Zenyatta News

[Noble]

I've been away from horse racing for awhile since the BCC and really couldn't care less about talking Kentucky Derby contenders. I knew this would happen once Zenyatta retired. I get bored very, very easily if nothing stimulates my mind in a way to something I've never really seen before. The sport becomes "repetition" to me. Nowadays, I'd rather play online poker on my phone. Even crunching "numbers" don't inspire me all the time. They are just "numbers." Like obligations. Do you actually FEEL anything from them?

But I just read Abigail Anderson's response to Steve Haskin a few minutes ago. WOW! Best comment I have ever read. I am going to save that. Everything from her lineage until now. Any historian or Zen fanatic (or cynic) should read it. Abigail said so much more than any of us always wanted to say. It's Christmas week and could have Goldikova or some Derby Dozen list more in our mind, and we are still addicted to drinking the Zenyatta Kool-Aid. She still crosses our mind more than any of them including Blame. Zen is my "Mona Lisa." My "nirvana." Once you reach the summit of Mt Everest, you have to go back down. My horse racing experiences sorta "peaked" with Zenyatta. Any Triple Crown attempt will now feel like child's play. Every single year, we will have our "Justin Bieber" in the spring. Many of those 3YOs will just come and go. Even if many other faster or bigger horses come along, would any of them ever stir the emotions like Zen did? Would they lack the patience of Zen if you met them? Would they put 19-0 on the line in the BC Classic with a very generous team open to old and new fans alike? Doubt it. Imagine if Zen actually traveled more? She is already popuar in Japan! I love reading the responses in Haskin's blog. These are people who saw and met other great horses. These folks aren't part of the under-30 crowd who think they know better than anyone else. I hope her cynics will finally get it and catch up to what her fans feel about all this time even if she isn't YOUR favorite. If not, oh well. You missed out on the fun at witnessing Haley's Comet. Many observers know she is special and how she pays to homage to the many greats before her. Zenyatta is the greatest horse I ever saw with my own two eyes. I said, "horse". Not racehorse. And if she isn't the "greatest" to some, she is still one of the most amazing. Back then, I used to think Secretariat was the greatest American racehorse ever. Now I believe Citation is greater, but believe Sec is one of the most talented. I remember Penny was asked why Sec is still remembered the way he is. She said, "I don't know. Maybe it's his charisma. Maybe it's his sex appeal." When you think of Marilyn Monroe or Elvis Presley, do you believe they were the most "talented" in their profession? Maybe not, but they were so ICONIC. Zen and Sec will be remembered the same way. They have "IT" that very few can put it ALL together.

As for HotY? You know they could give it to Blame and I have no qualms with it. If it helps boost his breeding fee. I like him and at least he showed up in the BCC and won. Blame is deserving. He is not a legend to me like Zen is and see him more like Awesome Again who knocked out HoF talent like Skip Away and Silver Charm in the greatest BCC field ever. The HotY title will always create quarrels no matter who is picked. Stupid politics. It has been a joke to me since Favorite Trick won it in 1997. The "better" horse doesn't always win. Rachel won it last year and hardly anyone talks about her now like Zen. I say 7 out of 10x, Zenyatta would beat Blame at various tracks and surfaces and beat or scare RA's connections even more had they faced. Zenyatta is better and will likely be more remembered more than Curlin, Rachel, and Blame. Zen is the most watched horse on YouTube. Over 100K views in many of her vids. Curlin faded in his last race with a "surface excuse" that Zen didn't need because she only lost by like 6 inches. RA never ran in any BC race and would have a hard time hitting the board in the 2009 or 2010 BCC. And Blame got dusted in NY to a horse who would finish 2nd to last in the BCC, but I know they won't hold that against him like they do with Zen in the BCC and her weaker campaign thanks to JS. Quality Road proved to me he was one of the MOST OVERRATED horses of the year thanks to his Beyers and I was wise enough to throw him out of my exotics to save money. I never like to bank on Pletcher or JV for a big race. Zen's lone loss reminds me of Native Dancer in the Ky Derby than Seattle Slew in the JC Gold Cup. All were still noble in defeat. More "luck" to the actual winner than skill. But hey, HotY is all about the work within that year. I say you can reward Blame for this "year." Zenyatta already rewarded us that we all can cherish for a "lifetime."

[moonwalker]

Read on the Zenyatta FB that Zenyatta was out rolling in the snow, being a horse at Christmas time. :-)

Attack me for being happy, if you will.

Mary MMM

[EquineAnne]

Read on the Zenyatta FB that Zenyatta was out rolling in the snow, being a horse at Christmas time. :-)

Attack me for being happy, if you will.

Mary MMM

I'm happy too Mar. Thanks for posting. Our girl makes us happy. So sue us!. LOL

[GinTalking]

There is no place you can go, live or electronic, where so many people are more obsessed with the completely meaningless act of the "gallop out" than a small town known as TBC.

I don't get it. I've never gotten it. But it seems to show up in spades, especially in the Spring as the TC prep races begin.

Well, I am clearly dumb as a box of rocks because while all my California friends were drooling over and singing the praises of Indian Charlie, I became a bigger fan of Real Quiet after the Santa Anita Derby. Absolutely loved his gallop out.

Maybe it has to do WHAT to look for in the gallop out and not just the gallop out alone.

But this should make you happy. My least favorite expression in all of racing is the ever popular jockey proclaiming, "If we'd gone around again, XXX wouldn't have caught us." Sure, okay, whatever. ;-)

[Hermes]

VN, the gallop out matters if you are looking to see how well a horse might be doing in general, and if they want to go longer.

It is all a matter of how you use the info, it only applies to the next race (if any), not the one just run. Clearly.

[EquineAnne]

Another vote for Zenyatta:

http://www.drf.com/news/zenyatta-vs-blame-steve-kleins-vote-horse-year

The key to this decision is the gravitas of each horse. Zenyatta isn’t a historically important racehorse because of Blame. Zenyatta is historically important despite the fact that Blame edged her in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Due to her remarkable consistency, Zenyatta doesn’t need any help from any rival to be remembered as being significant decades from now. Blame, on the other hand, would not stand alone very well. His historic significance is owed mostly to Zenyatta. If Zenyatta had never been born, Blame would rank as a very ordinary, unmemorable Horse of the Year.
Zenyatta deserves to be Horse of the Year in 2010, and she will have my vote.

[Dusty]

Another vote for Zenyatta:

http://www.drf.com/news/zenyatta-vs-blame-steve-kleins-vote-horse-year

The key to this decision is the gravitas of each horse. Zenyatta isn’t a historically important racehorse because of Blame. Zenyatta is historically important despite the fact that Blame edged her in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Due to her remarkable consistency, Zenyatta doesn’t need any help from any rival to be remembered as being significant decades from now. Blame, on the other hand, would not stand alone very well. His historic significance is owed mostly to Zenyatta. If Zenyatta had never been born, Blame would rank as a very ordinary, unmemorable Horse of the Year.
Zenyatta deserves to be Horse of the Year in 2010, and she will have my vote.


YES!

[MR.W]

Another vote for Zenyatta:

http://www.drf.com/news/zenyatta-vs-blame-steve-kleins-vote-horse-year

The key to this decision is the gravitas of each horse. Zenyatta isn’t a historically important racehorse because of Blame. Zenyatta is historically important despite the fact that Blame edged her in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Due to her remarkable consistency, Zenyatta doesn’t need any help from any rival to be remembered as being significant decades from now. Blame, on the other hand, would not stand alone very well. His historic significance is owed mostly to Zenyatta. If Zenyatta had never been born, Blame would rank as a very ordinary, unmemorable Horse of the Year.
Zenyatta deserves to be Horse of the Year in 2010, and she will have my vote.
Trust me on this one: NOBODY is a bigger or longer fan of Zenyatta than me. I was at the Shirreffs' barn the day after Z arrived in May "06 and continued to watch her develop for 18 months before she ever ran a race. It has been a privilege to be around such greatness and I have never taken it for granted. However for me, HOY comes down to two possibilities this year.....popularity or on the track accomplishments. Obviously Z has done more for racing this past year then any other horse by far. Is that the criteria for being voted for HOY? How about winning the most important races? It's Blame hands down. So what's it going to be? A popularity contest or actual racing? For me, well I got tired of popularity contests back in high school. So I guess you know who I would vote for. I'm still the biggest Z fan around though.:)

[EquineAnne]

Trust me on this one: NOBODY is a bigger or longer fan of Zenyatta than me. I was at the Shirreffs' barn the day after Z arrived in May "06 and continued to watch her develop for 18 months before she ever ran a race. It has been a privilege to be around such greatness and I have never taken it for granted. However for me, HOY comes down to two possibilities this year.....popularity or on the track accomplishments. Obviously Z has done more for racing this past year then any other horse by far. Is that the criteria for being voted for HOY? How about winning the most important races? It's Blame hands down. So what's it going to be? A popularity contest or actual racing? For me, well I got tired of popularity contests back in high school. So I guess you know who I would vote for. I'm still the biggest Z fan around though.:)

yeah, right.

[moonwalker]

Trust me on this one: NOBODY is a bigger or longer fan of Zenyatta than me. I was at the Shirreffs' barn the day after Z arrived in May "06 and continued to watch her develop for 18 months before she ever ran a race. It has been a privilege to be around such greatness and I have never taken it for granted. However for me, HOY comes down to two possibilities this year.....popularity or on the track accomplishments. Obviously Z has done more for racing this past year then any other horse by far. Is that the criteria for being voted for HOY? How about winning the most important races? It's Blame hands down. So what's it going to be? A popularity contest or actual racing? For me, well I got tired of popularity contests back in high school. So I guess you know who I would vote for. I'm still the biggest Z fan around though.:)

"I can't POSSIBLY be a racist, my house maid is black!"

Mary MMM

[MR.W]

yeah, right.
Just wondering....what is your comment supposed to mean? Is it that bad that I stated some actual racing facts rather than state the "feel good" stuff as my criteria as to who I would vote for.

[islandgirl45]

Everyone, we don't have to castigate people with differing opinions on this issue. Good arguments can be made for both horses.

The only thing I'd add is, it doesn't require a "popularity contest" to do so.

[susan]

Just wondering....what is your comment supposed to mean? Is it that bad that I stated some actual racing facts rather than state the "feel good" stuff as my criteria as to who I would vote for.

It isn't that black and white, and Zenyatta did have on the track accomplishments beyond the " feelgood " aspect of her being a pet and a dancing queen.

Blame ran in choicer male races against not too much in his division . His plum races were the JCGC which he lost very clearly, the Whitney in which he beat the over rated and fading miler whatsisname, and the Classic in which he benefitted by a slow 26 second third quarter and Z did not .

I will always hold that she missed in that race--rather than Blame defeated her, and I don't have unicorn wallpaper in my bedroom either .

It was a misfortume that Z's connections did not take a few more little risks, as it is my opinion that she was the equal or superior to anything running out there this year, last year, and the year before ...

[auburndee1]

For me, they were almost equal going into the Classic, (although in hind-sight, Quality Road just isn't a classic distance horse, so hmmmm.) Comes down to who ran the best race there: Blame had the better trip, Zenyatta overcame 20 lengths and traffic trouble.

And if losing the Breeder's Cup Classic means losing Horse of the Year, Zenyatta should have had that award in 2008: which strangely enough, still bothers me more than the 2009 nod to Rachel.

[MR.W]

I'm just not the type of person who looks for the excuses to base my opinions. As far as the Classic goes....putting herself over 20 lengths behind early was her choice, no one elses. To me that was her undoing = too much to make up. As far as that "over rated miler" that you mention, he was the NOW horse both on this forum and in the media for a large part of the year. Again to me, facts that should not be over looked.

[stuff]

Trust me on this one: NOBODY is a bigger or longer fan of Zenyatta than me. I was at the Shirreffs' barn the day after Z arrived in May "06 and continued to watch her develop for 18 months before she ever ran a race. It has been a privilege to be around such greatness and I have never taken it for granted. However for me, HOY comes down to two possibilities this year.....popularity or on the track accomplishments. Obviously Z has done more for racing this past year then any other horse by far. Is that the criteria for being voted for HOY? How about winning the most important races? It's Blame hands down. So what's it going to be? A popularity contest or actual racing? For me, well I got tired of popularity contests back in high school. So I guess you know who I would vote for. I'm still the biggest Z fan around though.:)

Actually HOY is supposed to be awarded to the best horse that raced during the year. Think of it like a `Best in Show' award. Zenyatta so thoroughly dominated her own division that it made her competition look weak. However Switch's performance yesterday suggest it was anything but. I suspect if St Trinians can round back into her previous form, it will further show exactly what she was up against.

Strangely, prior to BC, it was Quality Road that was being offered up as her stiffest competition for the HOY award and Blame was barely a blip on the HOY radar. The mentality of giving him the award based on a headbob is ridiculous. Almost anybody that saw that race will admit she was the best horse that day, including Blame's jockey. Its unquestionable that she will be in the HOF the first year she is eligable, yet highly doubtful he will ever be. Based on her track performance alone, she should be a lock for HOY, but if you factor in her historical marks and everything else she brought to the sport this year, to not give it to her makes this award worth nothing. She was, without a doubt, the best horse in training the past year. She is arguably, the best horse we will see for several years to come. I'm not sure that some people realize how rare it is for a horse to show up and fire every single time they are lead over. Even more rare for a late closing horse like her to find a way to win, 19 out of 20 times with the only loss being the most remarkable race of her career, only falling mere inches short...

[Hermes]

I really liked Blame's Arab type head, too, Stuff.

Hey, at least I didn't equate Z to a dog's "Best in Show" award, right?

But let me know if you need Gogo's number to ask him "who was the best horse THAT day?" WE may think it was Z, but I don't think HE thought it was. Guess it might depend on whether he has already sold his breeding right in the horse yet for 2011?

ps Blame was widely considered more likely to beat her in BCC than QR any time past August, especially at the distance and at CD. HOY was widely thought to be between any of the top four if they won the race.

[stuff]

I really liked Blame's Arab type head, too, Stuff.

Hey, at least I didn't equate Z to a dog's "Best in Show" award, right?

But let me know if you need Gogo's number to ask him "who was the best horse THAT day?"

We get it, you want everybody to think you're an insider. Yet your arrogance doesn't allow you to realize that you're making a huge fool out of yourself. I apologize if I threatened your ego when you made a ridiculous statement in another thread. Build a bridge and get over it. You're tilting at windmills here....

[Hermes]

We get it, you want everybody to think you're an insider. Yet your arrogance doesn't allow you to realize that you're making a huge fool out of yourself. I apologize if I threatened your ego when you made a ridiculous statement in another thread. Build a bridge and get over it. You're tilting at windmills here....

