Good Morning,
This is going to be one FUN yet BUSY WEEK! This morning entries are being taken for both days of OUR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS. A very specific procedure must be followed. Every trainer is to formally enter each horse for the specific race he / she is participating in by 10 a.m. Eastern Time. The final entry fees must be paid and the jockey named.
MY JOHN went to the Racing Office right after his horses trained this morning and did his entries. YEAH, JOHN!
When entries close at 10 a.m. Eastern, the Racing Office officials then prepare the paperwork for each race in relation to the post-position draw. This is going to be televised on HRTV at 1 p.m. Eastern Time. Once the post positions are finalized, the Racing Form, the professional handicappers, and all publicity sources will be able to compile the information for the public. Official programs will be printed….and WE ARE OFF TO THE RACES!
One of the many wonderful things that happens in our industry is the RACING WORLD is like one big family. Often when you travel for certain events, you see many familiar faces.
That is exactly what happened this morning. MY JOHN walked into the Breeders’ Cup offices to place his entries and there working the phones was TOM ROBBINS. I know Tom quite well. He is the The Executive Vice President: Racing and Industry Relations/Racing Secretary for Del Mar Race Track. He used to come by and see ME all of the time when I was at Del Mar to run in the Clement Hirsch each year. Officials from several tracks pitch in to help out. They ALL want everything to run smoothly and be as special as possible for the FANS and ALL participating in these events.
They do a wonderful job!
I must also say, I am getting very excited about MY PARTY. IT IS THIS FRIDAY! MY TEAM has ordered a ‘party present’ for all who are attending. I hear they are TOO CUTE! Then Leonard was telling Dottie that the artists who have worked on MY SPECIAL PAINTING and mini-collectibles of ME will be attending the party to meet with the guests as well.
THE ZENYATTA, a Z drink, will also be introduced. I have always been a Guinness person myself (except now I am being SO GOOD while in-foal)…but I have heard that humans like other types of ‘adult beverages’. This one has apparently been developed and named for ME! I’ve heard about the ingredients and have seen a photo of what it will look like in a glass…but it will be interesting to see how all of you like it! HOOVES CROSSED! I’m requesting an adaptation be made ‘for children’ as well.
The horses from Europe arrived at Churchill Downs over the weekend. They are presently in Quarantine for the required amount of time by legal standards and will be back to the track very soon. It is all so well-planned and organized by everyone who works with these horses.
GOLDIKOVA is on the grounds and I’ve heard she looks fabulous. What a lovely, lovely accomplished horse!
Enjoy your week and ALL of the great racing updates from TV, on-line, and in print! THIS IS SO MUCH FUN!
With Love,
Hugs to All~
Z
Kendra
Sounds like the party of the year, Zenyatta. You have thought of everything and I am certainly jealous of those that get to attend. A safe trip to all. Love Ya.
Sally B. (Wi)
What a wonderful world of racing Z. Your party is so close and I am so excited, I have to take slow deep breaths. Whew! How sweet it is, a Z drink!! Can’t wait for the mini collectibles too. I love to look at the beauty of all horses, but my eyes adore you, my heart loves you. You have the greatest family I’ve ever known.
love with 2 kisses on your soft nose, one for baby z
Sally B. (Wi)
@Judy Berube; I must have missed a day of posting; but I wish the best for Russ
@Shari Voigt, It is too bad you can not make the party. I know you have been on Z’s post since it’s inception as well as I. I’d have another Z drink for you, but I am driving.
signofthetimes
HDG with Larry Jones and Helmet Cam.
TOO CUTE !!!!
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/65883/grace-works-five-furlongs-jones-undeterred
Susan
Hi Zenny,
I hope you got the yearbook we sent you from the school that I teach at. My new second graders are learning all about you this year. We still have the big wall decorated with you and Mike winning the 2009 BCC. I wish I could be there this year. Love SORTH
Barbara Wood (Texas)
@judy berube–great to hear from you! Our love to you. You are like family.
