To my Dear, Dear Friends,
HAPPY FAN APPRECIATION DAY!
I wanted to take a day and truly THANK ALL OF YOU for being such wonderful fans and friends…not just to ME….but to MY TEAM AND MY SPORT! In reading the comments so many of you post, it is all quite touching!
I absolutely LOVE the way you rally around all of the Z FANS. You have become such friends and are so supportive of each other! I do hope in some way, I have encouraged this to happen and helped to make your day a bit more FUN! One thing for sure, by reading these comments, I do feel many of you have made some very special friendships….and for this I am quite pleased and proud!
So many of YOU are excited about MY LIFE SIZE PAINTING! So am I. As you may have realized, I have not seen it yet…but when MY JOHN says it is MAGNIFICENT….I couldn’t be more proud! Susan, Harold, Sharyn and Linda to name a few….your comments about seeing the painting at MY PARTY are TOO CUTE! I especially laughed when Linda commented that she would ‘swing by’ from North Carolina to come to the party!
As for where the painting will be displayed next, that has yet to be determined. Please offer some suggestions after it is unveiled at the party… and I’m sure MY TEAM will take them into consideration. They are just as excited to see YOUR FACES when it is unveiled…as they were to hear MY JOHN’S reactions to it. Jaime…we are really getting excited about this!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY….Deborah Richman and Charlotte Farmer! May you both (and all others celebrating an October Birthday) have a wonderful year filled with great health, happiness, and many special moments!
I’m still laughing at the comment Joy Bruce made when seeing the photo of MY JOHN laughing as he was standing next to Tiger….”HONEY, I SHRUNK ZENYATTA”. Joy, this is absolutely TOO CUTE!
To Erin, Kari, Alene and Doris McQ…..ALL BLESSINGS to each of you as you are dealing with your health issues! I’m sending each of you a HIGH HOOF and wishing you ALLTHE BEST during these very difficult times in your lives! I’ll be thinking about YOU!
How special of all of you to note that MY MIKIE is helping with saving Scrumpy! You are so aware and so helpful to others. Thank you!
My tail is fine. I know Karla asked about this. I never had a full-full tail. My Mario always had to be very careful when brushing it. It is really pretty much the same now…just a bit lighter due to the sun ‘highlighting’ it now. (The sun did it for free…LUCKY ME!)
MY TEAM’S DEAR GIACOMO…yes, he is in California now. I want to thank JAG/CALIFORNIA for all of the wonderful links she provided to all of the fans about his new home. He is such a beautiful gray horse…and so accomplished having won the KENTUCKY DERBY. What a thrill! I do hope you get to visit him when traveling in the Santa Ynez Valley. I’ve heard it is quite pretty there.
The Chris Antley ESPN piece…I’ve not seen it yet. I hope you get to enjoy it when aired. An interesting fact about Chris I know is that he rode SET THEM FREE when she won a stakes race at Hollywood Park. SET THEM FREE is GIACOMO and TIAGO’S mother. Their 2 year old little sister by Empire Maker is named STANWYCK. She is settled in nicely now at BARN 55. From all reports, she is a very pretty filly!
Delrene…thank you for the link to the L.A. Zoo Article and information on THE TOM MANKIEWICZ CONSERVATION CAROUSEL. The LA ZOO is very dear to my owners. I know they were more than happy to assist with this project for the zoo and its’ many inhabitants. I also did some fund raising for the LA ZOO when I was at Barn 55. I hosted 2 breakfasts at the BARN…to help out! I know they were very appreciative of my contribution…as well as that of my owners and their dear friend, Tom. (Oh Tom, we so miss you!)
And YES, Trina….that is ME on the right side of the carousel photo! I love it! I look rather good from behind if I say so myself! (Blush, Blush)
In my own special way, I wanted to take a moment this morning and THANK ALL OF YOU FOR BEING SUCH WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL…FANS, FRIENDS, AND SPORTS! I know I could not mention all of your names and the special things that you bring to this site…but please know in my heart, I know you are there. I truly appreciate the comments, the love, the support, and the kindness you exhibit each day on Zenyatta.com! It takes people working together to make special things happen…and each day, I take great pride in the fact that each of you are part of MY BELOVED TEAM OF FANS AND FRIENDS!
