Happy Saturday Everyone!
Springtime is in the air and everything is getting so busy. It is a very exciting time in Lexington now as Keeneland opened yesterday for their race meet. I never ran at this race track, but my dear Barn 55 Friend, HARMONIOUS, won the Grade 1 Queen Elizabeth II Race here last fall. It is a very special time and everyone LOVES to go RACING in this town!
Today, Kentucky Derby Preps are taking place in New York, Illinois, and California. My friend, MR. COMMONS, is running in the Santa Anita Derby this afternoon. His stall was just 3 down from mine when I was at Barn 55…so I’m wishing him all the best! HOOVES CROSSED…for sure!
We also have the update for our contest! Isabelle and Cheva, 2 of my very special friends, drew the names out of the bucket for us! As you can see in the photo above, they are in the barn office at Hollywood Park. Oh, there are lots of photos of ME all around. Now this is TOO CUTE! The bucket we used for this drawing is on the desk. All 64 of the cards from Wednesday’s winners were placed in this bucket, mixed up again and again…and the drawing began!
Here are the names of the 32 people who will move to the next stage:
1) Ingrid Esguerra……………..Miami, FL
2) Sharon Peck………………..Seattle, WA
3) William Uecker……………..Boerne, TX
4) Linda Henderson……………Seminole, TX
5) Karen Mitchell……………….Berkeley, CA
6) Sherry Drish…………………Kearneysville, WV
7) Linda Edwards………………Lawrenceville, NJ
8) Thomas Ronholm…………..Rochester, NY
9) Valerie Franklin…………….Davison, MI
10) Margaret Lewis…………….Sausalito, CA
11) Guido Sanchez…………….Ewing, NJ
12) Cathy Lassilo……………….Tacoma, WA
13) Heidi Kruckenbert………….Vallejo, CA
14) Lynn Meier…………………..Thousand Oaks, CA
15) Michelle Cross………………Decatur, AL
16) Pam Giles……………………Newman, GA
17) Helen Soloman……………..Van Nuys, CA
18) Willie Tomaino………………Newport, RI
19) Linda Stokes…………………Groton, VT
20) Chris Balmes………………..Lake Oswego, OR
21) Dawn Conrad……………….Cedaredge, CO
22) Georgia Harper…………….Bellevue, WA
23) Vicki Vinson…………………Apple Valley, CA
24) Sarah Powell………………..Clemson, SC
25) Tammi Fry…………………..Houston, TX
26) Brenda Sprunger…………..Ontario, Canada
27) Ann Ransone………………..Walkerton, VA
28) Louann Cingel………………Union, MO
29) Lydia Ward………………….Batavia, OH
30) Mary Kay Adams…………..Bloomfield, NJ
31) Patsy VandenBerg………..Santa Rosa, CA
32) Brenda Freeman…………..Mobile, AL
CONGRATULATIONS to these 32 people! The next step of the contest will go to the SWEET SIXTEEN! When we do the next drawing, these 32 cards will be placed into the bucket…and 16 will be selected!
We are moving right along! Cheva and Isabelle had a GREAT TIME helping us!
Thank you to everyone! Cheers to a wonderful day of RACING and a HIGH HOOF to the 32 contestants named above moving to the next level!
With Love,
Hugs to All~
Z
Linda in NJ
Hi Zenny: Wow what a Saturday!! I am lucky number: 7. I see us 3 Team New Jeseyans are hangin in there. Let’s keep goin–with Go New Jersey Go
Lynn ..... (nearby Hwd Park) California
OH Zenny, I’m so Lucky!
My heart jumped again, and my breathe was .. oh,there it is,… good I can breathe again. Well, I just saw my name and I’m so so Happy I’m still IN! All for #19. Yippe. It’s a real honor to be on Zenyatta’s list!
I’ll have to come back on this site later to read (all ya’all’s) comments.. gotta go for now.
Marilu V
Happy Saturday Zeny!
