Zenyatta

Queen of Racing

Zenyatta News

August Photo Update

Photo by Alys Emson/Lane's End
Zenyatta and 13Z. Photo by Alys Emson/Lane’s End

Photo by Alys Emson/Lane's End
Zenyatta, 13Z and paddock mate. Photo by Alys Emson/Lane’s End

Zenyatta and 13Z. Photo by Alys Emson
Zenyatta and 13Z. Photo by Alys Emson

Happy Monday!

Alys sent us a few new photos of Zenyatta and her Tapit colt out on a sunny day.

13Z has become quite the big boy! He had a visit with the blacksmith last week—watch the video below to see how well behaved he was.

Alys also caught Coz and Cooper Sawyer playing with a jolly ball.

In case you missed last week’s updates, we have recently added new content to the Photos and Videos sections. Head on over to see the new 13Z gallery and an especially unique video of Z.

Enjoy!
-Team Z



Reader Interactions

1,279 Comments

  1. / Reply

    Dear Max Do hope Toro hasn’t picked up Moosie’s bad habits!!!I read the racing post while out today and the Stewards reported Toro was coughing at the end of the race. the firm ground didn’t help Al Kazeem. Longchamp should be more to his taste.I was interested to see you have visited some of the sites of the English civil war .Cymru am Byth Sheena

    • / Reply

      Dear Max and Sheena:

      Hope Toronado is OK. Please let us know if you find any updates on him. Love and Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Sheena. I am alarmed to hear about Toro coughing. Please let us know if you hear anything more about this. Not only have I visited Civil War sites in England, I also lived within walking distance of the North Parade, Oxford for almost 4 years. Actually my favorite part of the UK is Loch Ness. Love the elusive Nessie.

    • / Reply

      She and Zenny would seem to defy the myth champion mares have problems having foals and caring for them. She and the foal look beautiful.

    • / Reply

      Dear BGG:

      Thank you so much for the photos of Exceedingly Happy and Goldikova with their beautiful babies. Goldi and her foal keep in step just like Z and the Red Prince. Too cute. Love and Hugs, JB

      • / Reply

        JudyB. Goldi and colt look nice, but for perfect symmetry, nothing tops the Queen and 13Z. It’s a 10 out of 10 from this judge for Z and 13Z. There is also something magical about them.

        • Dear Max:

          You’re so right. There’s no match for the Queen and her babies. There’s truly something so special about Z. Just love her and the boys. Hugs, JB

        • Judy and Max, I so agree with you both. Goldi and her foal are beautiful, but Zenyatta and her boys take my breath away! I love them so! Hugs, Dawn

    • / Reply

      Sheena. I have considerable respect for her trainer. He trained Lucarno and Thought Worthy, sons of Big D. I hope that she does well at Santa Anita. She should however stay clear of Dan if she’s looking for a win. Maybe the Filly and Mare’s Turf would be a good choice?

  6. / Reply

    Dear Sheena – a belated “no problem” about the new royal family picture. We’re undergoing a major change in news coverage here in my city. Printed versions of the daily paper delivered to homes only 4 days a week (brief versions other days must be accessed on-line or at news stands). “The Picture” appeared yesterday – guess they were saving it for a home-delivery day, but I think most of us had seen it on-line by then.
    I think these folks are in for a tough time – read Max’s interesting comments about at least people wanting them not to be “too ordinary” (hence, not royal enough), but I have to believe that a stronger connection with us plain folks will be for the better. Anyway, I still think it was a great shot.

  7. / Reply

    @Judy Berube – Hi, I know what you mean about traveling in the heat. Before my husband and I left for Florida I noticed our car air conditioner seemed to be loosing cooling, so we got it recharged! We had a good trip. Hope your Lola Mae is doing well.
    Blessings. Arlene from Vermont

      • / Reply

        Judy-Lola Mae is just about the cutest dog I’ve ever seen, other than my Buddy. Everyone thinks their dog is the cutest, but you may have a legitimate claim.

