Zenyatta

Queen of Racing

Ask The Experts

Ask The Experts #6

Photo by Alys Emson/Lane’s End

Q:

We’re curious about the weaning process. Is separation done gradually over several weeks, or is it a fast process? If the latter, how do you deal with the mares’ and foals’ distress and stop them from, say, hurting themselves, when separated and perhaps trying to get back to each other? It seems like weaning would be awfully hard on the human handlers, too.

Trish & Mike

Highlands Ranch, CO

A: The weaning process starts between five and six months of age at Lane’s End. At this stage weaning has started to begin naturally—the foals will be playing and socializing with their buddies more and more and be quite independent when they are turned out.

We typically wean early in the morning so we have a whole day to observe the mares and the foals and make sure they are handling it well. The weaned mares and foals are on opposite sides of the farm so that they are unable to hear each other. This actually makes the separation much easier on both when there isn’t a constant reminder. They stay with the groups they have been with for the last few months so they draw comfort from each other, and it really is only a matter of a few days before they are happily settled into their new routine.

The weanlings continue to come into the barn everyday and have already been taught to eat on their own before being weaned, so their routine is much the same as before. They will be checked over and have their temp taken and their feet picked before going back out in the afternoon with their pals.

Our Expert

Donna Vowles

Assistant Broodmare Manager, Lane’s End

Originally from Birmingham, England, Donna joined the Lane’s End team in 2004. As Assistant Broodmare Manager, she devotes her time to ensuring the health and happiness of all the broodmares and their foals.

Reader Interactions

731 Comments

    • / Reply

      You are so right, Kathy. All animals appear to suffer when people don’t do the right thing. Sadly, it’s easier just to walk away than to ask for help. Shelters and rescues are full to the brim, and many are having to be fostered by people who already have multiple animals. In my book, if you breed an animal, you are the responsible party ultimately. The bottom line is not always the only consideration.

    • / Reply

      Kathy:

      Thanks for the link to the video! Made me sad too, I hope and pray “Thunder” gets a forever home! Too bad he can’t be a “pony horse” like “Sweet Hootie was, what a perfect job for this beautiful guy! Too bad he can’t be ridden! Going to the casino next weekend, if I should hit it big I will make a donation to “The Thunder” fund! Fingers and toes crossed! May the Luck of the Irish be with me!

      • / Reply

        Hello Kathy & GirlSaratooga:

        I have been in touch with Carol. She rescued and is taking care of Thunder. He needs help with his surgery. It is not a serious injury and can be fixed. Please spread the word around to go to his website. Thanks, Marilu

      • / Reply

        Trina:

        Thanks for the High Hoof! I think it helps if you bring plenty of treats! Which I always have plenty of!! Some of them even know, because they try to stick their noses into my pockets! Do I spoil them, absolutely, do they deserve it , most definitely! I still can’t decide who’s helping who?

        Thanks for the shout out!

    • / Reply

      Kathy, thanks for the link to Thunder.

      I checked the website and wrote to Carol. She is the beautiful lady that is taking care of Thunder. She wrote back and said she does not know how to send her message out to others about Thunder’s problem. She says she is not website savvy. Told her she is doing a great job sending the word out She believes if she gets enough donations he can have the surgery as he is still young. Right now not much help at all. Hope more people will see your link and read this too and send help. I wrote Carol not to give up because her video is good and has touched us. Told her she needs to put more info in her website so easier for others to decide how to help.

      Thanks again! Marilu

  2. / Reply

    TC and Max
    Would you think less of me if I tell you as I was mowing my lawn I had to stop and Duck Tape my left sneaker. I did use white so it would blend with the sort of white shoe. I guess that nails it I am a redneck.

  3. / Reply

    Thanks to the fabulous Donna Vowles for this info. on the weaning process at LE. I still remember watching & re-watching the videos on birthing that Donna hosted before Z-12 was born….I was one of those pacingpacingpacing Aunties and knowing a bit more about what Zenny would experience really helped….although I DID keep pacing!!!!