I could not make it to Santa Anita today but just saw the results. Congratulations to Mr. Commons and Mike for winning third place in the Santa Anita Derby. I’m sure
John is happy. Have a good weekend. Hugs, Marilu
Barbara Grimaldi
Good contest, Zenny! Three people from NJ where I now live–one of them lives in Bloomfield which is only about 35 miles from me. I’m wishing all the contestants luck!!!
Linda in NJ
Hi Zenny: Wow what a Saturday!! I couldn’t wait to get home to see this post. I cannot believe it. I am lucky number: 7. I see the 3 of us “Team New Jerseyans” are hanging in there. Let’s keep goin–Go New Jersey Go!!!
On the race front: Poor Uncle Mo!! I hope he will be okay. @Signofthetimes, didn’t this same situation happen to Mucho Macho Man in the Louisiana Derby?
I found the Santa Anita Derby very exciting!! I thought Mr. Commons and Mike Smith did really well. A very strong third place finish! Congratulations, John! Great race!!
mary bobolis
A perfect trip by Mike E on Mr. Commons. He’s still up and coming and probably needs more time. During the race I was just imagining if you were on the field and could see you rounding the final turn and dusting all of them! You’re the Best of the Best..
Janet Oliver
Z, Just got back from Santa Anita Races. Your friend Mr Commons came in 3rd. He looked so handsome. So did his Jockey. Miss you on the track.
tony
Just caught up on some of the race results today. Big upset with Uncle Mo…it illustrates how monumental those 19 straight wins were for Zenny. As a deep closer she was in a class by herself.
Congratulations to the lucky 32…too bad all of you can’t make it through the next round.
jeanie langford
Congratulations to the 32. When are we going to hear about you and Bernie. Is it to late for a foal now?
myrna miller
Oh darn! Both Mr.Commons and Uncle Mo came in third today. What a disappointment for Uncle Mo. Maybe he was still upset at Awesome Maria’s ignoring him. Poor Mo!—But it got me to thinking(since I’m fairly new to horseracing) that you really, really, are a SUPERHORSE, Zenyatta. As your April 1 horoscope said, “you ALWAYS show up and deliver”. Many said that you even made your 20th race the MOST EXCITING RACE EVER. And with it all , you are so humble and sweet and just love everyone. A ONCE IN A LIFETIME HORSE!!!!!! I hope by this time you’ve gotten my birthday card and gift from me. Your pictures are all over my house. and I would love to have won the nina Kaiser sculpture, but since I didn’t make the cut, I hope someone from California wins, as this is your home state. Much love and hugs,Z, and have a great week!
Max
Results have not been great for a number of horses on the trail to the Triple Crown. Some unfortunately have injuries. As others have said on this site, it shows how truly amazing is the record of Zenyatta. I agree with the Queen about her last race. She won all 20 of those races and went into history as a super mare. And she is still the centre of attention for so many. Stay well, Z. Racing fans still need you.
Dawn Conrad
Dearest, Zenyatta. THIS IS AMAZING! I feel so blessed to have made it as part of the thrilling 32. I had my fingers, toes, ankles, knees, arms – – – well you get the picture! :) Everything was crossed when I opened the site today. Thank you and Team Z so much!! The picture of Isabelle and Cheva was great. No matter the outcome, Zenny, the wonderful words of support that many have shared have already made me a winner. :) :) Today was a wonderful sports day. I watched the Masters Golf Tournament for most of the day. I love golf and a couple of years ago I took my mother to see the Masters. Although, she has never played, she is a fan and the memories we have of that time in those amazing surroundings is priceless. The beauty of Augusta in the spring is beyond words. We agree, we have to do it again. Then it was on to horseracing. Of course I felt so bad for our wonderful Uncle Mo and his connections. I just pray he comes out of the race healthy. The possiblities for him are still endless. On the flip side, the connections of Toby’s Corner have to be floating right now. They have been given a shot at their dream. Isn’t that what is truly amazing about this remarkable sport; so many great stories, so many ups and downs in human emotions. It just shows once again, Zenny, how awesome and inspiring your accomplishments are. The odds of a 19/1 record are truly astronomical. YOU ARE THE QUEEN. I know it was raining in Kentucky today. I was worried at first when I heard tornado warnings, but looks like things cleared up some later. I’m sure it gave you an opportunity for those fun mud baths of yours. How unfortunate that AP Indy has reached the end of his time in the breeding shed, what a remarkable individual he is. His presence has influenced the very makeup of the modern thoroughbred. I was very happy to hear that he will remain where he is. How fantastic of Lane’s End to give back to him, as he has given to them. I am still planning a visit to Lexington in mid-July. I have already spoken to LE over the phone. I will be looking forward to time with Indy. I will also be sure to keep an eye out for David as well. Being able to talk to him would be amazing. Of course being that close, my thoughts will turn to you beautiful. I hope you know my dream of seeing you is still alive and well within my heart, Zenny. It may not happen this year, or next, or in ten years, but I will continue to believe. Sweet dreams. Hugs and kisses. XXXOOO
CONGRATS AND BEST OF LUCK TO THE 32 MOVING ON!! FROM BEGINNING TO END, WHAT EXCITMENT ALL OF THE 64 WILL HAVE SHARED!! :) :)
@Shari Voltz – You bet I saw your post. I always look for it. So, glad you are up and running again. Has to feel good! Your prayers are greatly appreciated. What fun, the journey with you!
