Zenyatta

Queen of Racing

Z's Diary

Dairy Post #439

Sophie, this is the JOHN HENRY BRONZE created by Nina Kaiser! Photo by John Shirreffs

Good Morning Dear Friends!

I am absolutely elated this morning! I am so honored and thrilled to share the news with you that SANTA ANITA PARK, The Great Race Place, has commissioned Nina Kaiser to create a life-size bronze statue of ME. It is to be installed directly across from John Henry’s statue at the south rim of the Kingsbury Fountain.

I will be located right there to GREET the fans as they enter the track through the main grandstand gates. I will be facing eastward and right by the path the horses take when they walk from the receiving barn to the paddock area directly before each race.

I am SO EXCITED and SO DEEPLY, DEEPLY HONORED!

Nina created this beautiful JOHN HENRY Statue (shown above) for Santa Anita….and now she is completing the finishing touches of ME…a LIFE-SIZE ME!

Another thing that is so special about all of this is while I was at BARN 55, NINA took all of my exact measurements. She visited the barn on several occasions when MY JOHN felt it would be comfortable for ME so she could measure and study ME. Nina knows ME very well….every precise INCH OF ME….from these ‘measuring sessions’! So this statue will truly be a very accurate representation of ME!

From all reports, track management’s plan is to unveil ME during the fall meet at Santa Anita….which usually begins late September and this year will run through Breeders’ Cup. To date, MY TEAM does not know the date when this will take place.

As I hear more of the news, I will definitely keep you posted.

Please enjoy the article in today’s Daily Racing Form written by Jay Hovdey and his interview with Nina about her work on this project, (Blush, Blush!)

With Love,
Hugs to All~
Z

Reader Interactions

317 Comments

  3. / Reply

    Dear Zenyatta My name austin im glad that they are putting up a statue
    of you zenyatta. I am crying tears of joy for them putting up a statue of you zenyatta.
    I have a qestion. Do lik haveing a poster of you being put pleas i allways will want to see you from shari voltzes class

    • / Reply

      Hi, Austin. It is very sweet that you are so happy for Zenyatta. It is wonderful that you have a poster of her in Mrs. Voltzes class and get to see her everyday! Thank you for writing to us!!!

    • / Reply

      Dear Austin, I would love to see Zenyatta and so I can understand how you feel. You can see a poster of Zenny on the wall of Mrs. Voltz’s room every day and I see her every day on the wall of my living room. Isn’t that a wonderful thing?? Thank you for writing to us.

  4. / Reply

    ALl of us TN Zen fans should try to get together sometime. That would be fun!!!
    You deserve that bronze Zenyatta. They should put a heart of gold inside!!!!

    • / Reply

      Agreed! :) I live in McMinnville, halfway between Nashville and Chattanooga. Where are you from? I know there are several Volunteers from around our state who follow The Mare. It’s a pity Tennessee has never had much of a Thoroughbred industry, although we have produced THREE winners of the Kentucky Derby, tied with California! My grandpa once told me that there is more bluegrass in Tennessee than Kentucky, and the Lexington bluegrass region is really just an extension of the Nashville Basin; same limestone and rich soil, etc. President Andrew Jackson, who of course was from TN and started out as a Congressman from the Nashville district, had a large racehorse stable “back in the day”, and was even part-owner of the prestigious Clover Bottom racecourse near present-day Murfreesboro. Don’t forget that the Keeneland graded stakes winner Hoofit (NZ)–who started in last year’s Breeders Cup Turf Sprint (G2T)– is owned by a Tennessean, and after that horse had flown in from New Zealand he spent several weeks at her farm near Chattanooga before going off to the races! I guess the reason no one (to speak of ) has TBs in TN is because, “Why would I keep them here when Lexington is just a van drive up the highway?” But it can be done!
      But I digress! Have an awesome day, fellow Rocky-Toppers! :)

  6. / Reply

    I am still giggly inside with the news of your statue! I was at the unveiling of the John Henry statue, which was incredibly moving and drew a large crowd for a horse who had been retired for so long. I think they will need some serious crowd control for the unveiling of YOUR statue, Z! I can’t wait!!

  8. / Reply

    Wow what an honor for such a very deserving lady!!!!! That is great news. I know you must have blushed when you heard. It thrills my soul when awards and honors are given to those who really deserve them. I am sure Dottie and John and the team were also very happy. Congrats Queen Z!

  9. / Reply

    How wonderful! We have been waiting to hear this news. You are so deserving of this honor. Now, we would like to hear of plans for a bronze at the Kentucky Horse Park near those of Man O’War and Secretariat so that future generations will remember your very special place in Thoroughbred racing history.

  10. / Reply

    Zenny- Congrats on the statue!!!! I think it is great they are doing one of you!!!! I love you beautiful girl!!! Hugs and Kisses from Roswell,NM!!!!

  11. / Reply

    Dear Z:

    I just realized that is little Sophie laying down on John Henry’s statue. She is TOO CUTE. Love, JB

    • / Reply

      Yes, I didn’t recognize that white ball of fur with a tail sticking up! She must be smart enough, to stay put for the shutter to click.

