Luke Nolen riding Black Caviar wins the Lexus Newmarket Handicap during Super Saturday at Flemington in2011. (Mark Dadswell/Getty Images)

Black Caviar: Queen of the turf

3 February 2025 • Written by VRC

With a firm place in the hearts of Australian racing fans, Black Caviar’s astonishing achievements before her retirement in 2013 re-ignited a passion for the sport. As we anticipate another stellar Black Caviar Lightning Race Day, we look back at her remarkable career.

The beginning of greatness

Some champions are born, and some are made. Black Caviar was both. Foaled on August 18, 2006, the imposing daughter of Bel Esprit and Helsinge was bred for speed but would become a legend. Trained by Peter Moody and owned by a loyal syndicate, she stepped onto the track with the promise of something special.

From the moment she debuted at Flemington in April 2009, winning by five lengths, it was clear that Australian racing had a phenomenon on its hands.

“Black Caviar quickly assumed a place in the national affection, the likes of which was reserved for Phar Lap.” – Gerard Whateley

The streak begins

Black Caviar was a force of nature. Over the next four years, she would line up 25 times and never know defeat – a feat unmatched in modern racing. With each dominant performance, her legend grew. She didn’t just win; she demolished fields, gliding over the turf with an effortless, economical action.

Her early victories in the Patinack Farm Classic (2010) and Lightning Stakes (2011) cemented her as the world’s premier sprinter. But this was only the beginning.

The perfect farewell

Upon her return home, the anticipation was whether she would race on. She did, extending her streak to 25 undefeated starts with final victories in the Lightning Stakes and TJ Smith Stakes in 2013. Then, as all great champions do, she bowed out at the peak of her powers, retiring in April 2013 as the undisputed queen of the turf.

A global sensation

Racing fans across the world took notice. Black Caviar wasn’t just winning – she was rewriting history. She secured an unprecedented 15 Group 1 wins, including three consecutive Lightning Stakes victories (2011-2013), a record still unmatched.

In 2012, she embarked on her most daring mission yet – Royal Ascot. Travelling halfway across the world for the Diamond Jubilee Stakes, Black Caviar carried the weight of Australian racing on her back. In a heart-stopping finish, she held off the fast-finishing Moonlight Cloud to win.

A legacy left behind

Black Caviar’s impact extended beyond the racetrack.

She inspired a new generation of racing fans, transcended the sport, and became a cultural icon.

Named World Champion Sprinter four years in a row (2010-2013), she remains a benchmark for greatness. Her influence continues through her progeny, ensuring her name remains woven into the fabric of Australian racing.

Luke Nolen riding Black Caviar winS the Diamond Jubilee Stakes during day five of Royal Ascot, England in 2012. (Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images)

A champion’s life

18 August 2006 - Born at Gilgai Farm, Victoria The filly who would become a racing phenomenon takes her first steps.

2009 - A star is born Debuts as a two-year-old, winning both of her first starts by five and six lengths.

2010-2013 - Unstoppable streak Dominates Australian racing with 25 consecutive victories, including:

2011 Newmarket Handicap - Carries a near-impossible weight to victory
2012 Diamond Jubilee Stakes (UK) - Triumphs at Royal Ascot, cementing her global status
2013 TJ Smith Stakes - Ends her career with a final, flawless win

2013–2024 - Retirement & legacy Black Caviar retired unbeaten in April 2013 and produced nine foals – five fillies and four colts – continuing her extraordinary lineage.

17 August 2024 - Passed away in Scone, one day before her 18th birthday.

Record-breaking moments

Draws 30,000 fans at Morphettville for her 20th consecutive win (where 900 was considered a strong crowd).
Earns $7.95 million in prize money.
Named World Champion Sprinter four times (2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013).