Zenyatta News

[Spahny]

Zenyatta's exercise routine "expanded":

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

I was there to witness the 2 mile gallop on Wednesday and posted a couple of photos on page 6 of the Visiting Zenyatta At HP thread.

It was a very strong gallop. I was surprised they took her out since she had been out to gallop on Tuesday.

There's no doubt she is retired and absolutely no doubt that she could still race and win.

[moonwalker]

From NTRA website:

http://www.ntra.com/content/display/news/NDY5ODU=



Zenyatta's mailbox still filling up

Steve Andersen, Daily Racing Form
Posted: Thursday, November 25, 2010

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - Zenyatta was jogged and galloped on the Hollywood Park training track on Thursday, and there won’t be too many more days like that for the 6-year-old mare.

Trainer John Shirreffs said on Thursday that Zenyatta will leave for Lane’s End Farm in Kentucky on Dec. 6, a day after she will be honored at Hollywood Park. A winner of 19 of 20 starts for owners Jerry and Ann Moss, Zenyatta will be paraded in a ceremony on Dec. 5 that is expected to draw a large crowd to Hollywood Park.

Zenyatta won her first 19 races and was second to Blame in the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Churchill Downs on Nov. 6. Despite the loss, the fan adoration continues. The Shirreffs stable had fan mail from 11 states and Nova Scotia on Wednesday.

One such letter was addressed to Zenyatta Moss.


I sent them a thank you card from Colorado, so maybe that's one of the 11 states.

Mary MMM

[PJMIII]

From NTRA website:

http://www.ntra.com/content/display/news/NDY5ODU=

I sent them a thank you card from Colorado, so maybe that's one of the 11 states.

Mary MMM
She is the Queen.:)

[janpal]

She shouldn't have lost any fans as a result of her performance in the Classic-- in fact, she should have gained many more! Hope the diva enjoys retirement -- she has certainly earned it.

[MightyMitch]

She shouldn't have lost any fans as a result of her performance in the Classic-- in fact, she should have gained many more! Hope the diva enjoys retirement -- she has certainly earned it.

Agreed! She has so many many many fans. When I went to visit her, Friday and Saturday, there were lots of people coming to see her. People love her. And it's amazing how she brings people together and builds a sense of community and friendship based on peoples' admiration for her.

[janpal]

That's what the great horses can do! Especially when they're people friendly -- and she is definitely friendly as well as very smart!

[daisy]

Is she now a household name? Al Michaels compared some NFL personality (sorry, didn't catch who) to her in tonight's Sunday Night Football game.

[Miss Woodford]

Is she now a household name? Al Michaels compared some NFL personality (sorry, didn't catch who) to her in tonight's Sunday Night Football game.
Al Michaels is OLD. Really really old. 99.9% of the viewing audience had no idea what he was talking about.

[Codysmom55]

Is she now a household name? Al Michaels compared some NFL personality (sorry, didn't catch who) to her in tonight's Sunday Night Football game.

You heard that, too? He was referring, I believe, to the late start the SD Chargers got off to, but were picking up momentum. He surely said the Chargers (I think that's right) were like the way Zenyatta runs. I thought it was pretty cool.

[daisy]

Al Michaels isn't old. I grew up watching him to TC coverage. And I'm 26. Unless 26 is old.

If you missed it the first time, they just gave her another shout-out on the football game.

[Codysmom55]

Al Michaels isn't old. I grew up watching him to TC coverage. And I'm 26. Unless 26 is old.

If you missed it the first time, they just gave her another shout-out on the football game.

Yes, he did. :)

[moonwalker]

Al Michaels is OLD. Really really old. 99.9% of the viewing audience had no idea what he was talking about.

If he'd said the football team came from behind like Silky Sullivan, I could understand a lot of the viewers not knowing what he was talking about. But Zenyatta is a contemporary example. Al Michaels' age is immaterial.

Mary MMM

[Horse's Rear]

Al Michaels isn't old. I grew up watching him to TC coverage. And I'm 26. Unless 26 is old.

I'm not sure how your age helps us determine Al Michaels's age. Unless it's to make us aware that some of us were listening to his broadcasts before you were born. Now that I think of it, some of us may have stopped listening to him before you were born.

[daisy]

He wasn't old when I watched him as a kid. Apparently I am still of the mentality that if it was around when I was a kid, it cannot yet be old.

[PJMIII]

Zenyatta's farewell ceremony set for December 5

Two-time champion and Horse of the Year candidate ZENYATTA will make her final public appearance in California during a special celebration on December 5 at Hollywood Park.

http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/editorial/article.cgi?id=20539

[Miss Woodford]

Al Michaels isn't old. I grew up watching him to TC coverage. And I'm 26. Unless 26 is old.

If you missed it the first time, they just gave her another shout-out on the football game.
He's 66 and has been working as a TV broadcaster since the 70s. Also, he hosted the Derby/Preakness/Belmont coverage from 1986-2000.

[Dusty]

Al Michaels is OLD. Really really old. 99.9% of the viewing audience had no idea what he was talking about.
He may be old (as am I) but when I got to work today my employees were all talking about the game the commentators mentioning her! HOW COOL IS THAT!

[Spun]

It looks like Zenyatta will be visiting Keeneland upon her arrival in KY next week!



http://www.keeneland.com/Lists/News/dispform.aspx?ID=6613

[Rick1323]

Now that the dust is beginning to settle on Zenyatta's career, it seems most "experts" put her somewhere in the top 30 of all time. Forget the filly/mare standings. All horses, of all time. Not that we needed confirmation that we were watching something very, very special.

The added bonus is the personality of a show horse and the accessibility of Paris Hilton. We were so damned lucky.

[JT Dancer]

We were so damned lucky.

Amen:)

[janpal]

Such a good point! Where it's interesting to debate who should be horse of the year, take pictures to reflect on,etc., nothing matches the moments we witnessed live when she raced. As with anything that special, it's important to enjoy the moment, realize what you're experiencing, and savor it! Those moments and horses like this one don't come along too often.

[Codysmom55]

Now that the dust is beginning to settle on Zenyatta's career, it seems most "experts" put her somewhere in the top 30 of all time. Forget the filly/mare standings. All horses, of all time. Not that we needed confirmation that we were watching something very, very special.

The added bonus is the personality of a show horse and the accessibility of Paris Hilton. We were so damned lucky.

Indeed, Rick.

[Spahny]

The walkover.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2dXKaoE3Qw

[Commentator]

You heard that, too? He was referring, I believe, to the late start the SD Chargers got off to, but were picking up momentum. He surely said the Chargers (I think that's right) were like the way Zenyatta runs. I thought it was pretty cool.
I've seen some user comments on ESPN referring to the Chargers as Zenyatta. Very neat.

[janpal]

ESPN has long been a reporter of horse racing news -- it would be a good move on their part and their employees part to consciously remind the public of racing's stars, movies, etc. This can only help develop interest in this sport we love!

[Man o' Taz]

Now that the dust is beginning to settle on Zenyatta's career, it seems most "experts" put her somewhere in the top 30 of all time. Forget the filly/mare standings. All horses, of all time. Not that we needed confirmation that we were watching something very, very special.

The added bonus is the personality of a show horse and the accessibility of Paris Hilton. We were so damned lucky.

Indeed. That is actually exactly where I have been placing her -- between 25 and 35 -- better than Ruffian...but 30 is where I settled...though I thought a case could be made for 26 to 34...:becky:

Do you have a link to these "experts" Rick so I could read a little more on the subject?

[PJMIII]

It looks like Zenyatta will be visiting Keeneland upon her arrival in KY next week!



http://www.keeneland.com/Lists/News/dispform.aspx?ID=6613
That should be great. You Ky folks are sure lucky to get another chance to see her.

[islandgirl45]

For those who are interested, DRF.com has a special segment on Zenyatta with articles and photos by Barbara Livingston, Jay Hovdey, a Q & A with Mike Smith, and a tribute.

Zenyatta: A legend takes her final bow
http://www.drf.com/news/zenyatta-legend-takes-her-final-bow

[Citation07]

I would really suggest reading the Barbara Livingston piece. Wonderful.

[Spahny]

I would really suggest reading the Barbara Livingston piece. Wonderful.

Yep. Barbara's a Zeetard.

[Rick1323]

Barbara's words are as powerful as her pictures. She is as much a gift to horse racing as Zenyatta.

[Spahny]

Barbara's words are as powerful as her pictures. She is as much a gift to horse racing as Zenyatta.

Inspiration is an amazing power source. But it's not very often that it's right there in front of you, so close that you can breathe into her nostrils.

[Rick1323]

Inspiration is an amazing power source. But it's not very often that it's right there in front of you, so close that you can breathe into her nostrils.

That is part of why I'm so impressed. People like yourself who have been around for a while still walk away in a daze. Barbara has seen and photographed some great ones and seems totally in love with Zenyatta. The Queen deserves her subjects as much as her subjects deserve a real Queen.

[islandgirl45]

Yep. Barbara's a Zeetard.

What's interesting is she said she didn't get what she calls "the whole picture" until she spent a couple days around Z watching her interact with people.

[Codysmom55]

Inspiration is an amazing power source. But it's not very often that it's right there in front of you, so close that you can breathe into her nostrils.

Eloquently written, Spahny.

[PJMIII]

Zenyatta enjoys her final days in California

Trainer John Shirreffs sat calmly in his stable office in Barn 55 South during a pleasant sunny Thursday morning before entering Zardana (Brz) (Crimson Tide) in defense of her crown in Sunday's $150,000 Bayakoa H. (G2) and hosting more than 50 guests admiring and photographing ZENYATTA before her farewell ceremony here, also on Sunday.

http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/editorial/article.cgi?id=20565

[BornToWin]

In case someone hasn't read Barbara Livingston's "Zenyatta, a reminder to celebrate life", in DRF here is the link. http://www.drf.com/blogs/zenyatta-reminder-celebrate-life

It is a well written tribute from a horseperson who is not naive or sentimental. One of the best tributes to Zenyatta and her Team.

She may not be sentimental but she sure had me near tears when she wrote about the sick woman in the wheelchair and the mare held her head next to the woman's and together they just breathed.

The story is a keepsake.

[Secretariat Forever]

Must see the video posted up on her FB..Carrot Time. oh my! lol

http://www.facebook.com/ZenyattaOfficial

[moonwalker]

For anyone planning to go see Zenyatta at Keeneland on Monday... right now the high temperature forecast for Lexington is 25 degrees. Bundle up! :)

Mary MMM

[DesertHeat]

The LA Dodgers Facebook page has an image of her billboard and a note to everyone to go see her on Sunday. Even though a lot of the comments are about the epic court battle that is going on and some crude things about the horse, it's nice that it's out there and that some people are chiming in with nice memories.

[Spahny]

That is part of why I'm so impressed. People like yourself who have been around for a while still walk away in a daze.

She got to Allen Jerkins too.

From the latest Steve Haskin blog.

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2010/12/03/the-journey-ends.aspx

[StarGirl11]

Does anyone know what time the sixth race will approximately go off? I am going to be playing steal the tv and see if I can watch the farewell ceremony (I'm assuming TVG will be broadcasting it).

[Dave in TJMex]

Must see the video posted up on her FB..Carrot Time. oh my! lol

http://www.facebook.com/ZenyattaOfficial

You are not kidding!

What an incredible video!

What an incredible horse! :)

[Ezariah]

Around 2:50ish, but I'd start watching around 2:30 so you don't miss her in the paddock.


Does anyone know what time the sixth race will approximately go off? I am going to be playing steal the tv and see if I can watch the farewell ceremony (I'm assuming TVG will be broadcasting it).

[EquineAnne]

Around 2:50ish, but I'd start watching around 2:30 so you don't miss her in the paddock.

2:30 PST?

[Secretariat Forever]

She got to Allen Jerkins too.



that's a compliment.

[Secretariat Forever]

You are not kidding!

What an incredible video!

What an incredible horse! :)

I was laughing so hard. She just stood there looking out at the scenery with a bunch of carrots dangling from her mouth, and then when she moved her head and the carrots swung with her...so funny!

[Rick1323]

How can you not love all of this?

[auburndee1]

Will the Farewell Ceremony be on-line anywhere, or should I head to the OTB?

Thanks.

[StarGirl11]

Edit: never mind. Thought the ceremony was today for some reason.

[islandgirl45]

Will anyone besides TVG be carrying the ceremony? I don't get that channel, although I have HRTV Live.

[GinTalking]

Wow ... there are no words ...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ZENYATTA-HORSE-RACING-STABLE-HOOF-PRINT-DIRT-BARN-55-/320626561997?pt=US_Solo_Sports_Fan_Shop&hash=item4aa6d513cd

[Liztannica]

Wow ... there are no words ...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ZENYATTA-HORSE-RACING-STABLE-HOOF-PRINT-DIRT-BARN-55-/320626561997?pt=US_Solo_Sports_Fan_Shop&hash=item4aa6d513cd

I am guessing they just collected the dirt and did not preserve the print? a bit over the top

[Allspice]

^ It would only surprise me if there were bids on it.

[Dave in TJMex]

Wow ... there are no words ...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ZENYATTA-HORSE-RACING-STABLE-HOOF-PRINT-DIRT-BARN-55-/320626561997?pt=US_Solo_Sports_Fan_Shop&hash=item4aa6d513cd

When another TRCer and I were at the barn on Wednesday, we were thinking --- jokingly --- that it would be a good idea to scoop up some Zenyatta poop, bronze it, and put it on Ebay as well!

My friend, who shall remain nameless, vetoed the idea, saying he/she would put it on the mantle of his/her fireplace at home instead! :)

[GreenasGrass]

When another TRCer and I were at the barn on Wednesday, we were thinking --- jokingly --- that it would be a good idea to scoop up some Zenyatta poop, bronze it, and put it on Ebay as well!

My friend, who shall remain nameless, vetoed the idea, saying he/she would put it on the mantle of his/her fireplace at home instead! :)
Someone asked for the non bronzed stuff last year and got it when the mare obliged.

[breezing]

hee hee, i remember when she pooped in the winners circle :pound:

i swung by her barn yesterday for a few moments to see her.........she really is the most patient horse i've ever seen. i'm glad i sipped the kool aid :)

[firehorse]

Will anyone besides TVG be carrying the ceremony? I don't get that channel, although I have HRTV Live.

I think you can watch the live feed on calracing.com if you can't get it anywhere else

[Horse's Rear]

Wow ... there are no words ...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ZENYATTA-HORSE-RACING-STABLE-HOOF-PRINT-DIRT-BARN-55-/320626561997?pt=US_Solo_Sports_Fan_Shop&hash=item4aa6d513cd

If you blow that image up to 250% and rotate it counterclockwise 38 degrees, you can clearly see the Virgin Mary.