        • Dear TC GP:

          Thank you so much. She is a cutie, but we are all proud Mamas and Papa aren’t we. They’re all so beautiful. Love and Hugs, JB

      • / Reply

        JudyB. Lola’s looking well. What is that green creature in the background? Looks like a little dinosaur. Is it a toy for Lola?

        • Dear Max:

          It’s Lola’s toy Alligator. She has a few plushies that she loves; he’s one of the favorites. Love and Hugs, JB

        • JudyB. That toy is very like the Loch Ness monster. Beautiful. Lola Mae has excellent taste in toys.

      • / Reply

        Dear Judy,
        Thanks for this picture of the famous Lola Mae — what a cutie!
        So glad you are both doing well. Lots of big hugs!

      • / Reply

        Hi Judy. Thanks for the pictue of TOO CUTE Lola Mae. Glad you’re both doing well. How old is Lola Mae?
        Thank you for all the links to great horses.
        Love & Hugs, Arlene

  8. / Reply

    It looks like 13Z has his mom’s calm disposition. It’s so cute that he is posing just like her in each picture. Coz is just adorable and really full of vim and vigor. Thanks for the
    pictures and videos.

  10. / Reply

    Love the pictures and video! Just took another look at the KY news video of Z and Coz when he was running around the pasture and being VERY vocal. What fun! It appears that 13Z isn’t quite as full of the nick as his older brother—am I wrong??

  11. / Reply

    good morning Zenny
    hope you and your wonderful boys are doing well
    PU…to all equines, felines, canines, and humans too…who need it
    hope the fires in Idaho are going out
    getting hot down here….no rain in sight
    ….
    Cappers…..9 in Travers and 13 in Pacific….my pedigree searches are working overtime…
    but that’s where I start my handicapping…
    …..
    hope all the best day ever…
    hope my car gets fixed soon….this being trapped in the house is REALLY irritating

    • / Reply

      Dear Carol:

      Good luck with the “capping” and the car. I hope I get on the board this week. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      I must have missed a chapter Carol. Being trapped inside IS very irritating (but don’t let it get to your cappin’ skills :-) Hope the car is all better soon.

  12. / Reply

    Dear Terry, Max, Kathy R, and all the Civil War buffs. I’m so excited to see so many here and would love to continue these conversations. Being from South Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee, I guess you can guess I tend to feel most sorry for our poor boys in the south, but I, too, go back and forth. I’m totally obsessed with the Mass 54th and Robert Gould Shaw from the movie, Glory, and have every book written about that, I think. I also love the southern generals and especially Lee. I have tons of books on the war and still treasure the Civil War documentary by Ken Burns and watch it over and over. I started collecting Eagle breast plates and belt buckles and am getting ready to get one from Vicksburg. I have one from the Battle of the Crater, one from Frederick, Maryland, one from the North Anna battlefield in Virginia and I hope to get many more and they have to be “dug” because I love the idea that these were worn by someone. It sounds weird I know but I can’t help it. I have them in cases because of the lead content and I’m not supposed to touch them, but I have to occasionally, I can’t help myself. I wish I could sit and talk to all of you because I have a feeling you all have got more knowledge than me that you could share. I hope you will share some here. Don’t hold it against me being from the south, I definitely am glad the war turned out the way it did, those southern ideals back then just fascinate me.

    • / Reply

      Louise-This has been an interest of mine for quite some time. Hold your southern roots against you? I have gotten into many an argument about the Southern Cross and what it meant to those brave soldiers. The argument against the actual Confederate flag may be valid, but the battle flag of the Army of Northern Virginia should never be ridiculed. That having been said, SOME of the things that the south fought to preserve are among the worst causes ever. I know a man who worked on Glory and if you would like to hear some stories about it, let me know.

