One of Australia’s greatest ever racehorses, Black Caviar, has died aged 17 after passing away peacefully on Saturday.

The marvellous mare transcended racing across the globe, retiring in 2013 as the winner of 25 races from 25 starts, including 15 Group 1 races and almost $8 million in prizemoney.

The sprinting sensation was a proud Australian product, but gained worldwide acclaim when showing fighting heart to claim the 2012 Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes (1200m) at Royal Ascot in England.

Connections and trainer Peter Moody, who is originally from country Queensland, were taken on a whirlwind journey in her four-year career from April 2009 to April 2013.

Moody and jockey Luke Nolen have formed a lifelong friendship and partnership over many seasons, with the hoop guiding her to 23 of her wins and being synonymous with her story.

“She was a remarkable horse who gave us all the ride of a lifetime and wonderful memories,” Moody said.

Victoria Racing Club (VRC) Chairman Neil Wilson said the news was “a shock to us all”.

“Black Caviar was more than a champion racehorse, she was an important part of life for many people,” Wilson said.

“Her brilliance, her presence and the pleasure and inspiration she gave to so many was a special moment in time for horse racing and sport more generally.

“She has created a piece of history that will be remembered forever, and it was a privilege for all who saw this wonderful equine athlete in action.”

Since her retirement, Black Caviar’s legacy has continued to live on with a Group 1 sprinting contest carrying her famous name.

“The VRC was privileged to have Black Caviar race at Flemington and to have the Lightning Stakes named after her in 2013, a race she won three times including the first year it was named in her honour,” Wilson said.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to those close to her, including our friends in the ownership group. To Black Caviar’s trainer Peter Moody and jockey Luke Nolen, our thoughts are with you on this sad day.

“She was simply the best.”

The champion mare, who would have turned 18 tomorrow, is survived by her sons and daughters who continue to pass her racing prowess at stud.

Her famous silks, which aptly are coloured salmon with black polka dots, have not been re-used as a mark of the impact the dashing speedster had.

Despite never racing in WA, Black Caviar had a connection to local racing having been partnered by Western Australian jockey Jarrad Noske in her first two outings.

Noske spent time through the early stages of his career riding in Victoria, leading all the way to claim the Listed Blue Sapphire on the mare at her second start.