Zenyatta

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Zenyatta News

Announcing The 2012 Breeders’ Cup Zenyatta Celebration

Second annual Zenyatta Celebration to welcome fans at the 2012 Breeders’ Cup World Championships.

Special Zenyatta seating section also available during Championships

Tickets on sale at Zenyatta Shop

ARCADIA, Calif. (Aug. 1, 2012) – Breeders’ Cup Ltd., along with Zenyatta owners Jerry and Ann Moss, announced today plans for the second annual Breeders’ Cup Zenyatta After-Party Celebration, to be held Championship Friday, Nov. 2, at Santa Anita Park’s Frontrunner restaurant. This year’s official event will be an exclusive evening full of Zenyatta fun following Friday’s race card and will benefit several equine and racing-related charities, including the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund and The Communication Alliance to Network Thoroughbred Ex-Racehorses (CANTER).

The Zenyatta After-Party Celebration will be from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., providing racegoers a relaxing environment to toast the day’s winners, celebrate the past and present of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, while enjoying a twilight, panoramic view of the historic racecourse from Frontrunner. Amenities include a California buffet and cash bar featuring cocktails, race replays from Friday’s Breeders’ Cup program, entertainment, and a chance to meet Zenyatta’s connections and other racing celebrities.

Scheduled appearance and autograph signing at the event will be with trainer John Shirreffs, Dottie Shirreffs, racing manager for the Moss Racing Stable and the voice of the Zenyatta Diary, and jockey Mike Smith. Smith will bring along some of his fellow jockeys and other racing celebrities to mingle with partygoers. The After-Party Celebration will also feature the auction of Zenyatta memorabilia, artwork and an all-expense-paid trip to see Zenyatta and her growing colt at Lane’s End Farm in Versailles, Ky.

After-Party Celebration tickets are $50 for admission only, or $95 for admission combined with the buffet. Tickets are available for sale today on a first-come basis at the Zenyatta Shop.

As an added benefit for “The Queen’s” most loyal fans, Premier Grandstand seating in the designated Zenyatta Section during the Breeders’ Cup World Championships is now available online at http://www.breederscup.com/tickets/grandstand-reserved or by calling 877-TIX4CUP (877-849-4287). Tickets are $150 for Friday and $200 for Saturday. Included with the special section tickets is a complimentary Autumn season Clubhouse pass to Santa Anita Park, as well as a unique Zenyatta souvenir.

“We are thrilled that the Zenyatta Celebration will once again be a highlight at the Breeders’ Cup World Championships,” said Jerry and Ann Moss. “Santa Anita Park holds many special memories for us as the site of some of Zenyatta’s finest racing accomplishments.”

“Santa Anita Park has rolled out the red carpet for international race-goers and especially Zenyatta fans as they prepare for another Breeders’ Cup World Championship,” said Robert Elliston, Breeders’ Cup Chief Operating Officer. “The Zenyatta After-Party Celebration will be a fabulous way to honor one of Breeders’ Cup’s most popular stars and also raise funds for industry-related causes.”

Throughout her extraordinary racing career, Zenyatta thrilled racing fans with jaw-dropping victories and heart-pounding finishes. However, it was her memorable Breeders’ Cup performances, including her victories in the 2008 Ladies’ Classic, the 2009 Classic and her incredible finish at Churchill Downs in the 2010 Classic, that sealed her stardom and ignited a fan frenzy that has transcended the sport and endeared this stunning mare to millions.

About Breeders’ Cup
The Breeders’ Cup administers the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, Thoroughbred racing’s year-end Championships.  The Breeders’ Cup also administers the Breeders’ Cup Challenge qualifying series, which provides automatic starting positions into the Championships races. The 2012 Breeders’ Cup World Championships, consisting of 15 races and purses totaling more than $25 million will be held Nov. 2-3 at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, Calif., and will be televised live by the NBC Sports Network. Breeders’ Cup press releases appear on the Breeders’ Cup Web site, www.breederscup.com. You can also follow the Breeders’ Cup on social media platforms, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Reader Interactions

985 Comments

  1. / Reply

    Hansen Update Aug. 6
    Tim Wilkin tweeted: Dr. Kendall Hansen, owner of champ Hansen, is Travers bound. Doc says trainer Mike Maker not happy with jock Mike Smith’s ride in WVa Derby
    TIm Wilkin also tweeted: Dr. Hansen says Mike Maker wants to make a jockey change for Travers. He says he would ride Mike Smith back, but says it’s up to Maker

    And, he tweeted: Dr. Hansen also says there will be no blue tail on Hansen for the Travers. He’ll be all white　
    Another tweet said: Dr. Hansen also said Hansen, who is back in Kentucky, will stay there and ship up to Saratoga a few days before the race

    Tim Wilkin is the lead horse racing writer at the Albany Times Union & also cover college basketball

  4. / Reply

    Hello GirlSaratoga:

    I’m sorry I was not able to give you the info last night on Thunder. Barbara sent me an email about your request. Started feeling sick from the heat as I did too much yesterday. So glad you found the website and was able to contact Carol. Carol is getting help for Thunder through our posting. Lets hope Thunder gets his surgery soon. His buddy, Oscar, with the eye ulcer is hanging in there. Carol hopes it will heal soon. Thanks and Regards, Marilu

    • / Reply

      Dear Marilu:

      Hope you feel better soon. Prayers for you, Carol, Thunder and Oscar. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      I sent Carol and email and I’m going to go visit Thunder and Oscar soon, maybe this weekend if I can get off work. I’m really looking forward to it. I hope you’re feeling better soon, Marilu. I know how this heat can get to you. Hugs, Debbie

      • / Reply

        Update on Thunder – http://www.fundforthunder.webs.com

        Hello Debbie:

        Happy you were able to contact Carol. I hope your plan pushes through to visit Thunder and Oscar.

        Let us hope Thunder will get enough help to have the surgery soon and Oscar’s eye ulcer clears up.

        Thanks to Trina N. for connecting you with Carol. Hugs, Marilu

        • Hi Marilu. It looks like I’ll be off work on Saturday, so I’m going to contact Carol and see if that’s good with her. Hugs, Debbie

  5. / Reply

    Great Britain Men’s Team Wins Gold in Show Jumping!
    Alex Brown‏ tweeted
    RT @BBCBreaking #London2012:
    @TeamGB win first Olympic gold in men’s team show jumping since 1952

    • / Reply

      Dear Keta:

      Thanks for the updates on the Jumping Competition finals. Congrats to the medal winners and good effort by the USA. Hugs, JB

        • Dear TC GP:

          Very wise words. Good Example – Z’s effort in the 2012 BCC. Hugs, JBHugs, JB

        • Dear TC GP:

          I’m losing it. Meant Z’s effort in the 2010 BCC. Hugs, JB

        • So very true, TC, GP.

          Just like Seattle Slew’s great loss, her loss demonstrated a heart, courage, determination and talent to try and win that race against
          all odds.

    • / Reply

      Keta. What is this reference to men? These show jumping teams at least the North American ones are made up of men and women. Beezie Madden for example is at the very top of international show jumping. That is why it is such a shock and a shame that she will not compete for an individual jumping medal.

      • / Reply

        Max,
        I posted exactly what was tweeted.
        Yes, I did a “say what?”
        Thought maybe I had missed something in this ever changing world.
        I’ve watched Beezie for some time & Katie et al.
        Even saw Margie Goldstein-Engle at the Garden when she was just starting out.
        She was just Margie Goldstein then & had a cheering Mom
        That’s my story
        Keta

        • Keta. I never at any time thought that it was you. I did notice that none of the medal winners had any women on their teams. However you have to wonder what gives when tweets like that go out. These women show jumpers deserve recognition.

        • Margie Engle is really something. She walks crooked now from so many falls and broken bones when she walks the course. She is so tiny and rides
          those big Grand Prix jumpers with gusto.

        • Sign,
          Margie was absolutely fearless even as a young rider.
          She is currently laid up & has had many injuries over the years.
          Have a special place in my heart for her
          Years ago, watched a young rider named Rodney Jenkins & Michael Matz & more recently McClain Ward.
          Part of the fun of living on the East Coast.
          Keta

        • What a wonderful story about Margie Engle.
          She worked very hard to achieve her dream. Love it!

        • Dear Keta,

          You are so very lucky to live on the East Coast.
          Love McClain Ward and his lovely talented retired mare Saphire.
          Sorry to hear Margie is injured again. I know when I was riding,
          falling, getting injured and getting back on was a must.

          I fractured the lower part of my left arm when a horse refused a jump,
          got an x-ray at work, went to ride the next night with a splint on, then
          found out it was fractured. Ortho surgeon told me not to EVER ride,
          that only made me ride more. I did not ride with the splint on he
          put the fear of god into to me about that.

          You are so lucky to know all of these wonderful and talented riders.

        • Oh yes, Keta.

          Remembered the name of her big white jumper, Indigo.

          Such a gorgeous and talented white knight.

          If only I had the courage to jump 5 feet. No such luck,
          had to settle for a course of 12 jumps at 3 or 3′ 3″ and that
          that was stressful.

          I so admire these talented riders, and the eventers are the epitome of braveness a talent with their horses so well trained.

  6. / Reply

    Kelly Wietsma‏ tweet:
    USA’s Fellers and Ward move on to indiviudal final on Wednesday.
    No medal for the team but nice effort!!!

  7. / Reply

    Team Jumping Medals
    HRTV‏ tweet
    Jumping Team Finals Equestrian Olympics
    Gold: Team Great Britain
    Silver: Team Netherlands
    Bronze: Team Saudi Arabia

    • / Reply

      GB may also win the Gold in Dressage.

      Charlotte D something from Carl Hester’s yard on Vallegro a very talented
      dressage horse.

  8. / Reply

    Sending birthday wishes to two of Zenyatta’s team. Her voice , wonderful Dottie, we miss you so much and her man Mike Smith both on Aug 10.
    Have a wonderful day both of you and many, many more.