[Rick1323]

If you blow that image up to 250% and rotate it counterclockwise 38 degrees, you can clearly see the Virgin Mary.

Now that is LOL funny.....

[flytothestars]

any clue what eastern time Zenyatta will be shown on htrv/tvg?

[EquineAnne]

any clue what eastern time Zenyatta will be shown on htrv/tvg?

Twin Spires shows the 6th race @ 5:53pm EST. That's 2:53 PST, 4:53 CST. I'm taping HRTV & TVG because isn't HP generally broadcast at TVG? I'm confused as to why HRTV would carry it and not TVG. I'm playing it safe and taping both.

[StarGirl11]

Watching the stream live on calracing (thank god for Borders WiFi!) apparently the paddock is so packed that they are telling people to not bother go over to the paddock and stay at the track.

Edit: All right I want to strangle calracing right now. Its buffering every other minute!

[PONYRCR]

Feeling incredibly sad watching her walk off the track for the last time.

[Dave in TJMex]

Watching the stream live on calracing (thank god for Borders WiFi!) apparently the paddock is so packed that they are telling people to not bother go over to the paddock and stay at the track.

Edit: All right I want to strangle calracing right now. Its buffering every other minute!

You need a newer computer with a better processor or a faster internet connection. Your Wifi connection probably was slow. I watched it on Calracing and it was fine, as it has been since I got a newer computer six months ago.

[Dave in TJMex]

Feeling incredibly sad watching her walk off the track for the last time.

I am with you, as I am sure lots of TBCers are. How bittersweet this day is. :>(

Should we slit our wrists or just go get really drunk?

But at least she was retired before she ever got hurt, I keep reminding myself.

[Lava Man Fan]

You need a newer computer with a better processor or a faster internet connection. Your Wifi connection probably was slow. I watched it on Calracing and it was fine, as it has been since I got a newer computer six months ago.

Actually I've had the same problems at Borders with live video, and I had a new computer at the time.

[BARNFOUR]

Did TVZ do a good job?

[Dave in TJMex]

Actually I've had the same problems at Borders with live video, and I had a new computer at the time.

The wifi connection is slower than a dedicated line, especially if a bunch of people are logged on at Borders.

[Spahny]

Did TVZ do a good job?

Hard to talk... Still weeping...

Trying....

Nick Hines. Ken Rudolph... Country western song... MC was Kurt Hoover again... Do the math.

Stupid question.

[dustino140]

I thought it was a nice ceremony. Except for the lady singing. That was pathetic.

[Bozo]

How will Mario feel tomorrow after he says goodbye at Lanes End. Feel bad for him. Gonna be a long flight back to Cali.

[JT Dancer]

Nick Hines. Ken Rudolph... Country western song... MC was Kurt Hoover again... Do the math.

Ken Rudolph actually said Mike Smith was the only man "who could handle Zenyatta's jelly." What kind of comment is that; I mean, really?

[firehorse]

Ken Rudolph actually said Mike Smith was the only man "who could handle Zenyatta's jelly." What kind of comment is that; I mean, really?

He always says that, he's the Jay Z to her Beyonce (booytlicious) - , yeah kinda funny, but Z does have a big booty

[Dave in TJMex]

How will Mario feel tomorrow after he says goodbye at Lanes End. Feel bad for him. Gonna be a long flight back to Cali.

Mario Espinoza will be staying at Lane's End a couple of days to help Z get adjusted and tell the staff there about her.

And THEN it sure will be long flight back for him to California, I agree!

But I guess that people who work at the race track with horses every day -- trainers, riders, grooms, etc. --- have learned long ago how to enjoy horses when they are with you and to move forward when they are gone. Shirreffs told a reporter today that the key was to enjoy the horses that are in the barn with you right now.

[islandgirl45]

How will Mario feel tomorrow after he says goodbye at Lanes End. Feel bad for him. Gonna be a long flight back to Cali.

I read somewhere, not sure where, that Mario was staying for a couple days to tell the Lane's End folks about Z's idiosyncrasies. There also was something on one of the Zenyatta.com "diary entries" about Lane's End readying a new barn for Zen, so maybe she's not just going to be sent out to pasture. Sounds like they're making a serious effort to accommodate her.

[Dave in TJMex]

Ken Rudolph actually said Mike Smith was the only man "who could handle Zenyatta's jelly." What kind of comment is that; I mean, really?

Its crude, perverted and funny, all in one sentence.

[EquineAnne]

I read somewhere, not sure where, that Mario was staying for a couple days to tell the Lane's End folks about Z's idiosyncrasies. There also was something on one of the Zenyatta.com "diary entries" about Lane's End readying a new barn for Zen, so maybe she's not just going to be sent out to pasture. Sounds like they're making a serious effort to accommodate her.

I can't imagine Ann Moss staying away from her for too long. Too bits she's a frequent visitor. I'd be a wreck for her breeding, for her pregnancy, and most definitely the foaling. That foal will be the next coming of Christ.

[islandgirl45]

I can't imagine Ann Moss staying away from her for too long. Too bits she's a frequent visitor. I'd be a wreck for her breeding, for her pregnancy, and most definitely the foaling. That foal will be the next coming of Christ.

You're right! I bet the Mosses will think of this foal as their grandchild. I can see Ann knitting a baby blanket now. . .size XXXL:)

[Spahny]

I can't imagine Ann Moss staying away from her for too long. Too bits she's a frequent visitor. I'd be a wreck for her breeding, for her pregnancy, and most definitely the foaling. That foal will be the next coming of Christ.

If Zenyatta can pass along her tremendous spirit to her babiez I think we will have some very exciting zeasons ahead of us. Long live Z. May her legend grow and may she continue to thrill and aggravate like no horse before her.

[Retrospectiv]

I read somewhere, not sure where, that Mario was staying for a couple days to tell the Lane's End folks about Z's idiosyncrasies. There also was something on one of the Zenyatta.com "diary entries" about Lane's End readying a new barn for Zen, so maybe she's not just going to be sent out to pasture. Sounds like they're making a serious effort to accommodate her.

I don't know about a 'new' barn, but Z won't be out to pasture permanently for a while yet anyhow. They'll let her adjust slowly to freedom, and besides, they'll have her in and under lights early evening to get her cycling for mid-February. Most open mares start under lights in December.

[Uh-oh Bango]

I thought it was a nice ceremony. Except for the lady singing. That was pathetic.

Was she a fat lady? Because that really does mean it's over. :(

[drjohnh]

well i was just feeling sad and weepy until lisa sang the zenyatta song and then it was all floodgates open.
i actually thought that tvg did a pretty good job. thank goodness that smarty baby won the last race or i would still be crying

[Psychotic Parakeet]

It was bittersweet. Many people around me were crying; including myself. The thing that got to me was seeing Mario wiping away tears as he led her down the track one last time to go toward the backstretch path. One of thing that made me crack up is that Zenyatta decided to urinate in the Winner's Circle, kind of like marking her "spot" that this was her last claim to fame. LOL

Today also marked the day that I brought my boyfriend with me. It was his first visit to a racetrack. Not only did he get to absorb the Zenyatta hoopla, but he enjoyed observing the horses from other races and making bets based on looks. Looks like I may have hooked another fan into the industry. ;)

Overall, good day... The skies decided to open up after The Queen left the track. Kind of like the powers that may be up above were sending their tearful goodbye.

[PONYRCR]

It was bittersweet. Many people around me were crying; including myself. The thing that got to me was seeing Mario wiping away tears as he led her down the track one last time to go toward the backstretch path. One of thing that made me crack up is that Zenyatta decided to urinate in the Winner's Circle, kind of like marking her "spot" that this was her last claim to fame. LOL

Today also marked the day that I brought my boyfriend with me. It was his first visit to a racetrack. Not only did he get to absorb the Zenyatta hoopla, but he enjoyed observing the horses from other races and making bets based on looks. Looks like I may have hooked another fan into the industry. ;)

Overall, good day... The skies decided to open up after The Queen left the track. Kind of like the powers that may be up above were sending their tearful goodbye.

That was my thought too. She was marking her territory.

[Dave in TJMex]

That was my thought too. She was marking her territory.

Or maybe expressing her opinion about being retired!

[The Tin Man]

Kinda overcast today, so my pics didn't come out that great. But ... This gives you an idea of what Zenny Day was like ...

We'll miss her ... And I know she'll miss the people and attention too ... :sad:

All the best Zenny!!

[Starine]

Thanks for posting the photos. I was watching the beginning on TVG but then I had to leave for practice.

[The Tin Man]

Thanks for posting the photos. I was watching the beginning on TVG but then I had to leave for practice.

You're welcome ... Glad you enjoyed them. :)

[second_glance]

Zenyatta's appearance at KEE has been delayed until 6 pm, local time -- and she'll be in the lighted show ring at the back of the sales pavilion.

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/60219/zenyattas-appearance-delayed-by-two-hours

[Dusty]

Geez it is COLD back there!

[Paladin]

Looking at Keeneland Webcam, looks like its snowing:

www.keeneland.com/racing/frames/webcam.aspx (http://www.keeneland.com/racing/frames/webcam.aspx)

[Horse's Rear]

I'm glad I didn't go.

[JD]

Some nice pictures of her retirement at HP:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/liz-o/post_1377_b_792125.html#s199477

[moonwalker]

"An Exaltation to their Hearts."

I was at Keeneland's sales pavilion tonight, and yes, it was bitterly cold. Snow had been falling lightly earlier in the afternoon. People were bundled up like football spectators, in coats, hats, scarves, and blankets. By 5:30, a huge crowd of ringed the long pavilion three rows deeps, and reporters and photographers packed the inner circle.

Eyes followed every plane that descended on Blue Grass Field in the distance. "Is it her?" Finally, there was an announcement, "Zenyatta's plane has landed." Then "Zenyatta is on the van," followed shortly by "Zenyatta has entered the Keeneland grounds."

Parents lifted small, bundled children on their shoulders as the police lights flashed on the other side of Barn 15. Through the gap, a white van appeared, then a flash of a dark hip covered in a blanket. The crowd gasped, "There she is!"

After a few minutes in the barn, Steve Willard, the Mosses, and the Shirreffs strode down the path toward the covered outdoor pavilion, like bridesmaids and groomsmen at a wedding. The crowd stood at attention, watching the gap in the barn. A cheer went up as those familiar ears were seen above the throng.

Zenyatta, led by her groom Mario, marched down the aisle, her head held high. As she completed a circuit of the ring, she arched her neck and began her dance, striking out with a leg, swishing her tail, twisting her sinuous dappled body with the grace of a panther. She lifted her head, struck a pose, and cameras whirred like a million cicadas.
The crowd gasped audibly at her majesty.

Ann Moss tried to speak, but her words describing Zenyatta's loving nature were choked with tears. She was giving away her daughter. Chris McCarron, wearing a purple Zenyatta hat and beaming like a schoolboy, hugged her sympathetically. After a few more circuits of the pavilion, John Shirreffs called out to the groom, "Let's go Mario, it's time to go home." As she was led away, McCarron ran to Zenyatta and hugged her like a starstruck fan. Mario smiled. Jerry Moss thanked the crowd, but the people cried out, "No, thank *you* Mr. Moss, for one more year."

Lacy snowflakes fell like a veil on the dark body as she was led away into the night, to her new home, to her future bridegroom. I remembered words I had read earlier this afternoon on the grave of Man o' War, "Almost from the beginning, Man o' War touched the imagination of men, and they saw different things in him. But one they they will all remember is that he brought an exaltation to their hearts." As Zenyatta has brought an exaltation to ours.

Farewell Zenyatta, and welcome.

Mary MMM

[Lamb Chop]

Mary, thanks so much for the report- heartfelt and lovely writing.

I wish this lovely mare many years of happiness knee-deep in bluegrass.

[moonwalker]

This isn't my video; I have several, but I can't upload until I get back to Colorado. This laptop is on its last legs, and I may chuck it off the 2nd Street Bridge in Louisville into the Ohio River. Seriously.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lferfsR6Olg

(I hope this works. I can't cut and paste, I had to type it by hand. If not, it's called Keeneland Farewell Party with the date 12-06-10.)

I have a lot of scenes of Zenyatta walking and prancing around, as well as Jerry and Ann Moss speaking as she walks. I watched them in the car after the ceremony while waiting for the crowd to disperse, and I cried my eyes out. When John said, "Let's go Mario, it's time to go home," it killed me. Mario was his same stoic self, proudly walking his lady, but I'm sure he was crying inside.

The snow around the Lexington area is gorgeous. I'm sure Zenyatta will be going for a roll in it. She seemed to be alert and happy in the cold air. I'm sure she'll be missed in California, but don't think that she is miserable. I saw her tonight, and I know she'll be happy in the land where she was born, and the land where her children and her children's children will be born.

Mary MMM

[Dave in TJMex]

"An Exaltation to their Hearts."

I was at Keeneland's sales pavilion tonight, and yes, it was bitterly cold. Snow had been falling lightly earlier in the afternoon. People were bundled up like football spectators, in coats, hats, scarves, and blankets. By 5:30, a huge crowd of ringed the long pavilion three rows deeps, and reporters and photographers packed the inner circle.

Eyes followed every plane that descended on Blue Grass Field in the distance. "Is it her?" Finally, there was an announcement, "Zenyatta's plane has landed." Then "Zenyatta is on the van," followed shortly by "Zenyatta has entered the Keeneland grounds."

Parents lifted small, bundled children on their shoulders as the police lights flashed on the other side of Barn 15. Through the gap, a white van appeared, then a flash of a dark hip covered in a blanket. The crowd gasped, "There she is!"

After a few minutes in the barn, Steve Willard, the Mosses, and the Shirreffs strode down the path toward the covered outdoor pavilion, like bridesmaids and groomsmen at a wedding. The crowd stood at attention, watching the gap in the barn. A cheer went up as those familiar ears were seen above the throng.

Zenyatta, led by her groom Mario, marched down the aisle, her head held high. As she completed a circuit of the ring, she arched her neck and began her dance, striking out with a leg, swishing her tail, twisting her sinuous dappled body with the grace of a panther. She lifted her head, struck a pose, and cameras whirred like a million cicadas.
The crowd gasped audibly at her majesty.

