Zenyatta

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Zenyatta News, Special Events

2016 Zenyatta Celebration: Fans Meet Zenyatta

Celebration winners visit Zenyatta.
Celebration winners visit Zenyatta.

Happy February!

Last fall we held our fourth annual Zenyatta Celebration, raising $20,000 for Thoroughbred Rehab Center Inc. Five participants were chosen in a random drawing to win the grand prize, An Invitation to Meet Zenyatta. Each winner was invited to travel with a guest to Lane’s End Farm to meet Zenyatta and receive a tour of the farm. These photos document their visits. Photography by Alys Emson.

View the complete set of photos from these visits in our 2016 Zenyatta Celebration Photo Gallery.

Some of you have noticed that we’ve been posting less frequently, but our winter break is no cause for concern. Zenyatta is happy and healthy, and we got to see her at Lane’s End in late January. We’ll be posting images from our visit soon.

Enjoy!
Team Z

Reader Interactions

640 Comments

  1. / Reply

    Brooklyn Bobby was a good 2nd today at Gulfstream.He is by Frankel out of Balance half sister to our Zenyatta,
    RIP Sulamani who has died after a short illness aged 18yrs.He was the sire of 2016 GN winner Rule the World.

  2. / Reply

    Dear Mama Z, COZ, ZI and DC:

    Goodnight and Happy Dreams. Stay comfy and cozy. Love and Hugs, JB

    Z Princess, Dubai, Baby Z, will always love you.

  3. / Reply

    Dear Judy.All Hovey’s fans are wishing him well.I pray it is nothing serious,A joy to see Cue Card jumping for fun today and in beautiful sunshine too.I had no idea Braulio was riding Foolish Pleasure when Ruffian was so badly injured.A very sad race.Goodnight God bless you LM PC HT Cap Frank Bentley and all the sweeties.Love and hugs SheenaX

    • / Reply

      Sheena and Judy; I have heard about Hovis and my love and prayers are with our buddy Hovis.
      love n hugs, Sally B

    • / Reply

      Dear Sheena:

      I hope Hovis’ problem is resolved and he feels better. Prayers for him.

      Glad Brooklyn Bobby did well. Love his name. Love and Hugs, JB

  4. / Reply

    Hi all; Fancy from our CV horse sanctuary is not doing so well. I know she is 35 yrs old. but it just came on so suddenly. The vet did come thought at first colic but there is not all the symptoms and noticed something in her respiratory so did inject her with antiobiotics.
    She felt that secondary infections can occur when a horse has Cushings disease which we have treated Fancy for at least a couple of years now. Right now she is not her hungry self and she may be letting us know that she is just ready. Who knows? I will have chores tomorrow although I did run out to see her and visit with her today. It is so sad to think we may lose Fancy. Please say a prayer for Fancy; may God bless her.
    Thank you, Sally B

  5. / Reply

    Goodnight Zenyatta, I will always love YOU so please rest up in that soft clean hay.
    love you with kisses and to all your sons,
    Z princess and dear Sir,
    Auntie Sally B

  6. / Reply

    February 19 Cherokee Devotional

    We all discover at some time or other that it is painful to love. Caring about something, about someone, about some place is a great joy. It does make us vulnerable, easy to get to, easy to touch, and hard-pressed to hide our emotions. Some bit of us wants desperately to hide our emotions. Some bit of us wants desperately to hide what we feel for fear that it will be taken the wrong way. But even more, we are afraid of revealing more than we are willing to share. A reserve of our own thoughts and feelings keeps us from depleting all that we are, keeps us from giving away that part of us which generates life. It keeps us able to love and care deeply. Despite all the pain that goes with caring, we would not have it any other way.

    The earth has received the embrace of the sun and we shall see the results of that love.
    Sitting Bull

  7. / Reply

    Lovely video posted of Hovis today.He was giving all his fans a kiss so hopefully his injury isn’t too serious.As Kathy said to love is painful.I know this from my own furbabies and horses I have loved and lost but the heartache is always worth it for the joy they bring while they are with us.PUHovey and FancyX

    • / Reply

      Dear Sheena,
      So true. What we would do without all of the wonderful memories we have of all of our ‘critter’ family. They still bring us joy even after they’re gone. It’s bittersweet – missing them, but then we have all of those cherished moments stored in our hearts always. Hope you and everyone here in ‘Zenyatta Land’ have a beautiful Sunday. with love, Elizabeth

      • / Reply

        Dear Elizabeth,

        Yes, our furbabies on the other side of Rainbow Bridge are waiting for us and they absolutely live on in our hearts!