@all: since many were away from the site over the weekend, could you please indulge my re-posting of the dire need for funds to save Burning Lady? Pure Thoughts and Elite Thoroughbreds are working together to save her, and they need $1300 by tomorrow. I made my donation yesterday. For every $25 donated, the person gets to win a chance for a picture of OUR Z autographed by her TEAM. Please help if you can round up a few spare dollars. Thank you in advance.
@signofthetimes–couldn’t get the HDG link to work, but will try again. Thanks!
Marilu V.
Hi Zeny!
Wish I could join you for the party on Friday. No doubt you will have a successful and wonderful party!
Hugs, Marilu
Daina Ryan
Hello Z — I know it will be a REALLY exciting weekend of races but the excitement YOU brought will certainly be missed. I remember watching your 2009 Breeders Cup Race at a very noisy bar and when you were running down the homestretch at warp speed the bar crowd was going crazy and you WON and then everyone sort of went back to their casual conversations (those that aren’t as horse crazy as I) and I remember just looking around the room and thinking – you guys just witnessed something historical and you don’t even know it…. and then the 2010 race – – I decided to watch it from home that year so I could take it all in…my heart was pounding when you entered the starting gate and I kept taking deep breaths to calm my nerves. I worried about your safety – – such a big girl and those fine legs and I wondered if were we asking too much of you? And of course I wanted you to win BIG. I had a group of people over and when you were coming down the homestretch again at warp speed – the yelling and screaming that took place in my den almost matched that of the bar the year before and then you missed it by a nose. There was dead silence afterwards -we felt so deflated, in shock…we couldn’t believe that you didn’t get there. If you were 3 or more lengths behind maybe we could have dealt with that but you were right there just a nose short of victory after your long hard fight to get there. That was pretty hard to swallow. Just a few more lengths and what could have been BUT as I reflected I was amazed at what you did in that race. The way you weaved in and out and around and kicked into that extra gear of yours passing the best horses in the world that year again like they were standing still – – and that wonderful horse Blame and how hard he had to work to hang on. What could have been WAS….the honor of watching one of the greatest racemares of all time. I think that year everyone knew they were watching something historical and the greatest race of your career. As saddened as we all were for your loss – the days that followed – your demeanor was as if you were saying to all of us – I’m OK – don’t worry. I did my best and that’s about all I cld do and I’m OK. You still danced and held your head high – – goodness what a lesson.
Theresa Buck
i can’t wait for the breeder’s cup day
Brigid Matthews
The Zenyatta drink …. slow to start but when it gets going, O M G you better watch out! lolol Thanks to Zenyatta’s family, as always, for sharing her so generously.
Sue Fredrick - Wisconsin
Wow Zenny it’s going to be one special partaay!! I sure wish all the Zensters could be there, we have become one big caring family who love you and all of your family immensely. I can’t wait to try a ZENYATTA and see what the collectibles look like, your beautiful painting, you on video, and your wonderful team.
@Ann Maree, Susie Cartright, Leiana, Trisha and any one I might have missed, my girlfriend and I will be standing out front by the Barbaro statue hoping to meet as many Dumplings as possible. Please come say ‘Hi’.
@Judy Berube my heart goes out to you, I know how you feel as my husband has emphysema and doesn’t get around much. I pray Russ gets some mobility back as their attitude is better if they can move around and do some things themselves. My thoughts are with you.
See you Friday Z kisses on your nose
Elaine
Happy Halloween, Queen Z! Are you dressing up as the Queen Mother?
Barbara Wood (Texas)
http://www.purethoughtshorserescue.com/index.php. Here’s the link I forgot to post!
Alex Bowdoin - MA
@ JAG Adores Zenyatta & John Henry / So. CA, I loved John Henry too…I did get to meet him at the Kentucky Horse Park going on 12-13 yrs ago now. He was such a Great Race Horse!! I am so pleased that you write about him so much!!
