Zenyatta News

[Kurenai]

I am wondering what they will do if Zen starts to tear her stall apart cause she wants to work so badly... guess we will know in one month if she really stays retired!

I would absolutely love it if they would race her in the DWC and then retire her. But chances are slim this is going to happen. :(

[PONYRCR]

Haven't read this thread since I left for KY on Wed so I don't know if any else metioned this.

But...Zenyatta was being trained in her last two works to pass her rival just past the finish line. JS has mentioned before how intelligent she is, so perhaps this was a mistake. She past Blame two jumps past the finish.

[Bickersons]

Bolding two sentences that are tied together, in my mind.

Yes, most, if not all, of the great ones were/are scrutinized this much. It just seems more intense to you because (a) it's "your" horse and (b) the Internet makes it all very immediate.

The "luxury" you wonder about generally comes with time and perspective. Seattle Slew is a prime example of that. Unless you were around and watching and reading when he was running, it's hard to believe now how slow many were to appreciate what he was. No one much questioned Spectacular Bid's stature, but Buddy Delp was second-guessed constantly, especially early, about decisions he made around The Bid. Etc.

If you'll look past the whole HOY issue, I think you can be assured now that Zenyatta will transcend all the current debate. And I wouldn't have said that was assured prior to race, because I thought her long-term reputation might well be tied to the fate of synthetic surfaces in this country. But, like Slew, she was magnificent in defeat; and that, coupled with all the other good stuff around her, probably pretty much guarantees her long-term status as one of the greats.

Funny that you mention Slew, the first Derby I ever watched! I get the whole Internet thing, but even given that, there is MUCH more scrutiny on Zenyatta, and it comes from the traditionalists and, yes, the Easterners who need her to fit into their Box of Greatness. Instead, she's made her own and they are having trouble seeing it.

Her's the difference with me. As I said, I've been watching racing since Slew. I'm not new to this party. But I was watching by myself. I had nobody to talk to about racing. All I had was whatever was on the networks, Sports Illustrated, and the newspaper. So I formed my own opinions, without people like Andy Beyer telling me Seattle Slew was a goat or whatever. I was never a Bid fan because I adored Affirmed, but I could recognize his greatness.

The fact that ANYBODY could question Zenyatta's record is, quite frankly, retarded. I don't really care if she wins Horse of the Year. She should have already won one of them, so her never winning speaks more to the award than it does to her. She is to Blame what Michelle Kwan was to Tara Lipinski. Defeated, but remembered as great.

But here's the thing about Horse Of the Year. People keep saying, "It's Horse of the YEAR, not a career achievement award." Okay, but show me in the rule book where the Horse of the Year award HAS to go to the winner of the hand-picked championship race. The majority of voters may see it that way, but that doesn't mean that it's a hard and fast rule. What about Horse of the Year meaning the horse who has done the most for racing? Why can't it sometimes mean that? Especially since the rulebook changes so often. Because last year, Rachel had HOTY sewn up while Zenyatta won the championship race. In 2008, Curlin didn't even win the championship race and was still HOTY. Or does this changing of the "rules" apply only to Jess Jackson horses?

(that would not surprise me)

No, Zenyatta's legacy isn't going to be tarnished by her lack of a HOTY trophy, but anyone who isn't saying glowing things about her after Saturday need to have their head examined. Heck, Andy Beyer may be the first person Zenyatta bites.

[The Tin Man]

Haven't read this thread since I left for KY on Wed so I don't know if any else metioned this.

But...Zenyatta was being trained in her last two works to pass her rival just past the finish line. JS has mentioned before how intelligent she is, so perhaps this was a mistake. She past Blame two jumps past the finish.

That came into my mind instantly. She probably felt she did EXACTLY what they'd wanted her to do ... Pass the lead horse AFTER the wire. Which she did with a head bob one stride past. So sad.

[drjohnh]

while i am pretty sure that Z knows where the finish line is at HP i doubt very much if she knew or cared where it was at churchill

[BARNFOUR]

That came into my mind instantly. She probably felt she did EXACTLY what they'd wanted her to do ... Pass the lead horse AFTER the wire. Which she did with a head bob one stride past. So sad.

With all due respect you guys are really grasping with some of these theories.She was left with too much to do.She was too far back.Perhaps Shirreffs should have shipped her to Churchill a few weeks earlier and breezed her a few times over the surface.Had she not dropped so far back she probably would have won.The stuff of her not knowing where the wire was is a bunch of baloney.

[Valiant-Nature]

That came into my mind instantly. She probably felt she did EXACTLY what they'd wanted her to do ... Pass the lead horse AFTER the wire. Which she did with a head bob one stride past. So sad.

What happened past the wire is useless information as riders immediately stand up and the horse knows it's time to shut it down. Having said that she NEVER got her nose in front. Not out of the gate, at the mile pole, 2 steps past the wire or any other part of the gallop out of either. But it is absolutely meaningless even if she had.

My word, the lengths people will go to justify a thought or opinion.

[islandgirl45]

With all due respect you guys are really grasping with some of these theories.She was left with too much to do.She was too far back.Perhaps Shirreffs should have shipped her to Churchill a few weeks earlier and breezed her a few times over the surface.Had she not dropped so far back she probably would have won.The stuff of her not knowing where the wire was is a bunch of baloney.

I agree. That's the issue in a nutshell.

If she hadn't had to check a bit for Quality Road backing up, maybe she gets there.
If she had found an opening earlier, maybe she gets there.
If Mike hadn't angled her in close to Blame maybe he wouldn't have fought back.

If only....

But the bottom line is, she was just too far back. And yet, her explosive closing kick was almost enough.

Baffert also said Z and Lucky were both too far back and added he wished he'd brought his horses in earlier and worked them over the track before the race. That might have helped Z as well. I guess John Shirreffs felt since she galloped over the surface well last year she didn't need that, but a race with 11 other horses kicking dirt at you is a bit different than galloping around the track.

[Retrospectiv]

VN,

Apparently you've not watched the race very closely. Zenyatta does get her nose in front for a few strides past the wire before relaxing.
It makes no difference to the outcome, but don't say she NEVER did, when she DID.

[EquineAnne]

What I'm curious about regarding Zenyatta now is why they're shipping her back to California.

She is presumably retired, why not leave her in Ky, where she's going to end up regardless and let her acclimate to the weather and temperatures as the season progresses? Doesn't seem to make sense, taking her waaay back to warm California only to bring her back to a much colder Ky at a later date. They could make arrangements to let her down at Churchill or another track.

Please explain what "let her down" means. I've heard it before but do not know what exactly that means. Thanks!

[DesertHeat]

VN,

Apparently you've not watched the race very closely. Zenyatta does get her nose in front for a few strides past the wire before relaxing.
It makes no difference to the outcome, but don't say she NEVER did, when she DID.

I posted this on another forum:

http://www.simhorseracing.com/horsepics/classic2stridesafter.jpg

I blew it up to 600%, and then kinda doodled around where the pixels ended for both of their heads. Her head is down, his is up. Their tails and flanks are right together, too. The two light pixels on her head are her shadow roll, then there were more dark pixels after that as the end of her nose.

[Retrospectiv]

Please explain what "let her down" means. I've heard it before but do not know what exactly that means. Thanks!

It basically means to let her down from racing fitness.

They'll scale back her on track time, no more works and few gallops. More time jogging and just walking around. They'll begin to cut her feed back some.
She's been wound up tight for her big finale and will take a little time to 'come down' from her peak of racing fitness as well as mentally.
It's all designed to get her ready to be a pasture ornament. If they have a place (some barn areas have small round pens for turnout) they may let her loose for a short amount of time. It'll be a lot less of a shock for her by preparing her over the next few weeks/months for what's to come for her.

[islandgirl45]

This is a nice article about the feeling Zenyatta inspired in those who followed her racing career.

Zenyatta's finale was a ride to remember
Published: 11:17 p.m., Sunday, November 7, 2010http://www.greenwichtime.com/sports/article/Zenyatta-s-finale-was-a-ride-to-remember-802716.php
My favorite line....
"Zenyatta was perfect from November 2007 until November 2010. She will be great forever."

[hagginwood]

With all due respect you guys are really grasping with some of these theories.She was left with too much to do.She was too far back.Perhaps Shirreffs should have shipped her to Churchill a few weeks earlier and breezed her a few times over the surface.Had she not dropped so far back she probably would have won.The stuff of her not knowing where the wire was is a bunch of baloney.

perhaps some of the other trainers should have shipped earlier too, if we are going there.

[EquineAnne]

It basically means to let her down from racing fitness.

They'll scale back her on track time, no more works and few gallops. More time jogging and just walking around. They'll begin to cut her feed back some.
She's been wound up tight for her big finale and will take a little time to 'come down' from her peak of racing fitness as well as mentally.
It's all designed to get her ready to be a pasture ornament. If they have a place (some barn areas have small round pens for turnout) they may let her loose for a short amount of time. It'll be a lot less of a shock for her by preparing her over the next few weeks/months for what's to come for her.

Thanks Retro. I often wondered what exactly it entailed.

[EquineAnne]

IMO, the best part of this sport is leaving. Sure, there are others and probably even better ones will come by, but they won't have the "trimmings" that Zenyatta gave us. Her connections alone are something we will never see again. Their willingness to share her, her willingness to be shared, her charisma and persona...everything that went into the package that was Zenyatta. And now, after all of this, some stupid colt clips her at the wire and she will lose HOY. This is the ultimate let down. I am disgusted.

[MonmouthGuy]

And now, after all of this, some stupid colt clips her at the wire and she will lose HOY.



Zenyatta made her name clipping other fillies and mares in the final strides. Never heard fans of St. Trinians, Rinterval, Annabaas Creation, etc. call her a stupid mare.

When you have that type of racing style, you aren't going to win them all if you face the best competition.

If Zenyatta raced against open company exclusively, she would have won FAR more than she lost, but there may have been a race or two she didn't get up in time. That is why the undefeated thing never meant much to me.

I would have rather seen her knock heads with Blame 3 times, winning two of them, then wonder what would have been.

[Dave in TJMex]

Posts like this are why the true Zealots like EquineAnne will not be missed. Good riddance.

Zenyatta made her name clipping other fillies and mares in the final strides. Never heard fans of St. Trinians, Rinterval, Annabaas Creation, etc. call her a stupid mare.

When you have that type of racing style, you aren't going to win them all if you face the best competition.

If Zenyatta raced against open company exclusively, she would have won FAR more than she lost, but there may have been a race or two she didn't get up in time. That is why the undefeated thing never meant much to me.

I would have rather seen her knock heads with Blame 3 times, winning two of them, then wonder what would have been.

Gosh, hard for me to find myself saying this, but I agree with Monmouth Guy.

Yup, I believe that as great as Z is (and was), had she raced much more against the best Grade I males, she would have won more than she lost, but she probably would have lost some. Saturday's race shows that running against the best males, there is little to no room for error. Z caught a bad trip --- to be expected periodically when always rallying from last --- and there are other really terrific horses out there, as Blame showed on Saturday. That can lead to a defeat.

A friend of mine on this Board (a HUGE Z fan) said months ago --- and maybe last year sometime --- "too bad Z hasn't already lost a race. If so, the Mosses would not be looking to protect her undefeated streak, and maybe they would have run Z against the boys more often and notched some male horse scalps in those races." I agree completely.

Of course I wanted her to stay unbeaten, but even more, I wanted to see her run against Grade I males. Seeing her beat Grade I fillies and mares was alway exciting -- Z's come from behind style and close finishes ensured that --- but gosh, seeing her square off against the boys more than twice would have been more fun, even if she would have been beaten here and there.

I kept lobbying her for Z to run in the Stephen Foster this year. It would have been the perfect opportunity to ship, for a race over the track, and to face a beatable field. Had Z done that and won, beating Blame, she would have a far stronger claim to HOY than she does today.

I get it that maybe she didn't travel well to and from Oaklawn, and her connections felt another trip back East would not have been in her best interests. Well geez, the Hollywood Gold Cup on her home track would have been a great spot for her.

Ultimately, this is nit-picking. She had a fabulous career, and I will always cherish the good memories of her.

[StarGirl11]

Truth be told i am not fully ready for her to retire. The sheer thought of her retirement was reducing me to tears. I know she probably will retire but after following her like a madman the last two and a half years it's hard to let go. She was the first non Triple Crown horse I ever followed and got me interested in the entire sport. She was in my life through the weight gain and a tough year in college. Part of me wants to in the non literal sense wrap my arms around her head and not let go (something about that position comforts me mentally). For some reason letting go this year is harder than last year. Last year I accepted it yet I can't accept it with the same ease this year. Which I guess is part of the reason I am holding out hope they don't retire her even if the odds are against it. If she does though I am certain I will move on even if it takes a while. If she does I will say this, 'thanks for the run of a lifetime.' And I hope she gets a retirement ceremony worthy of her.

[The Tin Man]

If I didn't fear for her getting out of the game healthy, I'd be for her running. But I'm too damn paranoid about her saftey, so I hope this is it. I don't wanna tempt fate.

20 seems like a good number to me. :)

VERY sweet post SG and I know exactly how you feel! :sad:

If you live in the SoCal area and haven't met her yet, you need to! Access is VERY easy and you'd cherish the experience for a lifetime. :)

[Secretariat Forever]

There will never be another like her that's for sure.

[breezing]

no matter what she does they will keep raising the bar on what she needs to do in order to get respect, i think that tells you more about her critics than her fans.

[zilzal]

Flavor of the month...interesting how they abandon ship when the old favorite, the gutted filly, leaves the scene.

[The Tin Man]

Gosh, hard for me to find myself saying this, but I agree with Monmouth Guy.



Dave ... You should REALLY get treated for that! Agreeing with MG is a VERY scary thing ... Zenny's lost may have driven you nuts! I can't imagine EVER doing that. Seek help soon my friend. :evil:

[zilzal]

There will never be another like her that's for sure.
EVERYTHING in racing has happened before....Those without historical perspective never realize this however.

[The Tin Man]

Flavor of the month...interesting how they abandon ship when the old favorite, the gutted filly, leaves the scene.

Someone abandoned ship? I sure haven't noticed that.

And what filly was gutted? From all reports she has looked fantastic since the race.

Interesting take ...

[The Tin Man]

EVERYTHING in racing has happened before....Those without historical perspective never realize this however.

Maybe the same kind of on track performance ... But I have a strong feeling that SF is also factoring in the personality, the dancing, the pawing, the fan friendliness, the owners, the love, the playing to the crowd ... etc ...

I don't see that combination all mixed with the talent coming again. I can't think of a prior horse that incorporated all of those ingredients.

But I do understand your premise that if something happened once, it can happen twice. But as far as all of the aformentioned ingredients all in one package ... ? I think we've just witnessed a package that was incredibly unique ... as in won't be replicated.

[Dave in TJMex]

Dave ... You should REALLY get treated for that! Agreeing with MG is a VERY scary thing ... Zenny's lost may have driven you nuts! I can't imagine EVER doing that. Seek help soon my friend. :evil:

What can I say, I thought Monmouth Guy made lots of sense in his post!! :)

[breezing]

EVERYTHING in racing has happened before....Those without historical perspective never realize this however.
huh? i thought they were talking about snowflakes not snow.

too bad we don't have video of all the other horses just like z..........since there's so many of them i'm sure you can point out exactly which ones behaved most like the big girl both on and off the track.

[The Tin Man]

What can I say, I thought Monmouth Guy made lots of sense in his post!! :)

... and the Earth spins off its axis ...

[EquineAnne]

Zenyatta made her name clipping other fillies and mares in the final strides. Never heard fans of St. Trinians, Rinterval, Annabaas Creation, etc. call her a stupid mare.

When you have that type of racing style, you aren't going to win them all if you face the best competition.

If Zenyatta raced against open company exclusively, she would have won FAR more than she lost, but there may have been a race or two she didn't get up in time. That is why the undefeated thing never meant much to me.

I would have rather seen her knock heads with Blame 3 times, winning two of them, then wonder what would have been.

Hey Madmouth guy, no one cares who you would rather have seen Z knock heads with or your paltry explanation. I guess it's an improvement tho from your usual private, filthy emails.

[MonmouthGuy]

Hey Madmouth guy, no one cares who you would rather have seen Z knock heads with or your paltry explanation. I guess it's an improvement tho from your usual private, filthy emails.


EA, thank you for the compliment.

