How incredible. You know, there were times where I felt so disappointed about the way this mare was campaigned by her connections. Then I watch races like this, and I don't feel quite so cheated. She was remarkable, I don't care what anyone says. I see where some of the criticism is warranted - she didn't beat much after that outstanding 2008 season - but it's the WAY she did it. She COULD HAVE been the greatest HORSE of all time if given the chance. But even so, she was something truly special.
@stanleyusher6194 She didn't care for the kickback in her face, so she refused to exert herself in the first quarter mile and fell disastrously far behind. That's got nothing to do with Smith. It does have something to do with her not being trained for the race conditions, though. To me, if you're going to "hang" the loss on someone, it's probably Shirreffs.
Anyone who thinks blame is a better horse than Zenyatta is lying to themselves because of their a) hatred of west coast racing (aka bias) or b) just doesn't know anything about what great horses are. Zenyatta was a great horse. Blame was a good horse. You know on this very day when Zenyatta ran down the very game Switch, Blame was wired by Haynesfield in the JCGC. Great horses don't get beat like that. Zenyatta would have CRUSHED that JCGC. Haynesfield didn't have an ounce of energy at 1/8
Never thought I'd see a horse like Zenyatta come around. She knew how to put on a show, and it was such a thrill to see her race in person. I don't think I've ever been to a race(s) where the crowd is uniformly behind one horse, but Zenyatta made that happen, and she knew it too, I'll never forget her goose-step spanish walk dance, or the thrill of seeing her sweep around the field and fly to the wire. She was one of a kind. Can't wait to see her foal, and glad she's enjoying her retirement.
@gamesgreyhound Ginger Punch, Cocoa Beach, Music Note, Switch, Tough Tiz's Sis, Romance is Diane, Carriage Trail, Santa Teresita, Sealy Hill, Life is Sweet, Double Trouble and Hystericalady are all Grade 1 winning females beaten by Zenyatta. Her Ladies Classic win was the 2nd fastest in the history of the race.
why oh why have i never heard of this horse until about 2 weeks ago ????? just as im about to follow her career , i hear she's retired. Major Bummer !!
zenyatta brought personality and class to horse racing. I surely was "alive" during her races. i wish her well in her breeding program and hope she bears a quick colt with stamina!
Rags to Riches' win over the great Curlin (Preakness and future BCC champion), to become the first filly to win Belmont in 102 years, is one of the greatest single feats by a female, and better than what Zenyatta did at the Breeders. The great mare Goldikova has beaten a lot more males than Zen, and has so far won THREE Breeders Cup races in a row, all against males. Zenyatta was fantastic, but there have been greater TBs in the last ten years who achieved more on the track.
Where was Zenyatta in the TC races of 07? - hiding in California racing fillies half her size. That's how she got 18 in a row. Then she barely beat Gio Ponti (Gio who?!) in 09 and lost to Blame in 2010, another mediocre horse compared to 21st century greats like Tiznow and Ghostzapper. Tiznow is the true American hero of the Breeders Cup, fighting off the best Europe had to offer in 2000 and 2001.That horse, along with Smarty Jones, Curlin and Ghostzapper are the best of this century.
I love watchin her switch gears..You can see it in every one of her races. Her butt is twice as big as everyone elses too...Its like comparing rear ends on a civic and vette....lmao
@gamesgreyhound Blame didn't beat her on her best surface. It was his best (and only) surface, and his favorite track. I'm not going to bother arguing anything else, because with someone like you it's useless. I just wanted to point out at least one area where your obviously wrong.
As a sports fan, I've been to a World Series game 7, a Stanly Cup final, Tiger's 3rd round at the 2008 US Open, An NBA Finals Game 7, The Rose Bowl and a Super Bowl. My greatest sports fan moment with always be watching Zenyatta run down her outmatched opposition in person. None of those other events can touch the special feeling you got when you saw Zenyatta run.
