Zenyatta

Queen of Racing

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American Thoroughbred Instagram Contest

Enter Neil Latham's Instagram contest for a chance to win this print.
Enter Neil Latham’s Instagram contest for a chance to win this print.

Win A One-of-A-Kind Artist Proof of Zenyatta in an Instagram Contest!

In order to thank Zenyatta enthusiasts for their outpouring of response for the American Thoroughbred photography project, artist Neil Latham is offering the Artist Proof of Zenyatta’s portrait to one lucky person in an Instagram contest. This one-of-a-kind print was used in the editing process for his coffee table book, and has hand-written notes from the artist on the back. “It’s a very special piece,” says Latham.

In order to win the 5×7-inch, archival quality, chromogenic print, contest participants must go to Latham’s Instagram page, @neil_american_thoroughbred and open the Zenyatta portrait offered in the contest, pictured above.

Three actions to enter this contest:
1. Follow @neil_american_thoroughbred
2. Like the photo associated with this contest
3. Comment on the photo and tag two friends in your comment

There is just one week to take these actions – the contest winner will be selected on Monday, August 8.

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Instagram, Inc., Team Zenyatta, LLC, or Zenyatta.com. By entering, entrants confirm that they are 13+ years of age, release Instagram and Team Zenyatta, LLC of responsibility, and agree to Instagram’s terms of use.

Please direct inquiries about this contest to info@neillatham.com.

A Stand-Out Among Hundreds
It was actually this small work print of Zenyatta that convinced Jack Woody, owner of Twin Palms, to publish the American Thoroughbred book. His company publishes books by prestigious photographers such as Walker Evans, Duane Michals, Bruce Weber and Herb Ritts. When Woody agreed to fly to New York from his Santa Fe headquarters to review the photography collection, Latham narrowed his 6,000-plus images down to about 400, produced 5×7-inch prints of them all and posted them across his studio wall to review.

“As he walked into my studio, the first photograph he locked eyeballs onto was Zenyatta,” says Latham. “She was in a sea of hundreds of images, yet the shot pulled him in. It only took a few seconds from when he walked into the room before the magic moment happened. He remarked that it was iconic. And the thing was, he didn’t know anything about Zenyatta. He zoomed in on her portrait not because of her fame, but because of the language of the photograph, the architecture of positive and negative spaces. Her racing legacy adds another layer to the image.”

When Woody perused the entire collection, he decided to take on the book, remarking that it is an interesting and unusual approach to portraying horses. When he saw the large 50×60-inch prints, he was captivated by the grandeur and quality, explains Latham.

Contest 2Contest 3

Work Prints Reveal Process
As the artist and publisher debated about the final 80 selections for the book, they laid the small work prints on the floor and moved them around like squares on a quilt. They agreed on about 70 percent of the photographs and negotiated the rest, with the understanding that the Zenyatta portrait would be a lead image, explains Latham. They wrote notes on the back of the prints, and they were re-ordered many times until the book page plan was finalized.

Work prints for American Thoroughbred
Work prints for American Thoroughbred
“The photo editing process was very difficult, but I was lucky to have Jack Woody to work with – he has a discerning eye,” says Latham. He adds that these artist proofs, which will not be sold, are the heart of the project, as they were consulted throughout production, and shipped back and forth until the project was completed. “There is only one of each used throughout the design, editing and layout of the book, so they are very special,” he says.

Print To Go To An Enthusiast
Although Latham hates to break up the full set of 80 Artist Proofs used for the book, he says he believes this print should belong to one of Zenyatta’s enthusiasts. “I don’t get to hear feedback on my work, so I was really touched by the comments on Zenyatta’s blog, and wanted to give something back to those people who love her,” says Latham.

“As a photographer, I want my work to mean something to people, and it feels like my mission has been accomplished. It makes my heart feel full to think of someone equally passionate owning this print,” he says.

Latham hopes that as many people as possible will participate in the Instagram contest for a bit of fun and competition in Zenyatta’s name. Pass it on!

