MARVELLOUS MAKYBE DIVA
In 2007, following her extraordinary feats of 2003-2005, the VRC Committee renamed the Craiglee Stakes, a weight-for-age event over 1600 metres, in the mare’s honour. The race achieved Group 1 status in 2013. Of her eight foals to race, six have been winners. She retired from motherhood in 2020 and is yet to leave progeny anywhere near the same class as herself but, if history follows form, watch out for progeny from her daughters. Genetics is an inexact science and stellar performers can often skip a generation. In 2020, Makybe Diva was on course parading before the running of the 2020 Lexus Melbourne Cup with her owner Tony Santic and jockey Glen Boss, leading her around the Flemington mounting yard. The only thing missing was her adoring fans as no patrons were permitted on course due to the pandemic. Last year, she was once again on course to greet her legion of fans on Crown Makybe Diva Stakes Day, what would prove to be her final public appearance before her passing. Racegoers at Flemington adored and celebrated her that day, with many stopping for pats, carrots and cherished photos. She died peacefully in February 2026, at the age of 26, following a brief battle with colic. Her final years were spent at Makybe Racing & Breeding in Gnarwarre, just west of Geelong in Victoria, a property founded by her owner, Tony Santic. Top left: David Hall plants a kiss on the mare after her first Melbourne Cup win. (Image: Mark Dadswell/Getty Images) Top right: Strapper Donna Stewart with Makybe Diva after the 2003 Melbourne Cup. Bottom left: Lee Freedman, Tony Santic and Glen Boss after Makybe Diva broke the 2000-metre track record in the 2005 Australian Cup at Flemington. (Image: Mark Dadswell/Getty Images) Bottom right: Parading at Crown Makybe Diva Stakes Day 2025.
MAKYBE DIVA EXHIBITION Don’t miss the opportunity to view a selection of Makybe Diva’s treasured racing memorabilia, on display in the thoroughfare between The Atrium and The Terrace.
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