Black Caviar: Australia's undefeated racing legend

17 August 2024 • Written by VRC

Australia's undefeated racing champion recorded 25 wins from 25 starts, including some legendary performances at Flemington. We look back at her record-breaking feats.

Black Caviar, born on August 18, 2006, at Gilgai Farm in Nagambie, emerged as one of the most extraordinary thoroughbreds in Australian racing history. Her unparalleled career, spanning from 2009 to 2013, not only captivated the nation but also reignited passion for horse racing across Australia, with many of her most memorable victories taking place at the iconic Flemington Racecourse.

Unmatched Racing Career

Black Caviar's dominance was evident from her debut as a two-year-old in 2009, winning her first two starts by impressive margins of five and six lengths. Her meteoric rise continued, culminating in an astounding 25 consecutive victories, including 15 at Group 1 level, before her retirement in April 2013. Many of these triumphs occurred at Flemington Racecourse, the premier racing venue in Australia.

Black Caviar winning the 2011 VRC Sprint Classic (1200m) at Flemington on Stakes Day.

Flemington's Finest Moments

Flemington Racecourse, home to the Victoria Racing Club (VRC), played a significant role in Black Caviar's career. Her performances in the Lightning Stakes at Flemington were so remarkable that in 2013, the race was renamed the Black Caviar Lightning in her honor. This Group 1 race, run over 1000 meters on Flemington's famous "Straight Six," continues to be a highlight of the racing calendar.

Black Caviar returns to scale after winning the 2013 Black Caviar Lightning. (Vince Caligiuri/Getty Images)

Cultural Phenomenon

Black Caviar transcended the world of racing, becoming a cultural icon that drew unprecedented crowds to racetracks, especially Flemington. Her appearances shattered attendance records, with fans flocking to witness her incredible speed on Flemington's hallowed turf. This phenomenon extended across every mainland state of Australia, cementing her status as a national treasure.

Jockey Luke Nolen rides Black Caviar out to the track before her 23rd consecutive race win in the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes. (Scott Barbour/Getty Images for the VRC)

Global Recognition

The mare's exceptional talent earned her the title of World Champion Sprinter four times, as ranked by the World Thoroughbred Racehorse Rankings. This international acclaim solidified her position among the greatest racehorses in history, with many of her most impressive performances taking place at Flemington Racecourse.

2013 Black Caviar Lightning. (Getty Images)

Legacy Beyond the Track

Since retiring, Black Caviar has continued to make headlines as a broodmare, producing foals including:

Oscietra: A bay filly by Exceed and Excel, who won two races from five starts

Prince of Caviar: A colt by Sebring, who broke his maiden in September 2018. He now stands at stud at Riverbank Farm

Three fillies: Sired by Snitzel, More Than Ready, and I Am Invincible respectively

The racing world eagerly anticipates the potential of these offspring, hoping to witness the emergence of another champion from Black Caviar's illustrious lineage, perhaps one day gracing Flemington Racecourse like their famous dam.

Black Caviar with her Written Tycoon foal in 2022. (News Corp)

Black Caviar's impact on Australian racing, particularly at Flemington, is immeasurable. Her undefeated record, coupled with her ability to draw massive crowds and ignite public interest, has secured her place as one of the most significant figures in the sport's history, and whose legacy is forever intertwined with the story of Flemington Racecourse.

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