Happy Friday!
A big stack of Zenyatta Stickers are in the mail and on their way to you! We’d like to thank all of the fans who continue to support Zenyatta and this site by visiting, taking part in the discussion, and shopping with us.
We’d love to see how you are using your stickers. Send photos of Celebration Stickers and Zenyatta Stickers in action to fans@zenyatta.com. We’ll feature our favorites in a blog post.
A note on holiday orders from the Zenyatta Shop:
Orders must by placed by December 18 in order to qualify for holiday delivery. Orders placed after this date will ship after January 1st.
Here are a few new photos of Zenyatta and 13Z to finish off the week.
Enjoy!
-Team Z
Photos by Kyle Acebo.
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Judy God bless you, Lola Mae,Charlie,Hudson and all the Sweeties. Sleep tight Loved Lola Mae’s pics. Love and hugs SheenaX
Dear Ashton Such beautiful videos of Zenyatta. Your Mother was a very special woman. Hugs Sheena
Bluegrass Girl
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Shadai Farm
Here is a link to their web site.
The Company Profie tab has address and phone number.
Also there is a Contact Us tab.
http://www.shadaifarm.jp/english/index.html
Hope this helps.
Hugs, BGG
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Bluegrass Girl,
Yes, Yes, it helps so much. Thank you ever so much.
Judy has sent me info too.
These are just the most wonderful Christmas Gifts
Merry Christmas to all.
Barbara Wood (Texas)
@sheena–RIP dear Silver.
@Ashton–words fail me too. I am in tears from those beautiful videos. I would so love to go meet Michele, as she lives in my state, to give her a big hug from all of us Dumplings. I thought I had your e-mail, but I see it’s gone from my address book. We have a close bond here through our Zenny. Who would have ever thought that a horse could bring such deep friendships?
@All–speaking of horses, our daughter gave me the book about Snowman, “The Eighty Dollar Champion” for my birthday. If you have not read it, you must. I cannot put it down. For those of us who grew up in the 50’s, it is especially interesting. A story of overcoming.
@Zenny–tonight on the “CBS evening News” they did a story on the closing of Hollywood Park. I cannot believe they did not mention you once! And this is the network of “60 Minutes” , who did that great story on you. Unbelievable! Love you always.
Bluegrass Girl
Racing Victoria tweets with Photos Sat. Dec. 21 2013
Paddy’s Gem upsets Belle Couture who finishes second in a narrow photo finish
on debut at @_BendigoJC
https://twitter.com/RacingInsider/status/414594880308928512/photo/1
Bluegrass Girl
More Racing Victoria tweets with Photos
BELLE COUTURE in the pre-parade ring ahead of her debut at 2.10pm.
https://twitter.com/RacingInsider/status/414590145111654400/photo/1
Damien Oliver jumps aboard Belle Couture as they head out on the track for her debut in Race 3 which jumps at 2.10pm
https://twitter.com/RacingInsider/status/414592342465589248/photo/1
Vampressqueen Sue Colvin
nite Z ¬ so little boys anymore ;)
thx for sharing the vids ashton. <3
hugs/prayers :)
god bless
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Go my Beautiful Orfevre………………………………………….
So many prayers wished for your safety. May the Good Lord and many Angels be with you
Love You Always
carol in arkansas
Go Big O
Ashton
ORFEVRE!!
YES!!! What a race!
Peggy (N) South Georgia
My beautiful Orfevre
I’m speechless. I’m in tears and I will miss you so much. Oh my goodness that was such a great race. Just loved the way you opened up at the end and won by so much. I was hoping that TVG could stay for your fairwell party at the end. I waited but I guess there wasn’t time for them to do it. But, I am so happy I got to see the races live.
Congratulations to all especially Sunday Racing for letting you come back this year and let us see you a little longer.
I’m very sad right now, but just because we want get to see you as much.
Oh my, I’m so so happy you won. Such a great Christmas present for all who love you.
I’m gonna see you in person one day.
Your my favorite Big O……………….Love You Always
Can’t forget Congratulations to Stay Gold and Oriental Art and Especially,
SUNDAY SILENCE, now I’m crying again. Love you so much Orfevre and Sunday Silence. My eyes are going to be swollen for a while.
