Sheza Alibi makes history in Makybe Diva Stakes

Sheza Alibi has cemented her status among Australia's elite racehorses following a dominant performance in the Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington.

The mare, prepared by Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman, made history by becoming the first female galloper to win the Makybe Diva since the race achieved Group 1 status in 2013.

Sent out as the $1.60 favourite under the guidance of Luke Nolen, Sheza Alibi recorded an impressive 2-¾ length victory over Autumn Boy ($20), with Another Wil ($101) finishing a neck behind in third.

The race's complexion suited Sheza Alibi perfectly, as her prompt beginning on Saturday enabled Nolen to settle the mare closer to the leaders.

Coleman commented that Sheza Alibi can be somewhat tardy from the barriers, a characteristic observed when she was exceptional in the Doncaster Mile at Randwick in April, and also first-up when she drew an inside gate and finished second to Autumn Glow in the Winx Stakes at Randwick.

"She began better today, she put herself there, travelled sweetly," Coleman revealed. "It was a beautiful ride by from Luke and he had her in that position where she was going to be able to get mobile when he needed to."

"She loves defying history, this girl, and I think she's going to continue to do it as her career progresses. She looked like she did that quite easily today, when you look at the horses that she was up against. She is very, very special and it means so much to our stable."

Coleman further elaborated that Sheza Alibi has undergone significant physical development since her two Group 1 triumphs last season.

"She's probably come back more of a finished product this time around. She's always been a lovely horse to look at, but she has developed, is bigger and stronger and hopefully we continue to see that."

When questioned about the Cox Plate at Flemington this year, Coleman was asked if the prestigious race was a target for Sheza Alibi.

However, with the $10 million The Golden Eagle (1500m) at Randwick a week later, Coleman mentioned that contest remains a compelling option.

"I would say we're still geared towards the Golden Eagle but never make decisions on race day," she stated.

Nolen, who was the regular rider for Black Caviar during most of her 25 wins and has guided many of Moody's elite Group 1 performers, expressed uncertainty about Sheza Alibi's ultimate potential.

"We don't know her ceiling yet, so that's the exciting part of it. Outwardly she doesn't stand out, even as a trackworker she doesn't stand out, but she's all racehorse."

Punters looking to get involved can explore the latest racing betting markets for feature races like the Makybe Diva Stakes at various online bookmakers.