My view is that of the non-fanatic every day handicapper/horse racing fan who will be following the sport long after the zealots have stopped calling Breeders Cup Classic winners "stupid colts" or "lucky SOBs" and gone back to their soap operas and bottles of gin.

Have a nice day.

[Maggie]

Breeders' cup ratings through the roof!

http://www.ntra.com/content/display/news/NDY5MTM=

Wow to see the Queen Z. When was the last time the rating was that high?

[EquineAnne]

EA, thank you for the compliment.

My view is that of the non-fanatic every day handicapper/horse racing fan who will be following the sport long after the zealots have stopped calling Breeders Cup Classic winners "stupid colts" or "lucky SOBs" and gone back to their soap operas and bottles of gin.

Have a nice day.

You too Madmouth. :dance:

[EquineAnne]

Breeders' cup ratings through the roof!

http://www.ntra.com/content/display/news/NDY5MTM=

Wow to see the Queen Z. When was the last time the rating was that high?

Some idiots just don't get what Z brought to the sport. When Horse Racing is gone because of their tunnel vision, they'll have to find another place to nurse their gin & tonic, act like a degenerate, and gamble away little Johnny's trust fund.

[MonmouthGuy]

Some idiots just don't get what Z brought to the sport. When Horse Racing is gone because of their tunnel vision, they'll have to find another place to nurse their gin & tonic, act like a degenerate, and gamble away little Johnny's trust fund.

Those are great ratings. It almost equalled 1/2 of the Kentucky Derby audience.

What would anyone's view of what Zenyatta brought to horse racing have to do with the future of the sport? If everyone was a Zenyatta fan, all would be well with horse racing?

It doesn't make any sense. There is absolutely no correlation.

See you later. I have to head back into the tunnel.

[The Tin Man]

You too Madmouth. :dance:

Hey ... At least he didn't call you fat and ugly ... The kinder, gentler MG. ;-)

[legendra]

Truth be told i am not fully ready for her to retire. The sheer thought of her retirement was reducing me to tears. I know she probably will retire but after following her like a madman the last two and a half years it's hard to let go. She was the first non Triple Crown horse I ever followed and got me interested in the entire sport. She was in my life through the weight gain and a tough year in college. Part of me wants to in the non literal sense wrap my arms around her head and not let go (something about that position comforts me mentally). For some reason letting go this year is harder than last year. Last year I accepted it yet I can't accept it with the same ease this year. Which I guess is part of the reason I am holding out hope they don't retire her even if the odds are against it. If she does though I am certain I will move on even if it takes a while. If she does I will say this, 'thanks for the run of a lifetime.' And I hope she gets a retirement ceremony worthy of her.

That is most definitely just as sweet as anything I have ever read; and totally understood/agreed with from my side. I lost my Mother last year--and she joined me in embracing the wonder that is Zenyatta.

Everyone has a story, remembrances...some that others may consider stupid or unbelievable in relation to just a horse...just a horse who isn't even ours...but I will NEVER discount any love that is given to this wonderful and special mare.

Hate to think we'll never see her again on the track; but do agree with TTM....I am also afraid for her. Something happening to her is my worst nightmare; that kept me out of my mind all week (what little mind that I seem to have, you know)

The fear of that is/was absolutely so much worse than the thought of losing a 'little race called the BCC'....after all, it doesn't really count for all that much, does it?

After all there's been several females who have won the Classic right? Or wait a minute-- who have done very well in the Classic, right? Who have at least tried the Classic...oh excuse me...I think I may be mistaken. Oh well, won it once and 2nd in it once...that just isn't that great ....is it? :rolleyes:

[Curlin]

See you later. I have to head back into the tunnel.

... on the way to the padded room.

[legendra]

huh? i thought they were talking about snowflakes not snow.

too bad we don't have video of all the other horses just like z..........since there's so many of them i'm sure you can point out exactly which ones behaved most like the big girl both on and off the track.

:cheer2:

[Maggie]

For Zenyatta's fans

http://www.zenyatta.com/news/diary-post-4-2

[Bickersons]

That is most definitely just as sweet as anything I have ever read; and totally understood/agreed with from my side. I lost my Mother last year--and she joined me in embracing the wonder that is Zenyatta.

Everyone has a story, remembrances...some that others may consider stupid or unbelievable in relation to just a horse...just a horse who isn't even ours...but I will NEVER discount any love that is given to this wonderful and special mare.

Hate to think we'll never see her again on the track; but do agree with TTM....I am also afraid for her. Something happening to her is my worst nightmare; that kept me out of my mind all week (what little mind that I seem to have, you know)

The fear of that is/was absolutely so much worse than the thought of losing a 'little race called the BCC'....after all, it doesn't really count for all that much, does it?

After all there's been several females who have won the Classic right? Or wait a minute-- who have done very well in the Classic, right? Who have at least tried the Classic...oh excuse me...I think I may be mistaken. Oh well, won it once and 2nd in it once...that just isn't that great ....is it? :rolleyes:

You're awesome.

Selfishly, I can't stand not seeing her again. Practically, I'm SO glad she came out of her career physically unscathed. These days, that's a miracle. She's been happy and healthy ever since she got to John Shirreffs barn and that is a gift.

[EquineAnne]

Those are great ratings. It almost equalled 1/2 of the Kentucky Derby audience.

What would anyone's view of what Zenyatta brought to horse racing have to do with the future of the sport? If everyone was a Zenyatta fan, all would be well with horse racing?

It doesn't make any sense. There is absolutely no correlation.

See you later. I have to head back into the tunnel.

Boy, you have some difficulty in reading comprehension Badmouth. Let me help you...

The sport needs Zenyatta type horses and connections. It needs fans and not just handicrappers that scream c'mon nag. Granted, gamblers are an important piece but there is more to Racing than a win bet. That added piece is what Z, her connections and how they handled her celebrity brought to the table. Today, horses are raced a year or two and sent off to the shed. Who can follow that except a gambler? There's no loyalty or fan appreciation when they run at 3 and are retired. Everyone wonders why John Henry had such a huge following. Well he lasted more than 2 seasons. He came back again and again and had a following. He had a personality, nasty as it was, it was unique to him. We don't get to know the animals anymore. They're locked away and run a few times and boom, they're retired. We need a few new Zenyatta's every year. Something to get excited about, a hero if you will. Right now with Zenyatta retiring, we have nothing.

[BARNFOUR]

What do you mean nothing.We have Goldikova......we have Uncle Mo.....

[susan]

Boy, you have some difficulty in reading comprehension Badmouth. Let me help you...

The sport needs Zenyatta type horses and connections. It needs fans and not just handicrappers that scream c'mon nag. Granted, gamblers are an important piece but there is more to Racing than a win bet. That added piece is what Z, her connections and how they handled her celebrity brought to the table. Today, horses are raced a year or two and sent off to the shed. Who can follow that except a gambler? There's no loyalty or fan appreciation when they run at 3 and are retired. Everyone wonders why John Henry had such a huge following. Well he lasted more than 2 seasons. He came back again and again and had a following. He had a personality, nasty as it was, it was unique to him. We don't get to know the animals anymore. They're locked away and run a few times and boom, they're retired. We need a few new Zenyatta's every year. Something to get excited about, a hero if you will. Right now with Zenyatta retiring, we have nothing.

Essentially this is true for many ..

Goldikova won't be seen for a full year here, and Uncle Mo not until next year .

Anyone want to hang their hats and hopes on another flash lightly raced two with the patterns we have seen lately is free to do so .

But Mo sure looked good .

Ugly as sin name for a TC hopeful and it will probably impact him if the racing gods are the same crew--ditto the trainer .

[The Tin Man]

What do you mean nothing.We have Goldikova......we have Uncle Mo.....

She means as far as personality Barny ... Just sayin' ... ;-)

Uncle Mo, talentwise, is a bada$$! He sold me in The Cup. And he's even a damn East Coast horse! ;-)

See ... I can expand my horizons when it's warranted. :)

[islandgirl45]

Those are great ratings. It almost equalled 1/2 of the Kentucky Derby audience.

The Kentucky Derby is far better known and promoted to the general public.

As a point of interest, this year's Breeders Cup did pull in more viewers than the Belmont, which didn't do as well as the Derby or even Preakness, since there was no potential Triple Crown on the line this year.

[katewerk]

The Kentucky Derby is far better known and promoted to the general public.

As a point of interest, this year's Breeders Cup did pull in more viewers than the Belmont, since there was no potential Triple Crown on the line this year.

The Kentucky Derby isn't up against college football.

[islandgirl45]

The Kentucky Derby isn't up against college football.

That's true. A good point.

[Rick1323]

The Kentucky Derby isn't up against college football.

It is also on a major network.

[The Tin Man]

That's true. A good point.

Bottom line is they got TRIPLE their normal ratings ... Anyone care to guess why? :evil:

[MonmouthGuy]

It is also on a major network.

So were a lot of low rated Breeders Cups.

[BARNFOUR]

Bottom line is they got TRIPLE their normal ratings ... Anyone care to guess why? :evil:

Sure.They were racing on DIRT for the first time in a few years and 99.9% of the people that wager on and watch horse racing prefer watching and betting on races run on good old fashioned DIRT.

[The Tin Man]

Sure.They were racing on DIRT for the first time in a few years and 99.9% of the people that wager on and watch horse racing prefer watching and betting on races run on good old fashioned DIRT.

Ahhhhh ... I knew there was something I was missing BF ... I can ALWAYS count on you to bring some sanity and clarity of mind to the discussion ... :evil:

[BARNFOUR]

Ahhhhh ... I knew there was something I was missing BF ... I can ALWAYS count on you to bring some sanity and clarity of mind to the discussion ... :evil:

I'll always be there for you Tinny to shed some light on anything related to the sport of horseracing....

[The Tin Man]

I'll always be there for you Tinny to shed some light on anything related to the sport of horseracing....

Thanks BF ... Oh wisest of sages ... ;-)

[Liztannica]

I think all fans need to hear what was said on Byk's program. Amazing praise by the tops in the industry

http://www.thoroughbredracingradionetwork.com/index.php?option=com_events&task=view_detail&agid=869&year=2010&month=11&day=08&Itemid=35

hope the link works...

[islandgirl45]

Very nice article in DRF. What a nice gesture from someone connected with Blame...
11/08/2010 2:33PM

An unheard-of day for Zenyatta
http://www.drf.com/news/unheard-day-zenyatta

Excerpts:
"There appeared then, without warning, Freddie Johnson, dressed in denim and fleece, standing in the crowd at the mouth of the barn, quietly insistent that he wanted to congratulate John Shirreffs and everybody in the Zenyatta barn for the fantastic job they had done with the mare.
“I told Al I wanted to come over here and do this,” said Johnson, referring to his boss, Al Stall Jr. “He said, ‘Freddie, I think that’s a real good idea.’ I know how hard these people worked to keep this mare so good for so long. She ran her heart out. She deserved that win. But I got hoarse hollering for Blame, ‘cause I knew once he took the lead it’s hard to pass him, and she was coming like a freight train.....”


"...“The only reason Haynesfield got us,” Johnson said, “was we got up there the day before the race and he just stood at the back of the stall, just lookin’ lookin’ lookin’. I told Al something ain’t right. He’s not the horse I know.”
The horse Johnson knew put the Gold Cup loss behind him and showed up like a champion for the Classic.
“That’s just shows you,” Johnson said. “They can all have a day like that.
“Except her,” he added. “She never had a day like that.”
Ever."

[Hermes]

Damn. That much class from the Blame camp almost makes me not care who gets HOY. That was really really nice story.

[islandgirl45]

Damn. That much class from the Blame camp almost makes me not care who gets HOY. That was really really nice story.

They seem like really, really classy connections. Seth Hancock was a bit out of sync there but he was responding to a writer's question.

[Hermes]

They seem like really, really classy connections. Seth Hancock was a bit out of sync there but he was responding to a writer's question.

I didn't have a problem with him saying that, I can see his point. I agree with you that he was just answering, and it would have been nice to let him enjoy the win for a few minutes before hammering him with HOY questions, but we know that will never happen:)

[Spahny]

Damn. That much class from the Blame camp almost makes me not care who gets HOY. That was really really nice story.

They sound like they might actually love and understand horses.

[Maggie]

Very nice article.

http://saratogian.com/articles/2010/11/08/sports/doc4cd8c47c63097937773317.txt

[islandgirl45]

Now this is cute. The company that makes Guinness Stout has invited Zenyatta, trainer John Shirreffs and owners Jerry and Ann Moss to its brewery in Dublin. Hey, maybe she could stop by before visiting Sea The Stars!

Guinness welcomes Zenyatta to Dublin
http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/breederscup2010/news/story?id=5782589&campaign=rss&source=ESPNHeadlines

"NEW YORK -- Zenyatta is still welcome to visit the Guinness brewery in Ireland despite her loss in the Breeders' Cup Classic.
A Guinness spokeswoman said Monday the company decided to extend its offer even though Zenyatta lost by a head to Blame in the $5 million race in Kentucky last weekend. It was her first loss after 19 consecutive victories.
The company says Zenyatta's bold performance on the track has been fascinating to watch and captivated the nation and the world........"

[Hermes]

Maybe this has already been posted:

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/racing/zenyatta-falls-short-in-quest-for-perfection-but-legend-is-intact-2128089.html

excerpts:

Her failure to catch Blame, however, did not so much diminish the legend as complete it. It was the flaw deliberately sewn into a Persian carpet, by the weaver whose skills might otherwise seem so divine as to contain intimations of blasphemy. In taking her theatrical running style to insuperable extremes – detached by some eight lengths at the first bend – she showed how miraculous it was, that she had never previously left it too late.

After she flashed through the photo-finish beam with Blame, palpably inches too short, a shivering, crepuscular silence suddenly suffused the inflamed atmosphere. Night was stealing across the huddled knolls and woodland beyond, enveloping ochre, gold and russet in the same gloom. We knew, now, that she was not invincible. She was better than that.

[drjohnh]

I think all fans need to hear what was said on Byk's program. Amazing praise by the tops in the industry

http://www.thoroughbredracingradionetwork.com/index.php?option=com_events&task=view_detail&agid=869&year=2010&month=11&day=08&Itemid=35

hope the link works...

thank you, very nice things said about Z plus i ended up listening to all 3 hours that pretty much recapped the BC..it was good.

[Dusty]

Damn. That much class from the Blame camp almost makes me not care who gets HOY. That was really really nice story.


Nice......not so much...

[Happy Endings]

I think all fans need to hear what was said on Byk's program. Amazing praise by the tops in the industry

http://www.thoroughbredracingradionetwork.com/index.php?option=com_events&task=view_detail&agid=869&year=2010&month=11&day=08&Itemid=35

hope the link works...

Yes, the link does work and thank you very much for posting it. I listened to the first hour last night and plan to listen to the rest tonight.

[Reposmoral]

Sure.They were racing on DIRT for the first time in a few years and 99.9% of the people that wager on and watch horse racing prefer watching and betting on races run on good old fashioned DIRT.

Now, you may have just said this to stir things up, but, my experience suggests this is not the case.

Over the past few days, I've had numerous people come up to me and express condolences/amazement/regrets/admiration about Zenyatta. People who I know were not particular interested in horse racing or were actually *against* it, watched the BC on Saturday because Zenyatta was in it. A few people knew about the race because I had mentioned it, others because they watched 60 minutes, and others I have no idea, because I had never talked about horse racing with them before.

These were not gamblers and they didn't give a damn about the surface she was running on. They just heard about Zenyatta and wanted to see her make history.

[Blue Jeans]

Maybe this has already been posted:

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/racing/zenyatta-falls-short-in-quest-for-perfection-but-legend-is-intact-2128089.html

excerpts:


After she flashed through the photo-finish beam with Blame, palpably inches too short, a shivering, crepuscular silence suddenly suffused the inflamed atmosphere. Night was stealing across the huddled knolls and woodland beyond, enveloping ochre, gold and russet in the same gloom. We knew, now, that she was not invincible. She was better than that.

Ah, creative nonfiction writing is not lost. Zenyatta does bring out the best, doesn't she? Nice reading. :biggrin1:

[djnorth]

I'm with those who think that Z's appeal is a MAJOR reason for the increase. When I got back to work on Monday, people who knew that I was a fanatic but never asked or talked about the sport came up to me and said, "So sorry she missed etc." I was able to comment on all the positives (many of the greats lost at least once, she came back healthy, she tried hard on a surface she didn't like etc.) They asked questions like they might be considering watching some more, even if their next real possibility doesn't come until spring. (and they didn't even mention Friday's WWE, jockey division!)

