Good Morning All,
I am just getting ready to leave Barn 55 at Hollywood Park and go to the plane. I can’t thank everyone enough for the kindness, generosity and love you have all shown me during my racing career.
We have had a terrific ride together…20 fabulous races over a 3 1/2 year span. I have been able to travel and visit with so many wonderful people. I have made so many wonderful friends.
Last night I spent some time just thinking about how GREAT it has been. I looked outside and saw the wonderful area I have grazed on for years. I have shared it with so many loving friends: After Market, Life is Sweet, Tiago, Giacomo, Zardana and Harmonious to name a few. It has been a blast!
Yesterday’s ceremony at Hollywood Park was so special. So many of my dear fans came to greet me. I had fun looking at everyone in the paddock, up on the stairs, and in the balcony. Then walking to the track for the last time…was a bit emotional…for me. I knew I wasn’t running…as all of my normal pre-race stuff was not happening…and my dear Mario…was not wearing a NUMBER. (That was a big clue.) I paraded and went to the Winners’ Circle…even did an encore for my 2 presentations from the Dodgers and the San Pedro Winners’ League. It was special!
John is looking at me now. It is time to bundle up (I’m going to heavy coat weather….good thing I have a great wardrobe)…and get on the van.
My 2 dear friends are in the picture in this post…Dottie and Sophie enjoying the night on my ‘grazing grass’.
I will miss everyone…HUGS, HUGS, HUGS!
Again…THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU…for EVERYTHING!
I will keep in touch! I would not miss visiting with all of you for anything.
Blessings to all!
With love,
Hugs~
Z
Robin
Oh lovely girl…I have watched your parade at Keeneland over and over. You are so amazing. It was so obvious how loved you are by the quiet respect everyone showed you. They understood that you just had a long flight and showed you LOVE in many ways. I am so glad that you are safe. I am also relieved that Mario is staying for a little while with you. I know it must be hearbreaking for him, but we are all so appreciative that he is doing that. MANY THANKS to Jerry and Ann Moss and all of Team Z for their dedication, and their recognition of the devotion of thousands of people to Zenyatta. We are praying for a smooth transition for our girl. Words are not enough to express how grateful we all are that you shared her with us. We are all better for it.
Kathryn Cogswell
Today I tried doing what someone once told me a grown-up does: hold opposing positions at once, balancing head & heart. In an interview John Shirreffs gave, he spoke about the lessons of his war service, and what he’d learned while working his way up, under senior trainers — although he’d loved and been around horses all his youth. [Paraphrasing here] the lessons were to use your thinking capacity where emotions might get in the way & later, how different from most successful business people Jerry and Ann Moss were — patient and in complete agreement with his plans for Zenyatta [and Giacomo before that]. So, with a knot inside about her best future, I’m trusting a sound, compassionate pattern they all have established, and how that template for her career placed her in an entirely different dimension from anything even casual racing buffs have seen and known . .. Why even Bob Baffert cheered himself hoarse over the successes of this mare. A lot of why this conversation has meant so much to so many is a fundamental faith surrounding and supporting Miss ‘Z’ and, finally, this little thought comforts me: if racing is going to improve, it has to be because of a consensus for fundamental change, the most persuasive example of which has been exhibited by this loving group of people nurturing a great creation in her training, but then going on to contribute to the improvement of the breed. (in `way over my head here). For the present, I am content to rest it there, but as Melissa says, lots of people care about this fine, Big Girl, and that’s comforting too. Thank you all for that. Khc.
Kathryn Cogswell
Today I tried doing what someone once told me a grown-up does: hold opposing positions at once, balancing head & heart. In an interview John Shirreffs gave, he spoke about the lessons of his war service, and what he’d learned while working his way up, under senior trainers — although he’d loved and been around horses all his youth. [Paraphrasing here] the lessons were to use your thinking capacity where emotions might get in the way & later, how different from most successful business people Jerry and Ann Moss were — patient and in complete agreement with his plans for Zenyatta [and Giacomo before that]. So, with a knot inside about her best future, I’m trusting a sound, compassionate pattern they all have established, and how that template for her career placed her in an entirely different dimension from anything even casual racing buffs have seen or known . .. Why even Bob Baffert cheered himself hoarse over the successes of this mare. A lot of why this conversation has meant so much to so many is a fundamental faith surrounding and supporting Miss ‘Z’ and, finally, this thought comforts me: if racing IS going to improve, it has to be because of a consensus for fundamental change, the most persuasive example of which has been exhibited by this loving group of people nurturing a great creation in her training, but then going on to contribute to the improvement of the breed. (in `way over my head here). For the present, I am content to rest it there, but as Melissa says, lots of people care about this fine, Big Girl, and that’s comforting too. Thank you all for that. Khc.
