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2013 Zenyatta.com Celebration Announcement

Zenyatta and Mike Smith, 2009 Breeders' Cup Classic. Photo courtesy of AP Photo / Jae C. Hong.
Zenyatta and Mike Smith, 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic. AP Photo / Jae C. Hong.

Team Z is pleased to announce the first ever Zenyatta.com Celebration!

On Saturday Nov. 2, we will hold a special online-only event in honor of Zenyatta’s fans and her legacy. The event will go live on a special section of Zenyatta.com that morning, and everyone is invited.

There will be a celebration discussion, a live feed of fan photos, and the opportunity to bid on exclusive items in an online auction benefitting racing-related charities.

The auction will include items such as a limited edition mug, signed prints and memorabilia, and an invitation to meet Zenyatta at Lane’s End. We will release a detailed description of all auction items in advance of the event.

We hope the Zenyatta.com Celebration will be the perfect compliment to Breeders’ Cup weekend for Zenyatta fans all over the world. We can’t wait to see you there!

-Team Z

Reader Interactions

406 Comments

  1. / Reply

    I haven’t posted in a while, but I visit Zenyatta and friends via this site every day for a happy fix!

    Thank you Team Z for offering an event that those of us who are geographically challenged can attend. Thank you,thank you.

    A chance to visit herself — I may need to postpone buying a new car, or buy a used one instead. I’m tired of being practical and responsible. When you think about it, how many chances in life do we get to actually make a dream come true?

    Looking forward to the BC, now more than ever!
    Hugs to all.

    PS – Cathleen, you’ll need to get in line…

    • / Reply

      Dear Annie B.,
      Happy to hear from you again! Don’t be a stranger — we like getting posts from you.
      Hope you are doing well, and good luck in the car decision.
      Lots of Hugs

  2. / Reply

    Breeders’ Cup live stream – Watch the action live streaming online from Santa Anita
    by Nick Wilby Posted 9 October 2013
    Watch the 2013 Breeders Cup live streaming online on November 1st and 2nd
    live from Santa Anita in Los Angeles.
    Watch all the races from the Breeders’ Cup live for free at Ladbrokes – use the promotion code MAXIMUMBONUS when you sign up.
    http://www.breeders-cup-live.com/category/Breeders-Cup-Live-Streams/Breeders-Cup-live-streaming-201310090002/

  4. / Reply

    Hi Terry Crow —
    Thanks! Can’t tell you how many times you’ve made me laugh. Your stories remind me of my dad who was greatly loved for his wonderful sense of humor, stories and terrible puns. It’s a rare talent you share!
    Don’t know why I’ve been sitting back lately because I do visit every day. Maybe it’s because I’ve been a bit overwhelmed with a full time job after being on the sidelines for more than 2 years. I’m one of the world’s luckiest and most blessed survivors of ovarian cancer. (I have rarely spoken those words, much less written them down. I guess it’s time.)
    Anyway, the work world has certainly changed a lot in 2 years – mostly new technology and the way it’s changed everything we do.
    Planet Zenyatta is a wonderful place to share love of all things equine, the Queen in particular, and just leave the rest behind…
    Am planning a major escape on BC weekend. 2 days of horses and all the interesting people who surround them. And now Z’s party. Can’t wait!

    A

    • / Reply

      Annie B-To be compared to one’s dad is high praise, indeed. You have a remarkable story to tell that all of us want to hear and share with you. I’ve said this before, but it certainly applies in your case. As Wilbur said in Charlotte’s Web, please stay. This is a nice place.

    • / Reply

      God bless you Ann. It’s good to see you posting here and hope you do so more often.
      So happy for your good health now being a cancer survivor.
      Have yourself a great time at the BC and escape to the land of the horse and the excitement of the races!! Blessings and hugs,
      Maryp

  6. / Reply

    Dear Max Have you heard about Denman’s life threatening infection and his long stay at the equine clinic in Newmarket. Seems it was in the bone and spread to the blood, he’s back at Charlotte’s now getting fit and Paul Barber is praying he makes a complete recovery. Someone even suggested he be put down because it was a waste of money for a retired horse sick sick sick!!!! hugs Sheena