Switch just won her 2nd gr.1 race in a little over a month, taking the Santa Monica. She had some class going into the Lady's Secret, beating champion Blind Luck at the Lady's Secret distance of 8.5 furlongs at Hollywood Park in a gr.2 stakes. However, Switch's recent efforts have proven beyond doubt that in winning the Lady's Secret, Zenyatta had to run down a real quality filly. And Zenyatta had to do it at a serious tactical disadvantage with such a slow pace.
@jhordanian No offence but the standard of fillies and horses in general has been really poor in america for a few years now apart from Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta. I know this because a filly who couldnt win an all weather handicap off 77 in uk ran close to Zenyatta, cant even remember the fillys name......tells its own story.....
@dessiesdoneit She's not done by a long shot....she'll win a lot more G1s. And she'll be a player in the BC next year, so bring your best from across the pond. See how "low quality" Switch is.
Alright u listen and listen good. Zenyatta is the best and always will be the best race horse of the 21st century. Blame is good but doesn't come near to Zenyatta's statis. Not saying Blame is bad but Zenyatta is just 10x better. Don't ever call her "suckyatta" ever again. If ur going to call her that just start calling Blame Lame. If that's the road ur going down.
@gamesgreyhound We already have moved on. Now we're enjoying her Eclipse accolades. Now we'll follow her foals in the future. Here's hoping that they get Afleet Alex in there with her.
@gamesgreyhound Blame, the same horse that Haynesfield, practically dead at the wire, beat soundly in the JCGC. Have you ever seen Zenyatta run a race like that in her TWENTY race career? Not a single missed effort on her part. Blame's connections WISH he was as good as her. Not even close.
@Kostly -It was Blames first go EVER at 1 1/4 after a long layoff. How about you smarten up, and stop talking like you actually know something. He is a Breeders cup champion just like her. As for this GamesGreyhound character....Grow up jackass.
Anybody who does not like what zenyatta did is not a horse racing fan, she was one of the best ever, lets hope her babies can carry on her legacy, bottom line we have witnessed over the past couple of years two of the best fillies ever in zenyatta and goldikova,
Let's not forget that at her last race Zenyatta was the oldest horse and yet she only lost by a mere hand against the younger males.
Rachel Alexandra would have been allowed at the BC, yet her owners didn't dare to show up. They had the opportunity to race Rachel against Zenyatta later on, again, they didn't show up.
Rachel is a good filly, no question about that, but her owners knew Zenyatta would just run her down so they simply didn't want to risk it.
@gamesgreyhound First of all, we arent talking about Personal Ensign, so thats irrelevant. And second, Zenyatta lost 1 race in her career. Tell me... how many has Blame lost? Dumb shit. And third, as you call yourself a person of "superior intelligence", realize what your doing at the moment. Arguing in the comment section of a youtube video. Trying, and failing, to come up with what only you could think of as an "insult". Yeah, that's superior intelligence alright.
@gamesgreyhound "overgrown mule" huh?? Well further proof your claim of you being of higher intelligence is a crock, but karma definitely did reward her, it rewarded her with 19 straight, and allowed her a tremendous run in the Classic, from 30 lengths back at one point to miss by a mere head. So indeed for bringing so much attention to horse racing which desperately needed the media and attention, Karma indeed rewarded Zenyatta
@gamesgreyhound A person of higher intelligence would have been able to come up with a better name if they disliked Zenyatta. Yours is just flat out lazy and stupid so you failed at that. Second, a person of higher intelligence would resort to such cheap, immature, childish name-calling and insulting, they'd actually have come up with legit arguments and back them up rather than the childish jargon. Third they would know it's Personal Ensign, not "Persona Ensign" so yeah you've failed your claim
@gamesgreyhound ...the overgrown mule?? She's worth more than you and the rest of your family combined....even if you include all those kids you fathered with your mother
@gamesgreyhound ....you sound a little bitter because a horse is worth more than you overrated, useless, bitter life.....commit suicide on your webcam.
@gamesgreyhound ...LMAO....on this day he finished ahead of her...all the great ones get beat and this was Zenyatta's greatest race....she loses NOTHING with this performance...another dumbass who doesn't know the first thing about racing.
luck doesn't win you 19 consecutive races. they're both great horses, but theres no question that if zenyatta would have gotten out of the pack sooner, she would have edged out blame. it would'nt have been a blow out, but she would have won.