Oh, no I don't need anyone to think I am anything.I am much to self absorbed to care.;) But tweaking you and getting you to reveal your complete and utter lack of comprehension of the sport is too much fun!
I wonder if Blame flags his tail, too?

[susan]

I'm just not the type of person who looks for the excuses to base my opinions. As far as the Classic goes....putting herself over 20 lengths behind early was her choice, no one elses. To me that was her undoing = too much to make up. As far as that "over rated miler" that you mention, he was the NOW horse both on this forum and in the media for a large part of the year. Again to me, facts that should not be over looked.


A " now " horse may be a fact as a now horse--doesn't make it a fact that said horse is that good, nor does it make said horse able to stay .

Plenty of NOW horses are over rated--crowned prematurely as freaks and such , then time proves they are not in fact, any such thing.

" putting herself over 20 lengths behind early was her choice "--that a fact ??? Her choice to be uncomfortable early on ??? But yes, her style is to be far back, though not that far . That would be a fact, based on 20 repetitions .

We do agree that facts should not be overlooked--they weren't , because you mentioned none .

[stuff]

Oh, no I don't need anyone to think I am anything.I am much to self absorbed to care.;) But tweaking you and getting you to reveal your complete and utter lack of comprehension of the sport is too much fun!
I wonder if Blame flags his tail, too?


I'm sure he does flag is tail once he ejaculates as all stallions do.....whether they are Arabians or not.

Nice thread derail.....the only thing you're `tweaking' is something I'd likely get banned for mentioning...

[Horse's Rear]

I'm just not the type of person who looks for the excuses to base my opinions. As far as the Classic goes....putting herself over 20 lengths behind early was her choice, no one elses. To me that was her undoing = too much to make up. As far as that "over rated miler" that you mention, he was the NOW horse both on this forum and in the media for a large part of the year. Again to me, facts that should not be over looked.

I'm with you on a lot of this (though, perversely, if I second guess Mike Smith at all it would be for begining ask Zenyatta for run before she reached the backstretch--maybe, just maybe if her run had been a little shorter, it would have been a little stronger; but the bottom line there is that Blame had just enough). I have no problem with anyone who honestly believes that the better horse won that race and should be honored as the best horse of the year. I can disagree with that opinion, but still respect it.

I also wouldn't dismiss Quality Road too quickly as an overrated miler. He certainly "struggled" beyond 8f, but still managed a career record of 7 3-2-1 in G1 races of 9f+; I think his completely uncharacteristic finish in the Classic is more likely due to unsoundness than to distance limitations; and if he had run back to his best race of the year, I think we would have had a very different finish, perhaps even a different outcome.

I think, however, that Blame's record in the "open division" is open to question on grounds of company faced, which is a charge more usually levelled against Zenyatta, once you take weight into account. The only 2010 G1 winner Blame faced was Quality Road, and he needed 5 pounds to beat him in a photo; Zenyatta gave 2010 G1 winner Switch 3 pounds and beat her by daylight in the Lady's Secret. Once you get past Quality Road that Whitney field leaves something to be desired: Blame was giving his 3 pounds to Mine That Bird, who ran fifth in what was the best finish and the most inflated paycheck of his season. He was giving 8 pounds to Jardim who managed to finish behind Mine That Bird (while pocketing $15,000), after losing a condition allowance at Indiana Downs in his prior start; Zenyatta gets flack for giving 9 pounds to Saint Trinians in the Vanity. He was giving five pounds to Haynesfield, who smashed his head into the gate and ran an uncharacteristic race, and then game back and beat him soundly at level weights in their next starts. And he was giving 4 pounds to Musket Man, who earned $75,000 by finishing behind Quality Road and ahead of the rest of that field; and whose lone win on the year came in a $75K listed stake at Tampa in February. No one would want to give that race a G1 ranking based on anything except the top two finishers.

I don't really think that there is a lot for Blame to gain (and maybe something for him to lose, considering he never showed he could carry and concede weight) by emphasizing company before the Classic. But I do think he has a powerful argument by beating Zenyatta on the track.

[Hermes]

Yeah, knocking Quality Road really builds the case for Z. TBC Logic.
The horse tails off, runs an unusually bad race and ends up eased in the Classic, and we ask him to give back the Florida Derby track record, the Amsterdam track record, the Donn track record, and his Met Mile, Woodward, and 2nd place in the Whitney giving 5 lbs to the winner?

You know, if the horses were half as ill tempered as some of the posters here we'd have to geld all of them.

[Horse's Rear]

I'm not sure that some people realize how rare it is for a horse to show up and fire every single time they are lead over.

Amid all the dust and clutter, that single factor stands out for me as the most impressive. I agree with you that it is a standard that is too easily undervalued by too many.

[ct2346]

Oh, no I don't need anyone to think I am anything.I am much to self absorbed to care.;) But tweaking you and getting you to reveal your complete and utter lack of comprehension of the sport is too much fun!
I wonder if Blame flags his tail, too?

I am quite sure that you've been flagging your tail as well - for years, with no takers. (Hence the need to "weigh in" here as many times as you do). Guess we have different definitions of "too much fun."

[Hermes]

I am quite sure that you've been flagging your tail as well - for years, with no takers. (Hence the need to "weigh in" here as many times as you do). Guess we have different definitions of "too much fun."

Oh, my PAL, CT, always lurking in the TBC basement! Did Mom let you come up to see the tree this year?

[Hermes]

I'm sure he does flag is tail once he ejaculates as all stallions do.....whether they are Arabians or not.

Nice thread derail.....the only thing you're `tweaking' is something I'd likely get banned for mentioning...

Ah, I just figured out who you are. Was your old TBC handle pensioned or only good for "political" discussions?

[stuff]

Ah, I just figured out who you are. Was your old TBC handle pensioned or only good for "political" discussions?

What, on earth, are you talking about? Why are you trying to turn this discussion into some bizarre personal war?

[Hermes]

What, on earth, are you talking about? Why are you trying to turn this discussion into some bizarre personal war?

How is asking why you aren't using your previous handle a war? Tad defensive?
No worries, I don't want to derail the thread as you say. She is worthy of deference.

[auburndee1]

Obviously, Quality Road is a wonderful horse, but in all honesty, even his biggest "now" fans were debating if he could win past a mile and an 1/8.

Blame beat a terrific horse in Quality Road, but (in my opinion,) he beat a terrific miler.

[stuff]

Obviously, Quality Road is a wonderful horse, but in all honesty, even his biggest "now" fans were debating if he could win past a mile and an 1/8.

Blame beat a terrific horse in Quality Road, but (in my opinion,) he beat a terrific miler.

And prior to The Classic, the next best horse he beat was Battle Plan. While he was a classy enough horse, he clearly broke down in that race. Had that not happened, it is debatable whether or not Blame would have won that day. In my mind he wasn't even the top horse in his own division, but he was the best spotted and managed.

My point about the HOY being `Best in Show' is that Quality Road been entered in the Mile rather than the Classica and thoroughly dominated that field he would still be in the running for HOY in my mind, based on his other accomplishments. Nowhere is it written that the HOY must be a classic distance specialist on dirt. It just happens that is the `marquee' division and gets the most attention. This year the deserving winner is a distaffer.

[MR.W]

A " now " horse may be a fact as a now horse--doesn't make it a fact that said horse is that good, nor does it make said horse able to stay .

Plenty of NOW horses are over rated--crowned prematurely as freaks and such , then time proves they are not in fact, any such thing.

" putting herself over 20 lengths behind early was her choice "--that a fact ??? Her choice to be uncomfortable early on ??? But yes, her style is to be far back, though not that far . That would be a fact, based on 20 repetitions .

We do agree that facts should not be overlooked--they weren't , because you mentioned none .
Sorry, I guess our differences are because I've never tried to base my life on "woulda, coulda, shouldv'es. That won't get it done most of the time.

[Hermes]

QR would be in HOY running for ducking the Classic and Blame and Z's epic battle (aside from the fact he wouldn't have run well in Dirt Mile either based on his performance in Classic.)

I want to spot a horse in the a Gr. 3 prep on a classic weekend with everyone watching, then run in the Foster, Whitney, and JCGC so someone can tell me what the easier "spots" might have been?

Z is the right vote because of her spectacular race in the BCC to only lose be head, and because she is one of the greatest and the most consistent horses at a Gr. 1 level in modern racing history. And because she transcended a sport that can barely make a blip on the popular culture screen.

[stuff]

QR would be in HOY running for ducking the Classic and Blame and Z's epic battle (aside from the fact he wouldn't have run well in Dirt Mile either based on his performance in Classic.)

I want to spot a horse in the a Gr. 3 prep on a classic weekend with everyone watching, then run in the Foster, Whitney, and JCGC so someone can tell me what the easier "spots" might have been?

Z is the right vote because of her spectacular race in the BCC to only lose be head, and because she is one of the greatest and the most consistent horses at a Gr. 1 level in modern racing history. And because she transcended a sport that can barely make a blip on the popular culture screen.

Clearly Quality Road had an `issue' on Classic day (what WAS going on in Pletcher's barn btw...the most up and down two days ever...), but I was basing it on him actually showing up that day. I'm not saying he would have been the right vote, but an argument could have been made for him had he gone in the Mile and dominated there. It would have been a stronger one had Blame won by daylight over Zenyatta. My point being, is that had they left that horse running a mile, it shouldn't have been looked at as `ducking'. He is one of the better milers to come down the pike for a long time. They really did a disservice to him by trying to make him into something he wasn't.

If they give HOY to Blame, then it makes the rest of the year worth nothing. To my mind, The Classic as an `all in for Zenyatta and Quality Road' and I didn't give Blame much thought prior to that day as I didn't think he had done enough or beat enough going in. It seems all the rules that lost Zenyatta the HOY last year, are now being tossed out the window to deny her again this year.....

[moonwalker]

This has probably been posted elsewhere, but I agree with Claire Novak here:

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/news/story?id=5950968

A Vote for Zenyatta is a vote for Horse Racing

...suffice it to say it is the opinion here that a vote for Zenyatta is, simply put, a vote for horse racing. To recognize this kind of runner as vital to the sport's survival is common sense, not emotional gibberish as some would choose to believe. The assumption that rational, fact-based voters are those who choose Blame while those who pick Zenyatta are somehow less professional or lack understanding of the game is absurd. Here are the facts. The sport of horse racing in North America is in deep trouble precisely because of a lack of incredible contenders, those great runners who stick around long enough to develop a following. We need these horses, and we need to encourage their connections to take the risks involved to keep such horses in training past their initial seasons. These are the horses that keep racing alive.

[MonmouthGuy]

Strangely, prior to BC, it was Quality Road that was being offered up as her stiffest competition for the HOY award and Blame was barely a blip on the HOY radar....

I had FORGOTTEN how ignorant certain posters are. This statement is flat out false as all of the articles leading up to the race and the M/L odds showed.

[stuff]

This has probably been posted elsewhere, but I agree with Claire Novak here:

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/news/story?id=5950968

I agree with this, but there are those that think she doesn't deserve the award because her connections didn't take enough `risks' with her. Personally, I think that when you can keep a horse running at her level for three years and keep her sound, sharp and happy the entire time, that is an amazing accomplishment and deserves to be rewarded. They knew her best and she loved her job every single day we saw her. Who is anybody to question the choices they made to keep her that way? Its hard for people that aren't `hands on' horse people to realize how amazing that really is. This mare LOVED her job.

[susan]

Sorry, I guess our differences are because I've never tried to base my life on "woulda, coulda, shouldv'es. That won't get it done most of the time.

Me neither.

But you did Blanche and that is why it didn't work .

My posts are completely devoid of that--you tried to fob off opinion as fact--that only works in the kangaroo court of the internet, and only sometimes .

Carry on

[Uh-oh Bango]

It isn't that black and white, and Zenyatta did have on the track accomplishments beyond the " feelgood " aspect of her being a pet and a dancing queen.

Blame ran in choicer male races against not too much in his division . His plum races were the JCGC which he lost very clearly, the Whitney in which he beat the over rated and fading miler whatsisname, and the Classic in which he benefitted by a slow 26 second third quarter and Z did not .

I will always hold that she missed in that race--rather than Blame defeated her, and I don't have unicorn wallpaper in my bedroom either .

It was a misfortume that Z's connections did not take a few more little risks, as it is my opinion that she was the equal or superior to anything running out there this year, last year, and the year before ...

I agree with you on all points, although I feel kind of sorry for poor old whatsisname. Clearly, he was right about the Breeders Cup Classic the first time.

[second_glance]

The Second Race, a networking group for the retirement and placement of horses, is auctioning a package of Zenyatta memorabilia. From the FB page:


Our End of Year Zenyatta Package for auction. Includes a Zenyatta bobblehead, Mike Smith bobblehead, a Zenyatta Coloring Book that was given only to the kids in attendance on her retirement day, Zenyatta Living Legend DVD, an 8 x 10 Giclee of Zenyatta winning the 2009 Breeders Cup Classic with Mike Smith aboard, and a gorgeous 8 x 10 headshot of Zenyatta taken the week of her final retirement.

Bidding starts at $ 100.00 and we will continue to accept bids until December 31st at 9 p.m. PST. Winner must purchase the package in 3 days, or the sale will not take place. Paypal or checks accepted.

To bid send an email to thesecondrace@gmail.com we will keep everyone updated on the progress of the bidding.

All funds raised support the retired racehorses at The Second Race.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1373.snc4/164577_490549179384_102652729384_5886286_4884618_n .jpg

The FB page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Second-Race/

And their website: http://www.thesecondrace.com/

[Horse's Rear]

Another fine thread at TBC.

http://www.colectiva.tv/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/hunting-fox.gif

[BARNFOUR]

Another fine thread at TBC.

http://www.colectiva.tv/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/hunting-fox.gif

Too Funny!!!!

[Sun Devils]

The pros and cons of the resumes of both Blame and Zenyatta have been argued ad nauseum and nothing I or anyone else can say will change how anyone feels about the horse they support.

With that said, I hope the voting contingent will think with their heads (and their hearts) and provide the fans with something they have wanted for the past three years, a horse of the year trophy for Zenyatta. I know there are a lot of people who think Blame should win, but in almost every "fan poll" Zenyatta is the overwhelming choice. Zenyatta has been a catalyst for generating interest from a younger generation of people who would not give a second look at horses racing without her presence. In a year where a good argument can be made for what both horses did on the track, I think it is okay for the voters to also consider what happened off of the track as well.

[Hermes]

The pros and cons of the resumes of both Blame and Zenyatta have been argued ad nauseum and nothing I or anyone else can say will change how anyone feels about the horse they support.