  7. / Reply

    PODCAST WITH GARY STEVENS AND MIKE SMITH: Hear great interviews with Mike Smith and Gary Stevens on the Night School program with Jeremy Plonk, aired yesterday. http://www.thoroughbredracingradionetwork.com/index.php?option=com_events&task=view_detail&agid=1607&year=2013&month=10&day=22&Itemid=35

    Scroll down to the last podcast. First interview is with Gary Stevens, then the two of them, Gary and Mike Smith together, then separate interview with Smith. These two guys are such fun to watch and listen to…class all the way. They are good friends, too, which makes it interesting to see how the dynamic of their relationship plays out. They each are the other’s biggest fan. One thing they each do that younger guys could take note of: both are the first to admit if they’ve had a bad ride….they are never defensive in those rare situations when that might happen. Mike points out that in riding, you lose more than you win, and the toughest challenge is to get past the losses. It’s just a fact it happens. Mike quotes Bum Phillips’ famous line: “You’re never a loser unless you start blaming the other guy!”

    • / Reply

      Dear Ann Maree,
      Thank you for this post! These guys are two of my very favorite jockeys.
      Love the quote, too! What a great philosophy: “You’re never a loser unless you start blaming the other guy.” That is SO true, and most of our “illustrious” politicians would do well to take this to heart!!
      Thanks again and Hugs

  8. / Reply

    Coolmore Update ‎Wednesday, ‎October ‎23, ‎2013
    St Nicholas Abbey has suffered a setback over the last 24 hours having developed mild laminitic changes in the left fore. This is disappointing as he is now weight bearing and walking well on the operated (fractured) leg which has healed amazingly well to date. Although laminitis could be a life threatening complication we are hoping the condition will stabilize. Obviously the next weeks are critical in his recovery but St Nicholas Abbey remains comfortable with a good appetite & incredible attitude.

    • / Reply

      Thanks, Bluegrass Girl!
      This is very upsetting, but St. Nicholas Abbey has been such a fighter and has done so well, that I certainly hope for the best outcome with yet another obstacle. Power up, St. Nick! We are all pulling for you and sending our best thoughts and prayers for healing!
      Kisses on your beautiful soft nose! Hugs

    • / Reply

      PUN, come on Nick you made it thru this far like a champ, power thru it. Sending prayers for you beautiful boy.

  9. / Reply

    Hall of Famer Borel has spill at Keeneland
    A P Sports ‎10/‎23/‎13
    LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Keeneland says that Hall of Fame jockey Calvin Borel sustained a sports concussion after being thrown from his mount Wednesday.
    Borel was taken to the University of Kentucky Medical Center for evaluation after the fall from Sonic Dancer shortly after the start of the sixth race. Keeneland medical director Barry Schumer said in a statement that the 46-year-old Borel was ”stable, somewhat alert” and suffering concussion-like effects.
    Schumer said the jockey also complained of left-leg pain but was able to move it.

  10. / Reply

    Dear Max Glad you got to see Bruce, he’s a beautiful little boy. Oh ,yes we definitely have Dave, we cant have our Royals acting too ordinary. We haven’t heard much about Denman,funny how they managed to keep it under wraps , maybe Paul Barber wanted to wait until he had recovered PUD hugs Sheena

    • / Reply

      Sheena. You’re right because the Tank has a high profile. 5 months is a long stay in hospital, although it might have been like a place where Paynter rehabbed. Fair Hill is a great place for horses. You probably have something similar in the UK. That Irish hospital where Nick is staying looks state of the art.
      I’ll let you explain who Dave is. Maybe you should mention Ed too?

  12. / Reply

    Saw news with pictures of Prince George’s christening.
    Adorable baby, good looking parents. A happy day for the young royals.