    • / Reply

      Barbara
      You should bet on the Lottery today.
      Find an equestrian event is like finding the Lost Dutchman Mine.
      If you like Beach Volleyball, NBC has it covered.
      I’m on DirecTV and get the NBC Sports Channel in addition to NBC, CNBC, MSNBC &
      Bravo. Seeing a lot of volleyball, table tennis, water polo, etc.
      Keta

        • Sandy,
          We have been very happy with DirecTV
          Have not had any transmission problems–that was my big fear.
          I am especially thrilled with TVG which shows races not just in North America, but also international.
          Yes, you have to put up with all the betting/handicapping info.
          But, it is well worth it.
          Only glitch was when they were in a rate war with Viacom & some channels were not available for about a week. That has been settled so all is good.
          Keta

        • DISH network is really great, Sandy, if you have it in OHIO.

          HRTV is loud and clear everyday.

        • sign-I understand DISH network has a racing channel that shows all of the races from all of the tracks. Is this true?

      • / Reply

        Keta,

        Last night was TOO hilarious watching the humans compete in the 1500 meter
        race. It was like watching a TB race without a jockey. They were bumping each
        other, coming to the outside and making their sprint down toward “the wire”.

        It was really funny seeing humans race like that. There was one US guy who did not want to use much of his energy up so he made sure he came in 5th and would
        qualify and have enough left to run in the big one.

        • Sing:

          I watched that race too! You are right it was like watching the Kentucky Derby! Jockeying for position, couple runners fell during their heats it was a “HOT MESS”! And the one US guy that finished fifth was the smartest of them all just qualify!
          That’s what the Olympics is all about!
          GirlSaratoga

          P.S. I ‘m not blaming Mike for Hansen’s ride, maybe he didn’t like the distance, or the track, or his post position or maybe the traveling was too much? We will never know what he was thinking?

        • Oh yes, GS.

          I think trainer is blaming Mike, but I think they might be his issues as
          Mike has remained MUM about the whole thing.

          Glad to enjoyed the “humans racing as much as I did”.

  10. / Reply

    @GirlSaratoga-Connecticut is even better. We have no members from there and you would be the president of the state chapter, even though Judy Berube is president of New England. I don’t think she would mind. She would just be the president of the rest of New England. January 27 is trhe anniversary of the death of Thomas J. Crapper, purported inventor of the flush toilet. We celebrate that day with a mass flush. HIs death is celebrated because no one knows the date of his birth. The words goobye cruel world come to mind. Here are today’s redneck jokes. You might be a redneck if the spinning mobile above your baby’s crib doubles as a gun rack. You might be a redneck if you and your friends go to Wal-Mart to see who can register the highest score on the blood pressure machine. You might be a redneck if you write stories for a cockfighting newsletter. You might be a redneck if you ever bought a moon pie on Ebay. You might be a redneck if the welcome mats at your house are stolen mudflaps. You might be a redneck if your life flashes before your eyes and all you see is beer.

    • / Reply

      Dear TC GP:

      Welcome GirlSaratogo, President of the Connecticut Redneck Chapter.
      Very funny jokes today. Thank you. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Cleaning cabinets…under sink plastic piece held in place by…..ta da….duck tape…
      been here 6 yrs….never saw it before….guess I need to dig thru stuff more often…I wish I could kneel….would make it easier

      • / Reply

        Thanks, Darlene. You should look into joining the BC handicapping contest. There were a lot of zeroes the first week, so you are not too far behind.

      • / Reply

        Debbie-As a point of information, you earned 4.8 half moons for your entry in the Golden Outhouse competition. You are well on your way.

        • Did you get Texas vote for Debbie, 4.98 half moons and you averaged them??? Love the half moons, TOO CUTE

        • sign-Some of the chapter predsidents were not as generous as you. I would have given a 5, but I am not a chapter president.

      • / Reply

        Thanks, Terry. We need to get some more jokes. It’s no good to win if you don’t have any competition!

        • Actually, jokes can stand on their own without competition. The chapter presidents are rating the jokes on an individual basis.

      • / Reply

        I’ll hop on board w/ you Sign.
        Funny TC.
        Welcome mat is out for U GS!……..and I guess it should be a stolen mudflap! oh my.

        • Love it Ann, Stolen mud flaps !!!! and cheetah/skunk duct tape from
          staples. Would that not be something !!!

        • Sign,
          The RN club could take the Welcome Wagon gift baskets to new heights!
          I’ll start a new WW club for my hood and include tape and mats as gifts!

          Thanks for the suggestion. I don’t think the hipsters will appreciate it,will report back on the feedback.

  11. / Reply

    I know I can be really slow and non-observant at times BUT can anyone tell me when and where the “diary” disappeared to? I thought it used to be listed in line with the blog etc. Anybody know?

    • / Reply

      Categories

      Ask The Experts
      News
      Z’s Diary

      Look at the top the categories are listed like above. Z’s Diary or go to the archives for older dates.