Neil Latham’s Instagram for the contest: @neil_american_thoroughbred

Using work prints to lay out the book.
Using work prints to lay out the book.

Coffee table book
Zenyatta is highlighted in the limited edition fine art coffee table book “American Thoroughbred” by Neil Latham published by Twin Palms. It features 182 pages with 80 duotones, and is casebound and slipcased for quality presentation. It retails for $95 and is available from the publisher at https://twinpalms.com/books-artists/american-thoroughbred/ or from Amazon (ISBN: 978-1-936611-12-6).

Limited edition prints
There is a special Zenyatta Collection of images, as well as other famous Thoroughbreds, available in sizes ranging from 24 x 30 inches up to 50 x 60 inches. They are numbered, finished on archival paper with museum framing, and signed by the artist. www.neillatham.com

Reader Interactions

150 Comments

  1. / Reply

    Neil Latham – what an amazingly generous thing for you to do for the Z Nation. You captured the essence of her soul and her regal love in this one shot. She has touched so many people and has brought us all together here in this Blog. And now, you have added another dimension to our experience with your stunning book.

    We are forever grateful for the care that you have taken with our Queen through your art and your prose.

  3. / Reply

    Dear Zenny,
    Sweet dreams to you and everyone that loves you. So looking forward to new beginnings surrounding you. with love, Elizabeth

  4. / Reply

    August 3 Cherokee Devotional

    We yearn for loyalty, but we cannot demand it. Others must offer their loyalty to us-and we must earn that loyalty through kindness and decency. We must also wisely respect the basic rights of others, including the right of others to have their own opinions. Remember that once person’s rights end where another person’s rights begin. Mutual respect inspires loyalty: we must be loyal to those we expect to be loyal to us.

    When this pipe touches your lips may it act as a blessing upon my tribe.
    -Black Thunder, Fox

  5. / Reply

    Thank you, Neil, for capturing the depth of the soul and personality of Our Queen Zenyatta. As you have discovered, Zenny is so very special to Her Nation. I truly hope to meet her one day. I am happy you not only met Her, but you also fell in love with Her. Your studies of Queen Zenyatta make that apparent.
    Take care,
    Mary in Boone

    • / Reply

      Dear Judy.Thanks for sharing this article.Dan,who used to be with Paul Nicholls,is doing very well as a trainer himself now and,of course,we all know Princess Anne and Zara’s love of the sport.Love and hugs Sheena

    • / Reply

      Dear Judy B.,

      Thank you for a most interesting article. I didn’t realize Michael Matz was on the Olympic Jumping team and won a team silver medal at Atlanta in 1996.

      Much farther down the page was an article entitled “Secretariat’s Preakness Garland Sale to Benefit Charity”. I wonder how it was preserved for 43 years! The sale of it will benefit the R.A.C.E. Charity. I hope it brings in a lot of money. The article stated that Secretariat’s long-lost 1A saddlecloth from the Kentucky Derby was valued at $250,000 by SI, and a worn racing shoe of Big Red’s sold for $35,000 at another sale.

      Thanks again!
      Hugs and Love

      • / Reply

        Dear Marshall:

        Yes, MM was a member of the 1972, 1992 and 1996 US Olympic Teams. He shared the Silver Medal in 1996 with the American Team. He’s won Gold and Bronze in other world equestrian events as well. Very successful TB trainer too. Love and Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Judy,
      Sure is a competitive field. Frosted looks very good. Love the giggle I get every time I see Effinex’s name and he can run when he feels like it. Have been a fan of Upstart since his 3 year old season. Glad I am not betting this race.

      Safe trip to all of them.

