Zenyatta

Queen of Racing

Z's Diary

Diary Post #457

Here WE are! All of today’s photos…Courtesy of Mathea Kelley and Team Zenyatta

Dear Beloved Friends,

Wouldn’t you know those EARS anywhere? I love looking at THEM and every single part of MY adorable colt! This entire experience is very precious to ME and to my entire TEAM!

On this day, I wanted to share a few more of my favorite photos with YOU. After all, I think this fortunate foal is blessed to have the most GODPARENTS of anyone in history. I truly can’t THANK YOU enough for the way you have embraced both of US….ME for so many years….and now my ‘Dumpling’.

Many of you have asked about HIS NAME. At this time, my colt does not have an official name. Per the standard practice in our industry, he is referred to as “12 Zenyatta”. His halter tag reads this way indicating year born…and Mom’s name. I know Ann and Jerry so well and can only imagine how many countless hours they will spend discussing this to make sure he has the perfect name. I trust their judgment completely!

The most fun he and I’ve shared so far is when he ‘takes off’ to run in the paddock. Just like in MY RACING CAREER, I give him a head start (on purpose)…and then I catch him in a FLASH! This is one FUN GAME we play…and I’m loving every single stride.


I must say, having been a MOM now for a few days, I’m already applying some of the basics of MOM 101. (A HIGH HOOF to my Lane’s End pals for tutoring ME with some special GREAT MOM TIPS.) I’m really doing very well at ‘my new career’ and am rather proud of myself. (Blush, Blush)

My baby is by my side every moment….and I am loving it! We walk together, eat together, cuddle together, and learn together. I’m getting a daily education on all of the right things to do for him…and I’m hoping in return he is learning to be ONE FINE COLT from ME!


In life, things go FULL CIRCLE. I have gone from being a foal…to now having one of my very own to care for each day. In between these 2 stages of life, I have been incredibly blessed to achieve countless amazing accomplishments, a great deal of success in my profession, and to meet and share MY LIFE with some of the finest people one could ever hope to call her FRIENDS!

I do feel at this time, it is extremely important for ME to take some time off from my daily DIARY writing and allow myself the opportunity to BOND EVEN MORE to MY NEW FOAL and FOCUS on being his MOM. (I think in human terms, this is called a child-rearing leave!)

From the bottom of MY HEART, I want to THANK YOU for the joy, support, and love you have brought to ME over these past years. As I’m putting my “writing hooves on the shelf for a bit,” I also want to thank the countless people who have submitted photos (Sarah, you have been so kind) and written so many treasured responses in relation to the Diary entries.

Dottie and I wrote the very first Diary entry on November 1, 2010. We have cherished every single moment of sharing all of these experiences and memories with you….OUR DEAR and TREASURED FRIENDS!

Again, THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING! I will think of you often during my time off…and I hope you will do the same of ME….especially when you see the letter “Z” or hear any of my favorite sayings as ….”Too cute…Blush, Blush…It’s ME…Wink, Wink, BARN 55, High Hoof and I’m a MOM.”

WHAT A RIDE WE’VE ALL SHARED!

Until next time…

With Love,
Hugs to All~ (I so mean this from the bottom of MY HEART!)
Z

I’d respectfully like to add a SPECIAL NOTE OF THANKS and a HUGE GROUP HUG to all of the people who have done so much to orchestrate and guide my racing career…and now my life as a broodmare. It is such a large and loving group which would include but not be limited to: all of my dear pals at BARN 55, LANE’S END, MY ANN and JERRY, MY JOHN, MY MIKIE, MARIO, FRANK, CHEVA, MICHELLE, DAWN, STEVE, and so many others!

Then, of course, I’d like to send a very special HIGH HOOF and one very BIG HUG to my writing partner, DOTTIE!

Reader Interactions

1,307 Comments

  1. My Beautiful Zenyatta and 12 Z~ I knew that this time would come where we would no longer be spoiled in getting daily diary’s from you…. It will be hard to adjust to not being in your life everyday. But I understand that you need (and deserve) to have time to just be a MOM! Thank you Dottie (and ALL of Team Z) for taking us on this journey. For that, I am eternally grateful. Now I am going to cry….I miss you all ready!

    You are my once in a lifetime horse Zenyatta…and I love you with all my heart!

    Your #1 fan in Montana

  2. Not only his Mother’s ears, but her legs as well!…may they carry him as far as YOURS have carried you…thank you so much for letting us be so much a part of YOUR life….you and your ‘writing partner’ Dottie have truly enriched so many of our lives and it is sad to see you go (at least for now). God Bless.