I am so, so deeply touched!
With Love,
Hugs to All~
Z
P.S. Dottie just checked. At this very moment, I have 92,009 Facebook Friends and the number is growing! THANK YOU!
Juanita
We will be pulling for Sister Moon this weekend. Do you have a TV in your stall, Zenyatta:)
Gloria Jeanne
The picture should be showcased at Hollywood Park / Santa Anita Park and Del Mar then at Oaklawn… just my thoughts!!! Thanks for asking.
The Kennedys in San Diego
The photos are wonderful and do bring back personal memories of our times with Zenyatta. How we loved to visit Barn 55 and watch Zenyatta gallop on the training track or work on the main track; walk back to Barn 55 (great to walk behind her and watch that lovely Z engine swaying back and forth); being hotwalked by Carmen, grazing outside the barn — but one of the most special times was watching Mario give her a bath. She would raise one rear leg as if she may kick back (but never did). Mario said that she loved baths, did not like to be sweaty. But Mario added that washing her was like washing a SEMI-TRAILER.
Linda Shull
Great pictures and love all the info.
dakota
living in canada I never had the opportunity to ever see the queen up close and personal–I watch her video’s everyday and am amazed at the presence she exudes–after watching her videos I always smile and appreciate how well taken care of she was–she retired healthy and sound which now a days is a gamble with alot of horses. I have been a fan since her first race and regret never being able to see her close up –this site is amazing as it helps those of us who live so far away feel in touch. Dottie you really should look at writing children’s books–you have a knack of capturing people into a new world–thank you for this site, thanks to team z.
Margie in So. Calif.
Zenyatta, you have brought a special joy to my life. I’m blessed to have personally looked into those incredible eyes of yours and see your acknowledgement of me (as you do with all who come into your life). You took my breath away and I felt elevated to new heights of happiness. Your accomplishments speak for themselves. The winning (magnificently), the charity work, staying connected to your fans – it’s so much on a higher level than has ever been seen before. To Mr. and Mrs. Moss, John and Amazing Dottie , and each and every member of Team Z, I most sincerely thank you. Zenyatta is a gift in so many lives and you have unselfishly shared her with us.
To all the Z’ers on this site, it is a pleasure to see the camaraderie and support of one another, and to share in the love of all things Z. I think you’re all just the best!
Zenny, enjoy your party, big girl. Can’t wait to hear the stories and see the pictures, especially your life sized portrait. Everyone have a blast and safe travels to all you lucky BC attendees.
Bless you all…
Barbara Wood (Texas)
Dearest Z. and Dottie– the thanks all should go to YOU for making this diary happen. We are SO lucky to meet here and form friendships. Undying thanks are due to both of you!
@Sarah Powell–there you are! When any piece of our puzzle is “missing”, we notice. So glad to have you back.
@All who expressed concern/prayed for DMCQ: Just got an e-mail from Barbara Grimaldi stating that Doris is feeling better and is out of the hospital. No word on treatment yet, if any. I will report as I learn. I know she really appreciates the prayers.
@Kimberly Potter–Yes!! Great baby news! Thank you so much. When you can, give the little one a kiss from us.
@Fran Doos–God bless you for opening your hearts to Jack. I know you will be rewarded by his love.
@JAG–thank you so much for the links about the carousel and the John Lennon letter saving the foals. How terrific!
Speaking of rescues, I made a small donation for Scrumpy. I wish TROTT had a place on their site showing hw much has been donated.
@Ensign–welcome back. Thanks for the update, albeit sad, about Zazu. I’m thankful her connections are doing right by her.
@Dawn Conrad–we’re fine here, thanks. I echo everything you said; you just say it better–lol!
