Happy Friday!
Today is a very special day, as Coz will make his debut at Santa Anita this afternoon!
Cheer him on with us as he runs in Race 2 at Santa Anita Park. Post time is 1:27 pm PT. #GoCoz!
This week, John and Coz have been working on FOCUS in preparation for the big day. Scroll down for photos of his morning lessons.
Enjoy!
-Team Z
Zowie Starr
I thoroughly agree with all those who weren’t terribly concerned about Coz’s performance today. He looked very professional and undisturbed during the post parade and was back far enough to not get hurt and to see what the other horses were doing. He’s a very smart horse and yes he did look like his mom for about the first six furlongs. Who knows? Perhaps now he can go ahead and complete his racing career the same as his MOM only backwards with the loss at the beginning vs the end.
Crystal Harrison
Coz, you were the only horse in that race who had never raced before so don’t feel bad at all. I live beside a horse farm and the owner and my neighbour always has no expectations for his horses first race. He just wants them to get through it, for until a horse actually races, all the training in the world will never quite prepare them for that.
So, now Coz, you have that all important hurdle behind you. Work hard and you will only get better dear heart. You have the strength, the stamina, the pedigree so now it’s time to work towards that intangible that will take you from winner’s circle to winner’s circle.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Sheena:
Goodnight. Thanks for sending me beautiful Summer today. Love and Hugs, JB, LM, PC, HT, Cap, Herc, Frank and all the Sweeties
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Beautiful Z, COZ, ZI, V and Montey:
Goodnight. Stay comfy and cozy. Love all of you so much. Hugs, JB
Z Princess, Dubai, will always love you.
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Judy.Poor Coz it just wasn’t his day!Hopefully next time.Goodnight God bless you LM PC HT Cap Hercules Frank and all the Sweeties.Love and hugs SheenaX
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Sheena:
COZ gained experience and that’s a good thing. Love and Hugs, JB
maureen ph[llips
Dear JB,
Thankyou for your write up, I totally agree with you, he gained experience and thats all that matters. His father and mother the great Queen Zenyetta were both late bloomers. The Queen started late into her 3year old year, why?, just because in her early 3 year old year, she was mentally not even close to being ready or understanding what she was supposed to be doing on the track being content to take in the sights and sounds. His father the great Bernie, in his 2 year old year his connections were truly disappointed in his race and as they put it, it was lack of focus on his part, When he matured some, look at what he accomplished and would have done more if not that Sheik Mohammed his owner decided to retire him,
I wish people would stop with the comparisons with Ziconic or Ebby, I quite frankly think its not fair to the first Prince. I still have complete confidence in him that he would find his stride. He didn’t break his maiden today, there is tomorrow and tomorrow and another tomorrow, you know Coz, he was always goofying around even as a kid. The great Zenyatta lost a race too, be it at the end of her career.
It is well Coz, you’ll be just fine, We are solidly behind you all the way. Congratulations on your first race. Sleep well.
SallyB.(AuntiecherishesZandheryoung)
I was not able to watch the race as it happened. It is the first thing I did when I came home. Looks like you were not suppose to win this won Coz. I have faith in you and I am proud of how you ran; I saw your speed when asked for; just a bit late. Love you handsome boy. It is more important to have ended the race safely. You have only just begun.
love & kisses, Auntie Sally B
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Sally:
Love and Hugs, JB
sheena.davies(wales)
Lovely article and video of Balthazar King recovering after his nasty fall at Aintree.Hugs Sheena.
http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news
sheena.davies(wales)
Sorry wrong article.Sheena.
sue and tony
Coz, wishing you all the best. You came home safe and sound and that’s what really counts. You’ll get this racing thing figured out. We love you very much.
Faithful Zenyatta Supporter
The common denominators with Ebby and Coz do not just involve Zenyatta, but also also Bernardini, who won many races. And there’s our John as their very conservative trainer who prefers training at a very slow pace. Hope Coz wins a race before he’s four years old. Lol.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Faithful:
Bernie won his second time out; maybe COZ will follow in Dad’s footsteps. Love and Hugs, JB
pamhomeier
If CoZ’s next race will be at Belmont what do you suppose are the odds that Victor will be back on him? Very proud of you CoZ! First race under your belt! Onward and upward!
suew/Va
Coz, you looked marvelous. I think you are still trying to figure this racing stuff out. Your Mom always liked to be at the front at the end of a race and somehow knew how to do it.