      • / Reply

        Dear Shirlee:

        Yes, this is a really talented group. Get a chuckle out of Effinex’s name too. Feel that Upstart has a lot of potential; believe he could be in the thick of it. He last raced on June 11th, so don’t know if the lay off will be a benefit or not for him. We shalll see. Of course, the two warriors, Effinex and Frosted, are a force to be reckoned with.
        Godspeed all; safe and sound. Love and Hugs, JB

  8. / Reply

    Dear Kathy.Call me Dave should have read your devotional when he called the EU referendum.He’s enjoying himself in Corsica I think.Larry has over 89000 followers now and has decided to call a truce with Palmerston and concentrate on their one common enemy Gladstone!Palmerston got a lovely tie from Paraguay and is pictured modelling it.Gladstone is looking forward to watching Ed Balls(former shadow chancellor)in “strictly come dancing”He has the moves!
    It’s very stormy here today and Tegid has been “cwtching” on the nest.I went on Glaslyn and W7 has eaten but her foot isn’t too good.T6 on the Rutland who also injured her foot has been on an adventure.She was missing for 4 days but has returned safe and sound.Given her injury they were very worried but she has healed well.
    You get to see a good side to social media in times of trouble The Ty Nant sanctuary have been getting gifts and there were many offers of help for them to join twitter last night they now have over 200 followers and I have posted a pic of the guy responsible on my FB.Carl and the dressage team left for Rio yesterday I cannot believe they have temps of 82F and it’s wintertime there.Fubu hasn’t been at well recently Kimberly really should think of his quality of life now and not herself.I quite understand it will be painful for her but he cannot eat now and she has asking for help with the huge vet’s bills.Where are her family to help?I feel so sorry for him.
    Sprout is in a Petsmart advert and Mouse can hold her toys now.Poor Mr Fibbs his spacepod isn’t working and the conbenshun is starting Someone asked if he is holding the conbenshun in space!I told him his country needs him!And the doughnuts.Hope you have a great day.Love and hugs to you,Kisses for Angel Holly,Nikko and Sugar SheenaXOXO

  9. / Reply

    Dear Sheena,

    Call me Dave along with most all other politicians! lol Corsica sounds nice. Wish we were there, too! Congratulations to Larry for all those likes! I hope Palmerston enjoys that tie. Have fun watching Ed Balls, Gladstone! I had no idea you had so much rain in the summer. That certainly is different from the weather here. If we do get rain it’s only maybe a dozen drops and then we steam. lol I’m glad W7 has eaten. We’ll just have to stay tuned. Good to know T6 is back and is safe. That’s good so many have rallied around Ty Nant. I’ll look for your post of the guy responsible. We’re all getting excited for Rio. Good luck, Carl and the team! Fubu is in a bad way. I wish Kimberly would be realistic and let him go. You know he is suffering greatly. My God, look at Steve and me and our precious Holly. We knew what would be ahead of her and didn’t want her to go through that. I was so glad they posted Sprout’s Petsmart commercial. He’s such a beautiful little guy. Mouse is progressing nicely. I hope they can get that spacepod running. With any luck they have a good mechanic. Have a good Hump Day. Love and hugs from me, kisses from Angel Holly, Nikko and Sugar. Kathy XOXOXO

  10. / Reply

    Hello Everyone:
    I have been very busy this summer going to the different races on the east coast. Zenny, you would have been very impressed with Songbird’s race in Saratoga. Wow, she is fast. I also watched the Clement Hirsch race this past Saturday. It brought back many fond memories when I saw you in that race. I excited I was to fly out to CA to the Del Mar to see your 18th race, Zenny. I will never forget the first and only time I ever saw you!

    You were as magnificent and magical just as everyone said you were. Saturday, your name was mentioned quite a bit as Beholder circled the paddock.

    Wishing you all the best Zenny, and Team Z. Sure hope everyone is enjoying the summer.