With that said, I hope the voting contingent will think with their heads (and their hearts) and provide the fans with something they have wanted for the past three years, a horse of the year trophy for Zenyatta. I know there are a lot of people who think Blame should win, but in almost every "fan poll" Zenyatta is the overwhelming choice. Zenyatta has been a catalyst for generating interest from a younger generation of people who would not give a second look at horses racing without her presence. In a year where a good argument can be made for what both horses did on the track, I think it is okay for the voters to also consider what happened off of the track as well.

Well said.

And Zenyatta ran a pretty damn good race on Nov. 6, 2010, too, nothing to not vote for. Aye.

[Curlin]

Another fine thread at TBC.

http://www.colectiva.tv/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/hunting-fox.gif

You bored HR? This is the 2nd thread I've seen to which you've added this movie. Lame.

[Hermes]

John Shirreffs posted a video yesterday of Zenny gallop from Sorbonne's perspective.

http://www.youtube.com/user/jonshfs05#p/u/0/lmE_efaFZZE

[BornToWin]

Another discussion of measuring greatness in a contemporary context. Though focused on Harbinger compared to Sea The Stars (Disclaimer--count me a BIG FAN of STS), Zenyatta is included in story, as are So You Think and Goldikova.

From the Racing Post,"Harbinger remains a case of what might have been By Sam Walker 10:12AM 27 DEC 2010 "


http://www.racingpost.com/news/horse-racing/sea-the-stars-harbinger-remains-a-case-of-what-might-have-been/802256/worldclass/

"...Another wondermare in a time rich with such beasts was Zenyatta (http://www.racingpost.com/horses/horse_home.sd?horse_id=697567)and if the repeatability formula is applied to the incalculable variables like flair and character and that touch of je ne sais quoi, the Californian would score very highly.

"Ignoring all the showgirl antics and her mammoth popularity, she achieved a good deal on the track as well. She went unbeaten in her first 19 starts over four seasons, each time using that killer turn of foot, before her grand finale in the Breeders' Cup Classic, when she ran a most peculiar, yet hugely impressive race in defeat..."

[PJMIII]

John Shirreffs posted a video yesterday of Zenny gallop from Sorbonne's perspective.

http://www.youtube.com/user/jonshfs05#p/u/0/lmE_efaFZZENice video. Thanks for posting it.

[GinTalking]

Yesterday, I received an email from a friend of mine who now lives in North Carolina. We met when we both worked at Merrill Lynch in Los Angeles. Big racing fan.

She got an email from a guy who worked on the OTC trading desk and told her he thought she'd enjoy seeing the attached images. He sent her four shots of his daughters (they are clearly 40ish) visiting with Zenyatta at HP.

[JT Dancer]

http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=906756849970&oid=142579315768994&comments

Some video of Z with Pirate Queen, as well as Z enjoying lots of holiday treats.

[Hermes]

http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=906756849970&oid=142579315768994&comments

Some video of Z with Pirate Queen, as well as Z enjoying lots of holiday treats.

Nice to see her just being a normal horse in the paddock. She is so spoiled. But I might be wiling to offer a gift to the camera lady if she would mute herself when recording video of Z, too.

[islandgirl45]

http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=906756849970&oid=142579315768994&comments (http://www.facebook.com/#%21/video/video.php?v=906756849970&oid=142579315768994&comments)

Some video of Z with Pirate Queen, as well as Z enjoying lots of holiday treats.

She's quite a "people" horse, isn't she? Pirate Queen goes off to the right, and Z walks right up to investigate the person with the camera.

Hermes, I'm with you on the person who seems to be shooting and narrating several of the Lane's End videos in the barn. Something about her constant talking in that baby voice ... I wonder if Z misses the cotton in her ears.;)

[Insane Crazy]

It's slightly disconcerting for me to see her in "pet pony" mode...I mean, that's how I talk to the retirees at my instructor's farm, and ohhh how much fun it is to indulge ponies with treats! But I think of old geldings and kind schoolies when I think of that. It's almost a little hard for me to see Big Z in that mode, too.

Not that I'm one of those raging fans who wants her removed or anything, it'll just take some time for me to get used to the image, She's clearly ridiculously happy and the guys there seem to love her. What a dream!

[Hermes]

She's quite a "people" horse, isn't she? Pirate Queen goes off to the right, and Z walks right up to investigate the person with the camera.

Hermes, I'm with you on the person who seems to be shooting and narrating several of the Lane's End videos in the barn. Something about her constant talking in that baby voice ... I wonder if Z misses the cotton in her ears.;)

LOL.

[islandgirl45]

It's slightly disconcerting for me to see her in "pet pony" mode...I mean, that's how I talk to the retirees at my instructor's farm, and ohhh how much fun it is to indulge ponies with treats! But I think of old geldings and kind schoolies when I think of that. It's almost a little hard for me to see Big Z in that mode, too.

Not that I'm one of those raging fans who wants her removed or anything, it'll just take some time for me to get used to the image, She's clearly ridiculously happy and the guys there seem to love her. What a dream!


From the videos I've seen when she was in Shirreffs' barn, she was indulged quite a bit with treats there as well. Not to mention all the gifts brought by her visitors. Not sure about the baby talk, though.:)

[firehorse]

This was from November I think but I've not seen it posted http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/1011/top-10-female-race-horses-all-time/content.10.html

[Starine]

This was from November I think but I've not seen it posted http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/1011/top-10-female-race-horses-all-time/content.10.html

Rachel Alexandra at #5? Really? Ugh.

[Ty88]

Rachel Alexandra at #5? Really? Ugh.

Where would you have her?

[Starine]

Where would you have her?

Probably at #2; definitely no lower than #3. I think she certainly showed more ability than Azeri and Personal Ensign, and accomplished more than Ruffian.

But that's just my two cents.

[PJMIII]

This was from November I think but I've not seen it posted http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/1011/top-10-female-race-horses-all-time/content.10.html
Well I certainly agree with who they had ranked first.

[WesternDreamer]

Well I certainly agree with who they had ranked first.


A mare that beat males once? Though I suppose it's still more than poor Ruffian anyway...

[Hermes]

A mare that beat males once? Though I suppose it's still more than poor Ruffian anyway...

Most of those mares on that list beat males once, if at all. And not often in open older horse company.

It is clearly a modern list, though. And none of them except one won a Breeders' Cup Classic, a Breeders' Cup Distaff, and ran within a head of winning a second Breeders' Cup Classic. But then you know that. Maybe some day Z will come to the Horse Park and you can feel better about her?

[The Tin Man]

El Vino ... Zenny's work buddy is FINALLY getting a chance for his 2nd start on Thursday in the 1st race at Santa Anita ... And is in for a tag in this Maiden Claiming race ... Guess the poor guy is expendable now ... :(

Good luck to him! :)

1Gaelic Glory (KY) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=8036201&registry=T) 4/G*$50,000M E Smith (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=1770)122C O'Callaghan (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=42825)
2El Vino (KY) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=7747860&registry=T) 5/GL*$50,000V Espinoza (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=16787)122J A Shirreffs (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=38392)
3Saintly Seoul (KY) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=8082667&registry=T) 4/CL*$50,000J Talamo (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=122644)122C Gaines (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=2185)
4Reality Ride (KY) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=8015837&registry=T) 4/G$50,000J Rosario (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=109183)122B Baffert (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=83)
5Mr. Night Rider (CA) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=8028778&registry=T) 4/GL*$50,000A L Castanon (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=329)122A C Ortiz (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=15254)
6Lichtenstein (KY) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=8072360&registry=T) 4/CL*$50,000R Bejarano (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=102032)122B Baffert (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=83)

[Hermes]

El Vino ... Zenny's work buddy is FINALLY getting a chance for his 2nd start on Thursday in the 1st race at Santa Anita ... And is in for a tag in this Maiden Claiming race ... Guess the poor guy is expendable now ... :(

Good luck to him! :)

1Gaelic Glory (KY) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=8036201&registry=T) 4/G*$50,000M E Smith (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=1770)122C O'Callaghan (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=42825)
2El Vino (KY) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=7747860&registry=T) 5/GL*$50,000V Espinoza (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=16787)122J A Shirreffs (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=38392)
3Saintly Seoul (KY) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=8082667&registry=T) 4/CL*$50,000J Talamo (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=122644)122C Gaines (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=2185)
4Reality Ride (KY) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=8015837&registry=T) 4/G$50,000J Rosario (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=109183)122B Baffert (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=83)
5Mr. Night Rider (CA) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=8028778&registry=T) 4/GL*$50,000A L Castanon (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=329)122A C Ortiz (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=15254)
6Lichtenstein (KY) (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbHorseInfo.cfm?refno=8072360&registry=T) 4/CL*$50,000R Bejarano (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbJockeyInfo.cfm?eID=102032)122B Baffert (http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbTrainerInfo.cfm?eID=83)

I know a couple of pieces of him that have already been expended in the meantime.

[Diver52]

Yup, the old "first time gelding" angle. :becky:

[BornToWin]

http://blogs.courier-journal.com/racing/2011/01/02/jill-baffert-dont-overanalyze-a-few-inches/

Kudos to Jill Baffert! Great comment from a very serious horsewoman who knows the game inside and out.

[Hermes]

http://blogs.courier-journal.com/racing/2011/01/02/jill-baffert-dont-overanalyze-a-few-inches/

Kudos to Jill Baffert! Great comment from a very serious horsewoman who knows the game inside and out.

I thought it was to a large degree. She cleverly never answers Jennie's question as to who she thinks should be HOY IF that was Lucky's head victory instead of Blame. She complains that Blame was retired right after the race and suggests that prevented a rematch with Z? Hello? (Not to mention Blame's well known intended plan for retirement before the BCC - similar to Z's - was a helluva lot less disappointing than watching Lucky's owners take the money and run weeks after the BCC after claiming all year he WOULD race at age FOUR.)

I will add that maybe Mrs. Baffert should say congrats to Mr. Gomez for that stellar inside trip.

ps I now know that Jennie was editing the emails she reprinted. Nice.

[Hermes]

I was looking at Z's blog post photo today and realized that LE is grooming her paddock for her. The owners of that buddy mare are getting a sweet deal!

[Diver52]

Hermes, what do you think would have happened if the Mosses had challenged Blame to a rematch in the Clark? It might have been a smart move--Seth Hancock would almost certainly have declined, and it might have given Zenyatta some HOTY points.

[Hermes]

Hermes, what do you think would have happened if the Mosses had challenged Blame to a rematch in the Clark? It might have been a smart move--Seth Hancock would almost certainly have declined, and it might have given Zenyatta some HOTY points.

That would have been awesome.

[stuff]

Nice comments from Jill, but I wonder if she realizes that there were not 20 starters in The Classic?

[Hermes]

Nice comments from Jill, but I wonder if she realizes that there were not 20 starters in The Classic?

It's like she was having Not So Lucky flashbacks of the Derby?

[Horsebagger]

Maybe she should ask Bob about how inches matter when it comes to measuring accomplishments. (RIP Real Quiet)

In handicapping, not so definitive. In measuring who accomplished what, it makes a hell of a lot of difference.

[Hermes]

Maybe she should ask Bob about how inches matter when it comes to measuring accomplishments. (RIP Real Quiet)

In handicapping, not so definitive. In measuring who accomplished what, it makes a hell of a lot of difference.

Good post.

But based on the definition, I am still waiting to see someone explain why Affirmed won the HOY in 1978 over Seattle Slew. Who beat him by open lengths.

[Legit Campaign]

Good post.

But based on the definition, I am still waiting to see someone explain why Affirmed won the HOY in 1978 over Seattle Slew. Who beat him by open lengths.

they-the voters-felt affirmed had the more legit campaign?:sorry:

[Horse's Rear]

I am still waiting to see someone explain why Affirmed won the HOY in 1978 over Seattle Slew. Who beat him by open lengths.
It wasn't that tough a choice, actually.

Mostly, of course, that was because Seattle Slew already had one of the trophies, and it was time to give one to Affirmed. But beyond those real considerations, there was also legitimate grounds to justify it.

You begin with the fact that Affirmed's JCGC was marred by equipment failure; as great a race as that was between the 1-2 finishers, everyone was willing to draw a line through it in terms of evaluating Affirmed. The earlier loss to Seattle Slew was more significant, but it also came with the 3yo conceding a pound on the scale. Those two losses--which many thought of as one actual loss and one write-off--were the only times Affirmed finished behind horses on the season (he lost the Travers to Alydar on the DQ); and Seattle Slew had not only his loss to Exceller, but his loss to Dr. Patches, as well. And while Affirmed contested major stakes that year from March until October, Seattle Slew's stakes campaign was really only 3 months long. The fact that he did what he did after almost dying from Colitis X is one of the more amazing accomplishments by a racehorse in history, but most people had already given the title to Affirmed at the conclusion of the 3yo season before Seattle Slew started running in stakes company.

[Hermes]

It wasn't that tough a choice, actually.

Mostly, of course, that was because Seattle Slew already had one of the trophies, and it was time to give one to Affirmed. But beyond those real considerations, there was also legitimate grounds to justify it.

You begin with the fact that Affirmed's JCGC was marred by equipment failure; as great a race as that was between the 1-2 finishers, everyone was willing to draw a line through it in terms of evaluating Affirmed. The earlier loss to Seattle Slew was more significant, but it also came with the 3yo conceding a pound on the scale. Those two losses--which many thought of as one actual loss and one write-off--were the only times Affirmed finished behind horses on the season (he lost the Travers to Alydar on the DQ); and Seattle Slew had not only his loss to Exceller, but his loss to Dr. Patches, as well. And while Affirmed contested major stakes that year from March until October, Seattle Slew's stakes campaign was really only 3 months long. The fact that he did what he did after almost dying from Colitis X is one of the more amazing accomplishments by a racehorse in history, but most people had already given the title to Affirmed at the conclusion of the 3yo season before Seattle Slew started running in stakes company.

A shorter answer would have been because he won the Triple Crown.
Zenyatta is The Greatest Racemare Ever (just ask me) so she should win the nod over Blame. Who lost to his own Dr. Patches named Haynesfield.

Yes, I always drew a line thru the JCGC for Affirmed, but that does not diminish what Slew accomplished after being hounded thru fast early fractions. And Blame started this season in mid May and ran in 5 races total. And Affirmed stayed in restricted 3 yr old company for the most part, as he would as he was a 3 yr old, and I think Alydar's stellar status helped his cause, too.

That one pound on scale in the Marlboro did not account for the daylight thumping of Affirmed when Slew ran away from him in head to head competition, either.

I took no particular issue in retrospect with Affirmed winning HOY in 78, same as I will not care much 32 years from now if Blame wins in 2010. But then as you say, Seattle Slew already had his.

