money, died after a brief bout of colic at her retirement stable near Geelong. Santic, a Croatian‑born tuna fisherman, named the horse after the first letters of his employees’ names and called her family.

Jockey Glen Boss, who rode Makybe Diva in all three Melbourne Cup victories, said the horse left a huge footprint in Australian racing history. The Victoria Racing Club posted that Australia is “faring a true legend” in mourning her loss.