Terry Crow
Peggy-He proved himself to be the champion you always knew he was. Amazing that the attendance was 116,000. Enjoyed TVG’s coverage.
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Terry
I’m still on Cloud Nine. Haven’t came down yet. You have to watch the celebration that was posted below by Eveline. I think we’ve all seen history. I’m so glad we were all along for the ride with him.
Ann Maree / Tennessee
Peggy, here is an excerpt from Brisnet’s write-up. This states that he’s the richest racehorse in history, according to Equineline stats:
A crowd of 124,000 braved the wintry weather to witness 2011 Japanese Horse of the Year and Triple Crown winner Orfevre’s last hurrah in Sunday’s Grade 1 Arima Kinen at Nakayama Racecourse, and the strapping chestnut gave his loyal legion of followers a performance to remember.
It was the sixth Grade 1 victory and the second in this prestigious affair for the gleaming chestnut, who recorded the second-largest winning margin in the history of the Arima Kinen, second only to Symboli Kris S’s nine-length tour-de-force in 2003.
According to Equineline stats, Orfevre bows out with earnings of $19,005,480, making him the richest racehorse in history. Fellow Japanese runners Buena Vista ($17,018,548) and T. M. Opera O ($16,200,337), sit second and third, respectively.
Article in Brisnet: http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/editorial/article.cgi?id=41829
I also read that over 60,000 people stayed, braving the cold to watch his retirement ceremony! Somewhere his granddaddy is smiling. Sunday Silence must be very proud!
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Ann Marie
Thank you so much for the post. His final figure was even more than I had thought. You have to watch his celebration that is posted below. It’s wonderful.. I just love him dearly and I’m so glad he came out of the race safe. Now i’m just thinking how long is the plane ride to Japan???
So hope I can see him one day.
Terry Crow
Peggy-If there is any justice, you will.
Sally Blank (cherish Z for my lifetime)
Dear Peggy, Wonderful for the big O!! I am proud of him and happy for you. Ialways liked him!
hugs, Sally B
carol in arkansas
And O wins by 7…going away….great race
Dawn Conrad / Colorado
Dear Fellow Zsters,
A good part of today was spent in front of my TV watching one of the final days of racing at Hollywood Park. I must admit that I found myself crying several times and I know that tomorrow on closing day I will shed more. I wrote my friend Cynthia that it is like losing someone who is very dear to you, with the tears there are also amazing and joyful memories that bring a smile. My thoughts will be with all of Zenyatta’s Dumplings who will make the journey to Hollywood Park tomorrow or who like me will be watching from home. But, especially, my heart will be with Dottie, John and all of the Barn 55 Team. The story of their time at Hollywood Park and what they accomplished there is normally found in books or in the movies. They have been blessed to have actually lived a fairytale and we have been blessed to have been allowed to be a part of it all. The fairytale is continuing, but a very special part of it will be gone. For each of Hollywood Park’s 75 years, there are literally hundreds of stories and thousands of moments that reside in the minds and hearts of those that lived them. Tomorrow we will all say a bittersweet goodbye to a place that will forever shine as a bright star in the history of thoroughbred racing. I am re-posting a tribute I did several months ago with photos that I took on my visits to Barn 55, a place that will forever live in my own heart.
http://secure.smilebox.com/ecom/openTheBox?sendevent=4d7a59304d444d344d7a673d0d0a&sb=1
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Dawn:
Thank you. Lovey post and tribute. Merry Christmas to you and Mom. Love and Hugs, JB
Celeste_in_TX
That is such a beautiful tribute, Dawn. Thank you for sharing your photos and memories with the rest of us.
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
Thanks for that posting, Dawn! A lot of memories there. I am so glad I got to go and see Barn 55, even if Zenny was long gone. So seeing your photos brings that back for me too.
Janet Newman
Well done Dawn and a big thank-you for sharing with us.
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Dawn
Just wonderful tribute.
Ann NC
Thank you, Dawn. It is wonderful.
Terry Crow
Thank you, Dawn. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, but no more Hollywood Park.
Marshall (NC broad)
Dear Dawn,
Thank you for this beautiful tribute to Hollywood Park and Barn 55. This is exquisitely done! The music chosen, “Memories” from The Way We Were is one of my most favorite songs/movies, too. Your photos are wonderful!