  3. You can’t stop!!! We love hearing from you daily and will really miss the updates and pictures that come with all of that. How long will you be gone and where can we see and hear about Zenyatta and foal????

  4. Thank you for all the time and effort of keeping us up to date on your happenings. Enjoy your little prince.

  5. Many thanks for sharing as much as you have. You have all been such a blessing. I look forward to pictures in the future and, if it is meant to be, following Zennie’s little son as he grows and hopefully does well on the track. Such a little one has big hooves to follow! He should be allowed to grow up in peace and enjoy his life. Until next time…..

  6. Please, don’t take too long. Although you are in a different place and time, all your adoring fans still want to be part of your life, no matter what is happening. Yes you need time to bond with precious and we understand, however you have been part of our lives for so many years it will be very difficult to not have the daily post. I can see withdrawals coming.
    To you and all concerned THANK YOU, THANK YOU AND THANK YOU SO MUCH. YOU WILL FOREVER BE IN OUR HEARTS. PLEASE DON’T STAY AWAY FOR TOO LONG!!!
    I am attaching the url for the HTV spot with Ann and Jerry for those who may not have see .
    Love, hugs and kisses to all and a special big smooch for baby boy.
    Untill …………
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DoO4JfhqM44&feature=related

  7. Oh Zenny…you and Dottie have taken us on such a ride! We know you need a break but don’t make it too long, OK? We sure do miss you already and it’s not even tomorrow yet.

    We suspect we will get regular updates through other news sources…after all, you are one popular gal and your colt will be very newsworthy in whatever he achieves.

    God Bless, you, Zenny…your team and all who read here.

  8. Zenyatta you and your foal are amazing! I am so proud of you and have enjoyed seeing you become a loving mother, which I never doubted because of all the LOVE that has always surrounded you. I am a bit unsettled about your “leave of absence”. Although I understand taking time off, the timing could not be worse. Will we hear about Tasty and her foal, will we get to see pics of the baby (he will be growing and changing daily), me and your fans like to be able to know how you are doing, the name of your colt, your next choice in sires, and racing news and information. That being said, I do appreciate all that you and Dottie have done for us, which really started with YOUR JOHN sharing you with us all. I just hope that we will still receive news in regards to you and your baby colt. He is, simply MARVELOUS. Your best achievement yet. So thanks, I hope to hear from soon.

  9. Big Mama and Dottie, Thank you for letting us peek into a window of your amazing world. I am so grateful for all the photos and diary posts. You’ve invested yet also given up valuable time that could have been given to many important obligations. We, who love you so much, are like addicts. You could never post too many photos, videos or messages. We devour them all and look around for more! Never doubt how grateful we are for the sacrifice you’ve made. But now, you deserve to do all the important things YOU want to do. So many things took back seat while you were writing your love letters to us. It is remarkable what you’ve done. You’ve drawn more than 100,000 people to your diary and many other racing related sites, including charities. You’ve helped us all become better educated about horses and the world of horse racing. I knew very little before I met you, Zenyatta, but you have made me a fan of Barn 55, the Mosses, the Shirreffs, Lane’s End, Mike Smith, Liza G. Fly, etc., etc., If and when you stop by to say hello in your diary, please know I’ll probably read each several times and gaze at your photos with great admiration for all you are and all you’ve come to represent about the best that can be found in the world of horses. God bless you all.

  10. As much as I too will miss the daily diary, I certainly want Zenny to have the time with her boy and Dottie to regroup and devote her time to all the gazillion other things I’m sure she’s tasked to do. My take on the break is just that, it’s a break; not gone forever.
    Maybe the Zenyatta website can be updated to include ongoing baby pictures in the Photos section or a new section added.
    Have a good week everyone.
    Tasty, I’m still hoping the very best for you…..

  11. @Oh Zenyatta: It will nearly kill me not to have your Diary to look forward to each day! But I understand needing time off. I note with hopefulness that you didn’t say “forever” but just “for awhile”. Thank you for that little bit to hang on to.

    God how we love you so, and have come to love each other here as well. I hope there will be a way for all of us Z Dumplings and Z-sters to continue to communicate with each other and to be involved in so many good causes that have sprung from this gathering place. I also hope there will continue to be photos posted – somewhere – that we all can enjoy.

    Bless all of you for this incredible ride for so long. I am sad to say farewell, but my heart is hopeful that from little acorns, big oaks will grow, and we will be able to join a new diary in the future.

    Sincerest love and hugs from Arizona

    diastu in tempe

    • Diana – I think you have my email address, and if you are so inclined, drop me a note once in a while. If you don’t still have it, it is cujofrib@juno.com. If anyone else would like to keep in touch, feel free to send me an email at that address. I am so happy for Zenyatta to have her privacy, but will miss her, this site and the conversations I have had with many people here. Please keep in touch.