Ann Moss tried to speak, but her words describing Zenyatta's loving nature were choked with tears. She was giving away her daughter. Chris McCarron, wearing a purple Zenyatta hat and beaming like a schoolboy, hugged her sympathetically. After a few more circuits of the pavilion, John Shirreffs called out to the groom, "Let's go Mario, it's time to go home." As she was led away, McCarron ran to Zenyatta and hugged her like a starstruck fan. Mario smiled. Jerry Moss thanked the crowd, but the people cried out, "No, thank *you* Mr. Moss, for one more year."

Lacy snowflakes fell like a veil on the dark body as she was led away into the night, to her new home, to her future bridegroom. I remembered words I had read earlier this afternoon on the grave of Man o' War, "Almost from the beginning, Man o' War touched the imagination of men, and they saw different things in him. But one they they will all remember is that he brought an exaltation to their hearts." As Zenyatta has brought an exaltation to ours.

Farewell Zenyatta, and welcome.

Mary MMM

Very nice, Moonwalker!

[Ack Ack]

"An Exaltation to their Hearts."

Lacy snowflakes fell like a veil on the dark body as she was led away into the night,

Zenyatta has left the building. :sad:

[LeeAnne151]

:sad:

[personalensign79]

THANK YOU Mary for that description. It's beautiful. The image in my head of her taking a roll in the snow brought a tear to my eye and also a smile to my face.

[moonwalker]

I made a mistake. It wasn't Chris McCarron who ran to Zenyatta before she left and hugged her; it was Mike Smith! Chris McCarron was *everywhere* around the ring tonight, and they're both little guys; with my nearsigntedness, I wrote the wrong name. But it was Mike, in a really dapper 1940's type fedora.

I must confess, my eyes were focused on Zenyatta this evening far more than any of the people. Sorry!

Mary MMM

[second_glance]

For those on FB, a Matt Wooley photo from this evening:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1795490652159&set=a.1113697407754.2019552.1386492313

[Dave in TJMex]

For those on FB, a Matt Wooley photo from this evening:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1795490652159&set=a.1113697407754.2019552.1386492313

Thanks, Second Glance. A very nice photo!

[islandgirl45]

"An Exaltation to their Hearts."

I was at Keeneland's sales pavilion tonight, and yes, it was bitterly cold. Snow had been falling lightly earlier in the afternoon. People were bundled up like football spectators, in coats, hats, scarves, and blankets. By 5:30, a huge crowd of ringed the long pavilion three rows deeps, and reporters and photographers packed the inner circle.

Eyes followed every plane that descended on Blue Grass Field in the distance. "Is it her?" Finally, there was an announcement, "Zenyatta's plane has landed." Then "Zenyatta is on the van," followed shortly by "Zenyatta has entered the Keeneland grounds."

Parents lifted small, bundled children on their shoulders as the police lights flashed on the other side of Barn 15. Through the gap, a white van appeared, then a flash of a dark hip covered in a blanket. The crowd gasped, "There she is!"

After a few minutes in the barn, Steve Willard, the Mosses, and the Shirreffs strode down the path toward the covered outdoor pavilion, like bridesmaids and groomsmen at a wedding. The crowd stood at attention, watching the gap in the barn. A cheer went up as those familiar ears were seen above the throng.

Zenyatta, led by her groom Mario, marched down the aisle, her head held high. As she completed a circuit of the ring, she arched her neck and began her dance, striking out with a leg, swishing her tail, twisting her sinuous dappled body with the grace of a panther. She lifted her head, struck a pose, and cameras whirred like a million cicadas.
The crowd gasped audibly at her majesty.

Ann Moss tried to speak, but her words describing Zenyatta's loving nature were choked with tears. She was giving away her daughter. Chris McCarron, wearing a purple Zenyatta hat and beaming like a schoolboy, hugged her sympathetically. After a few more circuits of the pavilion, John Shirreffs called out to the groom, "Let's go Mario, it's time to go home." As she was led away, McCarron ran to Zenyatta and hugged her like a starstruck fan. Mario smiled. Jerry Moss thanked the crowd, but the people cried out, "No, thank *you* Mr. Moss, for one more year."

Lacy snowflakes fell like a veil on the dark body as she was led away into the night, to her new home, to her future bridegroom. I remembered words I had read earlier this afternoon on the grave of Man o' War, "Almost from the beginning, Man o' War touched the imagination of men, and they saw different things in him. But one they they will all remember is that he brought an exaltation to their hearts." As Zenyatta has brought an exaltation to ours.

Farewell Zenyatta, and welcome.

Mary MMM

A lovely tribute Mary. Truly, you painted a picture with your words.

[Railbird]

It will be a long, long time before there is another horse people feel strongly enough about to stand outside in 18-degree weather for hours, just to watch her walk in a circle.

Thank you Zenyatta, for the amazing gift of yourself.

[Dave in TJMex]

It will be a long, long time before there is another horse people feel strongly enough about to stand outside in 18-degree weather for hours, just to watch her walk in a circle. .

Very good point, and a powerful statement about how strongly many people feel about Zenyatta.

[islandgirl45]

Claire Novak was at Keeneland, too, and wrote about it for ESPN.

Zenyatta comes full circle
By Claire Novak
http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/news/story?id=5893275

Excerpt:
"We came to see the most famous horse in the world," said 13-year-old Kentucky native Mahayla West. . ."

"At Keeneland, just across the road from Blue Grass International Airport, fans had been arriving since early afternoon. They drove from New York City, from Virginia, from Colorado, from farms just down the street and from homes across the nation. Young and old, they gathered to watch Thoroughbred racing's modern legend parade before the brief van ride to Lane's End Farm in Versailles, Ky. Her days on the racetrack were over. Life as a broodmare lay ahead . . ."

[BornToWin]

Thank you for your report and insights, Mary. If that story shows up in one of the online pubs, let us know so we can direct others to it who are not on this forum.

My BH Zenyatta Special Edition came yesterday. It is a beautiful compilation of stories following Zenyatta's life and career.

One story, "Perfect Pedigree" by Avalon Hunter, includes an interview with Eric Kronefeld who talks about Zenyatta's breeding and his decision to breed Vertigineux to Street Cry. He said Vertigineux had bad ankles (the story didn't say what that means) and transmitted them to her daughter, Balance, but Zenyatta doesn't have them. Maybe Street Cry transmits strong ankles at least in this daughter.

According to the story, Kronfeld sold the dam and kept her Bernardini foal. The story is from 2009, so that colt must be almost 2. Anyone have news about him? A name for him?

The story also describes Zenyatta as, "...A big, rugged, rather plain mare in the mold of her dam and maternal grand-sire, Zenyatta has a pedigree loaded with strains more noted for size, scope, and stamina than for show-ring looks..."

Plain? I'm not sure what that means...or rugged? She appears to be so balanced and more smoothly blended, than coarse. Her strong straight legs, that powerful rear...shoulders, neck...what is rugged about her?

Big, she is, though not because of steroids. That's refreshing. She is what she appears to be, and perhaps her extraordinary beauty is a reflection of the care and attention her people gave her. Regal with that faraway gaze, or close up, staring almost knowingly into people's eyes as if to read their soul... that could be a little unsettling for some.

[PJMIII]

Mary, thanks so much for your posts.

[GinTalking]

Nicely done, Mary. Actually enjoyed your version more than the other one.

It's difficult enough to read accounts like these (trying to keep a dry eye) so the less slurpy sloppy phrasing, the better ... IMO.

[moonwalker]

The Bernardini foal is a filly named Eblouissante, who will turn 2 on January 1. She is slated to go to the barn of John Shirreffs to be trained. Her name means "blinding" or "dazzling" in the sense of brilliant, charming, beautiful.

John also has either a full or half sister to Life is Sweet coming to his barn also. Could be interesting times to come with these younger siblings of champions.

And thanks for liking my Zenyatta report. I'm a little bummed that I can't show you my pictures due to computer difficulties, but I will upload as soon as I can after I drive back to Colorado.

My cat has been happy on this trip -- I broke out a seat warmer for the car, covered it in terry cloth (her favorite), and no matter what the temperature outside, she curls up on it and blissfully sleeps. She's contented, and I'm contented that she's not trying to crawl onto my lap for cuddles while I'm driving. :-)

Mary MMM

[EquineAnne]

My cat has been happy on this trip -- I broke out a seat warmer for the car, covered it in terry cloth (her favorite), and no matter what the temperature outside, she curls up on it and blissfully sleeps.

Is it 12 volt? Did you leave her in the car when you went somewhere? We do alot of little trips and want our dog to be with us. But it's cold in these parts! I was thinking of some type of seat/crate warmer. Please let me know. Thanks Mary.

[Man o' Taz]

A lovely tribute Mary. Truly, you painted a picture with your words.

Indeed, she deserves thanks for expressing in her gift of words the gift of Zenyatta on this night...

[islandgirl45]

Thank you for your report and insights, Mary. If that story shows up in one of the online pubs, let us know so we can direct others to it who are not on this forum.

My BH Zenyatta Special Edition came yesterday. It is a beautiful compilation of stories following Zenyatta's life and career.

One story, "Perfect Pedigree" by Avalon Hunter, includes an interview with Eric Kronefeld who talks about Zenyatta's breeding and his decision to breed Vertigineux to Street Cry. He said Vertigineux had bad ankles (the story didn't say what that means) and transmitted them to her daughter, Balance, but Zenyatta doesn't have them. Maybe Street Cry transmits strong ankles at least in this daughter.

According to the story, Kronfeld sold the dam and kept her Bernardini foal. The story is from 2009, so that colt must be almost 2. Anyone have news about him? A name for him?

The story also describes Zenyatta as, "...A big, rugged, rather plain mare in the mold of her dam and maternal grand-sire, Zenyatta has a pedigree loaded with strains more noted for size, scope, and stamina than for show-ring looks..."

Plain? I'm not sure what that means...or rugged? She appears to be so balanced and more smoothly blended, than coarse. Her strong straight legs, that powerful rear...shoulders, neck...what is rugged about her?

Big, she is, though not because of steroids. That's refreshing. She is what she appears to be, and perhaps her extraordinary beauty is a reflection of the care and attention her people gave her. Regal with that faraway gaze, or close up, staring almost knowingly into people's eyes as if to read their soul... that could be a little unsettling for some.

Perhaps they mean she doesn't have a refined, somewhat Arab-y looking head? (Excuse that technical term:))

Some Thoroughbreds, for example, Blame, have a bit of the Arab dish in their profile.

[PONYRCR]

Can't wait to see photos/video of Zenyatta jumping, bucking, farting and squeeling on her first day of freedom in her paddock.

[tiger]

It's not from her paddock, but here's DRF video from Keeneland last night; the story link is there, too.

http://www.drf.com/news/video-zenyattas-farewell-party-keeneland

[GinTalking]

I think that's a fairly accurate description. She may be able to run like the wind, but pretty she's not.

I know people find it offensive that anyone would dare call a horse anything but spectacularly beautiful ... but let's get real here ... they aren't all gorgeous. Like John Henry, she may be put together in such a way that they are beautiful to watch, but as an overall look, I'd say John, Zenyatta, Rachel and many many more horses are not 'pretty'.

In fact, pretty doesn't win races; ability and heart do.

[EquineAnne]

I think that's a fairly accurate description. She may be able to run like the wind, but pretty she's not.

I know people find it offensive that anyone would dare call a horse anything but spectacularly beautiful ... but let's get real here ... they aren't all gorgeous. Like John Henry, she may be put together in such a way that they are beautiful to watch, but as an overall look, I'd say John, Zenyatta, Rachel and many many more horses are not 'pretty'.

In fact, pretty doesn't win races; ability and heart do.

I think Zenyatta is gorgeous. As for John, as a young horse I didn't think he was ugly. In the last few years of his life he was brutal looking though. Rachel isn't a beauty IMO.

[islandgirl45]

I think that's a fairly accurate description. She may be able to run like the wind, but pretty she's not.

I know people find it offensive that anyone would dare call a horse anything but spectacularly beautiful ... but let's get real here ... they aren't all gorgeous. Like John Henry, she may be put together in such a way that they are beautiful to watch, but as an overall look, I'd say John, Zenyatta, Rachel and many many more horses are not 'pretty'.

In fact, pretty doesn't win races; ability and heart do.

Case in point, Mr. Hot Stuff;)

[GinTalking]

I think Zenyatta is gorgeous. As for John, as a young horse I didn't think he was ugly. In the last few years of his life he was brutal looking though. Rachel isn't a beauty IMO.

You're certainly entitled to your opinion.

However, I never said John or Zenyatta or Rachel were "ugly". I said they were not pretty.

[The Tin Man]

Looks like a pretty pony to me! :becky:

[GinTalking]

Case in point, Mr. Hot Stuff;)

Absolutely. Stunning animal.

There are horses who based solely on their looks MAKE you do a double take the first time you see them ... in a pasture, at a sale, in a maiden race (before they are anyone famous).

There are others whose presence and ability is what causes you to become interested in them, but not necessarily their looks.

And there are horses that when you see them, you kind of roll your eyes as in, "yikes, look at that head" or "my heavens, what a terrible mover" or "Lordy, look at those legs."

[GinTalking]

Haha .... as if I expected anything else from The Tin Man.

[islandgirl45]

Looks like a pretty pony to me! :becky:

I would call her striking, athletic, charismatic and stunning in her size and physique, if that makes sense, rather than the technical definition of "pretty."

It is Zenyatta's entire presence that makes you stop and do a double-take.

[Jumron]

I am with you, as I am sure lots of TBCers are. How bittersweet this day is. :>(

Should we slit our wrists or just go get really drunk?

But at least she was retired before she ever got hurt, I keep reminding myself.
Amen to that statement. The last horse that I had feelings close to this was Go For Wand, and even though sniffling through her HP ceremony on TVG, I kept telling myself that unlike GFW she's leaving the track happy, healthy, and sound with the prospect of watching how her foals do in the future.

[Liztannica]

John also has either a full or half sister to Life is Sweet coming to his barn also. Could be interesting times to come with these younger siblings of champions.

Mary MMM

Aint She Sweet is a full sister to Life is Sweet...she is already at John's barn and resides in Life is Sweet's old stall. I cannot wait to see how she does :)

[Diver52]

I really don't see Zenyatta as "plain" unless you focus on her head, which I agree is not "pretty" or particularly feminine. And I guess that in horses, as in people, one does tend to focus on the face! But I've never seen an animal so physically imposing. The first time I ever saw her, I wasn't a fan, it was the El Encino in 2008. I was watching Tough Tiz' Sis and then, my God, it was as if I were in a rowboat and a battleship cruised by. Maybe not literally, but she seemed to take up my entire field of view! I knew then my TTS was running for second!. I think her dark coat and her always-impeccable condition factor into it as well.