  13. / Reply

    @Judy Berube, Thank you so much for helping me keep track of Gabbiano. Anything you see on her please let me know. LOL

    • / Reply

      Dear Peggy N:

      I will keep checking to see if she is entered in her Maiden race. Love and Hugs, JB

  14. / Reply

    I’ve gotten a few days behind on the posts and I’m just now catching up. Trina emailed me about Thunder’s plight and I’m planning on visiting him soon, hopefully this weekend if I can get off work. I saw his Youtube video and he looks like such a sweetie pie. I’ll let everyone know how it goes.
    @Girl Saratoga – I’m so glad you’re back! I really enjoy your posts.
    @Darlene Daniels – Wow, that is so fabulous that you’re going to the Breeders Cup! I’m so happy for you!
    @Shari Voltz – I’m so proud of you for going to the WV Derby and meeting Dr. Hansen. That had to be a real experience. You go, girl!

  15. / Reply

    Just started watching the Fasig-Tipton sales. Hip # 9 by Unbridled Song. There’s just nothing else to say but couldn’t you just lose your mind. Oh My Gosh what a beautiful colt. This is so addictive

    • / Reply

      It is so much fun to watch the “rich and famous” beautiful equines of Fastig-Tipton.

      Gorgeous looks, conformation and walk !!!

  16. / Reply

    GirlSaratoga, sign, Max, Judy & others – I just got caught up with all the discussions on “whipping” that started on page 4. Max, I liked at least that you said you hate the whip, even though you agree with Sign that it’s “necessary” and appropriate for training. But even though I know that often, Sign, you know much more about the sport and training and horses than I ever will, I am still not always convinced you’re right — but I am still open to learning on the subject.

    I have to say that when I saw the German rider whip his horse after a stumble and a couple of rails fell, I thought he did it from his own anger. The jumps the horse didn’t make cleanly, were see-through, so I don’t think the horse could have imagined any predators behind them. It was a combination, a double set of rails, so it looked most likely a timing issue, and maybe the horse’s fear of the height of the rails. It was the first and easier round, so most of the riders went clear. I thought it more likely either the horse was having a bad day, or horse & rider were inadequately trained. Those were my perceptions, but I can’t say in truth whether my perceptions reflect reality, as somebody else sees it. I don’t mind that. I don’t have to prove the point, I’m just saying what I think. Others can have their own thoughts about it.

    G.S. I understand feeling hurt by someone’s response, as I’ve had my share of that too. Some of our interactions can involve intense feelings. Once or twice, I felt bad enough, that I withdrew from here for a few days, or a week, until I recovered, and wanted to come back. We’re all different, and have varying sensitivities, so I just now try to make allowances for that, as I’ve gotten to know some of the different personalities a bit. So I hope you feel like staying too, in the long run.

    • / Reply

      Vicki B.

      Everyone has their opinion, but if you have not ridden or jumped a hunter/jumper then
      you may be unfamilar with how to train and ride them.

      Refusing a jump and allowing it to happen can ruin a horses career. As an owner of a very competent hunter/jumper I would be very upset if my horse were not dealt with in an appropriate manner. AND THAT PERSON WOULD NEVER RIDE MY HORSE AGAIN. I personally love the ride and abide by the training methods to get the result that is necessary in a compassionate manner.

      A DRESSAGE WHIP WAS USED ON ZENNY BY STEVE AT THE DIRECTION OF JOHN SHERRIFFS TO KEEP HER FROM LEANING INTO THE FENCE.

      • / Reply

        I thought Steve used teh whip around Zenny’s heels because she had developed a habit of continually bumping into her pony (sorry Hootie). He said it cured her very quickly.

        • Incorrect,

          Zenny was leaning in on the rail and it was used to get her to move
          away from the rail !!!!!

        • Sue,

          Basically she was leaning on the pony (not the rail, my error) and they
          tapped her on her legs (hocks) from the saddle to get her to move over and off him. Will post the link below.

          This is the exact quote:

          “While Zenyatta piled up victories, her idiosyncrasies continued. During her 4-year-old campaign, Zenyatta began to develop the bad habit of leaning into her accompanying pony.

          Willard’s girlfriend of 22 years, former exercise rider Kiki Spencer, had a background in dressage. Along with Shirreffs, they came up with the idea of using a long dressage whip to cure the habit.

          Shirreffs was for it. “A horse like Zenyatta, you can’t get rough with,” Shirreffs said. “With a long whip, he could just touch her on the hocks, which would move her over.” “

        • I guess that is why Z got along so well with Tasty. Z is a little wild herself when she feels like it and enjoyed giving the gears to Steve. Z, you are the best.

        • Thanks for that link, Sign. I had seen it before, but it was nice to read again. The main point seemed to be that they didn’t want to control Zenny too much. It sounded like they didn’t do much of it, and just a touch “on the hocks, would move her over”. The action also sounds specifically connected to what she was doing, that they wanted to change (leaning into the pony).

        • Ann-Steve Willard is definitely one of the unsung heroes of the back stretch. There are literally thousands of such people whom the public never hears about. When I used to go with my mother to visit the horses in her stable, all of these individuals were very nice to me. I was surprised that, as busy as they were, they found time to talk to an inquisitive kid.