You’ll be just fine…love you bunches.
Jan S. / Houston
Hi Coz! Hope you are taking a good rest after your 1st. race buddy!!
quarterhossgal
Interesting race today for COZ……I’m sure a learning experience. Wonder what John’s instructions to VE were? Hope John shares his thoughts about the race with all of COZ’s fans. This is just the beginning of a successful career for Queen Z’s first born.
maureen ph[llips
Dear Quaterhorsegal,
Amen and thankyou.
Faithful Zenyatta Supporter
Unfortunately for Ebby, she had different jockeys at Belmont, one of them raced her when she was injured in the gate. Change was the only constant for her. Poor thing. So glad she was finally retired. Coz may do better though with a different jockey next time at Belmont.
Janet Newman
So proud of you Coz! It was not to be, but it will not tarnish how much you are loved as the firstborn of the Queen. There will always be positives and negatives no matter how you go on from here. I do not think even Mike could have gotten you home today a winner and that does not matter to me. You were carrying the weight of your mother’s career, as well as the desires of her loving fans on your back today.
You will make your own destiny and make us proud no matter what the future holds.
maureen ph[llips
Dear Janet,
Thank you for that. Its only a race and that would not define who he is. He will go on from here to be a great race horse.. Like I like to remind people, his father lost his first race but caught on fire and was unstoppable, In his other loss, no horse could have beaten Invisor that year and we remember him fondly as a great race horse. The Queen as much as I hate to say it also lost a race and in that loss she became greater.
I have complete confidence in Coz and even if he is not as great as his mom, he is still our beloved Queen Zenyatta’s first Prince. Remain Blessed. Happy weekend. Am sure his mama is also very Proud of him and so are we. Lol to all.
ZFANSANDY
I haven’t read all the comments yet but I think the ‘baby’ just wasn’t ready yet. Even Victor’s pre-interview made me doubt. One things for SURE tho:
Coz WON most photogenic. What a beauty compared to the others.!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hang in baby Coz, you’ll get it.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear ZFANSANDY:
He’s absolutely stunning looking. Just love him. Love and Hugs, JB
Marty R / Colorado
This is my first time trying this in a very long time. There was an article in Bloodhorse about Coz’s race and comments from John. If this doesn’t work, I/m sure one of you “techy” folks will be able to bring it up and thank you if I don’t get this right.
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/91332/cozmic-one-lacks-late-kick-in-debut
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Marty:
Good job posting the link on the Blood Horse article. I was just about to post it. Interesting comments by JS. COZ is still learning what it’s all about. Love and Hugs, JB
Benny G
I watched the race and noticed a few things:
1. Coz’s stride needs some work. He needs to lengthen his stride and utilize his size. Smaller horses like Victory Gallop and I’ll Have Another were able “get there” at the wire because of their stride and stamina.
2. The “intangibles”: John Sheriffs has been around horses long enough to know that desire, heart, and tenacity cannot be taught. Only time will tell if Cosmic One has these traits.
The next several races will answer these questions. Good Luck Coz! We’re cheering for you!
P.S.: Has Zenny been bred? What is the latest news?
Marty R / Colorado
Yay…looks like it worked. I watched Calracing.com before the first race began and the commentators said Coz schooled twice yesterday. In the morning session he reared and bucked giving John a hard time. Dottie’s photos must be from the afternoon session when he was better behaved and that must have been what decided them to have Victor on board before going to the walking ring. I also heard them say before the second race that Coz lashed out at his handler in the saddling area and the handler happened to be his Trainer, John Shirreffs. My own feelings while watching the race were that Coz didn’t know he was in a race or doesn’t understand yet that he’s supposed to try to pass the others. I did however, think he was very well behaved in the post parade and at the gate with only a slight hesitation at entering. I believe his training will take a different tac now and hopefully his next race won’t be from pp1.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Marty:
I heard that comment too about COZ acting up with JS. I think he’s rebelling and green yet and he’ll learn with experience as he goes. Glad he came out of the race well and that’s the most important thing. Love and Hugs, JB
Nancy
Dear Coz,
It is the beginning of your racing life and mistakes happen. Just remember, it is from our mistakes that we learn best. You are in goods hands that will guide you – trust in John!
Love you always beautiful boy.