    • Diana, You have said exactly what is in my mind. I’m sure that we all will find news and photos of Zenny and her foal, but it won’t be same as coming here to her diary every day.

      Lane’s End will post the news when Tasty drops her foal and I’m sure we’ll learn when Zenny goes on her next date but how are we going to know what is going on in the lives of our fellow Dumplings?

      THANK YOU DOTTIE, you probably never dreamed what you would end up creating when you began to speak for Zenny, you will be missed more than you know.

      • Dear Brenda:

        Signofthetimes suggested we can keep in touch through The Vault, Abigail’s web site. Was wonderful reading your posts and knowing you and Vic. Hugs, JB

      • Brenda & ALL,
        I too have a website (and an annual gathering of horse racing friends at the Breeder’s Cup) and would be happy and delighted to share my site (which is also a forum) with all of you. I feel I have grown to know many of you and would love to meet many more and if it will help to somehow keep all of us together I am happy to offer a space to do so on my website…I will even creat a Zenyatta forum where we can all keep in touch.
        If ANYONE is interesteing please do not hesitate to let me know.

        I can be reached at whirlaway68@gmail.com OR directly at the website (my screen name is Afleet Treet) at http://www.HorseRacingmania.com/forums.

        I hope to see afew or any or ALL of you there!

        • How kind and thoughtful of you to think of us Shannon. Of course I will stop by your website.

        • Wow Shannon, thanks so much. Just checked it
          Out. Chocked with lots of info and updates.

        • After Whirlaway won the triple crown in 1941, he was scheduled to run at SA the following year. Then, the war happened and SA did not have racing for awhile. The rest is history.

  12. I have loved every diary post and will miss them but I understand the busy schedule. I do hope you give periodic updates because after meeting Zenyatta I am spoiled for other horses!

  13. Oh, Zenny…myself and your 100,000 plus facebook friends will be waiting eagerly for your next diary entry even though it may be weeks away.

    You have given us so many great lessons … we just love you so.

    Rest, relax and give your little one a huge kiss from me. Dottie, you are an angel…enjoy your respite, too.

  14. Thanks to Z and Dottie for allowing us to share all of these awesome moments with you! Much Love and Thanks for the Memories!!

  15. I will so miss this one place on the vast internet where people came together and shared moments of their lives and somehow remained positive and gave us all a feeling of being uplifted. Horses do that for each of us. I had them for many years and remember each with love. I’m 72 now and Zenyatta has been a constant blessing in my life, as Secretariat was long ago. I did get to touch him, love him and pet him one day and it was the highlight of my life. Thanks, Dottie, for allowing many people to become ‘horse people’ by the stroke of your pen and the love of a mare. I hope they find a way to pass it on……My Love…..goodbye….

  16. All good things must unfortunately come to an end. I am very sorry that this diary may be one of them. The internet access to Zenyatta was a wonderful way to keep her fans connected with her and to keep her close to the public. Now she may fade away from notice, except to a select few, like other retired horses have done in the past. It will be a very great loss. However, it may be time for Team Z to move on to other things and they deserve our respect if that is their choice. Thank you Zenyatta and Team Z, especially Dottie, for bringing such joy to so many.

    • They need to move on to raise and train Zenny’s
      At least 10 children. Lanes End really stuck their neck
      Out with allowing us to be a part of the foaling. If
      Had been an eventful delivery, it could have been
      A real mess. Good luck Max have enjoyed your posts.
      We cal all now meet on The Vault !!!!

      • Sign. I agree with you. We were so very lucky to have had the unique internet access that we did have for so long. Even 10 years ago, this might not have been possible to follow a horse so closely. I am sorry that this may be the end. I hope that it is not over because Z is an inspiration and a role model who does not come along every day. She is an amazing wonder horse. It is extremely tough to let go, but it appears that Z and Dottie need a break. Best to you always.

        • Dear Max and Signofthetimes:

          It has been wonderful reading your posts and getting to know you.That’s a good idea, maybe we can continue to keep in touch on the vault. Hugs, JB

        • Judy. I like to think that this is a very bad dream, and tomorrow Z will be back as usual. The hard reality of separation from daily news of the Queen is now setting in. I understand that we must accept Z’s wishes, but it is still sad. It was however glorious and great fun while it lasted. We will also never forget how Z could run like the wind. How thrilling it was, especially that last triumphant race. Truly magnificent in every way like Z herself.