If anyone watched TVG’s The Works on Sunday, Royal Delta looked FABULOUS in her work!! I can’t wait to see Goldikova on TVG. They should be out of quarantine Wed?
DJ
Dearest Sweet “Z”, Your Z Drink is long overdue! Curious as to what the delicious concoction will be…yummy and potent I’m sure :) A winner like you!
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To Trina: What a delightful poem for Linda! A treat to read :) Thank you.
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To JB: Hugs and well wishes for you and Russ today!
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To Barbara W: You are welcome from yesterday! :)
Janie (in L.A.)
Have fun anticipating your party on Friday – how I wish I could be there! I hope we get the lowdown on the Zenyatta Drink in time to enjoy one in your honor this weekend – you are just TOO CUTE, Zenyatta!
Jeanie
@Barbara Wood — do you have an update on Burning Lady? Have enough funds been raised for her ransom? I get paid tomorrow!
@Z’isters of Omaha —
I made contact today with UN Omaha. I was asked to put it in writing, which I did. My contact there is going to check with the Engineering Dept. to see if they have the means to image the ground and also going to talk to some old timers to see if anyone can recollect where Omaha is buried. Apparently the story about being next to the home ec building and having cooking failures dumped on him is not true. There are a lot of concrete parking lots on what was the infield of Ak-sar-Ben. So we need to wait and see what comes back. j
Alex Bowdoin - MA
@judy berube from Rhode Island, I am sending a prayer along to you and your husband. Did you get any snow or just rain from the Big Nor’Easter?
tony and sue
Zenny, you are the hostess with the mostess! A drink named in your honor…such fun! We hope you’ll share the recipe with all of us so we can cheer with the rest of the dumplings as you party in Ky. Another very informative post…thank you, Dottie!
Andrea from Germany
How I wish I could participate in your party. Have fun and stay healthy. Love you Zenny.
Brenda S..Ontario, Canada
Zenny, how good to hear the YOUR JOHN got his horses signed up early and that he found a friend in the office. So much to do in addition to training. Now we just cross hooves for great post positions.
How exciting – a Zenyatta cocktail. Please ask Dottie to share the recipe so that we can all join in. I was planning to have Pina Coladas but I do like the sound of the Velvet Hammer and since I won’t be driving anywhere I could have more than one!! I changed Vic’s riding lesson from Friday to Thursday and I won’t be answering any telephones or door bells. I can’t wait Zenny. I hope that you are staying cool, calm and collected in all the excitement.
@ Trina Poet Laureate – Another masterpiece Trina, your talent is amazing.
Barbara Wood (Texas)
@Jeanie–I do not know. Most rescues are too busy to post a running total, but someone posted on our “army” site (I believe from FB, but not sure) that they have $330. If that’s so, they need more. Praying hard. Thank you so much. I depend on you to keep us updated on Marlene and her work.
Jeanie
@Barbara Wood
Thank you. Then I will donate tomorrow. Maybe you should push that out again for everybody. Don’t they need like $500 for the horse and $800 for something else? A total of $1,300? If they only have $330, they have a long way to go by tomorrow!
I have been checking Marlene’s website and nothing new yet. I am on her mailing list so I probably would get something anyway. Nothing new on that front…j
Barbara Wood (Texas)
@Jeanie–just got word that they have enough to ransom her, but not enough for the shipping yet. Thank you so much!
Jeanie
@Barbara Wood
@ Z’isters
We need to come together to raise the $800 to rescue Burning Lady from the hell of the slaughterhouse. She is a T-bred, our favorite breed. We need to rally round her. I checked her pedigree. On top she is out of the Fappiano line and on the bottom, her mother was out of Lost Soldier (sire of Lost in the Fog) and on up through Danzig and Secretariat. Barbara, what is that link again that we can use to donate?