Kathryn Cogswell
Oops. Double click.
Erin
Zenyatta and family, thank you for everything, it has been a marvelous ride! I am sad to see it end, but grateful for the time we had. I am better for the experience!
Julie B.
Glad to see you arrived safely. We had a great time at Hollywood Park. Well worth the quick trip and long drive. Great memories for my daughter and lots of jockey autographs. How lucky were we to pull up in the valet parking just as Mike was getting out of his vehicle. He walked right over to us, set the shoes he was carrying and cell phone in the back of my car and took pictures with us! And that was the second time he did that for us. We caught him on Saturday too! Zenyatta and Mike, you are both one of a kind. Thanks for the memories! Love to you all.
sue
Zennie…I know you are settling in with Mario and Steve there to help you. Updates will soon follow…there is much excitement surrounding you now in your new home. Sleep well tonight. Hugs from Va.
Sandra Ryan
Has anybody heard from Zenny to day? Did she arrive ok? Maybe she is froze. Maybe she is running all the way back to California. I am worried!
ROBIN BEERS
I understand the concern for the broodmare situation, it’s a little frightening. Winning Colors was still being bred at 23. She got colic and the was how her life ended. It is all very sad. As a horseowner myself I wish all horses could have a real home where they have lots of love, attention, and a place to wander around with and without a saddle. “Z” would make a wonderful pet and/or showhorse. Maybe someday…
Crystal Howell
We will miss you here in California Queen Z but we will always remember the smiles you put on our faces and the inspiration you have given to so many!! You have filled my heart with joy and amazement. Thank you Zenyatta and family for the wonderful ride!! Your definitely Heaven sent!! I know you will enjoy your new home.
With all my Love
Your crowd controller ;)
Crystal Howell from Crown Royal Farm
S
For all those concerned about Zenyatta new life … If we stop thinking what we want and assuming that we know her better then those around her….we might realize that in her world the idea if green lush pastures to graze or run or sun bathe whenever she wants, warm stall on cold nights, summer breeze soon to follow, no more bit in the mouth, friends to hang with, 2 legged friends to visit and to be a mom! I think she nay adjust much quicker then we will! There will be plenty of people making sure she is treated well and happy! Have fun Zenny… U deserve it, you have given us all so much!
Bob Rose
While browsing all of the comments, tears spilled. I have waited a lifetime to finally see perfection in a thoroughbred…and was it ever worth the 72 year wait! Zenyatta has brought me more comfort, peace and joy as I would’ve ever imagined possible. Seeing the love she has brought out among her fans, wow, what a tribute. Now I’m going to try and save my tears for when a movie is made about her. I can only imagine how hard I will be bawling if they include the background of Master Trainer John Shirreffs, as he made it home safely from the Viet Nam war and HOF jockey Mike Smith as he went through such painful and long lasting therapy after a near fatal spill broke his back. Guarantee both would agree the horrors they both endured was worth the reward of being such an important factor in the life of the greatest thoroughbred ever foaled. I’m sure everyone else involved in her life feel the same way about any tough times they too have experienced. Many of the other comments on here brought me to tears, as does Liza G. Fly’s tribute song to Zenyatta, but the following line from Jennifer Adelman’s comments sent me running for more Kleenex. “You will have your own little baby to play with as an awesome mother I know you’ll be.”
Socorro
How is Zenyatta doing? Mario? Team Zenyatta? Our love goes out to Zenyatta and her team.
Snoprinz
I’m so worried about Zenny being a broodmare. She was (and still is) a super racehorse so I don’t know how easily she will adjust to her new role. Is there any regulation as to how many times a mare should be bred or a stallion should stand in stud? Is the well-being of a retired racehorse even addressed at all?
Zenny, I pray for your safety and happiness. Tell me you brought your laptop with you so you can continue your posts and keep us informed. I will keep on checking.
Tania
Z,
I’m so worried about how you will do without Mario. Can you please be sure to diary note about your last day with him. I just read that he was going to spend some time there with you until you are comfortable. I’m sure this is going to kill him when he has to leave. Pictures too! Please…..
Lisa g
Ms Zenyatta, Good Morning. I hope that you are still receiving the posts. I hope Sarah wlll help you with your diary soon, as we are all anxious to hear from you. I understand they have decided to breed at the first part of the year. Do you know who the unworthy male is yet? Keep warm, eat all that blue grass, my Queen. I love you, Lisa g.