I thought she was overated.. But then she ran a huge race in the Breederscup..A race she should have won.. If she was closer to the pace she would have won by about 5.. Her races were so close because she was only running 1.18 miles.. a 1.1.4 she would have won by a lot..
Gamesgreyhound is bitter because Rachel lost 3 of 5 this year and did not even have one G1 win. Rachel Alexandra's distance limitations were finally spelled out to even her most partisan fans when she lost to an obscure optional claimer named 'Persistently' in her only attempt at 10F. Consider this: Persistently covered the 1 1/4 miles in 2:04.49 and Rachel ended up losing by a full length. She earned a 93 BSF compared to Zenyatta's 111 BSF (if you believe in Beyer's methodology)
@LeeAnne151 *rolls eyes* duh ur gonna say that ur a Zenyatta fan.... I'm at this video for mi mom lol and as one of few not biased I'll say Zenyatta is a beast (meaning really good) but beating Blame? watch the finish he had her 100% another stride mi ass they were going the EXACT same speed. Blame was better then Z on that day.... but even if u wanna argue that I'd still take Goldikova and especially Personal Ensign over Z. Z the queen heck no. personal ensign is the best period.
@4444IAmLegend I'm a fan of all racing have been a fan of racing since before you were born I'm sure....Zenyatta did pass him with her next stride there are photos and videos. An ass kicking is not barely hanging on it is winning pulling away by daylight and that Blame did not do. He was at his home track and she was pelted with 40 * clods of dirt and clearly pulling back from it and still almost won.
Personal Ensign was indeed a great mare and that is not in question.
@LeeAnne151 I don't agree besides u can wut if all u want.... take personal ensign's final race as EXACTLY wut I'm talking about.... that's a win Zenyatta lost.... I'm not hating or w/e just stating a fact heck I count man o wars loss as losing and it might just be me but his jockey having him face the wrong way in the starting gate and starting 20 lengths back and losing bi a nose is a heck of a lot better excuse for losing then "would have won in X amount of feet"
@4444IAmLegend. Check your reading comprehension. The discussion is that Zenyatta did NOT get her ASS KICKED by Blame since she lost by a short head not that she didn't lose. She was going faster with every stride and he was not. The icy dirt in her face earlier really bothered her.
Man O'War didn't lose by a nose either it was half a length and there were no starting gates then just a tape barrier, he was being circled. Best horse does not always win.
@4444IAmLegend "Would have won in X amount of feet" discounts the rest of her run, she fell 20 back, and dealt with all that dirt kickback, and fought through it. Yes she poked her nose in front of Blame the jump after the finish line, but she too had to deal with factors she never dealt with before. Now with Man O War, there were no starting gates, as you say, just a line, with webbing in front, but even if they had, I find it very implausible they'd put a horse in the gate the wrong way.
@4444IAmLegend If they were going the same speed, she would have lost by more than a nose, he would have held the couple lengths he had on her at the 1/8th. Personal Ensign is indeed a great mare too, she should have been HOY 1988, had she run in the Classic, as incredible as her Distaff run is, she belonged in the Classic (the Whitney was underwhelming for me) she was in the driver's seat for HOY, but her main competition came in and took it. Terrific race mare, in my top 5, but Zen for me.
@d9y8l7a6n5 u misunderstand. I'm talking the very end.... towards the end it is very clear that Zen is gaining ground. I'm talking the last few strides before the finish line.... same speed neither horse gained an inch on the other. besides as Ive said before "would have won in X amount of feet" doesn't hold for me. as for Personal Ensign 5th.... really? I saw a professionals list of his 50 best filly/mares and he did pros and cons for all horses PE's was only 13 starts. 5th? really?
@LeeAnne151 that, and if quality road wouldnt have stalled her about 3/16 of a mile left, she surley wouldnt have been beat. but win or lost, she ranks up to one of the best, in my opinion she is THE best, and got me into horseracing.
wow an overgrown mule? really? you call the horse names because your mad about what one of her fans said? thats really tough, calling an animal names. good job tough guy.
