Makybe Diva creates Melbourne Cup history

Carrying a record 58 kilogrammes (127.6 pounds) for a mare, Makybe Diva, owned by South Australian tuna fisherman Tony Santic, was the favourite in the A$5.1 million US$3.8 million, ?3.2 million) race over 3,200 metres.

Santic said it would be Makybe Diva’s last race and that she would retire.

"I think to ask any more of this mare would not be fair," Santic said.

Makybe Diva was ridden by Glen Boss, who was aboard the horse on both previous Cup wins and also rode her to victory ten days ago in the Cox Plate, a major pre-Melbourne Cup race. "What a great mare, she’s just unbelievable, and gives you so much confidence," said an emotional Boss while still aboard Makybe Diva on the track.

On A Jeune was second, 1 1/4 lengths back, and Xcellent half a length further back in third.

Makybe Diva, which surged to the front with 200 metres (yards) to go, has won 15 of her 36 starts and earned more than A$14.5 million (US$10.8 million, ?9 million) in prize money.

Makybe Diva was named by taking the first two letters of the names of five women who work in Santic’s tuna factory — Maureen, Kylie, Belinda, Diane and Vanessa.

Trainer Lee Freedman waited until yesterday morning to make a final decision on whether Makybe Diva, which does not run well on a hard track, would start.

Flemington officials watered the track on Monday, softening it up slightly and enabling Freedman to give her the start and the horse’s chance at history.

"We will never see anything like her again," Freedman said in the winner’s circle.

He agreed with the decision to retire Makybe Diva.

Boss, who became the first jockey to win the Melbourne Cup three consecutive years, said yesterday’s race was one of his easiest rides.