[JD]

Little Silver Charm (pony) is campaigning to be on The Moss' "short" list for Zenyatta:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1568239923449&set=o.113471835374378

Maybe if he sat on Indy's head! :biggrin1:

[WesternDreamer]

Maybe some day Z will come to the Horse Park and you can feel better about her?

I don't need to 'feel better' about her, I've watched her since she was an unnamed baby because I loved Balance and couldn't wait to see her little sister. I still have my earliest records of her first works, and I was excitedly telling friends about her after her maiden win. There isn't a more dedicated fan of Z than me - but I've also stayed out of the insanity and been able to remain objective. When it comes down to a modern female that's proven superior to males, more than once, at different tracks, tested under different conditions and still beating them all...I can only think of one, and her name doesn't start with Z.

[Hermes]

I don't need to 'feel better' about her, I've watched her since she was an unnamed baby because I loved Balance and couldn't wait to see her little sister. I still have my earliest records of her first works, and I was excitedly telling friends about her after her maiden win. There isn't a more dedicated fan of Z than me - but I've also stayed out of the insanity and been able to remain objective. When it comes down to a modern female that's proven superior to males, more than once, at different tracks, tested under different conditions and still beating them all...I can only think of one, and her name doesn't start with Z.

Who is it? Rachel? I have never given a filly more credit but even I cannot begin to say her competition in any of those races (two of which were 3 yr olds only) was anything to write home about, nor did it compare to the past two BCC fields. Nor did she maintain her form over two seasons, much less three.

[Starine]

I think Rachel was better than Personal Ensign but the one I really couldn't stomach was placing Azeri, who never beat males or even hit the board against them, above Rachel Alexandra. I was a big fan of Azeri, but I don't think their careers were even close.

[GinTalking]

Good post.

But based on the definition, I am still waiting to see someone explain why Affirmed won the HOY in 1978 over Seattle Slew. Who beat him by open lengths.

For the same reason Seattle Slew was the 1977 Horse of the Year. Triple Crown winners are generally awarded Horse of the Year.

[Hermes]

For the same reason Seattle Slew was the 1977 Horse of the Year. Triple Crown winners are generally awarded Horse of the Year.

Yes. That was kinda my point. An exception was made. And I know that you agree that the Greatest Racemare EVER should have a 2010 HOTY trophy, too.

[Horse's Rear]

Nah. Kincsem deserves many things, but not 2010 Horse of the Year.

[Man o' Taz]

Marion County horse primer: from Arabian to Zenyatta http://www.ocala.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=OS&Date=20110105&Category=ARTICLES&ArtNo=110109868&Ref=AR&MaxW=600&border=0 (http://www.ocala.com/article/20110105/ARTICLES/110109868/-1/news?p=4&tc=pg#) File photo
Buy photo (http://photos.ocala.com/cgi-bin/fotobroker.cgi?c=latest.htm&a=&op_by_line=contains&by_line=Filephoto&b=photo_db&s=&t=&show=3-4)
Colt - A young male horse which has not been castrated. Male horses are typically considered colts until the age of 4. The general term horse is used once a colt is older than 4. I'll Get Along, the dam of Smarty Jones, watches as her suckling colt, about


By Carlos E. Medina
Correspondent


Published: Wednesday, January 5, 2011 at 5:17 p.m.
Last Modified: Wednesday, January 5, 2011 at 9:32 p.m.
( page 4 of 4 )

Marion County claims the title of Horse Capital of the World because of its concentration and diversity of breeds and equine industries.

The thoroughbred industry has been king for a long time and continues to be a major part of the local economy, but there are growing segments which have made an impact in their own right, including the varied equestrian disciplines and Paso Fino breeding. Quarter horses of show quality also are well represented in the area and quarter horse racing prospects could grow thanks to the increased interest in establishing racing venues across Florida.

With the start of the traditional foaling season, when hundreds of foals are born in Marion County, and the subsequent breeding season, here is an A to Z primer of horse terms you, as a denizen of Horse Country, should know.
A to

Zenyatta: A 7-year-old thoroughbred mare, which won 19 consecutive races in her career and earned more than $7 million in purses. Zenyatta received her early training in Ocala at Mayberry Farm.

http://www.ocala.com/article/20110105/ARTICLES/110109868/-1/news?p=4&tc=pg

[Man o' Taz]

That would have been awesome.

Indeed.

[Horse's Rear]

Hermes, what do you think would have happened if the Mosses had challenged Blame to a rematch in the Clark? It might have been a smart move--Seth Hancock would almost certainly have declined, and it might have given Zenyatta some HOTY points.

I think it would have looked like grandstanding theatrics, trying to reverse a defeat after the final gun had sounded, especially since Hancock had not only been saying that the Classic would be Blame's final start, but that he entered the winner's circle like Apollo Creed, shouting "Ain't gonna be no rematch!"

I DO think that they should have frozen Blame out of consideration by challenging Goldikova to 8.5fT. That would have been a FAR more compelling matchup, and the winner would be a unanimous Horse of the Year. Blame could run if he wanted to, but he wouldn't want that.

[Man o' Taz]

I think it would have looked like grandstanding theatrics, trying to reverse a defeat after the final gun had sounded, especially since Hancock had not only been saying that the Classic would be Blame's final start, but that he entered the winner's circle like Apollo Creed, shouting "Ain't gonna be no rematch!"

I DO think that they should have frozen Blame out of consideration by challenging Goldikova to 8.5fT. That would have been a FAR more compelling matchup, and the winner would be a unanimous Horse of the Year. Blame could run if he wanted to, but he wouldn't want that.

That is certainly how some would have played it.

I do like the Zenyatta/Goldlikova match up...is turf really fair to Zenyatta?

[Horse's Rear]

I do like the Zenyatta/Goldlikova match up...is turf really fair to Zenyatta?
She handled both dirt and synthetic, so the third surface would not be impossible for her; while the distance would pretty well match the short end of her spectrum with the long end of Goldikova's. It would have been a challenge, and she might not have handled it, but if she had, it would have been a pretty exciting race.

[Hermes]

El Vino got up for a closing 2nd or 3rd today. I could see him sorting it out in the stretch saying to himself, "Wait, I can do this. Ain't no Zenyatta's in here!"

[islandgirl45]

El Vino got up for a closing 2nd or 3rd today. I could see him sorting it out in the stretch saying to himself, "Wait, I can do this. Ain't no Zenyatta's in here!"

He was second to Lichtenstein. El Vino put on a burst toward the end. Perhaps he would like a little more distance.

[Dusty]

Picture from www.zenyatta.com (http://www.zenyatta.com)

http://www.zenyatta.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/zskyphoto.jpeg

[Man o' Taz]

She handled both dirt and synthetic, so the third surface would not be impossible for her; while the distance would pretty well match the short end of her spectrum with the long end of Goldikova's. It would have been a challenge, and she might not have handled it, but if she had, it would have been a pretty exciting race.

I think turf or Pro Ride it would have been exciting...

After all, Twice Over and Gio Ponti handled the Pro Ride fine...that would have given Goldlikova her second race in the US...so if she won...then she would have really made a case for her to win HOTY...

[Hermes]

Her peeps are flying in to see her Sunday morning on their way to Miami.

[BornToWin]

Question--what is meant by "classic race horse"?

[EquineAnne]

Question--what is meant by "classic race horse"?

I think it means a horse that can run the "classic" distances... i.e. 1 1/4 miles. (KD Derby) The Classic races -- again, the Derby, Preakness, Belmont, etc.

[Horse's Rear]

I think it means a horse that can run the "classic" distances... i.e. 1 1/4 miles. (KD Derby) The Classic races -- again, the Derby, Preakness, Belmont, etc.

It really should be reserved for winners of a Classic race.

[Hermes]

Moss mentioned today that he will announce who she will be bred to in the next week or so.

[Rick1323]

Any word on how AP Indy is doing this season?

[Hermes]

Any word on how AP Indy is doing this season?

He is doing ok, but breeding season doesn't start for another month. They have and are accepting mares to his book. If they are checking his sperm in the meantime, they haven't said. His fertility tails off the past couple of years by April so usually whatever he's still packin', will go early.

[JT Dancer]

She has a Moneigh in the Re-run auction (and it's already reached $1,200 since this morning!)

http://cgi.ebay.com/Moneigh-ZENYATTA-Autographed-Mike-Smith-/190490197331?pt=US_Solo_Sports_Fan_Shop&hash=item2c5a19bd53

[Rick1323]

He is doing ok, but breeding season doesn't start for another month. They have and are accepting mares to his book. If they are checking his sperm in the meantime, they haven't said. His fertility tails off the past couple of years by April so usually whatever he's still packin', will go early.

Thanks. I know it is still not breeding season, but I was wondering if they were going to stand him again or not. Sounds like they will give him one more chance.

[islandgirl45]

Some interesting tidbits of information in Thursday's NY Times article by Joe Drape.

Champion Mare Seeks Perfect Mate (Never Mind the Flirtation)
https://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/14/sports/14horse.html?_r=1 (https://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/14/sports/14horse.html?_r=1)

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2011/01/14/sports/JPHORSE1/JPHORSE1-articleLarge.jpg
Luke Sharrett for The New York Times
Although Zenyatta retired with a 19-1 record, her success as a broodmare is anyone’s guess.
More Photos »
(http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2011/01/13/sports/ZENYATTA.html)
By JOE DRAPE

Published January 13, 2011

Excerpt:
"VERSAILLES, Ky. — Zenyatta has had her nails done and been visited by Capone, a teaser stallion with a not very romantic name...."

The "More Photos" link under the picure takes you to a slideshow titled "At Home With Zenyatta" with pictures of her in the barn and the field with the three other mares.
On slide 10, the caption says, "Lights in Zenyatta’s stall are left on until 10 p.m. to spur an amorous mood. She has put on about 100 pounds and is healthy. “Maybe most important of all, she has two healthy ovaries,” the Lane’s End manager Michael Cline said....."

Wow. At 1,300 pounds, isn't she likely to weigh as much as (or more than) some of the stallions?

[The Tin Man]

Some interesting tidbits of information in Thursday's NY Times article by Joe Drape.

Champion Mare Seeks Perfect Mate (Never Mind the Flirtation)
https://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/14/sports/14horse.html?_r=1 (https://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/14/sports/14horse.html?_r=1)

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2011/01/14/sports/JPHORSE1/JPHORSE1-articleLarge.jpg
Luke Sharrett for The New York Times
Although Zenyatta retired with a 19-1 record, her success as a broodmare is anyone’s guess.
More Photos »
(http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2011/01/13/sports/ZENYATTA.html)
By JOE DRAPE

Published January 13, 2011

Excerpt:
"VERSAILLES, Ky. — Zenyatta has had her nails done and been visited by Capone, a teaser stallion with a not very romantic name...."

The "More Photos" link under the picure takes you to a slideshow titled "At Home With Zenyatta" with pictures of her in the barn and the field with the three other mares.
On slide 10, the caption says, "Lights in Zenyatta’s stall are left on until 10 p.m. to spur an amorous mood. She has put on about 100 pounds and is healthy. “Maybe most important of all, she has two healthy ovaries,” the Lane’s End manager Michael Cline said....."

Wow. At 1,300 pounds, isn't she likely to weigh as much as (or more than) some of the stallions?

Heh Heh Heh ... What's SO cool is in that picture with the 3 other mares ... Take a guess who is leading the pack in the charge towards the camera ... Yep! The Alpha Female! Zenyatta!! :becky:

How a propos. :)

[islandgirl45]

Heh Heh Heh ... What's SO cool is in that picture with the 3 other mares ... Take a guess who is leading the pack in the charge towards the camera ... Yep! The Alpha Female! Zenyatta!! :becky:

How a propos. :)

I noticed that, and thought it was interesting because in a recent "diary" post Zen/Dottie wrote that John Shirreffs said Z wasn't really an "alpha horse" and he didn't see "dominating personality traits" in her while she was at the barn.

I don't know, I thought she was pretty insistent about getting her Guinness and her treats from other articles I read.;)

[The Tin Man]

I noticed that, and thought it was interesting because in a recent "diary" post Zen/Dottie wrote that John Shirreffs said Z wasn't really an "alpha horse" and he didn't see "dominating personality traits" in her while she was at the barn.

I don't know, I thought she was pretty insistent about getting her Guinness and her treats from other articles I read.;)

I think other horses can just sense it ... Not so much that she forces that on them. I just think they naturally fall in line and follow her.

Let's call her a benevolent leader ... Not a dictator. :)

[Hermes]

She has some nicks from the other mares, or at least one good one near her right shoulder.

Her leading the mares in a random run doesn't mean she is the alpha, either. It means Drape knew they had a photo of it.

[Reposmoral]

Her leading the mares in a random run doesn't mean she is the alpha, either. It means Drape knew they had a photo of it.


Maybe they just caught the moment when she blew past them all ;)

[islandgirl45]

She has some nicks from the other mares, or at least one good one near her right shoulder.

Her leading the mares in a random run doesn't mean she is the alpha, either. It means Drape knew they had a photo of it.

I don't think her size would intimidate her pasture mates. When I was a kid we used to ride at a local ranch and there was a Shetland pony named Skippy who chased the bigger horses around in the pasture and nipped at them. He was a mean little thing. Over the years, I've been told that's a Shetland pony trait. They look cute, but watch out.:evil:

[gravano]

NYTimes piece on her, her pasture mates and her possible future mate. Great slideshow.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/14/sports/14horse.html

[EquineAnne]

It's such a pleasure to see her out and about, being a horse. God bless her.

[Retrospectiv]

NYTimes piece on her, her pasture mates and her possible future mate. Great slideshow.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/14/sports/14horse.html

Posted on the page before this one ;-)

[ComicalCat]

It really should be reserved for winners of a Classic race.


There already is a phrase reserved for winners of "Classic" races...."Classic Winner." Capital C Classic.

The Classics (capital C) include: KY Derby, Preakness, Belmont, plus the European races Epsom Derby, Epsom Oaks, 1000 Guineas, 2000 Guineas, St. Leger, Irish St. Leger, Irish Derby, Irish Oaks, Irish 1000 Guineas, Irish 2000 Guineas, Prix du Jockey Club, Prix de Diane, Grand Prix de Paris, Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, Poule d'Essai des Poulains, and Poule d'Essai des Pouliches. I might be missing one or two.

The Breeders' Cup Classic is NOT considered a "Classic" race, oddly enough. And also odly enough, while the European filly counterpart races ARE considered Classic races, here in the US, the filly counterpart races are not. And just having "Classic" in the name of a races does not make it an actual "Classic" race.