    Like so many of my Zen-ster friends here, I can’t help but feel for Zenny & Z-12 in those first few days when they will be separated. I will even admit to attaching human-like feelings to Zenny, based on my own experience as a mum. Then I catch myself and re-consider: Zenny is a horse — even though Heaven Sent — and she’ll likely be “sensible” about all this, just as she was about retiring and losing her Mario and her John (for all intensive purposes). Of course, it would be lovely if the weaning could happen as it does in the wild, but thoroughbreds aren’t mustangs and they’re part of a greater context — namely the whole horse racing industry. And I also remind myself that if I’m feeling sad that Zenny and her first-born will now be separated for life, I can only imagine what Ann & Jerry are feeling!

    I just hope that Zenny’s paddock pals are as supportive as are Rachel and her BFF, Hot Dixie Chick. After Taco was weaned, Stonestreet commented something like “…the sky could fall but Rachel would be fine, as long as Dixie is there.” I feel sad that Zenny lost Pirate Queen and the original band of mares, and now she seems to have lost Tasty Temptation too. But I do know that the Mosses, Dottie & John & David and the folks at Lane’s End will do the very best for her as she makes this transition…..

    Hugs to all, Abigail

    • / Reply

      Great post. We also have no doubt Zenny will handle this next chapter of her life as she has all others…with class and dignity. 12Z will always have the benefit of his early months with the greatest equine mom on the planet. He was loved greatly and will carry that feeling throughout his life, He is so lucky to be a part of her.

    • / Reply

      Dear Abigail,
      Horses have many many many friends throughout their
      Lives that come and go. Jethro had many close friends
      That he developed many strong bonds with, often going
      A little nutty, upset when he was left “alone” in the pasture when his
      Friend was being ridden. With the loss of each friend
      There was minimal emotional parting and a wonderful
      New friend would appear as arranged by humans that
      He bonded with and enjoyed. Zenny has been given
      A wonderful place to live to contribute her genes to
      The TB gene pool and she has many loving horses
      Now and people in her life.

      ZENNY YOU ARE THE BEST and lucky to live at
      Such a wondeful place like Lanes End.

    • / Reply

      Thanks, Abigail, for this. When I read that mom & her foal will call for each other, for a few days, I feel no doubt that in missing each other, they’re feeling hurt. Just because they are separated, can’t hear each other, and in a few days “are happily settled into their new routine”, and “handling it with class and dignity”, doesn’t mean that the hurt of their loss, did not happen. I surely appreciate all the things that the Farm does to ameliorate the hurt. And I understand that such decisions are made for the purposes of this horse racing industry. But I simply could not be willing to let the weaning happen in any way other than naturally — i.e., the more it’s done naturally, the better. I may be naive, but I would want to do more to let the horses decide when it’s time.

      • / Reply

        Hi there Judy….and I noticed Brenda, Delrene & others are here too — YEAH!!!

        Daisy Doodlebug remains the sweetest girl ever and so willing to respond to anything you ask of her that it gets me teary-eyed. She may have grown some (friends swear up & down that she’s bigger, but I don’t see that) and she now knows that this is her forever home. She remains pretty ambivalent about other dogs and is skittish around men she doesn’t know — women & children are always great, as far as the Doodle is concerned. Now we’re working on “confidence” — Daisy is really lacking in that department & uses her intuition way too much because of it. So we do exercises together — I let her take me for a walk or I hide a toy & she needs to get it back from me or I take her somewhere new and she learns new can be okay or I ask her stuff like “Do you want a cookie?” or “Time to go outside?” and wait until she responds to me.

        I’ve now had about 5 different people tell me that she is definitely a dog from up North and probably was a “street kid” until brought down South to Montreal. If she is, that’s still another link to Jericho since, as I know you know, he was christened my “spirit dog” by a Cree friend, Daisy Bearskin Hirodier. Interesting, right? But I really do believe that that world where all threads are connected does exist, proof or not.

        She grows more beautiful every day. She’s elegant, gracious, intelligent & kind. I am blessed to have her in my life. She’s a treasure!

        Love & hugs, Abigail

        • Dear Abigail:

          Great to hear how well Daisy D. is doing. Also, how lucky she is to have such a doting Mommy, but I’ve a feeling she knows that. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      AJ,
      Thanks for this link! This is fantastic, and I, too, will be watching for him and Whisper.
      I do sincerely hope they do well. I hope the equestrian events will be given proper air time — the Brits do love horses and dogs so I am remaining optimistic.
      Cheers!