        • Great story TC. Thanks for sharing. I would also tag along w/ my Daddy.
          There were always extra lawn chairs and everyone was always welcome to sit, chat, and watch the races, from the backside vantage point.
          OMG, I can still feel the earth shaking, as they came around,not to mention hearing the jockeys talking while riding. A few times Daddy would say…cover your ears sweetie! HA!!!!
          Weren’t we fortunate to have met these individuals growing up?

          Last summer, we went to the local crab shack and our name was called out to get pick up. A man turned and asked…hey are you so and so’s daughter?
          Well, this man was an ex jockey that knew Daddy. he then proceeded to give riding advice to my girl. She and I were in heaven, I believe he was too! Livin out the good times! Needless to say, the family was irritated that we took so long to bring home the viddles!

        • Ann-Thanks for sharing your stories. I never had it so good as I did then, I just didn’t know it at the time. The stories about the jockeys talking was especially good. There is so much noise at the track that the general public almost never hears the conversations. All of the fabulous characters I have met I would like to tip my cap to as I was not smart enough to do it at the time. I have told this story before but my mother used to regale me with stories of the 1940 Santa Anita Handicap, Seabiscuit’s last race. I wish I could hear it from her lips one more time.

        • Wow, TC,I am sure your mother’s story was fantastic. We will keep all of those wonderful and colorful characters in our hearts forever. I suppose they helped make us who we are today,we just did not know it at the time.

          Living on the east coast and in MD, we always had the shippers coming thru. This would be for rest and a quick breeze race. I loved seeing them and always had a heads up about arrival time. Great betting!

          The jockey we saw last summer had the honor of riding Ruffian,when she first started. I did not know it then and now wish I could see him again, to better pick his brain.

          We need some lawn chairs and to sit a spell, the stories and tales would be awesome!

          Ms. Vicki,glad to hear from you.We need some relatives jokes.

          TC, your mother must have been a fabulous lady!

        • Ann-Those were the days for sure. My mother was a hairdresser and she knew all of the Westmores. She loved her horses and she was fortunate enough to have a few which paid the bills for the other three. Five was the most she ever had at one time. One of Ruffian’s riders, wow! I wonder what it must have felt like on her back? Would love to pull up a chair and talk. I have often said that when old horse players gather in the future, they will be bragging about having seen Zenyatta run. I will be among them, I hope. Talk about picking people’s brains. My late sister-in-law went to high school with Elvis and had a ton of stories about him, some of which I have posted. I wish I had taken the time to pick her brain before she passed away. And yes, we need some more relatives of rednecks jokes from Vicki.

    • / Reply

      Do you speak from experience in owning, training and riding a competitive hunter/jumper, if so, who was your trainer???

      • / Reply

        Dear Sign:

        Have read that article with SW before. Thanks for posting it again. Great bond between him and Z. Hugs, JB

      • / Reply

        Sign – I think your question was meant for me. I thought I have made clear, in the past, that I have almost no experience with horses — I have never made any claims otherwise. But that does not invalidate my perceptions of the performance I saw on tv, and commented on. Did you see that same performance (the German rider who whipped his horse)? In any case, you are well entitled to your views, and I could well be wrong.

  17. / Reply

    Today I watched the jumping finals, and loved the Brits winning. I also noted that although rails fell, no one used the whip, in fact, the riders patted or stroked their horses necks, whether rails fell, or not.

    • / Reply

      Dear Vicki B:

      That’s what I love to see; riders petting and patting their mounts for a good effort. Hugs, JB

      • / Reply

        JudyB. A lot of these horses appreciate a big fat kiss too. That is great to see. With Big D, it was best to blow the kisses to him from afar.

        • Dear Max:

          Right you are! Big D needed to be rewarded with respect and from afar. Ha, Ha. Hugs, JB

  18. / Reply

    It’s cold in Canada on a brighter, but chillier, note. I saw some of the horses up here and they are so hairy!!! You might get lost if you bury your face too far into their neck! Can’t wait to be back on the states. I’ll get to post all my pictures and update my blog!

    My Miss Aurelia returns this Wednesday! Isn’t thy exciting??

    Boy, Stonestreet, between their fillies burning up the tack first time out, and MMA are LOADED with talent for this year!

      • / Reply

        Lane’s End Farm post on Facebook on My Miss Aurelia return!
        Smart Strike’s champion filly My Miss Aurelia is scheduled to make her 3yo debut tomorrow at Saratoga in the Mandy’s Gold S. This undefeated gal has been out with a shin injury.
        Good Luck Aurelia!

  19. / Reply

    Dear Louise,

    I left you some very kind words on page 5.
    Thanks for all you contribute.

    • / Reply

      Sign, thank you! You are so sweet and I really enjoy learning from you always. I mentioned to Judy Berube earlier that this is the best place to come to. Everybody is so nice and so smart and it’s the highlight of my day coming to read all the posts! I also love all the shoulders that are always available to cry on. It’s great!