Zenyatta is no doubt the better horse then Blame. Sure she didn't race much in 2010, or didn't race against what you would call "tough" competition, but thats no excuse. She still won every race by what 2-8 lengths? I mean come one. All of Blames races were a tight battle to the wire where with a photo finish you could see Blame maybe had a tiny nose in front. You make a match race, Zenny against Blame, Zenny would win. No Doubt. Blame may be a good horse, But Zenyatta is a great horse!!!!!!!!!!
@gamesgreyhound I'd hardly say he "kicked Zenyatta's ass" if he won by 6 lengths or so then maybe, but he lost by a diminishing head. Zenyatta ran the best race coming from so far back, but Blame had the cleaner trip and thus got the jump and got it. Zen ran the better race though, but to say he kicked her ass is a gross overstatement
@gamesgreyhound Wow, I really feel sorry for you...you missed the unique opportunity to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime-kind of mare. You probabaly know nothing about this sport
@lengua92 He doesn't...just someone who is miserable himself and can't stand to see the joy and excitement this horse brought to many....even in defeat nothing can be taken away from Zenyatta....be thankful you're not gamesgreyhound.....
@gamesgreyhound actually that was not the same way. the traffic isnt what messed her up, it was the decision to go inside. she started her run then mike smith stopped it for about 1 second and then started he started it again. that was the difference.
if he would have kept her run going clean to the outside, she would have won.
@gamesgreyhound wow your just a east coaster that hates on zenyatta.
u know nothing about horse racing.
NO horse ever kicked zenyattas ass. zenyatta had a bad trip, oh well. and still passed up all those horses in the end. that was her greatest ever stretch run. too bad she started late because she was blocked on the turn. Blame did good and didnt fold, but zenyatta was going to pass him up. no doubt
@gamesgreyhound how did he kick her ass zenyatta is a much better horse than blame who was a very lucky winner due to an horrendous ride by mike smith
The name Zenyatta will be remembered long after Blame's. Blame is a great horse and he deserved to win. But when it comes to being a star,....Zenyata does'nt just walk,trot and run, like most horses. She puts on a show.
@cmcgrath10 Oh yeah, plenty....Zenyatta ran the best race of her life overcoming 20 lengths and just missing....nothing wrong with that...and I got to be there and got pictures taken with her and Goldikova....what did you do? Sex with Mom that afternoon?
@JR08620 Totally agree m8, the screaming pregnant women at the track have turned it into a circus and they know nothing about racing. These same ppl come onto racing videos in the ultimate act of ignorance saying she is the best ever.
"She dosent go on when she hits the front" shes all out to actually get to the front 3 strides before the line against poor fillies.
Most overhyped horse in history and i dont even care if she wins another Classic, the race is almost as weak as last years
Zenyatta can be criticized for alot of things from her naysayers. But they would have a hard time calling her "boring." Even with races where she at 1/9, she keeps those races entertaining. More entertaining than Mr. Ed. The comparisons to a rollercoaster are valid because she can gives us a thrill of a lifetime. Like GOLIATH @ Magic Mountain. She is a horse not for the faint of heart, but for the thrill-seekers. It is all about taking that "leap of faith" with her this weekend.
The best part about this GREAT HORSE is she never gone all out. Look at all of her victories she cursing or even better she being gear down. There no dispute Zenyatta is THE BEST HORSE EVER. I hit my first pick 3 on her win in the vanity. That day I said to my buddy this is the best horse line start here. Well a year ladder and RA busted out and she still winning like alway. After the BC classic maybe just maybe they will finaling give her horse of the year. She should be 3 x hoty.
Well folks looks like we're not so lucky this year. We got 5-2 last year, and this year if the morning line stays put we'll be getting 8-5, not bad still, but I didn't think she'd be that low. All the best to you Zenny, and I will be seeing you in Louisville!!! First time to Churchill, so excited! This BC is going to be epic!!
