The racing world is paying tribute to Australia’s greatest sprinter Black Caviar, who has died at age 18 after suffering laminitis.
The unbeaten star, who powered through 25 victories, 15 of them at Group 1 level, was euthanised at Scone Equine Hospital in NSW on Saturday, after foaling a colt by Snitzel.
News of her death prompted a wave of tributes for Black Caviar, who swept all before her for trainer Peter Moody and her ownership syndicate.
“She had an infection about a week ago and we just treated it like you do with all broodmares, But, like a lot of treatments, it went straight to her feet,” Moody told reporters.
“Basically, it killed her feet. She had the foal this morning, a colt foal by Snitzel and they put her down shortly after that on humane grounds.
“They scanned her feet yesterday and there was no blood flow at all to her feet. There was minimum blood flow to her feet anyhow but there was none and she’s such a big girl.
“I rang all the staff and told them. They were all very upset.”
Moody said the news of the death of the three-time Australian Racehorse Of The Year had hit him hard.
“You don’t think it affects you,” he said. “But you are being stupid not to think it doesn’t. It’s impossible not to get attached to most animals let alone one like her.”
Moody and Black Caviar went on a remarkable ride, which took in three Lightning Stakes victories, two wins in each of the TJ Smith, William Reid and VRC Sprint Stakes and her memorable success in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Her subsequent breeding career has seen her produce nine foals, five of which have raced for four winners. Among her yet to race progeny are the three-year-old Persian Caviar, who is by Written Tycoon, a yearling colt by The Autumn Sun and now a Snitzel foal.
She had been based with Mick Malone, first at Kitchwin Hills and then at his new North property over the past two years.
A daughter of Bel Esprit foaled on August 18, 2006, Black Caviar was bred by Rick Jamieson of Gilgai Farm and sold by Swettenham Stud at the 2008 Inglis Melbourne Premier Sale for $210,000 to Moody.
She was raced by a syndicate which involved Neil Werrett, Gary and Kerryn Wilkie, Colin and Jannene Madden, Pam Hawkes and David and Jill Taylor.
Bren O’Brien
They released a statement on news of her death,
"Black Caviar was a once-in-a-lifetime horse, most famous for her stellar racing career which saw her undefeated with 25 wins from 25 starts," it read.
"Since racing retirement, Black Caviar has continued her successes as a broodmare, with her legacy to continue through her sons and daughters."
"The ownership group are devastated, however will reflect on her glittering achievements not only in Australia where she transcended racing and captured the hearts of the public, but in England where she famously won the 2012 Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes (1200m) at Royal Ascot."
Luke Nolen, who rode the champion in 22 of her 25 races, said it was a privilege to be associated with Black Caviar.
“I was very fortunate to be in the position I was in, to be part of her wonderful career,” Nolen told reporters.
“Most riders would give their right arm to get a chance to be a part of chapter of racing history like I was, and I was fortunate enough I got to ride her most of her career.”
“It’s a little bit of a hollow feeling (right now), a blur, because she meant a lot to us."
“A bit numb, she was a wonderful part of my career.”
Racing Victoria 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.”
Black Caviar:
Starts: 25, Wins: 25
Group 1 wins: 15
Prizemoney: $7,953,936
Jockeys: (Luke Nolen – 22 wins, Jarrad Noske – two wins, Ben Melham – one win)
Australian horse of the year titles: Three (2011, 2012, 2013)