        • Really will miss your great links Max, you find
          The best. Look forward to seeing you on the
          Vault. You have added so much to this site.
          We just participated in Zenny’s transition from
          Champion race horse to Broodmare. Look forward
          To the life size statue of Zenny at SA breeders cup.

  17. You mean I have to get a life now???
    Thanks for all the inspiration, Z, and please keep us updated as to photos, names, gossip (your next boyfriend), etc. We’ve all got too much time invested in your diary to let it go completely at this point!

  18. Zenny, Dottie, the Mosses, Barn 55, 12 Zenyatta, Lanes End and all connections: Thank you all so much for taking the time over the past several months keeping all of Zenyatta’s fans updated with great stories and photos leading up to the greatest treat of all, the birth of our long awaited “little boy”…it has been an awesome ride and something to look forward to everyday. I fully understand the time it took to bring this to us and thank you from the bottom of my heart for keeping us all informed. Zenny – have a fantastic time shaking your tail and running through the pastures chasing and playing with your adorable son. Hopefully we will get some updated pictures as he grows since he has become as important to us as you are. Love you all!!! Only one request…please keep us posted on Tasty and hopefully sneak a picture of her and her foal once he/she arrives! She and her foal are so lucky to be your “pasture” buddy :-)

  19. Most maternity leaves are of 3 mos. duration. Is there a chance that you’ll be back then with more news and beautiful pictures?

    Thank you so much for brightening our days, Zenyatta, Dottie, Ann & Jerry, and all who comprise Team Zenyatta.

    • For a broodmare there is no break; her foal will be weaned
      At 6 months and she will be 3-4 months in goal
      By another stallion, she will deliver her second and
      Continue the cycle until, if her body decides to
      Take a break. Unfortunately a 24/7 job 12 months a year.

  20. It has bern such a joy following you. Congrats to the birth
    of your son.I will miss following you but understand that motherhood
    calls.

  21. Dearest Zenyatta and Dottie,

    Thank you so much for sharing this past year with us. You have taught us so much about your life as a Thoroughbred both on and off the track.You have brought so many more devoted fans to the track and you have been a great champion and spokesperson for the racing industry. Thank you for your devotion to your fans, you both deserve many HUGS and HIGH HOOVES .I will miss checking up on you each day, and getting teary eyed just reading your heartfelt posts. I wish you so much happiness as you persue even greater joys To TEAM ZENYATTA, may God bless you all. Best wishes and many thanks , and I look forward to hearing greats thing about our little boy. Thank you so much to Jerry and Ann Moss, I loved the video from Lanes End. You are both very dear people and will always hold a special place in my heart, what a joy just watching you and hearing you talk about your dear girl.Thank you for sharing her!!!.

  22. By all means, take a break! I only request the occasional picture / update be it here or Facebook or well, wherever ;) you’ve done a wonderful job on continuing the diary and we look forward catching up as you have the time. Z… what a beauty and 12 Zenyatta…. what a beauty as well.. Take time to Enjoy! Looking forward to seeing the ears as they grow. Thanks for sharing, may the Zs be blessed..and I won’t forget to thank Bernardini.. ;) Take care.

  23. Ouch. I’ll miss coming here and getting my Z fix everyday. But I do understand. Dottie has put in an enormous amount of time for all of us. It has to be exhausting.

    For now, there won’t really be any new news. The baby will grow, make friends, learn what the green stuff is and how yummy it is. Just like with any baby. You won’t see huge growth day to day–but one day you’ll look and realize just how much he’s changed.

    I say give Dottie some time off. She has been here tirelessly for us for a year and a half. They’ve given so much to us. And they have allowed us to see this very precious baby. And mom Z needs so time to just be a mom.

    Also another thing to consider is how very busy LE’s end is this time of year. Not only is it breeding season its also foaling season. Many people work VERY LONG hours ensuring the safety of all the mares delivering their foals. They owe it to all the other owners to be at their best.

    I will miss the daily updates–don’t get me wrong. I’ll miss the photos. But more than anything I want safety for all–people and horses. And I look forward to hearing from Dottie and Z when they feel they have something to report to us, that we need to know or that they’d like to share.

    In the meantime Team Z take care and know how much I appreciate all that you do for us. LE’s none of this could have happened if you hadn’t been as committed to Z and her parents as you are. For this, I am grateful to you. I look forward to hearing from you when you return.

  24. Oh Z, how I will miss your daily thoughts and pictures! I understand you and Dottie need a little break but please keep us updated on Prince Z and Tasty, etc. You have single-handedly recruited more racing fans than any other “person” on earth! Keep up your great work and enjoy your baby! He will grow up before you know it!!!! Love you, my Queen!
    Your friend,
    Linda

  25. I am going to miss the daily updates but totally understand…but please do not stay away too long, your fans love you and adore you and your prince and it will be so hard not to have you in our lives everyday…enjoy your little one we will miss miss you so much!!! Please update us on Tasty!