I don't understand what is so hard to grasp for Z naysayers? She has maintained a winning form for 35 straight months. What is so hard to SEE with her? She is beautiful, intelligent, talented, accomplished, and fan-friendly. All the right qualities in an equine athlete. And yet, some people want to look for somebody better when she is right in front of us. Open your eyes and believe. You don't need "20/20" vision to SEE it.
When Zenyatta ran in the Santa Margarita, I remember it being cloudy and cold that day. Then when she stepped on the track, the clouds started to separate and the sun was shining on the track. I think that's how the weather will be like this Sat. With 10% chance of showers, that should be no prob for her or anyone attending the track. Should be a cold day, but not a messy one. Tomorrow (5am PST) is when she leaves CA and heads to KY. Get those cameras ready.
Amen, Kostly. I know how it feels to be jaded toward Zenyatta. I was not a fan of this amazing horse early on. I know how it felt to be skeptic. But once I saw the light, she made a believer out of me and I love being a Zen convert now. Too much fun on this side. I hope Mike Smith has a take no prisoners approach this Saturday and we truly see something special from her.
@sweetepnoy a great piece. Lots of tears of joy for me on that one. I'm going to savor every last bit until she retires and she'll be legendary in all of our hearts. We know we got to witness something phenomenal and beautiful. Thankfully we'll have youtube to always revisit her incredible run.
People can try to act like a "wise guy" and try to defy her because she is the current pop sensation. Perhaps it pays off with whoever they like in next week's Classic, but realize playing against her hasn't been all that profitable. I'm not going for Zenyatta because she is the fastest on paper or she beat the best competition. I'm going for her because she is the most genuine.
@slowhorse19 lol please don't make me laugh. she is a hard core closer! CLOSERS ARE NOT SPEED HORSES! yea she slow thats why she won 19 for 19. their running on dirt for the BC she runs better on dirt than scynthetic.
beyer figures are garbage, the horse races on all heart. switch is a very nice filly who could go with the boys as well, shes no slouch. obv the guy who says shes slow doesnt know a whole lot about horse racing, ill gladly own any "slow" horse who wins 19 in a row in all graded company
@snapoutofit11 Switch ran a helluva race and a field of males would have had a hard time catching that stretch run by her. Zenyatta is a horse of destiny.
On paper, Zenyatta has no chance to win the Breeders' Cup Classic. She's too slow, and she has spent much of year narrowly beating ordinary fillies and mares. Really tough, fast males like Blame, Quality Road and Lookin at Lucky should thrash her. As the favorite in the Classic, she could well be the biggest underlay in Breeders' Cup history. All of which I am going to ignore. I'm picking her. - Bill Finley, ESPN
@sweetepnoy well we dont know how much zenyatta is giving to us. she could just be lolly gagging around and not trying. we'll see how it all pans out. she runs better on dirt than synthetic
@Horses4ever8 HAHAH add in the CD home stretch and that is a formula for disaster for the rest of the field. Who can hold off her finishing onslaught? No one. Not a single horse in the world. I guarantee you that.
Zenyatta is one of the biggest freak in horse racing history and one of the all-time greats while Rachel A. is the biggest overrated hype in horse racing history.
That's the intangible Zenyatta brings to the table, and it's bigger than Beyer figures, company lines and everything else her critics might judge her on. She just wins. You cannot argue with 19 straight, no matter how weak some of the fields she has been facing might have been. It is an historic accomplishment, something no other top-level horse has done. Corny as it might sound, she has a big heart, refuses to lose, knows where the wire is, whatever. In the Classic, that's what is going to get
I think it will be a miracle if Zen can pull out another BC Classic. I almost wish they would just let her retire and make wonderful Zen babies. Just want her to stay safe and healthy for a long, long time. She has already given me 19 heart attacks! LOL She's certainly never boring.
@CoconutThoroughbred Have a great friend, top equine surgeon - she just told me this today: "Zenyatta runs like Secretariat. Hangs in the back and then drops the hammer" True words!
Slowhorse19 is just trolling. Wants attention. Probably another douchebag with multiple accounts and hiding because a Sweetie like me PWNED him. *yawn* Zenyatta is going to make these males look like her little bitches. About 50 years from now, people will fondly remember Zen's success more than Slowhorse19's meaningless contributions in this life. Andy Beyer, is that you prick?