[Retrospectiv]

Can't wait to see photos/video of Zenyatta jumping, bucking, farting and squeeling on her first day of freedom in her paddock.

I wonder if they'll be too paranoid to let her do that for a bit. Be nice if she could vs. being tranq'd and put in a round pen or small paddock.

[The Tin Man]

Haha .... as if I expected anything else from The Tin Man.

Heh Heh Heh ... Glad to oblidge Gin ... :becky:

As far as lookers that can't run a lick ... I totally understand what you mean ... Check out two of my favorites like that that are currently running ... Boston Baked Bean and Nana Beach ... They are absolutely stunning ... Boston Baked Bean can't run a lick and Nana Beach isn't much better. They're both running this Friday at Hollywood Park ... :)

Boston Baked Bean is the 1st pic ... Nana Beach is the other 2 ...

[The Tin Man]

Aint She Sweet is a full sister to Life is Sweet...she is already at John's barn and resides in Life is Sweet's old stall. I cannot wait to see how she does :)

Great name! Now how cool would it be if she became something? :)

I loved Life Is Sweet!

Another one that John has that I can't wait to see is Death Star ... He debuts in the next few weeks per John. Not sure if he has talent, but I LOVE the name ... Very cool. :becky:

[Rick1323]

Standing still I would call her striking. That dappled coat is unlike anything I have ever seen before. But let her move just a little and her beauty comes out. The phrase beauty in motion fits her perfectly.

Okay, I am going back to betting on horses now. This fan stuff is exhausting.

[EquineAnne]

You're certainly entitled to your opinion.

However, I never said John or Zenyatta or Rachel were "ugly". I said they were not pretty.

Oh gosh Gin, I know you didn't say John was ugly. That's all I've heard about him tho since I became a fan. In his elder years he was pretty awful looking but I didn't think he was when he was racing. Sorry if I didn't explain myself.

[EquineAnne]

Looks like a pretty pony to me! :becky:

Tinny, the second photo is my perception of gorgeous. Man, she's some hoss. And I know it might seem horrible to say it but I feel it is such a waste for her to go off and be a Mom knowing (or pretty much figuring) she will not duplicate herself. I hope she will be truly happy.

[The Tin Man]

Oh gosh Gin, I know you didn't say John was ugly. That's all I've heard about him tho since I became a fan. In his elder years he was pretty awful looking but I didn't think he was when he was racing. Sorry if I didn't explain myself.

Speaking of Johnny ... Here's a pic of him that I have from a couple of weeks before he passed ... Not bad for a 32 year old ... ;-)

[islandgirl45]

Speaking of Johnny ... Here's a pic of him that I have from a couple of weeks before he passed ... Not bad for a 32 year old ... ;-)

And his ears were back. Right in character!:D

[Diver52]

Speaking of Johnny ... Here's a pic of him that I have from a couple of weeks before he passed ... Not bad for a 32 year old ... ;-)

Ha,I don't have it uploaded but I have one of John from May of that year, he's all shaggy and looks like a bog pony! He looks much sleeker in yours!

[The Tin Man]

Ha,I don't have it uploaded but I have one of John from May of that year, he's all shaggy and looks like a bog pony! He looks much sleeker in yours!

Must've caught him right after a makeover! :)

[EquineAnne]

Speaking of Johnny ... Here's a pic of him that I have from a couple of weeks before he passed ... Not bad for a 32 year old ... ;-)

I'm happy it only shows his front end. I have some from that time period that show a different picture. Very sad. RIP John.

[Uh-oh Bango]

Standing still I would call her striking. That dappled coat is unlike anything I have ever seen before. But let her move just a little and her beauty comes out. The phrase beauty in motion fits her perfectly.

Okay, I am going back to betting on horses now. This fan stuff is exhausting.

Rick, you've been put through HELL!

[Uh-oh Bango]

Speaking of Johnny ... Here's a pic of him that I have from a couple of weeks before he passed ... Not bad for a 32 year old ... ;-)

Boy, he looks great in that photo. He always had a kind of mulish look. I don't mean this in a mean way. Mules are great survivors, and John Henry was a tough old bird who gave no quarter. I somehow thought he'd live forever.

[The Tin Man]

Boy, he looks great in that photo. He always had a kind of mulish look. I don't mean this in a mean way. Mules are great survivors, and John Henry was a tough old bird who gave no quarter. I somehow thought he'd live forever.

He did ... Figuratively speaking ... :)

[islandgirl45]

Steve Haskin has a fun column at Bloodhorse.com

I lied
07 Dec 2010 1:07 PM
By Steve Haskin
http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2010/12/07/hangin-with-haskin-i-lied.aspx#comments
(http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2010/12/07/hangin-with-haskin-i-lied.aspx#comments)
Excerpt:
"I have been involved in racing for 43 years and have seen the great ones come and go. I accepted their retirements with no problem and proceeded to look for the next great one. So, why can’t I do that with Zenyatta? Why is this void so much larger than all the previous ones? I have gotten close to almost every great horse of my lifetime, but why did I feel like a star struck kid being up close to Zenyatta? Why am I worried about her being on a breeding farm without the human contact and adoring crowds that became such a major part of her life? Why do I actually feel she is going to miss John Shirreffs and Mario Espinoza and Steve Willard, and Dottie Shirreffs, and the Mosses, and everyone else who has fed her large doses of love over the years? Why am I anthropomorphizing and not doing it in a metaphorical or literary manner?....."

[drjohnh]

why is it odd to think she will miss all her people, of course she is going to miss them. and i do wonder if she will miss the visits from her fans and be bored standing around in a pasture...i just hope she makes a good friend to hang out with

[Horse's Rear]

Oh gosh Gin, I know you didn't say John was ugly. That's all I've heard about him tho since I became a fan. In his elder years he was pretty awful looking but I didn't think he was when he was racing. Sorry if I didn't explain myself.

Pretty pony posters should ignore this rant because it is about what I find maddening about their discussions; if you ignore this, I promise not to continue it.

But in less than a page we have Zenyatta identified as "not pretty," which draws a counterclaim that she is gorgeous, and a "pretty pony," only to have the blatant disagreement papered over with pretend accommodations (in which no one really changes their opinion, just sacrifices a little sincerity); and in the meantime we get to look at two "pretty" horses who can't run, and hear contrasting claims about (and look at photos of) John Henry, who either was never pretty, or was pretty when he ran, but whom--no one can doubt--was positively butt-ugly by the end of his life.

Like everyone else, I have my own views and they sometimes involve more general aesthetic appreciations that cater toward standardized norms of "beauty," and at other times see beauty in the way the animal is physically made for motion. I don't see how anyone looking at Zenyatta cannot appreciate the kinetic motion in her design, even when she is standing still. I accept that some (perhaps many) people do not see that, but it is so striking and so unusual that I am both moved by it, and surprised that what seems innate in her being is not what strikes other viewers at first look. The two non-running thoroughbreds introduced as examples of "pretty" seem to me good illustrations of horses about whom I can make up a kind of aesthetic appreciation, but it would have to have nothing to do with running ability--if they were runners, one of the pleasures they would offer would be surprise, because they don't look like runners to me.

And I can't think of anyone in my lifetime who offered the pleasure of that surprise more than John Henry, who always looked to my eye like the cheap side of ordinary until you were in deep stretch with everything on the line, and the dirty little basterd was just running harder than anyone else. Those were the only moments that he looked anything at all like "pretty" that I can recall.

What I find maddening about these conversations is that they pretend to be public exchanges, and yet they always seem to me to devolve quickly into mutual acceptance of total subjectivity, in which one person's "pretty" is just a name for whatever or whoever he or she happens to like.

Whether you think she was pretty or not, I will be surprised if it isn't a long time before you see another horse who you think looks like Zenyatta. There is certainly a strangeness in that, perhaps even a strange beauty. Though, of course, nothing nearly so strange as that godawful distorted photo of Rachel from last year.

Rant over. Back to pretty posting; ignore me and I will go away.

[The Tin Man]

Pretty pony posters should ignore this rant because it is about what I find maddening about their discussions; if you ignore this, I promise not to continue it.

But in less than a page we have Zenyatta identified as "not pretty," which draws a counterclaim that she is gorgeous, and a "pretty pony," only to have the blatant disagreement papered over with pretend accommodations (in which no one really changes their opinion, just sacrifices a little sincerity); and in the meantime we get to look at two "pretty" horses who can't run, and here contrasting claims about (and look at photos of) John Henry, who either was never pretty, or was pretty when he ran, but whom--no one can doubt--was positively butt-ugly by the end of his life.

Like everyone else, I have my own views and they sometimes involve more general aesthetic appreciations that cater toward standardized norms of "beauty," and at other times see beauty in the way the animal is physically made for motion. I don't see how anyone looking at Zenyatta cannot appreciate the kinetic motion in her design, even when she is standing still. I accept that some (perhaps many) people do not see that, but it is so striking and so unusual that I am both moved by it, and surprised that what seems innate in her being is not what strikes other viewers at first look. The two non-running thoroughbreds introduced as examples of "pretty" seem to me good illustrations of horses about whom I can make up a kind of aesthetic appreciation, but it would have to have nothing to do with running ability--if they were runners, one of the pleasures they would offer would be surprise, because they don't look like runners to me.

And I can't think of anyone in my lifetime who offered the pleasure of that surprise more than John Henry, who always looked to my eye like the cheap side of ordinary until you were in deep stretch with everything on the line, and the dirty little basterd was just running harder than anyone else. Those were the only moments that he looked anything at all like "pretty" that I can recall.

What I find maddening about these conversations is that they pretend to be public exchanges, and yet they always seem to me to devolve quickly into mutual acceptance of total subjectivity, in which one person's "pretty" is just a name for whatever or whoever he or she happens to like.

Whether you think she was pretty or not, I will be surprised if it isn't a long time before you see another horse who you think looks like Zenyatta. There is certainly a strangeness in that, perhaps even a strange beauty. Though, of course, nothing nearly so strange as that godawful distorted photo of Rachel from last year.

Rant over. Back to pretty posting; ignore me and I will go away.

Great post HR!

[islandgirl45]

Pretty pony posters should ignore this rant because it is about what I find maddening about their discussions; if you ignore this, I promise not to continue it.

But in less than a page we have Zenyatta identified as "not pretty," which draws a counterclaim that she is gorgeous, and a "pretty pony," only to have the blatant disagreement papered over with pretend accommodations (in which no one really changes their opinion, just sacrifices a little sincerity); and in the meantime we get to look at two "pretty" horses who can't run, and here contrasting claims about (and look at photos of) John Henry, who either was never pretty, or was pretty when he ran, but whom--no one can doubt--was positively butt-ugly by the end of his life.

Like everyone else, I have my own views and they sometimes involve more general aesthetic appreciations that cater toward standardized norms of "beauty," and at other times see beauty in the way the animal is physically made for motion. I don't see how anyone looking at Zenyatta cannot appreciate the kinetic motion in her design, even when she is standing still. I accept that some (perhaps many) people do not see that, but it is so striking and so unusual that I am both moved by it, and surprised that what seems innate in her being is not what strikes other viewers at first look. The two non-running thoroughbreds introduced as examples of "pretty" seem to me good illustrations of horses about whom I can make up a kind of aesthetic appreciation, but it would have to have nothing to do with running ability--if they were runners, one of the pleasures they would offer would be surprise, because they don't look like runners to me.

And I can't think of anyone in my lifetime who offered the pleasure of that surprise more than John Henry, who always looked to my eye like the cheap side of ordinary until you were in deep stretch with everything on the line, and the dirty little basterd was just running harder than anyone else. Those were the only moments that he looked anything at all like "pretty" that I can recall.

What I find maddening about these conversations is that they pretend to be public exchanges, and yet they always seem to me to devolve quickly into mutual acceptance of total subjectivity, in which one person's "pretty" is just a name for whatever or whoever he or she happens to like.

Whether you think she was pretty or not, I will be surprised if it isn't a long time before you see another horse who you think looks like Zenyatta. There is certainly a strangeness in that, perhaps even a strange beauty. Though, of course, nothing nearly so strange as that godawful distorted photo of Rachel from last year.

Rant over. Back to pretty posting; ignore me and I will go away.

I'm not certain I understand the "maddening" part of what you called your rant. Beauty in everything living and inanimate is perhaps the most subjective of human judgments.
I can speak for myself, by reposting what I wrote earlier about how I see Zenyatta...


I would call her striking, athletic, charismatic and stunning in her size and physique, rather than the technical definition of "pretty."
It is Zenyatta's entire presence that makes you stop and do a double-take.


It is her total being that fascinates many people. She is unique.

[GinTalking]

Islandgirl, I thought your description was very appropriate and accurate. Most of the others (pretty, gorgeous, etc.) seem to be more of a reaction to "but she won 19 straight ... the Mosses are so wonderful ... she'll let you kiss her on the nose ... she has that wonderful dance ..." and so forth.

She's a beautiful mover. I could watch her gallop and run all day long. She's dappled like no other. She's big and powerful and yet seemingly very sweet as well, all fabulous qualities. But for me, those words don't equal "pretty". They make her unique, powerful, striking, imposing and so forth.

I'm not dissing her, but fanatics have a way of lashing out as if one has just compared their favorite horse with Hitler. I see different things when I look at a horse and when I watch one run. Example: I loved to watch Curlin on the track, and in that LE video with him powering across his paddock. He is big, powerful, impressive ... but that head is just enough to keep him off my "pretty" list, or at least there'd be a footnote next my entry.

I thought Charismatic was very attractive. I loved everything about him. I loved Dubai Millennium's head and I think a lot of people don't like that boxy muzzle look. It's one of my favorite things on a horse (and not all that common). I love a dish face, something else a lot of people don't like, but the Buckpasser line is famous for that elegant, refined, dished look. I believe he's one of the horses people point to as being almost perfect.

I don't mind when someone says Rachel isn't pretty. I adored Rachel more than any other horse in the last year or two. There are many positive things to say about her, but pretty wouldn't be one of them.

Tapit is GORGEOUS. So was his sire. Afleet Alex, not so much. Alex is one of my favorite horses. Much to love about that horse, but he has a plain head with an 'interesting' eye ... not too pretty.

And now, for those who want to look at yet another gallery of Zenyatta photos, here are some from last weekend that a friend took at Hollywood Park.

http://www.photopm.com/index.php?option=com_igallery&view=igcategory&id=40&Itemid=14

[PJMIII]

Great pictures.

[My Flag]

Zenyatta has that "Wow" factor, like the feeling you get when a mint condition original 60's muscle car roars by.

Thanks for posting the link to Patricia McQueen's photos, Gin.