        Hugs, Kathy XOXO

  8. / Reply

    The mighty Winx goes for her 15th consecutive win in the Chipping Norton next Saturday.She came out of her last race”very well”and even put on 2 kilos.She will again face her old rival Hartnell Girl power!

  9. / Reply

    The death has been announced of dual classic winner and 1999 horse of the year Charismatic.Aged 20 he was found in his stable early this morning and a full necropsy is pending Everyone at Old Friends are inconsolable according to Michael Blowen.He was fine yesterday evening and had only returned from Japan in December.It was jockey Chris Antley who saved the horse’s life in the Belmont with his quick actions .Much sympathy to all at Old Friends.Run free with all the other champions who will be waiting for youX

  11. / Reply

    Dear Judy.Another sad loss but you can draw comfort from the fact Charismatic had come home.Karen posted a video of Hovis .He looks quite perky.Hoping for good news this week.Moosie continues to do well in dressage coming 2nd this week and a gorgeous photo of him with a little girl.Such a gentle soul.Happy holiday tomorrow.Goodnight God bless you LM PC HT Cap Hercules Frank Bentley and all the sweeties.Love and hugs SheenaX

    • / Reply

      Dear Sheena:

      Oh, I’m so grateful that Charismatic came home. I wish he had more time at Old Friends to be pampered and loved. I like thinking that he an Christ A. are together again.

      Encouraging news on Hovis. Power Up Big Boy. God Bless Moosie. Goodnight. Love and Hugs, JB, LM, PC, HT, Cap, Herc, Frank, Bentley and all the Sweeties

        • Dear Z Fans:

          This is the news release from Old Friends website on the passing of Charismatic. Love and Hugs, JB

          http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs184/1102520673781/archive/1127246271293.html

          Also, this was posted on the site a little while ago:

          All I can tell you is that it was, by all appearances, a peaceful end. There were no signs of struggle, no evidence of distress. Whatever took the great red stallion in the hours between dark and dawn came quickly and stole him away. In life, his brightest moments blazed across the firmament like some comet, burning intensely before returning to earth like a large wounded bird. In his star crossed life, however, the bird he resembled most was the mythical phoenix – and like that legendary creature, Charismatic rose from his storied break down in the Belmont, and crossed the ocean to stand in Japan for many years. In the end, the oft expressed wish that he come home was fulfilled late last year. It was a cold, clear evening when the van pulled up the driveway. As night fell on the bluegrass, a tall, impressive stallion walked off the ramp and into our Old Friends family. He was led to the center of the barn where he stopped and faced his public. As eyes strained in the darkness and voices raised in welcome, he let out a great neigh in return. It was deep and clear and impressive. His voice echoed over the hills. The phoenix had landed, home at last.

          This morning, the great soul lay silent. His resting place undisturbed. He was so still and peaceful James commented that his tail still looked freshly combed out. Sadly, James and Tammy made the long walk to the door to tell Michael he was gone. Ten years worth of effort to bring Charismatic home went by quickly, but in the end, we were granted only months with him. During that time, he was adored and well cared for. He was reunited with old friends and greeted with smiles and carrots. He completed quarantine and was starting to enjoy turn out in the paddock that had been Ogygian’s and Precisionist’s before him. He was curious and content. He grazed snugly in his Rambo coat, as he had yet to grow winter wool. He rolled in the mud and happily trotted along the fence line. He enjoyed excellent care from our primary veterinarian, Dr. Brian Waldridge, who was more than a little enamored with him. We were just getting to know him, myself included. Two years after losing Creator, I found myself growing fond of the sweet little gray gelding, Skip’s World. When I stepped in the barn to give Skippy a carrot, I had one for Charismatic too. He never failed to look at me with not a little side eye, as if to say, hey, you’re feeding him first?! I won the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, you know. And I’d step over and say, no one would ever forget that, big guy. You’re the best.

          And he was.

