Good Morning to all,
Yippee! As I mentioned yesterday, I had my first official veterinarian check-up here at the farm. This is done so they can get a baseline on me and get to know everything about me and how my body works. It is equivalent to you going for your regular check-up…just to be sure all is A-OK! Well, I am very happy to report that I am in FABULOUS SHAPE! Everything about me is just WONDERFUL! Great news! (I kinda’ knew this…but it is always great to have this confirmed.)
My feet were also checked…and I am doing very well BAREFOOT! Also good news! These are just the basic things that need to be done for me….just like you. The Dentist will be next…and I will keep you posted on that.
A woman working in our office, Selena, is about to have a baby. I think she is due on Friday…from what I’m hearing. Good luck, Selena! We will be thinking about you and wish you well!
Several of you had questions about ‘my having a baby’ in your comments. Hope the following information proves helpful to you. As we go along, I will explain more things to you about all of this, but for now, please consider this a starting point.
As you know, with humans, a baby is carried for approximately 9 months. For horses, the gestation period is approximately 11 months. Obviously, individual differences always do apply.
In our industry, the breeding season does not begin until mid-February ‘ish’ and lasts until late June ‘ish’. This depends on the individual farm, horse, and owner of the horse. This is a baseline.
Race horses basically have 2 birthdays. I was actually born on April 1, 2004. That is my real birthday and it is recorded on my official records. BUT…with race horses for racing purposes, ALL horses ‘celebrate’ a birthday on January 1st. This way…all 2 year olds will ‘technically be thought of as being a 3 year old’ on January 1st…no matter what date the horse was actually born. As of January 1st, I will ‘technically’ be thought of as a 7 year old…yet, I will really not be 7 until April 1st. (By the way, I just love my birthdate…April 1st. Dottie has a sister, Frannie, who is also born on this date. She calls us her April 1st Birthday EXACTA!)
So, when you go to the race track and see certain races restricted to an age group, this is how the horses fit into that category. For instance, the Kentucky Derby Trail and the Triple Crown is totally restricted to 3 year olds. The individual horses birth dates may vary from January — June, but they are all considered 3 year olds.
Same for the Kentucky Oaks for fillies…all for 3 year olds. Some may be born early in the year…others late…but they are all still considered to be 3. In the Racing Form, they give the MONTH / AGE for each horse. Perhaps when you are looking at the horse and his/her past performance charts in the FORM, this would be something to note as well. Have fun with it!
I’m off to play with Charles. (Several of you have asked, his full name. It is Charles Stewart William Campbell. He is a Broodmare Manager here at Lane’s End.)
Have a splendid day!
With love,
HUGS TO ALL!
Z
Roxanne Cook
Good to hear all this wonderful news! I read in Blood Horse that it takes about 60 days for a racing mare to let down, so looks like you’re right on schedule. And I’m glad to know you’ll be meeting your pasture mates one at a time so it won’t be a big deal to see which one of you is the ALPHA mare. Yeah, I have cowhorse bred mares and I know for sure who the alpha is in my group cuz she treats the other two like cattle! I know you’ll be nicer to your friends, right? Good luck with the dentist; if you need a float, make sure you get some good drugs … hehe
debbie gustafson
Thank you,,, so much for the posts daily on Zen, Dottie you are so special and have made so many people happy from letting everyone who loves Zenyatta, keep up with her after all her fame ,,,Thank you from the bottom of my heart ,for all you have done ,,,She is so precious to our family , Her pic hangs in my living room where all can see,,such beauty,, God Bless you and Mr. Moss,,,Merry Christmas, from my family to Zen”s …………….
Linda (Canada)
Hey Dancing Queen Z…guess what I got in the mail today….a beautiful T-shirt from the V foundation with a beautifaul picture (of course) of YOU #4 winning the BC Classic 2009, when you ran a heart-stopping race and threaded your way thru those MALE horses and blew all your critics away! That must surely be the BEST DAY EVER for the Moss’, John and Dottie, Mario and Carmen, Steve, Mike…everyone on board for Team Z…I am a “Roberto” fan..we had a filly years ago in Canada by Screaming Fife who was by Roberto, who was a really good runner in England. The reason I am mentioning Roberto is that your dam Vertigineux is by Kris S, who is by Roberto……AND oddly enough the dreaded Blame…what a prophetic name! is Kris S on his top line….so it was a “Roberto” BC…except of course I would like the winner and 2nd place to be reversed. I just think it’s cool how the champions come thru’ …like “AP Indy” – he’s by Seattle Slew(Up to now – before “Z”) my fav and on the bottom,,,,a Secretariat mare…so the bloodlines come thru always. :)
Sarah Powell
Another good post – love hearing about what is going on with Queen Z but still want more pictures – can’t get enough of watching her move about – she really is something!!
Joan
Hi Zen, motherhood, well it has it’s good points and it’s bad points,kids.AP, is a little old now, unless he is a charmer like Cary Grant, Curlin, oh no, not a JJ horse, Pleasantly Perfect, unless they hope to downsize the frame, So much to consider. Whoever, the little foal will be precious.