Now "classic racehorse" in lowercase, indicates a horse who either competed in the Classic races or raced at the "classic" distance of 1-1/4 miles or thereabouts. It's all about the capital C.

[second_glance]

On his FB page, Haskin says he spent yesterday (I think; it was a Thursday, anyway) at LE with Zenyatta. Will post photos next week, and a full story in his next blog.

[Horse's Rear]

There already is a phrase reserved for winners of "Classic" races...."Classic Winner." Capital C Classic.

The Classics (capital C) include: KY Derby, Preakness, Belmont, plus the European races Epsom Derby, Epsom Oaks, 1000 Guineas, 2000 Guineas, St. Leger, Irish St. Leger, Irish Derby, Irish Oaks, Irish 1000 Guineas, Irish 2000 Guineas, Prix du Jockey Club, Prix de Diane, Grand Prix de Paris, Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, Poule d'Essai des Poulains, and Poule d'Essai des Pouliches. I might be missing one or two.

The Breeders' Cup Classic is NOT considered a "Classic" race, oddly enough. And also odly enough, while the European filly counterpart races ARE considered Classic races, here in the US, the filly counterpart races are not. And just having "Classic" in the name of a races does not make it an actual "Classic" race.

Now "classic racehorse" in lowercase, indicates a horse who either competed in the Classic races or raced at the "classic" distance of 1-1/4 miles or thereabouts. It's all about the capital C.

What's your frame of reference here? Is this according to Roman's dosage profile? Historically, there has been a distinction between European (Turf) Classic category and so-called "American Classic." The latter refers to 10f dirt racing under "Classic" weight of 126 pounds (9 stone). These are not--to the best of my knowledge--definitive categories, determined by some supervising agency. The terminology grew up with the St. Leger and the other 3yo "classic" races that began in England at the end of the eighteenth century as an alternative to heat racing that allowed select 3yos to begin racing early by carrying classic weight a shorter distance (12f - 16f) in a single match, rather than a series of heats (typically restricted to horses 5 and up).

[gravano]

Posted on the page before this one ;-)

Well why not. When was the last time a thoroughbred made the cover of the New York Times? :)

[Retrospectiv]

Well why not. When was the last time a thoroughbred made the cover of the New York Times? :)

Good question!
Was she the main focus of the cover, or one of those small top or bottom pics?

[gravano]

She was in the bottom fold, but that still counts!:)

[BornToWin]

Thanks for explaining background on the phrase, "classic race horse."

If the definition is limited to running in a TC race in the US, then it doesn't fit Zenyatta since she did not run in the TC races, but she ran 10F, so if it is about distance and weight, she'd be a "classic race horse", yes? How long was the race where she carried 129lbs?

Hermes, you mentioned Zenyatta has an injury on her shoulder. Did you see the cut yourself, or did you notice it in a photo? Thanks in advance.

It was refreshing to read in Joe Drape's excellent NYT, front page story that Zenyatta is healthy--inside and out.

[Retrospectiv]

Thanks for explaining background on the phrase, "classic race horse."


Hermes, you mentioned Zenyatta has an injury on her shoulder. Did you see the cut yourself, or did you notice it in a photo? Thanks in advance.



It's visable in several of the photos from the NYT article. Looks more like just a little missing hair than an 'injury'. Typical new turnout buddies stuff.

[Hermes]

It is clear as can be in the photos. Um, I called it a nick, not an injury. While it is quite common, I still think everyone at LE winces when a mare wheels and kicks the Queen or she comes in at night with a scrape.

Separate comment, I wonder if she won Horse of the Year based on all the press that is coming out.

[islandgirl45]

It is clear as can be in the photos. Um, I called it a nick, not an injury. While it is quite common, I still think everyone at LE winces when a mare wheels and kicks the Queen or she comes in at night with a scrape.

Separate comment, I wonder if she won Horse of the Year based on all the press that is coming out.

No doubt. I would guess the pasture buddies were chosen in an effort to minimize that. Can you imagine Ann Moss' face if she and Jerry came to visit Zenyatta and Z was covered in nicks and cuts? I don't think that would be a happy occasion.;)

I get the impression Jan. 13 was sort of a media day for Z, because Haskin wrote before Christmas that he would be visiting her at Lane's End on Jan. 13, and Joe Drape obviously was there as well.

As an aside, I wonder how the Lane's End folks feel about HOTY? On one hand they know the Claiborne connections, and on the other they're boarding one of the contenders.

[Hermes]

I would guess that somewhere in the deep bowels of LE, they pray she loses so that the receptionist doesn't quit on Tuesday morning when the phones melt down with congratulatory calls.:evil:

Actually on a serious note, I am pretty sure Bill Farish is a big Z fan and has been for a while, and as Chairman of the Board of the BC.

[BornToWin]

Thanks, Hermes. I didn't see anything when I looked at the pictures.

Now, I think either way, that phone bank will be hot soon. Hotter if she isn't recognized as Horse of the Year, but pretty busy either way.

"Operators ready?"
"Operators standing by, Sir!"
"Systems check?"
"Check, Sir!"
"Monitors ready?"
"Ready, Sir!"
"Code Yellow, Stand-by. Have a Good Trip."
"Yes, Sir!"

INCOMING MESSAGE. Team Zenyatta has landed. Horse of the Year. Horse for All Time.
It's IN-CRED-IBLE!!
Go Zen...yatta!

[Hermes]

Born, look at the patch of hair missing, about the size of a half dollar, on her right shoulder. You can see it in the single shot of her running in the field and between the stall bars in the shot of her in her stall. No big deal.

[BornToWin]

Oh yes, you're right. There is a scrape on her shoulder. Looks like the hair is gone, but doesn't seem like it was cut. Horsing around, eh? (groan)

Does anyone know who the person is who handled Zenyatta in sales ring when she was sold? Just curious if that person is still around and if they remember handling her so long ago.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MP8VFLO25Q4


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MP8VFLO25Q4

[JD]

She has a Moneigh in the Re-run auction (and it's already reached $1,200 since this morning!)

http://cgi.ebay.com/Moneigh-ZENYATTA-Autographed-Mike-Smith-/190490197331?pt=US_Solo_Sports_Fan_Shop&hash=item2c5a19bd53


It's currently at $3649, ending in just over 6 hours.

[Horse's Rear]

It's currently at $3649, ending in just over 6 hours.

About the time that they announce Horse of the Year.

[Hermes]

Born, that looks like Lisa, the only woman to handle horses in the Kee ring that I can recall. She was Tiznow's groom at Winstar years ago, too, but then moved to FL. Not sure what she is up to now.

[BornToWin]

Thanks again, Hermes.

Now that Moneigh. Re-Run needs to create (if it isn't already available) a set of printed greetings cards as a little fundraiser. And wouldn't you want a T shirt with your favorite Moneigh printed on the front?

Shoot, I was looking at the Quillin Leather & Tack site at the Kentucky Key Tags and thought how cool it would be to have "Zenyatta" engraved on the brass plate--give as gifts. Another little fundraiser product.

And then when the foals start showing up, there'll be additional charms and fobs to add to it. :) Horse shoes. Little bridles with a shadow roll, "Z" charms plus in time charms with the names of Zenyatta's off-spring.

Help to raise dollars for retired race horses and people.

Take The Lead, a purebred dog charity to help people in the sport facing devastating illness or tragedy, is hosting a fundraiser with a day at the races in Louisville. It was suggested they arrange a side trip to visit Zenyatta....

"Please join us for a Kentucky Celebration Saturday, March 19, 2011 downtown at the Henry Clay starting at 6:30 PM.

Take The Lead Goes to the Derby with an evening of excitement, fun, horse racing and more! An opportunity to earn fabulous prizes!

Cash bar, appetizers, dinner, silent auction and derby fun. Catering provided by the award winning - Silver Spoon/Distinctive Entertaining. Transportation will be provided from the Kentucky Expo Center and the host hotel.Buy your tickets here or call Take The Lead 1t 800-814-1123Tickets are $75 in advance.
http://www.takethelead.org/event_registration.htm

[djnorth]

One of Z's earlier Moneighs (she is prolific in many things) is featured in a Girl Power notecard set. I think they're working on them for later this year.

www.rerun.org (http://www.rerun.org)

[Irish Esprit]

I would guess that somewhere in the deep bowels of LE, they pray she loses so that the receptionist doesn't quit on Tuesday morning when the phones melt down with congratulatory calls.:evil:

Actually on a serious note, I am pretty sure Bill Farish is a big Z fan and has been for a while, and as Chairman of the Board of the BC.


796

[Noble]

First off, let me congraulate on Zenyatta's 2010 HotY. Third time's the charm. She has the CA and NY vote, and think she wins today. I congratulated Rachel about 5-6 hours before they officially annnounced it. Now if I'm proven wrong and Blame wins, congrats to him because I'm already very content on the wonderful memories Zenyatta already has given me. A breeder/owner dream come true she is. At least Blame did show up at the BCC and won which makes him just as deserving. Whoever wins, there will always be a group that will never be happy and call it injustice. Shame that such an award can divide the enjoyment for racing fans.

The cute story about not being a single lady anymore from Joe Drape had me rolling. So her puppy love crush is a horse named, Capone, eh? "Mama, I'm in love with a gangster!" ;) My money is on Zen winning HotY and A.P. Indy being her first lover. Love will definitely be in air next month on Valentine's Day. If the lucky stud is Curlin, I'm happy with it too because he is one if my favs. And nice to hear she has a new posse of mares. I've always read that mares were used in warfare because they are quieter and Zen's new clique reminds of a time when I visited a stud farm and all the mares and their foals were surrounding us for the treats. Imagine if Rachel and Zen hung out together? I told you someday they can be homegirls. Only beef has been with the fans. If you are a true horse lover, Zenyatta is hard to dislike. If she doesn't win HotY, don't blame Blame or Claiborne. Blame Shirreffs for that same campaign. With a 26ft stride, she could have been even greater as her potential was so much more. But to me, my fav moments of Zen were not really about her races. It was those little moments when she interacted with her fans and the camera. It is like Angelina Jolie. I know people who hate her and think she is crazy and a home wrecker, but people don't realize how nice she is to her fans. One of the best autograph signers out there along with George Clooney and Johnny Depp.

That's why I really have no interest with the sport this year. I find other things to argue about now. Don't care about the Derby Dozen. I'll post just a week before the race. Many of these contenders won't have much of a career afterwards. Come and go. It is all about money and breeding. The Pletcher horses feel CORPORATE. There is an isolation between fans and owners/trainers. We are all just $$ and numbers to each other. Even Santa Anita going back to dirt and hearing about the fast times, I don't care. I even shrug off comments of Z being called a "paper champion" too. I don't mind the haters just to see their jealousy. A horse like Zenyatta made me care all over again and for the many right reasons to purely love horses and the sport again. Something different. Most popular horse on YouTube. And here we are on MLK Day, and I'm still missing her charm and how she can work a crowd up. I have a dream and it was her. I still keep tabs with The Queen on Google News or YouTube about twice a month to check on her.

BTW, a much belated congrats to Steve Haskin and his blog. I meant to congrat earlier, but haven't much of the time on here. I hope he does write a book about Zenyatta. I know when he wrote those articles, it wasn't trying to attract more hits for his blog. It really came from his heart because Z brings the romanticist out of him. For a guy around the sport for over 43 years and who can convince Dr. Fager was the greatest ever, Haskin is the only writer worthy to ever write another TB Champions book about Zen. Definitely a best seller and one of his last masterpieces. If Dr. Fager was his alpha (speed demon/alpha male), then Zenyatta should be his omega (the Z, the closer). Fager was an intro to Haskin, but let the Z horse book end it. Haskin is already getting up there in age, and I don't see another charming and amazing horse to write about like Zen for a very long time (if ever).

[firehorse]

and in other news for Z today:)

People in line for their Zenyatta bobblehead at Oaklawn Park

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_w06Wujjbc

[Hermes]

Haskin's visit last week with the Big Mare.

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2011/01/18/hangin-with-haskin-visiting-zenyatta.aspx

[Retrospectiv]

I was looking as Haskins photos of Zen of his FB page. I see she has a bite mark out of her a** as well, same side as her shoulder. Doesn't look like she's the alpha in this little herd.

[JT Dancer]

The Zenyatta Moneigh auction ended yesterday with a final total of $5,611.52 for her artwork.

[Sun King]

The Zenyatta Moneigh auction ended yesterday with a final total of $5,611.52 for her artwork.

Wow. That's awesome, and for a great cause! Nice job, Z!

I love the Drape piece, it's so funny and cute.

As for who they will breed her to, I said this over and over again last year "Doesn't matter, nobody will be good enough for her". :becky:

[BornToWin]

JTD wrote: "The Zenyatta Moneigh auction ended yesterday with a final total of $5,611.52 for her artwork."

Wonderful!

Who is lucky bidder?

[CoronadosQuest]

Haskin's visit last week with the Big Mare.

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2011/01/18/hangin-with-haskin-visiting-zenyatta.aspx

Im waiting for Z's diary post about her being teased with the teaser and her other tests as a broodmare.

[moonwalker]

Born, that looks like Lisa, the only woman to handle horses in the Kee ring that I can recall. She was Tiznow's groom at Winstar years ago, too, but then moved to FL. Not sure what she is up to now.

Looked like she was working at Keeneland again in this last sale.

Mary MMM

[CoronadosQuest]

http://drf.com/blogs/2010-horse-year-zenyatta-photographic-tribute

Photographic Tribute to Zenyatta, lovely photos :)

[JD]

http://drf.com/blogs/2010-horse-year-zenyatta-photographic-tribute

Photographic Tribute to Zenyatta, lovely photos :)

Man, I can't wait until Barbara Livingston puts out a book about her. Beautiful shots! Love the one where Zenyatta is trying to eat a palm frond!

[janpal]

Man, I can't wait until Barbara Livingston puts out a book about her. Beautiful shots! Love the one where Zenyatta is trying to eat a palm frond!

GREAT PICS THANKS! Love them all, but especially the ones with her groom, the ones with her bucking, and the close-up pics of her eyes where you see in the refection a white horse and in another one, Team Zenyatta. :)

[Man o' Taz]

From Z's website...

http://www.zenyatta.com/news/diary-post-61-2

DEAR BARN 55 AND MY FANS,


WE DID IT!


YOU ARE TRULY MY DEAR FRIENDS! THANK YOU FOR BEING PART OF MY TEAM AND HELPING ME AND SUPPORTING ME EVERY SINGLE STEP OF THE WAY!


I COULD NOT BE MORE PROUD AT THIS MOMENT!


THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING!


WITH LOVE,


HUGS TO ALL!


Z


MY FANS….ARE THE BEST!