    • / Reply

      Lovely story, AJ. I especially like the lines at the end: “I am a better rider at 70 than I was at 40. Most people can’t tell but my body is getting a little weaker. My horse knows it and she helps me.” Sweet!

  5. / Reply

    To anyone who can help?

    Once Z-Girl and 12Z are weaned what happens? I know they are separated forever, but where does 12Z go? Will he stay at Lane’s End? Does he go to another barn? I know the Moss’s will maintain ownership, will John retain training rights? (If he wants). This is all a little unsettling for me as I am a human, and not a horse, so there are some human feelings coming into play! I have no doubt that both Z-Girl and 12Z will do fine thanks in part to LE, and I am sure they will keep us all updated, as they kindly have done in the past months.

    Wishing them all the best!

    • / Reply

      He will be put into a pasture with his friends and they will get to be pre-teens.

    • / Reply

      12 Z will become a Weanling when he is separated
      To play with his friends and learn manners.

      He will then become a yearling, then as a two year old
      Go to another barn, Mayberry’s ? For race traing!!!

      • / Reply

        Zenyatta was sent to the Mayberrys in Ocala, Florida, when she was purchased at the September 2005 yearling sales — she was a year and a half old. She spent the next six months getting her basic training at the Mayberrys, and when she turned two in April of 2006, she was shipped to John Shirreffs in Hollywood Park.

    • / Reply

      UnFortunately, Zenny and 12 Z are not human so
      They DO NOT have your feeling, they have their
      Own horse feelings.

      • / Reply

        Thanks for the info, I appreciate your expertise and the change of events that will follow 12Z. Despite what you must think of me, I know Zenny and 12Z are NOT HUMANE, and have horse feelings not people feelings, it’s like having a litter of pups or kittens, you sell them or give them away to good homes and the moms never see them again. I got it! I said it was unsettling to me, maybe because I was unsure what was to happen next, but thanks to you I now know. They say you learn something new everyday, well today I learned a lot thanks to this site. I am very appreciative of everyone’s knowledge when comes to foal and mare’s.

        Thanks Again!

        • We all learn everyday and if you have not had a horse or been around them
          it is difficult not to think they are human.

          It is very sad when humans have horses and do not speak their language,
          the horses are very sad !!!

      • / Reply

        Sign:

        I have been around horses, and I’d like to think I speak “horse”, I have worked for several farms, but they were not breeding or “high profiled” farms. I love horses more than I love people, they are easier to talk to! I will admit sometimes I do forget they are not human, my fellow co-workers make fun of me, but I don’t care, my job is to care for the horses. I also volunteer at a Rescue Facility for unwanted and abused horses, where most of these horses just want to be loved, brushed, bathed, and ridden just for fun. So as you can see I am no expert when it comes to mare’s and their foal’s, but it is sure nice to be able to learn about the things I don’t know!

        I appreciate you taking the time to teach me, it’s valuable info!
        GirlSaratoga

        • High hoof to you for your volunteer work at the horse rescue! I’m sure the horses love you!

        • GirlSaratoga,
          You rock, and you have a kind heart, too! I, too, am positive that the horses you care for at the rescue and at your work truly appreciate you and love you. Thanks so much for the wonderful job! You’re an angel!
          All the best!

        • Dear GirlSaratoga:

          Have to add you to my “Horse Heroes” List. God Bless. Hugs, JB

        • GirlSaratoga-You sound like a fine person. Talking to your horses certainly does not make you less human, but more so.

  6. / Reply

    If I am calculating correctly 12z is not five months old until august 8. So maybe he will have another month or so with Mum. Why are we all assuming the weaning will happen soon?

    • / Reply

      It will be sometime after August 8 and that was said
      By Lanes End the week he was born !!!

  7. / Reply

    WHOOO !!!! HOOO!!!!

    Perfect ride on Winter Memories by Javier Castellano,
    Winner of Diana Stakes; tail flagging with irritation as she was urged
    On by the whip !!!!!

      • / Reply

        She sure is Darlene, and her mom Memories of Silver?? won that race too.
        I love how she is so finicky, too. Lots and lots and lots to say !!!

        • Yeah for the tailing flipping, Winter Memories!! Also, congrats to Alpha!
          Now, I’ve been to nbc to watch today’s equine re-plays but, it won’t let me. Anyone have any other ideas? Much appreciated. I love the equine events!!