Stay safe and may Barn 55 and all of LE and your girlfriends in the barn have a wonderful Christmas. You’ll have a beautiful White Christmas Zenny!!
Stephanie Quilichini
So Great you had a A+ checkup! Two things -can we learn more about Charles-seems like a great person since he works with Horses!and everyone wants to know the stallion in your life-when would you know that:) Thanks again for taking the time to keep your fans updates-it is truly appreciated!!!!
Quarterhossgal
Z we knew your were in perfect health by just looking at your great hair coat. Have you received all the Christmas cards your fans have sent? My horse has a Santa stocking that we fill with miniture carrots, apples and peppermints, have told him about Guiness!!
Gloria Jeanne
Prince Charles- I LOVE IT!
joan c. stevenson
Every day I can’t wait to read your post and yes I do have a life but fortunately you are there to cheer me up. Zenyatta they say horseracing isn’t for all but thank God I got to meet you and you are forever stamped in my heart and memory. I will never ever forget seeing that big old jet land in Hot Springs and will never forget the butterflies I got when we saw you. You are special Big Girl and don’t ever forget that!!
Kathleen Burnham
It is only fitting that Charles sounds like royalty, he does in fact spend all of his time with THE Queen!!! Glad all reports from the Vet were good and that you are comfortable without your shoes!! Just think, no more nails in your feet!! Thank You for the update, talk to you again soon!! Love you “Z”!!!!
Henrietta Wolfe
Athlete, dancer, friend, a lady and teacher. You are fabulous. All of us are getting quite a lesson about horses. I love it. Before I forget, I hope Selena names her baby Zenny or if it’s a boy he could be Zen. I love it. I wish her well. You have so many nice new friends but why wouldn’t you. I love you and I have not seen you in person yet. I say yet because I am coming to Kentucky in the spring just to visit you. It’s a long way from the State of Washington but I will be there. Santa will be coming soon to see you. Do you have a chimney? No matter, he will find you because I know he will have lots of goodies for you. Zenyatta, you are my sunshine and you are always on my mind. I love you!!! More later.xoxoxox
Jean
Hi there, So glad to hear you checked out fine (knew you would) the perfect lady. You must be looking forward to really getting out and having yourself a jog. But no one want’s to see you slip or anything with the snow, so what you are doing make’s ME happy. You make my day reading your Diary. First thing I do everyday is check to see if it is up. I do have a question regarding your Mom, is she also at Lane End? I think she had alot to do with who and what you became. Dad also but Mom needs some of that credit also. Love you Zenyatta now go have a Great Day, Love love love ya
Karen
Too bad Zenyatta is the only new lady in town – as for Mr. Charles Campbell knows every other one in town. He is certainly is not fit to be with any human female, I do not know why they would put him charge of such a QUEEN. Poor Zenyatta- you deserve someone so so much better to be taking care of you!
Lori Stein
Hey Big Z,
I am going on vacation for a few weeks so I want to wish you, your LE family and your family back at Barn 55 Happy Holidays. I am so happy you are adjusting so well. Love the posts and please keep more pictures coming on the website!!! Take care of yourself big girl and I’ll be hearing from you soon. Tell Mom and Dad you would like Tiznow in your Christmas stocking.
Love, Lori
LouAnn Cingel of Union, Missouri
Glad to hear that you checked out AOK Zenyatta! Like coming here and reading your updates telling us all out here in fanland what is going on with you. This diary is more than appreciated-thankyou to those who are helping you make it possible.
My Love & Blessings to you Zenyatta!
LouAnn
carrie
And when will the lucky man be announced ??
Gloria Jeanne
Is everyone “friending” Charles on Facebook?
Maueen
Hi Zenyatta,
I love reading your blog. I did not know about the January 1 birthdays…I will celebrate yours on April 1 though.
Love you!!!
M
deana
Thanks so much for all the info. I’m with Susan, reading the posts make my day but I do so enjoy always seeing pics of you. My father was born on April Fool’s Day as well as it is my Mother and Father’s anniversary on that day. Perhaps so Dad wouldn’t forget…hmmmmmmmm? I certainly will never forget you. I read your post that you still get your Guiness beer but do you still have aloe vera juice in your food, that is so important to keep you well. I totally believe in it! Happy Holiday’s Z, I hope you get to see the Moss’.
Jan
Now, we all adore “The Horse Of The Century”. But, I’d like to know what everyone thinks her chances are of getting Horse of the Year. Plz respond.
jim
i love you z. god bless you
Shari Voltz
Zenyatta I am so glad all came out well. You are such an athletic girl. I also love all this education about horses. I wish I could take a masters class and Dottie could be the professor. I would be so into any homework she gave me. I also want you to tell Charles that he is even more important than the Prince Charles from England because he takes care of YOU. I love you sweet girl enjoy your days outside even though it is cold. Big Hugs and Kisses from Shari in Ohio
Jackie
Queen “Z” I wouldm’t expect anything but perfection from you even your health check-ups are PERFECT! Just like you!
I hear it is pretty cold. Hope they have heaters in your barn! As always I enjoy your updates.