[islandgirl45]

GREAT PICS THANKS! Love them all, but especially the ones with her groom, the ones with her bucking, and the close-up pics of her eyes where you see in the refection a white horse and in another one, Team Zenyatta. :)

Too many gorgeous photos to pick just one favorite. And yet, I saw this one on her Facebook page that says everything about Team Z to me.


https://s-hphotos-snc4.fbcdn.net/hs1389.snc4/164186_139875229407400_100001547727286_237260_4109 306_n.jpg (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?op=1&view=all&subj=142579315768994&aid=-1&pid=31218925&id=1109453989&oid=142579315768994)

[firehorse]

New video posted, no sound on this one but she looks horsey happy (all that practice pawing the ground seems to come in handy in the snow) :)

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=917506801980

[Hermes]

I'd say she might be Boss Mare after all.

[stuff]

I'd say she might be Boss Mare after all.

Not surprising, she probably doesn't remember a day in her life when everybody wasn't telling her how wonderful she is. She just assumes everybody and everything are there to see her and serve her....as it should be....

[islandgirl45]

I'd say she might be Boss Mare after all.

When she walked up and started eating right in the same patch of grass as the other mare, I wondered if that was a dominant behavior. And was she "herding" one of the other mares at early on in the video?

It's funny, the other mares don't pay much attention to a camera person, but Z likes to check them out.

[Hermes]

When she walked up and started eating right in the same patch of grass as the other mare, I wondered if that was a dominant behavior. And was she "herding" one of the other mares at early on in the video?

It's funny, the other mares don't pay much attention to a camera person, but Z likes to check them out.

Yes, she is used to being engaged by humans and spoiled with treats. I am sure there was baby talk for Z if we had audio.;)

Z: "You're in my shot. Move"
Z: "Are we going in yet, I left my carrots in my stall this morning."
Z: "Pitch that voice that high again and I will EAT that camera."
Z: "What are YOU eating?"
Z: "This is my show, always my show."

[second_glance]

Yes, she is used to being engaged by humans and spoiled with treats. I am sure there was baby talk for Z if we had audio.;)

Z: "You're in my shot. Move"
Z: "Are we going in yet, I left my carrots in my stall this morning."
Z: "Pitch that voice that high again and I will EAT that camera."
Z: "What are YOU eating?"
Z: "This is my show, always my show."

LOL! You have her voice down so well. ;-)

[islandgirl45]

Yes, she is used to being engaged by humans and spoiled with treats. I am sure there was baby talk for Z if we had audio.;)

Z: "You're in my shot. Move"
Z: "Are we going in yet, I left my carrots in my stall this morning."
Z: "Pitch that voice that high again and I will EAT that camera."
Z: "What are YOU eating?"
Z: "This is my show, always my show."

:laugh:
Mercifully, the video was silent.

[BornToWin]

Looks like she might be in the middle of the herd. Once a horse moved away when she came into its space, but in another shot, two did not. Maybe the one that moved (one shot) was one who stayed in another.... hard to tell. But they aren't frantic to move away from her, and she doesn't pin her ears and threaten anyone.

She's a good girl, fitting in and getting along. A tribute to her training.

She's been a human-horse for most of her life--her social herd were people--and that bond makes her look for people, notice and attend to their movements. Shifting that attachment to her little herd is good for her since this is her life now.

She still has human attention, but not in the same way and that changes the interaction.

Being a horse among other horses. Having more control of her body in space and time--its a good thing:) She should be an attentive, caring mother.

[BornToWin]

Too many gorgeous photos to pick just one favorite. And yet, I saw this one on her Facebook page that says everything about Team Z to me.


https://s-hphotos-snc4.fbcdn.net/hs1389.snc4/164186_139875229407400_100001547727286_237260_4109 306_n.jpg (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?op=1&view=all&subj=142579315768994&aid=-1&pid=31218925&id=1109453989&oid=142579315768994)

Love this photo. Pure emotion you feel...

[Squeaky]

Any news yet on who she will be bred to?

[janpal]

Love that picture! She is such a sweet horse -- do mares with such dispositions become "boss" mares in a herd?

[Starine]

Any news yet on who she will be bred to?

Hasn't been announced yet.

[Starine]

Love that picture! She is such a sweet horse -- do mares with such dispositions become "boss" mares in a herd?

Steve Haskin quoted broodmare manager Charles Campbell:


"Obviously, she had Life is Sweet and Harmonious in the barn, but she'd never had a one on one friendship, where it's just the two of them out in a paddock," he said. "To see her go from living life on her own to having a buddy was quite a lot of fun. She was squealing while she was getting to know her new friend. We just looked for quiet mares. We didn't want any dominant mares going in there with her. We wanted to leave her and Pirate Queen together for a couple of weeks to make sure they had a real strong friendship before we put the other two with them."

[My Flag]

Hasn't been announced yet.

Diary post #63 mentioned that her family is supposed to get together for lunch this coming week and finalize the details.

[BornToWin]

So WHO among her friends is going to be on Dancing With The Stars? Mike? Mario? Or who? :pop2:

[TigerLillee]

Please excuse my laziness because I did not want to search for it.

Is there a video of them announcing that she won the Award?

I just want to hear the uproar!

[janpal]

Please excuse my laziness because I did not want to search for it.

Is there a video of them announcing that she won the Award?

I just want to hear the uproar!

I'd like to see it, too! I was out during the telecast. :)

[Hermes]

Horse of the Year announcement (not hard to find.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DktvNRBccp4

[TigerLillee]

Horse of the Year announcement (not hard to find.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DktvNRBccp4


LOL No it wasn't difficult to find! I just searched and found it too. Was going to post it but you beat me to it, Hermes. Thanks though. :-)

Good 'ol Youtube

[janpal]

Thanks for pulling it up for us, Hermes! :) I'm still in tears from the ending quote -- just beautifully said -- how I wish I could write like that!

[moonwalker]

One of Zenyatta's three pasture mates at Lane's End is a chestnut with a blaze named Sea Gull. I looked up her race record and found a video of her winning her maiden race at Churchill Downs on June 12, 2009. She came from last to first on turf, four or five wide around the turn into the stretch. The jockey was Calvin Borel.

Video (she's #3 from post 3):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pgBkr4GZMU

Chart:
http://www.equibase.com/premium/eqbPDFChartPlus.cfm?BORP=P&STYLE=EQB&DAY=D&tid=CD&dt=06/12/2009&ctry=USA&race=8

Mary MMM

[islandgirl45]

Hootie, the sorrel Quarter horse gelding who was Zenyatta's stable pony throughout her career, was donated to TROTT USA by his owner, Freddy Wilson. Now, Hootie is the TROTT "spokeshorse" to promote public awareness about ex-racehorses that are available for adoption.
http://www.horseraceinsider.com/lines-in-the-sand/comments/01232011-freddie-hootie-off-into-the-sunset
(http://www.horseraceinsider.com/lines-in-the-sand/comments/01232011-freddie-hootie-off-into-the-sunset)
The 20-year-old Hootie has his own Facebook page now, and guests who stay at Stonepine Estate can ride him on a trail ride. Here he is enjoying the good life in retirement.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hootie-Zenyattas-Pony-Horse/175877012452045?ref=ts

https://s-hphotos-snc4.fbcdn.net/hs1387.snc4/163990_175882492451497_175877012452045_388167_8238 982_n.jpg (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=394423&id=175877012452045)
Nothing like a good roll in the dirt!

[PJMIII]

Hootie, the sorrel Quarter horse gelding who was Zenyatta's stable pony throughout her career, was donated to TROTT USA by his owner, Freddy Wilson. Now, Hootie is the TROTT "spokeshorse" to promote public awareness about ex-racehorses that are available for adoption.
http://www.horseraceinsider.com/lines-in-the-sand/comments/01232011-freddie-hootie-off-into-the-sunset
(http://www.horseraceinsider.com/lines-in-the-sand/comments/01232011-freddie-hootie-off-into-the-sunset)
The 20-year-old Hootie has his own Facebook page now, and guests who stay at Stonepine Estate can ride him on a trail ride. Here he is enjoying the good life in retirement.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hootie-Zenyattas-Pony-Horse/175877012452045?ref=ts

https://s-hphotos-snc4.fbcdn.net/hs1387.snc4/163990_175882492451497_175877012452045_388167_8238 982_n.jpg (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=394423&id=175877012452045)
Nothing like a good roll in the dirt!That's great. Thanks for sharing that information.

[PONYRCR]

Does any one know what Hootie's registered name is? Also the big gray that's a pony for John Shirreffs? I heard Steve Williard say he was a son of Spectacular Bid. Just curious to see who these guys are.

[serenassong]

Hootie, the sorrel Quarter horse gelding who was Zenyatta's stable pony throughout her career, was donated to TROTT USA by his owner, Freddy Wilson. Now, Hootie is the TROTT "spokeshorse" to promote public awareness about ex-racehorses that are available for adoption.
http://www.horseraceinsider.com/lines-in-the-sand/comments/01232011-freddie-hootie-off-into-the-sunset
(http://www.horseraceinsider.com/lines-in-the-sand/comments/01232011-freddie-hootie-off-into-the-sunset)
The 20-year-old Hootie has his own Facebook page now, and guests who stay at Stonepine Estate can ride him on a trail ride. Here he is enjoying the good life in retirement.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hootie-Zenyattas-Pony-Horse/175877012452045?ref=ts

https://s-hphotos-snc4.fbcdn.net/hs1387.snc4/163990_175882492451497_175877012452045_388167_8238 982_n.jpg (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=394423&id=175877012452045)
Nothing like a good roll in the dirt!
They should all be that happy and content!

[second_glance]

Found a link to a great story by Bill Christine about Freddie Wilson on that FB page:

http://www.horseraceinsider.com/lines-in-the-sand/comments/01232011-freddie-hootie-off-into-the-sunset/#comments

Freddie "has been 69 for some time." LOL!

[PJMIII]

Found a link to a great story by Bill Christine about Freddie Wilson on that FB page:

http://www.horseraceinsider.com/lines-in-the-sand/comments/01232011-freddie-hootie-off-into-the-sunset/#comments

Freddie "has been 69 for some time." LOL!I hate to keep saying this, but that was another great story.

[Liztannica]

Does any one know what Hootie's registered name is? Also the big gray that's a pony for John Shirreffs? I heard Steve Williard say he was a son of Spectacular Bid. Just curious to see who these guys are.

The white pony is called Winston. Not sure of his registered name

[moonwalker]

I'm looking for a photographer's website. She was at Keeneland the night Zenyatta was there and took some dramatically lighted pictures, including one from the back of Mike Smith (in coat and fedora) hugging Zenyatta. She's a Kentucky photographer and also takes pictures of horse shows. I'm specifically looking for that picture of Mike and Zen.
I can't believe I didn't bookmark that site.

Thanks!
Mary MMM

[Reposmoral]

My guess is that it's either Wendy Wooley:

http://www.equisportphotos.com/search/index.mg?searchWords=zenyatta&searchType=InUser&NickName=EquiSportPhotos


or "rock and racehorses" aka Sarah K Andrew.

Go to flickr.com and search "Zenyatta".

[second_glance]

My guess is that it's either Wendy Wooley:

http://www.equisportphotos.com/search/index.mg?searchWords=zenyatta&searchType=InUser&NickName=EquiSportPhotos


or "rock and racehorses" aka Sarah K Andrew.

Go to flickr.com and search "Zenyatta".

Sarah is New Jersey-based, though.

Maybe someone from Matt Wooley's Equisport? Or was someone from Coady there?

[harvestmoon]

I'm looking for a photographer's website. She was at Keeneland the night Zenyatta was there and took some dramatically lighted pictures, including one from the back of Mike Smith (in coat and fedora) hugging Zenyatta. She's a Kentucky photographer and also takes pictures of horse shows. I'm specifically looking for that picture of Mike and Zen.
I can't believe I didn't bookmark that site.

Thanks!
Mary MMM

This?

http://www.flickr.com/photos/wendy_u/5239409499/

[moonwalker]

Wendy Wooley has a similar one from the side (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wendy_u/5239409499/) but the one I'm looking for is the back view and more of a closeup .
It's not Sarah Andrew either. I didn't see anything by this photographer on flickr.

I think she was local there in Lexington, and also did pictures of show jumping horses. She had a website with a lot of flash and slideshows on it and it was kind of difficult to find anything. I thought I first saw the link to the pictures here, so I looked all over the Zenyatta threads but didn't see anything. I looked under "equine photographers" in Lexington and still couldn't find it. I thought it might be Jennifer Munson (www.jennifermunson.com) since I thought this lady had an "M" name and she has a flash/slideshow site, but I didn't see any Zenyatta/Keeneland photos on that site.

Someone had posted it to the "Mike Smith, Jockey" page on Facebook but the maintainer of that page took off all the pictures and posts other than the ones she made.

She took other pictures that night, more closeups of Zenyatta than the standard ones you usually see of Zenyatta being walked in sort of middle distance with the crowd in the background. They were very "arty" looking photos as opposed to journalism type photos.

Mary MMM

[moonwalker]

This?

http://www.flickr.com/photos/wendy_u/5239409499/

That's very close (just posted about it) but the one I'm looking for is from the back. It's part of a series by this same mystery photographer.

Thanks for your help but I've got to keep looking.

Mary MMM

[harvestmoon]

Like this?

http://www.photosbyz.com/viewphoto.php?&albumId=359&imageId=15560&page=2&imagepos=17

[GinTalking]

Barbara was there, and Anne E. (BH) and Z (TT).

I doubt Sarah traveled to KY just for that.

[moonwalker]

Like this?

http://www.photosbyz.com/viewphoto.php?&albumId=359&imageId=15560&page=2&imagepos=17

Wow, that is VERY similar, but the one I was thinking of was more from the back. Thanks for posting!

Mary MMM

[JD]

There's a new (dancing) statue of Zenyatta done by Nina Kaiser. She did the one of John Henry at KHP:
http://www.equinesculpture.com/limited-edition-zenyatta-bronze-statue.htm

[Hermes]

There's a new (dancing) statue of Zenyatta done by Nina Kaiser. She did the one of John Henry at KHP:
http://www.equinesculpture.com/limited-edition-zenyatta-bronze-statue.htm

Santa Anita, not the Horse Park.

[horsecrazygal21]

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/breeding-news/2011/01/26/contest-name-zenyatta-bernardini-foal.aspx

[JD]

Santa Anita, not the Horse Park.

Right! Just realized I messed up there. Shelley Hunter did the John Henry sculpture at KHP, Nina Kaiser did the one at Santa Anita.

[BornToWin]

Looking at the photos again (thanks for the links!) you can see how she was polished like a show horse. Just gorgeous. That dappled coat glistens and her muscles ripple.