I look forward to your posts which are so expressively written — just the best.
Merry Christmas to you and your mother! Hugs
HeidiK, Vallejo,Ca
That was a very moving tribute. Thank you for sharing.
Sally Blank (cherish Z for my lifetime)
Dear Dawn, Thank you so much for this lovely tribute. I can only imagine your memories of being there; but it sure made me wish I had been.
Sally B
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
A beautiful tribute Dawn – thank you for sharing your memories with all of us. I just can’t believe that this will all be gone!
Linda in NJ
Wow, Dawn what a beautiful tribute. I would love to do something like that with my photos of HP and Barn 55. So many wonderful memories that will live in my heart forever!!
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Peggy You must be sooo Happy 8 lengths WOW!!! He bowed out in style. Really hope you can get out to Japan one day to visit him.Have a great Christmas Love and hugs Sheena
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Sheena
I still haven’t came back from Cloud Nine yet I don’t think. Just a wonderful race and so Thankful to the good lord for bringing him home safely. Hope I get to see him one day.
Sheena Ryan Moore did well to with 3rd place and winning the llth race. So happy for him.
Merry Christmas
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Peggy and Z Fans:
Peggy, did you come down from the clouds yet? What a fantastic Grand Ole Chestnut (as our Ann would say). He really was splendid in his come from behind (Z style) win. Congrats Big O. So happy for him and for you. Wishing Orfevre a happy, healthy retirement. Love and Hugs, JB
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Peggy and Z Fans:
Here’s the video of Orfevre winning the Arima Kinen. Love and Hugs, JB
http://web-cache.stream.ne.jp/web/jra/onetag/sub/player.html?movie=jra_seiseki/2013/1222/201305060810&ua=4
Max
JudyB. Could not access the video for one reason. Only get a blank page.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Max:
Sorry. Let me try this again. Love and Hugs, JB
http://web-cache.stream.ne.jp/web/jra/onetag/sub/player.html?movie=jra_seiseki/2013/1222/201305060810&ua=4
Max
JudyB. Used desktop and was able to access. Great great race. Congrats grand ole chestnut, and a happy retirement.
He’s a marvellous horse but it makes you wonder what kind of a horse the French filly Treve is. Wow! She is total undefeated girl power! She is running again next year. Cartier Horse of the Year and one whom we need to watch again in 2014.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Thanks Judy. This is the first opportunity I’ve had to actually SEE the race. I guess you don’t need to understand Japanese to know how excited the track announcer was :-)
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Judy
Thank you so much. I saved it to my favorites. I am still on Cloud Nine.
Just love that horse so much. There’s just some sort of connection there.
#l in my bucket list is to get to see him.
He’s so fantastic. Loved his coming back to the stands at the end.He knew he was a winner. Just love him.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
A belated BRAVO from me Peggy!!! You were the first thought in my head when I saw that he had won. What a thrill to have a horse that you have followed and loved so much end his career in such a glorious way. BRAVO!
Ann NC
I am so happy for you, Peggy! Yes, JB, Big O is now a SUPER CHARGED GRAND Ole Chestnut. Am beyond thrilled. Great news.
Well deserved retirement, O!!!
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Ann,
I’m just over the top thrilled. He is a Super charged Grand Ole Chestnut. Love your name for him.
Just love him.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Z Fans:
Had a nice, long visit yesterday with Angela, Charlie, Hudson and her new owners, Amanda and Debbie. Got a chance to talk with them and get to know them better. They are two lovely ladies. So patient and loving with Hudson. She is one happy horse.
Due to the very cold weather, Hudson has not been ridden for a couple of weeks. Our temps for the last two days have been unseasonably warm (high 60s), so the paddocks and riding ring were soggy and messy. Amanda decided to try to lunge Hudson, but after only a few circles she slipped and her back end went down. She is OK; got right up and thank God no harm. Amanda and her Mom, Debbie then decided they would just walk the horses around the riding ring. Debbie rode Charlie and Amanda rode Hudson. Angela and I held our breath expecting to see some wild lady antics from Hudson, but aside from a little kick out with a back leg; she was a very good girl. They walked the ring in both directions and then headed in. Just as they were leaving the ring, Hudson turned her head and I heard “Ouch” from Amanda. Hudson nipped her leg. What an attitude. Actually, none of us were surprised.
