Good Morning Everyone!
This photo is TOO CUTE! It’s my guy, Mike Smith, who helped us select the FINAL 4 for our ZENYATTA BRONZE CONTEST! Mike stopped by Dottie and John’s last night and held my reins in his hands…just like he did when we were racing. I think this definitely got him IN THE ZENYATTA MOOD to select our Final 4! This photo brings back great memories…for both Mike and I! We had lots of great times together!
The names of the FINAL 4 will be given…along with the thoughts each person expressed as to what I meant to he / she. Go to the bottom of this diary post and click the button next to the person whose entry you think deserves to win. Click the Vote button, and you’ll see the current results.
We will allow the voting to take place for one week. The winner will be announced next Wednesday, April 27th. John will look at the polls before he leaves for the barn that morning (5 o’clock in the morning, CA TIME) and the winner’s name will be posted.
The poll has been moved from the Facebook page to this website so that non-Facebook users may vote!
GOOD LUCK TO ALL 4 OF YOU!
ENTRY #1…..VICKI L. VINSON……APPLE VALLEY, CA I knew Zenyatta was “one” special horse the first time I saw her in person. She came over to me and stuck her nose right in front of my camera. That was before the ’08 Lady’s Secret. Little did I know that a year later she would become the best medicine in the world, in helping me through the worst time of my life. I’ll love you forever Zenyatta!
ENTRY #2…..VALERIE FRANKLIN….DAVISON, MI Zenny, you have made people believe in horse racing again. Our sport has suffered so much tragedy and in this time of economic disaster and with Barbaro and Eight Belles so fresh in our minds, you have given us a chance to escape and to dream. We love you more than you could ever quantify.
ENTRY #3…..GEORGIA HARPER…..BELLEVUE, WA My obsession began half way through your first year and such enthusiasm could not be ignored by my husband. After 49 years, my husband and I have become such good friends but are so busy with work and family we don’t always take time to actually think about one another. As a gift for our wedding anniversary last August, I received an email at work from my hubby with an itinerary attached for San Diego saying “Tickets for my queen to go see the Queen”. We not only had a wonderful day at Del Mar, never leaving the paddock and visiting with so many young people who had been there to see only you but we really enjoyed our time together. I’m not sure what we will do for our 50th this year, but I don’t think it will compete with the happiness we shared last year watching you come across the finish line and celebrating as best friends enjoying not just a horse race but watching the most magnificent thoroughbred ever. We miss you, we love you, and look forward to cheering on your foal.
ENTRY #4…..DAWN CONRAD…..CEDAREDGE, CO Dearest Zenyatta. “Why are you special to me?” Is it the stately stature of the Queen like carriage? Is it the glistening brown coat with the diamond dapples? Maybe it is the dance or those still moments with your head held high? Is it your intelligence and fathomless brown eyes? Was it your first run free or perhaps a camera-ride on the back of Pegasus? Is it posters in the stands, a warm crowd on a cold Kentucky night, the excitement you bought back to racing? Your place in its history and future, the Breeders Cup, 60 Minutes, Horse of the Year, Vox Populi Award? A Fred Stone portrait, Jamie Corum lithograph, Nina Kaiser bronze? The cheers I shouted the tears I shed? Certainly your beauty, power, grace, breathe taking speed, final kick, heart stopping finishes and 19/1. Absolutely your gut wrenching, never give up, try! It is all of this, yet more. It isn’t only who you are, but what you mean to each of us. With Team Z, you are Jerry and Ann’s pride and joy, John’s soul mate and patient masterpiece, Dottie’s muse and she your voice. Mike’s talent, guidance and prayers brought you home safe each race. At Barn 55, you had care from Mario, workouts with Steve, walks with Carmen, loving star struck visitors and kisses from all. At Lane’s End, paddock pals, peppermints, pears and precious motherhood. Your family embodies the word generosity and together you have been transformative. You