What a great day of diary entry/posts this has been. Am adding my state to my sign-in per Jag’s request.
Karen Mitchell/California
Dear Zenyatta, Dottie, Team Z, and all your 90,000+ fans. I haven’t commented for a long time but I read your diary posts every day and today’s was unusually special. It is heart-warming to know that you all read all the beautiful comments and know how much we all love and cherish you. You continue to help me recover from the loss of my husband and to accept the continued decline of my very elderly parents and for this I will be eternally grateful. Though I can’t attend your party, I am so happy for those who can as it seems like it will be exceptionally wonderful in every way. I love you with all my heart.
P.S. Though I hope that one day it will be right and safe for your devoted fan family to meet you in person and even hug and kiss you, as I was so fortunate to be able to do once and would love to do again, it is difficult to imagine how and where up to 90,000 people could be accommodated. Nevertheless, I am confident that it will happen in some way some day. In the meantime, stay safe and healthy and happy as you await the birth of your awesome baby.
sharon in seattle
I have always felt “appreciated” as a Zenyatta fan, so this day is frosting on the cake!! I would volunteer my house for the life-size Z portrait, but the Zenyatta wall is completely full of my favorite Z pictures and my poster from BC 2009!! So I vote for Santa Anita as the permanent home with the possibility of “touring” to the Triple Crown sites, Keeneland and Saratoga.
We LOVE you Zenyatta/Dottie!!!
LauraJ
@Judy, where do you live? Are you anywhere near a track? Attending a racetrack is usually pretty cheap except on special days. Admission is free at many tracks, and there is often free parking as well. When admission is not free, it’s usually just a few bucks–cheaper than a movie and way cheaper than most sporting events. Food is about what you’d expect to pay at the movies or at any other sporting venue. Even if there is not a track nearby, check to see if your local state or county fair has it.
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As for Zenyatta’s portrait, Santa Anita would be a great location if they have a suitably climate-controlled place to put it. If they don’t, then I suggest either the Museum of the Horse at the Kentucky Horse Park or the National Museum of Racing at Saratoga. Either venue will have conservators who are able to take care of fine art.
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@Ensign, hi! We’ve missed you.
Kendra
@Dakota ~ I second your thought that Dottie write childrens books and what better way to start than to write one about Dumpling Zenyatta. Great idea!
Dottie, you are such a talented woman. Thank you for sharing your gift with us.
The Kennedys in San Diego
PAINTING & BRONZE SCULPTURE
We suggest the painting be displayed permanently at the Kentucky Horse Park in honor of the Great Champion, Zenyatta, to be viewed by generations. However, before it reaches its permanent exhibition site, we would like to see it travel to art museums in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Washington and, of course, San Diego. After all, Zenyatta is a work of art.
**************** *****************
In addition, as we have suggested in the past, Nina Kaiser should produce two life size bronzes — one to stand at the KY Horse Park near those of Man O’War and Secretariat. The second bronze should be placed, at Santa Anita, site of not only her greatest race but the greatest race we will ever see. We are sure John Henry would love to have her there. Well, maybe not, JH never liked to share attention.
Margie in So. Calif.
@Sharon in Seattle – your comment “always felt appreciated as a Zenyatta fan” is perfect and so true. Today’s appreciation diary is extra special and filled with the kindness typical of Zenyatta and her family. You just feel good here in Z-Land. :-)
Patricia Emery
Simply “Thank You.” Life would NOT “Z” the same without you! BIGGEST HUGS & Kisses
Diane
How I wish I could be at your party. Last year’s trip to see you in your final race was the trip (from Wyoming) of a lifetime for me and my son; one we will never, ever forget!!!
We miss seeing you run. Thanks, Dottie, for keeping Zenyatta a part of our daily lives.
Sue Fredrick
Thank you Zen/Dottie for the wonderful tribute to your fans, what a very special thing to do. Without your Dottie to share your life with us we would have lost all contact with you and what a let-down that would have been after following all your races, some in person, and traveling to see you retire, I would have felt very empty to see you drive off to Lanes End.