Have they selected a suitor for you? If your human connections select A.P. Indy my son thinks your foals name should be IndyYattaJones! I think it is a pretty clever name. I think your connections should really consider the name! Let’s hope he does better on his Law School finals this week. He spends so much time on the internet I think he could actually write a book about you and your connections.
Stay warm.
Hugs and kisses
Paula Higgins
Well, that was something I didn’t know. 11 months! God Bless you Zenyatta! Can’t wait to see your first foal. So glad the vet is impressed with your health (as well he should be, because you got the very best care in California). I think Charles will take very good care of you and fall head over heels in love with you, just like the rest of the world. How could he not?! You are simply the best. Thanks for the update Dottie and the informative post. They are becoming Horse Racing 101 for many of us.
Emma
Glad you checked out great Queen Z! Btw, my horse’s birthday is April 1, 2000!
Baby Splashie
Hi Your majesty!
Why the long face????
Ha Ha
xoxox
Love Splashie
Glad you are healthy!
Julie
Dottie, I really appreciate all these updates on Zenyatta. I have never fallen in love with a horse like I have with Zenyatta. I was worried sick about her being so far away from California and her family but it looks like the Lane’s End folks are falling in love with her too. Thanks so much for all the updates and information. I don’t worry about her so much…that is until she gets pregnant and then it will start all over again. You will have a lot of nervous nellies waiting on pins and needles for her delivery.
Robbie Pfeufer Kahn
Dear Zenyatta: It is said that there was a time when human and nonhuman animals spoke to each other. As a small child, I did not know about that ancient, ancient time (much less that some living cultures communicate with animals even to this day).
I grew up in New York City on the 14th floor of an apartment building where the only animals I knew lived inside of story books. Horses were my favorite creatures of all. I preferred stories in which animals did not speak because their silence (or at least lack of human speech) made them seem real and trustworthy. Early on I learned that words could hurt, be untrue, or get you in trouble.
So much time has passed since then; I am nearer the end of my life than the beginning. Just imagine—you and I are both retiring, although I will have to wait until spring to stop teaching sociology. By the way, until recently this field neglected the animals who live in our midst. I developed a course called Sociology of Animals and Society, which I will miss teaching. (My spell check just signaled that I should use “that” after animals instead of “who” because animals are not people. In my view, this example shows how we humans still lack proper respect for animals.)
Zenyatta, you and I are both retiring but your mother years are ahead of you, while mine (in the sense of being pregnant and suckling) are behind me. I can tell you one thing, from my experience anyway, childbearing brought me more pleasure and pride than any of my other accomplishments. This good fortune was unexpected as I had been a tomboy who “played horses” constantly—I trotted, cantered and galloped, pawed the ground and whinnied. Even as a nursing mother I sometimes felt like a mother mare—in my view there is nothing quite as lovely as suckling a young one. I am excited for you.
Now, back to the subject of human and nonhuman animals communicating: it seems to me that you and Dottie have re-created a lost ability. Of course the Internet did not exist in ancient times, but that isn’t so important—it’s just the means. The enormous response to your daily Diary Posts, hundreds of posts every day full to the brim with love and with a desire that the diary continue, shows me that we humans have harbored a deep longing to talk with animals. You gave us the opportunity, even before you began the diary. I first learned of you from the New York Times, which said that you had “personality,” a kind of old fashioned word but one worth using. Your personality shone like your beautiful dappled coat—in your dance steps, your kindness toward visitors, and of course in the extraordinary way you chose to win horse races, going from last to first in a manner that was “unbelievable” as the racing commentator shouted about one particular race.
I find myself feverishly eager each day to read your diary entry, as eager as I am to see a photo or video of you at Lane’s End Farm. You’ve caused me to rethink the relation between animals and human words—surely there are better languages than human ones, but they will have to do for now until such time as we can find a common language with our animal friends. Zenyatta, I have written two books, both about unworded communication through touch and signs rather than symbols (Bearing Meaning: The Language of Birth and Milk Teeth: A Memoir of a Woman and Her Dog). My big fear about retiring is that I have as yet no new book in mind. You and Dottie have given me hope that I might find a subject. When you crossed the human/animal boundary on your beautiful long legs and spoke to us, the love and longing you released deserves, in my opinion, some deep thought (besides the sheer delight of it). Believe me, your diary has done more for thinking about that boundary than all the scholarly flurry going on right now in the recent field of Animal Studies.
Much love and respect–Robbie
Bonnie MacRaith
Hi Zenyatta! Last night I had a Guinness Stout and toasted good health to you! The Solstice is coming on the 21st…there will be a full moon and a lunar eclipse. Good time to make a wish. How about Peace and Understanding here on Planet Earth?! I know you wish for that Zenyatta because you are so loving and non-judgmental, there’s not a person you turned down who came to see you. You know you would also make a great therapy horse someday…maybe after you have completed the broodmare job.
Virgil Fox
Thank you for the frequent updates.
Zenyatta looks to be in fantastic shape in all of the pictures and video.
I am not used to seeing so many photos of her without any tack. She is so fit – its like seeing her for the first time. She is spectacular.
I have no doubt she could run 10 furlongs RIGHT NOW if asked.
– Peace