give pure happiness to thousands. You are a horseman’s ideal, a child’s dream, a friend to charities, a moment of healing to someone ill, a smile in the face of sadness, a sweet memory to all those you meet and a wish of all those that you haven’t “including myself”. While totally unique, I see in you the memories of my youth: the Black Stallion, Flicka, Secretariat and my Cinder (a gift from a brother leaving for Vietman), live again. There were endless summer days of best friends, bareback rides, Breyer’s horses on the bedroom shelves and glorious Triple Crown winners. With you, I am that horse loving girl again. What fun! I have my own challenges in life, as everyone does. While I seek to remain positive there are those moments. You are there to lift my spirits and touch my soul. Your diary is a place of remarkable civility where information, support and all things Zenyatta are shared and celebrated. Facebook, over 70,000 and still counting! The experience has been once in a lifetime and continues to be a magical ride. In the end my love cannot be fully explained, it is simply heart felt and joyful. It is no mystery why the word “angel” is used to describe you, for you are a creation of God, a blessing to us all and a remarkable gift. For everything you are and everything you mean, Zenny, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are truly UNBELIEVEABLE! As always, sweet dreams. Hugs and kisses. XXXOOO
Wow! I hope you enjoyed reading these as much as I did! Dottie commented that she was literally in tears typing them for ME!
Vote for the ENTRY of YOUR CHOICE!
Blessings to All OF YOU who participated in this contest! I can’t THANK YOU ENOUGH for ALL OF THE LOVE AND KINDNESS you have shown ME!
With Love,
Hugs to ALL~
Z
Paula Higgins
Sorry, I meant to say Linda in NJ!
Julia B
Thinking about you dear Zenny and you too Dottie ! Good Night all !
MaryAnn Donahue
Congratulations to the final four!
What a great pix of Mike Smith holding your reins. You and he were the perfect team and I know he loved you much more than as a winning mount. I had the great privilege of meeting him after Breeders’ Cup 2010 and he was so gracious signing the poster I had of you while expressing how much he cared.
Sending best wishes to you, your Z Team and to the finalists. Good luck.
Love you and all you do Zenyatta!
Mary Ann
Janie
@ judy berube: I read an article in the NY Times about the Broadway show of War Horse and that Steven Spielberg is making it into a movie. The article was really about the original book written in the 1980s and it sounds so endearing and wonderful. It just shows how precious horses are and the relationship between horses and their humans is so special and sweet. Apparently, the Broadway show has large puppets for the horses and somehow still comes across well – but I’m really looking forward to the movie, because of course they’re using real horses and Spielberg knows how to produce and direct a great movie…
MaryAnn Donahue
To Paula Higgins,
What you write about Zenyatta and our renewed appreciation for her accomplishments is so true for how I feel. I fell in love with Z the first time I saw her race. She took my breath away and I write that as a racing fan who was lucky enough to witness Secretariat. Z and he are my all time favorites.
I’ve enjoyed reading your posts on the BH blogs Paula, and like you I am going through severe Zenyatta withdrawal. Racing seems so flat without her presence, without being able to anticipate her next race. She and her wonderful team are the best thing to happen to racing in a long time and I do think the mold was broken when Z was born, that her deep closer winning style might well never be duplicated. She was UNIQUE and I so appreciate reading about how others love and honor her. Thank you for your words about and appreciation for Zenyatta.
Jane in Seattle
@MaryAnn Donahue,
I was in this evening’s Night School (Horseplayer Now) class this evening. Jerry Bailey was a guest and he was asked if he thought it was true, Mike saying that he lost the BCC race, not Zenyatta. I loved his answer: he said, no, Mike fell on his sword for a mare he loved, Mike did everything he could.
A professional opinion from one of the greatest jockeys ever. No doubt in my mind how much Mike Smith loves Z.