I watched the Charismatic special with such a range of emotions. To see this magnificent horse and loveable jockey rise to such heights only to be dashed to the ground was quite sad. I’m sure he’s in heaven riding Secretariat, or Ruffian right now. I’m sorry that beautiful Charismatic went to Japan, it’s sad to see our wonderful stallions go overseas.
Sorry to hear about Zazu getting injured, I love this gutsy filly and am sure she would have tore up the track at BC.
@Cathleen I agree with you the painting of Z should be a traveling one so that fans all over the country could see it. I can wait to see it at your party Z and meet face to face DOTTIE, JOHN, THE MOSSES and MIKIE, as well as fellow DUMPLINGS.
@JAG AND THE KENNEDYS thank you so much for all your links I’ve enjoyed them so much.
Love and Kisses on your nose Z
Sue from WISCONSIN!!
JAG / California :-)
The Kennedys in San Diego
Mike always said Zenny was “Heaven sent” ~ that Heaven sent gift was from John Henry (with the Lords help) LOL He “adopted” her as the sister he never had ;-) He is so proud of her! I’m sure JH would LOVE a Zenyatta statue (by Nina) to stand across the fountain from him at Santa Anita! He earned his angel wings ~ so he likes to “share the love” :-)))
Judy G
Gloria Jeanne
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Eblouissante/143117319085172?sk=wall&filter=2#!/photo.php?fbid=303743432972584&set=o.143117319085172&type=3&theater
Ebby is in Stall # 85 at Hollywood Park – I always thought it would stay empty like John had said – Well, I guess it’s cool that Zenny’s little sister is there in her place.
The Kennedys in San Diego
Awesome Gem out of Breeders’ Cup. Must admit I liked this horse when one of the West Point Thoroughbreds’ principals told us how Awesome Gem was not an easy horse to ride, liked to unseat his riders. One day last year while watching him work, they were reassuring each other that he was finally settling. As they walked through the tunnel to talk to his exercise rider, they spotted Awesome coming back RIDERLESS.
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/65630/no-breeders-cup-for-awesome-gem
Margaret
Z even sick I check here every day. Not to worry I saw the human doctor this morning. I knew my ears were bad–they’ve been hurting for a couple of days now. And the icky glop is worse. But thankfully the doc and I caught this thing before it turned into bronchitis. My cold worked so hard and oops–ANTIBIOTICS are gonna knock ot out! So here’s the fun part–I’m on Azrithomycin–in short its called a Z PAK! Now I ask how CUTE is that? The very drug to make me better is called by your nickname!
Thanks Z.
And yes, I did see the Charismatic show. I was at the 91 Derby. I was less than 15 ft from Chris when I YELLED Your on the Winner! From his expression I know he heard me. By 1999, I don’t know what happened. Such demons.
I can tell you this. As a fan I saw Chris and Charismatic both struggling to become more than “has beens.” I never once questioned whether what happened to Charismatic was somehow Chris’s fault. I saw Charismatic slightly bobble and then Chris went face first into the dirt. He then grabbed the bad leg and held it up til help arrived. HE SAVED THE HORSES’S LIFE!
I don’t know about the rest of you but I REFUSE to speak ill of the dead. Chris loved that horse. I don’t think there’s a one of us who could’ve loved him more. RIP Chris. I truly hope that wherever you are now you have the peace that you so desparately sought in this life.
The Kennedys in San Diego
@JAG — Just joking. Of course, JH would love the gentle, kind Zenyatta.