    • / Reply

      Dear Linda,
      What a fun summer you’re having! Love Songbird also. Such great memories you have, especially watching Zenny run at Del Mar! Years ago, my very first painting commission was for a man who had a horse named ‘Ojo Azul’ (Blue Eyes) who raced at Del Mar. California is beautiful. Enjoy hearing about your summer adventures.
      with love, Elizabeth

  12. / Reply

    Dear Judy.It’s been a very stormy day here Glesni has been trying to shelter Tegid frpm the wind.The nest is taking a battering.W7 is managing to eat a bit slowly her foot must be painful.I wish they could help her but same as the Dyfi it’s impossible.So sad.Goodnight God bless you LM PC HT Cap Hercules Frank Bentley and all the sweeties.Love and hugs SheenaX

    • / Reply

      Dear Sheena:

      Feel so bad for the little ospreys that are injured. As Max said, Bald Eagles are nursed back to health and then released. Wonder why the Dyfi doesn’t intervene. Do they feel that human intervention will make it less possible for the birds to survive in the wild once, and if, they are healed? Goodnight. Love and Hugs, JB, LM, PC, HT, Cap, Herc, Frank, Bentley and all the Sweeties

  13. / Reply

    I am sorry that the contest is limited to people who do social media. I know nothing about instantgram and wish I had a way to enter the contest. It’s just not fair. Not everyone does that stuff, I feel I am being discriminated against!

  15. / Reply

    Dear Mama Z, COZ, ZI and DC:

    Goodnight and sleep well. Happy Dreams. Love all of you so much. Hugs, JB

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

  16. / Reply

    August 4 Cherokee Devotional

    A Cherokee elder once commented that it was not the things of the world that gave him peace, but the rustle of sycamore leaves, smoke from a campfire, and an owl in the nighttime. As he leaned back in perfect peace, he sang in his native tongue about the “little people” who kept him company. The “little people” may come from Cherokee folklore, but we all have little people in our minds to keep us company. For most, these “little people” are created by thought, memory and a touch of whimsy. Whatever comforts us in our minds and helps us avoid worry and fear, opens our deeper being to peace. We dare not entertain thoughts of malice but only sweet thought, so that sometime we may entertain angels unaware.

    I have seen that in any great undertaking it is not enough for a man to depend simply upon himself.
    -Lone Man (Isna-La-Wica), Teton Sioux

  17. / Reply

    Dear Kathy.A lot of “the little people” keep me company too!And they cheer me up.Weather has improved slightly today still a few showers but the wind has eased.Tegid was being fed late last night by mum.She looks ready for her long journey now.T7 has eaten well this morning they are monitoring the situation as long as she can fly and eat they are happy.She is a determined bird.It was sad about the stabbing of an American lady last night in Russell Square,London.They say it was more likely to be mental health issues with the attacker but IS are celebrating so…
    The chief whip was chatting with Larry yesterday and telling him the Cabinet office are thinking of getting a cat and Larry likes the name Cromwell!Larry said Dave wanted to call him Winston.Poor Dave has been photographed in his £225 Bermuda shorts and he is quite flabby!Sam Cam’s bikini only cost £9.
    There are still 3 cats missing from Ty-Nant South Wales police accept the strength of feeling amongst people but they can only charge them with criminal damage because cats are deemed as property???They had stolen the cats to be used as bait for dog fighting!!How sick is that?Fubu has raised enough money to pay his bills I think.No more news yet.The 1st donutcratic conbenshun has begun and everyone is waiting to hear who Fibb’s running mate will be.We will gets news on MNN and there are plenty of doughnuts for everyone.Phoenix got a lot of storms and rain last night but Zoe seems to have escaped the worst of the weather although she did get a baff!!Did you hear about the family from Monmouth, East Wales who won £61 million on the Euro lottery?She had been out in the US having life saving cancer surgery and phoned her daughter to buy a ticket because she felt lucky.I usually buy a ticket when there is a roll over but didn’t notice this time.Have a great Friday eve.Love and hugs to you,kisses for Angel Holly,Nikko and Sugar.SheenaXOXO

  18. / Reply

    Dear Sheena,

    I remember when I was a kid there was a Disney movie, Darby O’Gill and the Little People. Thought of that right away when I read today’s Devotional. That’s good your weather is better. Man, Tegid will be on his own pretty soon. Godspeed, Glesni, when the time comes. So glad that T7 has eaten well. Yes, sad about that American woman. A cat companion would be good for Larry! Wow, quite a price difference between the shorts and the bikini! The whole Ty-Nant situation makes me sick. Poor Fubu…still has to battle on. Sounds like Fibbs’ conbenshun will be a lot more positive than the other two we just went through! Sounds like they had bad weather within a mile of Zoe. That’s way too close for comfort! Congratulations to the Euro lottery winner! Sounds like the winnings will come in handy for her and she is so deserving. Happy Friday Eve! Love and hugs from me, kisses from Angel Holly, Nikko and Sugar. Kathy XOXO