  12. / Reply

    This is great news Zenyatta! I can’t wait till we know the date of the unveiling so I can plan to be there. I knew it was only a matter of time until Santa Anita arranged to have a statue of you since, unfortunately, the future of Hollywood Park is still uncertain – which would be the first logical place for your statue since that was your home base and site of so many of your thrilling races. So exciting to look forward to!

  13. / Reply

    ♥♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥♥
    Big Mamma Z
    When I read the DRF yesterday about your statue, I was so thrilled that I fought back tears!!! MY LOVE for YOU, and JOHN HENRY, has woven itself into a beautiful tapestry that I cannot find the words to describe my emotions… FATE!

    To reiterate: When My Beloved John was euthanized on my birthday 10/8/2007 – just hours after I kissed him good-bye – my heart broke into a million pieces!! I lost another Loved One. I knew in my heart ♥ that my husband, John, was at Rainbow Bridge to greet JH. However, I truly believed I’d NEVER love another horse again… JH had a surprised for ME – he sent me YOU!! How wonderful – a gift from Heaven!

    The full Circle of Love would be to have your foal come into this world on John Henry’s birthday, March 9th! I’m sure some people get tired (or bored) reading my postings about this – but that is just the way I FEEL.

    I emailed Nina Kaiser yesterday to congratulate her. She and I go back several years when she sculpt John Henry. I’d call her to give her support because she didn’t know John Henry, and based his statue on photos (some I provided). With YOU, Zenny, she had you up close and personal, so I’m sure she will get your dapples down perfectly. However, she did express concern that she has much pressure to please your fans – that’s what perfectionist do!!! :D

    I’ve always loved this photo of Cutie Pie Sophie :-)

    I’m long winded today, so I better sign off! {{{hugs}}} peppermint kisses and tummy rubs to you, MY QUEEN! XOXOXO

    Signed, Uncle John and Auntie Judy
    ♥♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥♥

    p.s. Love to your BFF, Tasty

    • / Reply

      John Henry knew you needed someone to mend your heart, so in his great wisdom, he sent the angel Zenyatta to be the one who made you “Extremely Happy Aunt Judy” again. He knew, and still knows, how happy you are, and how much you love him. :)

    • / Reply

      p.s. I told Nina that they will need one of those ropes they use at Disneyland to get on the rides, because they will need major crowd control!! Or, how about, Take A Number like they do at the deli LOL

      I always visit John when I get to Santa Anita. I met two men recently who patted John’s rump!! I asked why! They said it’s for good luck – TOO CUTE! Now they will pat two butts – your’s is the most beautiful in the world!

      BTW John is going to be thrilled to keep you “company” during those long quiet nights at the track – he’d be thrilled to share his racing stories with you (wink wink) since you weren’t around…….

    • / Reply

      @JAG: You brought tears to my eyes with this one – and I already knew the story. I believe in universal karma. Your love of your husband, and this horse, and the timing of your last visit with JH, and the arrival of Zenyatta and her wonderful people has not been an accident. I do not get bored with the notion of a delivery on March 9th. That would truly complete the circle and it gives me chills to think of it.
      @John Henry: If you pull those karma strings, please make it happen – for Judy, and for all of us who dream.
      @Zenny and All My Z Friends: Just really busy, but thinking about all of you and lurking when I can.
      diastu in tempe (out foxed the alien rednecks, still here!)

    • / Reply

      Judy — Oh, gosh, I didn’t know you were with JH just hours before he died :( I remember being at work and seeing the news of his passing on the Internet. My heart sank right into my feet. I hadn’t seen him in person since 1996 but it was like losing a dear friend. I’ve only given my heart that fully to two other horses: Free House and Zenyatta. I am so lucky to have been able to meet and touch all three of them. Now we just need a Free House statue and Santa Anita will officially become my private horse racing shrine! ;-)

      • / Reply

        @ Julie
        I was humbled and honored because the local TV stations interviewed me the morning after… I looked like — well, you know what I mean. But, to speak about John was surreal! He was (and is) so very special to me! He lives in my ♥ with Zenyatta right next to him……. always and forever….

    • / Reply

      JAG, your story is beautiful! Although you have faced tragic loss in your life, you have remained open to joy and your angels in heaven have embraced you and given you love when you needed it most. Both John Henry and Zenyatta represent healing for your heart. I admire how you continue to celebrate life, my friend!!
      Love and hugs,
      Dawn

      • / Reply

        @ Dawn
        I have lots of Gurdian Angels – my hubby, John, John Henry, and my sister, Mary – I feel their LOVE – yes, I am TRULY BLESSED!
        Judy G

    • / Reply

      Dear Judy, Your story never fails to pull at the heart strings and I’m wishing with all my heart for the 9th. I’m more determined than ever to make it to Santa Anita in November, not sure how I’m going to afford to send Vic to college and fly me to Ca and party with all the Dumplings but it has to happen.