Good night all, better days ahead =-)
judy berube
Dear Janie:
So true. The movie will be able to capture so much more than a stage production can, especially with real horses. Looking forward to it too. Hugs, Judy and Russ
audreyc
@Paula Higgins – How many 2 year old wonders, fail to fire as they once did, at 3 years old? I often think that 2 year olds, for the most part, are just too young…but, what do I know? There have been some, but, history seems to tell a story. At any rate, I really like Uncle Mo, and I wish him the best. I also like Mucho Macho Man, very much – probably for the story behind him. He is a very young horse, considering his foaling date. The derby will be interesting to watch. As for Zenyatta, I think we all await some news on her, from her connections. She has been, and continues to be, such a gift.
Paula Higgins
Thank you Mary Ann Donahue! Yes, we are all missing the excitement and drama she brought to racing. Her personality was so huge. There will never be another like her. Sometimes people project their feelings onto animals and as a consequence, anthropomorphize them. In her case, she really had these human-like qualites and attributes. She has left a void that cannot be filled. Thank the LORD for Youtube, that’s how I get my Zenny “fix” everyday.
DJ
Hi Shari V.!
Happy you got the call today. Secretariat.com did everything. A lovely lady named Christa worked it all out. Thank YOU for all that you do. One of my close friends is a Third Grade Teacher and it is always a joy to offer a treat now and then for her 34 ‘little ones’ throughout the year :) It is obvious that you put your heart and soul into your profession as well. Many “S” and “Z” blessings, to a lovely teacher who makes learning fun, this ones for you!
Paula Higgins
Audreyc, yes, you are so right about being a brilliant 2 year old and then the others catch up and speed past by the time they are 3 year olds. I am hoping this is not the case with Uncle Mo. I hope, at the very worst, it was a distance limitation and they just need shorter races for him. Mucho Macho Man is in my top three for the Derby. He is a wonderful, solid horse. The other is Dialed In as of right now. Truth be told, I think we will have to see reports on how they actually look just before the Derby. Often one or two will stand out. Steve Haskin also like Pants On Fire. Let’s face it, in a 20 horse field anything can happen when you do not have a dominating horse.
audreyc
@susan in tn
Thank you for this most amusing story of Prince Charles, being catapulted over his mount, by an overly helpful, and concsientious guide. This imagery was quite entertaining, and certainly inspired several chuckles. I do love the diversity within this site – a forum wherein we can share funny stories, sad stories, information, a reverance for the mare Zenyatta, who, without her human support system, would not necessarily have reached her incredible status. It is not perfect, but it certainly is worthwhile.
audreyc
@ Paula Higgins – Yes, saw Steve Haskell’s report – Pants on Fire. I guess, from my perspective – bring ’em home safely.
Jackie
Good Evening Queeb “Z”.
It was a priviledge seeing you run your 17th and 19th race at Hollywood Park and what a thrill it was. There were tears of joy and elation from everyone in the crowd!
Standing in the paddock for hours waiting for you to arrive is something I will never ever forget. There was a excitement and a connection I think each and everyone of us felt. I can’t remember the last time I felt this much excitement at Hollywood Park. Too bad they will be tearing it down. I would love to see the likes of you in bronze at the front gates!
Needing my Zenyatta fix I pulled out my Breeder’s Cup DVD with all your 19 races. I think I have worn it out! I sit there everytime with tears in my eyes knowing how very lucky in my lifetime to have witness something so great! You are truly a gift. You and your connections are to be thanked and commended for allowing the public into their world.
I hope everyone at Lane’s End is safe and out of harms way. It has been awful weather and I certainly hope it clears up for Derby Day.
Looking forward to the Oaks and Zazu. I am sure your family can’t wait to see you! Miss you and hope everyone is safe.
