Good Morning,
It is Preakness Week and everyone is very excited about the 2nd Leg of the Triple Crown taking place Saturday. This afternoon, on HRTV, they will show the post position draw. My friend from Barn 55, MR. COMMONS, is running! He was stabled about 3 stalls away from me. I was there when he first arrived as a 2 year old to begin training and then when he ran his first race! I truly want to wish him GOOD LUCK while in Maryland and in the PREAKNESS STAKES.
I’ve heard at this particular race track that you’d like to be somewhat in the middle of the field in the starting gate. The Preakness allows 14 horse to enter…unlike the Kentucky Derby which permits a field of 20. We’ll see who is in the field and the posts when they draw the race later today. SUCH FUN!
It is so interesting to ME to watch races and evaluate them now from this point of view…as an ATHLETE and a FAN…rather than that of being an ACTIVE PARTICIPANT on the playing field.
Dottie was telling ME several years ago, Patrick Valenzuela, who is a very talented jockey, came to the Turf Club one afternoon to watch a few races with her when he had completed his riding assignments for the day. He was watching a race very intently when he made a comment she will never forget!
‘WOW, IT IS SO MUCH EASIER TO “RIDE” THE RACE FROM UP HERE! YOU GET A FULL VIEW OF THE WHOLE FIELD AND WHAT IS HAPPENING. IT IS SO MUCH DIFFERENT THAN BEING ON THE TRACK, IN THE HEAT OF THE MOMENT, AND NEEDING TO MAKE SPLIT-SECOND DECISIONS SO QUICKLY.”
These words really made her think and left an impact. They sound so simple…but actually say so much. From that point forward, every time she would evaluate a particular move a horse or rider would make…in the back of her mind, she would reflect on PVAL’S statement. It truly has great merit…not just in racing, but in life. It is so often easier to comment upon or evaluate something someone else does…but not as easy to accomplish that task when “WALKING IN THEIR SHOES”. Perhaps, it is best to often consider the WHOLE PICTURE.
When I’d be in the midst of running, making moves, inside-outside, going between horses, MIKE had to make so many split-second decisions. Holes open, then they close quickly. The horse in front of you can be making a big move and then suddenly slow down and change momentum. It is so tricky!
When I was running full speed, I was clocked at over 40 miles an hour on Trakkus. (Clement Hirsch/Del Mar) That is why the comment Patrick made is something to reflect upon when watching races, horses, and their performances. There are constant decisions to be made so quickly when you are actually the one running and / or riding the race! The action changes every second! There are many challenges to meet. Racing luck is also extremely important and does play a significant role in all of this! Head up or head down on the finish line can make the difference between winning and being 2nd. ( I can testify to this!) These are the components that truly work together to make HORSERACING such a fascinating sport! I feel totally BLESSED for the part I have been able to play in it!
Thinking of MY BARN 55 Friends today, I wanted to share this photo Mattea Kelley took recently with ME with ISABELLE. She was one of my dear riders while I was in training…and I JUST LOVE THIS PHOTO! If I say so myself, I think we both look TOO CUTE!
With Love,
Hugs to All~
Z
PS…Speaking of the Preakness, as many of you may remember, Patrick rode Sunday Silence to an amazing victory in this race. Per many of the sports writers and fans, this was one of the most exciting finishes ever in a TRIPLE CROWN RACE…and Patrick’s ride was one of true perfection!
Sharon Call
Just love this picture. Z has her eyes closed enjoying the kiss as much as Isabel. This one has gone to my screensavers so that I can enjoy over and over.