@Peggy – To my long lost sister, will miss you very much in the contest. :( Thank you for the love and support.
@Amanda Gilliland – Wish you were going forward, your well wishes are so kind.
@Karen Mitchell – Onward and upward, my friend. Your words are much too generous, we are in this together and that is what makes it even more special.
@DJ, Robbie, Trina – Thank you!!!
@JSmith, Trina Nagele, Suzanne – Watched the latest win of Black Caviar. Wow! Just read that she has qualified for the Breeder’s Cup. Hope they bring her over.
@Sharon Call – Loved “Into The Vortex”, great writing and wonderful memories.
DavidTN
Hey Z, is there any word on when your next date with Bernardini is going to be? I just know that this time is going to be perfect, and there’ll be a little Prince or Princess Z running along side you soon! Best of luck to all involved!
Kim S
Thanks for the update Zenny and sorry to the 32 that weren’t drawn for the next round but again, good luck to the 32 who are left. What an exciting day of racing. There were some disppointments but with that comes new excitements. Have a great Sunday everyone. Lots love to all.
Vicki
UNBELIEVABLE, I made the cut again. Love to you Zenyatta and all your pals in Barn 55!
Sunny Boyd
Good evening Zenyatta,
good luck to the lucky 32 :) :)
Hope this day found you doing well, and grazing contently in your paddock with your pals? Too bad about Mo’s hoof, hope he’ll be alright.
Good night, sweetheart, good night, and sweet dreams of all your fav things. :) :) :)
Lynn ..... (nearby Hwd Park) California
Animals lovers are the greatest…
Horse Lovers are the greatest…
And of course Zenyatta lovers are the sweetest most intelligent people.
Just looking from all these wonderful posts day to day! Great stories from all.
Zenny, you bring out the best! I’m in the very lucky 32 above. I’m so greatful. Into the next round, I invision the lucky chosen to be virtually in a circle holding each other up, hand in hand as the next selected cards are drawn.
Early, I watched the S.A. Derby on the Web. I wasn’t sure who was going to win. I hope those with injurys heal quickly. And, what happened MO?! My, what a crazy race day.
I’m looking to how The Factor does next week. I’m curious about Dialed In as well. All you horses on the Derby trail, keep safe and sound.
How can one really get to sleep with so much going on! Good Night All.
Zenny stay warm and dry in your stall.
Peggy
@Sue, Thank you so much for telling of the picture tribute to A P Indy on Bloodhorse. That tribute was just fantastic. That last picture just said it all. I’m going to start crying if I keep thinking about him. Just so glad he’s with us still. I hope he has many more years
karen g
Hi Zenny! Happened to be walking out to the winner’s circle at Santa Anita today, and lo and behold! I was walking right next to your (too cute!) stepmom Dottie! WOW!! Is she something! And I didn’t even know it until we almost knocked into one another! Well, it turns out that another fan stopped her to ask about Zenny’s next hook-up with Bernie! Well, of course, I wanted to be nosey, Dottie said “next week, there’s just too much stress right now”. I did not talk to her personally, but my sister and I heard this exchange. Nothing to get all upset over, please! Dottie was gracious and smiling and not at all concerned. So don’t any of us either! A natural process. Just thought I’d share – Zenny, I had no winners today! Placed Mr. Commons and he ran third. He ran a great game race, so don’t be too sad! Zenny, you’ll be my only winner ever!!! Love you more!!!
