Spring is well and truly underway, with the biggest names in racing returning to the track in preparations for the busiet time of the year.
The running of the $750,000 Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes will see some of the country's best middle-distance gallopers take to Flemington Racecourse in a high-profile weight-for-age event on September 16th.
I'm Thunderstruck took out last year's race, while other past winners include Humidor, Shocking and Mahogany.
Here's everything you need to know ahead of the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes.
What is the Makybe Diva Stakes?
Formerly known as the Craiglee Stakes, the race earned Group 1 status in 2013 and is contested over 1600m.
The name was changed in 2007 to honour the legendary Makybe Diva, who won three consecutive Melbourne Cups during her successful career.
When is the 2023 Makybe Diva Stakes?
This year's Makybe Diva Stakes raceday will take place on Saturday, 16th September.
The race will be the seventh on a 10-race card at Flemington and will jump at 3.40pm AEST.
How to watch the 2023 Makybe Diva Stakes
This year's Makybe Diva Stakes will be broadcast live on Sky Racing.
Makybe Diva Stakes 2023 tickets
To purchase tickets for this year's Makybe Diva Stakes, click here.
Makybe Diva Stakes 2023 prize money
The prize money for the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes sits at $750,000.
Connections of the winning horse will take home $450,000.
Makybe Diva Stakes final field, barriers and betting odds
The final field for this year's Makybe Diva Stakes has been confirmed, with Mr Brightside the overwhelming favourite to continue its winning ways.
Odds courtesy of Dabble, correct as of September 15th. WHAT'S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU?
Runner (Barrier) | Jockey | Trainer | Odds |
1. Mr Brightside (2) | Craig Williams | Ben & JD Hayes | $1.90 |
2. Alligator Blood (4) | Damien Oliver | G.Waterhouse/A.Bott | $4.00 |
3. Spanish Mission (6) | Luke Nolen | P.Moody/K.Coleman | $51 |
4. Aegon (5) | Michael Dee | Andrew Forsman | $21 |
5. Francesco Guardi (3) | Damian Lane | Chris Waller | $26 |
6. Osipenko (1) | Mark Zahra | Chris Waller | $12 |
7. Princess Grace (7) | Blake Shinn | Chris Waller | $4.80 |