LouAnn Cingel of Union, Missouri
Things are getting so interesting as well as heating up for the BC Races this Fri & Sat. And yur party I am sure will be one fabulous get together and I hope that all attending enjoy themselves, so sorry that I am unable to be there. I am so much looking forward to being able to watch the BC races on tv and wish the best for all that are partaking in it. Good Luck to everyone and have a super fantastic party too Zenyatta! Will be thinking of you and of course all of your fans.
Love you so much Zenyatta and am sending you buckets of love, blessings and hugs!
Dawn Conrad / Colorado
Dear Zenyatta. Happy Halloween, beautiful!!! Sorry I have missed some posts. I have a problem with my neck that is affecting my right arm and hand, numbness and tingling pain, so I am finding it hard to be on the computer much. Had an MRI on Friday, I’m sure it will get better soon. The excitment certainly is building. Each day brings your marvelous updates!! Thanks to you and Dottie for taking time out of your VERY busy schedule to keep us up to date, it means so much. It hurts a great deal that I will not be attending your party, Zenny. Try as I might, it just did not work out. My heart and spirit will be with you my love as well as wonderful Team Z and all of the fantastic Dumplings in attendance. What fun for all. The special giveaways, Zenyatta drink and other plans sound marvelous. You are making it the best day ever!!!!! I will be glued to the TV for the broadcast of the Breeder’s Cup. #19 will be right there beside me as well as my dog and cat, Bindi and Sassy. They love to sit in my big chair with me, but often jump down when I begin yelling, COME ON BABY, in the stretch drive. When you were running, I thought they could probably hear me at Churchill!! As if my voice could help carry you forward, somehow. I believe you did know your fans voices were raised in tribute and support of you, Zenny. You always gave it all you had and in those moments our love for you could not remain silent, but burst forth in a mighty cheer for all the world to hear!! You were then and ever will be our beloved Queen Z! So glad Goldikova and all the others competing arrived safe and sound, I pray that they remain so leading up to and during the Breeder’s Cup. I am wishing your John every success!!!!!! Love you Zenny. Sweet dreams. Hugs and kisses. XXXOOO
@Judy Berube – So sorry to hear about your husband, Russ. I am glad that he is doing better and it sounds like you will be getting some help. I know how hard things can be, both physically and mentally for the care giver as well as person suffering the illness. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
@Linda in NJ – HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! Sorry I missed that you were under the weather, I will be praying for a speedy recovery!
@Trina – Great poem, I think you out do yourself each time!
@DJ – Always wonderful to see your prayers and posts.
@Karen Gogue and Susan in TN – Thank you both for your e-mail messages, I did get to read them, but afraid I have not answered yet. Do forgive me.
@Shari – As always, loved talking to you this weekend!
@All- Thanks for everyone for all of the great links and information. It is all so wonderful! To those that are missing or ill, your remain in my thoughts and prayers. Love to all!!!
Dallas from Texas
Hey baby girl, I hope that you had a wonderful weekend. I can’t wait until this Friday. I’m looking forward to the Zenyatta drink. Since it’s named after you sweetie it’s got to be fantastic! Talk to you later, love you baby girl
JAG Adores Zenyatta & John Henry / So. CA
Goldikova Draws Post 1 in Quest for 4th Mile
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/65903/goldikova-draws-post-1-in-quest-for-4th-mile#ixzz1cOb4tu1f
JAG Adores Zenyatta & John Henry / So. CA
Uncle Mo Classic Choice Over Havre de Grace (Personally, I wouldn’t rule Girl Power out!)
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/65899/uncle-mo-classic-choice-over-havre-de-grace#ixzz1cObU8Yg3
GO THIRSTY (Bernie’s Boy!)
Pletcher said Repole’s Stay Thirsty (Bernardini), the Travers Stakes (gr. I) winner who drew post 9 and is listed at 12-1 on the morning line, is “doing great. He was sharp this morning, and he is proven at a mile and quarter. I think he’s a horse that will have a lot to say at the end of it.” :-)