  20. / Reply

    I just read a article on bloodhorse……with pictures….called “Jewel Box”…gives info on some of the famous mares at two farms in Japan…the Northern and Shadai…I think…very interesting…..
    BIG D’s girl……Gozzip Girl is there…she foaled a Deep Impact colt this year….he her first and he is black like his grandpa Sunday Silence…can you imagine? I would just love to keep track of that baby…..oh the possibilities …
    Azeri is there ….and so many others…

    • / Reply

      Wow !!!!

      So very interesting to see how international breeding works out.

      The Big D is everywhere !!!

    • / Reply

      Dear Carol and Z Fans:

      Thanks for the update on some of the horses in Japan. I like to try to keep track of them too. I keep checking on the Bid Red Farm website for news of I’ll Have Another. Hugs, JB

  21. / Reply

    GirlSaratoga
    I am so glad that you decided to stay with us.
    You are an important contributor.
    In an earlier post, you said:
    P.S. I ‘m not blaming Mike for Hansen’s ride, maybe he didn’t like the distance, or the track, or his post position or maybe the traveling was too much? We will never know what he was thinking?
    I watched the WVA Derby on Fox Sports. They did a great job of covering the race.
    In a pre-race interview with Dr. Hansen, he mentioned the 5th grade class (Shari’s)
    I taped it & hope to share the exact quote.
    In the parade to the starting gate, I almost did not recognize Hansen.
    He was not his usual white–but was sweating so profusely he looked grey.
    Yes, it was a hot and humid day-this was nervous sweat when you looked at the others.
    And, he kept playing with the pony–looked like he was trying to bite him.
    Mike kept trying to get Hansen focused but it was a lost cause.
    So, as they loaded in the gate, I said to myself: Hansen has expended so much energy pre-race that it will not be a good day.
    Of course, the rabbit Order of Hero did not help.
    So, what was Hansen thinking?
    I am itching for a fight–but, not on the track
    Keta

    • / Reply

      Keta:

      Thank you for your kind words. I would miss all of you and all the links, and the incredible info I get! It sounds like Hansen “just had an off day”, I guess my feeling is a jockey can only do so much, and if he gets no response or he can’t hold him there isn’t too much anyone can do. I hate it when I’m at the track and people swear at the horse or jockey for loosing, HELLO these are animals It’s usually hot, and they are sweaty, and the crowd is screaming and they are running at about 35mph! It makes me mad that people act this way!
      I go to the track to have fun, I watch and bet on races to have fun, if I win that makes it all the more sweeter!

      GirlSaratoga

    • / Reply

      Keta-Thanks for the benefit of your keen observations. I watched the race on TVG so did not get the benefit of the post parade. I was rather shocked at Hansen’s appearance as he was loaded into the gate.

      • / Reply

        I missed Hansen’s last race, but when I read that Hansen’s trainer was not happy with Mike’s ride on Hansen, I looked up a video to watch it. I admit that I have only seen Hansen run a few times and he seems to go to the front and stay there. I was always under the impression that his distance is one mile and that any further than that didn’t suit him too well, but depended on the competition. As I watched the race, I kept an eye on the fractions posted on the screen and at one mile, Hansen appeared to me to be in front at that point. He dropped back after a mile. Is a mile and an eighth too far for him or did he indeed have an off day, or something else?

        • This is a good question. While I think that his optimum distance is probably a mile, he should have been able to beat that bunch of horses on class alone. I keep waiting for him to run the same kind of race he ran first time out this year in which he actually rated a bit. Regardless, I am a Hansen fan.

        • Rosemary & Terry
          My opinion is Hansen is a miler.
          He is a front runner who runs more like a sprinter than a long distance runner.
          Having a bad pre-race time was not unique to this race.
          Don’t have answers. But, if I were his trainer, I would get them.
          And, solutions.
          I am a huge Hansen fan. Just wish the Hansen Team would get their act together.
          Keta

  22. / Reply

    Judy B. and Z fans:

    This quote was the one I was referring to from Max, key point is Derly responded, corrected herself and went on. No after effects, she knew Eric was right and was
    teaching her. The Grand Prix jumper riders have very special relationships with their horses. When they see them coming they are so excited because they are going to jump “big”. Kind of like Zenny and Mike, she knew she could go really really fast with him on board.

    “Max
    August 5, 2012 at 9:10 am
    Eric Lamaze used the whip on Derly just last month at Spruce Meadows. It was done after she refused to jump. He also spoke sternly to her. It seemed to work because she then tried the same jump and did it perfectly. I can tell you that it was not done harshly but I still did not like to see it. After the race, Eric said in an interview that he had concerns about Derly and whether she should go to the Olympics. He said that he did not want to push her too hard and ruin “her career.” A nice guy.”

    • / Reply

      Dear Sign, Max and Z Fans:

      I think Max said it best; the whip is some times necessary, but “I still hate it”. That’s pretty much how I feel too. Hugs, JB

        • GirlSaratoga. Glad that you decided to stay with us. One word of warning. No one on this site is allowed to criticize duct tape. LOL.

