Happy Saturday!
Wow! David just returned from a one day business trip to CA (also saw Dottie and John for a fun visit) and said it was 80 degrees there. This weather thing never ceases to amaze me! It is a bit chilly here still in Lexington…but I feel I’ve acclimated beautifully!
I wanted to show the Secretariat image that they gave Dottie as a gift as well. Here John has me ‘jogging playfully’ right beside BIG RED! What a thrill!
John also took a photo of us…side by side. He put HIM a bit in front…just so you could see both of us. Both Dottie and John felt that they did a wonderful job with our images…and this is truly a special gift they were given. A great way to remember the EVENT!
All else is going very well for me! I have put on a few pounds, I’m getting so many sweet notes and cards from all of you, and I am enjoying my time with my friends. Yesterday, Don Robinson (the man who foaled me and raised me at his farm until I went to the Yearling Sale) and his family came to visit me again. He called Dottie and told her HOW FABULOUS I LOOK! Don’s comment to her was…”ZENYATTA IS JUST SO HAPPY. SHE LOOKS AMAZING….AND YOU CAN SEE SHE IS ONE VERY HAPPY HORSE ENJOYING HER NEW LIFESTYLE!”
In truth, I REALLY AM! David was telling Dottie that there are times when he and Michael Cline (from our farm) watch me when I’m playing in my paddock…and they literally see me “JUMP FOR JOY”. I REALLY DO! I literally JUMP UP IN THE AIR WITH ALL 4 OF MY FEET and PLAYFULLY LOOK AROUND!
I have so much fun when I do this! Dottie thought hearing this was so adorable. She told David…she could truly capture this image in her mind. Ironically, my dear friend, SOPHIE SHIRREFFS does this same type of thing. Dottie and John tease about it all of the time!
So cute! I guess Sophie and I really do have LOTS in common! We are 2 very blessed and fortunate ’4 Legged Friends’!
Smile…have a wonderful Saturday…and TAKE CARE! I hope you can encounter something fun today which encourages you to JUMP FOR JOY!
With Love,
Hugs to All~
Z
Snoprinz
Thanks for sharing these two mini-images of Big Red and Zenyatta. They look lovely together. Every Zenyatta post is uplifting. I read it at night before I go to bed and I always have a relaxing sleep. Take care Zenny and Happy Valentine’s Day.
Dawn Conrad
Dearest, Zenyatta. Loved the video of Don’s visit and his story was so touching. Sarah, your laugh was infectious, thank you for sharing. Sweet dreams, Zenny. Hugs and kisses. XXXOOO
@Jane at Seattle – I am one of those who watched Secretariat run in 1973 and have loved him every since. I just wanted to give you a little information directly from Bill Nack and Seth Hancock concerning his wonderful temperment. Bill wrote: “Secretariat was an amiable, gentlemanly colt, with a poised and playful nature that at times made him seem as much a pet as the stable dog was. By his personality and temperment, Secretariat became the most engaging character in the barn. He was extremely intelligent, loved to play tricks such as taking my notepad out of my hand or grabbing a rake out of his grooms hands and pulling it across the stall floor. He always knew where cameras were and always stopped to look people directly in the eye, welcoming them and waiting for them to take a picture.” Seth Hancock wrote, “Ten thousand people come to this farm every year, and all they want to see is Secretariat. You want to know who Secretariat is in human terms? Just imagine the greatest athlete in the world. The greatest. Now make him six-foot-three, the perfect height. Make him real intelligent and kind. And on top of that , make him the best-lookin guy ever to come down the pike. He was all those things as a horse. He isn’t even a horse anymore. He’s a legend.” I hope that helps you know how very special his character was. His fans were just like us and our beautiful, Zenny, crowding around him at Claiborne, reaching out a hand to touch his side and getting a picture with their hero. He and Zenyatta are a great deal alike in so many ways including their kindness.
S
@lanie, Margaret and Barbara….count me in. I will look up the site, tomorrow. Are the petitions on line?
Jane in Seattle
@Dawn Conrad,
That is wonderful to hear. I have often wondered in the years since then (I saw Secretariat win the Kentucky Derby, but not after) if I may have mixed up the comments about him being so mean with another horse. But I do remember for sure, the beautiful color that he was in the sun, and how much smoother his running seemed than the other horses…He was like a ballerina, it looked so effortless, you were always surprised to hear how hard he was breathing.
Sharon in Ohio
Hi Zenny, I am just jumping for joy from, seeing how creative John, is getting with his Z and S, statues. How open and wonderful everyone has been to share so much with us…what a blessing. Of course, the both of you look fab, together!
It was wonderful to see your new visitor….your former owner. He has a wonderful love for you and I loved the story that he told about YOU, that YOU never forgot him !! How walking through a crowd long after he had sold you…you stopped and turned…looked directly at him,as to say where have you been? Loving all of the Zenny storys we all can get!