Here's hopin'

[MonmouthGuy]

I'm with those who think that Z's appeal is a MAJOR reason for the increase. When I got back to work on Monday, people who knew that I was a fanatic but never asked or talked about the sport came up to me and said, "So sorry she missed etc." I was able to comment on all the positives (many of the greats lost at least once, she came back healthy, she tried hard on a surface she didn't like etc.) They asked questions like they might be considering watching some more, even if their next real possibility doesn't come until spring. (and they didn't even mention Friday's WWE, jockey division!)

Here's hopin'

Zenyatta's appeal was not just a major reason for the increased ratings. It was the ONLY reason.

[Hermes]

I think it was all about Z for ESPN ratings,and she was worth at least 10-15,000 at the gate, too.

I am sorry she is not racing again, and that racing did not market her better for the past two years, and that I personally may not have appreciated her enough. I regret that. I liked her, but until Saturday I did not really fully comprehend her. Now I do. And now a bunch of casual or wannabe fans will fall back to the wayside with out her in our midst. This is always the way with horse racing.

While I do not blame them, as it is a business and if a farm ever needed a marquee stallion, it is Claiborne, it is sad that they will not race him again next year. He runs on Poly or dirt, too.

[MonmouthGuy]

I am sorry she is not racing again, and that racing did not market her better for the past two years.


Aren't the connections at least partially to blame for that?

[Hermes]

Aren't the connections at least partially to blame for that?

Probably. But then would she have maintained that streak if they took on more challenges than they did during the "regular season"? Who knows? She was in LA, and so she had more opportunity to be marketed from there than most bases.

I still doubt racing would have marketed her well even if she did come east. Remember, this is a sport where Cella was going to run the match against Rachel on a Friday. No one EVER needs to know more than that fact to understand the lack of national mainstream marketing coverage for this sport.

[Somnambulist]

Probably. But then would she have maintained that streak if they took on more challenges than they did during the "regular season"?

Are you sure the streak would have mattered? I doubt she maintains her perfect record if she'd run in open company more, but at the same time, I don't think people just want to see perfection. Something novel is generally all it takes to get people a little interested. An amazon of a mare running successfully against the boys, and having a closing running style, IMO, could have been marketed nicely. I'd say a little more than the norm turned out for Rachel's races that I attended, and she wasn't perfect. But she and her campaign were novel.

[EquineAnne]

I have no clue who these folks are at this blog but according to them, Zen may not retire?

http://www.darinzracing.com/

[Holla]

I have no clue who these folks are at this blog but according to them, Zen may not retire?

http://www.darinzracing.com/

There were rumblings about Z not retiring even before the Breeders' Cup.

[RSA]

She should take a shot at Dubai Classic before she retires.

[MonmouthGuy]

I can't believe I am saying this, but if they bring her back, I think they should run the same schedule they did last year and nurse her to the Breeders Cup. She has proven she can compete with the world's best dirt horses, no reason to take her out of her comfort zone if getting to the Classic is the goal. Especially because she will be running on dirt this year in Santa Anita, so the best dirt horses will have no excuse for not shipping to the Big Cap.

[islandgirl45]

She should take a shot at Dubai Classic before she retires.

I'd love to see that, with maybe a prep during Santa Anita's winter meet. She's going to be 7, so I can't see her connections mounting a year-long campaign. But the DWC would still allow her to come home in time for the breeding season, wouldn't it?

[islandgirl45]

From Steve Haskin's Facebook page; pictures posted Sunday after the BCC:

Zenyatta and me
https://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=88609&id=1546364540

[Reposmoral]

This is unrelated to anything that folks have been discussing, but am I the only one waiting on pins and needles to see what Steve Haskin is going to write about the Classic?

He has to write something about it, right?

I'm very interested to hear his take. Plus he's always a pleasure to read.


Also, did anyone hear this interview with Mike Smith?

http://www.xxsportsradio.com/common/global_audio/40/23744.mp3



I've got tears in my eyes again, but now it's just tears of appreciation and awe. If Mike's interpretation is to be believed, she had a lot against her and she ran her heart out. I kinda hope, too, that she is given at least one more race so she can go out a winner. Kinda like what they did for John Henry

[EquineAnne]

I'd love to see that, with maybe a prep during Santa Anita's winter meet. She's going to be 7, so I can't see her connections mounting a year-long campaign. But the DWC would still allow her to come home in time for the breeding season, wouldn't it?

I don't know about the DWC. I wish they'd change her to turf. The Arc would look good on her resume. I think she could handle a mile and a half.

Also, I find it odd that we've heard nothing from the connections. It seems they are planning a course of action to be announced later. Not like last year when they retired her without asking Ann. I imagine she must be devastated.

[EquineAnne]

This is unrelated to anything that folks have been discussing, but am I the only one waiting on pins and needles to see what Steve Haskin is going to write about the Classic?

He has to write something about it, right?

I'm very interested to hear his take. Plus he's always a pleasure to read.


Also, did anyone hear this interview with Mike Smith?

http://www.xxsportsradio.com/common/global_audio/40/23744.mp3



I've got tears in my eyes again, but now it's just tears of appreciation and awe. If Mike's interpretation is to be believed, she had a lot against her and she ran her heart out. I kinda hope, too, that she is given at least one more race so she can go out a winner. Kinda like what they did for John Henry

Yes, I'd like to see that too.

[second_glance]

On FB, Haskin said his piece on the Classic will go up at BH.com later today, and he'll publish a separate piece later in the week on Zenyatta.

[Curlin]

I too wonder why the connections have delayed making a statement, but my guess is they're still recovering, and waiting to see how big Z recovers as well.

Me, I'm ready to motor down to HP to give the big girl a big hug. Maybe I'll bring a bottle of Guinness with me ;)

[second_glance]

I too wonder why the connections have delayed making a statement, but my guess is they're still recovering, and waiting to see how big Z recovers as well.

Me, I'm ready to motor down to HP to give the big girl a big hug. Maybe I'll bring a bottle of Guinness with me ;)

Seriously, if I were them I'd give the Big Mare a kiss and head to Maui for a week. Or two.

[Adding: Not because she lost, but just because they've been on an intense ride with her.]

[Slewbopper]

She should take a shot at Dubai Classic before she retires.

Personally I hope no American horse ever runs in that terrorist kingdom ever again.

[EquineAnne]

Personally I hope no American horse ever runs in that terrorist kingdom ever again.

I'm not fond of the idea either Din but I'm not the one that might win millions.

[Liztannica]

Haskin's amazing article....he states on facebook that he will release an article on Zenyatta later this week.

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/59835/haskins-bc-classic-recap-one-for-the-ages

[BARNFOUR]

Now, you may have just said this to stir things up, but, my experience suggests this is not the case.

Over the past few days, I've had numerous people come up to me and express condolences/amazement/regrets/admiration about Zenyatta. People who I know were not particular interested in horse racing or were actually *against* it, watched the BC on Saturday because Zenyatta was in it. A few people knew about the race because I had mentioned it, others because they watched 60 minutes, and others I have no idea, because I had never talked about horse racing with them before.

These were not gamblers and they didn't give a damn about the surface she was running on. They just heard about Zenyatta and wanted to see her make history.

Haha.Of course Zenyatta was the main reason for the spike in the Breeders Cup ratings.My comment about the dirt being the biggest factor was to get a reaction from my good friend Tinny......although I and most of the people I know prefer betting on dirt or turf racing....

[EquineAnne]

Haskin's amazing article....he states on facebook that he will release an article on Zenyatta later this week.

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/59835/haskins-bc-classic-recap-one-for-the-ages


Excellent article. I love his writing. I am very happy for Blame's connections. They deserve it. One of a dying (or nearly dead) breed. God bless them and their stupid colt. Just kidding Madmouth. :becky:

[Insane Crazy]

The picture in that Haskin article is breathtaking. Anyone know where I can find a big version of it, or one like it?

[Happy Endings]

Haskin's finale:
"...one of the most exciting chapters in racing history and the final curtain call for perhaps the most amazing and unique racehorse of all time."
'nuff said

[EquineAnne]

The picture in that Haskin article is breathtaking. Anyone know where I can find a big version of it, or one like it?

Looks like Zenny is in front in that one. If only...

[Liztannica]

The picture in that Haskin article is breathtaking. Anyone know where I can find a big version of it, or one like it?


http://gallery.pictopia.com/bloodhorse/photo/9273314/

[islandgirl45]

Haskin's amazing article....he states on facebook that he will release an article on Zenyatta later this week.

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/59835/haskins-bc-classic-recap-one-for-the-ages

Haskin paints a picture with his words. A great read.

[Insane Crazy]

http://gallery.pictopia.com/bloodhorse/photo/9273314/

Thanks! I really want one big enough for a desktop background, but that may be asking too much. =P

[islandgirl45]

Thanks! I really want one big enough for a desktop background, but that may be asking too much. =P

These look like the low-resolution versions. I think they want you to buy the higher-res photos.

[Huaka]

Well, if you guys wanted to know if Zenyatta would race again or why the Mosses have been silent. Here's a quote from an article:

There is no word yet from Zenyatta's owners Jerry and Ann Moss whether the mare, the most talked-about U.S. horse in years, will return to the track next year.

"They are talking about making a decision by the end of November but I can't say for sure," said Shirreffs. "Where she's going is still in discussion."

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/09112010/2/horse-racing-zenyatta-luck-classic-says-trainer.html

[Bickersons]

Wow. Nicely written, Steve Haskin! I'm looking forward to his Zenyatta article. He just went on and on about her on Steve Byk's show. Called himself a Zenyatta zealot!

[MonmouthGuy]

http://gallery.pictopia.com/bloodhorse/photo/9273314/


Thanks, great caption.

[susan]

Thanks, great caption.

Great visual irony, I would say .

[Reposmoral]

Don't remember if this was posted already. Zenyatta's BCC loss was on NPR's Talk of the Nation yesterday.

They brought on Andy Beyer to opine.

It's hard to fathom someone less appropriate...

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=131166023

[EquineAnne]

Thanks, great caption.

http://gallery.pictopia.com/bloodhorse/gallery/110983/photo/bloodhorse:9267983/?o=9

This one has an even better caption. It states that Blame wins the "photo finish". I guess it was closer than people thought.

What's even better is her ears are up before and after the wire. Blames are dead dog down.

[second_glance]

Z's fans will like reading the opinion of an Aussie commentator:

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/racing-news/2010/november/10/zenyatta-commentary-horse-of-the-year-debate.aspx

[islandgirl45]

Z's fans will like reading the opinion of an Aussie commentator:

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/racing-news/2010/november/10/zenyatta-commentary-horse-of-the-year-debate.aspx

Excerpt...."I rang a friend in Queensland after the races and he told me that his wife was extremely upset that Zenyatta had lost. These people do not follow American racing a lick, but they tuned in to see Zenyatta."

Pretty cool that they followed one race from across the world.

[personalensign79]

http://gallery.pictopia.com/bloodhorse/gallery/110983/photo/bloodhorse:9267983/?o=9

This one has an even better caption. It states that Blame wins the "photo finish". I guess it was closer than people thought.

What's even better is her ears are up before and after the wire. Blames are dead dog down.

That's what I was looking for....thank you

[moonwalker]

Zenyatta heading to the paddock to be saddled for the Classic:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qandIgug2eQ

The BC Classic race itself, my view from the first turn:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gbw8FTaX9Rc

My BC tickets for Friday and Saturday were far down the clubhouse near the first turn. On Friday, I was able to move up near the wire by the rail, near where the horses are unsadded after the race. A lot of people apparently bought seats for both days, but decided to skip Friday. Very nice views of the post parades, stretch runs, flower ceremonies, etc.

On Saturday I was able to be a squatter in that area for the undercard races, but by the time the Breeders' Cup races started, people started filing in and I had to move. My own seat wasn't too great, so I snagged a chair and went even further down the first turn. All the horses had to pass that way on the way in to be saddled, on the gallop out after the race, and being led back to the barn area, so it was a good spot to see horses close up with no heads in the way. I am a short person, LOL.

Much as I love Zenyatta, I was not going to stand on the paddock rail all day and miss the other Breeders' Cup races. I got an up close and personal view of Goldikova on her way to the paddock, and she had her game face on, like a determined deer.
Small but mighty, indeed.

I also got a good look at my second and possibly third Kentucky Derby winners of that week. I had petted Funny Cide's nose at the Kentucky Horse Park on Tuesday, but on that Saturday I saw Mine That Bird run in the Dirt Mile and Uncle Mo romp in the Juvenile.

I also got to see Frankie Dettori celebrate after winning a race, and do his "flying dismount" in the distance.

By the time Zenyatta was ready to run, even my first turn place was packed. By the colors of the tickets hanging around necks, I could see people had come down from even the 3rd floor and above to "slum" with us and get a good view of her.

After the race:

Zenyatta and Mike Smith return:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gai0SmOd6s

Zenyatta going back to her barn:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zH2_UKIb2j0

The next day, I was able to finally meet her:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUuQxI4tfRk

Mary MMM

[islandgirl45]

Zenyatta heading to the paddock to be saddled for the Classic:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qandIgug2eQ

The BC Classic race itself, my view from the first turn:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gbw8FTaX9Rc

My BC tickets for Friday and Saturday were far down the clubhouse near the first turn. On Friday, I was able to move up near the wire by the rail, near where the horses are unsadded after the race. A lot of people apparently bought seats for both days, but decided to skip Friday. Very nice views of the post parades, stretch runs, flower ceremonies, etc.

On Saturday I was able to be a squatter in that area for the undercard races, but by the time the Breeders' Cup races started, people started filing in and I had to move. My own seat wasn't too great, so I snagged a chair and went even further down the first turn. All the horses had to pass that way on the way in to be saddled, on the gallop out after the race, and being led back to the barn area, so it was a good spot to see horses close up with no heads in the way. I am a short person, LOL.

Much as I love Zenyatta, I was not going to stand on the paddock rail all day and miss the other Breeders' Cup races. I got an up close and personal view of Goldikova on her way to the paddock, and she had her game face on, like a determined deer.
Small but mighty, indeed.

I also got a good look at my second and possibly third Kentucky Derby winners of that week. I had petted Funny Cide's nose at the Kentucky Horse Park on Tuesday, but on that Saturday I saw Mine That Bird run in the Dirt Mile and Uncle Mo romp in the Juvenile.

I also got to see Frankie Dettori celebrate after winning a race, and do his "flying dismount" in the distance.

By the time Zenyatta was ready to run, even my first turn place was packed. By the colors of the tickets hanging around necks, I could see people had come down from even the 3rd floor and above to "slum" with us and get a good view of her.

After the race:

Zenyatta and Mike Smith return:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gai0SmOd6s

Zenyatta going back to her barn:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zH2_UKIb2j0

The next day, I was able to finally meet her:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUuQxI4tfRk

Mary MMM

Amazing to hear the people cheering for her after race. Instead of being "head down, beaten and exhausted" as I read in a few articles, she was even leaning on Mario walking going back to the barn.

[moonwalker]

Amazing to hear the people cheering for her after race. Instead of being "head down, beaten and exhausted" as I read in a few articles, she was even leaning on Mario walking going back to the barn.

I think there was a lot of projection going on in those reports. Zenyatta was very dirty, but she was still headstrong, didn't appear "tired and beaten," and even did a few of her steps as she passed.

Mary MMM

[JT Dancer]

I think there was a lot of projection going on in those reports. Zenyatta was very dirty, but she was still headstrong, didn't appear "tired and beaten," and even did a few of her steps as she passed.

Mary MMM

I was not one she passed on her way off the track ( I was about 1/16 mile before the finish line), but from what I could see on the screen, she never looked tired and beaten. She looked like the same Z as always, one that could have gone around again. When I met her Sunday morning, she looked like a fresh horse- fit and happy.

When I saw the photos from around the finish line, it struck me that she still didn't have her ears pinned. Either we didn't see the bottom of her that Saturday, or she does not demonstrate normal 'tired' horse signals, which I guess could be the case.

On a related horse-who-doesn't-show-the-normal-signals note, I met Commentator at Old Friends last week, and apparently he pins his ears to show happiness. He was sweet and happy as a clam mugging for treats, all the while holding his ears pinned like an angry alpha mare; it was a little disconcerting:becky:.