          This is a post no one wants to read and I certainly never wanted to write. But the truth is, and I will attribute this to our farm manager, Tim Wilson…every night, the universe holds a lottery. It’s just a question of who’s name is called. On February 19, the celestial herd called Charismatic home. In time, there will be an official cause of death and further information will be shared, because we all want to make clinical sense of a loss we can’t fathom emotionally. I get that, folks, I really do. But for now, we are a house in mourning. For those who met and/or admired him, we share your grief. Until I see you again, Charismatic, I know you’ll be keeping good company……Your friend, Vivien

        • Dear Judy,
          So very sorry about Charismatic going on. I’m so thankful he got to come back ‘home’ finally, and was able to be happy at Old Friends in his last days. All we know to do is to trust God through our tears, and count on seeing all of our beloved horses again down the road.
          with love, Elizabeth

        • Dear Judy.This is such a beautiful tribute to Charismatic.Thankfully he had a peaceful end and a few months home in the US.We just never know when our number is up.We are all in God’s hands.RIP Charismatic,Hugs

        • Dear Judy B.,

          Thank you so much for this post. This is such a moving tribute to Charismatic. The writer obviously had deep affection and admiration for this gorgeous chestnut Champion — so beautifully written. Tears are falling in sincere sympathy for all at Old Friends whose hearts are broken. :-(
          Thank you, Vivien, for writing this loving memorial. We mourn with you.

          Hugs and Love

        • Dear Elizabeth, Sheena and Marshall:

          Yes, he was well loved. Rest In Peace Beautiful Chestnut Boy. Love and Hugs, JB

  12. / Reply

    Dear Beautiful Mama Z, COZ, ZI and DC:

    Hope you are comfy and cozy. Happy Dreams all. Love You. Hugs, JB

    Z Princess, Dubai, Baby Z, will always love you.

  13. / Reply

    February 20 Cherokee Devotional

    We are tempted at every turn to give in to things that are not good for us. Numerous tangible things and acts run through our minds to delight and lure us away from our good intentions, but none as powerful as that first thought, that subtle invitation to give in. It is always the first step, the first word, the first taste that leads us like the pipes of Pan. We innocently muse that we have been really good lately, keeping our schedules, doing what we think is important. Isn’t it time we rewarded ourselves? Why not indulge a little-just this once? These are the first of a series of questions. Later comes the sad question-what did I do to deserve this? This is the place to stop saying how stupid we are, get back in the boat, and start paddling as fast as we can-even if it is upstream!

    Youth is impulsive. When our young me grow angry at some real or imaginary wrong…it denotes their hearts are black…
    Seattle

  14. / Reply

    Dear Kathy.Did’nt someone say “youth is wasted on the young”?Another mild day here but the cold returns on Friday.No news from Hovis yet.Poor Mr Fibbs needs to reolace his secret serbice agents pronto!I am still turtling today but you have the day off!
    It was sad to hear Charismatic didn’t get to enjoy a longer retirement but my grandmother had a similar death,She went to sleep on Christmas night 1962 and never woke up in the morning.He had a very peaceful end.I loved the Zoeism today.IJack O is still enjoying the snow in Boston.I heard there was more rain in northern CA last night but some high temps in the south of the US.
    Our government are going to have problems getting the brexit bill through the House of Lords without amendments.They do not have a majority.The man in the street will not put with any more delays especially from their Lordships!
    Evie had guest speaker Ossie on her podcast Saturday she’s hoping Larry will join her this week.Michael ended his tour of the US at Gracelands and saw Elvis’ grave.Sir Tom and Priscilla are getting up close and personal these days.
    Michael O’Leary has taken his horses out of the GN a row with handicapper Phil Smith A lot of posters think AP isn’t really happy in his retirement and wonder how Channelle can put up with him.He is very much like me a typically stubborn Taurean.
    I am really disappointed with Brutus’ fans only 3 turned up for the meeting on Thursday,Goes to show how soon we are forgotten.Viktor’s videos were criticised for having too much Bling in them.What are these stupid guys watching???So Viktor put more bling in!!It was just because he showed the hotel room he stayed at in Berlin.He had to stay somewhere he travels throughout Europe with rescued animals,Hope you have a lovely day off.Love and hugs to you,Kisses for Angel Holly,Nikko and Sugar.SheenaXOXO.Horrible drama on the uber left wing BBC last night about the Germans winning the war.As if???I switched off in disgust.