  19. / Reply

    Brooklyn Bobby by Frankel out of Balance a half sister to the famous Zenyatta will make his debut in a maiden at Saratoga on Saturday.The mile and 1/16th will be on turf.Frankel’s first US runner.Good luck to Brooklyn Bobby.Joel Rosario rides.Sheena

    • / Reply

      Dear Sheena,

      Yes, thanks for this news. Good luck and safe racing to Brooklyn Bobby and JR at Saratoga on Saturday. Hope all horses and riders have safe trips in their races, too.

      Hugs and Love

    • / Reply

      Dear Sheena:

      Thanks for this info. Will make sure I listen to the live audio of Race 1 on Saturday. Wow, great pedigree. Godspeed.

      Like his daddy, he’s named after Bobby Frankel who was born in Brooklyn, NY. Too cute! Love and Hugs, JB

  20. / Reply

    Dear Zenyatta Family,
    Has anyone ever seen photos of Zenny as a foal? Would love to see some of her ‘youngster’ days. Hope everyone has a good Thursday. with love, Elizabeth

    • / Reply

      Dear Sophia,

      Thanks so much for posting this link. This is a great article — I got misty-eyed just reading some of it! Yes, Charlotte and Valegro are absolutely incredible. A perfect in-synch team “extraordinaire”. They are indeed beautiful together.

      Wishing the Best of Luck to them in Rio, also!

      Cheers and Hugs

    • / Reply

      Dear Sophia.I have always cried watching Charlotte and Blueberry.They are as one when performing.He is setting down well in Rio.It will be sad to see him retire but it’s always best to leave the stage with the audience wanting more.Sheena

    • / Reply

      Dear Sophia:

      Thank you for sharing this very interesting and informative article on this brilliant horse and rider. Godspeed to them. Love and Hugs, JB

  22. / Reply

    Yet another beautiful gift from the generous Neil Latham! His portrait of Zenny is the most moving photo of a horse that I’ve ever seen…. Good luck to everybody who takes part in the Instagram contest! May the winner treat her prize like the work of art that it is…

    • / Reply

      Dear BGG:

      Wow, a lot involved to get them safely on their way and back. Godspeed; safe and sound all. Love and Hugs, JB

  24. / Reply

    The Tale of Zenyatta is Worth Hearing Again and Again
    By GENE WILLIAMS Del Mar Notes Thursday, August 4th, 2016
    John Shirreffs calls it his Camelot, those days from late 2007 to late 2010 when he was the keeper of a flame that burned so brightly that it set the Thoroughbred racing world aglow with enthusiasm not seen since the sport’s Triple Crown heydays of Secretariat, Affirmed and Seattle Slew.
    Referencing Camelot always triggers this: “One shining moment.” In John’s Camelot it was “one shining moment after another shining moment after another …” You know what’s coming. Those multiple moments revolved around the great race mare Zenyatta – 20 in all.
    Along the way she won three Eclipse Awards as best older female in America, was acclaimed Horse of the Year in 2010, as well, and became the first – and still only – female to win the Breeders’ Cup Classic (2009). And during that time, she ran off 19 straight victories. In her final race, her attempt to repeat as Classic champion, she fell a head short after another of her signature dashes from last place. Even the loss, Shirreffs said, could have been one of her best races.
    https://www.dmtc.com/media/news/the-tale-of-zenyatta-is-worth-hearing-again-and-again-644
    This is a exceptional interview article.
    Well worth reading the entire piece.
    BGG

    • / Reply

      Dear BGG:

      Great article; thanks for sharing. Loved the comparison to Sinatra; “she did it her way”. Too cute.