        • Dear Sign, Heidie and Z Fans:

          Congrats to Winter Memories and Bernie’s Boy, Alpha. Hugs, JB

  8. / Reply

    Hey Z Fans:

    Just went on drf.com/new/rachel-alexandra-colt-name-announcement-jess-dream.com Wow they are really bashing the Jackson’s, the colt’s name, anyone or anything in regards to Rachel Alexandra, if anyone is also a fan of Rachel’s maybe you lend her a little support! That group is pretty brutal! Helping Z’s old stable mate and friend out! Sending Love and Support to a friend of Z’s!

      • / Reply

        Sign,

        I believe she is talking about the comments under the article. The article is nice but some of those comments are pretty nasty.

        • Darlene:

          Yes the comments not the article itself, sorry for the confusion! The article is lovely the comments not so much! Thanks for correcting me!

        • I read the article yesterday on drf and some of the comments. Yes, they are pretty hostile and rude but, you should read the replies on her FB page. WOW!!
          I remember how nasty things got when RA and Zenny were racing. The fights and I was amidst those trying to defend both parties except for Jess Jackson.
          After the wood, she was never the same!

          However, I’m on both camps but, I just love Zenny all the more and that has everything to do with Zenny herself but, also, how special and gracious the entire team was with the fans. And, to provide us with this forum, is fabulous for us Fans. Go Team Z!!

        • Would agree with this. I was never a big fan of Jess Jackson but some of these comments were strictly nasty and uncalled for. After all, the man is dead. Have some respect folks.

      • / Reply

        It is just so interesting that people who can not afford to buy or keep a race horse or have any knowlege of how to care for or train a horse criticize a name.

        Barbara was very gracious/generous to give the fans a chance to name the colt.
        She did not have to, the naming of a horse can be a very personal thing and she
        allowed the public to name her sweet baby boy.

        THANKS BARBARA BANKE FOR GIVING THE FANS THIS OPPORTUNITY !!!!

        • I agree 100% Sign.
          Class act,all the way.
          It makes me emotional ,knowing how much Jess Jackson contributed to the racing world and how he loved his horses.

          Sharing the love is a good thing. Thanks Barbara Banke.

    • / Reply

      Thanks for posting the race Sign.
      It just can’t any better than that,a turf race and a beautiful run.
      Great job Winter Memories.
      Under the whip…she was saying, OK, OK, I have this, back off buck-o!
      She is a lovely filly.

      • / Reply

        Definately Ann,

        Millie Ball from HRTV, who was an exercise rider, commented on how he first
        used the whip and she changed leads, then she easily changed back to the right one and then all that tail swishing was your are right “leave me alone, I’ve got it”.

        I think he used the whip to make she she kept ahead of the Euro filly, who
        could have easily won had WM faltered or was only on a hand ride. I think the whip was more of an offensive move. The trainer talked about what a fast closer the Euro was going to be, also Javier kept her closer to the pace that usual because there was so much speed, he did not want her to get slowed down or buried. He had her in the clear from the beginning.

        Winter Memories showed her “mother” proud !!!!

        • Yes, she made her mother proud!!!
          She is one smart gal and I love em like that too sign.
          Wonder will she will race next….please keep us posted, if you find out. I don’t want to miss her.She’s a beauty with heart!

  10. / Reply

    I feel like Zenny and Baby Z will be fine. When they are first seperated it will be probably sad for all of us. I know I will be sad, just the human feelings coming into play. In my heart I do wish they could just eye each other a bit. But, that is not realistic in thinking that is going to happen and even it might make matters worse. I just know what a huge loving heart Zenny seems to have and all horses just handle things differently It’s just different with baby Z going to be a race horse. He will probably have a life journey planned out for him. Not like just a riding horse in the pasture.
    I feel like baby z will probably be atLane’s End untill next year when he turns 1 and then he will probably go for his young training to one of the great trainers in Florida, Jeanne Mayberry or John Stephens (Barbaro’s Trainer) Baby Z I know will get the best and these are the two best I could think of. I believe South Carolina has a very good traing center also. But my bet would be he will go down to Florida. Look how great Mom Z turned out and OMG I will cry now thinking about Barbaro. Street Cry and Dynaformer you really had some heaven sent younsters.
    I am I will first admit no expert but I believe Zenyatta and Baby Z Will be just fine. They have wonderful owners and terrific people to take care of them at Lane’s End and Beyond. And the Good Lord to look after all of us.