[Man o' Taz]

Looks like a pretty pony to me! :becky:

Indeed, and while beauty is certainly subjective...after all it is in the eye of the beholder...there are different kinds of beauty...inner beauty which radiates out...seen as charm and charisma...and aesthetic beauty which relies on a purely physical dimension...

I think Zenyatta clearly has both...

There is no doubt putting a splash of white on a beautiful nose like that...you end up with a beautiful horse...at least with her face...but her body is remarkable as well IMHO.

Nice pics TTM...

[EquineAnne]

Pretty pony posters should ignore this rant because it is about what I find maddening about their discussions; if you ignore this, I promise not to continue it.

But in less than a page we have Zenyatta identified as "not pretty," which draws a counterclaim that she is gorgeous, and a "pretty pony," only to have the blatant disagreement papered over with pretend accommodations (in which no one really changes their opinion, just sacrifices a little sincerity); and in the meantime we get to look at two "pretty" horses who can't run, and hear contrasting claims about (and look at photos of) John Henry, who either was never pretty, or was pretty when he ran, but whom--no one can doubt--was positively butt-ugly by the end of his life.

Like everyone else, I have my own views and they sometimes involve more general aesthetic appreciations that cater toward standardized norms of "beauty," and at other times see beauty in the way the animal is physically made for motion. I don't see how anyone looking at Zenyatta cannot appreciate the kinetic motion in her design, even when she is standing still. I accept that some (perhaps many) people do not see that, but it is so striking and so unusual that I am both moved by it, and surprised that what seems innate in her being is not what strikes other viewers at first look. The two non-running thoroughbreds introduced as examples of "pretty" seem to me good illustrations of horses about whom I can make up a kind of aesthetic appreciation, but it would have to have nothing to do with running ability--if they were runners, one of the pleasures they would offer would be surprise, because they don't look like runners to me.

And I can't think of anyone in my lifetime who offered the pleasure of that surprise more than John Henry, who always looked to my eye like the cheap side of ordinary until you were in deep stretch with everything on the line, and the dirty little basterd was just running harder than anyone else. Those were the only moments that he looked anything at all like "pretty" that I can recall.

What I find maddening about these conversations is that they pretend to be public exchanges, and yet they always seem to me to devolve quickly into mutual acceptance of total subjectivity, in which one person's "pretty" is just a name for whatever or whoever he or she happens to like.

Whether you think she was pretty or not, I will be surprised if it isn't a long time before you see another horse who you think looks like Zenyatta. There is certainly a strangeness in that, perhaps even a strange beauty. Though, of course, nothing nearly so strange as that godawful distorted photo of Rachel from last year.

Rant over. Back to pretty posting; ignore me and I will go away.


I loved the post and concur! It is another HR nugget.

[islandgirl45]

Islandgirl, I thought your description was very appropriate and accurate. Most of the others (pretty, gorgeous, etc.) seem to be more of a reaction to "but she won 19 straight ... the Mosses are so wonderful ... she'll let you kiss her on the nose ... she has that wonderful dance ..." and so forth.

She's a beautiful mover. I could watch her gallop and run all day long. She's dappled like no other. She's big and powerful and yet seemingly very sweet as well, all fabulous qualities. But for me, those words don't equal "pretty". They make her unique, powerful, striking, imposing and so forth.

I'm not dissing her, but fanatics have a way of lashing out as if one has just compared their favorite horse with Hitler. I see different things when I look at a horse and when I watch one run. Example: I loved to watch Curlin on the track, and in that LE video with him powering across his paddock. He is big, powerful, impressive ... but that head is just enough to keep him off my "pretty" list, or at least there'd be a footnote next my entry.

I thought Charismatic was very attractive. I loved everything about him. I loved Dubai Millennium's head and I think a lot of people don't like that boxy muzzle look. It's one of my favorite things on a horse (and not all that common). I love a dish face, something else a lot of people don't like, but the Buckpasser line is famous for that elegant, refined, dished look. I believe he's one of the horses people point to as being almost perfect.

I don't mind when someone says Rachel isn't pretty. I adored Rachel more than any other horse in the last year or two. There are many positive things to say about her, but pretty wouldn't be one of them.

Tapit is GORGEOUS. So was his sire. Afleet Alex, not so much. Alex is one of my favorite horses. Much to love about that horse, but he has a plain head with an 'interesting' eye ... not too pretty.

And now, for those who want to look at yet another gallery of Zenyatta photos, here are some from last weekend that a friend took at Hollywood Park.

http://www.photopm.com/index.php?option=com_igallery&view=igcategory&id=40&Itemid=14

Thanks for posting that picture link GinTalking. I love the one of Mike Smith looking up at Zenyatta, as well as those of her with Carmen and Mario because it shows her interaction with "her people" and how much they love her.
It brought tears to my eyes seeing Mike Smith run to hug and kiss her at Keeneland, shortly before she was led away. Their lives have been entwined for so long I'm sure he feels a deep void.

I like the dished, refined look too. That's why I think Blame has a beautiful, refined head.

Although some don't like white markings, I have a soft spot for horses with lots of "chrome." I thought Tiz Chrome was a nice looking, talented colt and was shocked when his life ended so abruptly.
Although Scenic Blast hasn't exactly set the world on fire this year, he's a classy looking guy as well. Then of course, there's the expressive white face of TBC's own loveable Giant Oak, who I hope to see crossing the finish line ahead of everyone next year.:)

[EquineAnne]

Indeed, and while beauty is certainly subjective...after all it is in the eye of the beholder...there are different kinds of beauty...inner beauty which radiates out...seen as charm and charisma...and aesthetic beauty which relies on a purely physical dimension...

I think Zenyatta clearly has both...

There is no doubt putting a splash of white on a beautiful nose like that...you end up with a beautiful horse...at least with her face...but her body is remarkable as well IMHO.

Nice pics TTM...

She is exquisite.

[islandgirl45]

I ran across a blog titled "From Racehorse to Showhorse" and the latest post was about Zenyatta's Monday night appearance at Keeneland. I thought I'd post a link to it here because it has some great pictures of Z and her connections. I especially like the one of Mike Smith hugging her.

It's worth a read. (headline is the link)

Tuesday, December 7, 2010
A Brush With Greatness (http://racehorsetoshowhorse.blogspot.com/2010/12/brush-with-greatness.html)

EXCERPT:
"The fan reactions were like nothing I've seen before in racing. Just amazing and moving. And she continued to put on the dance. We loved it!................."


http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_72Bf5tqpIJ8/TP6udm1hLLI/AAAAAAAAAT8/V5NXoagl62E/s640/Zenyatta_12.06.2010_ww_w-9747.jpg (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_72Bf5tqpIJ8/TP6udm1hLLI/AAAAAAAAAT8/V5NXoagl62E/s1600/Zenyatta_12.06.2010_ww_w-9747.jpg)

"I was lucky I caught a brief moment where Mike Smith, her jockey, ran out to hug her goodbye.................."


http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_72Bf5tqpIJ8/TP6ukZs8KlI/AAAAAAAAAUA/7e7yimJKR24/s640/Zenyatta_12.06.2010_ww_w-9780.jpg (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_72Bf5tqpIJ8/TP6ukZs8KlI/AAAAAAAAAUA/7e7yimJKR24/s1600/Zenyatta_12.06.2010_ww_w-9780.jpg)
Mike Smith runs out to hug Zenyatta Goodbye...

[Uh-oh Bango]

Great post HR!

Agree!

[TheFlyingFilly]

We DVR'ed her retirement ceremony at HP....didn't watch it until last night. I am not sure why but I think I just didn't want it to be "final" just yet.

I cried like a baby. I can't believe that I will never, ever again see this beautiful animal run.

[moonwalker]

I'm back in Colorado, I have videos and pictures to upload, but I have to do it with the Canon software or the movies don't play right. However, the software is on the laptop, which won't recognize my camera or external hard drive. The software is not on my desktop computer, which works fine, but I can't find the disk with the files to install. Grrr!!!! And I can't find anywhere on the Canon site where I can download them. If anyone has a Canon Powershot SX120IS, I'd love some advice with what to do. (I tried to just copy and paste but the movie wouldn't play, and the Microsoft software doesn't work with it, either.)

I tried to upload a short test movie straight from the camera to YouTube, then Facebook, but it says it doesn't recognize the file type. Grrr!

Anyway... I have pretty much the whole ceremony video'ed in four or five short parts, including where Mike runs over and hugs Zenyatta, her pawing and prancing right in front of us (with a unanimous "Oooooo!" from the crowd), Ann Moss talking and crying, Jerry Moss saying thank you, etc. It's really neat stuff, which I've watched on my own camera about a dozen times now. I keep noticing stuff I don't remember from the night itself, because I was watching the horse herself so much. One thing I missed was a little moment where Zenyatta is being followed by her team, and she turns and poses just for them. Mike Smith removes the 1940's style fedora from his head and holds it over his heart reverently as he returns her look. I can't believe I missed it the first time around, but tiny Mike was so inconspicuous in his big coat and hat. He wasn't taking any attention away from Zenyatta.

Some of the people who were there Monday night had seen Zenyatta before, but I think most had not. So when she began her "dance" that most of them had only seen on TV or computer screens, it literally took breaths away. It made chills run up my spine (besides the literal chill in the air) to hear the reaction when she stopped and struck a pose.

Thanks for your thank yous. I'm still working on this missing software problem

Mary MMM

[Reposmoral]

I agree with HR's comment about where Zenyatta's "beauty" comes from--there is something about the way she is put together that I can just stare at all day. I was a casual horse racing fan a couple years ago but have been riding horses for many years. I saw a photo of Zenyatta without really knowing much about her, and was instantly struck by her build. She is a running machine. Like a greyhound.

I also happen to think that she is a beautiful, noble looking mare. "Pretty" I associate with Arabians, almost like "cute". Zenyatta seems to me to have the perfect balance of strength, refinement, ruggedness, scope...but she's still unmistakably a mare.

I mean, she just smacks you in the face when you look at her.

And believe me, I thought all of this way before she was even 14-0 or had any kind of special attachment.

[Rick1323]

Angelina Jolie beautiful.....

[Spahny]

Some of the people who were there Monday night had seen Zenyatta before, but I think most had not. So when she began her "dance" that most of them had only seen on TV or computer screens, it literally took breaths away. It made chills run up my spine (besides the literal chill in the air) to hear the reaction when she stopped and struck a pose.

Thanks for your thank yous. I'm still working on this missing software problem

Mary MMM

In one of the other posted videos of the event you can hear a woman exalting, "I touched her. I actually touched her."

I want to hear Rick say that.

Enchanting, she is. But not beguiling. Patrician yet of the people. Feminine and athletic. Maybe more of a... Katharine Hepburn?

[islandgirl45]

Angelina Jolie beautiful.....

Nah, Zenyatta only has one tattoo.

[islandgirl45]

I'm back in Colorado, I have videos and pictures to upload, but I have to do it with the Canon software or the movies don't play right. However, the software is on the laptop, which won't recognize my camera or external hard drive. The software is not on my desktop computer, which works fine, but I can't find the disk with the files to install. Grrr!!!! And I can't find anywhere on the Canon site where I can download them. If anyone has a Canon Powershot SX120IS, I'd love some advice with what to do. (I tried to just copy and paste but the movie wouldn't play, and the Microsoft software doesn't work with it, either.)

I tried to upload a short test movie straight from the camera to YouTube, then Facebook, but it says it doesn't recognize the file type. Grrr!

Anyway... I have pretty much the whole ceremony video'ed in four or five short parts, including where Mike runs over and hugs Zenyatta, her pawing and prancing right in front of us (with a unanimous "Oooooo!" from the crowd), Ann Moss talking and crying, Jerry Moss saying thank you, etc. It's really neat stuff, which I've watched on my own camera about a dozen times now. I keep noticing stuff I don't remember from the night itself, because I was watching the horse herself so much. One thing I missed was a little moment where Zenyatta is being followed by her team, and she turns and poses just for them. Mike Smith removes the 1940's style fedora from his head and holds it over his heart reverently as he returns her look. I can't believe I missed it the first time around, but tiny Mike was so inconspicuous in his big coat and hat. He wasn't taking any attention away from Zenyatta.

Some of the people who were there Monday night had seen Zenyatta before, but I think most had not. So when she began her "dance" that most of them had only seen on TV or computer screens, it literally took breaths away. It made chills run up my spine (besides the literal chill in the air) to hear the reaction when she stopped and struck a pose.

Thanks for your thank yous. I'm still working on this missing software problem

Mary MMM

Hi Mary, here's a link to the Canon software/drivers page. http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/support/consumer/digital_cameras/other_powershot/powershot_sx120_is#DriversAndSoftware

ZoomBrowser EX (Version) 6.4.1 Updater enables Windows XP users to edit MOV/AVI movies. Go down to where it says "Choose Operating System:" and pick Windows XP (assuming you are using this operating system) from the drop-down list. After that, the ZoomBrowser download links will appear.

There also are newer versions of the ZoomBrowser software on this page.
The only thing I'm not sure about is these files say "updater." I don't know if it's the full version or an update, but it would be worth a try.

If you need to download Windows Movie Maker 2.1 for Windows XP, here's the download page from Microsoft https://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/downloads/updates/moviemaker2.mspx

Hope one of these works for you.

[moonwalker]

Thanks islandgirl. Unfortunately, those are just updates and for only one of the programs I need. I spoke to someone at Canon on the phone today, and I had to order a whole new copy of the disc that originally came with the camera. It's not available for download on the site; you have to pay for a new one. Grrr...!!!! I have a sinking feeling I left the original in that motel in Hot Springs where I stayed for the Apple Blossom in April.

They said it would take 5-7 business days to get here.
If only that laptop worked right... *sigh* I think I'm going to have to reinstall the operating system. It's so buggy not even Orkin could help at this point.

Mary MMM

[moonwalker]

In one of the other posted videos of the event you can hear a woman exalting, "I touched her. I actually touched her."

I want to hear Rick say that.

Enchanting, she is. But not beguiling. Patrician yet of the people. Feminine and athletic. Maybe more of a... Katharine Hepburn?

I heard that woman say that! And I saw people reaching out and touching her down in the corner (on the far left from where Z came in.) Zenyatta was kind of tugging Mario (and later John) over toward the wall to investigate people who were reaching out, I swear. I was in the first section to the left of that path up from barn 15. I was just across from where the Mosses stood and thanked everyone for coming, and near the place where Mike Smith ran over, hugged Z, and patted Mario. At first I thought it was Chris McCarron again (he was flitting around like a sparrow) and it wasn't until later that I realized it was Mike disguised under that Dick Tracy hat.