    Now, visiting with Zenyatta and her two equine Princes.
    Great looking mother and handsome sires.
    Cannot wait until time to see her War Front 2014 model

  14. / Reply

    Champion mare Black Caviar to be a mum
    Posted by:AAP Filled in: Australian Horse Racing | 24/10/2013 at 8:00pm
    Retired champion mare Black Caviar is expecting her first foal.
    Rated one of the best racehorses in the world before her retirement, Black Caviar is in foal to the champion sire Exceed And Excel.
    News of the pregnancy has been confirmed by Racing Victoria.
    Read more: http://www.justhorseracing.com.au/news/australian-racing/champion-mare-black-caviar-to-be-a-mum/231616#ixzz2idH1qhl9

  15. / Reply

    October 24 Cherokee Devotional

    Let me be your friend. I must have your permission to be a true friend, just as you must have my permission. But what does that mean? I means that we respect each other’s privacy and honor each other’s trust. Being a friend does not necessarily give permission to ask any and all questions. Curb the desire to know until your friend gives you permission to ask those super-personal questions. Your friendship may need to grow closer and with a deeper sense of trust before your friend will open all aspects of his or her life to you.
    What does it take to be a true friend? A true friend knows how to touch without violating, to love without smothering, to care without constant pursuit, to give freely without wanting an immediate return. A true friend also cares enough to defend a friend against unfair comments, to stand alongside a friend during a time of crisis. Friends are not jealous or envious, nor are they judgmental. For a friend, no thank are needed-just love.

    A child is the greatest gift from Wankan Tanka.
    -High Eagle

  16. / Reply

    Good morning, Dumplings! Here is another wonderful story of rescue by a brave pit bull.
    http://www.mnn.com/family/pets/stories/pit-bull-saves-cat-from-hungry-coyotes?utm_source=Freekibble&utm_medium=Quiz&utm_campaign=Oct242013
    It’s about time they are getting the good press that most of them deserve.

    @All Canadian/UK Dumplings: Prince George is adorable! But I have a question: was William not christened? They mentioned that the last one was Prince Charles in 1948.

    @Kathy–thanks.

    @All Dumplings attending the BC: Be sure to wear your Dumpling name tags. If you don’t have one, it’s too late for diastu in tempe to make them, but be sure to introduce yourselves to those you see wearing them. The rest of us will join you in spirit. Hugs to all.

  17. / Reply

    Dear Barbara Oh gosh all future kings have to be christened and confirmed. William was christened on our beloved Queen Mothers 82nd birthday august 4th 1982.much has been said about Will and Kate not attending church regularly. Hugs Sheena
    Dear BGG congratulations to black caviar. Am sure she’ll make an excellent mum.Her statue is beautiful. Hugs Sheena

    • / Reply

      Hi Sheena,

      Prince George is so handsome. Such beautiful eyes! And the christening gown was so ornate and gorgeous. Too bad his mum and dad don’t attend church regularly. I wouldn’t want to go through a single day without power from the Almighty.

      Happy Friday Eve!

      Hugs,
      Kathy

      • / Reply

        In the UK, The Queen is head of the Church of England and Defender of the Faith. This dates back to Henry VIII, and the break with Rome. As Sheena said, it would be unthinkable not to christen a future monarch.

  18. / Reply

    Stanwyck, owned and trained by Zenyatta’s team is racing Saturday at Belmont in the Turnback The Alarm stakes. Good luck and safe trip to this lovely girl.

    Of course, you know who, has a mount in this race!

  19. / Reply

    She’s Not Here (Street Cry x Where’s Bailey(1/2 to Zenyatta)) makes her first start in the 4th at Keeneland on Friday. 12-1 on the morning line.

  20. / Reply

    A lady goes into a doctor’s office complaining about pain. After she gets into the examining room, the physician asks her what the specific problem was. “It’s my knees, doctor. Every time I touch them I am in terrible pain.” “Can you give ma an example?” said the doctor. The woman touches her left knee on the outside of it and yells “OW!” She then touches her right knee on the outside of it and again yells “OW!” The doctor then examines both of her knees. “What is your diagnosis, doctor?” asks the woman. The doctor replied “You have a broken finger.”

  21. / Reply

    With all of the hoopla over the upcoming Breeders’ Cup, a major event for us here in the U.S., there is another world-class event coming up on Saturday. It is the COX PLATE, post time scheduled for 2:40 a.m. ET. With the defection/retirement of Atlantic Jewel, it leaves It’s A Dundeel to prove he is worthy of being called the best in Australia. COX PLATE, GRADE 1, MOONEE VALLEY, AUSTRALIA. What is the Cox Plate? Where does it stand among the greatest contests, not only in Australia, but the world?