Hugs and Kisses
Jackie
Sunny Boyd
Good night Zetty,
how do you like this talk about there’s no racing to be discussed on your site? I bet that gets a good snort, where do people think your reason for being started, what do your people do for perks, what puts the butter & bread and doggie-bones on the Shirreffs’ table, of course little Sophie Shirreffs has her own little table for the doggie-bones, what’s the dude holding your reigns do for a livin’? And I bet a mouthful of that good Kentucky Blue Grass, that if you saw the video with Secretariat winning the Derby or his last race you’d be wheeheeing and buckin’ and runnin’ the fence of your paddock in honor to the greatness of the sport examplefied by the both of you and all the other great race horses past & present & future. According to DRF the horse racing industry is in trouble in most of the country, with the exception of Florida. Not to discuss racing and the progress of your barn buddies is a bit rediculous.
And people are right to come here to have their spirits lifted by remembering and commiserating about you, and enjoy a little distraction from whatever, but on the other hand you’re not a dumping ground of the human condition, for the morbidly interested either.
Good night, and sweet dreams of all your favs. :) :) :)
Mike
Well, well -looks like the Devil’s in the house. Go back to hell where you belong and bring your vile comments with you! Only good works are here today. You obviously are attracted to dissention and fighting and were looking for some. Sorry, there is none to be found for your enjoyment. I am not afraid of your mispelled words of nonsense and garbage and will not sit quietly if you disparage the Mosses, Sherriffs, Zenyatta or this website. You are what I scrape off of my front door with a shovel before I step out. You are neither a horseman or gentleman and are out of your element.
My sincere apologies to the ladies here …BigMike47
Mike
Good nite to all
Vicki B.
Well, to quote from Forrest Gump (if I’m correct) “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” That’s pretty much what I’ve come to expect here. A lot of great horse and Zenyatta-related thoughts and information. And some just strange. I hope some of you do not just “walk away”, but I do understand the feeling.
@Kitei, thanks for your mention of the film “The Horse Boy”, I will have to check it out.
@Margaret, again, I enjoyed what you wrote about marestare and your readings about breeding and foaling, it’s interesting.
@susan in tn – I liked the story about Prince Charles, I’m sure I will watch at least some of the “big event” this coming weekend. And since I heard the Queen’s horses are at LE when she comes to the U.S., of course I wonder if and when the Queen will meet the Queen.
@ENSIGN, @L.S. As always, good to see you again, and welcome, whenever you come back. Night, all.
Dani
Still looking for that Derby horse to follow? Maybe Mucho Macho Man is the one for you. His story is sure to be the feel good story of the Derby (tissues please):
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http://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/road-to-kentucky-derby-has-innumerable-twists-and-1392124.html?printArticle=y
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MMM now also has his own billboard. Check out his FB page. Thanks to J Smith for the heads-up.
Dani
Check out some of the nurse mare foals recently rescued by Last Chance Coral. Please read more about what this nonprofit organization does to rescue, rehabilitate and find homes for these little orphans. Lots of lovely photos. Such sweet little babies.
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http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?fbid=2005652185891&set=o.45502380989&type=1&theater
SUE
AS WE ALL CELEBRATE OUR LOVE FOR ZENYATTA EVERY DAY, PLEASE LET US NOT FORGET ANOTHER HORSE WHOSE BIRTHDAY IS COMING UP – THE GREAT BARBARO.
Lisa g
Ms Zenyatta, a wonderful, beautiful, morning to you and your girlie friends. Hope all is well, hoping a small word from Aunt Dottie on the 27th about you as well as the winner of the contest. I love you forever, and will talk to you later…Lisa g
susan in tn
enjoyed the different links posted above- thank you, everyone! War Emblem was a hoot, wasn’t he? there was a mare where we used to keep our horses whom we called “cranky bonnie” because her ears were perpetually back, no matter what. she didn’t seem to like anyone of any species EXCEPT her two little girl owners. she absolutely adored them! they could do no wrong and all they had to do was ask and she would do whatever they wanted. it was TOO CUTE! i guess i should add that she was not a kicker or biter- just didn’t want to be fooled with!
@ LAURA J: keep us updated on your horse’s progress! how exciting! by the way, what is a “gate card” ?