Karen Gogue
@JAG
I don’t know about anyone else, but (blush, blush) I am “stoked” to see myself (Redhead next to lady in purple) and my sister (with cane) in photo of the bath! Yeah, Zenny, that is MY BIG REAR END you see there – can’t miss it! LOL! Don’t think the backside of myself looks ‘all that’ from behind! At least not like seeing your BIG BEAUTIFUL BEHIND roaring and ripping on the track was! But, that is OK, it was a dream day to remember – especially getting my sister there to struggle through the dirt of the backside. She was so “stoked” afterward, never ever dreaming to visit the backside of any race track barn area – let alone to see the Queen of our hearts. Thank you John for sharing your girl with her many fans and fanatics who are truly, from the heart and soul, enthusiastically devoted to THE QUEEN, and are just enthralled and spellbound with the magic and wonder of this special, so very special horse of our heart – and she is still the dream of Zennyland within our hearts. I love you BIG Beautiful girl more and more!
Brenda S..
Zenny, You look great from any angle and no blushes needed. You come from a very handsome family, both two legged and four
Susan in TN
Zenny- what a sweet thing to do- Fan Appreciation Day! As Yvonne says, you ARE an angel in disguise, except the disguise isn’t very good anymore- we can SEE you’re an angel <3 YOU have brought us together here and beyond. You are such a good friend to YOUR friends and are so generous to so many in need out in the world that it is very inspiring! I have made some wonderful friends here and learned of some wonderful causes. I don't think it is overstating things to say that YOU and your diary have changed my life. Thank you, Z. Love you <3
Jeanie
Dear Great One,
I have been thinking about this magnificant life-size photo of you and I have some thoughts on where I would like to see it hang:
1. It should hang at Hollywood Park first; this is where it all began and where you won many of your races.
2.Then it should travel the nation, residing at each of the race courses where you won for public viewing at opportune times.
3. Then it should go to Churchill Downs for a showing because, even in defeat, that was one of your most magnificant performances.
4. Finally, tied to your inevitable and certainly soon-to-be voted induction, it should permanently reside in the Thoroughbred Museum and Racing Hall of Fame in Saratoga, NY.
My humble opinion, as always,
Your humble J
Susan in TN
@All who commented or just thought about Chester and Chopper and the Sweeties at River Edge: THANK YOU! They have filled my life and I didn’t even know it needed filling! The boys wore their turnout sheets last night for the first time and seemed very comfortable this morning. They looked so handsome! I got a few pictures and posted them on FB (Chester and Friends).
Donna from Baltimore
Team Z, Queen Z and especially Dottie: You have made a huge impact on your fans and the sport. If you or Mikey ask us to help a cause – we help. This site and its fans are known for promoting civility. And your fans have become friends with each other. I met Ann Maree Matthews (Memphis, TN), Sidna Baker Madden (Oklahoma City,OK – with whom I shared a great evening in DC),Judy Maass Gadwood (L.A.,CA), Sandy Twigg (with whom I share a birthday) Mary Meek (Louisville, KY – with whom I share stories of our diabetic cats), and Claudia Montalvan (Buenos Aires, Argentina – we are tutoring each other in our respective languages). We all met while campaigning our fingers off to convince Eclipse voters that you deserved HOTY, 2010. We got used to seeing each others names on the same blogs and sites and became friends.
I have also “met” Andrea Weicht in Germany, Mona Lampropoulos(Salt Lake City, UT), Kimberly Mendoza (Cliffside Park, NJ), Liza G. Fly (singer extraordinaire). We have shared our victories, our tragedies and links to other TBs – like Uncle Mo, Blue Blue Sea, and Street Cry. And of course, we share our love of Zenyatta and all the great memories, current events and hopes for her future. You guys have done a great thing, and it is reflected in the caliber of your fans!
Sharon call
@Ensign. Nice to know that your “lurking” out there.
@Kennedys in San Diego. I agree with you 150% about the portrait and the bronze statues. Great ideas!
Susan in TN
@Judy B: Thank you for posting the address for Doris.
@Trina: I will be at Z’s party FOR SURE! I did find someone who wanted the other ticket.
@Charismatic: Watched the ESPN show- thought it was very well done. RIP, Chris<3
@Karen Gogue: LOL!
@Kimberly Potter: Thinking of you all <3
JAG / California :-)
@ Karen Gogue!
GF you are too funny!!
Judy G