Nancy
Jane Cabrinha
I agree with Marty R. He was very well mannered in the post parade and he entered the gate with ease, really. Kind of expecting a big thing at that point. But went nicely. He must be quite a handful and hopefully he will “get it” soon. Takes a unsurmontable amount of patience to do what John S. does. Every hat I have goes off to him. Will be better next time. Had to start sometime. I am really waiting for Ziconic!!!! Will John S. also train him. Yes, I am wondering about who Z is being bred to. ???? Shouldn’t have already happened???
Z13Rulz
Zenyatta was bred back to War Front for her 2016 foal.
We’re waiting to hear if if she is in foal. They tend to wait till 60+ days in foal before giving an announcement.
Ingrid Arnone
I think Victor has something because when CC was training with a girl rider he improve, I don’t think Victor is a good jokey. Cozmic One needs a jockey like Mike S or Ken D or Joel R.
Coz I know in the next race you going to be much better, I cannot wait.
I love youuuuuuu!
Tizgood
I think VE is a very one dimensional Jockey, I think he got the job because he was in CA
consistently for Coz’s works- Mike os traveling a lot. He needs someone gentle but firm with finese and there are few female riders at SA- Chantal is at Woodbine. I agree he needs a different jockey and so does CC.
shirleeinindy
If Mike has commitments, how about Gary Stevens? Experienced, smart and patient. And he has no need to prove himself to anyone at the expense of the horse.
Tizgood
He would be a good choice, Shirley. He is a finese rider for sure and not to agressive; he rides filly’s well so that tells he is sensitive- let’s tell JS
ha ha !!! he is in CA more now as he is restarting his career after knee replacement, too
Jeanie
I agree. He needs a jockey change. Victor rides every horse the same. Coz needs a smart jockey who understands how to ride HIM. He needs Mike Smith.
Z13Rulz
Before we all board the tried and true jockey bashing train something to keep in mind.
At this point no one understands how to ride CoZ because CoZ isn’t making it easy for anybody handling him. Not John S, not Victor not anyone.
CoZ is a very headstrong, willful young stud colt who (in John’s words) is more interesting in fighting to fight then he is in running. This is NOT uncommon with young thoroughbreds, especially the intelligent ones who are just like teenagers, they think they know what’s best and they’re NOT GONNA LISTEN TO ANYONE!
Victor has been on him for his works since the start. Victor is in the position to feel progression/regression in CoZ as the colt continues to develop mentally.
From everything that was said before the race, to the race itself, Victor gave CoZ the ride John S wanted CoZ to receive. A safe, positive, learning experience and trust me, looking at how CoZ ran, that colt did NOT make it easy on Victor!!
But he still brought CoZ home safe and forward thinking, so maybe give the guy a break.
Max
Z13Rulz makes very good points. It is unlikely that any jockey could have done better with Coz in that race. The young Coz is clearly doing his own thing. Until he decides that winning races is his thing, no one can force him to run. If anyone can help him to be a racehorse, it’s John Shirreffs. Time will tell.
Ann NC
Agree. After watching other racing this week, I saw seasoned horses rearing, losing riders out of the gate, kicking and having bad gate manners.
I admire, John, Victor and team for getting Coz safely back home.
For a debut, he learned very much yesterday. He was not injured and nobody else was put in harms way. Life can change in the blink of of eye working with horses and I am in awe of the calm approach that was displayed by Coz yesterday. Good job, Victor and John. Your patience and skills are to be admired!
Carol Bracewell
Come on folks …. I have not read any comments, but no two horses alike. I’ve trained most of my life, although h/j and endurance horses.
Considerations:
If I am not mistaken, Zenny was not raced until she was a little older to mature. Is he being pushed too fast due to the limelight and all eyes watching.
Respectfully, if this the correct Jockey for him? Mike Smith loved Zenny and I think would give this horse a better ride with that in his heart. Course, then he’s going to make the most he can on the horses he considers to ‘be on their game.”
Is he hurting a little? And, he spunk is probably similar, but different – if that makes sense.
Respectfully always – A HUGE Fan from NC
Carol Bracewell
Too many typos – on computer too long. Please delete.
God bless and so sorry about Z’s filly.
Respectfully always … we learn everyday.