        • Dear Louise, Terry and Sally:

          Louise, don’t be ashamed of your heritage: the Civil War was one of the reasons we decided to visit the USA as our first overseas trip. And it was the main reason for the second visit, even though we didn’t get to see as much of the Deep South battlefields as we wished, due to time constraints. But there’s always next time. And the Civil War is such a significant part of American and world history. Agree with you, Glory is a great movie (as is Gettysburg). And Terry, agree with you about the ANV battle flag. We should never ignore the bravery of the men in gray and blue.

      • / Reply

        Terry and Civil War peeps, are you kidding? I would love, love to hear more about Glory. Such an interesting story and I can’t tell you how many times I saw the movie. It was so great! I agree that some of the things the South fought for were not to be admired, but they were so sure of themselves and that they would win quickly and that they were right. The whole war and the numbers of deaths and injuries just boggles the mind. I love Shaara’s books and haven’t read the one about Vicksburg. Let us know how it is. Sandy, I am not a Civil War scholar, wish I was, but didn’t really get into it until I was grown. Now I can’t get enough! Has anyone read Blue-Eyed Child of Fortune, the civil war letters of Robert Gould Shaw? If you haven’t, it is really, really interesting and you should. Anyway, looking forward to hearing more from everyone.

        • A lot of the stories about that film I have forgotten. I will have a phone conversation with my friend this weekend for the express purpose of rekindling my memories. Besides, he is a good friend that I have not spoken to recently. I will have some stories next week.

    • / Reply

      You Civil War scholars are making my head spin. High hoof to ALL of you for your interest and knowledge. Wish I’d studied harder in American History. I’m sure I learned stuff back then, but it hasn’t stuck in my brain very well :-(

      • / Reply

        A good teacher can, indeed, make a difference and influence a person for the rest of his or her life. In my case, it was a history teacher in my senior year in high school and I will never forget her. I am sure many of your students feel the same about you.

    • / Reply

      Lou. We all can always learn new things. As far being from the South is concerned, good for you. I may go back and forth but mostly, as in 99%, I stay with the Southern generals. Lee was a great man and Traveller was a great horse. I love that horse.

      • / Reply

        Lee was a great man but, unfortunately, Jefferson Davis had him in an advisory capacity when the war started. It was not until General Joe Johnston was wounded during an early battle that was taking place near Richmond was Lee was elevated to command of an army, and only then because there was no one else available. Johnston was in command because he had been a general in the old army and a lot of weight was given by Davis to that. But, Johnston had been a quartermaster general and had not commanded troops. Lee had been a colonel in the old army. Most civil war buffs know this, but Lee was offered command of the northern army by LIncoln before the war started. If he had accepted, history would be much different.

        • Speaking of Jefferson Davis, I live minutes from Beauvior in Biloxi, MS which is where he lived and died and wrote his memoirs after the war. I have visited too many times to count. It is a gorgeous plantation with a wonderful museum and library and a gorgeous cemetery where retired civil war soldiers are buried. Beauvior became a retirement home for soldiers after Davis’s death. Anyway, it was heavily damaged during Hurricane Katrina, but they are bringing it back beautifully. I have mixed feelings about Davis, but love visiting the plantation. They also have great reenactments there! Can’t wait for more Glory stories.

        • Louise-That place is now on my bucket list. Thanks for letting us know. I really think that if someone else had been president of the Confederacy that things would be much different today. He had too many personal favorites who were incompetent. Glory stories next week.

        • TC, Lou, Kathy R and all other Civil War buffs. Enjoyed the comments about Lee and others. Traveller is my favorite CW horse, but U.S. Grant’s main horse, Cincinnati, was impressive too. He stood 17 hands and was tough as nails. We could only discuss all of the horses that these generals had, which alone could fill books. The Civil War is endlessly fascinating. Historians say that from the horror and chaos of this conflict sprang up within the nation a renewed strength which put the US on the path to being the super power which has been since the last century. The difference in circumstances between 1860 and 1960 is vast.