[Maggie]

Commentary: Some Down Under perspective on Horse of the Year debate

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/racing-news/2010/november/10/zenyatta-commentary-horse-of-the-year-debate.aspx

[TheFlyingFilly]

On a related horse-who-doesn't-show-the-normal-signals note, I met Commentator at Old Friends last week, and apparently he pins his ears to show happiness. He was sweet and happy as a clam mugging for treats, all the while holding his ears pinned like an angry alpha mare; it was a little disconcerting:becky:.

Hahaha...my own mare is a bit like that. Her ears will go from pricked forward to pinned and back several times. She also pins her ears when she is falling asleep on her feet. I just like to think of her as "expressive"!!! :becky:

[Commentator]

On a related horse-who-doesn't-show-the-normal-signals note, I met Commentator at Old Friends last week, and apparently he pins his ears to show happiness. He was sweet and happy as a clam mugging for treats, all the while holding his ears pinned like an angry alpha mare; it was a little disconcerting:becky:. This is the greatest thing. Makes me look at his races in a whole new light! He always ran with his ears pinned all the way back, even when in front by daylight. Which was often.

Zenyatta seemed pretty tired when she walked past, but I have no comparison to her other races. But it's not like she had her head down or anything, she was definitely still leaning on the groom. My memory may be distorted a bit by the fact that I was still in shock, so here's a picture... not very good, but still the most-focused that I got of her. Stupid evening lighting messing with my camera.

[islandgirl45]

This is the greatest thing. Makes me look at his races in a whole new light! He always ran with his ears pinned all the way back, even when in front by daylight. Which was often.

Zenyatta seemed pretty tired when she walked past, but I have no comparison to her other races. But it's not like she had her head down or anything, she was definitely still leaning on the groom. My memory may be distorted a bit by the fact that I was still in shock, so here's a picture... not very good, but still the most-focused that I got of her. Stupid evening lighting messing with my camera.

Moonwalker has some good YouTube videos of Z walking back after the race. She posted them earlier here....http://www.thoroughbredchampions.com/showthread.php/901-Zenyatta-News?p=137211#post137211

[EquineAnne]

[/URL]

The next day, I was able to finally meet her:
[URL]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUuQxI4tfRk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zH2_UKIb2j0)

Mary MMM

Oh Mary, I love the last one. She looks so calm and happy and quite taken with you. I can't watch the other ones. She looked quite nervous before the race and knowing she lost makes me cry. It's so unfair for her to lose anything. If she loses HOY, I predict a big problem. Not sure how but there will be one.

[Allspice]

The next day, I was able to finally meet her:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUuQxI4tfRk

Mary MMM

What a sweetheart she is. :love:

Thank you for all the videos! They are fantastic. :nod:

[harvestmoon]

A couple of mine from after the race:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v437/mithren/DSC_2217.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v437/mithren/DSC_2198.jpg

[Diver52]

What a sweetheart she is. :love:

Thank you for all the videos! They are fantastic. :nod:

I think she was saying "Get outta my hay!"

[moonwalker]

I think she was saying "Get outta my hay!"

LOL!

Later in the day outside, I stood next to her while she tried to eat my camera bag and then rooted in my hair on the other side. A friend took pictures but he hasn't sent them to me yet.

Mary MMM

[Commentator]

On Saturday I was able to be a squatter in that area for the undercard races, but by the time the Breeders' Cup races started, people started filing in and I had to move. My own seat wasn't too great, so I snagged a chair and went even further down the first turn. All the horses had to pass that way on the way in to be saddled, on the gallop out after the race, and being led back to the barn area, so it was a good spot to see horses close up with no heads in the way. I am a short person, LOL.I missed this earlier. Judging from this and your movies, I must have been RIGHT near you. Probably a few boxes farther down the rail, judging from the fact that you upstream of the drunk woman who kept yelling at John to give her an autograph. Thank for the great videos, it's like having a recording of my own memories :)

Regarding the woman who wondered if it was that quiet when Smarty was beaten... I think the Belmont was louder. People were much angrier, whereas at the Classic, they all realized that they had seem something great despite the heartbreaking outcome. Man, it sure would be nice to walk away from a racetrack WITHOUT feeling some form of disappointment :P

[Liztannica]

http://www.drf.com/news/zenyatta-taking-it-easy-back-hollywood-park

[Slewbopper]

I missed this earlier. Judging from this and your movies, I must have been RIGHT near you. Probably a few boxes farther down the rail, judging from the fact that you upstream of the drunk woman who kept yelling at John to give her an autograph. Thank for the great videos, it's like having a recording of my own memories :)

Regarding the woman who wondered if it was that quiet when Smarty was beaten... I think the Belmont was louder. People were much angrier, whereas at the Classic, they all realized that they had seem something great despite the heartbreaking outcome. Man, it sure would be nice to walk away from a racetrack WITHOUT feeling some form of disappoint :P

I know what you mean. I finally had my great moment of glee at the Woodward last year.

[Diver52]

http://www.drf.com/news/zenyatta-taking-it-easy-back-hollywood-park

I think it should read "are in NO rush to say goodbye," shouldn't it?

[islandgirl45]

I think it should read "are in NO rush to say goodbye," shouldn't it?

Just checked, and it does say that now.

[Izvestia]

I missed this earlier. Judging from this and your movies, I must have been RIGHT near you. Probably a few boxes farther down the rail, judging from the fact that you upstream of the drunk woman who kept yelling at John to give her an autograph. Thank for the great videos, it's like having a recording of my own memories :)

Regarding the woman who wondered if it was that quiet when Smarty was beaten... I think the Belmont was louder. People were much angrier, whereas at the Classic, they all realized that they had seem something great despite the heartbreaking outcome. Man, it sure would be nice to walk away from a racetrack WITHOUT feeling some form of disappointment :P


You know, I've been thinking a lot about this lately. I loved Smarty and the time when he was up for the Triple Crown was a lot of fun. But his loss in the Belmont was him definitely tiring and running out of steam. He just wasn't going to cut it that day and his greatness had a ceiling. His retirement right after I felt, robbed him of any chance of me or future generations from really seeing him as great. Would he have continued to be quality? Who knows, but what I do know is that many horses who have won Triple Crown races have essentially just been lucky and they go nowhere afterwards. I remember feeling as if maybe I had wasted my money buying some of the Smarty race programs off Ebay at the time as I too got caught up in the hype. I turned off the TV after Smarty's Belmont very disappointed and as days passed, I simply felt fondly of the trip he took me on, but I knew his lasting legacy wouldn't be much.

Zenyatta on the other hand - of course I was disappointed. I screamed my face off and freaked my dog out and my friend knew better than to say much at all for ten minutes after the race as I processed the very narrow loss. However, as the days have gone by I have been thinking more and more about her. I think the BC Classic showed and proved she is one of the best. One of her so called "greatest threats" finished last. Blame barely beat her and she was still on a roll - closing! She bucked all the naysayers and proved to me that after watching horse racing for 20 years - that she is one of the best.

I remember watching Azeri run 5th in the BC Classic in 2004 and feeling proud of her. She beat some very good racehorses that day. I still rate her a great mare. But Zenyatta won the BC Classic and just about almost won another one - and the feeling I have after the loss is so different than what I felt after many others who didn't quite make it.

I almost wish she could just go to Dubai and a nice win in that would be a great way to end. :) I know this is a pipe dream but the thing that stands out the most to me is that I think..she could do it. Many say she raced against weak fields but I think that if you threw her in to the classic GI races with the boys - her record would be the same or very similar. This is very unlike many of the other horses I have rooted for over the years. This is what makes me feel inside that I did in fact get to witness something incredibly special, and for that I am grateful.

[PJMIII]

You know, I've been thinking a lot about this lately. I loved Smarty and the time when he was up for the Triple Crown was a lot of fun. But his loss in the Belmont was him definitely tiring and running out of steam. He just wasn't going to cut it that day and his greatness had a ceiling. His retirement right after I felt, robbed him of any chance of me or future generations from really seeing him as great. Would he have continued to be quality? Who knows, but what I do know is that many horses who have won Triple Crown races have essentially just been lucky and they go nowhere afterwards. I remember feeling as if maybe I had wasted my money buying some of the Smarty race programs off Ebay at the time as I too got caught up in the hype. I turned off the TV after Smarty's Belmont very disappointed and as days passed, I simply felt fondly of the trip he took me on, but I knew his lasting legacy wouldn't be much.

Zenyatta on the other hand - of course I was disappointed. I screamed my face off and freaked my dog out and my friend knew better than to say much at all for ten minutes after the race as I processed the very narrow loss. However, as the days have gone by I have been thinking more and more about her. I think the BC Classic showed and proved she is one of the best. One of her so called "greatest threats" finished last. Blame barely beat her and she was still on a roll - closing! She bucked all the naysayers and proved to me that after watching horse racing for 20 years - that she is one of the best.

I remember watching Azeri run 5th in the BC Classic in 2004 and feeling proud of her. She beat some very good racehorses that day. I still rate her a great mare. But Zenyatta won the BC Classic and just about almost won another one - and the feeling I have after the loss is so different than what I felt after many others who didn't quite make it.

I almost wish she could just go to Dubai and a nice win in that would be a great way to end. :) I know this is a pipe dream but the thing that stands out the most to me is that I think..she could do it. Many say she raced against weak fields but I think that if you threw her in to the classic GI races with the boys - her record would be the same or very similar. This is very unlike many of the other horses I have rooted for over the years. This is what makes me feel inside that I did in fact get to witness something incredibly special, and for that I am grateful.
Smarty was retired because he was injured. The Chapmans may not have raced him as a 4yo but they had planned to run him again in 2004.

[Commentator]

Good post Izvestia, and that kind of sums up how I feel as well. I was at Smarty's Belmont- he ran very well, but the loss was just so deflating. People booed and shouted and it was generally just an ugly scene. When I walked out of that racetrack, the people around me were in tears and the whole atmosphere was miserable and oppressive. Big Brown's Belmont was even more so, although for different reasons.

The Classic was different. There was the initial stunned silence, yes, but there was no anger, no booing the winner, no tears that I ever saw. The crowd respected what they had seen far too much to stoop to that. Zenyatta received a rousing cheer coming back, and Blame got a round of applause too. When I walked out, the people around me were still talking about the race- from "she was much the best" to "that's horse racing" to "I still love her." There was disappointment, there was sadness, but there was no bitterness. And that's what made it special. I've been to eight Belmonts and four Breeders Cups, but I've never felt such positive energy after a loss. I guess my friend's text that I got after the race summed it up- "she is one hell of a horse. If it had to happen, I'm glad it happened like that."

That's why the HOTY title doesn't matter to me at all. Whether she wins or loses, it can't diminish what I experienced on Saturday, and it can't erase all the ways in which she brought the fans of a fractured sport together.

[Izvestia]

Yes I do remember him being retired because of questions about soundness. It still robbed him of any chance of proving what he was really made of though.

[Izvestia]

The Classic was different. There was the initial stunned silence, yes, but there was no anger, no booing the winner, no tears that I ever saw. The crowd respected what they had seen far too much to stoop to that. Zenyatta received a rousing cheer coming back, and Blame got a round of applause too. When I walked out, the people around me were still talking about the race- from "she was much the best" to "that's horse racing" to "I still love her." There was disappointment, there was sadness, but there was no bitterness. And that's what made it special. I've been to eight Belmonts and four Breeders Cups, but I've never felt such positive energy after a loss. I guess my friend's text that I got after the race summed it up- "she is one hell of a horse. If it had to happen, I'm glad it happened like that."

That's why the HOTY title doesn't matter to me at all. Whether she wins or loses, it can't diminish what I experienced on Saturday, and it can't erase all the ways in which she brought the fans of a fractured sport together.

Exactly, THIS! I too don't care too much about HOTY. I mean it would be great if she got it but ultimately it doesn't mean anything in the long run. To me, the biggest thing I am just curious about is if she will race or be retired. But I do really, honestly think that she could potentially be standing on an opportunity to really do something special if she continues to race. But as with all horse racing - it's a big gamble. I do not envy her connections and the position they are in right now regarding the decision that has to be made. It's a very huge decision, unlike anything I've seen in all my years of watching racing.

[TheFlyingFilly]

Zenyatta heading to the paddock to be saddled for the Classic:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qandIgug2eQ

The BC Classic race itself, my view from the first turn:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gbw8FTaX9Rc

My BC tickets for Friday and Saturday were far down the clubhouse near the first turn. On Friday, I was able to move up near the wire by the rail, near where the horses are unsadded after the race. A lot of people apparently bought seats for both days, but decided to skip Friday. Very nice views of the post parades, stretch runs, flower ceremonies, etc.

On Saturday I was able to be a squatter in that area for the undercard races, but by the time the Breeders' Cup races started, people started filing in and I had to move. My own seat wasn't too great, so I snagged a chair and went even further down the first turn. All the horses had to pass that way on the way in to be saddled, on the gallop out after the race, and being led back to the barn area, so it was a good spot to see horses close up with no heads in the way. I am a short person, LOL.

Much as I love Zenyatta, I was not going to stand on the paddock rail all day and miss the other Breeders' Cup races. I got an up close and personal view of Goldikova on her way to the paddock, and she had her game face on, like a determined deer.
Small but mighty, indeed.

I also got a good look at my second and possibly third Kentucky Derby winners of that week. I had petted Funny Cide's nose at the Kentucky Horse Park on Tuesday, but on that Saturday I saw Mine That Bird run in the Dirt Mile and Uncle Mo romp in the Juvenile.

I also got to see Frankie Dettori celebrate after winning a race, and do his "flying dismount" in the distance.

By the time Zenyatta was ready to run, even my first turn place was packed. By the colors of the tickets hanging around necks, I could see people had come down from even the 3rd floor and above to "slum" with us and get a good view of her.

After the race:

Zenyatta and Mike Smith return:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gai0SmOd6s

Zenyatta going back to her barn:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zH2_UKIb2j0

The next day, I was able to finally meet her:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUuQxI4tfRk

Mary MMM


Wonderful videos, thanks for sharing.

[Hermes]

Is it true that the dreaded Draynay capitulated after the Classic?

[islandgirl45]

Is it true that the dreaded Draynay capitulated after the Classic?

Hmm, he's been posting for a couple days on Jason Shandler's blog badmouthing Z as just a poly horse and bragging how he cheered for Blame and made money on him. He appears to have forgotten he loudly predicted Quality Road would run a monster race in the Classic and we would find out 1-1/4 miles was a good distance for him. Now, the 'Nay is all about Blame, as if he picked him from the beginning.

[Kurenai]

http://www.youtube.com/user/13roughshod#p/a/u/2/K2dXKaoE3Qw

some nice videos of Zenyatta before the race, filmed from inside the paddock and following her to the track. :)

[Man o' Taz]

This Breeders Cup was a special time for me. It was my first visit to Churchill Downs where I would see live racing.

My wife and I drove up from Lexington early on Friday, a little bit before noon since racing did not start until 2:00 with the late start, and were originally going to park at Papa John's Stadium and take a shuttle over. However, we were able to find street parking as it happened near Zenyatta's barn. It was late and there was no chance of seeing Zenyatta, but we did walk by and wonder what she was doing.

The next day we decided to leave early and were listening to the Horse Racing Radio Network at about 9:00 AM and they were discussing Zenyatta was on the track for a light gallop. We were still about 30 minutes from Louisville, but the thought crossed our mind that we might have a chance to see her if she were permitted to graze after her hot-walking. So, we decided to skip stopping for breakfast and drive straight through.

We were rewarded when we saw a horse grazing upon our arrival. Sure enough it was her. There were about 10-15 people gathered. She was about 25-30 feet away and her groom was letting her graze as she wished. She would look up occasionally at the assembled onlookers and then return to grazing showing some curiousity, but not enough to alter her desire for more fresh grass.

As we watched and snapped pictures, she lifted her head and headed for some leaves along the fence that we were all on the opposite side of. The crowd moved with her and before we knew it she was within six inches of many of us. One gentleman took the liberty of gently stroking her nose as she burrowed for leaves. Another indicated worry at the fact that she seemed to eat a twig. It was a magical experience. Here we were all standing with this great thoroughbred like kids at a circus. It made the visit to Churchill Downs. The opportunity to stand in such close proximity with Zenyatta was quite special. Most of us had come to see just her. The other great racing was a considerable consolation, but she was the feature event.