Charlie was a little taken back by the mini horses that were also being walked on leads and refused to move. After some patient coxing by Debbie, he continued into the barn. He is mystified by the little horses. This from a giant that is battled scared from all the rough housing in the paddock. I counted at least six new marks on his face and neck; still tugging at his paddock mates’ blankets and getting into trouble.
Feed Charlie and Hudson their carrot treats and left the Sweeties carrots in their food buckets. These are photos from yesterday of Hudson, Charlie and Little Captain. He will be a year old in March. Love and Hugs, JB
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/59/ou0x.jpg/
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/40/v7jg.JPG/
Max
JudyB. These horses have great characters. Enjoy hearing of your visits. Nice photos too.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Max:
Thanks. Never a dull moment with Charlie and Hudson. Love and Hugs, JB
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Judy
Thank you so much for the pictures and letting us know how everyone was doing. Know you had a great time.
judy berube from Rhode Island
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/34/jmt3.JPG/ Charlie
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/545/ilnz.jpg/ Captain
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
Thanks for those photos, Judy. It’s good to put a face to a name. I laughed when I saw Captain, who I now could never mix up with Charlie!
Janet Newman
Judy,
What a cutie Captain is and of course Charlie!
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Peggy, Vicki B and Janet:
Glad you liked the photos. Captain is so cute; he loves to go for walks.
Vicki, it’s so funny because Captain and the other mini horses seem to be a mystery to Charlie. He’s not a fan. Reminds me of Hovis and his distrust of Thoroughbreds. Love and Hugs, JB
Max
JudyB. Here’s Charlie’s twin. Pretty amazing.
https://mobile.twitter.com/flutter61/status/402234032492400640/photo/1
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Max:
It’s uncanny isn’t it. They even share that independent attitude. Love it. Love and Hugs, JB
Max
Peggy. Here is your boy racing into history in grand style. Beautiful turn of foot. Congrats Big O. We won’t forget you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pvj1bB4ayT4&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Ann NC
How about that! Happy, Happy, JOY!!!!
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Max:
Thanks for finding this video of Orfevre’s win. Love and Hugs, JB
Max
JudyB. Loved the commentary in the Japanese version with that interesting pronunciation of Orfevre’s name. Beautiful race in any language.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Max:
Yes, I loved that pronunciation too. Spectacular way to finish his career. Love and Hugs, JB
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Max
He won, He won. Can you tell i’m still so excited. He’s just wonderful. How about that Stretch run home. I was a little worried early but when I saw him take that last turnwith him on the outside. I was screaming. I knew then he had it won. Didn’t think anyone would catch him. Just wonderful. And by 8 lengths. How about that…………………Just love him so much. When he shows up he really shows up.
Oh gosh I’ve watched him since he won the Triple Crown. Going to miss him so much.
And, yes Treve is really one to watch for. I tell ya Orfevre had a thing about those Filly’s
Max
Peggy. I am thrilled at this impressive win for the Big O, but even more for you. You are his faithful fan like shirlee is to her Muchie. Enjoy the win. The Big O is a special horse with a huge personality. He looks magnificient in every way. He certainly has the most majestic tail since Whirlaway. We won’t soon forget this race.
Ann NC
Great report from the barnyard , JB.
HT has an attitude like The Fly!
Funny about , PC checking out the minis, I can see him now and he was probably thinking, hmmmmm, where are their blankets? He could really play blanket bandit with a mini blanket.Love all the pics.
If any one has anymore prayers, PLEASE pray for our barn. It is on quarantine from that EHV1. Have lost 2 horses and are on pins and needles praying our precious others do not start displaying the symptons. The horse yesterday went very fast, lost her back leg control, so scary and sad. PRAYING my daughter’s horse will not be touched by this, praying. Thank you for keeping the horses in your thoughts and prayers.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Ann:
OMG, I had no idea you were going through this awful time. Will pray hard for Redlady and for all the other horses. RIP to your two beautiful ones. So sorry for your loss. Love and Hugs, JB
Max
Ann NC. Positive thoughts to you in hopes that all will be well. Very sorry to hear about this.