And it is all her.

John S. and crew cared for her so well, and brought out her best. What a good trainer and team.

[Hermes]

How can anyone not love this guy?

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/national-news/2011/01/27/five-minutes-john-shirreffs.aspx

[islandgirl45]

How can anyone not love this guy?

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/national-news/2011/01/27/five-minutes-john-shirreffs.aspx


He seems quite genuine and down to earth. Someone who cares about the horses entrusted to him. As opposed to someone else who recently was quoted as saying it's just a business.

My favorite Q & A:

Q. When you cook dinner for guests, what’s on the menu?
A. Directions to the restaurant.A man after my own heart:)

[Horsebagger]

How can anyone not love this guy?

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/national-news/2011/01/27/five-minutes-john-shirreffs.aspx

Other than being in need of a short lesson relating to hat etiquette, the guy is ok in my book.

[EquineAnne]

I believe he is a genuine person.

[Citation07]

Don't know if this has been posted. Forgive me if it has :)

http://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2011/01/bernyatta-the-worlds-newest-power-couple/70304/

[Rick1323]

How can anyone not love this guy?

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/national-news/2011/01/27/five-minutes-john-shirreffs.aspx


He is as real as they come. Anyone who wears a baseball cap with a tux has to be singing his own tune.

[GinTalking]

He is as real as they come. Anyone who wears a baseball cap with a tux has to be singing his own tune.

That's probably true of most New Hampshire natives to be honest. Nothing up there to get in the way of just being you.

[Man o' Taz]

He seems quite genuine and down to earth. Someone who cares about the horses entrusted to him. As opposed to someone else who recently was quoted as saying it's just a business.

My favorite Q & A:
A man after my own heart:)

What are you making for dinner?

Reservations... :)

[islandgirl45]

This a cute article about Zenyatta and her pasture-mates talking girl-talk late into the evening.

An imagined evening with Zenyatta and the girls (http://thehorseyset.net/7679/an-imagined-evening-with-zenyatta-and-the-girls/)

"The lights are blazing late at night in the apartment building where our four friends live. They’re enjoying a night in with a movie and some – what else? – Guinness.But Zenyatta has a little unfinished business … Imagine listening in:..."

[JD]

That's probably true of most New Hampshire natives to be honest. Nothing up there to get in the way of just being you.
Live Free or Die. Gotta love it. Thank you General Stark for that fine quote.

[islandgirl45]

Cute story about an Ohio middle school class that began following Zenyatta's career last September...

Lessons from Zenyatta
What a fifth-grade class learned by writing to a retired racehorse

January 30, 2011 - By MICHAEL D. McELWAIN
mmcelwain@reviewonline.com

EAST LIVERPOOL - The gift was more than Shari Voltz could have imagined.
Inside a large box delivered Monday were ornaments sent from the owners of racing legend Zenyatta - a now-retired champion Thoroughbred racehorse and winner of 19 consecutive races in a 20-race career...

...Back in September, Voltz told her social studies students about how horses were first introduced in the country.
"I ride, and I have an interest in racehorses," Voltz said. "I started telling them about Zenyatta because they knew I also like Secretariat - another well-known racehorse...."

http://www.reviewonline.com/page/content.detail/id/540555/Lessons-from-Zenyatta.html

[The Tin Man]

Cute story about an Ohio middle school class that began following Zenyatta's career last September...

Lessons from Zenyatta
What a fifth-grade class learned by writing to a retired racehorse

January 30, 2011 - By MICHAEL D. McELWAIN
mmcelwain@reviewonline.com

EAST LIVERPOOL - The gift was more than Shari Voltz could have imagined.
Inside a large box delivered Monday were ornaments sent from the owners of racing legend Zenyatta - a now-retired champion Thoroughbred racehorse and winner of 19 consecutive races in a 20-race career...

...Back in September, Voltz told her social studies students about how horses were first introduced in the country.
"I ride, and I have an interest in racehorses," Voltz said. "I started telling them about Zenyatta because they knew I also like Secretariat - another well-known racehorse...."

http://www.reviewonline.com/page/content.detail/id/540555/Lessons-from-Zenyatta.html


Nice article IG ... Just a damn shame the racing world took SO long to market her more broadly. Sure would have been something if these kids could have followed her racing for an entire year and kind of built their class leisure time around her races. A year plus of this class following her career could have really made horseracing a lasting thing in many of these kids lives. At least deep inside. :)

[GinTalking]

Nice article IG ... Just a damn shame the racing world took SO long to market her more broadly.

If Hollywood Park couldn't muster up more folks than they did for some of her races, then how should "the racing world" market her? Not criticizing .... just asking ....?

Look what TVG did for her (and obviously for them), but they could only do that at a track where she was running. I have some posters and a DVD they gave away when she ran.

I've never seen a track try to get people to come to the races in State A when said horse was running in State Z. What are they going to market exactly? Maybe a giveaway poster although it's tough to get people out to a race track in the East to watch her run at 7-8 p.m. when there's only simulcasting going on. At least give them the hope of seeing a horse if you are going to lure them to the track. That's just one little hurdle I see.

I seem to recall Laurel giving away a Cigar poster and he never ran at Laurel. It was just something to get people interested. Seems to me, between places like this one (TBC) and Facebook, she had/has a lot of fans. They just couldn't all get to her races.

So what would you have done if you had the position and money to do it?

[Hermes]

The problem is Z didn't travel much, like a Cigar did, and the much larger issue is she arrived when the NTRA and BC were no longer spending money on marketing as they had in the past. It is really sad that they didn't not promote her more last year. 2009 I can understand, but she was a gift in 2010.

But they didn't bother until the BC because for them it was just about waiting for her to make it to the BC, and better yet undefeated, and the immediacy of the event. Wasn't about racing as a sport. Problem is there is not an NTRA or BC marketing budget to speak of any longer, and so there was no national coordinated effort to promote her with the Mosses until she was a few weeks from retirement. All the individual tracks cared about was her race on a given day (even Cella) and they are not the A team at marketing nor do they have much $ these days.

This is a horse that resided in the LA market they so covet, was on an LA Dodger billboard! and should have been promoted as the sheer entertainment she was, and her races should have been on ESPN, and her website and blog (and I mean a video blog that JS would have happily accommodated) should have been going ALL year. Where was the social media push all year for the march to the Breeders' Cup - The Streak? There wasn't even swag to buy until the BC, or AFTER the BC. Instead it was all ad hoc, yeah, we mean to get around to it - until it was too late. Then it was just a HOY campaign that ended up working for her.

[PJMIII]

From brisnet.com

Penny Chenery will present Zenyatta's owners, Jerry and Ann Moss, with acustom trophy at Santa Anita on Saturday in honor of her receiving the inaugural Secretariat Vox Populi (Voice of the People) Award. Chenery will join the Mosses as they sign selected prints of "Racing Royalty: Secretariat and Zenyatta" from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (PST) in Santa Anita's East Paddock Gardens area. "Achievement can be measured in many ways, and fans occasionally feel a disconnect when the horses who most impacted the public are not recognized through the traditional equine awards," Chenery said. "The industry is long overdue in annually acknowledging the star horse who brings the most excitement and attention to the sport. It is my hope that the Vox Populi Award will achieve that purpose." Although Chenery selected the 2010 winner, plans are in place for a committee of both distinguished racing personalities and industry representatives to choose the annual recipient going forward, in conjunction with a national online vote.

[BornToWin]

That's probably true of most New Hampshire natives to be honest. Nothing up there to get in the way of just being you.

Gin, it says he was born in Kansas--
"Birthplace: Fort Leavenworth, Kansas"

And coming from Kansas could explain his tendency to be superstitious. Anyone who lives with the threat of massive, killing tornadoes exploding at any time, plus being a Viet veteran, learns to be alert. His baseball cap is likely more a reflection of that caution, than a statement of defiance. Add in the vulnerability of the athletes in the sport he works with and, like any coach, he knows crap happens... So keep your head low, respect those uncontrollables, and stay focused. We watched him do this when he became the media focus. He pushed that away and returned the light to the Star. He did not grandstand his training ability, and doesn't.

His choice of Giacomo winning the Derby as his best accomplishment suggests he is grounded. Everyone wants to stand at the shoulder of Genius, but recognizing and cultivating solid talent in a non-genius to accomplish the most they can, is an art.

There don't seem to be any national or international recognition awards for brilliant trainers who don't manage hundreds of horses (so to get those top win tallies), but if there were, John S. would be among the first to be considered for it. It is a different measure, more than numbers.

Anyone have a listing of Eclipse award winning trainers they could share?

[EquineAnne]

Gin, it says he was born in Kansas--
"Birthplace: Fort Leavenworth, Kansas"

And coming from Kansas could explain his tendency to be superstitious. Anyone who lives with the threat of massive, killing tornadoes exploding at any time, plus being a Viet veteran, learns to be alert. His baseball cap is likely more a reflection of that caution, than a statement of defiance. Add in the vulnerability of the athletes in the sport he works with and, like any coach, he knows crap happens... So keep your head low, respect those uncontrollables, and stay focused. We watched him do this when he became the media focus. He pushed that away and returned the light to the Star. He did not grandstand his training ability, and doesn't.

His choice of Giacomo winning the Derby as his best accomplishment suggests he is grounded. Everyone wants to stand at the shoulder of Genius, but recognizing and cultivating solid talent in a non-genius to accomplish the most they can, is an art.

There don't seem to be any national or international recognition awards for brilliant trainers who don't manage hundreds of horses (so to get those top win tallies), but if there were, John S. would be among the first to be considered for it. It is a different measure, more than numbers.

Anyone have a listing of Eclipse award winning trainers they could share?

Really nice post. Thanks.

[Horse's Rear]

There don't seem to be any national or international recognition awards for brilliant trainers who don't manage hundreds of horses (so to get those top win tallies), but if there were, John S. would be among the first to be considered for it. It is a different measure, more than numbers.
I think he'd be second.

[Horse's Rear]

The problem is Z didn't travel much, like a Cigar did, and the much larger issue is she arrived when the NTRA and BC were no longer spending money on marketing as they had in the past. It is really sad that they didn't not promote her more last year. 2009 I can understand, but she was a gift in 2010.

But they didn't bother until the BC because for them it was just about waiting for her to make it to the BC, and better yet undefeated, and the immediacy of the event. Wasn't about racing as a sport. Problem is there is not an NTRA or BC marketing budget to speak of any longer, and so there was no national coordinated effort to promote her with the Mosses until she was a few weeks from retirement. All the individual tracks cared about was her race on a given day (even Cella) and they are not the A team at marketing nor do they have much $ these days.

This is a horse that resided in the LA market they so covet, was on an LA Dodger billboard! and should have been promoted as the sheer entertainment she was, and her races should have been on ESPN, and her website and blog (and I mean a video blog that JS would have happily accommodated) should have been going ALL year. Where was the social media push all year for the march to the Breeders' Cup - The Streak? There wasn't even swag to buy until the BC, or AFTER the BC. Instead it was all ad hoc, yeah, we mean to get around to it - until it was too late. Then it was just a HOY campaign that ended up working for her.

I don't think that there is any point in this sort of conversation, because anyone who disagrees over hypotheticals has no way of convincing someone else. I'll illustrate that the simplest way I know, by pointing to the bit in bold, and commenting that if Jess Jackson hadn't backed out on Cella, the PR machine for Zenyatta would have just naturally cranked along in the wake of that race and racing would have enjoyed a PR boom all year long. Rachel was saved for the La Troienne and the world remain undisturbed by the clash of the titans.

[firehorse]

This is part II of their interview, part I is all Dr. Fager and fun to watch as well


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rLoVbLJEVA&feature=youtube_gdata

[firehorse]

Video from the Secretariat Vox Populi Award today, highlight is the Z / Pirate Queen horsey chest bump at 6:46


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=co4xV65_pzI

[janpal]

Video from the Secretariat Vox Populi Award today, highlight is the Z / Pirate Queen horsey chest bump at 6:46


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=co4xV65_pzI

Thanks for sharing! :)

[Hermes]

OMG.
Driven to Tears is the name the TT selected as the winner in the Name the Foal contest. Second track on Zenyatta Mondatta album.
Moss Eye Roll might be better.

Out of 2,000 names submitted, this is what the editors liked:


TT: The seven other finalists (in alphabetical order) were Berning Zensation, Be Zen, BZ Kneez, Sans Regrets, Tres Bien Zen, Zendini, and Zucchini.
Zendini was by far the most popular name—suggested by more than 10% of the people who commented.

[islandgirl45]

OMG.
Driven to Tears is the name the TT selected as the winner in the Name the Foal contest. Second track on Zenyatta Mondatta album.
Moss Eye Roll might be better.

Out of 2,000 names submitted, this is what the editors liked:


TT: The seven other finalists (in alphabetical order) were Berning Zensation, Be Zen, BZ Kneez, Sans Regrets, Tres Bien Zen, Zendini, and Zucchini.
Zendini was by far the most popular name—suggested by more than 10% of the people who commented.

I saw that. Couldn't believe they picked that one.
Oh, and "Zucchini?" Yeah, I can see the Mosses naming Z's foal for a squash.

[islandgirl45]

Zenyatta gets an early Valentines Day visit from a special friend. Link goes to the higher quality video.
https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=925277933570&oid=142579315768994&comments
(https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=925277933570&oid=142579315768994&comments)
(NOTE: You'll want to turn the volume down on your computer. I appreciate Lane's End posting these videos, I really do. But the background music here isn't in the background, it's OVERWHELMING and drowns out Mike Smith talking or Z nickering. Less would be more, in this case.):)

[Hermes]

Zenyatta gets an early Valentines Day visit from a special friend. Link goes to the higher quality video.
https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=925277933570&oid=142579315768994&comments
(https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=925277933570&oid=142579315768994&comments)
(NOTE: You'll want to turn the volume down on your computer. I appreciate Lane's End posting these videos, I really do. But the background music here isn't in the background, it's OVERWHELMING and drowns out Mike Smith talking or Z nickering. Less would be more, in this case.):)


Good god, someone needs to help them with audio - we either get baby talk or loud music. But nice video and great that Mike went to visit her. Mike needs to practice his mint unwrap technique in advance of next visit.-)

[Diver52]

U HAZ PEPPERMINTZ!