Just thought I would share. Maybe some of you were within that group of onlookers enjoying her as we did. :)

[TheFlyingFilly]

May as well share...this is my account of the Breeder's Cup:

http://deafequinefanatic.blogspot.com/2010/11/still-pinching-myself-recap-of-breeders.html

[EquineAnne]

Thanks to all for sharing.

[Izvestia]

May as well share...this is my account of the Breeder's Cup:

http://deafequinefanatic.blogspot.com/2010/11/still-pinching-myself-recap-of-breeders.html

Thanks for this. It's always fun to read others accounts. That day is burned into my memory..that one will never go away.

[TheFlyingFilly]

Thanks for this. It's always fun to read others accounts. That day is burned into my memory..that one will never go away.

I agree...it's a memory I will forever cherish. I don't think I've even come down from it, yet!

[Liztannica]

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2010/11/11/zenyatta-stirred-the-emotions.aspx

Haskins Zenyatta blog

[islandgirl45]

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2010/11/11/zenyatta-stirred-the-emotions.aspx

Haskins Zenyatta blog

A lovely story about a special mare. And how cool is it that Z's connections flew someone in to see her after reading that was her dream?

[Liztannica]

A lovely story about a special mare. And how cool is it that Z's connections flew someone in to see her after reading that was her dream?

Classy people. I cannot wait for my Bloodhorse Zenyatta issue which features this article

[Secretariat Forever]

Those photos are adorable. Haskin giving Z a big kiss!

[GinTalking]

There are so many Zenyatta threads that I'm not sure where to put something silly like this ... but I love the Thoroughbred Times cover ...

19 and Oh, No

Pretty much says it all.

[JT Dancer]

I finally transferred the videos I took Sunday morning to youtube, including one of Steve Willard talking about Z and what she has meant to him (and that he really thought she would retire this time). The others are just film of her posing for pictures, enjoying attention, messing with leaves. She really is not like most other thoroughbreds (or other horses period); she's so calm and sweet, you could not tell that she is a super fit athlete who just ran 1 1/4 miles the day before.

http://www.youtube.com/user/cdwaugh

[The Tin Man]

Haven't had a chance to go through all of my Zenny pics from today ... But here are some that stand out so far ... Once again, she was SO calm, cool and sedate. Just posing and chilling and nuzzling and eating everything in sight! Grass, carrots and especially peppermints! She LOVES those!!

[The Tin Man]

And a few more ...

[Bickersons]

And a few more ...

You see those three idiots taking pictures in your second photo? I am one of those idiots.

[islandgirl45]

And a few more ...

I like the first one where she looks like she's thinking, "He's got something for me!"

[Railbird]

The Mosses and Co. will be meeting next week to discuss plans for her future. Until she goes to Kentucky, she'll stay in light training in California.

Also, Jack Van Berg thinks she should be HOTY.

http://www.drf.com/news/zenyatta-still-light-training-looks-no-worse-wear

[EquineAnne]

The Mosses and Co. will be meeting next week to discuss plans for her future. Until she goes to Kentucky, she'll stay in light training in California.

Also, Jack Van Berg thinks she should be HOTY.

http://www.drf.com/news/zenyatta-still-light-training-looks-no-worse-wear

they non-believers will just say he's old and senile.

[Citation07]

The Mosses and Co. will be meeting next week to discuss plans for her future. Until she goes to Kentucky, she'll stay in light training in California.

Also, Jack Van Berg thinks she should be HOTY.

http://www.drf.com/news/zenyatta-still-light-training-looks-no-worse-wear

I've got every finger and toe crossed that she comes back, so long as she's healthy and happy.

[Came Home]

Have an extra $2000+ laying around? http://cgi.ebay.com/ZENYATTA-WORN-TRACK-HALTER-w-SHIRREFFS-LOA-EXTRAS-/120644516787?pt=US_Solo_Sports_Fan_Shop&hash=item1c16f93bb3

[Cantant]

Recalling some Zen-moments in a tribute:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e__kL4UftWY

[Della]

Wow! That is brilliant. Great job with the editing - you really used the music effectively. Thanks for sharing - love it!

[PJMIII]

Recalling some Zen-moments in a tribute:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e__kL4UftWY

Great job. Thanks a lot. :)

[The Tin Man]

You see those three idiots taking pictures in your second photo? I am one of those idiots.

Hmmmmm ... I wonder which one of the "idiots" you were? ;-)

[Sun King]

If they keep her in training, I will dance around the room with glee!

[Bickersons]

Hmmmmm ... I wonder which one of the "idiots" you were? ;-)

That will remain under wraps <g>.

[EquineAnne]

If they keep her in training, I will dance around the room with glee!

And I will book my ticket to LA.

[Blue Jeans]

Haven't had a chance to go through all of my Zenny pics from today ... But here are some that stand out so far ... Once again, she was SO calm, cool and sedate. Just posing and chilling and nuzzling and eating everything in sight! Grass, carrots and especially peppermints! She LOVES those!!

These are great, TTM. Were these the pics you were going to send a couple weeks ago or are these more recent? Whatever, no need to send any now, huh? These will do just fine.

Thanks. Great pics. :)

[The Tin Man]

That will remain under wraps <g>.

If you took a picture with her, I may have one of you ... If you did, PM me and let me know. If I got you, I'll e-mail a copy to you. :)

[The Tin Man]

These are great, TTM. Were these the pics you were going to send a couple weeks ago or are these more recent? Whatever, no need to send any now, huh? These will do just fine.

Thanks. Great pics. :)

These ones were from Thursday the 11th ... I have a lot more good ones from then, plus a whole bunch from October 22nd too. PM me your e-mail and I'll send them to you.

And I'm glad you liked the ones on here ... I have a lot of other really good ones too. :)

[Hermes]

I know this has probably been posted else where no doubt, but here is Tim Layden at SI, a great writer, on the BC (and boy, does he let Seth Hancock have it.) And I don't think he has a vote, as I don't even think he is a member of the oh so esteemed NTWA, but of course they even have dead people listed as members, so who knows.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/tim_layden/11/06/breeders.cup.blame.zenyatta/index.html

excerpt:

In a cold, statistical light, Zenyatta needed to win Saturday's race to burnish her legacy. Detractors can now say that she never beat top males on dirt, that she was never Horse of the Year (Hancock is probably right, Blame is likely to win that award, after Rachel Alexandra won it last year, despite never facing Zenyatta).
Those measurements are accurate, and we live in a statistical age. Yet they are also insufficient. By the grace of her owners, Ann and Jerry Moss, and her trainer, John Shirreffs, Zenyatta kept her sport on the stage when there is a creeping urge to push it aside. And on the day when she was most challenged, she overcome nearly all of it. She was -- and is -- far bigger than her one defeat.

Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/tim_layden/11/06/breeders.cup.blame.zenyatta/index.html#ixzz15EHQQWhZ

[Hermes]

I am sure this was bound to have been posted here, but I just read it and it is a great fun profile of Z and her peeps.

http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/eticket/story?page=101104/Zenyatta

[islandgirl45]

I am sure this was bound to have been posted here, but I just read it and it is a great fun profile of Z and her peeps.

http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/eticket/story?page=101104/Zenyatta

Love that one picture where she's doing her best Mr. Ed impression!:)

[daisy]

http://www.thepilot.com/news/2010/nov/14/dont-blame-sentiment-zenyatta-should-be-horse-year/

VERY interesting re: Moss vs. Claiborne & retirement

[Hermes]

http://www.thepilot.com/news/2010/nov/14/dont-blame-sentiment-zenyatta-should-be-horse-year/

VERY interesting re: Moss vs. Claiborne & retirement

The writer might have a bias.

Although I was surprised she didn't go further with it, too.

I don't think being cold and heartless businessman owner is criteria for not voting for Blame, although it doesn't hurt to know that a vote for Z rewards a couple who take care of their horses.

[GreenasGrass]

Why is that I can't find an article that says why Zenyatta should be Horse of the Year based solely on her accomplishments this year alone? Why is it that every article starts out with "well she was deserving in year "X" and she was robbed and she's so pretty..ect...?". Honestly it becomes tiresome because there is a case to be made for why she should be HoY. It can be made without insulting the voters(I've seen this a lot and I'm scratching my head because it seems counterproductive) or other horses. Honestly it can. I'll be back in an hour or so with a pro Zenyatta piece to prove the point.

[Hermes]

Why is that I can't find an article that says why Zenyatta should be Horse of the Year based solely on her accomplishments this year alone? Why is it that every article starts out with "well she was deserving in year "X" and she was robbed and she's so pretty..ect...?". Honestly it becomes tiresome because there is a case to be made for why she should be HoY. It can be made without insulting the voters(I've seen this a lot and I'm scratching my head because it seems counterproductive) or other horses. Honestly it can. I'll be back in an hour or so with a pro Zenyatta piece to prove the point.

Try this. If she was age 4 and ran the same campaign she ran this year and lost the Classic to Blame, would you vote her HOY? I didn't think so.

But she is Zenyatta, and she transcends history and the sport now. And no one doubts her ability any longer, and no one can ignore 19 for 20, with a Distaff, a BC Classic, and that she was arguably the best horse in this year's Classic, too.

[Old Bones]

Why is that I can't find an article that says why Zenyatta should be Horse of the Year based solely on her accomplishments this year alone? Why is it that every article starts out with "well she was deserving in year "X" and she was robbed and she's so pretty..ect...?". Honestly it becomes tiresome because there is a case to be made for why she should be HoY. It can be made without insulting the voters(I've seen this a lot and I'm scratching my head because it seems counterproductive) or other horses. Honestly it can. I'll be back in an hour or so with a pro Zenyatta piece to prove the point.

I also do not like reading "Zenyatta was robbed". It is an insult to not only the voters but to the horses who ran their races and achieved the award.

I hope Zenyatta is honored this year for all she has done. Great if she wins, it will be good for the sport and she is deserving. Great if Blame wins, he is also deserving.

[Daliapour]

Zenyatta heading to the paddock to be saddled for the Classic:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qandIgug2eQ

The BC Classic race itself, my view from the first turn:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gbw8FTaX9Rc

My BC tickets for Friday and Saturday were far down the clubhouse near the first turn. On Friday, I was able to move up near the wire by the rail, near where the horses are unsadded after the race. A lot of people apparently bought seats for both days, but decided to skip Friday. Very nice views of the post parades, stretch runs, flower ceremonies, etc.

On Saturday I was able to be a squatter in that area for the undercard races, but by the time the Breeders' Cup races started, people started filing in and I had to move. My own seat wasn't too great, so I snagged a chair and went even further down the first turn. All the horses had to pass that way on the way in to be saddled, on the gallop out after the race, and being led back to the barn area, so it was a good spot to see horses close up with no heads in the way. I am a short person, LOL.

Much as I love Zenyatta, I was not going to stand on the paddock rail all day and miss the other Breeders' Cup races. I got an up close and personal view of Goldikova on her way to the paddock, and she had her game face on, like a determined deer.
Small but mighty, indeed.

I also got a good look at my second and possibly third Kentucky Derby winners of that week. I had petted Funny Cide's nose at the Kentucky Horse Park on Tuesday, but on that Saturday I saw Mine That Bird run in the Dirt Mile and Uncle Mo romp in the Juvenile.

I also got to see Frankie Dettori celebrate after winning a race, and do his "flying dismount" in the distance.

By the time Zenyatta was ready to run, even my first turn place was packed. By the colors of the tickets hanging around necks, I could see people had come down from even the 3rd floor and above to "slum" with us and get a good view of her.

After the race:

Zenyatta and Mike Smith return:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gai0SmOd6s

Zenyatta going back to her barn:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zH2_UKIb2j0

The next day, I was able to finally meet her:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUuQxI4tfRk

Mary MMM

Mary,

Thank you for posting these videos. The reception the crowd gives her when she returns is one of the most heartwarming things I've seen in a long time. I think it says so much about Zenyatta that, when as a heavy favourite returns beaten, she gets a cheer like that. She earned it.

The video of your meeting with her left me with such a smile too. I am going to show people that video when they make disparaging "crazy thoroughbred" comments. I will get over to the US to meet her one day - I am so grateful to her connections that even though I haven't been able to meet her in person yet, they are so willing to share Zenyatta with the world.

[The Tin Man]

Mary,

Thank you for posting these videos. The reception the crowd gives her when she returns is one of the most heartwarming things I've seen in a long time. I think it says so much about Zenyatta that, when as a heavy favourite returns beaten, she gets a cheer like that. She earned it.

The video of your meeting with her left me with such a smile too. I am going to show people that video when they make disparaging "crazy thoroughbred" comments. I will get over to the US to meet her one day - I am so grateful to her connections that even though I haven't been able to meet her in person yet, they are so willing to share Zenyatta with the world.

Great Dalia! It's nice to see that Zenny has faithful fans overseas also. Nice to see you here. :)

[Citation07]

372373374375

Some pics from today. I didn't know it was possible to be this in love with a horse. <3

[The Tin Man]

372373374375

Some pics from today. I didn't know it was possible to be this in love with a horse. <3

Fantastic pics Citation! I'm SOOOOO glad you were able to get over and see her! Way to take advantage!

I hope you got to touch her and get your pic with her too. :)

[BARNFOUR]

Fantastic pics Citation! I'm SOOOOO glad you were able to get over and see her! Way to take advantage!

I hope you got to touch her and get your pic with her too. :)

Tinny,years ago I took a picture with Niatross the day after his last start.Niatross was 37 for 39 with his only losses occuring because he broke stride one time and another time he spooked and jumped over the guardrail.I had goosebumps being around him.He might have been the greatest harness horse of all time!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niatross

[hagginwood]

interesting factoid regarding the BC Classic - no 6 year old has ever won it. I don't have the data on who was the oldest to come in 2nd.

[islandgirl45]

372373374375

Some pics from today. I didn't know it was possible to be this in love with a horse. <3

Great pictures! What kind of tree is that? She's really into it.:)

[The Tin Man]

Tinny,years ago I took a picture with Niatross the day after his last start.Niatross was 37 for 39 with his only losses occuring because he broke stride one time and another time he spooked and jumped over the guardrail.I had goosebumps being around him.He might have been the greatest harness horse of all time!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niatross

Oh wow! That's cool Barny!

Yeah ... There's something about being around a horse that has that living legend type aura about them.

Glad you got that experience. Gotta make those lifetime memories when we get the chance. :)

Heck ... Once she's gone, I guess I'll have to track down Lava Man. He's the only horse still at the tracks in SoCal that I'd be THAT excited to see. Gonna be hunting Dougie O'Neill down soon! :evil:

[personalensign79]

That finish photo made "This Week in Pictures" and is in third place :) (photo#18) http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40135132/ns/news/displaymode/1247/?beginSlide=1

[breezing]

Heck ... Once she's gone, I guess I'll have to track down Lava Man. He's the only horse still at the tracks in SoCal that I'd be THAT excited to see. Gonna be hunting Dougie O'Neill down soon! :evil:
if you ever have the chance to meet Unzip Me, do so. she is an absolute dollbaby.

[violabella]

Why is that I can't find an article that says why Zenyatta should be Horse of the Year based solely on her accomplishments this year alone? Why is it that every article starts out with "well she was deserving in year "X" and she was robbed and she's so pretty..ect...?". Honestly it becomes tiresome because there is a case to be made for why she should be HoY. It can be made without insulting the voters(I've seen this a lot and I'm scratching my head because it seems counterproductive) or other horses. Honestly it can. I'll be back in an hour or so with a pro Zenyatta piece to prove the point.

Some of the letters to the editor have been persuasive. A friend of mine wrote this:

In 1978, Exceller won six Grade 1 races on dirt and turf, proving to be not only talented but also versatile. He defeated 1977 Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, which at that time was the decisive fall championship event. Seattle Slew was so game in defeat, however, that few who saw that race have yet forgotten it. The voters rewarded his courage and the horse who was obviously the best in that race with an Eclipse Award as top older male. They did not concede the award to the winner of the race. In fact, had Affirmed not won the Triple Crown that same year, there is little doubt Seattle Slew would have been named Horse of the Year.

Flash forward 32 years and I am baffled that everybody is ready to concede Horse of the Year to Blame without question. In a controversial decision last year, they weren't willing to concede it to Zenyatta when she won the Classic and made history. So why are they so willing to concede it to Blame this year?