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
Sorry to hear that, Ann. Pins and needles, indeed!
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Ann
I will definately put them in my prayers. Will pray so hard for them.
Ann NC
Thank you my Zenny friends.
Your thoughts and prayers and the spectacular win by, O are keeping us going.
Love and hugs!
Marshall (NC broad)
Dear Ann,
So very sorry for your lost horses and will pray for your barn and the other horses there. Sincerely hope that no others will be infected.
All the best wishes that the worst is over. Hugs
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Dear Ann,
Just seeing this now and will certainly pray for the other horses. Will keep reading here – maybe there is an update.
HUGS,
Sandy
Kathy
December 22 and 25 Cherokee Devotionals
Hi everyone. We’re leaving today for Christmas week. Here is today’s Devotional as well as the Devotional for Christmas Day since it’s so great. Merry Christmas everyone!
December 22 Devotional
When we were children, everything seemed magical. Now we are grown, and the light that revealed so much to us at that early age seems to be dimmer. And we look for it less. It is true that much has happened since we were children. We see more evil around us, and we are aware of what is going on in all parts of the world. Perhaps we feel more fear now that we are adults.
But during the time when people were fighting Indians, the Indians’ fears were as great as ours are today. And here I am, an Indian, asking you not to be afraid. Trust that the events and situations of the world today will be tamed as other situations and events have been tamed in the past. Though we may not be able to see how, they will become part of life in the most ordinary ways and in the best ways. This is true because today, as it always has been, the One Spirit still reigns and in the Spirit lies our security.
We were seated on rich skins, of animals unknown to me, before the door of the Great Spirit.
-Kicking Bird, Kiowa
December 25 Devotional
My memories are filled with special people and the things they said, beautiful Christmas trees, and the smells of delicious food: homemade sausage sizzling in the skillet and the rich fragrance of coffee boiling on the wood range. My grandmother told me that drinking coffee would turn my knees black. I didn’t worry about that because I suspected that by the time I climbed all the trees I wanted to my knees would be almost black anyway. I love the memory of Grandfather taking a bite of carrots, then widening his eyes and saying, “Now I can see so much better!” I knew he was pretending and the carrots still didn’t taste any better to me, but I loved the charade and the laughter it caused. I loved Grandmother’s hot biscuits and the love she baked in each one. But perhaps what I loved best was that Christmas was about the birth of a child-and I loved being a part of that child every day of my life.
He promised us he would return to the sky no more, that he would remain at the end of the earth and guide us to the ghosts of our fathers.
-Kicking Bird, Kiowa
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Kathy:
Thank you. These are so beautiful. Merry Christmas. Love and Hugs, JB
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Kathy Oh how I wish I could regain that childish faith.I,to, have wonderful memories of my grandmother and Christmases long ago. Have a very happy Christmas you, Steve, your family and of course the Puppy Pack who will no doubt drive you mad with their bouncing balls.Did you see Ray’s cute cousin Fwankie and De Drie Musketiers such cute Goldies!!Nadolig LLawen Hugs to you Kisses for the Puppy Pack.SheenaX
Kathy
Dear Sheena,
Our memories from so long ago immediately take us back and warm our hearts so. Ray’s cousin is certainly eye candy! Just gorgeous! Have a blessed Christmas. I’ll write about all my adventures when I get back.
Hugs from me, kisses from The Pack.( Dreaming about Bouncy Balls!) Kathy
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Judy What a race!could’nt understand a word of Japanese but the commentator got awfully excited!.Loved the pics and stories. Charlie reminds me of Moosie they definitely have minds of their own!Love and hugs Sheena
Dear Ann Will be keeping you and the horses in my thoughts and prayers.They are too precious to lose.So very sad Love and hugs Sheena
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Sheena:
The race caller kept saying Orfevre’s name over and over again at the end. Gorgeous Boy. Love and Hugs, JB
Ann NC
Thank you, Sheena. Your support means the world to us. Love and hugs!
carol in arkansas
@ Peggy….I too am a fan of Sunday and all his kids and grandkids….I watched the race and cheered for O…after the race saw where 4 grooms? were trying to control him…he was NOT co-operating at all….there is a little “Halo” in all of us! This boy has Attitude.