    The Tatts Cox Plate is considered the premier weight-for-age championship in Australia, and second only to the Melbourne Cup in prestige Down Under. Held every year at Moonee Valley Racecourse in Melbourne, it is one of the highlights of the Spring Racing Carnival. The date for the 2013 Cox Plate is Saturday 26 October, 2013. In the U.S., post time will be 2:40 a.m. ET.

    This is the card for the race. Note that the card is from Racing Post and the time posted is for Great Britain. Great Britain is 5 hours ahead of the U.S. thus the 2:40 a.m. post time for U.S.: http://www.racingpost.com/horses2/cards/card.sd?race_id=589925&r_date=2013-10-26#raceTabs=sc_

    Here are some other links to get familiar with the field: http://www.theroar.com.au/2013/10/24/2013-cox-plate-is-its-a-dundeel-the-real-deal/

    http://www.horseracing.com.au/news/betting-favourite-for-the-2013-cox-plate-continues-to-firm/

    The Cox Plate is rated by many to be the truest test of horses’ abilities in Australia, and in 1999 it was included in the Emirates World Series Racing Championship, a global “grand prix” of horse racing. The series included the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot, the Japan Cup, the Dubai World Cup, the Arlington Million, the Hong Kong Cup, the Canadian International Stakes, the Grosser Preis von Baden, the Irish Champion Stakes, and Breeders’ Cup Turf and Breeders’ Cup Classic. It is run at a distance of a few feet past 1 1/4 miles, on Turf for horses three and up.

  22. / Reply

    Dear Max Have been having my usual stroll around the shops today and was reading about Denman ,seems the trouble started way back in april with an infected fetlock joint he had the infected part of the bone removed and they thought he was recovering when the infection went into his bloodstream ,seems it was touch and go for quite a while but Paul Barber has nothing but praise for the veterinary surgeon Ian Wright and the staff at the equine hospital.They are hoping to wean him off his medication soon, Paul prays he will make a full recovery. He’s back to his usual cheeky himself at Charlotte’s .bucking and kicking.Further to our conversation about Dave and Ed, you forgot who considers himself more important Nick!!! hugs Sheena

    • / Reply

      Sheena. Thanks for this information about Denman. This sounds very serious, but hopefully he is heading in the right direction. It does seem that he received world class medical care, as well he should. Keep us advised.
      Laughed at your comment about Nick, not the horse. We all love the horse Nick, son of Montjeu. The other Nick, the jury is still out on that one. Frankly, the fact that Dave and Nick are still together is beyond amazing.

  26. / Reply

    Oh Zenny–The TV said this morning that it was going to be cold in the Lexington area tonight—hope you’ll be able to be snug and cozy,you and the little one on board. I know lots of times you like to be out at night,but I hope tonight you’ll be curled up deep in straw—-wish I could curl up in a corner and keep you company!! I have always wanted to sleep in a stall with a horse!! Barnaby doesn’t have a fully enclosed stall,or I would have tried it with him long ago.

    Was SO sad to hear about Dullahan and the other precious ones we have recently lost—so tragic. I hope that St. nicholas Abbey will rally from his latest set-back. Power up St. Nick and channel Paynter!!

    A week from tonight,after work,I’ll drive the 150 miles to Boise and stay at my favorite hotel there,where I can leave my car while I’m gone,and Friday morn I’ll take off for the BC–hopefully,by the time I get to the BC,I’ll be able to see the last 2 or 3 races and find the rest of the Z-sters!! Then we can have fun all day on Saturday. Last year,I saw all of the Friday races and went to Z’s party–then watched Saturday’s races on TV at my daughter’s. This year,I’ll get to see all of Saturday’s! Am so excited to see everything and everyone!! Sunday afternoon,I’ll go to my daughter’s in Irvine and that night I’ll get to see her sing in a big concert at Segerstrom Hall with the Pacific Symphony. The Pacific Chorale,with whom she sings,is performing the Verdi Requiem,which should be wonderful. She has taken the whole next week off so that we can do all of my favorite CA things–can’t wait!!

    Will miss my Barnaby while I’m gone,as well as my kitties,but their Auntie Sue will be looking after them. Barnaby and Traveller had company come and visit them last Saturday,some friends who had only seen them in pictures. They were in fine fettle and showed off in fine style. I think another friend of mine is coming this Saturday. She is over 80 and hooked up to oxygen,so she will be driven out to East Fork and I will take Barnaby out of the pasture and up to her car so that she can see him and pet him out of the window–and kiss his nose,as she has been longing to do!! She has pictures of him in her home and has been wanting to meet him for months so I am really hoping that she will be able to come on Saturday!