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So interesting to read about Pat Valenzuela’s comments. After the last BC Classic, there were so many people criticizing Mike for his ride of Z in that race. I was talking to one person about this and cut him pretty short while he was venting heavily. I told him that it was easy to evaluate a performance from the comfort of your couch or chair but quite another thing to be on the horse’s back on the track surrounded by other horses and dirt being thrown into your and your horse’s faces. Even the sportscasters couldn’t know exactly what it was like. There was only 1 person that could know that and that was Mike. I know that Mike blamed himself immediately after the race and a lot of people said he “threw himself on the sword to save Z’s reputation because she just couldn’t stand up against the boys”. We all know differently than that and the jockeys that ride know differently than that as well. I’ve heard and read people saying they don’t like Blame for winning that race, but that isn’t fair either. It was what it was. Blame was doing his job just as his jockey was. In the long run, Z didn’t lose a thing by losing that race by a nose (about 3 inches). She proved to anyone that has a “good mind”, paraphrasing Don Robinson, that she is a winner in every sense of the word and will go down in TB racing history along with other greats like Man O’War, Seabiscuit, Citation, Secretariet, etc. As far as Mike is concerned, who knows besides him what it was really like out there on that track. Mike did the best that he could with what he had to work with at the time. In my book, Z and Mike are winners forever.
Sorry, I guess I got on my soapbox again.
Susan in TN
What a precious photo-you can just feel the mutual affection! I know your Barn 55 friends must miss you SO MUCH! I cannot imagine what it takes to be a jockey! They make it look too easy. Good luck to Mr. Commons!! Love you!
Jeanie
Dearest Z,
You must be the most beautiful horse that God ever made.
As always,
Your humble J
Terry Crow
Mr. Valenzuela has overcome much in his return to the top of his profession. I wish him continued success. His comment should make us appreciate Mike Smith that much more. Zenyatta’s style of running meant split second timing had to be used and Mike probably needed eyes in the back of his head to recognize when to make the winning move. He isn’t in the Hall of Fame for nothing.
Carolyn
PVals ride on Sunday Silence in the Preakness was amazing. I loved how SS and Easy Goer “dogged” each other all down the stretch. One of the most memorable Preakness Stakes ever!
Sally
Hi Z – Absolutely love the picture AND the “lesson” on Waking in Someone elses shoes!!!
I remember well the Preakness between Sunday Silence and Easy Goer and it was so exciting!!! Easy Goer was the horse I followed that year, and he finally did put Sunday Silence away in the Belmont, but on Preakness Day that year no matter if you were an EG fan or SS fan, they ran their hearts out and gave quite a show in the Preakness that will always be remembered!!!
dunie
There is no way, time or place you would not look cute, Zenny!
Heather Culross
Thanks to Dottie for the wonderful diary entries on Zenyatta’s behalf! I truly enjoy reading these and keeping up with Z’s activities and accomplishments as well as the information on upcoming races and the horses to watch! Zenyatta YOU are just TOO CUTE! Love, love, love you! Hurry up and become a Mom so we can enjoy watching your babies carry on your name :-).
Sharon Call
Just one more short note. WHAT TO DO, WHAT TO DO. Mucho Macho Man is owned by some folks that don’t live too far from me in the north suburbs of Atlanta. I don’t know them, but still, they are almost neighbors. I read Steve Haskins’ blog about MMM and was really impressed by what he wrote (as always).
Now I don’t know if I’m going to root for MMM or Mr. Commons. What a dilemma.
Allen
What a beautiful photo of you and Isabelle. She is one lucky lady to be able to ride and hug you. Have a great day Queen Z.
Lisa g
@Sharon Call: I am on that soapbox with you. Mike beat himself up enough, do not need folks like the one you are speaking of. Blame is one beautiful horse, my opionion is, he got lucky to cross the wire first, our Queen and Blame left all the others in the dirt, Our Queen Wins.
NorCalFan#1
Wow! No kiddin’, Z, that was an exciting race! Two “Pat’s,” head to head, stride for stride, only inches apart–true, gutsy champs! That brings back memories–I was rooting for Silent Silence–California’s champ–all the way! You and he share some relatives, don’t you? I love today’s photo, and I bet we all wish we were in Isabelle’s place.
Can’t wait to see Mr. Commons this Saturday. May they all come home safe and sound…
Lisa g
@Sharon Call: I am cheering Mr. Commons, MMM and Animal Kingdom.
Lise BC, Canada
super photo
NorCalFan#1
Oops, typo, meant SUNDAY Silence…
Bridge
I can’t even imagine being on a horse in a race like that. I ride my horse in a controlled slow canter, and I get scared, and it feels like I’m going too fast!!!! Being all crowded with horses right next to you, making those decisions. Being a new rider, makes me appreciate even MORE what jockeys do. YOU…Miss Zenyatta… look gorgeous with Isabelle in that picture!!! The ‘BIG PICTURE” of you two is LOVE!!!!!