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Carol
Yes, Aren’t Sunday’s offspring wonderful. Orfevre he does have attitude. I wondered there at the end if all the screams from the crowd were taking a toll on him. I have seen him like this before but I have seen him real calm and collected too.
I so had hoped they would show his going away fairwell but TVG didn’t. It was suppose to be after the last race.
I hoped they got him on back to the barn pretty soon and let him settle down.
Just love him so much.
Max
Peggy. Check below. Eveline has found it for you. You’ll love it. He is certainly a horse with incredible presence.
Bluegrass Girl
Orefevre saves his best for last in Arima Kinen
By Sam Walker RacingPost.com 12:30PM 22 DEC 2013
ORFEVRE finally did it. It was the victory he had promised for the last three years. The one he gave us a sneak preview of when
three lengths clear in the 2012 Arc. And finally it came, on his final start.
His whole career appeared to be building to something. The effortless class, the comfortable wins and the quirky nature which denied him so many top-level successes. And here it was in the Arima Kinen. Cards on the table, class on top.
An eight-length win in front of a huge home crowd, baying and praying in equal measure for success for their favourite son in the nation’s biggest race. And he delivered. Fitting farewells do not come so snug.
http://www.racingpost.com/news/horse-racing/orfevre-world-class-orefevre-saves-his-best-for-last-in-arima
Bluegrass Girl
This is an outstanding lengthy article written by international ratings expert, Sam Walker
. I love the last line:
“He was a headcase and a livewire, but what a talent. Ladies and gentlemen, Orfevre.”
I watched the race live and knew I was watching racing history. The greatest horse that Japan has had in probably 20 years. BGG
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear BGG
Thank you so much. It was history wasn’t it. He’s just wonderful. I am the happiest just knowing he’s still in the world with us. Was praying so hard for a safe trip for him. Love him and so happy for him.
Eveline / Maryland.
This is Orfevre’s retirement ceremony. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Z7QIBQ1EUo he sure is a handful ! Doesn’t want to know anything of the blanket, giving his grooms a handful. His jockey looks like a small child in this, LOL.
Janet Newman
Peggy will really enjoy seeing this.
The question is who was leading who? LOL
The big “O” was really feeling good.
Eveline, thanks for finding this and posting.
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Janet
He was feeling so good. Wonderful Find, I Thank Eveline so much
Max
Eveline. Fabulous find. Looks like the Big O was just telling those guys to get out of his camera angles. He’s the star of the show.
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Max That is so right. Did you notice the dance in his step at times.
Max I read he had earned over l5 million
Max
Peggy. Yes, the English papers quoted £7 million. He’ll earn even more in his next career.
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Oh, Eveline I was reading down from the top, what a wonderful surprise. Thank You so much. I am crying again. I am going to miss him so much. Oh, don’t want him to retire, but I know he has too. What a wonderful ceremony for him. I’m speechless,
Thank you . You guys are wonderful
He’s showing that attitude. Did you all notice that dance in his step at times.
Zenyatta’s got some competition.
Zenyatta love you and Orfevre.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Eveline:
Thank you. As Max said, fabulous find. What a magnificent looking horse. All the best Big O. Love and Hugs, JB
Ann NC
Thank you, Eveline. I just love it! Looks like he could have had another run of it. Love the white horses escorting him onto the course, beautiful! A ceremony fit for a champ.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Great find Eveline. He looked magnificent prancing around in the spotlight (and did you see there was actually a sunset in the background – as in “riding off into the sunset”? Wonderful music in the background too. Can’t imagine how you found this without a word of English in the post, but thanks from all of us.
Ashton
This is beautiful, from The Huffington Post:
The Night Before Christmas — Race Horse Style
By:Liz O’Connell.
Professional horsewoman and writer
“Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the farm,
Not a creature was stirring, at peace in the barn.
Hay nets were hung, water buckets were full,
An overall feeling of care and good Yule.
The weanlings were flat out, asleep while they grew,
The mares were snoring, some nearly were due.
A second past midnight, there rose such a clatter,
The horses jumped up, curious to see who made the hoof patter.