Zen-Fan
I agree with Kathryn Cogswell’s post 12/8…I think the Mosses have an enormous opportunity to show those “Neigh-sayers,” that there is A LOT OF LOVE in the horse racing industry & Zenyatta is a perfect example of what can happen when a horse is appreciated, loved, respected & handled with “white-gloves,” as she should be! She is a true blessing to all of us. For those that question whether or not her becoming a broodmare, I think we have to at least settle for trying it once. I have No Doubt in my mind, that if this arrangement with Lane’s End is nothing but of the highest integrity, Zenyatta will be on a plane back to California! The Mosses & Shireff’s have proven how much they love this horse & to stop rallying for her now is where the “true defeat” will be, not on the racetrack. Zenyatta’s first foal will be awaiting in the winds of thousands of fans & so much publicity will be surrounding this event, that here is the chance to show those with doubt that there is a lot of love in the horse racing industry. We love you Zenyatta. Cannot wait for updates.
linda dunn
The tribute by Gary Moulton said it best and most eloquently. If only for the void alone, Zenyatta should be Horse of the Year, not to mention the many amazing accomplishments. She is one of a kind and if she is not recognized as such, it will leave a huge scar on the Eclipse awards.
Linda (Canada)
Good morning Z,
I watch the Youtube clip of you and Mario and John in the walking ring at Keenland – I was there many years ago, so I felt a little more like I was “there” seeing you in person! I loved all the signs that the people held up – it looked very COLD and yet I understand 1500+ people showed up – that’s how special you are!
We will be all wating for the next Diary post – say hi to Mario for us!
Debbie
Dear sweet Zenyatta-I know it has only been 36 hours or so since you arrived in Kentucky, but we are all so used to hearing from you every day. Please post us a diary soon so we know all is well with you and what you are doing in your new home. And photos of you there would be a huge bonus. Keep warm sweetie!
Jean Moore
Beautiful Zenyatta, Am anxiously awaiting some news from you i.e. do you like your barn, any new friends, bet you have the best wardrobe of any girls there, and we know you are better looking than any of them so stay in touch sweet one. Much love to you.
Anne
Love the picture of Dottie and Sophie! I think Dottie is the unsung hero in much of Zenyatta’s story! Saw Zenny at Keeneland and watched as Zenny drove off in the horse trailer. Was so very impressed that John rode with her (along w/Mario & Steve). Not too many (any?) trainers, especially of his caliber, would have done that. She was too big for the little 2 horse trailer used to take her to Lane’s End! I’m looking forward to her offspring, but sad she won’t be surrounded by the throngs of people that have come to know and love her. I can’t imagine the sadness John and the barn must be feeling now. Anxious for an update!
Wendy
Will anyone let us know how her arrival at Lanes End went, and how is she doing now? Just curious. I’m also wondering if since Curlin is there, is Rachel also their? She dropped off the map, and I just wondered if they are there together? I don’t suppose you can tell us that though. Thank you for whatever you can tell us though.
Georgia Harper
Waiting to hear more from you Z, haven’t heard anything since Monday. How is everything are you settled in and has your team left you or are they still there?
Sue
Maybe they checked into’ LANES END HOTEL’; decided they didn’t care for it so much after all
; or her quarters were not up to par, or it was too cold,or , or in the final hour, they JUST COULDN’T DO IT ( leave her alone there)…sooo they are making arrangements to ‘bring her home for good..as the final,& most wonderful, winning Christmas present of all to her fans Now THAT would bring us all to, once again, believe in SANTA!!!
We LOVE YOU ZENYATTA !!!!!!!! Sue
Diane B
I hope Zenyatta will be able to see her mother Vertigineux who also is close by. She can tell her what a great race horse she turned out to be.
Diane B
I would love to see a picture of Zenyatta and Vertigineux together again.
Patricia
I think the great part about this website is that we all get to read the loving comments about our dear Zenyatta that helps us get through until Post #25! I know that I check several times a day & love reading everyone’s caring words…
I would not expect to hear from Dottie or anyone at least for another day or two. I am sure that in some way, ALL OF TEAM Z is processing their own emotions & out of respect for them, I guess we will have to honor the time they need because Zenyatta needs their total attention as all of the fine details of her future are being determined. This must be so bitter-sweet for everyone. Even though Zenyatta will be at Lane’s End preparing for motherhood, I think we all share on some level a sense of loss & grief. That is why it is so great that Dottie set this up for us. I love everyone’s posts & now we have to be patient and sometimes that is the hardest thing to do…
Linda Bulger
ZENYATTA HOW ARE YOU????
Sharon Call
Hey, folks: If you haven’t read the latest article in Bloodhorse by Steve Haskin, you need to find it and read it. It’s just wonderful. Also, read the posts after his article. Apparently, there are a whole lot of people out there that are concerned with how Z is going to adapt to being a broodmare and all that is involved in that, including being separated from the team and fans that she so obviously enjoys. I don’t feel so bad about worrying about that since I kow that there are a lot of people (including professionals)that are worried as well. Wish someone would give us a Post #25 so we’d know what’s going on. I also hope it’s not going to be like this from now on since Z is now a “broodmare”. Awful thought!