It was a surreal experience.

Mary MMM

[Dusty]

Haskin...
http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2010/12/07/hangin-with-haskin-i-lied.aspx

[Dave in TJMex]

Although some don't like white markings, I have a soft spot for horses with lots of "chrome." . . . Then of course, there's the expressive white face of TBC's own loveable Giant Oak, who I hope to see crossing the finish line ahead of everyone next year.:)

Island Girl 45, Giant Oak Nation salutes you! :)

[Dave in TJMex]

Haskin...
http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2010/12/07/hangin-with-haskin-i-lied.aspx

Thanks for the link, Dusty. That's an excellent column.

I find myself in a similar mental/emotional place as Haskin.

[moonwalker]

Somebody posted on the Zenyatta.com website that she emailed Lane's End to ask how Zenyatta was doing, and got the following reply:



ANOTHER ANSWER TO MY E-MAIL. Lexie, one of Bill Farrish’s assistants answered my e-mail this morning at 8:32 EST. Here is her answer:

Dear Sharon,
Sarah Campion, David Ingordo’s assistant, is handling all of the inquiries regarding ZENYATTA. I can tell you that she is doing very well and is adjusting nicely to farm life. It is amazing how many people who have been touched by her and are concerned about her, but trust me, I have worked at Lane’s End for 21 years and I know that she is in one of the very best places as she begins her new career! I will pass on your note to Sarah but thank you so very much for your concern and appreciation of this great mare! She is as loved here as anywhere!
Sincerely,
Lexi Calabrese
Lane’s End Farm
P. O. Box 626
Versailles, KY 40383
(859) 873-7300
(859) 873-8969 Fax

Here is Bill Farrish’s answer from last night:

Dear Sharon,
All is good with Zenyatta. She is hand walking many times a day and adjusting to the cold Kentucky Temps. She will begin to get turned out next week. I’m sure the posts on Zenyatta.com will become more regular.


I was wondering how long it would be until a recently off the track Thoroughbred was turned out. I remember reading stories describing stallions being turned out for the first time, with men in the pasture with them to keep them from running wild into the fences.
These horses haven't been free to run around since they were yearlings (and probably not much even then, if they were bound for auction), so freedom is probably heady stuff for them.

Somebody at Keeneland Monday night said she'd probably be put under lights in the barn, to make her come into season earlier in the year to be bred. Someone else shouted out to Jerry Moss as Z walked by, "Who are you going to breed her to?" Everyone laughed, and Moss said they hadn't decided yet.

I'd love to see her romping around in the field, being a horse. Not that she hasn't been a horse all along, but I think even though she enjoys being with people, she's going to enjoy having horse companionship also. She's pretty big and confident, and I don't think the other mares are going to intimidate her. I don't think any of them did on the track, that's for sure. :-)

Mary MMM

[Dave in TJMex]

I feel sorry for Ms. Campion.

I hope that people won't be emailing every day asking how she is.

They could avoid any problems with being hassled by just posting updates every couple of days somewhere, on their own website, on Zenyatta.com, etc. Word would get out fast in the horse racing and fan kingdom worlds that that is the place to go for Z info.

[MonmouthGuy]

I feel sorry for Ms. Campion.

I hope that people won't be emailing every day asking how she is.

Agreed, but good luck with that.

She will be lucky if some F.O.Z.'s don't ask for hourly updates.

What exactly is there to update?

[PONYRCR]

Three short videos of Zenyatta at Lane's End have been posted on her FB page.

[PJMIII]

Zenyatta has that "Wow" factor, like the feeling you get when a mint condition original 60's muscle car roars by.

Thanks for posting the link to Patricia McQueen's photos, Gin.She does have "it" doesn't she.

[Dave in TJMex]

Didn't she just go there? I guess they could update every morning:

12/7/10: Zenyatta is fine this morning.
12/8/10: Zenyatta is fine this morning.
12/9/10: Zenyatta is fine this morning.

;-)

Yes! In my current state of Zenyatta-withdrawal and depression, I NEED this type of daily reassurance! :)

[Man o' Taz]

Six more pages and Zenyatta News and Rachel, Rachel, Rachel threads will be in a dead heat... ;)

[Dave in TJMex]

Six more pages and Zenyatta News and Rachel, Rachel, Rachel threads will be in a dead heat... ;)

Just as Blame supporters maintain that Z would never have gotten by Blame no matter how long the BCC race would have been, I predict that Rachel's loyal supporters on TBC will never let Z's thread "get by" Rachel's thread! :)

[islandgirl45]

Yes! In my current state of Zenyatta-withdrawal and depression, I NEED this type of daily reassurance! :)

Well, then you'll be happy to hear there's a new Diary Post #25 up at Zenyatta.com:D

Excerpt:
"...Then off to Lane’s End Farm…MY NEW HOME! We got there and the barn was all lit up. I immediately went into my new stall. My nametag was on it….as was a sign a fan made for my stall door….THE QUEEN REIGNS HERE! It was pink and the letters are in green. I gather fans have been sending me lots of gifts already. There was a Christmas stocking, carrots, peppermints and many other notes and signs waiting for me. This all makes me feel so special. My new home is beautiful. I have about 8 other friends in this barn with me. I’m sure we will become very, very close as time goes on and we get to play outside together. I can’t wait!...."

[Spahny]

A Zenyatta cam would solve it.

[MonmouthGuy]

A Zenyatta cam would solve it.

I think webcams are creepy....check that, an inanimate object can't be creepy, but the people that would watch certainly could be.

[Diver52]

I think webcams are creepy....check that, an inanimate object can't be creepy, but the people that would watch certainly could be.

That's ridiculous. I check London and UK webcams all the time for my "fix" between visits as well as Del Mar's. I loved "pandacam" when San Diego's first baby was born. We're not talking webcams as in "here, internet, watch every moment of my pathetic unattractive but iincredibly egotistical life" webcams. Or perhaps you weren't aware that there ARE other kinds?

[Psychotic Parakeet]

That's ridiculous. I check London and UK webcams all the time for my "fix" between visits as well as Del Mar's. I loved "pandacam" when San Diego's first baby was born. We're not talking webcams as in "here, internet, watch every moment of my pathetic unattractive but iincredibly egotistical life" webcams. Or perhaps you weren't aware that there ARE other kinds?

Wonder how many hits (or breakdowns) MareStare would get if they had a link to watch Zenyatta's 2012 edition enter the world?

[Spahny]

I think webcams are creepy....check that, an inanimate object can't be creepy, but the people that would watch certainly could be.


That's ridiculous. I check London and UK webcams all the time for my "fix" between visits as well as Del Mar's. I loved "pandacam" when San Diego's first baby was born. We're not talking webcams as in "here, internet, watch every moment of my pathetic unattractive but iincredibly egotistical life" webcams. Or perhaps you weren't aware that there ARE other kinds?

I thought I was joking. Forgot where I was.

[moonwalker]

There is a Gypsy Vanner horse farm in Arkansas with webcams on their mares, in several of their stalls and outside. I watched two foals being born there this spring. Pretty awesome stuff. The owners actually encouraged people to call them if they saw anything wrong with the mares. Not creepy, but helpful. They also had a guest book, and people from other countries were even checking on the mares and foals.

I can't think of the name of the farm right now, but I got the link from their Facebook page. I'm at work and can't get FB here, or I'd look it up.

Mary MMM

[moonwalker]

They could avoid any problems with being hassled by just posting updates every couple of days somewhere, on their own website, on Zenyatta.com, etc. Word would get out fast in the horse racing and fan kingdom worlds that that is the place to go for Z info.

Agree. That would be better, instead of everyone emailing and bothering Ms. Campion, Mr. Farish, or whoever. Zenyatta.com looks like the natural place to put any updates about her.

Mary MMM

[Loveabull]

Wonder how many hits (or breakdowns) MareStare would get if they had a link to watch Zenyatta's 2012 edition enter the world?

LOL Mare Stare would crash in seconds of Z going live ;)

I watched the clip of her in the new stall and thought she looked less than thrilled. She wil adapt, but at present she looked displeased ;)

[Lakeway]

Finally, an article, with picture, of Zenyatta at Lane's End. Article is titled 'Zenyatta easing into life at Lane's End':

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/national-news/2010/12/09/zenyatta-easing-into-life-at-lanes-end.aspx

In the article is a link to Facebook, which I'm not a member, but I gave it a try and was able to watch the 3 video's of her at Lane's End - yeah !!!!!


Just found another atictle at DRF, with Barbara Livingston photos:

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/national-news/2010/12/09/zenyatta-easing-into-life-at-lanes-end.aspx

[islandgirl45]

LOL Mare Stare would crash in seconds of Z going live ;)

I watched the clip of her in the new stall and thought she looked less than thrilled. She wil adapt, but at present she looked displeased ;)

That's what it looked like to me, too. She looked a bit unsettled. Like, "Who are all these strange people? Where are Mario and John?"

Shirreffs has said Z thrived on a strict daily routine. Imagine being taken out of the only life you remember and suddenly dropped on another, frigid planet. Her world has turned upside down.

[Dave in TJMex]

That's what it looked like to me, too. She looked a bit unsettled. Like, "Who are all these strange people? Where are Mario and John?"

Shirreffs has said Z thrived on a strict daily routine. Imagine being taken out of the only life you remember and suddenly dropped on another, frigid planet. Her world has turned upside down.

Its like Z was sent to Siberia.

Talk about her having to give up her recent life "cold turkey."

She doesn't have her winter coat yet, and it is 15 degrees in central Kentucky. Welcome to the cold, in "cold turkey" fashion.

Last Saturday she had 200 fans visiting her at the barn, along with all the folks working there (and horses being hot-walked in front of her). Now look at that video of what appears to be a desolate, whisper-quiet barn, with no horses being walked around, and just the camera person (at least she sounds like she loves Z, talking baby-talk to her, wanting to give him treats) and the guy handling him. Welcome to life outside the spotlight, in "cold turkey" fashion.

But here's the worst:

Look at her ears in the video.

Are her ears back (not "pinned back," just back, or at least switching from forward to back), as opposed to every other time I have ever seen her, when her ears are always pricked forward, interested in what's going on?

"Gosh," she's thinking, "I only lost that race by 4 inches and they send me to this place? I thought they loved me."

That's not a very reassuring video Lane's End posted. Hope they post one of her romping in the (snow-covered, unfortunately) fields with Life Is Sweet real soon! :)

[PJMIII]

Just as Blame supporters maintain that Z would never have gotten by Blame no matter how long the BCC race would have been, I predict that Rachel's loyal supporters on TBC will never let Z's thread "get by" Rachel's thread! :)I agree. That is a sure thing.

[islandgirl45]

Its like Z was sent to Siberia.

Talk about her having to give up her recent life "cold turkey."

She doesn't have her winter coat yet, and it is 15 degrees in central Kentucky. Welcome to the cold, in "cold turkey" fashion.

Last Saturday she had 200 fans visiting her at the barn, along with all the folks working there (and horses being hot-walked in front of her). Now look at that video of what appears to be a desolate, whisper-quiet barn, with no horses being walked around, and just the camera person (at least she sounds like she loves Z, talking baby-talk to her, wanting to give him treats) and the guy handling him. Welcome to life outside the spotlight, in "cold turkey" fashion.

But here's the worst:

Look at her ears in the video.

Are her ears back (not "pinned back," just back, or at least switching from forward to back), as opposed to every other time I have ever seen her, when her ears are always pricked forward, interested in what's going on?

"Gosh," she's thinking, "I only lost that race by 4 inches and they send me to this place? I thought they loved me."

That's not a very reassuring video Lane's End posted. Hope they post one of her romping in the (snow-covered, unfortunately) fields with Life Is Sweet real soon! :)

I know. This is a horse who thrives on lots of human companionship and people around her all the time. It appears there is relatively little of that at Lane's End, although it obviously is a fine facility. At least she'll have some company when she's able to get outside and commune with the other mares.

It's funny, Steve Haskin wrote in his last article, "Why am I worried about her being on a breeding farm without the human contact and adoring crowds that became such a major part of her life? Why do I actually feel she is going to miss John Shirreffs and Mario Espinoza and Steve Willard, and Dottie Shirreffs, and the Mosses, and everyone else who has fed her large doses of love over the years?"

[moonwalker]

Is it 12 volt? Did you leave her in the car when you went somewhere? We do alot of little trips and want our dog to be with us. But it's cold in these parts! I was thinking of some type of seat/crate warmer. Please let me know. Thanks Mary.

I have one of those 12 volt seat warmers, and I just put it on the passenger seat, covered it up with a towel, and she snoozed on it while I was driving. I have a crate for her but no warmer thingie in it. If I had to go in somewhere en route, the car stayed warm because I wasn't gone for too long. I'm more scared traveling with her in hot weather; I mostly make Indy 500 style pit stops for quick gas, "pit stops," and go through drive throughs. I put her in the crate with the car windows rolled down for air, but it gets hot in a car quickly in summer, so I have to hurry!

She's better over the years about not trying to crawl in my lap or down by my feet while I'm driving, so I let her roam free around the car a lot more. She likes to sit up in the back deck and watch semi trucks. She used to have to ride in the crate when she was younger, because she'd pester the heck out of me. She wrapped herself around my neck once while trying to negotiate getting from I-64 to I-70 in St. Louis in heavy traffic, so I stop before large cities (St. Louis and Kansas City) and put her back in her box for a while.

Of course, I pet her at stops and tell her what a beautiful and brave cat she is, and she just eats it up.

Mary MMM

[The Tin Man]

Here's the auction for Zenny's sister Balance's baby from this September ... She sold for quite a bit of dough!

The facial structure is very similar to Zenny's ... Here's to hoping for good things from him! :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qP74qgai-8

[Bandinifan06]

Here's the auction for Zenny's sister Balance's baby from this September ... She sold for quite a bit of dough!

The facial structure is very similar to Zenny's ... Here's to hoping for good things from her! :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qP74qgai-8

You mean 'he' :) He's a gorgeous colt, he was the best looking colt I seen in the sale, and he definitely had a presence about himself.

[EquineAnne]

I have one of those 12 volt seat warmers, and I just put it on the passenger seat, covered it up with a towel, and she snoozed on it while I was driving. I have a crate for her but no warmer thingie in it. If I had to go in somewhere en route, the car stayed warm because I wasn't gone for too long. I'm more scared traveling with her in hot weather; I mostly make Indy 500 style pit stops for quick gas, "pit stops," and go through drive throughs. I put her in the crate with the car windows rolled down for air, but it gets hot in a car quickly in summer, so I have to hurry!