        • Dear GirlSaratoga and Max:

          Great minds…….Ha, ha.

          Max, oh no. Won’t ever criticize duct tape. What would we red necks do without it! Hugs, JB

        • Max and Judy…LOL!!!! Bought some yesterday with the new school colors.

          GS….always have a roll of duct tape on hand. Rule #1 of the club!

    • / Reply

      A commentator today said that Derly is another Hickstead in the making. She is a very careful horse who cares about what she is doing. Apparently she is more advanced for her age than Hickstead was when he was 8. Hickstead was a handful but he loved Eric. Derly’s problem is lack of experience, which time will cure. She relates well to Eric. So does Coriana van Klapscheut. His horses love Eric unconditionally because he is a good guy. He also tells it like it is.

      I saw something funny today after one of the horses came out of the jumping ring. A woman tried to give the mare a peppermint as a treat for a job well done. The mare just ignored the candy and gave her a look as if to say: “Go away. Can’t you see that I am on camera here? ” These horses know what is happening and how to perform for the camera, like Lava Man.

  23. / Reply

    Sutherland to take part in Ascot’s Shergar Cup
    Updated: Monday, August 6, 2012 9:58 PM
    Some of the world’s best jockeys descend upon Ascot on Saturday for the Shergar Cup, an international competition comprising four teams of jockeys.
    The line-up for the Rest of the World team of male jockeys is 18-time champion Yutaka Take (Captain, Japan), Dubai World Cup-winning Aaron Gryder (United States) and rising star Matthew Chadwick (Hong Kong).
    The line-up for the European team of male jockeys will be Frankie Dettori (Captain, Italy), if he is available to ride, with his teammates, three-times champion Andreas Suborics (Germany) and Cristian Demuro, crowned last season’s champion jockey aged just 19, (Italy). The line-up for the Great Britain & Ireland male team will be announced later this week.
    The three male teams will go against the first ever all-female team to take part in an international jockeys’ competition, made of up of arguably the world’s three top female riders, Hayley Turner (Captain, United Kingdom), and Grade 1-winning riders Chantal Sutherland (Canada/United States) and Emma-Jayne Wilson (Canada).
    Riders accumulate points for their teams according to their finishing positions in the six races.
    Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/71854/sutherland-to-take-part-in-ascots-shergar-cup#ixzz22p6BjaSY

  25. / Reply

    Thoroughbred Times‏ tweeted
    J. Ferguson buys Street Cry (Ire) colt for $1.2-million for Sheikh Mo;
    Empire Maker colt goes for $1.1-million to Stonestreet/George Bolton

    • / Reply

      Keta. The Street Cry colt has a very impressive pedigree and is well worth the money. However whoever bought Hip 41, the Galileo filly, just got a huge bargain.

        • Dear Keta:

          Did it again. Didn’t realize you had already posted the FT sales results and I posted again. Hugs, JB

        • Judy,
          I’m with Sign. We both like to share.
          Did you notice that the Bernardini ‘s are not on the fast track at the sale?
          Hugs back,
          Keta

        • Dear Keta:

          I did notice that some of Bernie’s babies did not do well. I’m very surprised. Three of them did not sell (maybe didn’t make the reserve) and three were “OUT”. Hip 169, colt out of Dawn Chorus sold for $700,000.00. Hip 17, a colt out of La Grande Mamma sold for $400,000.00. Another colt, out of Rooney’s Princess sold for $225,000.00; another colt for $200,000.00. Three fillies sold for $325,000, $250,000 and $225,000. You know how much I love Bernie and I always try to keep track of his babies.

          Scroll down to Hip 169 and click on “Watch” on the right side of the page to see a video of the Bernie colt that sold for $700,000.00.

          http://www.fasigtipton.com/ci/catalogues/view/2012/Saratoga-Selected-Yearlings
          Hugs, JB

  26. / Reply

    It may be old news….but I just read somewhere that The Big Red Farm has tweeted or announced IHA HAS ARRIVED!
    I am looking for the info again and checking for more info

    • / Reply

      I am going to have to pay attention to where I am when I am reading…can not find reference to IHA arrival at Big Red Farm…its out there somewhere and will show up…
      …….
      glad he got there safe….checked the web site….they have him on their stallion list….but need to fix his pedigree…it is showing Flower as his sire not Flower Alley
      …….
      I am sorry …but I just love it that there is a black colt out there that has Dynaformer and Sunday Silence as his grsndpas …
      ….
      Everyone have a very good night….love to all

      • / Reply

        Kate Hunter@KeibaKate tweeted- Another video showing I’ll Have Another getting off the van! “I’LL HAVE ANOTHER climb to the ground:” http://youtu.be/nibQg5J-3KM via @BigRedFarm
        Kate is a great Follow on Twitter.
        She is a horse racing writer in Japan. Does a great job!

        Here are more of Kate’s tweets
        Kate Hunter‏@KeibaKate
        Remember @BigRedFarm has a twitter feed, photo blog, & a YouTube site! You have not seen the last of @Ill_HaveAnother! Just a new beginning!