Sally (B)
Hi Sweet Z! There are 32 very lucky excited people in the running for your bronze. I know I would be just as excited!! I will be thinking with hooves crossed for your friends Z. I too, as Sue Fredrick spoke of, I am so grateful to know that the Farrish’s are holding on to dear A.P. Indy. I was with my dear friend when we were able to be up close n personal with A.P. You can tell, even though of his age, he was an awesome specimen of a stallion and race horse. Z, he was gentle, like you. Bernadini appears to be like that too. My hooves/fingers will be crossed for you when you see handsome Bernadini! Go and have fun with your girlfriends and enjoy your freedom outside Z!! I just got back from my grandaughters 9th B-day. There were other children there; and for 2 hours, or it seemed like it, we all played “Kick ball”. I enjoyed it so much but I think I need some of your liniment rub. (getting stiffer by the minute)ha, but true! I would not know what I would do without this connection to you Z! I do love you so, and I am just in awe how Ann,Jerry,Dottie,& John have treated us.
Love with a kiss on your soft nose.
Linda Henderson
Oh what a wonderful day! I am just so happy to be in the 32 and be associated with Team Zenyatta and Zenyatta fans. A great group to be a part of!
KIMBERLY
Hi Queen, Sorry Mr. Commons didn’t win today…They ALL can’t be like you……. Good luck to the remaining contestants… Everyone on this website are wonderful people……..
Char
Bummer…I didn’t make it past the 64, but that’s OK. I still have fabulous memories of seeing Zenny race in person and I have lots of photographs I took. Good luck to the remaining 32 :)
susan
congrats to the 32! watched the races today and while i was at it, i re-watched your races,Z,and got cold chills all over again! you are so special and so are your people. i thought mike and mr. commons ran a really good race. congrats to your john!
Holly Zemba
Congrats to the 32 and I can’t wait to get to Keeneland!!!
sandra gomez
DEAREST ZENYATTA, I SENT MY CARDS EARLY AND OF COURSE, I WASN’T IN THE TOP 64 OR 32. I HAVE NEVER HAD GOOD LUCK IN ANYTHING I TRY. I SURE AM HAPPY FOR THE ONES THAT HAVE MADE IT THIS FAR! CONGRATS TO ALL OF YOU. LOVE YOU ZENNY FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!! TAKE CARE SWEET, BEAUTIFUL GIRL! GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR BERNIE!!
S (in san diego)
Congratulations all top 32!! I had planned to be at Santa Anita today,but sometimes plans just don’t work out:( But like Dawn, got to enjoy the Masters and Great Racing from the comfort of my family room with my dog beside me. Was somewhat shocked by Mo, but still beleive he will be the one to bet in May. Hope that Mr. Commons will be there also (he is still learning) and that Comma To The Tops connections will change their mind and give him a shot. While there were several upsets, it was a great day of racing. Sweet Dreams everyone.
Molly
Zenyatta, wonder if we will have a Triple Crown winner this year…Couldn’t tell if Mike Smith was full throttle or not with Mr. Commons today. Oh, for another race horse like you to watch for a few years. In the mean time, Zenyatta on YouTube is the Best Show in town. Sweet Dreams, Horse of the Year.
Valarie Franklin
I can’t believe I’m still in…
I’m so sorry for those of you who aren’t in the running anymore or didn’t get a chance to send a card in. I am so glad for Zenyatta and her Team and this website. She’s still making life exciting, even in “retirement”. :)
Jan
Loved your birthday pictures, especially the one where you are chewing on the carrot. “Where’d everybody Go” was so cute. Bless you for bringing so much happiness to the world. You are a character, a ham and an angel all rolled into one and I love you for it.