She's better over the years about not trying to crawl in my lap or down by my feet while I'm driving, so I let her roam free around the car a lot more. She likes to sit up in the back deck and watch semi trucks. She used to have to ride in the crate when she was younger, because she'd pester the heck out of me. She wrapped herself around my neck once while trying to negotiate getting from I-64 to I-70 in St. Louis in heavy traffic, so I stop before large cities (St. Louis and Kansas City) and put her back in her box for a while.

Of course, I pet her at stops and tell her what a beautiful and brave cat she is, and she just eats it up.

Mary MMM

Thanks Mary. My baby loves her crate when in the truck. But it's really cold now and sometimes my hubby and I stop for a quick bite. I'm always fearful that she'll freeze! I saw the 12 volt warmers and was tempted . Now that I know someone has one, I may just pick one up.

[The Tin Man]

You mean 'he' :) He's a gorgeous colt, he was the best looking colt I seen in the sale, and he definitely had a presence about himself.

His price would reflect that too! Let's hope he becomes something. ;-)

Duly noted and edited Bandini ... Thanks! :becky:

[moonwalker]

Thanks Mary. My baby loves her crate when in the truck. But it's really cold now and sometimes my hubby and I stop for a quick bite. I'm always fearful that she'll freeze! I saw the 12 volt warmers and was tempted . Now that I know someone has one, I may just pick one up.

Test it out and see how hot it gets. My seat warmer gets really toasty even on low, so I was keeping the towel over it for her. I wanted to keep her warm, not cook her! LOL

Mary MMM

[breezing]

sterile, desolate, breeding facility.......i'm sure she'll be fine but she looks a bit off to me, a little somethin' going on in her back end. is she now barefoot? a little tender footed?

probably be easier to adjust if it was green and warm (at least from a "fan" perspective)........plus, with the drought in kentucky and now snow on the ground she had more green grass outside her barn in l.a. to graze on :lol:

[islandgirl45]

sterile, desolate, breeding facility.......i'm sure she'll be fine but she looks a bit off to me, a little somethin' going on in her back end. is she now barefoot? a little tender footed?

probably be easier to adjust if it was green and warm (at least from a "fan" perspective)........plus, with the drought in kentucky and now snow on the ground she had more green grass outside her barn in l.a. to graze on :lol:

I was looking at one of the videos posted on her Facebook page of her being walked outside at Lane's End and it looked like she didn't have shoes on. However, I recall a diary post on Zenyatta.com the day before she was officially retired that talked about her farrier pulling the aluminum racing plates and replacing them with steel shoes.

You can't tell whether she's wearing shoes from the videos of her parading at Keeneland, although Mary or someone else who was there might be able to shed light on that.

On another topic...60 Minutes apparently filmed some of her retirement ceremony at Hollywood Park and supposedly followed her to Lane's End, so I'm guessing that footage should air this Sunday, 12/12.

[daisy]

Nobody at the breeding farm wears shoes in back. VERY dangerous!

[daisy]

And she's walking on ICE. you should see *me* try to walk on ice!

[Dusty]

http://horse-racing-blog.com/?p=552

Nice Blog

[PJMIII]

http://horse-racing-blog.com/?p=552

Nice Blog
That was a nice article. Thanks for sharing.

[moonwalker]

I read this on the comments to Barbara Livingston's DRF article and was floored:

http://www.drf.com/blogs/zenyatta-reminder-celebrate-life?page=6#comments


THANK YOU for this!!! As one who has been fortunate enough to see Zenyatta several times both on and off the track, she is magic, she is other worldly and the energy around and in her is so addicting that you never want to leave it. I have a story for you--my elderly mom has macular degenerative disease and is almost blind. One of the times I was backside, I asked Shirreffs if he would sign a picture of Z that I had for my mom and told him how she is nearly blind but on Zenyatta's race days she has a little angel she grabs hold of and will not put down until Z's race over and Zenyatta is safe. We were in his office when I mentioned this. He stood up and said "wait here". I figured he had forgotten to tell someone something about the horses. He comes striding back in with something in his hand and sits in his chair. I look over his shoulder to see what he had in his hand--some of Zenyatta's mane. He worked it til he had it secure and scotch taped it in a figure 8 onto the photo where both ends of the "8" were uncovered and signed it with a very personal message to my mom. He stood up and handed it to me and said "now she can touch Zenyatta too". Needless to say I was in tears at his thoughtfulness-I knew how much it would mean to my mom. It did. She still cries when talking about it.
Zenyatta is so awe inspiring. When she looks at you, you have no doubt she is other worldly.
Thank you for this article and the beautiful pictures. Horse racing missed such a great opportunity in Zenyatta for well over 2 years in their arguments and biases about regions or surfaces and caught on all but too late. I am thankful I didn’t miss a minute of her greatness and so grateful she was in John Shirreffs care.


Mary MMM

[TouchOfGrey]

That's not a very reassuring video Lane's End posted. Hope they post one of her romping in the (snow-covered, unfortunately) fields with Life Is Sweet real soon! :)

I don't think she looks any different than any other horse who's moved into a new barn. I'm sure she'll settle in soon.

[moonwalker]

You can't tell whether she's wearing shoes from the videos of her parading at Keeneland, although Mary or someone else who was there might be able to shed light on that.

On another topic...60 Minutes apparently filmed some of her retirement ceremony at Hollywood Park and supposedly followed her to Lane's End, so I'm guessing that footage should air this Sunday, 12/12.

I'm not sure islandgirl, but I think she was shoeless. I confess, I was too dazzled by her head carriage, her eyes, and the dapples on her sides to look for shoes. But when she passed, she didn't clip clop at all like a shoe noise. True, there was crowd noise and she was walking on rubber bricks (which had quite a bit of give -- I was bouncing around on them before she arrived), but I think she was barefoot.

Mary MMM

[Retrospectiv]

If you watch the video on Facebook where they take her for a walk outside, she pretty clearly seems to still be shod on all four feet.

[bare it all]

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/throughthelens/archive/2010/12/10/zenyatta-at-lanes-end.aspx

[Kelly Kip]

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/60293/zenyatta-adapting-smoothly-to-farm-life

[islandgirl45]

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/60293/zenyatta-adapting-smoothly-to-farm-life

Excerpt:

"...Meanwhile, people seeking information about Zenyatta are keeping Lane’s End’s phone lines busy.
“Oh Lord, it’s been amazing,” Farish said. “There have been so many calls that I don’t know the number and they’ve been nonstop since it was announced (that Zenyatta would be boarded at Lane’s End). People mainly want to come to see her and they’re from all over the country. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. She’s like a rock star....”

It seems these callers didn't realize the public doesn't know anything about her. Or, perhaps there are more people watching horse racing than some folks think.;)

[MonmouthGuy]

Excerpt:

"...Meanwhile, people seeking information about Zenyatta are keeping Lane’s End’s phone lines busy.


Poor Lane's End. They should start issuing restraining orders protecting them from these nutjobs.

This is REALLY CREEPY.

[islandgirl45]

Poor Lane's End. They should start issuing restraining orders protecting them from these nutjobs.

This is REALLY CREEPY.

What a bizarre statement. Is it "creepy" when people call Lane's End and ask to see their stallions?

No doubt "poor" Lane's End is being paid rather well to board Zenyatta. I'm sure they were thrilled to get her.

[MonmouthGuy]

What a bizarre statement. Is it "creepy" when people call Lane's End and ask to see their stallions?

No doubt "poor" Lane's End is being paid rather well to board Zenyatta. I'm sure they were thrilled to get her.

I agree that Lane's End is thrilled to have Zenyatta.

And no, it is not creepy to call and arrange an appointment for a visit to Lane's End, Three Chimneys or any other farm.

Any caller calling asking about visiting hours, tours, marketing material, etc. is completely normal and that's part of doing business for Lane's End.

It is creepy (and annoying) IMHO to flood a farm's phonelines with calls asking how a horse is doing. What do the callers expect as an answer?

[islandgirl45]

I agree that Lane's End is thrilled to have Zenyatta.

And no, it is not creepy to call and arrange an appointment for a visit to Lane's End, Three Chimneys or any other farm.

Any caller calling asking wbout visiting hours, tours, marketing material, etc. is completely normal and part of doing business for Lane's End.

It is creepy (and annoying) to flood a farm's phonelines with calls asking how a horse is doing. What do the callers expect as an answer?

Will Farish's quote doesn't say that. He said, "People mainly want to come to see her and they’re from all over the country."
In other words, they want to visit her as people do the stallions at Lane's End. Your comments reflect your narrative, not his.

[MonmouthGuy]

Will Farish's quote doesn't say that. He said, "People mainly want to come to see her and they’re from all over the country."
In other words, they want to visit her as people do the stallions at Lane's End. Your comments reflect your narrative, not his.

I apologize if I misread the quote. I had the mistaken impression that the calls were coming from stalker-types wanting to know how Zenyatta was doing.

[islandgirl45]

I apologize if I misread the quote. I had the mistaken impression that the calls were coming from stalker-types wanting to know how Zenyatta was doing.

No problem.
I suspect Lane's End's open houses next year will be much busier. I hope they have lots of parking.;)

[CarsonCity]

No problem.
I suspect Lane's End's open houses next year will be much busier. I hope they have lots of parking.;)
I seriously doubt she will be part of the open houses.

[islandgirl45]

I seriously doubt she will be part of the open houses.

It will be interesting to see how they handle her visitation days.

[Epiphany]

It will be interesting to see how they handle her visitation days.

She won't be anywhere near an open house at the stallion barn, that is for sure.
And it is no accident that they have not come up with a "plan for visitors" yet.

[islandgirl45]

She won't be anywhere near an open house at the stallion barn, that is for sure.
And it is no accident that they have not come up with a "plan for visitors" yet.

They've stated they want to get her acclimated to the new place. I imagine that could take a while. Is there a different reason you know of?

Z's connections said Lane's End would be working on a visitation plan. I didn't expect it to be in place over the holidays, but more likely sometime in early spring. What are your thoughts about the topic?

[Epiphany]

They've stated they want to get her acclimated to the new place. I imagine that could take a while. Is there a different reason you know of?

Z's connections said Lane's End would be working on a visitation plan. I didn't expect it to be in place over the holidays, but more likely sometime in early spring. What are your thoughts about the topic?

My thought is that LE will cross that bridge when they have to do so, and not until the summer when breeding season is over. Unless Ann Moss puts her on a plane back to California once she gets in foal, or if she doesn't. Then the receiving line can resume.

[islandgirl45]

My thought is that LE will cross that bridge when they have to do so, and not until the summer when breeding season is over. Unless Ann Moss puts her on a plane back to California once she gets in foal, or if she doesn't. Then the receiving line can resume.

Possibly. Although...When the time comes that they're already inviting people in for the stallions, why wouldn't they set up some visitation times for Zenyatta? They would already be geared up to accommodate visitors. I'm sure it could be managed.

[mariasmon]

Possibly. Although...When the time comes that they're already inviting people in for the stallions, why wouldn't they set up some visitation times for Zenyatta? They would already be geared up to accommodate visitors. I'm sure it could be managed.

Those are 2 totally different parts of the farm and there are 20+ other mares in Zenyatta's barn whose owners might not want a bunch of people trooping in.

[islandgirl45]

Those are 2 totally different parts of the farm and there are 20+ other mares in Zenyatta's barn whose owners might not want a bunch of people trooping in.

The large groups of visitors at Hollywood Park usually interacted with Z well outside the barn. I wouldn't expect them to be inside the barn at Lane's End, either. Everyone will just have to wait and see what they do next year.

[Epiphany]

I don't think LE allows tourists to even see the stallions til after breeding season?
And as others have noted, the mares are on a different part of the farm, and they are not set up for large crowds besides the stallion barn in terms of design and staff?

I am sure they will sort something out - once a week maybe - if she remains in residence at LE past breeding season.

[islandgirl45]

I don't think LE allows tourists to even see the stallions til after breeding season?
And as others have noted, the mares are on a different part of the farm, and they are not set up for large crowds outside of the stallion barn in terms of design and staff.

I am sure they will sort something out - once a week maybe - if she remains in residence at LE past breeding season.

The Lane's End Web site says..."Lanes End Farm hosts an open house several times a year that is open to breeders as well as the public. Please check our website for dates and times."

Perhaps they will work something out around those times. I'm sure they will let people know well ahead of time if that's the case.

[JD]

This may have been posted elsewhere, but just in case... when I was looking for the farewell videos at Keeneland, I found this one of hip 703 @ Keeneland in 2005:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MP8VFLO25Q4&feature=related

Pretty cool!

[Epiphany]

The Lane's End Web site says..."Lanes End Farm hosts an open house several times a year that is open to breeders as well as the public. Please check our website for dates and times."

Perhaps they will work something out around those times. I'm sure they will let people know well ahead of time if that's the case.

Open houses are in November and January. Breeding season is Feb. 14- July 1. They are meant for breeders, not fans. But they are always open to the public for every farm. Most unfortunately for the farms, more fans know about them in the internet age. But no one is going to make an unseemly stand at the barn door checking to see if you are a breeder. It is easier to be nice to the public and hope one or more becomes a client.

But I don't think you understand that mares have nothing to do with, nor are they often located anywhere near, stallions? Which are shown and promoted all the time to breeders - and fans alike, by some farms? I don't mean any offense to you. But whatever they set up most likely wouldn't have anything to do with the time when they want breeders to focus on the business of assessing stallions at an open house? Much less on a different part of the property that you have to enter through a different gate further down the road. (LE has more than one farm location for broodmares, too.)

[Dave in TJMex]

The large groups of visitors at Hollywood Park usually interacted with Z well outside the barn. I wouldn't expect them to be inside the barn at Lane's End, either. Everyone will just have to wait and see what they do next year.

Rumor is that Lane's End will be renting the University of Kentucky's 65,000 seat football stadium every weekend during the non-football season to allow Z's fans to see and greet her there.

They are also considering showing the birth of Zenyatta's foal live on TV. ESPN is considering buying the rights, and will arrange to show the birth live in-between two games in a college basketball doubleheader next March.

CBS, however, is planning a competitive bid of their own to show the birth of Zenyatta's foal at halftime of the NCAA men's basketball game in late March, 2011. The hangup is that CBS wants assurances from Zenyatta's representatives that they can plan the breeding of Z such that she will give birth on the night of that championship game.

[Epiphany]

Rumor is that Lane's End will be renting the University of Kentucky's 65,000 seat football stadium every weekend during the non-football season to allow Z's fans to see and greet her there.