  15. / Reply

    Dear Sheena,

    Yes, Youth absolutely is wasted on the youg. Enjoy the warmth while you may. I hope and pray Hovis will improve. His Mum must be a basket case. Poor Fibbs is experiencing firsthand how hard it is to be president. I’m thrilled to have a Monday where I don’t have to turtle. Poor Charismatic. Our days are numbered…Yes, another gem from Zoe. I have really enjoyed seeing Jack O in the snow. Pure joy! Government is in a mess. Ah, Graceland. I would like to visit there myself one day. I hear you about Taureans and stubbornness. I am a Taurus, too! 3 is not a good showing at all for Brutus’ fans. Shame on them. Poor Viktor. There’s always going to be someone who objects to something you have done. Nut cases, all of them. Yes, today will be lovely. You enjoy your day, too. Love and hugs from me, kisses form Angel Holly, Nikko and Sugar. Kathy XOXO

    • / Reply

      Dear BGG,

      Thank you for posting this link and for the heads-up on Wise Dan’s birthday.
      HAPPY BIRTHDAY to our beloved Wise Dan! Enjoy your 10th birthday, WD; have some treats, and maybe a special cake? We really do miss our “most interesting horse in the world”, Danny! You are still one stunningly handsome chestnut, dear boy. ?

      Hugs and Love

    • / Reply

      Dear BGG:

      Thank you for sharing this wonderful photo of Danny. He looks great and happy. Love and Hugs, JB

  20. / Reply

    Jay Privman ‏@DRFPrivman ‎Monday, ‎20 ‎February, ‎2017
    Gormley went half-mile in :47.80 today at @santaanita.
    Will make next start in San Felipe 3-11 (most likely) or Rebel 3-18 #derbywatch

  21. / Reply

    Wishing the distinguished actor Sydney Poitier a very happy 90th birthday today.Loved him in “Guess who’s coming to dinner”and many others.A gentleman and a time when Hollywood produced REAL stars.Have a wonderful day SirX

  22. / Reply

    Dear Judy:Lots of foals arriving.A Frankel filly at Normandie Stud out of Gale Force born on Valentine’s day.Another stallion died on Feb 16th Gold Allure by Sunday Silence.He succumbed to heart disease aged 18yrs.No news on Hovis.Hope you had had a lovely day.Goodnight God bless you LM PC HT Cap Hercules Frank Bentley and all the sweeties.Love and hugs SheenaX

    • / Reply

      Dear Sheena:

      Congrats to Frankel and Gale Force on the new filly. RIP Gold Allure. I hope Hovis is doing better. Power Up Hovie! Goodnight. Love and Hugs, JB, LM, PC, HT, Cap, Herc, Frank, Bentley and all the Sweeties

  23. / Reply

    Dear Mama Z, COZ, ZI and DC:

    Goodnight and Happy Dreams. Stay cozy in your stalls. Love and Hugs, JB

    Z Princess, Dubai, Baby Z, will always love you.

    • / Reply

      Dear Judy B.,

      Thanks for the link. Congratulations to Gun Runner on his win yesterday in the Razor Back at Oak Lawn!! Well done, handsome boy. Congrats to Florent Geroux, Steve Asmussen and all connections, too.

      Yay, Peggy — that’s your boy!

      Hugs and Love

    • / Reply

      Dear Kathy,

      Thanks for these entries. I thought maybe I had misspelled David’s last name, and I had!

      Thank you.
      Hugs and love

      • / Reply

        Kathy,

        I will be watching for David on Easter and Thanksgiving dog shows.
        I did see him this past Thanksgiving with John O’Hurley — I may have misspelled John’s name, too. :-)

        Hugs and Love

  28. / Reply

    So sad to hear about Charismatic. My condolences to Old friends & all of his fans. I am relieved that he arrived home before he left us & that he will be buried here.

    I remember watching in horror as Chris Antley jumped off of Charismatic & held up his injured leg. I am sure that Chris was at the head of the line on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge to meet his old friend. Now they will be united forever.

  29. / Reply

    Vivien you wrote such a loving note about Charasmatic. It was filled with admiration and lots of love. You were lucky to have spent time with him.I was scheduled to meet him with the other members of his Inner Circle group. Now I will spend that day thinking about him with his friends that went before him. Thank you again. God bbless.xxxx.

  30. / Reply

    Vivien you wrote such a loving note about Charasmatic. It was filled with admiration and lots of love. You were lucky to have spent time with him.I was scheduled to meet him with the other members of his Inner Circle group. Now I will spend that day thinking about him with his friends that went before him. Thank you again. God bless.xxxx.

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