Zenyatta was, unquestionably, the best horse in the Classic. She was gallant in a defeat of mere inches, and if she had gotten a hold of Blame's home track just a stride or two quicker, she would have won. Had she been confident on that track from the break, she might have beaten him by open lengths.


Zenyatta won more Grade 1 races, at more tracks, and on two different surfaces. In fact, she raced exclusively in Grade 1 company while Blame was winning a Grade 3 at Pimlico. Both Zenyatta and Blame had one loss in 2010, and there is no comparison between the Breeders' Cup Classic and Blame's four-length drubbing in the Jockey Club Gold Cup. Blame couldn't close off a slow early pace that day, something Zenyatta has had to face many times in her near-perfect career, without excuse.


Zenyatta's most recent foe before the ¬Classic, Switch, came back to finish second in the BC Filly and Mare Sprint, whereas Gold Cup winner Haynesfield and Whitney runner-up Quality Road finished in the last two positions in the Classic, beaten more than 20 lengths by Blame and Zenyatta.


If the voters wanted to downgrade Zenyatta last year for winning the Classic because she had an advantage on her home track, why wouldn't the same apply to Blame this year? Give the title to Zenyatta, for she deserves it more and anything else would be a slap in the face to the Queen, her connections, her legion of fans, and in fact to the sport itself.

[The Tin Man]

if you ever have the chance to meet Unzip Me, do so. she is an absolute dollbaby.

Oh wow! Cool! I'd like to. She's one of my favorites currently running in SoCal. Is she fairly accessible too? :)

[DesertHeat]

Oh wow! Cool! I'd like to. She's one of my favorites currently running in SoCal. Is she fairly accessible too? :)

Omg do it - she is itty and wonderful.

[The Tin Man]

Omg do it - she is itty and wonderful.

If you know how I'd go about it with her, PM me the protocol please. :becky:

[Happy Endings]

Some of the letters to the editor have been persuasive. A friend of mine wrote this:

In 1978, Exceller won six Grade 1 races on dirt and turf, proving to be not only talented but also versatile. He defeated 1977 Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, which at that time was the decisive fall championship event. Seattle Slew was so game in defeat, however, that few who saw that race have yet forgotten it. The voters rewarded his courage and the horse who was obviously the best in that race with an Eclipse Award as top older male. They did not concede the award to the winner of the race. In fact, had Affirmed not won the Triple Crown that same year, there is little doubt Seattle Slew would have been named Horse of the Year.

Flash forward 32 years and I am baffled that everybody is ready to concede Horse of the Year to Blame without question. In a controversial decision last year, they weren't willing to concede it to Zenyatta when she won the Classic and made history. So why are they so willing to concede it to Blame this year?


Zenyatta was, unquestionably, the best horse in the Classic. She was gallant in a defeat of mere inches, and if she had gotten a hold of Blame's home track just a stride or two quicker, she would have won. Had she been confident on that track from the break, she might have beaten him by open lengths.


Zenyatta won more Grade 1 races, at more tracks, and on two different surfaces. In fact, she raced exclusively in Grade 1 company while Blame was winning a Grade 3 at Pimlico. Both Zenyatta and Blame had one loss in 2010, and there is no comparison between the Breeders' Cup Classic and Blame's four-length drubbing in the Jockey Club Gold Cup. Blame couldn't close off a slow early pace that day, something Zenyatta has had to face many times in her near-perfect career, without excuse.


Zenyatta's most recent foe before the ¬Classic, Switch, came back to finish second in the BC Filly and Mare Sprint, whereas Gold Cup winner Haynesfield and Whitney runner-up Quality Road finished in the last two positions in the Classic, beaten more than 20 lengths by Blame and Zenyatta.


If the voters wanted to downgrade Zenyatta last year for winning the Classic because she had an advantage on her home track, why wouldn't the same apply to Blame this year? Give the title to Zenyatta, for she deserves it more and anything else would be a slap in the face to the Queen, her connections, her legion of fans, and in fact to the sport itself.

I believe I read that over on DRF. Compliment your friend for me. Very nice piece of writing.

[Bickersons]

Some of the letters to the editor have been persuasive. A friend of mine wrote this:

In 1978, Exceller won six Grade 1 races on dirt and turf, proving to be not only talented but also versatile. He defeated 1977 Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, which at that time was the decisive fall championship event. Seattle Slew was so game in defeat, however, that few who saw that race have yet forgotten it. The voters rewarded his courage and the horse who was obviously the best in that race with an Eclipse Award as top older male. They did not concede the award to the winner of the race. In fact, had Affirmed not won the Triple Crown that same year, there is little doubt Seattle Slew would have been named Horse of the Year.

Flash forward 32 years and I am baffled that everybody is ready to concede Horse of the Year to Blame without question. In a controversial decision last year, they weren't willing to concede it to Zenyatta when she won the Classic and made history. So why are they so willing to concede it to Blame this year?


Zenyatta was, unquestionably, the best horse in the Classic. She was gallant in a defeat of mere inches, and if she had gotten a hold of Blame's home track just a stride or two quicker, she would have won. Had she been confident on that track from the break, she might have beaten him by open lengths.


Zenyatta won more Grade 1 races, at more tracks, and on two different surfaces. In fact, she raced exclusively in Grade 1 company while Blame was winning a Grade 3 at Pimlico. Both Zenyatta and Blame had one loss in 2010, and there is no comparison between the Breeders' Cup Classic and Blame's four-length drubbing in the Jockey Club Gold Cup. Blame couldn't close off a slow early pace that day, something Zenyatta has had to face many times in her near-perfect career, without excuse.


Zenyatta's most recent foe before the ¬Classic, Switch, came back to finish second in the BC Filly and Mare Sprint, whereas Gold Cup winner Haynesfield and Whitney runner-up Quality Road finished in the last two positions in the Classic, beaten more than 20 lengths by Blame and Zenyatta.


If the voters wanted to downgrade Zenyatta last year for winning the Classic because she had an advantage on her home track, why wouldn't the same apply to Blame this year? Give the title to Zenyatta, for she deserves it more and anything else would be a slap in the face to the Queen, her connections, her legion of fans, and in fact to the sport itself.

Interesting... she's a friend of mine as well! And just for the people who have decided, unjustly, that Zenyatta's supporters are a bunch of hysterical Twilight fans, this is one of the many, many reasoned, informed opinions on why Zenyatta deserves HOTY.

Also, Native Dancer.

That is all.

:)

[Slewbopper]

Tinny,years ago I took a picture with Niatross the day after his last start.Niatross was 37 for 39 with his only losses occuring because he broke stride one time and another time he spooked and jumped over the guardrail.I had goosebumps being around him.He might have been the greatest harness horse of all time!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niatross

Bid and Niatross last raced in 1980. There hasn't been a better thorobred or stand bred since.

BTW...Niatross jumped the rail at Saratoga.

[PJMIII]

From brisnet.com

Two-time champion ZENYATTA (Street Cry [Ire]) jogged on the training track Saturday, her first time out of the barn since returning from Churchill Downs last weekend.

[Commentator]

Bid and Niatross last raced in 1980. There hasn't been a better thorobred or stand bred since.

BTW...Niatross jumped the rail at Saratoga.
My uncle, who does not follow horse racing in the least, somehow saw that race in person. To this day, he maintains that it is the craziest thing he has ever seen. Which, knowing him, is really saying something.

[Citation07]

Fantastic pics Citation! I'm SOOOOO glad you were able to get over and see her! Way to take advantage!

I hope you got to touch her and get your pic with her too. :)

Zenyatta was awesome and her people were so nice. I got to feed her peppermints and carrots and gave her a goodbye kiss on the nose. I got several pics with her and my friends did as well. It was such a great day! I can't thank Steve Willard, John Shirreffs, the Mosses, and Frank (the man that was holding her) enough for being so accommodating and letting the fans back to see her. It's a memory I'll never forget and will always treasure. :becky:

@ Islandgirl - Not sure what type of tree it was, but she was very, very interested in it. I think part of it was because of the shade it offered - it was over 80 by the time we left.

[Horsebagger]

Interesting... she's a friend of mine as well! And just for the people who have decided, unjustly, that Zenyatta's supporters are a bunch of hysterical Twilight fans, this is one of the many, many reasoned, informed opinions on why Zenyatta deserves HOTY.

Also, Native Dancer.

That is all.

:)

Someone will have to explain to me how Switch getting hammered by Dubai Majesty in the restricted Filly and Mare Sprint after a nose defeat to Zenyatta in a route race is "reasoned and imformed" as an argument that Zenyatta deserves HOY. There are plenty of other arguments in her defense. This is not one of them.

[Man o' Taz]

I believe I read that over on DRF. Compliment your friend for me. Very nice piece of writing.

Many of us have raised these same points already... :)

Folks of an opposite opinion want to suggest that our positions are based "on emotions" but it seems that is because they do not want to take into account the reasons we offer - some of which are articulated in that well written letter...

Its easier to try and dismiss an opposing point of view as irrational... :rolleyes:

[PONYRCR]

Zenyatta was awesome and her people were so nice. I got to feed her peppermints and carrots and gave her a goodbye kiss on the nose. I got several pics with her and my friends did as well. It was such a great day! I can't thank Steve Willard, John Shirreffs, the Mosses, and Frank (the man that was holding her) enough for being so accommodating and letting the fans back to see her. It's a memory I'll never forget and will always treasure. :becky:

@ Islandgirl - Not sure what type of tree it was, but she was very, very interested in it. I think part of it was because of the shade it offered - it was over 80 by the time we left.

She liked standing under that tree when I saw her Saturday. I have a few shots of her scratching an itch on that tree. Citation07 is that the orange tabby barn cat in your avatar? That cat was such a love bug. I don't suppose you know the cat's name? I took a few pics of it and would like to label them with his name.

[DesertHeat]

She liked standing under that tree when I saw her Saturday. I have a few shots of her scratching an itch on that tree. Citation07 is that the orange tabby barn cat in your avatar? That cat was such a love bug. I don't suppose you know the cat's name? I took a few pics of it and would like to label them with his name.

She's a rare orange female, and her name is Mishka :-)

[PONYRCR]

She's a rare orange female, and her name is Mishka :-)


Thanks DH. She was a real sweetie.

[The Tin Man]

Per my discussions with her connections last Thursday, they are ALL in favor of retiring her now. I think they're all paranoid of risking injury. With the exception of ONE person who wants to keep her running. That person is ... Ann Moss.

We'll see about the true power of a woman. I know she carries a lot of clout there, but I doubt enough to pull it off.

While I totally understand her wanting to keep living in the moment with the horse she loves SO dearly, I'd be scared to death of something happening to her. I'd love to see her keep running, but I'd love to know she's out of the game safe and sound even more.

While I want to pull for Ann and I know she seems like a wonderful person who loves Zenny dearly, I'm too paranoid about her getting hurt. So I'm pulling for the masses to overrule her ... Even though I'd greedily love to see her run again.

On a side note, it's SO adorable to see the way Ann adores Zenny and the things she says to her and calls her. I even read somewhere that she sometimes calls a groom on the phone and has them hold the phone to Zenny's ear so she can talk to her, tell her she loves her and all that jazz. That's wonderful. :)

[PONYRCR]

I'm with you Tinny. Part of me would LOVE to see her run again next year. And another part of me just wants to go WHEW! glad it's over and know she's retired safe and sound. I can make an arguement in either direction.

I would not want to trade places with the Mosses at this juncture.

[The Tin Man]

I'm with you Tinny. Part of me would LOVE to see her run again next year. And another part of me just wants to go WHEW! glad it's over and know she's retired safe and sound. I can make an arguement in either direction.

I would not want to trade places with the Mosses at this juncture.

Yeah ... That's why I'm cool with whatever they decide.

Although, if she runs again, I'll hold my breath every race. For reasons other than winning.

[Reposmoral]

Someone will have to explain to me how Switch getting hammered by Dubai Majesty in the restricted Filly and Mare Sprint after a nose defeat to Zenyatta in a route race is "reasoned and imformed" as an argument that Zenyatta deserves HOY. There are plenty of other arguments in her defense. This is not one of them.

Umm... nitpicker here... Zenyatta didn't win over Switch by a "nose".

Looked like half a length to 3/4 of a length to me.

Not saying it should change your opinion on these matters, but at least get the facts straight.

[The Tin Man]

Someone will have to explain to me how Switch getting hammered by Dubai Majesty in the restricted Filly and Mare Sprint after a nose defeat to Zenyatta in a route race is "reasoned and imformed" as an argument that Zenyatta deserves HOY. There are plenty of other arguments in her defense. This is not one of them.

I find this humorous ... Since when does losing by 2 lengths constitute getting "hammered"? When usage of that term makes your case sound stronger? ;-)

So what happened to Blame when he lost by 4 1/2 to Haynesfield?

If 2 lengths constitutes "hammered" ... What does 4 1/2 lengths constitute?

Your usage of that term makes your horse sound worse since he was beaten by more than twice that distance to a horse that finished at the back of the pack in The Classic.

Just sayin' ...

[Horsebagger]

Umm... nitpicker here... Zenyatta didn't win over Switch by a "nose".

Looked like half a length to 3/4 of a length to me.

Not saying it should change your opinion on these matters, but at least get the facts straight.

That's fair. Chart said 1/2 length and I was too lazy to look it up.

[Blue Jeans]

Some pics from today. I didn't know it was possible to be this in love with a horse. <3

Fun pics. Thanks for posting.

I know CA fans are going to miss her terribly, but, then so many of us have had her as #1 on our minds and in our hearts. She's been on my mind and in my heart for three years.

I picked up on Zenyatta soon after Rags (my other fav gal) left the track later in 2007. Thanks to a CA fan who knew Z was a winner .... way back when! I still remember the 'username' from another site ... she adored Zenyatta. Shared pics and stories of Z then, and said to keep an eye on that one. Boy! Was she right!

[Horsebagger]

I find this humorous ... Since when does losing by 2 lengths constitute getting "hammered"? When usage of that term makes your case sound stronger? ;-)

So what happened to Blame when he lost by 4 1/2 to Haynesfield?

If 2 lengths constitutes "hammered" ... What does 4 1/2 lengths constitute?

Your usage of that term makes your horse sound worse since he was beaten by more than twice that distance to a horse that finished at the back of the pack in The Classic.

Just sayin' ...

Nobody is "my horse". Blame got crushed by Haynesfield. In his prep for the Breeders Cup Classic, Blame didn't fire his best race and got crushed by a horse who did. Where was that disputed? Facts are facts. Like Blame won the Breeders Cup Classic, and Zenyatta finished a gallant, courageous, inspiring second. We can describe all we want about how Z overcame so much, but when my wife put her win ticket on Zenyatta into the SAM machine after the race, it still said "ticket not a winner". The fact is she lost a head to head race against Blame, and Switch finishing second in a restricted sprint race against a mare who likely won't be winning any awards this year is completely irrelevant, so I'm not sure why it's mentioned in such an "informed" article. So is the fact that Haynesfield finished near the back in the Classic. If they invited everybody back next month and ran the race again, Z will be favored again, and its still not an assurance that she will win, or that's she's even the best horse. Races have to be run, and results speak loudest of all. Just ask Easy Goer how that works out sometimes.

[The Tin Man]

Nobody is "my horse". Blame got crushed by Haynesfield. In his prep for the Breeders Cup Classic, Blame didn't fire his best race and got crushed by a horse who did. Where was that disputed? Facts are facts. Like Blame won the Breeders Cup Classic, and Zenyatta finished a gallant, courageous, inspiring second. We can describe all we want about how Z overcame so much, but when my wife put her win ticket on Zenyatta into the SAM machine after the race, it still said "ticket not a winner". The fact is she lost a head to head race against Blame, and Switch finishing second in a restricted sprint race against a mare who likely won't be winning any awards this year is completely irrelevant, so I'm not sure why it's mentioned in such an "informed" article. So is the fact that Haynesfield finished near the back in the Classic. If they invited everybody back next month and ran the race again, Z will be favored again, and its still not an assurance that she will win, or that's she's even the best horse. Races have to be run, and results speak loudest of all. Just ask Easy Goer how that works out sometimes.

Blame won ... No disputing that. And just for the record, I haven't voted in the TBC HOTY polls because I really don't know who should get it. I'm glad I don't have an Eclipse vote.

I'll give you this much ... If to you, losing by 2 lengths is getting "hammered" and losing by 4 1/2 is getting "crushed" ... I'm OK with your terminology.