Thanks for posting, Islandgirl

[islandgirl45]

Good god, someone needs to help them with audio - we either get baby talk or loud music. But nice video and great that Mike went to visit her. Mike needs to practice his mint unwrap technique in advance of next visit.-)

Yeah, Z looked like she wanted to say..."Oh, for God's sake, just give them to me and let me do it!";)

[islandgirl45]

I was kinda surprised the other mares didn't come over to investigate when they noticed treats were being handed out. Maybe Z said, "He's mine, girls!":)

[Hermes]

Yeah, Z looked like she wanted to say..."Oh, for God's sake, just give them to me and let me do it!";)

And clearly, Ms. Z is the Boss and does not share as much as she claims she does;-) Wait. She is a real horse! I have rarely seen other horses not come up to the fence to get their share of treats, especially since by now they would know what they are with her around...one mare does come up beside Z and "asks" and I think the answer was "no."

[Hermes]

I was kinda surprised the other mares didn't come over to investigate when they noticed treats were being handed out. Maybe Z said, "He's mine, girls!":)

On that note I think it is a bad idea to feed a horse over the fence in a herd. It is an invitation for a kick. They do start to come over after awhile and the video cuts. In the barn Ingordo walks over to look at Z, and I have to think he might have been looking for a mark on her the way he looks at it (or it could have been mud, who knows?), and he doesn't seem concerned.

[islandgirl45]

And clearly, Ms. Z is the Boss and does not share as much as she claims she does;-) Wait. She is a real horse! I have rarely seen other horses not come up to the fence to get their share of treats, especially since by now they would know what they are with her around...one mare does come up beside Z and "asks" and I think the answer was "no."

The chestnut was STARING at Mike and Zenyatta the whole time as if she could levitate a carrot in her direction, but couldn't bring herself to move any closer. Pasture buddy dynamics, huh?

[Diver52]

"Gimme that mint, Shorty. Yeah, now that you don't have that whip I can tell you what I really think. Shorty. Shorty-Baldy, ha ha ha."

[The Tin Man]

OMG.
Driven to Tears is the name the TT selected as the winner in the Name the Foal contest. Second track on Zenyatta Mondatta album.
Moss Eye Roll might be better.

Out of 2,000 names submitted, this is what the editors liked:


TT: The seven other finalists (in alphabetical order) were Berning Zensation, Be Zen, BZ Kneez, Sans Regrets, Tres Bien Zen, Zendini, and Zucchini.
Zendini was by far the most popular name—suggested by more than 10% of the people who commented.

I LOVE Berning Zensation ... Tres Bien Zen would be my next favorite out of those. :)

[The Tin Man]

Zenyatta gets an early Valentines Day visit from a special friend. Link goes to the higher quality video.
https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=925277933570&oid=142579315768994&comments
(https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=925277933570&oid=142579315768994&comments)
(NOTE: You'll want to turn the volume down on your computer. I appreciate Lane's End posting these videos, I really do. But the background music here isn't in the background, it's OVERWHELMING and drowns out Mike Smith talking or Z nickering. Less would be more, in this case.):)


Awesome video of Mikey with her! I'm SO glad he gave her the surprise visit. They certainly seem to have quite the connection! :becky:

Seeing her draped over Mikey in the barn reminded me of my favorite pic of me with her ... Except it's reversed ... I'm draped over her! ;-)

[GinTalking]

I was kinda surprised the other mares didn't come over to investigate when they noticed treats were being handed out. Maybe Z said, "He's mine, girls!":)

Not every race horse is used to getting peppermints every day. My mare is 12. She never had the first peppermint when she was running and it's only been in the last couple of years that she decided she likes them.

[mariasmon]

The Joneses fed Proud Spell sweet potatoes. I'm sure most racehorses have no clue about them. But PS's pasture buddy learned to love them because people were always bringing them to PS. So I *am* surprised Z's friends have not already figured out the treat thing.

[GinTalking]

I don't really care for the name, but it did seem appropriate once I heard there was a musical reference, and how odd people can get over some of these horses ... driven to tears seems right in line.

But to be honest, my first thought was that Bernardini won the Preakness in which Barbaro broke down and I wondered if there wasn't some kind of weird double meaning going on.

[EquineAnne]

OMG.
Driven to Tears is the name the TT selected as the winner in the Name the Foal contest. Second track on Zenyatta Mondatta album.
Moss Eye Roll might be better.

Out of 2,000 names submitted, this is what the editors liked:


TT: The seven other finalists (in alphabetical order) were Berning Zensation, Be Zen, BZ Kneez, Sans Regrets, Tres Bien Zen, Zendini, and Zucchini.
Zendini was by far the most popular name—suggested by more than 10% of the people who commented.

IMO, they all stink. Zucchini, Zendini, BZ Kneez, BURNING SENSATION???? ***?

[EquineAnne]

Good god, someone needs to help them with audio - we either get baby talk or loud music. But nice video and great that Mike went to visit her. Mike needs to practice his mint unwrap technique in advance of next visit.-)

And stop feeding her. Man, that horse is constantly eating between meals. :)

[firehorse]

IMO, they all stink. Zucchini, Zendini, BZ Kneez, BURNING SENSATION???? ***?

I think Driven to Tears is horrible, just the name itself and the lyrics to the actual song are not a 'happy' match - but I do have to admit I think BZ Kneez was really original and I think it's cute (but perhaps not majestic/great horse sounding enough)

[Play The King]

Those names are terrible! Omg...ack! Personally, blending their names is not the way to go ... the foal will be an original of two very awesome parents...let him/her be that!

Anyhow, I was on Zenyatta's site today looking for new pics or video's of her and I made the mistake of reading the comments. O.M.G. Note to self, do not do that anymore! It's really, really awesome that Zenyatta brought fans to racing, but reading their asinine comments is enough to make me want to poke my eye out. I don't know which was worse - the comment that the post cheered someone up enough to clean her house or the theory that Zenny wasn't as happy to see Mike as Mike was to see Zenny b/c she remembers him whipping her.

:doh:

Jenn

[islandgirl45]

Those names are terrible! Omg...ack! Personally, blending their names is not the way to go ... the foal will be an original of two very awesome parents...let him/her be that!

Anyhow, I was on Zenyatta's site today looking for new pics or video's of her and I made the mistake of reading the comments. O.M.G. Note to self, do not do that anymore! It's really, really awesome that Zenyatta brought fans to racing, but reading their asinine comments is enough to make me want to poke my eye out. I don't know which was worse - the comment that the post cheered someone up enough to clean her house or the theory that Zenny wasn't as happy to see Mike as Mike was to see Zenny b/c she remembers him whipping her.

:doh:

Jenn

I totally know what you mean. For example, I was reading the comments from Uncle Mo's Facebook page. O.M.G., note to self, do not do that anymore!

Here's one: "By the way, I just want to say, I will be completely willing to drink for you from now until late May if needed. I'd sacrifice my own sobriety for such a great horse as yourself...."

Can you imagine how crazy someone would have to be to sacrifice their sobriety for a horse?:doh:
Makes you want to poke your eyes out, huh?

I don't know which was worse, that "asinine" comment or several others telling Mo not to drink too much celebrating his Eclipse award. What kind of crazies think a racehorse actually goes out to bars?:evil:

[Hermes]

The kind that think that is really a tux that he was wearing?

On a serious note, I don't really read the comments, but I just can't find the energy to be irritated by folks enjoying the fun of following a horse or any harmless diversion.

[second_glance]

I totally know what you mean. For example, I was reading the comments from Uncle Mo's Facebook page. O.M.G., note to self, do not do that anymore!

Here's one: "By the way, I just want to say, I will be completely willing to drink for you from now until late May if needed. I'd sacrifice my own sobriety for such a great horse as yourself...."

Can you imagine how crazy someone would have to be to sacrifice their sobriety for a horse?:doh:
Makes you want to poke your eyes out, huh?

I don't know which was worse, that "asinine" comment or several others telling Mo not to drink too much celebrating his Eclipse award. What kind of crazies think a racehorse actually goes out to bars?:evil:

Hunh. I don't take comments like that literally. Just assumed they were all in good fun.

[Native Diver]

Berning Sensation? Uh, when I hear those words I think of one thing; Preparation H. Please let that name never happen. I don't care for Driven to Tears either. I get nothing out of it but a sad, almost maudlin feeling. I hope the Moss's will come up with something better than those. I wouldn't be surprised if Ann doesn't have a short list already.

[islandgirl45]

Hunh. I don't take comments like that literally. Just assumed they were all in good fun.


The kind that think that is really a tux that he was wearing?

On a serious note, I don't really read the comments, but I just can't find the energy to be irritated by folks enjoying the fun of following a horse or any harmless diversion.


Absolutely. That was my point.

I'm kinda tired of folks who rush back to TBC to disparage people who follow Zenyatta on Facebook or the site Zenyatta.com by calling them "asinine" or "crazies," when the truth is they and fans of Uncle Mo or any other horse are just enjoying their favorite horses.

[Beandog]

Berning Zensation??

:puke:

Wow... That could lead to a whole slew of interesting names. ZeHookerLied coming to the wire, ColdSore really digging in now but...here...comes...Zzzzzzzzzzerpes.

Good lord

I'd be stunned if the name doesn't have something to do with Sting. With two of their biggest stars were named with a wink and a nod to him (Giacomo's dam was named for a Sting song as well I think?) I'll have to double check the ipod but I am fairly certain Sting never released anything relating to crotchpot cooking...yet.

*conspiracy hat on*

Maybe that's his new single set to drop, and marketing genius that Moss is, he plans to capitalize on Stings new chart topper by naming the foal Berning Zensation.. it all makes perfect sense now. :doh:

[djnorth]

Absolutely. That was my point.

I'm kinda tired of folks who rush back to TBC to disparage people who follow Zenyatta on Facebook or the site Zenyatta.com by calling them "asinine" or "crazies," when the truth is they and fans of Uncle Mo or any other horse are just enjoying their favorite horses.

Same here. I do sometimes wonder about the extreme FOB's but more like, "Hope they're OK in real life." I'm thinking of the ones who claim to get emails from the horse etc. But there's nothing wrong with most of it, even if I don't do it. Like we've noted with the new fans (courtesy of Z) they may be contributors to racehorse retirement, bettors etc. We'll take it.

[Play The King]

Same here. I do sometimes wonder about the extreme FOB's but more like, "Hope they're OK in real life." I'm thinking of the ones who claim to get emails from the horse etc. But there's nothing wrong with most of it, even if I don't do it. Like we've noted with the new fans (courtesy of Z) they may be contributors to racehorse retirement, bettors etc. We'll take it.

Yep agreed. I shake my head though if any of them are really serious. That's a bit scary lol!

I've always wondered...does anyone know if Sting has met Zenyatta??

Jenn

[PanZareta]

Yep agreed. I shake my head though if any of them are really serious. That's a bit scary lol!

I've always wondered...does anyone know if Sting has met Zenyatta??

Jenn

From watching this video, I don't think he has.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wipD-ZzhmI8

Personally, I like Fields of Gold as a name if it's available. Just because it's my favorite Sting song.

[Forego]

Same here. I do sometimes wonder about the extreme FOB's but more like, "Hope they're OK in real life." I'm thinking of the ones who claim to get emails from the horse etc. But there's nothing wrong with most of it, even if I don't do it. Like we've noted with the new fans (courtesy of Z) they may be contributors to racehorse retirement, bettors etc. We'll take it.

One of the last times I was reading some FOB posts, there were a few along the lines of Barbaro actually speaking to them from Beyond The Veil and advising them about all kinds of crap... the one that jumped out at me was what outfit someone should wear to a job interview. Yes, seriously. Or all the OTT gushing about how some posters feel his spirit with them throughout the day... like walking at their side when they were in Walmart.

I do not think those particular people are okay in real life. :crazy:

[Hermes]

One of the last times I was reading some FOB posts, there were a few along the lines of Barbaro actually speaking to them from Beyond The Veil and advising them about all kinds of crap... the one that jumped out at me was what outfit someone should wear to a job interview. Yes, seriously. Or all the OTT gushing about how some posters feel his spirit with them throughout the day... like walking at their side when they were in Walmart.

I do not think those particular people are okay in real life. :crazy:

I find myself with more compassion for those that spend time worrying about the real life of someone they will never know.

[Blue Jeans]

Absolutely. That was my point.

I'm kinda tired of folks who rush back to TBC to disparage people who follow Zenyatta on Facebook or the site Zenyatta.com by calling them "asinine" or "crazies," when the truth is they and fans of Uncle Mo or any other horse are just enjoying their favorite horses.

Amen! So true! More mean-spirited folks than ever in this sport .... so it seems.

[Horse's Rear]

the one that jumped out at me was what outfit someone should wear to a job interview. Yes, seriously.

Halter top?

[Blue Jeans]

Somewhat on topic ....

Want to know more about the "A" in A&M Records? Herb Alpert. Tune in tomorrow morning on the CBS Sunday Morning Show ... 9:00AM ET.

>The distinctive Latin-jazz sound of Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass broadened America's taste for music in the 1960s. But there has always been much more to Alpert than meets the ear. Today, he is an accomplished entrepreneur and philanthropist, trumpeting the arts at every opportunity. Correspondent Russ Mitchell catches up with Alpert at his seaside home in California.
Those stories and more this "Sunday Morning." Listen for the trumpet.<

[EquineAnne]

OK, I just read an interview with Don Robinson in the Saturday Post. If it's been posted, I apologize. I really enjoyed it.

http://thesaturdaypost.org/blog/2010/11/15/don-robinson-talks-about-zenyatta-as-a-young-horse-at-winter-quarter-farm/

Also, a video of Don R. visiting Zenny @ LE's.


http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1277710643&v=wall#!/video/video.php?v=926488856870&oid=142579315768994&comments

I hope they work and you enjoy. I certainly did!

[drjohnh]

i love him saying that she picked up dancing in hollywood

[Ruffian75]

Zenyatta Tribute Video Slideshow
http://bit.ly/g9u9wd

[Dusty]

Zenyatta Tribute Video Slideshow
http://bit.ly/g9u9wd
Nicely done - THANKS!

[Forego]

I find myself with more compassion for those that spend time worrying about the real life of someone they will never know.

Ummm... who was worrying about some stranger's real life? I was just noting that what those FOBs had posted was... bizarre. Beyond that, I do not give them a moment's thought - let alone worry about them. I have better things to do - Forego and I are going to the mall tomorrow!


Halter top?

*snort* :hail:

[PJMIII]

OK, I just read an interview with Don Robinson in the Saturday Post. If it's been posted, I apologize. I really enjoyed it.

http://thesaturdaypost.org/blog/2010/11/15/don-robinson-talks-about-zenyatta-as-a-young-horse-at-winter-quarter-farm/

Also, a video of Don R. visiting Zenny @ LE's.


http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1277710643&v=wall#!/video/video.php?v=926488856870&oid=142579315768994&comments

I hope they work and you enjoy. I certainly did!Everything worked fine. Thanks for sharing.