      • / Reply

        @ Brenda
        We would LOVE to meet you! I hope you can make the trip! Santa Anita truly is the Great Race Place. One of the reasons I love ♥ Southern California :D

    • / Reply

      Dear Judy,
      I believe that everyone who knows your story is pulling for March 9th! We’re right there with you – tears and all ♥♥♥
      Sandy

      • / Reply

        Keta
        You are so sweet! I have on my “bucket list” to visit the Arlington Track and pay my respects to John Henry vs The Bart!!! I have friends who live in the area (one is married to a trainer), so it would be a very fun trip :-P

  14. / Reply

    What a fitting honor to you, Zenny, and all your teams. If I make it back to Calif anywhere near Santa Anita, I’ll have to plan to see the statue.
    Take care everyone. Zenny (and Tasty too)….we’re all pacing in place :))))

  15. / Reply

    Has anyone read the story on Hay List, BC main rival in the stakes this Saturday? It is a very touching article. Plus, it says he gained weight, but he gained MUSCLE. I think BC will win, but she may have to bring out some of the jets if he is in as good shape as his trainer says. Plus, I heard he is a VERY BIG boy. A gentle giant, like another horse I know. :)

  16. / Reply

    Congratulations Sweet Zenny!! I always knew that there would be a statue of YOU at Santa Anita Park but I thought that I would have to wait such a long time til it would happen. I am sooooo Happy that it is sooner than later!! Now I’m waiting for a Race to be named after The Queen Zenyatta!! Can’t wait…… Hurry Hurry Hurry Please !!
    Life Is Good !! For we have ZENYATTA in our lives…
    Love YOU Always OOOXXX

  17. / Reply

    Looks like I’ll be picking up a form today!! I saw the article yesterday online and cannot say CONGRATULATIONS loud enough to all of Team Zenyatta! Whoo hoo! I can’t wait to go to the unveiling of this. Awesome!

  18. / Reply

    Congratulations Zenny!! What a wonderful tribute and a honor that you so deserve. I am sure that when the historians do there research you will be the Number One Horse of all time. Zenny you and Team Z have done more for the throughbred industry through your kindness and love. Thank You for everything you do. Zenny I hope you and Tasty have a great afternoon. Time is getting short, you and Tasty will have a Little Z and a Little TT before long. LOL fron Tn.

  19. / Reply

    I LOVE Sophie looking at the inscription! Is she reading it or thinking of jumping down? And just how did she get up there? Congratulations Z….I’m glad they will put it at Santa Anita where it will be on display for years to come! What an honor indeed!

  20. / Reply

    Great news about this wonderful honor! It’s a good thing she doesn’t have measure you in your present condition :-)

  21. / Reply

    How fitting that your statue will be situated in a spot where you can greet the fans as they enter the park, since you’ve always been such a social butterfly. Always wanted to visit Santa Anita – now I have another good reason to visit. Congrats Z!

    Just read that Black Caviar is running again this Saturday going for her 19th win. Worries me when they run a horse again so soon, but certainly hope she’s up for the task!

  23. / Reply

    This is so exciting! I can hardly wait for the Breeders Cup this year so that I can see (and be seen with) your beautiful and dignified statue. You will be remembered long after all of us have left this earth … and that’s truly a well-deserved honor.

  24. / Reply

    Knew sooner or later this would come about. For those of you that have never been to Santa Anita is is a beautiful track, and I know where the statue will be. Yet another honor for the greatest race mare to ever set hoof on a track. I will be there when they show it to the world :) I will be heading to SA on Sunday to see Creative Cause race and I will just picture where Z will be while I’m there. Maybe Hollywood park would fowllow suit, but HP’s future is always in doubt, but it would be an honor to have one there as well. Congrats Z a another well-deserved honor.

  25. / Reply

    Absolutely AWESOME news. I can’t wait to see it – I hope Nina sculpts you dancing!
    The Queen really DESERVES this honor. I bet Team Z is really proud and excited!!!
    I know her fans are!!

  27. / Reply

    The statue will be beautiful! I cannot wait to see it. It is only fitting that it be at Santa Anita – the place of some of your most unforgettable victories. Love to Z and Team Zenyatta!

  28. / Reply

    What an amazing way to honor you, and everyone behind you for what you have done for the thoroughbred racing industry. The placement of your statute is befitting a QUEEN – you will oversee the horses as they pass by on their way to the saddling paddock and very special to all those entering the track, since one of the first things they will see is YOU. Anxiously waiting for the unveiling date.

  29. / Reply

    I just came from the DRF site where I found this news; it’s so exciting.

    Nina Kaiser says you are her “War and Peace”…you are certainly epic! I love how she also said that given the 17.1 hands and 78-inch heart girth, you’re a “construction project”. Too funny.

  30. / Reply

    Jerry, Ann, John, Dottie and all those who brought about Zenyatta’s success deserve to be so proud of their accomplishment. The honor of a statue of this great mare at SA symbolizes many things not the least of which is what these people did for and with this gift of a champion but also what the gift returned to the world.
    An Honor so well deserved.

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