  26. Z and Dottie, what an amazing ride this has been – Although I thought I was pretty knowledgeable, I have learned so much from this diary about the finer points of racing and training, can’t thank you enough. Hoping that we will hear important updates (even a few words!) when possible, but I fully understand the need to step back for a time. Thanks and blessings to all of your racing family and for Ann and Jerry to allow us so much access to your life. May your baby (he looks so much like you!) grow and flourish under your loving eye –

  27. You might be out of our sights but never out of our thoughts. Both you and Dottie and special ladies and we give big thanks for letting us share your journey to Mommyhood.

  28. We can keep our own conversation going in this diary…let’s keep each other posted on news and links so our family can stay together. I have grown to appreciate all of you so much!

    • still in shock. I PRAY YOU’RE NOT TAKING THE WEB SITE DOWN — AT LEAST NOT THAT!!
      This week has seen the highest of highs and now the silence brings the lowest of lows — but we understand the need for rest and quiet. Praying it’s only for a while. Dottie and John, you are the stewards of this legend. Jerry and Ann, you made it possible. Mike, you rode the winds greatest races. David, you found the jewel in the crown. and Team Z, you are Olympic in scope and accomplishment.

      HOW DO WE STAY IN TOUCH NOW?

        • Also Facebook. I’m on FB as Keta Hagen.
          Would welcome Friends.
          I thanked the Z Team, but want to thank each of you who have taught us, shared with us, laughed with us, and welcomed all.
          Sign always the first to welcome the First;
          Dawn Conrad with stories; Margaret with lessons;
          Auntie Judy with so much love & laughter;
          Terry C. with redneck jokes (I was in awe of how you were able to do those post after post)
          Sharon whose husband will remain in my prayers-safe return’
          Sandy and all my fellow Buckeyes;
          Mrs. V and her class; Judy B,
          There are so many–if I didn’t mention you by name, know you were important and treasured. The senior brain lapsed, not the heart.
          And, Kari–Ashton, your mother is remembered by so many of us who never met her in person. But, we know her story. You are in my heart.
          So, until we meet again–at Santa Anita; or Hollywood Park, or in an airport-you know you are a member by the Team Z hat or shirt or you are carrying your Plushie. Can’t leave home without it!
          Thank you–I will miss the daily updates.

        • Dear Keta,
          So very much loved your tweet updates, they always
          Were on the site before the articles; not much
          Of a far booker, but will definately look you up.
          Don’t forget about THE VAULT.

  29. Thank You, Mrs. Dottie, for being Zenyatta’s “voice!”

    I have thoroughly enjoyed reading Z’s diary posts, her Twitter account, and Facebook page. Your way with words is very uplifting and a joy to read, and I’ve learned a lot about horses from Z’s diary.

    Thank you so much for taking the time to continue to share Zenyatta’s life with us during her retirement and as a first-time mom. It has been a treat!!

    I hope we may see photographs of Momma Z and Baby Z in the future. The colt definitely has a pair of ears and a set of long legs to grow into. lol! And looking forward to hearing of his new name hopefully soon.

    I just listened to the Bloodhorse live podcast with the staff from Lane’s End farm, and really enjoyed it.

    I hope this goodbye is not forever. Bless you, Mrs. Dottie, and Ann and Jerry, Team Zenyatta, and Lane’s End!!!

  30. Oh my ………. like everyone else I sure am going to miss my daily fix. I am hoping that maybe you could give us a monthly update on a certain day every month so we all know when to check in. We are all so in love with the Queen and the Prince that it feels like we are loosing a part of the family if we don’t get updates now and then. Thank you so much for all you have done for us keeping us informed all this time.

    • Tressia, that is the same thing I was thinking. Maybe an update once a month or every other month or through Facebook.. Going cold turkey is going to be hard and I know it was hard for Dottie to keep up this diary every day. Again Dottie, you are soooo appreciated by all of Zenyatta’s fans for the way you have kept up in the loop. Please take your time and enjoy some time off. Team Z, east and west, are the best. Zenyatta fans are #1. Equi-army-ndo.com came together because of these components and of course, the main ingredient, Zenyatta.
      Zenny and 12 Zenyatta, aka Prince, you are TOO CUTE and so very loved. You will always be in the thoughts and prayers of ZenNation.
      Good luck to Tasty Temptation and her foal and also Z’s other BFF’s.
      Lotsa Z love to all.