Mary Margaret in Georgia
I am proud of Coz’s first race. He remained calm and professional, very good for his first race. The others already had their first exposure to a race. Coz is certainly taking it all in and I have confidence he will put it all together. Coz will be a force to be reckoned with once he gets all these new things figured out. Just because everyone’s journey in life doesn’t follow the same path doesn’t mean it isn’t the right path to follow. What is right for one may not be right for the other. As long as Coz stays healthy, safe, and especially happy, then and only then will Coz be following the right path for his journey. I know Mr. John and his crew are doing the best for you. We all have to keep the faith. I love you Coz. I hope you enjoyed your dinner and have a could night sleep. Don’t be afraid, stay strong, and keep learning your lessons from your great teacher. Your fans are hoping the best for you. Sleep well Sweet Prince.
maureen ph[llips
Dear Janet,
Thank you for that. Its only a race and that would not define who he is. He will go on from here to be a great race horse.. Like I like to remind people, his father lost his first race but caught on fire and was unstoppable, In his other loss, no horse could have beaten Invisor that year and we remember him fondly as a great race horse. The Queen as much as I hate to say it also lost a race and in that loss she became greater.
I have complete confidence in Coz and even if he is not as great as his mom, he is still our beloved Queen Zenyatta’s first Prince. Remain Blessed. Happy weekend. Am sure his mama is also very Proud of him and so are we. Lol to all.
anne bonner
Sleep well tonight, Coz, you survived your first race. Now you know what’s involved, so it’s time to listen to John and learn some more lessons. You’re being trained by the best and will have every chance to prove yourself.
I was hoping he’d pass a few horses, but not today. Only time will tell.In the meantime, he’s still our Coz!
Best to all.
Annie B.
Tizgood
Coz needs some face time with Zenyatta-a good mother
to son talk !!!
maureen ph[llips
Dear Tizgood,
Well put, you know he is a mama’s boy. I always remember how he would get up on his hind legs to kiss the Queen, he needs face time with her for sure to be assured that she still loves him. Am sure he misses her. Have a great weekend. Thanks for keeping the faith in our Prince. It is well always at Z Nation,
Janie (in L.A.)
I was at Santa Anita today and was enthralled by Coz’s beauty… it’s okay he came in last, he’s still a winner to me. As he came around in the paddock before the race, he looked right at me and I didn’t want to make him nervous by reacting too much, but boy, what a beautiful boy he is. I’m so glad I was there. Now he knows what it’s all about…
maureen ph[llips
Thanks for keeping the faith. Our Prince will be just fine. He looks so calm, I wonder where he got that tamper from. It must be the full moon. His a baby and still wants to have things his way, maybe we all spoilt him. That has always been his issues even when he was at Lanesend. He’ll out grow all of that. So long as we keep the faith, he will get it right. Have a Blessed weekend. it is well at Z Nation.
Delrene from Carlsbad, Ca
It was such a beautiful day at the Great Race Place and I was so proud to be there in person to support Team Cozmic One!!! Such anticipation. He behaved beautifully in the walking ring – VE was on him when John walked him over. The Moss’s looked very proud and happy and it was so nice to see Dottie with them. The poster they gave away is beautiful. Cozmic One, your first experience is now behind you and you and John will re assess what needs to be worked on. But most of all, we were all so very proud to be there in support of you, your Mom and all things Zenyatta. For my money, you won hands down the most handsome horse award in race no. 2. There were a few of us, who shed a tear or two just watching you walk in the ring and the paddock. Brought back such wonderful memories of all who came under the spell of your beautiful Mama. You have lots of supportive “aunties”/ godparents and loving fans. So glad you all came back safe and sound. Fun to see one of your most supportive fans do the riders up call. Good job Judy!!!
AmyK
So nice to hear your thoughts of seeing everything in person. He looked beautifully composed in the post parade and loading into the gate. I was very happy when I saw him emerge from the gates smoothly and without issue. He had a great learning experience and came home to have dinner safe and sound. Now John knows his demeanor on the track and will continue to focus his lessons for his next outing. Hopefully, I will get to see him again at Saratoga. Thank you again for your impressions first hand – glad he was well-behaved for his first start. The best is yet to come.
♥Auntie Judy aka JAG So. California
♥ LOL Delrene it’s always fun to see you at the track! Thanks for the compliment on my call of Riders UP :-) I will support Zenyatta’s babies until I take my last breathe. She remains Queen of my ♥
Auntie JAG