    • / Reply

      Dear Peggy N.

      Hope The Prince goes to Jeanne Mayberry in Florida too like Z did. Maybe if you get to Ocala again in the future, you might try to visit Mayberry Farm and give us an update if he’s there. Wouldn’t that be great. Hugs, JB

      • / Reply

        Yes, I would love to do that. I have already thought about that myself too. I suppose he will be going next spring when he turns l.

    • / Reply

      Sign. How about that Lucano? Great photo. I also liked the others. You do not see a picture of the Green Monkey every day.

    • / Reply

      Dear Sign, Max and S Fans:

      Thanks for the Slideshow of Lucarno’s 2007 win in the St. Leger. He’s gorgeous. Photo No. 6 brought back bittersweet memories of Eibar Coa winning on Lear’s Princess. Looks like he’s not going to be able to return to riding. He was always one of my favorite riders. Hugs, JB

  13. / Reply

    This is a great video from the “Its my job” series that shows what
    a yearling must learn, which is to walk with a human and good ground manners”.

    These things are what 12 Z will be learning as a yearling even though he is not going to be sold.

    http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/its-my-job/

    • / Reply

      Sign. I agree with sue and tony that Zenyatta learned all of her lessons and got As. I do not think that Dynaformer would cooperate on most of these things. He once bit off a finger and ran away with it. You are so bad, Big D, but we love you anyway.

      • / Reply

        Dear Max,

        Dynaformer may have failed ground manners, but he did a great job in the shed, but cost Three Chimneys lots of money in replacing all the feed buckets, bars on his stall, stall door etc…. that he chose to engage with his wonderful personality.

        Guess Frankel has learned a few lessons from Big D.

    • / Reply

      Sign:

      Thanks for the video, it was very informative, what a nice job Mr. Martinez has! I forgot to ask you how old is Street Life?\

      Thanks!

      • / Reply

        I was so very interesting that Mr. Martinez spends one hour a day walking the
        yearlings so they are very relaxed when being led and able to deal with sights
        and sounds when they are being lead by a human.

        Also, very interesting that they make sure the size of the person leading the horse in appropriate to make the horse look his/her best.

        Street Life I believe is 4 yo. He had some shin issues that he had surgery on and was off for quite a while, but has returned to the track with great exuberance.

        • OOPS !!

          Street Life in a 3 year old and he did not have any injuries, that was another horse I read about today.

  16. / Reply

    Dear GirlSaratoga:

    Here’s a video of the Real Quiet filly (Hip 355) out of Bluff N’ Polish. She’s a beauty, but can’t find a name on her yet.

    http://www.fasigtipton.com/fasig-tiptontv/index.asp?t=1&year=2012&show=1&pag=14&channelId=e8531cff633b4408b230efc66e98cd48&mediaId=ed424ec52a5a4263a47eca08f1be162a&secondChannelId=91bac21d137a49ab8b092b4aa934eafb

    Here’s the video on the Skip Away colt (Hip 440) our of Fair Game (may be one of the last foals of Skip Away). Another beautiful boy. Can’t find a name on him either. Maybe they just have not be registered yet. Hope this comes through OK. Hugs, JB

    http://www.fasigtipton.com/fasig-tiptontv/index.asp?t=1&year=2012&show=1&pag=18&channelId=e8531cff633b4408b230efc66e98cd48&

  17. / Reply

    Dear GalSaratoga:

    For some reason the wrong Hip No. videos are coming through. Will try another way. Hugs, JB

  18. / Reply

    Dear GirlSaratoga:

    OOPs, I goofed. The colt was sold to KOID and the filly to KnockOnWoodTwice. Reversed them by mistake. I’m confusing myself. Hugs, JB

  20. / Reply

    The Olympics are on! Yay! The American team is rocking in gymnastics this year.

    • / Reply

      Judy:

      Wow! thanks for the link to Storm Cat, he looks fantastic for 29! Nice to see him living in the lap of luxury, he deserves it! Barbara is right you should be a detective or a private I. If you should find anything out about my colt or filly please let me know, I promise not to bother or pester you! You have been more than kind with your links and info, I don’t want to impose! This whole blogging has been such a wonderful experience and a very fulfilling one too!