Bridge
GO MR C!!!!!!! Been with ya since the beginning!!!!! I’ve got a feeling about you on Sat!!!!
Jan
Zenyatta,
Such a tender moment with you and Isabelle. You are so gentle and lovable beyond belief. Stay healthy and happy big Mama :)
Max
@Sharon Call. Agree absolutely. You will need a bigger soap box for all of Z’s other supporters to stand with you. Well said.
suew
My, what a gorgeous picture. Both of you are truly enjoying a special moment. I wish I could also kiss that sweet, soft nose.
Abigail from Montreal
Wow Zenny & Dottie. I just loved this post! So interesting to hear about the “best” post position and PVal’s comment. I actually had this thought when we all took a run with you, courtesy of a camera on Steve’s helmet….what a HUGE difference being on the ground on you, travelling that fast — and you were only exercising! At 40 mph to make a split-second decision is almost an “other worldly” experience I would think.
Abigail’s blog, THE VAULT, thought it would be fun to look at a few Preakness winners from the past who won under very different conditions & using very different tactics. Everyone is most welcome to check out the live footage at: http://thevaulthorseracing.wordpress.com/2011/05/17/a-preakness-to-remember/
(THE VAULT already has lots of readers from Zenny’s “posse” and continues to grow!)
You both look lovely in this sweet photo. I think it’s time that somebody made Zenny greeting cards using some of these shots….it would be a great charity item! I do know, of course, just how much Team Z has done and continues to do for charity though. It’s just that the photos of you on here are SO SPECIAL!!!!! Love you, big girl and hope you get to see John & Dottie post-Preakness!!!!
MK
Dottie and Zen, you help bring this sport to an even more exciting level. Thank you, as always, for your behind the scenes insight and experience. AMEN!
shemas
Dear precious Z, It’s hard to explain how I feel when I see pictures like this one with you and Isabelle. You excude so much love and HEART and tenderness! Oh My! You are so extraordinary and photogenic too! I wish I could have photos like this enlarged and on my wall! Have a super day. Hooves crossed and big wink to you!
Really looking forward to the Preakness this Saturday.
Also, think I’ll go on YouTube and watch the replay of Sunday Silence’s win. I love how you’re enjoying talking “shop” about the racing. Really love it!
Lisa g
Good people of Kentucy, I pose a question. I knew about most of the Ladies running in the KY Oaks, as for this Friday’s Miss Preakness I am not so familar with these ladies, and why aren’t the ladies from the Oaks running in the Miss Preakness. It is for the Filly Triple Crown, corect? I think it is unofficial? Please advise. Lisa g.
jeanie langford
AHH. Sunday Silence, had not thought of him in a long time. It wasa great race. Love you Z. Keep us posted
Stephanie J Lambert
Zenny, all your moves with Mikey were Perfect :) A Joy to watch, they made hearts smile :) I still watch them sometimes when I feel like a grin, you are so loved and valued and treasured <3 x0x0x0x0 from Maine
Kimberly Potter
Beautiful Zenyatta~ You are so precious. Thank for the education.(Thanks Dottie)
@Judy Berube~ I left you a message towards the end of dairy post #250.
@All Zenyatta fans~ Have a great Saturday watching all races and the Preakness. Go Mr. Commons and Mikey….praying everyone comes home safe and sound.
Zenaytta’s #1 fan in Montana!
Andrea from Germany
Yes, again Dottie und Zen this very interesting.Thank you for sharing. Loved it. Stay healthy.Love you Zenny.
Stephanie J Lambert
I cannot imagine how much Issabella must miss you :( I am so glad she gets to visit x0x0x0x0
The Kennedys in San Diego
To all those who will be at Pimlico on Saturday — Have a great time!
We are hosting a Preakness Party with the traditional Black Eyed-Susans and crab cakes. All of us will be cheering for Mr. Commons — how great it would be to have the Preakness winner in Barn 55 where we could congratulate him and John personally and hopefully see him race in Southern California. We also like Mucho Macho Man and it is hard to be disappointed if the Derby winner comes through.