They are also considering showing the birth of Zenyatta's foal live on TV. ESPN is considering buying the rights, and will arrange to show the birth live in-between two games in a college basketball doubleheader next March.

CBS, however, is planning a competitive bid of their own to show the birth of Zenyatta's foal at halftime of the NCAA men's basketball game in late March, 2011. The hangup is that CBS wants assurances from Zenyatta's representatives that they can plan the breeding of Z such that she will give birth on the night of that championship game.


LeBron will emcee.

[islandgirl45]

Open houses are in November and January. Breeding season is Feb. 14- July 1. They are meant for breeders, not fans. But they are always open to the public for every farm. Most unfortunately for the farms, more fans know about them in the internet age. But no one is going to make an unseemly stand at the barn door checking to see if you are a breeder. It is easier to be nice to the public and hope one or more becomes a client.

But I don't think you understand that mares have nothing to do with, nor are they often located anywhere near, stallions? Which are shown and promoted all the time to breeders - and fans alike, by some farms? I don't mean any offense to you. But whatever they set up most likely wouldn't have anything to do with the time when they want breeders to focus on the business of assessing stallions at an open house? Much less on a different part of the property that you have to enter through a different gate further down the road. (LE has more than one farm location for broodmares, too.)

Yes, Epiphany, I can read and I do understand that. My point, which seems to have been lost in this discussion, is Zenyatta's connections and Lane's End have both said they're going to try and work something out to accommodate her visitors. She isn't Joe Average Mare. She has a sizable fan base.

You know, if Lane's End is able to accommodate the huge entourage that accompanies Queen Elizabeth II whenever she stays there without interfering with the stallion breeding season and the broodmares who aren't located anywhere near the stallions, then I have faith they can work out some sort of modest visitation schedule for Z at some time during the year.

Perhaps we've just about exhausted this topic now.:rolleyes:

[Epiphany]

Yes, Epiphany, I can read and I do understand that. My point, which seems to have been lost in this discussion, is Zenyatta's connections and Lane's End have both said they're going to try and work something out to accommodate her visitors.]She isn't Joe Average Mare. She has a sizable fan base.

You know, if Lane's End is able to accommodate the huge entourage that accompanies Queen Elizabeth II whenever she stays there without interfering with the stallion breeding season and the broodmares who aren't located anywhere near the stallions, then I have faith they can work out some sort of modest visitation schedule for Z at some time during the year.

Perhaps we've just about exhausted this topic now.:rolleyes:

I am sure they will when breeding season is over if she is still there. I like that you have now moved from thinking they will host Z visitors during stallion open houses...to thinking that she compares to the Queen of England staying as a houseguest of the Farishes, a Queen who has a far smaller coterie of admirers and 'rage than Queen Z.

[islandgirl45]

Rumor is that Lane's End will be renting the University of Kentucky's 65,000 seat football stadium every weekend during the non-football season to allow Z's fans to see and greet her there.

They are also considering showing the birth of Zenyatta's foal live on TV. ESPN is considering buying the rights, and will arrange to show the birth live in-between two games in a college basketball doubleheader next March.

CBS, however, is planning a competitive bid of their own to show the birth of Zenyatta's foal at halftime of the NCAA men's basketball game in late March, 2011. The hangup is that CBS wants assurances from Zenyatta's representatives that they can plan the breeding of Z such that she will give birth on the night of that championship game.

This just in, ESPN and CBS are insisting their broadcast contracts must stipulate that Calvin Borel and Javier Castellano will be located in different states at least 500 miles apart, so they can't interfere with this unprecedented event.

[CarsonCity]

Rumor is that Lane's End will be renting the University of Kentucky's 65,000 seat football stadium every weekend during the non-football season to allow Z's fans to see and greet her there.

They are also considering showing the birth of Zenyatta's foal live on TV. ESPN is considering buying the rights, and will arrange to show the birth live in-between two games in a college basketball doubleheader next March.

CBS, however, is planning a competitive bid of their own to show the birth of Zenyatta's foal at halftime of the NCAA men's basketball game in late March, 2011. The hangup is that CBS wants assurances from Zenyatta's representatives that they can plan the breeding of Z such that she will give birth on the night of that championship game.
Perfect.

[islandgirl45]

I am sure they will when breeding season is over if she is still there. I like that you have now moved from thinking they will host Z visitors during stallion open houses...to thinking that she compares to the Queen of England, who has a far smaller coterie of admirers than Queen Z.

I think my original point is lost in the woods here. Oh well. We'll see what next year brings.

[Epiphany]

I think my original point is lost in the woods here. Oh well. We'll see what next year brings.

That's ok. I liked the reminder that LE has hosted a Queen before.

[moonwalker]

That's ok. I liked the reminder that LE has hosted a Queen before.

Maybe next time Queen E comes to visit at Lane's End, she will have her picture taken with Queen Z.

Mary MMM

[Spahny]

Soon the majority of people will turn their attention elsewhere. It won't take too long for the requests and phone calls to subside.

People came to Hollywood Park to see her because they knew she would soon be gone. Myself included. Any person with a soul that ever stood near her felt something special. They were not just wide-eyed school girls. They might have even been slightly unsure of what exactly it was that they were feeling. Whatever it is might not even be definable by us. Yet we keep trying to. That might explain why people naturally want to feel that again if given the chance. Myself included. Most will not. One moment will have to be good enough. It is for me. I'll never see her again but I once upon a time I did pet her neck and gave her a little hug. She deserved at least that much and I truly believed she understood and appreciated the attention she received. It's part of what made Zenyatta so completely unique. I think she may well understand us better than we do her.

I do know one thing. This isn't coming around again. Don't wait for it.

As long as I hear, every so often, that she is happy and thriving in her new life I am satisfied.

[Epiphany]

I bet Three Chimney's would say the Smarty Mania never let up as much as they might have thought it would (or hoped.) I am going to guess that while the current furor is bound to subside a bit, that Z's fans will continue their love affair with her. I think the Farishes knew what they were in for and decided the high profile was better for their business than not?

I don't think many farms would have had the staff to handle the side show of hosting the Queen, though. Most farms, even famous ones, are running on fumes now.

[Horse's Rear]

I do know one thing. This isn't coming around again. Don't wait for it.

I know exactly what you mean, Spahny.

At the same time, I will tell you the short form of what I told someone yesterday on this very topic: a person could very easily have said the same thing after 1972-73. Make a list of what we got from 1974-1980, and you will be very grateful for all that came after that wasn't the same. We never know when it's gonna happen or where it's going to come from, so it's good to enjoy it when you notice it.

[Lord Helpus]

CBS, however, is planning a competitive bid of their own to show the birth of Zenyatta's foal at halftime of the NCAA men's basketball game in late March, 2011. The hangup is that CBS wants assurances from Zenyatta's representatives that they can plan the breeding of Z such that she will give birth on the night of that championship game.


Queen Z is even more amazing than I knew. Only she can foal out a bebe within 3 - 4 weeks of conception!!:clap2: Mere mortal mares require 11 months -- but not Z. At this rate she could have, ummm, 4 - 5 foals a year, and still be finished by the end of breeding season!!!

[Dusty]

Soon the majority of people will turn their attention elsewhere. It won't take too long for the requests and phone calls to subside.

People came to Hollywood Park to see her because they knew she would soon be gone. Myself included. Any person with a soul that ever stood near her felt something special. They were not just wide-eyed school girls. They might have even been slightly unsure of what exactly it was that they were feeling. Whatever it is might not even be definable by us. Yet we keep trying to. That might explain why people naturally want to feel that again if given the chance. Myself included. Most will not. One moment will have to be good enough. It is for me. I'll never see her again but I once upon a time I did pet her neck and gave her a little hug. She deserved at least that much and I truly believed she understood and appreciated the attention she received. It's part of what made Zenyatta so completely unique. I think she may well understand us better than we do her.

I do know one thing. This isn't coming around again. Don't wait for it.

As long as I hear, every so often, that she is happy and thriving in her new life I am satisfied.


Me thinks it is bigger than what you describe - however I agree this was a once in a life time experience...the look - right into your eyes and the nudge of her nose on the head ( mine) the closeness you felt and the awesome power of something not describable - gentle yet powerful - all I can say is WOW - she touched me - and I am still in awe as to how she did it... but she did..I touched her ...she touched me ..never before have I experienced a horse like Zenyatta

[GinTalking]

Soon the majority of people will turn their attention elsewhere. It won't take too long for the requests and phone calls to subside.



I wouldn't bet too much on that. Ask Three Chimneys and Ghost Ridge about what it's like having Smarty Jones in your barn.

Fans these days are far more 'out there' than they used to be. Obviously the internet/forums/Facebook has opened up a whole new world ... not all of it positive I'm afraid. There are some nutjobs out there, people who I swear spend 24/7 online writing the most inane stuff about their favorites that you really wonder about what's going on in their head.

I'm a fan too and I love seeing kids making signs for horses, forming fan clubs for them, and I think it's fabulous that adults of all ages, shapes and sizes will stop on the side of the road to watch a horse. That's great stuff. But honestly, I don't want to see a 57 year old, male or female, decked out in weird clothing, screaming/practically in tears ... "Oh X, you are soooo beautiful. I love you." That used to describe a very young child and that is fun.

If you've ever been to a Friends of Barbaro event, you know what I'm talking about. And yet most here would diss the FOBs as being too far over the edge. What's the difference. This is very similar.

Whatever happened to just being a respectful fan ... standing back and admiring a horse, taking a few photos, enjoying the moment.

Read some of the comments on the Blood-Horse where Anne has posted a bunch of photos .... something about 'did she get her dapples in Kentucky because she never had them before' and 'it's mean to use a chain on her'. Seriously? These people aren't fans. They're nuts. They've probably never seen a race horse, much less seen Zenyatta. Do we really want to attract those folks to this sport? Aren't they just odd enough that one day, one of them will run into a paddock and up to a horse to give it a kiss because they love that horse so much, or jump a fence and run onto the track because they want to get closer to their favorite horse?

I see that happening at some point ... and how many people will say, "Oh this is great for the sport .... we're gaining new fans." No we're not. Racing isn't going to benefit from people like this ... they won't go to the track and they won't bet, and the farm employees probably go home every night with a new story about some crackpot who came to visit today. I'd bet on it.

We're long on crazies and short on respect these days. I wish we could take a few steps back.

[MonmouthGuy]

These people aren't fans. They're nuts. They've probably never seen a race horse, much less seen Zenyatta. Do we really want to attract those folks to this sport? Aren't they just odd enough that one day, one of them will run into a paddock and up to a horse to give it a kiss because they love that horse so much, or jump a fence and run onto the track because they want to get closer to their favorite horse?

I see that happening at some point ... and how many people will say, "Oh this is great for the sport .... we're gaining new fans." No we're not. Racing isn't going to benefit from people like this ... they won't go to the track and they won't bet, and the farm employees probably go home every night with a new story about some crackpot who came to visit today. I'd bet on it.

We're long on crazies and short on respect these days. I wish we could take a few steps back.


Well stated.

[Spahny]

I know a few people who are not horse racing fans who have visited this site and walked away with the definite impression that horse racing fans are nuts.

[The Tin Man]

I know a few people who are not horse racing fans who have visited this site and walked away with the definite impression that horse racing fans are nuts.

Unfortunately horse racing sites seems to be just as filled with vitriol as political sites ... and probably even worse.

[Ty88]

Unfortunately horse racing sites seems to be just as filled with vitriol as political sites ... and probably even worse.

I like it. It takes me back to the ring when I was a kid. Multiple discipline training on a giant ranch, that's how I spent my summers. We competed. If somebody said a low word against my horse they'd be in the dirt with my fist in their face. Made great friends with the other girls, made better friends with the two horses I had during that time. And the girl friends would suffer before the horse friends did.
Yes, I am one of those people hanging off the rail at racetracks who will talk about almost anything with you, but if we get to trading old racing stories and you insult one of my boys or girls, beware.
:evil:

[The Tin Man]

I like it. It takes me back to the ring when I was a kid. Multiple discipline training on a giant ranch, that's how I spent my summers. We competed. If somebody said a low word against my horse they'd be in the dirt with my fist in their face. Made great friends with the other girls, made better friends with the two horses I had during that time. And the girl friends would suffer before the horse friends did.
Yes, I am one of those people hanging off the rail at racetracks who will talk about almost anything with you, but if we get to trading old racing stories and you insult one of my boys or girls, beware.
:evil:

Yep! That sounds like here alright! ;-)

[GinTalking]

Unfortunately horse racing sites seems to be just as filled with vitriol as political sites ... and probably even worse.

Which, to me, seems totally crazy. I only visit here because it's a form of entertainment (most of the time), but when I realize that I am in the middle of some kind of insane argument, I close up the site and walk away for few days. Arguing with someone, particularly someone I don't know, doesn't appeal to me. I argue with people I know maybe once every three months so this place is a challenge for me. LOL

That said, at least on a political forum, presumably one is arguing for or against something that affects them directly ... in their lives, in their pockets, every day. I understand that. Having seen how violent people get around here in the politics forum, I can see how wild it might get on a forum where that's all they talk about.

But the stuff that goes on here, I don't get at all. It's a HORSE. It's HORSE RACING. It's not life and death ... well, for a lot of us it IS "life" to a degree in that we either make our living in it or are involved in some form of business venture ... but still, it's certainly not worth fighting about.

I find it ironic that if someone on here told me my horse wasn't very pretty, I wouldn't flinch ... but if someone tells me that I'm wrong because I have the nerve to say that a famous horse isn't pretty, then I have to defend myself over several pages. I always scratch my head and wonder ... what just happened? Did I do a poor job of writing what I thought? Did I make a typo which changed the whole meaning of the comment? Did someone completely misunderstand what I wrote? Quite possibly, all of the above.

I belonged to the Criminal Intent forum for a while, but I had to stop checking it. It was sick, sick, sick. Love the show; absolutely hated many of the weirdos who posted there. I realized, this must be all these people have going on in their lives, they are so wrapped up in the characters and plot lines.

And since the temperature is 40 degrees for the first time in over a week, I am going to track and talk to some real live human beings. I'll bet there's some interesting conversation going on down there these days. :becky:

[Epiphany]

I know a few people who are not horse racing fans who have visited this site and walked away with the definite impression that horse racing fans are nuts.

A effin men.

And the rest are just plain cranky.

[drjohnh]

This may have been posted elsewhere, but just in case... when I was looking for the farewell videos at Keeneland, I found this one of hip 703 @ Keeneland in 2005:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MP8VFLO25Q4&feature=related

Pretty cool!
maybe when she stares into the crowd with her ears pricked, she has just caught sight of the moss family...lol