      You new friend, GirlSaratoga!

      • / Reply

        Dear GirlSaratoga:

        For some reason having trouble posting to your Reply. Third time’s a charm.
        Just wanted to say don’t hesitate to ask; anything I can find on the colt and filly, I will post.

        Z’sters are some of the finest people we could ever call friends. Kari B. was a special lady and I’m sure she is “chillin” with all the wonderful horses she loved and watching over Z and the Prince. Hugs, JB

        • Dear Judy,

          You are one of the best “detectives on this site”. Always finding the best and unique videos and posting things from the past every now and then as an update.

          Thanks so much !!!

    • / Reply

      JudyB. This is a wonderful link. I love Storm Cat. I also love his mom and dad. A great family of noble horses. Live long and prosper, Storm Cat.

      • / Reply

        Dear Max and Sign:

        Storm Cat looks really good for 29. Always loved him too. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      What a lovely link on the great Storm Cat.
      He looks so wonderful for 29 yo, the sway back tells the story of his age,
      but that eye in the last photo still shows his determination.

    • / Reply

      Thanks Judy,
      Great story. Shows how respectful the grandson is and understands how a horse changed his life. Like Curlin and Rachel A for the Jackson family. They are respectful of the impact these horses have on our lives. Class acts! Oh and Zenny….wow!

      It is nice they share them with us and make them a big part of our lives too. A big thanks goes out to all of these folks, that understand how special it is, to be touched by a horse.

      Lookin good champ!

    • / Reply

      Dear Judy,

      Dis you see I posted on the last page/ it great information on what 12Z will be doing as his ground manners as a weanling/yearling.

      • / Reply

        Dear Sign:

        Will look for your post on 12Z. Didn’t know you had posted the new Episode 3 on “It’s My Job”. We did it again, great minds……..Hugs, JB

        • Dear Judy,

          See above, also posted ground manners, which 12 Z will be learning in between his play time with his new friends. What a crazy time it must be taking care of those rambunctious weanlings and yearlings.

          Remember Larry Jones wife recently fell and broke some ribs trying
          to train a yearling, that one wanted not part some someone on his back.

      • / Reply

        Dear Sign and Max:

        Found your link on what 12Z will be learning in his training. He is a handful (I think we’ve heard the same thing about Z as a youngster). Hope he goes to the Mayberry’s as they were just right with Z. Looks like he may be a big boy and he will need good manners to be handled easily. The first part of his journey to follow in Mom and Dad’s footsteps. Praying always for his good health and soundness. Hugs, JB

        • Dear Judy B.

          Very well said, safety and soundness to all the young weanlings that
          are going to be learning their ground manners and important play
          behavior to establish their rank among their peers.

          HAVE FUN LANES END WITH THESE YOUNGSTERS !!!!!!

        • JudyB. 12Z will do well on his own because he is smart as well as being full of spirit and character like his mother. If you go by another top quality horse, Baby Z should have no problems. He like Frankel is with experts all of the time.
          Frankel travelled around a lot before he arrived at the track. He was born in England in February 2008, but soon after went to Ireland with his dam when she visited Galileo again. They stayed in Ireland for about 3 months and then went back to England where Frankel was weaned at the same age as 12Z. After that, he was turned out with his friends until he went back to Ireland as a yearling where he learned his etiquette. It was all easy. In January 2010, he returned to England to train with Henry Cecil. You know the rest. No problems at all.

        • Dear Max and Sign:

          12Z already has confidence and a sweet nature, I think (like Z and Bernie). You’re right. He’s smart and he’ll learn his lessons easily. Hope Lane’s End keeps us updated on him as he moves along in training. Hugs, JB

          Max,

          I did not know that Frankel had traveled as a youngster. Wow, there is a great example of confidence and poise and look at him today. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Judy & Sign, thanks for the “What’s My Job” links — very informative videos of life on the backside!

    • / Reply

      Sign:

      Thanks for the link to see Alpha win the Jim Dandy! Got smart this am and came here first! Wow, he runs like his daddy! I was at the Travers in 2006 and saw Bernardini win, It was a cold rainy day, and the track was muddy! But what a race, it’s one day I will NEVER forget! Went to the Travers last year to see “Uncle Mo”, this time it was probably one of the hottest days of the year! What a treat to see “Uncle Mo” and “Stay Thirsty”! “Uncle Mo” was like a celebrity that day, and he was so calm and poised, and he is gorgeous in person!(He must have done well in his manners training!) Does anyone know how “Uncle Mo” is doing? He’s had quite a struggle with injuries, and illness’s?