Of course you are so smart, and would never forget the love you were given as a baby and growing into a yearling. It shows in your wonderful personality and beautiful nature…you are pure love. I could see the love in your beautiful eyes. They say, The eyes are the window to the soul….I could see yours. Also, it is so nice that your loving ,loyal visitors remember, one the carrots, and two the mints !!! Presents, presents, presents to YOU !! So, love is in the air for YOU Z, and we are having an enchanting selection of Valentine Vistors, to the royal court. The is a wonderful month for you, in lot’s of ways…as we all know and are waiting for. xoxoxoxoo !!
Sharon in Ohio
This is a wonderful month for YOU, in lot’s of ways !!
Stephanie J Lambert
No RaceHorse on this planet has earned being turned out to pasture more than you sweetheart, enjoy it and have fun, There is nothing better than playing outside with your friends with no one to bug you, no planes overhead, no people to constantly pose for, just the fields, birds and wind to contend with. I am so happy for you, you have achieved the highest of goals for us and made everyone so happy and proud and now you are enjoying your own life and are going to give us babies to love….You have done it all, I love you so much x0x0x0x0
Mary Alice Kier
Dear Zenyatta – it’s so wonderful that you contiue to enjoy your new life at Lane’s End. And, I did see your very own Dottie and John today at Santa Anita. It was quite a day as Zardana was racing in The Santa Maria Stakes and she really put her best hoof forward and only came up very short to take the second place to Vision In Gold. Looking forward to seeing more videos of you kicking up your heels in joy. Meantime, all of your fans out here So Cal miss you as I heard your name mentioned so many times at Santa Anita that I lost count!
Robin A.B.
A NEW STYLE OF DANCE FOR Z!!!! I hope they can someday capture your lates “4 hooves in the air” rapture on video!
lizzy
Response to what Borntobreed said:vvvv
.
“@L and The Kennedys
In a previous post, Zennie/Dottie asked John who
Knows Zenny the best whether she has alpha characteristics
And he said he never saw signs of alpha/dominant
Behavior in all the years he worked with her. I believe that
he is the expert on Zenyatta’s behavior. The flick of her
Ears back at Sea Gull in the video with Mike was her
Talking to Sea Gull and telling her to get out of the way.
Please respect John’s expertise on Zenyatta!!!!”
.
.
No one is disrespecting John!!! That is your filter. I’ve always enjoyed your post Borntobreed, but you’re falling into a bad habit…attempting to be moderator of selective comments on this board. If someone chooses to ask a question on here, it should be of no concern to you. There are many things that are posted on here not related to Z, or questions that have been asked 100x over that have already been answered, BUT this should bother no one AND if it does then those people need to do a self-check. Posters on here chastising those on this board that innocently inquire about anything horse, or talk about personal struggles, mustangs being abused, or happen to attach a link to an eagle cam are missing the gift of this board entirely. You see it is Z who has brought us all together. THAT is her gift to US and that is all the matters.
Jess
WOW!!! Such joy you bring to my heart. Have a terrific Sunday Big Mama!!! And happy Valentines Day Z. I Love, love, love ya!!
Kisses and hugs coming your way!!!!!
Maria
Queen Z, It’s great that you’re having lots of fun playing and jumping around in your paddock. We miss you so much here in California. I love you!
Victoria
Quite simply — ur the best!! Secretariat ain’t too bad either.
William
Reading your posts and seeing your pictures always takes my mind off of the stress of lifes aggravation. Thank you soo much for this and I hope it keeps coming! I smile at least once a day:-)
Holly Zemba
I’m so happy you are enjoying your retirement, but most of all so happy you keep in touch with your fans. I love the picture of you and “Big Red”
Becky F
On a very long plane ride back to Maryland from Las Vegas last night, the pilot only came on once to tell us we were about an hour from landing and we were flying over Lexington KY! I wonder if he is a Zenny Fan too? Anyway, I whispered a “sweet goodnight” to you and feel sure you heard me. Sweet dreams every night, beautiful girl!
HappyHarriet
Hi Queen Zenyatta! The pictures of you and Secretariat are precious. The model catches your spirit, Z! I watched Secretariat (the movie) again last week, and I’m reading the book now as well, so to see the model of “Big Red” next to YOU really takes my breath away. (Off topic comment: WOW love the book and found it amazing to see how the movie created drama but certainly re-wrote parts of history!)
.
To get a visit from Don must have had you jumping for joy even more than usual, and Don as well! One of the most beautiful articles I’ve read is the interview with Don Robinson in which he talks about his most memorable moment with Our Queen. Here’s the link: http://thesaturdaypost.org/blog/2010/11/15/don-robinson-talks-about-zenyatta-as-a-young-horse-at-winter-quarter-farm/ for the few of you who may have missed it.
.