You just failed to mention that Haynesfield "crushed" Blame. Seemed a little one sided and biased to me that you would use very demeaning terminolgy for Switch's defeat and not do the same regarding Blame's.

But now that you've set the record straight and balanced it a bit, I'm cool with it. ;-)

[Bickersons]

Someone will have to explain to me how Switch getting hammered by Dubai Majesty in the restricted Filly and Mare Sprint after a nose defeat to Zenyatta in a route race is "reasoned and imformed" as an argument that Zenyatta deserves HOY. There are plenty of other arguments in her defense. This is not one of them.

I think someone jumped on this already, but Haynesfield. And I don't believe that Zenyatta beating Switch is why she deserves HOTY, so I don't know where you got THAT from. Look, here's the deal. If the only thing that matters to you in the HOTY vote is numbers, then fine. But for me, racing will always have that intangible, and Zenyatta has it in spades. Also, as there is historical precedence -- and nothing in the rules that says the HOTY has to have achieved something specific. My point is that people are free to vote however they want, but that a cogent argument can be made for Zenyatta that exists outside of emotion.

[Somnambulist]

.You just failed to mention that Haynesfield "crushed" Blame. Seemed a little one sided and biased to me that you would use very demeaning terminolgy for Switch's defeat and not do the same regarding Blame's.

No, you just read what you want to and nitpick and see what you want.

Still waiting for those posts where I "incessantly" degrade Zenyatta, BTW.

[The Tin Man]

No, you just read what you want to and nitpick and see what you want.

Still waiting for those posts where I "incessantly" degrade Zenyatta, BTW.

Just like you then ...

Still waiting for where you rate Zenyatta among females all time and these supposed positive comments, appreciate and accolades you've had for Zenyatta in the past.

Seems you avoided answering your questions by asking me to look through your threads incessantly degrading Zenyatta.

I'm sure MANY here have also seen it that way.

I'm privy to debating tactics Somny ... Deflect having to answer questions presented to you by presenting deflecting questions of your own.

Still awaiting your answers ... Since you brought it up ... :)

[Horsebagger]

I think someone jumped on this already, but Haynesfield. And I don't believe that Zenyatta beating Switch is why she deserves HOTY, so I don't know where you got THAT from. Look, here's the deal. If the only thing that matters to you in the HOTY vote is numbers, then fine. But for me, racing will always have that intangible, and Zenyatta has it in spades. Also, as there is historical precedence -- and nothing in the rules that says the HOTY has to have achieved something specific. My point is that people are free to vote however they want, but that a cogent argument can be made for Zenyatta that exists outside of emotion.

The article posted (By Hermes, not the MD article) said it originally. I didn't make it up in order to have something to argue against.

And I totally acknowledge that a cogent argument can be made for Zenyatta as HOY. In fact, my original post questioned why anyone would be tying her defense as a legitimate HOY candidate to Switch when there are many other more sensible arguments that can be made.

Not sure we disagree here on the premise. Maybe I'm wrong.

[Bickersons]

The article posted (By Hermes, not the MD article) said it originally. I didn't make it up in order to have something to argue against.

And I totally acknowledge that a cogent argument can be made for Zenyatta as HOY. In fact, my original post questioned why anyone would be tying her defense as a legitimate HOY candidate to Switch when there are many other more sensible arguments that can be made.

Not sure we disagree here on the premise. Maybe I'm wrong.

That's what I get for reading every other word. A bad habit <g>.

[Horsebagger]

Blame won ... No disputing that. And just for the record, I haven't voted in the TBC HOTY polls because I really don't know who should get it. I'm glad I don't have an Eclipse vote.

I'll give you this much ... If to you, losing by 2 lengths is getting "hammered" and losing by 4 1/2 is getting "crushed" ... I'm OK with your terminology.

You just failed to mention that Haynesfield "crushed" Blame. Seemed a little one sided and biased to me that you would use very demeaning terminolgy for Switch's defeat and not do the same regarding Blame's.

But now that you've set the record straight and balanced it a bit, I'm cool with it. ;-)

The reason I 'failed to mention that H crushed Blame' was because it didn't have anything to do with my point. I was saying there were plenty of other reasons to point to as qualifications for Z as HOY. I wasn't talking about Blame at all.

[Izvestia]

Per my discussions with her connections last Thursday, they are ALL in favor of retiring her now. I think they're all paranoid of risking injury. With the exception of ONE person who wants to keep her running. That person is ... Ann Moss.

We'll see about the true power of a woman. I know she carries a lot of clout there, but I doubt enough to pull it off.

While I totally understand her wanting to keep living in the moment with the horse she loves SO dearly, I'd be scared to death of something happening to her. I'd love to see her keep running, but I'd love to know she's out of the game safe and sound even more.

While I want to pull for Ann and I know she seems like a wonderful person who loves Zenny dearly, I'm too paranoid about her getting hurt. So I'm pulling for the masses to overrule her ... Even though I'd greedily love to see her run again.

On a side note, it's SO adorable to see the way Ann adores Zenny and the things she says to her and calls her. I even read somewhere that she sometimes calls a groom on the phone and has them hold the phone to Zenny's ear so she can talk to her, tell her she loves her and all that jazz. That's wonderful. :)

See - I agree with Ann - I think if Zenyatta still runs, she can accomplish amazing things. My ONLY reservation is the bit about possible injury. As we all know, all the love and money in the world cannot fix a horse if the worst case happens.

That's what is so crappy about the decision, is that the only plus to retiring her is no more possible fear of injury. That to me, while a good reason is also the worst reason when looking at career possibilities and what she could do. If she were a tired horse like Cigar was at the end of his career, it would be different. But that is not the case.

[Circle Of Friends]

I hope they do retire her. Better to go out like she did, then say how Forego did.

Better to have one's last memory of her on the track be that incredible, valiant effort in this year's Classic than her being 4th or 5th in some F+M race because she's lost a few steps all of a sudden. It happened to Forego, it could happen to her.

[shortlead]

She is six (I think?) and that's three or four years beyond which most horses race. Much as I'd like to see her race another year, she really doesn't have to. And I'd like to see her retire healthy and sound, without any more racing risk.

[TheFlyingFilly]

I think I'd also rather see her retire...as much as I love watching her race. If she does race next year, then I hope for a short season with a lot of punch!

[Reposmoral]

I'm kinda hoping for one more race, so she can go out with a win.

It just seemed so weird and wrong for her to finish without a trip to the winner's circle.

But understand if they decide not to risk it... She didn't have to race as a 6 year old.

I'll miss her. I wont be the same when she's gone from the track.

[WarEmblemluvr]

See - I agree with Ann - I think if Zenyatta still runs, she can accomplish amazing things. My ONLY reservation is the bit about possible injury. As we all know, all the love and money in the world cannot fix a horse if the worst case happens.

That's what is so crappy about the decision, is that the only plus to retiring her is no more possible fear of injury. That to me, while a good reason is also the worst reason when looking at career possibilities and what she could do. If she were a tired horse like Cigar was at the end of his career, it would be different. But that is not the case.

While I agree an injury, etc., is less likely, there are still so many things that can happen while not racing. Look at poor St. Liam. Look at Vindication's mom, Strawberry Reason, that got kicked in the head by another mare and died and look at Vindication himself leaving us because of complications from colic. These are just a few examples...

I guess I understand both sides. I am sure they will do what Zenyatta herself is telling them...

[Uh-oh Bango]

Some of the letters to the editor have been persuasive. A friend of mine wrote this:

In 1978, Exceller won six Grade 1 races on dirt and turf, proving to be not only talented but also versatile. He defeated 1977 Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, which at that time was the decisive fall championship event. Seattle Slew was so game in defeat, however, that few who saw that race have yet forgotten it. The voters rewarded his courage and the horse who was obviously the best in that race with an Eclipse Award as top older male. They did not concede the award to the winner of the race. In fact, had Affirmed not won the Triple Crown that same year, there is little doubt Seattle Slew would have been named Horse of the Year.

Flash forward 32 years and I am baffled that everybody is ready to concede Horse of the Year to Blame without question. In a controversial decision last year, they weren't willing to concede it to Zenyatta when she won the Classic and made history. So why are they so willing to concede it to Blame this year?


Zenyatta was, unquestionably, the best horse in the Classic. She was gallant in a defeat of mere inches, and if she had gotten a hold of Blame's home track just a stride or two quicker, she would have won. Had she been confident on that track from the break, she might have beaten him by open lengths.


Zenyatta won more Grade 1 races, at more tracks, and on two different surfaces. In fact, she raced exclusively in Grade 1 company while Blame was winning a Grade 3 at Pimlico. Both Zenyatta and Blame had one loss in 2010, and there is no comparison between the Breeders' Cup Classic and Blame's four-length drubbing in the Jockey Club Gold Cup. Blame couldn't close off a slow early pace that day, something Zenyatta has had to face many times in her near-perfect career, without excuse.


Zenyatta's most recent foe before the ¬Classic, Switch, came back to finish second in the BC Filly and Mare Sprint, whereas Gold Cup winner Haynesfield and Whitney runner-up Quality Road finished in the last two positions in the Classic, beaten more than 20 lengths by Blame and Zenyatta.


If the voters wanted to downgrade Zenyatta last year for winning the Classic because she had an advantage on her home track, why wouldn't the same apply to Blame this year? Give the title to Zenyatta, for she deserves it more and anything else would be a slap in the face to the Queen, her connections, her legion of fans, and in fact to the sport itself.
Your friend said it better than I ever could. But would like to add---she spotted her competition weight, too. 129 lbs, twice this year, I believe.

[The Tin Man]

See - I agree with Ann - I think if Zenyatta still runs, she can accomplish amazing things. My ONLY reservation is the bit about possible injury. As we all know, all the love and money in the world cannot fix a horse if the worst case happens.

That's what is so crappy about the decision, is that the only plus to retiring her is no more possible fear of injury. That to me, while a good reason is also the worst reason when looking at career possibilities and what she could do. If she were a tired horse like Cigar was at the end of his career, it would be different. But that is not the case.

I agree Izvestia. I don't fear decline in her performance, especially with an abbreviated schedule. It's solely fear of injury that makes me want her to not run. But if she does by chance, I'll be front and center. Cheering her on and holding my breath that she gets home safely.

[Citation07]

I really, really want to see her run next year, but I recognize that it's a purely selfish want. She's my favorite racehorse and I love the opportunity to see her run.

I wouldn't be totally crushed at retirement, though, as much as I would love to see her next year. We all know the Mosses will do what's right for her. It's not like they've put one step wrong where Zenyatta's concerned, and she certainly has earned a long and happy retirement.

[Uh-oh Bango]

Like most people, I'm of two minds about retirement.

I think she is in very good shape to run, because of her age. Like those geldings who do so well with the right kind of trainer (Sheppard and a handful of others).

I believe Shirreffs when he says it's hay, oats, water, and Guinness.

I believe it when I look at her pedigree, the good bone, the old stayer genes, without the preponderance going back to Native Dancer. The big feet. The long gallops. The synthetic tracks. The usually-short burst of speed to overcome her victims. A great trainer. People who love her. Her temperament.

Yes, accidents happen, but they are far less likely to happen to this horse.

Plus, accidents happen in the paddock. Accidents happen in the breeding shed. Accidents happen to broodmares. Giving birth, kicks in the pasture, slipping in the grass, getting caught in the stall, even lightning!

I suppose the percentages are for the broodmares and against the racing mares. But I wouldn't worry too much if she raced three, maybe four races this year.

But she's not mine. I just want her to be happy and live to Genuine Risk's age.

[islandgirl45]

Like most people, I'm of two minds about retirement.

I think she is in very good shape to run, because of her age. Like those geldings who do so well with the right kind of trainer (Sheppard and a handful of others).

I believe Shirreffs when he says it's hay, oats, water, and Guinness.

I believe it when I look at her pedigree, the good bone, the old stayer genes, without the preponderance going back to Native Dancer. The big feet. The long gallops. The synthetic tracks. The usually-short burst of speed to overcome her victims. A great trainer. People who love her. Her temperament.

Yes, accidents happen, but they are far less likely to happen to this horse.

Plus, accidents happen in the paddock. Accidents happen in the breeding shed. Accidents happen to broodmares. Giving birth, kicks in the pasture, slipping in the grass, getting caught in the stall, even lightning!

I suppose the percentages are for the broodmares and against the racing mares. But I wouldn't worry too much if she raced three, maybe four races this year.

But she's not mine. I just want her to be happy and live to Genuine Risk's age.

This is exactly how I feel. I read something recently that talked about her breeding being old, old school, and how she looked like the old racehorses who were rangy, with good bone and large feet. As a point of interest, I believe Quality Road is over 17 hands tall, as is Zenyatta, but his feet are proportionately much smaller than hers.

I wish Z's connections would decide to let her race a couple times during the Santa Anita winter/spring meet. Maybe Frank Stronach could do something to lure Z to the meet and christen his new dirt track. Her presence certainly would increase the number of people attending. And who knows, since Blind Luck is headed to Santa Anita this winter, too, perhaps we could see a "clash of the deep closers!"

Also for purely selfish reasons, it would give me another chance to save enough for a plane ticket to fly out and see her race before she retires.:)

[Dusty]

This is exactly how I feel. I read something recently that talked about her breeding being old, old school, and how she looked like the old racehorses who were rangy, with good bone and large feet. As a point of interest, I believe Quality Road is over 17 hands tall, as is Zenyatta, but his feet are proportionately much smaller than hers.

I wish Z's connections would decide to let her race a couple times during the Santa Anita winter/spring meet. Maybe Frank Stronach could do something to lure Z to the meet and christen his new dirt track. Her presence certainly would increase the number of people attending. And who knows, since Blind Luck is headed to Santa Anita this winter, too, perhaps we could see a "clash of the deep closers!"

Also for purely selfish reasons, it would give me another chance to save enough for a plane ticket to fly out and see her race before she retires.:)

While I would LOVE to see her run - I DO NOT want her to run at Santa Anita until that track is proven safe - after the last debacle - I would never risk her there.

[islandgirl45]

While I would LOVE to see her run - I DO NOT want her to run at Santa Anita until that track is proven safe - after the last debacle - I would never risk her there.

The race or races she would be likely to enter, if she's still racing, probably wouldn't come up until at least February. By that time you'll have a good idea how Santa Anita's new track is working out.

[TheFlyingFilly]

This is exactly how I feel. I read something recently that talked about her breeding being old, old school, and how she looked like the old racehorses who were rangy, with good bone and large feet. As a point of interest, I believe Quality Road is over 17 hands tall, as is Zenyatta, but his feet are proportionately much smaller than hers.

I wish Z's connections would decide to let her race a couple times during the Santa Anita winter/spring meet. Maybe Frank Stronach could do something to lure Z to the meet and christen his new dirt track. Her presence certainly would increase the number of people attending. And who knows, since Blind Luck is headed to Santa Anita this winter, too, perhaps we could see a "clash of the deep closers!"

Also for purely selfish reasons, it would give me another chance to save enough for a plane ticket to fly out and see her race before she retires.:)

Really? I saw QR in person at the paddock for the Classic and he definitely didn't look taller than Zenyatta, or even close. I'd guess he is 16.2 or 16.1.

[islandgirl45]

Really? I saw QR in person at the paddock for the Classic and he definitely didn't look taller than Zenyatta, or even close. I'd guess he is 16.2 or 16.1.

I looked on Lane's End and they didn't have a stat up for him yet. I found the "over 17 hands" quote online from an article earlier this year. He could be 17 hands and still be shorter than Z, who is 17.2.

[TheFlyingFilly]

I looked on Lane's End and they didn't have a stat up for him yet. I found the "over 17 hands" quote online from an article earlier this year. He could be 17 hands and still be shorter than Z, who is 17.2.

True nuff!

[susanwarner]

Go to Zenyatta.com to sign a petition for Z to win HOY

[GinTalking]

But she's not mine. I just want her to be happy and live to Genuine Risk's age.

Not arguing this point, because it's a great thought, but Genuine Risk didn't produce every year, or even every other year, for more than a decade. Surely that had to have helped her reach the ripe old age of 32 (or whatever it was).

[Railbird]

Per Steve Haskin (on Facebook), the Mosses will issue an official press release today regarding Zenyatta's future.

[djnorth]

Railbird,

Thanks for the heads-up.