The thing with Zenyatta haters is they think because of this one last race, people will stop loving this horse if she loses. Wrong again. The many fans of Zen love her "unconditionally." Win or lose. Their love is not on the basis of what might happen next. Haters cling onto whatever hot horse they think is great. They come and go and they win AND lose. Admiring them on a "conditional" level. Fair weather/bandwagon fans.
slowhorse19 - Obviously you are a casual observer and not a racing fan. Zenyatta has won on the dirt, and John Sherriffs thinks she runs better on it than on polytrack. Did you watch the Classic last year? You must think Gio Ponti, Twice Over, and Summer Bird suck. Twice Over has gone on to win some Group 1's in England (Euro horses tend to outclass the U.S. runners). Zenyatta won easily in her only start on dirt this year (small field, didn't beat much) but don't think she'll fold in Classic.
i love how slowhorse 19 is so stupid...have you any evidence to back up what your saying, or are you just an idiot who happened to watch this one race and read some negative comments? Or perhaps even a bitter rachel fan? On what grounds is she slow? She's won all of her races, including one which no other female has ever accomplished and only 3 others dared to try...and yet you say she's "slow" hmmmmm, ya what exactly is your IQ?
But... with the weather on Nov 6th looking brighter by the day, I believe Zenyatta will win going away. If not, she gives us one helluva thrill one last time like the Drama Queen she is and the finish will be tight win or lose. As long as she doesn't lose ground in the stretch, she will catch her prey like a cheetah catching a gazelle or a giant tsunami wiping out a beach town. Photo finish or romp, the result at the end seems to always be the same for her.
Zenyatta is a 6.5YO MARE and running in the toughest race of her career on a surface she only twice on before. If this happens to be her lone loss in her career, it wouldn't be the end of the world. She has 19 other races that can make me smile. I can fully accept the defeat to MALES the same way many horses like Cigar, Skip Away, Curlin, and Rachel Alexandra lost in their final start.
As long as Zenyatta is within 6-7 lengths behind early on, she will win the race going away. Her kick is far more potent than Street Cry or Street Sense. Cynics can keep doubting her as if you were trying to "outsmart" the rest of us because of your smartass "defiance." In a sport where 1 out of 3 favorites win, you simply can't outsmart the game. Better chance at winning learning to count cards in 21. Be alone in the dark for the rest of your miserable life if you can't appreciate a great mare
Quality Road ran his last 3/8ths in the Woodward over :38 secs. Zenyatta also ran a slow time in the AB, but she closed about ONE full second faster in that race basically "cantering." I think Zenyatta will relish dirt the same way Street Sense relished Churchill after he lost on synth a race prior. Honestly, I think Zen will win the BCC going away. She will produce those sub-36s again. Quality Road is the Hard Spun of the field. Sloppy track and then it becomes anyone's race.
Lookin At Lucky, Quality Road, and Blame may be the toughest opponents Zenyatta will ever face. Guess what? Zenyatta will be the toughest opponent they will ever face too. Doesn't matter what surface these colts "prefer." Much tougher than Summer Bird, Regal Ransom, Misremembered, Musket Man, Sidney's Candy, Super Saver, Noble's Promise, and Vale of York. It can cut both ways.
@sweetepnoy I don't think she has much to fear from QR at the distance and under that pace scenario, nor Blame, who simply cannot close with her. I do think the BC rule, "beware the improving 3 year old" applies in spades here. Lookin at Lucky is a real danger because of his tactical speed and his great heart.
Only three things sure in this old world. Death, taxes, and Zenyatta. slowhorse19, you're vast knowledge of racing really comes shining through making a comment like that. LOL. She's the slowest 19 for 19 horse I ever saw. LOL.
@slowhorse19, Dream on buddy. This mare is much faster on conventional dirt than she is over synthetics. Look how many times on synthetics she's ran down whoever is leading on the wire. Then look at both of her Apple Blossom Handicap win's. In both starts at Oaklawn, she's not only caught her rivals. But also pulled 4 or 5 lengths clear of them as well. Lookin At Lucky is the only horse who isn't "iffy" at best to get 1-1/4 in the Classic. She'll dominate the males at Churchill Downs.