      Thanks Again for the link!

      • / Reply

        Oh yes,

        Alpha looked just like his daddy, the mud did not phase him a bit and he
        ran on an off track just like his daddy did, too.

        Go Go Go Bernie’s babies !!!!!

        • Sign:

          Does that mean Street Life and Alpha will possibly run against each other of August 25th, Travers Day? Oh No, who to route for? Exact Box to Win!

          happy Sunday to All!

      • / Reply

        GirlSaragota. The last heard from Mo is that he is at Ashford Stud, which is owned by Coolmore America. Apparently he is doing well as a stallion, although he said that he had some trouble understanding what the Coolmore guys were saying. Mo should be success as a sire because he always loved the fillies. He was a brilliant 2 year old. It is sad that his career was cut short by illness. Miss him and his website. His disguises especially his mustaches were the best.

        • Max:

          Thanks for the update on my sweet “Uncle Mo”. I hope he gets the hang of his job as a stud, with his temperament and his handsome good looks, I think he would produce some fine colt’s. He did have a rough time, so I hope he is being treated like a “king”! I miss him too!

          Thanks for the info!

    • / Reply

      Thanks sign. I had no idea somebody really does this each year. The weird and the wonderful!

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      sign-Thanks for posting the pictures. These guys look like they are having a better time than some of the olympic athletes. @Ann-You know you are going to a redneck church when the bathrtooms are outside. @Max-Your post reminded me of the commercials that were running a few years ago”Look for the Union Label…”

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        Terry:

        Saw your post about Jess Jackson, and I agree, the man is dead, and his wife is still alive, have some common courtesy! It’s a name of a horse! The name is not going determine whether this colt is a winner or looser! I agree with
        Sign, the naysayers are all WET!. And I too want to “Thank” Barbara Banke’s for sharing her wonderful experience with all of us!

        I don’t know the back story regarding Jess Jackson, but I do like some of his wine!
        I guess sometimes ignorance is bliss! Rachel and Curlin were 2 beautiful winners and now they have “Jess’s Dream” aka “Taco”! My guess is the people who are bashing the name, Jess, and Barbara, probably wouldn’t have liked any name? And now “Taco” and Prince Z are gonna have a half little sis!

        Wishing the Rachel Alexandra Team all the best!

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        TerryC. I remember that campaign. Good idea. I have US made polos which are at least 10 years old, but look brand new. They wear like iron. Asian made seem to fall apart and not even duct tape can save them. I also buy only US made duct tape. I got a refill last week. Paid a bit more but I figure that I am doing something positive for the economy and jobs.

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    Kathy, thanks for the link to Thunder.

    I checked the website and wrote to Carol. She is the beautiful lady that is taking care of Thunder. She wrote back and said she does not know how to send her message out to others about Thunder’s problem. She says she is not website savvy. Told her she is doing a great job sending the word out .She believes if she gets enough donations he can have the surgery as he is still young. Right now not much help at all. Hope more people will see your link and read this too and send help. I wrote Carol not to give up because her video is good and has touched us. Told her she needs to put more info in her website so easier for others to decide how to help.

    Thanks again! Marilu
    .

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      Thanks for the link Sign. Having decided that I will NEVER be able to catch up on TB history, I decided to try learning about some of the current horses. Just a couple of days ago, I looked into Tapit on that pedigree query site (once Judy B taught me how it works). I thought I would find out who his progeny are so that I could follow them. I can just see you all rolling on the floor laughing, and it’s too bad no one was here to see the look on my face when the list came up!!! I’ll have to find another approach :-)

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      Dear Sign, Sandy B. and Z Fans:

      Sign, thank you for these photos of tapit. He has such a beautiful face and kind eyes. Hope 13Z is a beautiful gray girl. Whatever, we’ll love her or him. Hugs, JB

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    Thoroughbred’s off the track are well known for having good ground manners,
    for the most part. They are trained at a very early age 2, wheresas most of the other
    breeds are still hanging out in the pasture and not working.

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