Down the aisle came Whirlaway, Nijinksy, and Slew,
Secretariat, Affirmed, Sky Beauty and Ruffian, too.
More rapid than eagles, these coursers they came*,
The mares stamped hooves, snorted and nickered their names.
The weanlings were wild eyed, prancing and pawing,
The sight of these greats, was destiny most awing.
With a toss of her head, Ruffian led the troops to the doors,
The message was clear, racing history is made and it can be yours.
The youngsters grew quiet, they saw the future that night,
To run safe, fast and strong, to race their birthright.”
— Liz O’Connell
(Inspiration and *source: A Visit From St. Nicholas written by Clement Clark Moore in 1822)
Follow Liz O’Connell on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/NYThoroughbred
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/liz-o/the-night-before-christma_1_b_4489897.html
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Ashton,
Just beautiful. Thank you so much. More tears, but wonderful tears.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Ashton:
Thanks for sharing this wonderful version of a favorite poem. Wishing you and your family a Very Merry Christmas. Love and Hugs, JB
Ann NC
Thanks for sharing. Very sweet.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Many thanks Ashton – just beautiful. Thank you also for the posts on the previous page (I am madly trying to catch up). I had never seen them before. Hugs, Sandy
Ann Maree / Tennessee
Two things…haven’t been on in a while, but I do check in now and then.
First, Orfevre was so great, and I just watched his retirement ceremony in Japanese and it brought goose bumps. Over 124,000 people turned out for his final race, and he certainly did not disappoint. Forgive if this has been posted, but here is a link to the YouTube English version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pvj1bB4ayT4&feature=youtu.be
or: http://youtu.be/Pvj1bB4ayT4
Second, there’s another horse in need of re-homing. His name is COST OF FREEDOM. Carl O Callahan, the trainer, is working to be able to buy him and send him into retirement.
He has raised quite a bit, but needs more help If you have any spare change, you can donate through PayPal: costoffreedomfund@yahoo.com You will know you got the right address when you enter the address as it will say donation to Carl O Callahan successful.
COF has earned over $1 Million, is a Grade 1 winner, is a 10-year-old gelding, and has now fallen into the lower claiming ranks. I think he was claimed for $8,000 in his race yesterday (Saturday). If Carl thinks he needs to retire, you can bet that this is an in-need Thoroughbred ready to hang it up.
Merry Christmas all and Happy New Year one and all!
Terry Crow
I would like to know why a horse who is soon to be 11 and has earned more than one million could be risked for $8,000? And, why would anyone claim this horse? The California law about claims need to be invoked and the horse returned to its previous owner. This is abuse of the worst kind.
Ann Maree / Tennessee
Terry, here is blog by Laura Pugh at HRN about Cost of Freedom. She agrees with you, only in much more emphatic language! http://www.horseracingnation.com/blogs/DeadHeat/Cost_of_Freedom_About_to_be_Charged_with_His_Life_123
Thank goodness there are people like Carl O Callahan who do care and is doing something about it. Also, hooray for Maggi Moss a truly responsible owner who puts her money where her mouth is. Fuhrever Dancing is now retired due to her efforts and it wasn’t for lack of money that it took so long. There are just some very irresponsible owners out there. I feel certain that Carl will succeed with COF… many of us are posting where to donate all over the internet, including Twitter, and I can’t wait for the announcement that he’s headed to his new home. We are hoping it’s in time for Christmas, but we will keep going until the job is done. Merry Christmas!
Terry Crow
Merry Christmas to you, Ann Maree. Thanks so much for the link. Laura Pugh put it much better than I ever could.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Ann Maree:
Wish there were more trainers/owners like Mr. O. He really loves the horses and puts their welfare first. Will see what I can send for COF. Love and Hugs, JB
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear TC GP:
You are so right. There is a Florida Bred horse who was in the same situation and has been retired to a farm in Florida a few months ago owned by the vet who was involved with his birth there. He’s twelve years old and was running at Suffolk Downs in $4,000 Claiming races as recently as July of this year.