@ SHARI V: good luck to your kids today- 2 1/2 hours of a reading test seems REALLY long for 10-year-olds!
@ TEAM Z: bless all of you- do you know how special you are?
@ ZENNY: love you
Shari Voltz
Good morning Queen Z. The children are hard at work taking their OAT Reading test. They have water and treats to keep them fueled. I hope you have a sunny day in Kentucky. We have bright sunshine right now Yea! The children and I send our love with Hugs and Many Kisses. Shari and Homeroom 215 XXXOOO
@I wanted to say that I am learning a lot about racing from this site. I am going to cheer for Uncle Mo for the Derby. I think he has a beautiful face :) GO MO GO!!
Barbara Wood
Good luck to all the Final 4. I really feel that all the cards were written from the heart, and I would gladly buy a copy if they could be put into a booklet of some kind.
Like many others, I’m clueless about the Derby. That is not like me at all. Guess I’d better get busy reading issues of Bloodhorse that have stacked up.
Lauren
Dear Zenny – Hope you had a blessed Easter!! Good luck to the final four contestants. You all did a great job. Zenny, I hope you are rooting for the Lakers like ME. Hooves crossed that they win their 1st round. Love you beautiful girl. xoxoxo
Sue and Tony
Zenny, we hope you are safe and comfy at LE today. The weather in Louisville has been terrible…the bluegrass will be over your fine head once the growing season is in full swing…especially with all the rain. Tell Dottie we are anxious for your next diary entry tomorrow. It’s been such a long week waiting for news from you again.
LauraJ
@Susan in TN, love your story about the mare. It’s funny how some animals just know that they need to be tolerant of human puppies/.foals/kittens. Zenyatta is said to be great with children, even allowing them to play around her legs. Some of the retired stallions at Old Friends are real “kid horses.” Anyway, as you probably know since you’ve been around them, horses don’t like enclosed spaces. A starting gate is a scary place for a horse, and it takes training for her to become acclimated to it. In order to race, a horse must be able to load into the gate without too much fuss. She must stand quietly while the other horses are loaded. She must then break from the gate when the doors open, without hurting herself, bumping the other horses, or smashing the jockey into the gate. A “gate card” certifies that the horse is able to do these things safely. Do you remember Quality Road’s freakout prior to the 2009 Breeders Cup Classic? Even though he was an experienced racehorse, he had an attack of claustrophobia that day. He and/or the starters could have been killed or severely injured. He had to be re-schooled following the incident. John Shirreffs has some videos of gate schooling on his YouTube channel (jonshfs05).
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@Barbara Wood, LOL! I think EVERYBODY is clueless about the Derby this year. There have been the usual injuries plus quite a few upsets in big races. Uncle Mo was the clear favorite until he came in third in the Wood. Then The Factor lost a race he wasn’t supposed to lose. Horses like Toby’s Corner and Brilliant Speed suddenly popped up on the radar. It also looks like Master of Hounds will be crossing the Atlantic to run in the Derby. So we shall see.
jcs
I just can’t read all that posting and really believe all that mess. Whatever, all I am wondering is why we are not getting any post on Zenyatta. Really, privacy and rest is great for her but throw us a bone, we are not there disturbing her. After all, the fan base made this all a reality. Just think, why are we so fixated on Zenyatta!! She has found her way into a great deal of all of our lives but if this is how the Mosses or Dottie needs it to be this so be it. Uncle Mo is really cute and this derby is up for grabs so why not support the racing industry by pulling for horses that need fans!!!! Her story is one of greatness but we need to support all of them because not all of them will have such a great ending.
Eveline
@ Kathy P -our friends saw Warhorse and gave it rave reviews (they are horsepeople.) They say it’s a must see. @ Vicki B. – It’s the Queen of England herself that stays at L.E. when she is in KY ,not her horses so I guess there is a possibility there. Who would’t want to see Queen Z.?