        Kate Hunter‏@KeibaKate
        You can come by anytime to see the stallions at @BigRedFarm! Fans are welcome in the late morning, early afternoon visit. Fan friendly!

        FYI-Kate doesn’t just keep track of IHA. She covers horse racing in Japan.
        Keta

        • Dear Keta:

          Thanks for the update on Kate Hunter. Nice to know she is there covering racing in Japan. Good way to get news on our beloved stallions. Hugs, JB

        • Thanks Keta.
          Looks like he likes the new digs.Beautiful farm!!
          He must now get use to walking clockwise. Nice seeing him kicking up his hooves. Wish they would show him first time in the paddock.

      • / Reply

        Thanks for keeping up with our “Japanese” stallions.
        Great news !!!

        Love love love that Sunday Silence !!!

  27. / Reply

    To All My Z Peeps:

    On a much lighter note……Grenada won their first medal EVER at the Olympics, and….It was GOLD! Congrats to the 19 yr for bringing home his country’s first medal ever!

    Way to Go!
    GirlSaratoga

  28. / Reply

    Terry GP:

    Thanks for such a high title! I hope I won’t disappoint you and the rest of the RNC! There’s a lot of pressure being the president, I hope I’m up for the challenge!
    Thanks for making me a part of your group, I will do my best to represent!

    GirlSaratoga

    • / Reply

      GS. I, too, am very happy you came back. Believe me, I understand that you got your feelings hurt! We all have those extra-sensitive days, it just happens sometimes! And like Sign said, it’s easier on here to think someone is being hurtful when they’re not meaning to be. No one here would mean to hurt anyone and I can promise you that if you have a bad time in your life, these Z fans will be there for you. They all help one another so much and they truly helped me when I needed it. So anyway, welcome back!

      • / Reply

        So very well said, Louise.

        Thanks for being such a great Z fan/person.

        GS,

        You definatley are very able to step up to the plate as the RN President for
        Connecticut. Of course, we all love Saratoga, ONE of the oldest well established and beautiful race tracks in the US. So much enjoying the races there for this season.

    • / Reply

      Welcome GS!
      I am sure TC will be along to tell you about the club song.
      Ms.Vicki also can fill you in on the song!

      This is a special place. It put my heart back into racing!

      Have a nice day everyone. Got to go round up some mud flaps!

    • / Reply

      GS-Your post indicates that you have accepted the presidency of the Connecticut chapter of the redneck club. Welcome aboard. As some of the other posters have indicated, we had a vote sometime back in which we adpoted “Dead Skunk in the Middle of the Road” as our club anthem. If you are not familiar with this epic tune, check it out on You Tube under either the title or Louden Wainwright, Jr., the singer.

    • / Reply

      Love this site, Ann.

      Hope you have had some great visits with our friend, LM !!!

      • / Reply

        Sign,
        Do you mean Anne from Paramount? I recall a tale about LM and Anne.
        I wish I could see that LM. What a guy.

        Isn’t it BA Tuesday at Woodrows Sign? You, Max and Z have any plans?

        • Oh yes, Ann.

          Well wish you a great visit with LM, sometime.

          Oh yes, Zenny is on her way (SM is baby sitting the young rebels);
          and Max ” where are you”? Rachel is staying in and relaxing with
          Hot Dixie Chick, sooooo glad that “young in” has moved on, Whew !!! he sure was a lot of work !!!

          Guiness for all and Evian for Zenny !!!!

    • / Reply

      Ann – I love Onslow on the PBS show “Keeping Up Appearances” and his very proper and social sister-inlaw, Hyacinth. Interesting that all the sisters are named after flowers: Onslow’s wife, Daisy, and his sisters-in-law, Rose and Hyacinth. I haven’t found the show in my area lately, unless it’s on very late. Its a favorite.

      I think Winslow is a good name for your next horse. There is a town in Arizona called Winslow.

      • / Reply

        Yes Rosemary,
        They are funny. Remember, that is Mrs. Bouquet,not Bucket. Hope you find the show. I usually see it Sat. nights.

  30. / Reply

    To All Z Fans and Dumplings,

    Thanks so much for all of the great updates and discussions
    surrounding all of the Olympic events. You all were so fortunate
    to have been able to watch the Equestrian events and keep us all
    updated.

    Great discussion on all aspect of the different events (jumping, dresssage,
    eventing). These horses are all so wonderful and talented.

    Sorry to have offended anyone regarding some of issues brought up
    that are often difficult to deal with and realize the spectrum of appropriate
    use/training. Horses are the very best and should be given the opportunity
    to grow and develop into the champions they all are in their own right with
    great owners, trainers and fan.

    Thanks again for the great update.

        • Dear Vicki,

          Can’t wait to come to Hollywood Park to see all of the CALI beauties
          there and meet all the Dumplings for BC.

          Thanks for to you for your CALI leadership !!!

        • I will be there only in spirit Sign.
          Weddings,College and etc….bleeding me dry!

          I know YOU will have a BLAST!!!!!

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