  13. / Reply

    Hi Louise–thank you for filling us in on your Civil War interest. I don’t hold it against you, as I am from the South too. No doubt you have been to Shiloh.
    The war turned out the way it was bound to. Many believe the loss of Stonewall J. spelled doom for the South, among other things. I was so very lucky to have wonderful history teachers in high school (actually better than in college!) Hugs.

    • / Reply

      Barbara-I have almost finished Shaara’s book on Vicksburg. I will give you a review when I complete it. I am quite familiar with this battle and I must say that Shaara’s knowledge is rather staggering. Considering the differences in resources, the Confederates were a definite longshot from the beginning. It lasted as long as it did because the north did not take it that seriously in the beginning and the south had much better generals when the war started. Are you familiar with the theory that Jackson’s nickname was an insult rather than praise?

      • / Reply

        Glad you are enjoying the book.( To all interested in the Civil War, Jeff Shaara makes it really understandable, as it is told from the point of view of the people involved). No, I’m not sure I have heard that theory. Interesting. let me know what your impressions are.

        • Barbara-At the Battle of Bull Run, or Manassas if you prefer, Jackson’s troops were being held in reserve until the time was right. General Bee’s troops were having a tough time of it when he noticed that Jackson’s troops had not yet been engaged. He then said to an aide, “Look. There’s Jackson standing like a stone wall.” depending on General Bee’s tone of voice and its inflection, that comment could have different meanings. The General died during the battle so he could not be questioned about exactly what he meant. My own opinion is that Bee was mad that Jackson’s troops had not yet attacked, leaving his men to suffer heavy losses. The nickname Stonewall was forever attached to Jackson after that battle but never in a negative manner. I leave it to the experts to decide.

    • / Reply

      Barbara, I too have been to Shiloh. There is an eerie feeling there. If you squint you can almost see the soldiers, the smoke and hear the gunfire.

      Being from Kentucky, I had great grans on both sides during the war. My great grandmother told of soldiers from both armies stopping to water their horses at their farm just outside of Perryville before the battle.

        • Sounds like a good plan, Barbara. Terry, I would love to share some of my stories. Thank you for your kindness.

        • Dear Barbara and Dawn:

          Love the idea of a Civil War Dumpling fest: suppose Canberra would be out of the question? (just kidding). Cheers, KathyR.

      • / Reply

        shirlee-Mrs. Lincoln, being from Kentucky, also had relatives on both sides. Some members of congress actually felt that she was a spy for the Confederates.

  15. / Reply

    Dear Sandy Will certainly remember to send you any pics when they next came out. I love William and Kate and their natural easy charm but can see Max’s point of view too the Royal Family can never be ordinary there has to be an air of mystery about them. There was a letter in the Daily Mail today saying the Middletons were nothing but a bunch of upstarts who were taking over the Royal Family!!!I’m not a fan of sister Pippa who is milking her Royal connections for all it’s worth I really wonder what will happen when the Queen dies she has been such a constant in our lives it’s hard to imagine her not there. We shall see a big difference, I think,in the UK and the commonwealth hugs Sheena

      • / Reply

        Dear Judy:

        Your sweetie Lola Mae would look just gorgeous next to my white standard poodle General (he was born on Stonewall Jackson’s birthday). Hugs, KathyR.

        • Kathy R-You have proved your civil war bonifides when you name you dog after Stonewall, at least sort of.

        • Dear Kathy R:

          Love your choice of name. I bet he’s gorgeous. Love and Hugs, JB

  18. / Reply

    Made my picks for the travers and the Pacific. Hope it works this time. I really don’t think it was us last week, I think it was there system. Good luck to all the cappers.

    • / Reply

      Such confidence is to be admired!!! I’ll be changing my mind right up to the very last minute. LOTS of good horses in both races. Hope everyone’s bet goes through this time – I can’t take any delight in seeming to be ahead of people whom I know should be ahead of me.