    • / Reply

      Dear BGG,

      This is certainly a great article! Really well written, and as writer, Gene Williams, says in the title, “. . . worth hearing again and again”. Amen.

      Thanks for posting.

      Hugs and Love

    • / Reply

      ‘Nice And Smooth’: Songbird Impresses In Thursday Morning Work
      by Paulick Report Staff | 08.04.2016 | 8:22am
      Undefeated champion Songbird turned in a sharp five-furlong work at Saratoga Thursday morning.
      The Daily Racing Form’s Mike Welsch timed the 3-year-old daughter of Medaglia d’Oro in 1:00.65 for the five furlongs. Welsch also had the filly covering the first three eighths in 36.75 seconds; Songbird covered the last quarter in 23.90 seconds.
      It was Songbird’s first workout since her victory in the G1 Coaching Club American Oaks July 24.
      “This was a really nice and smooth work,” trainer Jerry Hollendorfer told the DRF. “I’m very pleased.”
      http://www.paulickreport.com/news/thoroughbred-racing/nice-smooth-songbird-impresses-thursday-morning-work/

  26. / Reply

    Dear Judy.Glaslyn have decided not to intervene at the moment W7 is eating and able to fly but they will help if she falls to the ground.Hopefully she will heal.A friend tagged me on FB tonight a story about a TB mare found at a kill pen.She was helping a pony at the time but had to go back to the mare.Her tattoo had been cut out of lip her mouth is a mess.It has been reported to the jockey club and they hope to identify her.She is now at the New Bolton Center getting the best of care.They give their all on the track is this the way we treat them.Goodnight God bless you LM PC HT Cap Hercules Frank Bentley and all the sweeties.Love and hugs SheenaX

    • / Reply

      Dear Sheena:

      Glad to hear that the little Osprey is eating and flying. Hope she continues to do well.

      Oh, that poor mare. Thank God she’s in a safe place now. She’s one of the lucky ones. Goodnight. Love and Hugs, JB, LM, PC, HT, Cap, Herc, Frank, Bentley and all the Sweeties

    • / Reply

      Notice how clever the two young ospreys who escaped were. One hunkered down to blend with the nest, while the other flew off for the first time. This is the instinct to survive kicking in. One osprey parent tried to protect the chicks but he or she was no match for that eagle.

      • / Reply

        Dear Max.Ah,we see this every year when the chicks get ringed.Thanatosis It’s called I think.Glesni and Monty circle the nest.I have often wondered why they don’t try and attack the team.Maybe they realise they mean no harm??Sheena

  28. / Reply

    Neil Latham’s book has immortalized Zenyatta for those both inside and outside the sport, and in a strange way, I feel it validates how those of us who love this mare like no other and see her as the otherworldly creature that she is. We are not crazy.

    What I most appreciate about Latham’s work is, HE fell in love with Zenyatta and became just as besotted as the rest of us. Through his work he has forever raised her to the heights of Mount Olympus. Through his lens, she has been elevated to the status of a cultural icon not just among those who are horse racing fans, but her sentient being now is accessible for all to see and enjoy.

    Thank you, Mr. Latham.

    • / Reply

      Great photos. Like the ones of the foals. Secretariat looks superb. I’m thinking of getting that photo of Dan. As for Big D, the caption says that he’s being led. To me it looks like Big D is doing all of the leading.

      • / Reply

        Dear Max:

        Big D has the groom very well trained. He leads and the groom cooperates. Ha, ha! Love and Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Dear Judy B.,

      Great slide show. Thanks for sharing this. Love the photo of Secretariat, as well as the one of Genuine Risk and foal. Of course, the one of “the most interesting horse in the world” is so artistically exquisite. Just goes to show the Chestnut Club is very special!

      Hugs and Love

  30. / Reply

    Dear Mama Z, COZ, ZI and DC:

    Goodnight. Hope all of you are keeping cool and comfy. COZ, thinking of you and hoping you are doing well. Love all of you so much. Hugs, JB

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

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