How John, Dottie, David and the whole team can do so much, I’m not sure, but they always make us jump for joy, especially when there’s news from our Queen Z with the invisible Angel wings. :) Thanks to the Divine Dottie, VOZ (Voice of Zenyatta), who always hits the right tone of inspiration and uplifting energy, just like Big Z.
Julie Ann in O.C. CA.
Dearest Zenny, (Dottie and John : )) The pictures are a wonderful comparison. Thanks! I’m learning so much about your world and the world of horses here…and all because of you, Zenyatta and the insightful posts of everyone. We are so incredibly connected in this digital world….a touch, and a click away! Keep jumping for JOY!
ABRAZOTES….Julie Ann
Leslie R.
Hi Zenny, you make me jump for joy! I’m very thankful that you are still in touch with all of us. Thanks to Dottie and all of Team Z for making this possible!
I agree, they did a wonderful job with your images. You and Secretariat both look fantastic!
It makes me very happy to hear that you are enjoying your new lifestyle. You truly deserve the best of everything!
@Catherine Uher, I’m keeping good thoughts for you.
Hugs & love to all,
Leslie
Deana Dameron
Thanks so much for sharing your video with us. I am sure that you and Don had a nice visit. It appears that you really appreciate the treats that everyone brings you. From what I have read from many of your fans comments on this page, we all would love to see more pictures and videos of you and your gal pals in the paddock. Since I cannot see you on the track anymore I long to see you as you are now, running, kicking, dancing, etc. with your new friends. Hope to see you soon Z. Have a blessed day.
sue
Thank you for everything you have done, all you are doing and all that you will continue to do. Zenyatta can feel all the love that her team has surrounded her with. Each one of you played a different role in her life but all so important. Each one of you I have the upmost respect for including Mike Smith and of course David Flores who started Zenyatta on her way. Thank you all for sharing Zenyatta with the world. She is such a blessing.
Donna
How about naming the foal MONDATTA, just a thought.
Mary
Dearest Zenyatta
What cute pictures of you with Secretariat he was the first race horse name I ever remember hearing as a young woman. And everyone knows what a great horse he was. I myself didn’t really grab the magic of race horses until you Zenyatta. I have followed your whole career as a race horse and now as a playful fun girl, how fun for me. I planned vacations around which track you would be at lol I guess I will have to get to Kentucky to see you again…and I hope to just to pet you:)
ZENYATTA I LOVE YOU!!!!
sue
Let us not forget the awareness that Zenyatta has brought to the racing industry and horses in general. Thank God for all of you who are praying for the horses that are not so fortunate. Barbaro aided greatly in different causes and he-along with others-should not be forgotten.
ENSIGN
@ Lizzy,
.
My appologies, appears I’ve missed this discussion in past posts regarding alpha and lead mares, but it seems it’s been answered by a VERY good source, atleast regarding Zenyatta : )
.
@ Kathryn Cogswell,
.
There has been talk ‘in the industry’ for eons on how to set up some fund for a horse’s retirement. Rather than typing away here, I’ll include this link that shares some of the ideas that have been thought up and the ensuing issues in instituting these ideas:
http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/scot/archive/2009/07/20/thoroughbred-racehorse-retirement.aspx
ENSIGN
@ DONNA,
.
The Moss’ already have a mare named Mondatta ;-)
T Avey
I jump for Zenyatta… joy!
Barbara Wood
@S–thanks for caring. I think just about any horse rescue could point you in the direction of petition-signing. One that comes to my mind that is up-to-speed on the issue of the BLM is Front Range Equine Rescue in Colorado. Hope this helps.
Astrid
@ENSEIGN – Hi, did you see this recent article on Bloodhorse? it’s excellent!
http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/finalturn/archive/2011/02/08/getting-a-handle-on-after-care-by-gary-biszantz.aspx
@Catherine Uhler – sending you good thoughts!
Zenny, love you and Secretariat side by side! My uncle got to meet Secretariat in Woodbine. My uncle raced pacers and he stood in front of Red’s stall, often talking to his jockey and groom. My uncle is a great guy, took in a few ex-racers.
Keep jumping for joy, sweet Zenny. You deserve it! Your thousands of fans are jumping from joy with every diary post from you! Have a fun day with P.Q, Seagull and Alys!
*** and thank you to whoever posted about the youtube Secretariat link “Running from within” Just beautiful!
Anne
Good Morning, Z,
I loved the models of you both. Secretariat’s model looks like the picture I have framed here in my livingrooom with his mane flying in the breeze along with his muscles prominent. He is in his paddock just like the ones we have of you running and leaping in the air on that first day you were set free at Lane’s End. How fitting to have models of the best from 2 different times.
Although, after watching the racing yesterday from SA and other tracks, it brought back racing moments of you, I know you are truly happy with your new life and friends. I am glad to see your old buds coming to visit you and give a first “eyed” view to us of your happiness. We all want you to be happy,healthy and content.
Thanks too, for your pep talks. Encourgement helps us all.