      • / Reply

        Sandy-Don’t sell yourself short. I guarantee that you know more than 90% of the people who go to and bet on the races.

  20. / Reply

    Hi all; Left responses on 5. My computer is acting up again that I tried to catch up on 5 and all the war posts that I can not take any more time here now.
    God bless you all with a better tomorrow!!
    hugs, Sally B

    Goodnight sweet Zenyatta. I can close my eyes any time of day and picture you!!
    love n kisses on your soft nose and some to Coz and 13z too
    Auntie Sally B

  21. / Reply

    Zenyatta, you really have it well, girl!!!! You keep having foals!!!! How many more will you have? I think it’s great! Your boys are having lots of fun! They will achieve and be very successful in life like their mother and respective fathers. They will become champions. Keep up the great videos! Lane’s End Farm is definitely the good life!

  23. / Reply

    Dear Max You are quite right about Charles. It was the time his marriage was in trouble and a conversation was recorded between him and Camilla and a tampon was referred to. Somehow I cant see our Queen behaving like that but then nobody knows what goes on behind closed doors!!!! hugs Sheena

    • / Reply

      Sheena. The Queen is to be admired for keeping the doors firmly closed. That and her love of horses tells a lot about her. I recall her clear delight in greeting Black Caviar at Ascot and Nelly’s reciprocal recognition of a kindred spirit in her monarch.

        • TC. The Queen is an expert about horses. It has been said that she reads the Racing Post first at breakie each day. She and her late mother raced many great horses, as The Queen still does. She is an excellent equestrian herself, not losing her mount when an anarchist fired a shot during the trooping of the color. The Queen and her favorite horse, Burmese, a black filly and a gift to her from the RCMP, whose horses are always black, stood their ground and never flinched in the chaos. No doubt at all that she would love a chat with a famous US jockey like Calvin.

        • Wouldn’t you have loved to be a fly on the wall during that visit? Maybe needed an interpreter?

  24. / Reply

    Dear Fellow Cappers:

    I did it again; picked Exacta Boxes for each race this week. If I fail again to make the board, I promise next week I’ll make a show bet. I’m starting to get a complex about not helping the team. Hope this week is a charm. Love and Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Interesting. The fact remains that Verrazano has only run one bad race in his life, that being the Kentucky Derby and he had plenty of excuses in that one, including the off track. Appears to be the one to beat. Picking an exacta box is another story. I wish the rules would permit exacta beta on more than one horse instead of a box. For instance, a straight $10 exacta, Verrazano and the war horse, sorry I don’t remember his actual name at the moment, and Verrazano and Palace Malice. But, Verrazano always on top.

      • / Reply

        Dear TC GP:

        I love Verrazano. I Exacta Boxed V and Palace Malice in the capping contest. War Dancer is the War Front colt. Good long shot pick. Hugs, JB

  30. / Reply

    Dear Max:

    Yes she does and she plays with the same ones over and over again. She still has a toy from when she was only a few months old that’s really worn as you can imagine. I will have to replace it one of these day. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Dear TC GP:

      I agree with you totally; never believed Alydar’s death was an accident. Love and Hugs, JB

      • / Reply

        Judy-I know you are familiar with this story. An expert later testified that there was no way that Alydar could have knocked the door off its track by kicking it. He would have had to be able to jump 12 feet in the air. One of the theories is that Alydar’s leg was tied with a rope and the other end to a pickup truck. Just thinking about makes me sick. Lundy received the insurance proceeds just in time to prevent Calumet from being foreclosed upon and it was also noted that the insurance premiums had not been paid for quite some time and were about to be cancelled by the companies which wrote the overage.

      • / Reply

        JudyB. Thanks for that photo of the grand ole chestnut. He was handsome. It’s horrific to think of how he suffered. I know one thing for certain: inevitably there is always retribution for such things, in this life or in the next the wheel always comes full circle. RIP Alydar.

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