[Noble]

“I still say Zenyatta is the best horse I’ve ever seen in person. I hope Lucky is as good as her some day.” - Mike Pegram

“When I went back to California in the fall of 2009, I went to see John and he was grazing Zenyatta. When you get inside a horse’s space, you can feel their energy, and sometimes, you can’t believe what you’re feeling. I’ve been around a lot of great horses, so it’s not like I go ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ because they’re good horses. But feeling her energy was a genuine sensation that I had only felt when I was around Seattle Slew at the farm. It’s hard to describe, but it’s similar to the feeling you get walking into Churchill Downs on Derby Day. I just know with Zenyatta and Slew I’ve never felt anything like that in my life…never. She had become this amazing animal, and the energy she gave out was unbelievable.” - Richard Migliore


For anyone who considers themselves a skeptic for any racehorse, my only suggestion to you is to go out and meet these horses on a personal level. Your view can completely change on them. Watching horses only on TV/YouTube, arguing on the net, or burying yourself in the Daily Racing Form won't get you that far. And you will never appreciate the risk these horses take performing for us out there. When Mike Pegram thinks she is the greatest horse he ever saw using his own two eyes, my eyes agrees with him too. We don't need glasses here. I've never seen Trevor so biased for any horse, and even he can't help it. And we know how Vic Stauffer feels about her. Appeal to track announcers, owners, trainers, jockeys, Hollywood celebrities, pretty pony posters, handicappers, casual & hardcore race fans alike, etc.

I plan to see Zenyatta for the 8th time in person a day after my bday and I still haven't grew tired seeing her live even if it happens to be only for a few minutes again. I'm pretty sure Bob Baffert will be there too. I've seen her race 5x in person and will have a third time for a retirement ceremony. And I'm not really meeting her personally where I can feed her carrots and kiss her on the nose like many of you lucky Easterners will experience when you visit her in Lane's End. I just find her charisma enduring and irresistible to take pictures of her again. All worth it for me as a pure horse lover. Is Zenyatta a pop sensation? Yes. And I know it can be overkill to some, but it also has been fun. Like a song on the radio. You may not like it now because it is overplayed, but over time, you may start to like it once they rarely play it anymore or when nostalgia finally kicks in.

Now that The Queen is gone, the sport will go through a "hangover period." Maybe it will be fun for a little bit in the spring, but only in spurts. Cheap, brief thrills before these colts are off to stud so soon. A dime a dozen horses like Quality Road, Blame, Eskendereya, Concord Point, and so on. You will sense the void once she is gone and we are back to the norm of seeing premature retirements, unforeseen injuries, flash in a pans, inconsistency, bland personas, one-season wonders, heartbreak, etc. Life before Zenyatta wasn't pretty with the famous breakdowns from Barbaro and Eight Belles. The biggest and brightest star of the sport was a true show stopper. Almost two weeks has passed since her first defeat, and people still can't stop talking and thinking about her. I know there will be faster horses than her and there will be others who will accomplish and beat more males than her. But for a thoroughbred, Zenyatta had it ALL. No glaring weaknesses as a horse. Looks, charisma, talent, resume, breeding, and an easy to pronounce name.

I see Zenyatta as a bookmark of the 2000's similar to how we remember certain horses for different decades. The way Baby Boomers instantly think of horses like Secretariat when it comes to 1970's racing and how he reignited the sport. Zenyatta is arguably the greatest American horse since Cigar and most popular since Secretariat. She is our time capsule in this era. She represents a snapshot of our lives in these moments. One of racing's first true superstar for Generation Y - the YouTube generation. Years from now, we will sit back to reminisce about her and just smile thinking about all the good times.

MY FAVORITE PICTURE OF HER
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y213/Sweetepnoy2/98f45d33.jpg

[islandgirl45]

“I still say Zenyatta is the best horse I’ve ever seen in person. I hope Lucky is as good as her some day.” - Mike Pegram

“When I went back to California in the fall of 2009, I went to see John and he was grazing Zenyatta. When you get inside a horse’s space, you can feel their energy, and sometimes, you can’t believe what you’re feeling. I’ve been around a lot of great horses, so it’s not like I go ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ because they’re good horses. But feeling her energy was a genuine sensation that I had only felt when I was around Seattle Slew at the farm. It’s hard to describe, but it’s similar to the feeling you get walking into Churchill Downs on Derby Day. I just know with Zenyatta and Slew I’ve never felt anything like that in my life…never. She had become this amazing animal, and the energy she gave out was unbelievable.” - Richard Migliore


For anyone who considers themselves a skeptic for any racehorse, my only suggestion to you is to go out and meet these horses on a personal level. Your view can completely change on them. Watching horses only on TV/YouTube, arguing on the net, or burying yourself in the Daily Racing Form won't get you that far. And you will never appreciate the risk these horses take performing for us out there. When Mike Pegram thinks she is the greatest horse he ever saw using his own two eyes, my eyes agrees with him too. We don't need glasses here. I've never seen Trevor so biased for any horse, and even he can't help it. And we know how Vic Stauffer feels about her. Appeal to track announcers, owners, trainers, jockeys, Hollywood celebrities, pretty pony posters, handicappers, casual & hardcore race fans alike, etc.

I plan to see Zenyatta for the 8th time in person a day after my bday and I still haven't grew tired seeing her live even if it happens to be only for a few minutes again. I'm pretty sure Bob Baffert will be there too. I've seen her race 5x in person and will have a third time for a retirement ceremony. And I'm not really meeting her personally where I can feed her carrots and kiss her on the nose like many of you lucky Easterners will experience when you visit her in Lane's End. I just find her charisma enduring and irresistible to take pictures of her again. All worth it for me as a pure horse lover. Is Zenyatta a pop sensation? Yes. And I know it can be overkill to some, but it also has been fun. Like a song on the radio. You may not like it now because it is overplayed, but over time, you may start to like it once they rarely play it anymore or when nostalgia finally kicks in.

Now that The Queen is gone, the sport will go through a "hangover period." Maybe it will be fun for a little bit in the spring, but only in spurts. Cheap, brief thrills before these colts are off to stud so soon. A dime a dozen horses like Quality Road, Blame, Eskendereya, Concord Point, and so on. You will sense the void once she is gone and we are back to the norm of seeing premature retirements, unforeseen injuries, flash in a pans, inconsistency, bland personas, one-season wonders, heartbreak, etc. Life before Zenyatta wasn't pretty with the famous breakdowns from Barbaro and Eight Belles. The biggest and brightest star of the sport was a true show stopper. Almost two weeks has passed since her first defeat, and people still can't stop talking and thinking about her. I know there will be faster horses than her and there will be others who will accomplish and beat more males than her. But for a thoroughbred, Zenyatta had it ALL. No glaring weaknesses as a horse. Looks, charisma, talent, resume, breeding, and an easy to pronounce name.

I see Zenyatta as a bookmark of the 2000's similar to how we remember certain horses for different decades. The way Baby Boomers instantly think of horses like Secretariat when it comes to 1970's racing and how he reignited the sport. Zenyatta is arguably the greatest American horse since Cigar and most popular since Secretariat. She is our time capsule in this era. She represents a snapshot of our lives in these moments. One of racing's first true superstar for Generation Y - the YouTube generation. Years from now, we will sit back to reminisce about her and just smile thinking about all the good times.

MY FAVORITE PICTURE OF HER
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y213/Sweetepnoy2/98f45d33.jpg

That's a nice photo Noble, what race is that from?

[The Tin Man]

Noble ... If you love Zenny SO much you need to get your butt over to her barn and meet her one on one. I can't believe you would actually let this opportunity pass. Time is running out and for you not to see and touch the horse of your lifetime one on one makes no sense. Get your butt over there. You WON'T regret it.

Lecture done ... It's your call. :evil:

[TheFlyingFilly]

Well said Noble...you have a way with words.

[BARNFOUR]

http://www.drf.com/news/zenyatta-gets-nice-easy-walk-stable

Zenyatta gets a nice, easy walk at stable
by Stave Andersen

Zenyatta had a quiet day at trainer John Shirreffs’s stable on Thursday, a day after it was announced that she has been retired and will be relocated to Lane’s End Farm near Versailles, Ky., in December.

Zenyatta was walked twice Thursday morning and was scheduled to have another walking session in the afternoon.

A two-time champion, she retires with 19 wins in 20 starts, with her only loss a second to Blame in the BC Classic on Nov. 6.

[PJMIII]

Zenyatta's team prepares to say goodbye

Two-time champion ZENYATTA grazed outside Barn 55 South with groom Mario Espinoza on a sunny Thursday morning at Hollywood Park as trainer John Shirreffs came to grips with the reality that the superstar mare had been officially retired.

http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/editorial/article.cgi?id=20422

[PJMIII]

Zenyatta Appreciation Day at Hollywood Dec. 5

Before Zenyatta leaves for a new stage of her life as a broodmare at Lane’s End Farm in Kentucky, Hollywood Park will stage an appreciation day for the brilliant mare Dec. 5.

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/59975/zenyatta-appreciation-day-at-hollywood-dec-5

[Uh-oh Bango]

Not arguing this point, because it's a great thought, but Genuine Risk didn't produce every year, or even every other year, for more than a decade. Surely that had to have helped her reach the ripe old age of 32 (or whatever it was).

Yup, Gin - one reason I didn't mention her producing record!

[islandgirl45]

A 2011 Zenyatta calendar! Who knew that was going to happen?:photo:

http://coadyphotography.com/Store/Product/2011%20Zenyatta%20Calendar.aspx

Here's are a couple screenshots of the front and back...

436

437

[secretalibi]

A 2011 Zenyatta calendar! Who knew that was going to happen?:photo:

http://coadyphotography.com/Store/Product/2011%20Zenyatta%20Calendar.aspx

Here's are a couple screenshots of the front and back...

436

437
Thanks for posting the link for this!

[Horse's Rear]

A 2011 Zenyatta calendar! Who knew that was going to happen?:photo:

http://coadyphotography.com/Store/Product/2011%20Zenyatta%20Calendar.aspx

Here's are a couple screenshots of the front and back...

436

437

That's the problem with these people: they're just not patient enough.

They should have waited until 2012; that would be the right year for a Zenyatta calendar. Do the math:

In her career, Zenyatta WON 17 Graded Stakes. So that makes 17 Graded Stakes Winner's Circle Photos to sprinkle throughout the year, each one getting its own date.

Zenyatta made 20 career starts: 1 at 6.5f; 11 at 8.5f; 6 at 9f; and 2 at 20f. That means that she raced a grand total of 348 sixteenths of a mile.

So beginning on January first, you follow her racing career one-sixteenth of a mile at a time, interspersing the winner's circle photograph in the date following each graded stakes victory--a daily calendar that is exactly 365 days long.

Which is why 2012 is the right year for it; since it's leap year, she would come up just short at the wire.

[Man o' Taz]

Close, but no cigar By Nick Holding
Staff Writer
http://www.coyotechronicle.com/mobile/sports/close-but-no-cigar-1.2413277
Published: Sunday, November 21, 2010
Updated: Sunday, November 21, 2010

http://www.coyotechronicle.com/polopoly_fs/1.2413457%21/image/2697452654.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_240/2697452654.jpg (javascript:Site.openWin('/polopoly_fs/1.2413457!/image/2697452654.jpg',%20655,%20689)) Wikimedia Commons




Perfection is something that is rarely attained in sports, but the mare Zenyatta, who is the leading Horse of the Year candidate had just that chance as she sat in the starting gate at Churchill Downs Saturday Nov. 6 with a record of 19-0.



As she began the race she did so in familiar fashion at the Breeders Cup Classic, starting last and holding her position in the back of the pack.



As the horses came around the final turn, Zenyatta began to make her move and the 70,000 fans at Churchill Downs erupted as she mowed down and roared past the crowded field.



Moving from last to second, the race closed in on its final moments with Blame holding the lead while Zenyatta made her furious charge.



In the end, Zenyatta came up just short of her goal, losing to Blame by a head-length in a photo finish.



"She ran an excellent race and just came up a little short," said John Shirreffs,

Zenyatta's trainer speaking after the race to reporters. "She ran her heart out."

Hall of fame Jockey Mike Smith, who appeared to hold back and started the mare's charge too late in the race took the responsibly for the loss.



"It hurts more than I can explain," said Smith while speaking to reporters after the race as he was holding back tears. "Just because it was my fault. She should have won, and it hurts."



Zenyatta sitting with a record of 19-0 entered the race and gained the respect of her opponents, jockeys and trainers alike.



"It's mixed emotions because she's been a wonderful ambassador of the game," Blame's jockey Garrett Gomez said of Zenyatta while speaking to the press after his horse beat the favorite. "People that didn't know anything about horse racing became fans because of her."



He continued, "She's an amazing race horse, to plainly put it. She's awesome. I wish she would have went 20 for 20 at the expense of someone else and not us. I'm very proud to say we beat her."



The thrilling result of the race opens a debate similar to one that raged last year after Zenyatta defeated the field made up of all male horses at the 2009 Breeders Cup Classic.



In 2009 Rachel Alexandra beat out Zenyatta to take the Eclipse Horse of the Year Award.



A similar debate will rage this year as Zenyatta now sits in the same position as Rachel did last year.



Going into the race, Zenyatta was a clear favorite. However Blame was on the radar as a possible threat to her perfection bid.



The loss however did not cause Zenyatta to lose any of her luster.



"In defeat, Zenyatta didn't lose anything," said Blame's trainer Al Stall while speaking to reporters after the Cup Classic.



"I don't think you'll find anybody criticizing anything she's ever done, much less today. It was just two very good horses and everybody talked about it coming down to these two for a long time. It played out that way."



In the history of horse racing very few have been considered to be the best of all time.

Secretariat who is widely considered the greatest of all time had 16 wins (and lost five times) in all and in 1973 won the Triple Crown. Man o' War also ranks among the best with 20 wins in 21 races.



Seabiscuit, Seattle Slew, and Spectacular Bid are also thought to be in that group, some of the greatest ever. Now Zenyatta has joined the ranks of those great horses by dominating her competition despite the loss in this year's Breeders Cup Classic.



She has the swagger of a true champion.



Before every race it seems that she poses for the camera (she lives in Hollywood after all), and it appears that she dances before each and every race.



One almost gets the feeling that Zenyatta understands and knows that she's the reason for the crowds. That people come to see her, and she certainly has put on a great show throughout her career.



Only time will tell as to how history will remember Zenyatta, and where she ranks among the best in Thoroughbred racing history.



One thing is clear however, we as fans have been witness to one of the greatest mares who has ever raced.

[GinTalking]

I'm pretty sure a lot of people could put together a pretty nice calendar in honor of Zenyatta with photos from many or all of her races.

Jeff's is only at Oaklawn though because he's the track photographer there, but that'll be enough for Z fans, I'm sure.

Heck, you can overpay for a Zenyatta hat on ebay if you want that. They are available through the BC site. Maybe it's just exciting to pay more ... does it feel like you are snatching it away from someone else if you pay up on ebay.

A strange phenomenon. Anyone understand it?

[Dusty]

I'm pretty sure a lot of people could put together a pretty nice calendar in honor of Zenyatta with photos from many or all of her races.

Jeff's is only at Oaklawn though because he's the track photographer there, but that'll be enough for Z fans, I'm sure.

Heck, you can overpay for a Zenyatta hat on ebay if you want that. They are available through the BC site. Maybe it's just exciting to pay more ... does it feel like you are snatching it away from someone else if you pay up on ebay.

A strange phenomenon. Anyone understand it?


I would think the folks bidding on these are not aware they can buy anywhere else. While we know better many do not - I can't imagine paying more if I could get it direct..

[GinTalking]

I would think the folks bidding on these are not aware they can buy anywhere else. While we know better many do not - I can't imagine paying more if I could get it direct..

Just to be clear, because I may be misunderstanding your "on these", I think the Coady calendar isn't available elsewhere ... only that the hat is. ;-)

[Thoroughbred Info]

There will be a Zenyatta trivia contest on the Thoroughbred Info Facebook page today (Saturday, November 27). Five questions, with each winner receiving a pair of free Clubhouse Passes to Zenyatta Appreciation Day at Hollywood Park on Sunday, December 5.

For details, go to www.thoroughbredinfo.com (http://www.thoroughbredinfo.com).

Good luck!

[Horse's Rear]

Zenyatta's exercise routine "expanded":

http://drf.com/news/zenyatta-still-eager