December 2005 Trivia for KTTC

Fate has the most uncanny way of dropping wild and wonderful opportunities into your lap when you least expect it.  The trick is to be ready when the drop is made.

In November, I was on my way to meet friends for dinner when I received a phone call from and Australian radio station wanted to interview me regarding my work the Secretariat Foundation.  I was – to say the least – shocked.

45 minutes later I found myself talking with Lisa of “Breakfast with Lisa” from the Land Down Under, and the reason for my participation became clear as soon as I heard the name Makybe Diva.  Having just been retired, a grateful racing nation was looking to create a fitting tribute to their heroine and wanted tips from the only horse of equal popularity in the States – our own “Big Red”. 

Makybe Diva had become a legend on par with Phar Lap – which is no easy feat.  She represents all that made racing great and could make it great again:  speed, charisma, heart and longevity. So let’s salute this grand mare with:

Diva Trivia

G’day, mates – and good luck!

1.  Does Makybe Diva’s breeding have a U.S. connection?

2.  How was her full name created?
Bonus:  What’s her nickname?

3.  Who is Makybe Diva’s owner and how did he earn his fortune?

4.  Name her regular jockey and the colors of his silks.

5.  True/False:  Lee Freedman has been Makybe Diva’s only trainer throughout her career

6.  Has Freedman any other Melbourne Cup winners to his credit?

7.  What special giveaway was offered to celebrate Makybe Diva’s career in 2005?

8.  Makybe Diva’s win in the 2005 Melbourne Cup resulted in three milestones – what were they?
Bonus:  True/False – the win in the 2005 clinched her first Australian Horse of the Year title.

9.  What is her preferred running style?

10.  What honor was recently bestowed on her by the Australian Sports Hall of Fame?

Rank correct answers:

Each correct answer counts for 2 points.

Bonus questions answered correctly count for 5 points.

30-40 points: I humble myself before your superior racing expertise. Grade 1 Winner!

20-30 points: Obviously a racing expert in the making. Graded stakes placed!

15-20 points: Allowance company and hoping to move up. Read more!

5-15 points: Claiming level, but needs to show improvement in form before next race. Read more!

0-5 points: Well, you may have stumbled out of the gate, but there’s always another race….keep trying!