There is another one I’m concerned about who ran last in October at Suffolk in a $4,000 Claim. He’s eight years old, but his chart indicates he is no long interested in competing. There are so many more that need to be rescued and retired. Love and Hugs, JB
Terry Crow
I believe that the maximum age at which a horse can compete in a race in California is 14, but I’m not sure. The real problem is what to do what horses who have earned their retirement and just want to live out their days in contentment. Rather than develop the property that used to be Hollywood Park, a better use would be a thoroughbred retirement facility. The population of California is approaching 40 million. A modest share of all of the ridiculous lottery money could resolve the whole issue. Say. five cents per ticket?
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear TC GP:
Again, you are right; but the powers that be would rather add to their own pocketbooks than do something good and right for the horses.
Your idea about 5 cents per lottery ticket is spot on and would add up to a very good amount for TB rescue and retirement. This could be done in all the states that have lotteries and race tracks. Love and Hugs, JB
Terry Crow
Judy-Some politician who is not worried about re-election will have to carry the ball. I am so sick of these guys. Never mind term limits. There should be an age limit.
Arlene
Dear Michelle, May you experience strength and hope in the Lord.
Ashton, I’m sure Michelle’s spirit is lifted. What a wonderful gift of videos to her and all Zsters. What a wonderful, powerful, gentle Queen Zenyatta is !!! Many thanks.
May you all have a wonderful Christmas and New Year all year.
Love, Arlene from Vermont
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Max Every horse should have Peggy as a fan, maybe I was similar with Frankel and Kauto. Can you imagine Treve as a 4 yr old, have heard she’s coming over to RA for the Prince of Wales. Was great to see the Japanese appreciate a champion.Looking forward to Boxing day now and SS the next day. A very Happy Christmas to you and yours Hugs Sheena
Max
Sheena. Check out Frankel’s website. He’s examing his new Breyer, and nice it is too. Some of the profits are going to a charity chosen by Cecil.
Trêve is in a league of her own. Hopefully she can carry her form to next year. If you look at her fractions in the Arc, it is darn incredible as she was increasing her speed at the end. Her grand sire is Montjeu.
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Max YAY!!!! Quadruple neighs Kauto is having a statue at Kempton next year!!!!Only the DVD to go now!!Hugs Sheena
Max
Sheena. I thought that Kauto already has a statue? Is this another? Neighs for sure.
Bluegrass Girl
Jerry Bossert NY Daily News tweet Sunday Dec. 22 2013
Jockey Junior Alvarado @Juniorjockey broke his ankle in three places
during a gate incident for the East View Stakes #aqueduct
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear BGG:
Wishing Junior A. all the best. Love and Hugs, JB
Ann NC
Oh no, I feel so sorry for him. Stay strong JA.
Bluegrass Girl
Mike Smith to be Inducted Into New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame
by Paulick Report Staff | 12.22.2013 | 10:49am
Jockey Mike Smith has been selected as a member of the 41st class of inductees for the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame.
Born in Roswell and raised in Dexter, N.M., Smith began his riding career in his home state, taking out his first jockey’s license at 16 in 1982, before establishing himself as one of the top riders in the nation. He has gone on to notch more than 5,100 wins with nearly $250 million in career earnings.
http://www.paulickreport.com/news/people/mike-smith-to-be-inducted-into-new-mexico-sports-hall-of-fame/
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear BGG:
Congrats to Mikey. Love and Hugs, JB
Terry Crow
My only comment would be–What took them so long?
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Mama Z, COZ, Prince 2 and Baby Z:
Sweet Dreams. Love You. Hugs, JB
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Max Kauto has a statue in Haydock the new one will be at Kempton where ,of course, he won his 5 King Georges.He (Kauto) would like it modelled on Yeat’s beautiful statue at Ascot!Congratulations to Mike Smith one of the US’s greatest jockeys. Hugs Sheena
Max
Sheena. I see that Kauto says that Clive Smith has promised the same kind of statue. Neigh!
Mike is also one of the nicest people, like all of Team Z, and the Queen herself. She’s perfect.
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Judy Goodnight God bless you, Lola Mae Charlie, Hudson, Cutie Captain and all the Sweeties. Sleep tight . Love and hugs SheenaX
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Sheena:
Love and Hugs, JB, LM, PC, HT, Cap and all the Sweeties