    After a spate of cool weather a few weeks ago,we have had our much loved “indian summer’ for the past couple of weeks. Have been able to have lunch outdoors in the sunshine at my favorite restaurant,across the street from our store–it is called the Bigwood Bakery Cafe and has WONDERFUL food and is in a cute remodeled cottage,which they have surrounded with a white picket fence and lovely flower beds!

    When the first cold weather came,Barnaby started putting on his winter coat in earnest!! I think he still thinks he needs to prepare for the harsh and windy Nevada winters he used to endure. As it gets colder here,he puts on more and more-quite a lot more than Traveller does. I swear that as the winter goes on,you can see the difference each day!! When I put my fingers deep in it,next to his skin,he is always warm,even when there is ice in the tips of his coat!! They have about one more month in East Fork,then will move down to River Sage,where they stayed safe from all the fires.For those coming to the BC,I’ll have some new photos with me!!

    Have loved all the recent photos–thanks SO much,Team Z,for each and every one!!! Were so blessed to be able to follow Z and the boys through all these changes!!

    Sweet dreams tonight to all!!

    • / Reply

      Oh, Sue–your trip sounds heavenly. Say hello to everyone from me. I will miss you all.
      Those winter coats are something. Last time I checked the weather website, it was already down to 37 in Lexington. (I keep that in my “locations”). Not much going on down here in the winter coat dept., as it has been around 80 lately!
      Have a safe trip.

      • / Reply

        Barbara, I am sorry you will not be here this year. I’m just glad I got to meet you last year. Maybe you can come another time.

    • / Reply

      As always, Hovis brightens up my day. Thanks again for posting, Max.

      Also, on Saturday the lovely Lea is running at Keeneland. He has some stiff competition as Wilcox Inn is in the same race. Safe trip to all.

      • / Reply

        shirlee. Noticed that Uncle Johnny is at Woodbine on Sunday. He’s in the Pattison International riding for trainer Roger Attfield. Mike Smith will also ride in that race. Go Mike!

    • / Reply

      Poor Hovis – nothing is easy . . . . And to think that he’s actually going to participate in a stressage event. Can’t wait to hear that one. Thanks as always to Sheena via Max for our Friday chuckle (trust me, here on the north coast, we could all USE a chuckle today after getting slammed with an early season snow storm while 90% of the leaves were still on the trees – the place is a MESS!!).

    • / Reply

      I love you, Hovis.
      Run, Lea, Run. Show them the Flying Chestnut .
      Sandy, sorry about yourbad weather. There was snow west of us..uhhhh!
      Safe rides and trips for all this weekend. Thanks, Max for posting the update, made my day!

  28. / Reply

    Zenny…we revisited the video of your 2009 BC win and your great race of 2010 which we were honored to see in person at Churchill. Once again you brought tears, cheers and wonderment. Wonderment at how you always brought your best to a race and wonderment how you had (and still have) all of us wrapped around your “hooves” by the sheer magic of your being. You are something else, dear Queen. Do you understand how special you remain to so many? You FB “likes” grow continuously and are now over 146,000. Zenny, you remain the epitome of Girl Power!

  29. / Reply

    October 25 Cherokee Devotional

    The winner carries with him the quiet knowledge that though he has heard every argument, faced every opponent, felt every criticism, there is no turning back and no accepting defeat. Telling a winner that something is impossible is like waving a red flag-a ga da ti. He insists on going ahead, learning all he can about the challenges he faces and then persisting until there is nothing left to do but win. Every winner knows in his heart that he is not alone. His spirit and his dream merge so that even a loss will only be a delay. What we put into an idea, what we dream it can be, what we believe in and work toward is likely to make it take shape.

    The Indian lived, lived to his last breath.
    -Chief Luther Standing Bear, Lakota

  30. / Reply

    Dear Hovis,

    How you make us LAUGH. Life’s tough when you’re so misunderstood, poor baby.

    Thank you Max, as always.

    Best of luck to Stanwyck.

    Hi Sheena!

    Happy weekend everyone.

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