@slowhorse19 Zenyatta is hardly slow. She does what she has to to win, but when she needs to really run she can. She mowed down the boys last year in the BCC. And she's already ran and won on the dirt. If she loses the BCC, there's no shame in that. She's already solidified her status as a great and legend.
Jayham1970 - I was there too! It was incredible! I was right at the rail by the finish. I loved the crowd, they were so appreciative of her. She's such a superstar, showing off for her adoring fans. She is sure a special, unique horse.
Horshooer - I don't think she looked pregnant at all. Zenyatta was just playing it up for the crowd, like she always does. She waited until she wanted to catch Switch. And when she went it was with a burst that few horses could match. She was just playing.
Quality Road ran the last 3/8ths in 38.48 in the Woodward. I am not convinced he wins the 2010 BCC with a closing time like that. He is the one horse I believe will be an underlay and won't hit the board. Handicap it like the Ky Derby where closing splits are important. Zenyatta can run last 3/8ths under :36 seconds on mostly second gear.
I was actually there that day and saw that very race. It was absolutely FANTASTIC! Zenyatta has that specialness about her that comes along every so often. She wants to win and finds a way to do so: Kind of like Secretariat. Some horses have a uniqueness about them that touches the human heart, and she is one of them that does.
Why is it my heart pounds faster and faster EVERY time I watched the home stretch. I love both her and Rachel Alexandra. They help me rediscover why I love horses so much!!! :)
Zenyatta is a big gal. She is bigger than most colts. She CAN run on dirt. She always comes from behind, it's her speciality. And the distance in the Breeder Cup will benefit her. #GOZENYATTA!
Goldikova does not care for soft footing. The only state Goldi has ever raced in the U.S.A. is CA. Blame Pro-Ride, but California's weather was picture perfect each time and we got formful results esp on turf. With a storm, Borel may just end up winning alot of BC races that day. We may have a BC with 6-horse fields and no turf racing if a snow storm hits.
Zenyatta is the #1 reason why many people want to watch the Breeders' Cup this year. She is the one being marketed the most and the real reason for any attendance draw. I have at least 19 different reasons why this is the case, but it is the 20th question that she needs to answer which makes many people tune in. Scratch Zen, and the BC interest level goes down the toilet. She is the main star of the show. Start picking Calvin Borel in bad weather. More flukey results like Super Saver and Mine T
It looks like a storm is going to happen that week in CD. Bad news not only for the two biggest attractions in Zen and Goldi, but for almost everybody. When it rains or snows, it becomes anyone's ball game. Who knows how these horses react to it? I can envision several scratches from top horses and flukey results like what happened in the last two Ky Derbies.
@sweetepnoy I just checked it and shows "few showers" on friday and mostly clear with a 10% chance of rain with a high of 50 degrees. Hope it warms up some, but, looks like we're having a very chilly fall. Keep our fingers crossed on the weather.
“They say they are looking for stars to promote. ‘Where are our stars?’ they ask,” Shirreffs continued. “Here she is and then they seem to be looking for something better. The opportunity here is that (Zenyatta) is so unique.”
Whether Zenyatta breaks from post 1 or 14, her running-style should make it moot in the early going. If you asked me would Zen still have been great at ANY era or surface, I would say yes. Z's last 1/2 mile is close to sprinter speed. She can sustain a long run without losing focus or getting distracted from the crowd. Most horses may be great for "their" time. As time goes on, sometimes it longer holds up. Better in memory than reality. But Zenyatta is great for ANY era.
We know a calibur of Switch wouldn't be within 10 lengths from the BCC winner, but the same could be said about Haynesfield whom Blame finished 4 lengths behind. Blame and Zenyatta are much better than what their last prep may indicate. I don't think we've seen the best 2010 race of Zen yet. This reminds me of exactly year ago when experts thought she was tailing off. Lately, Zen is not for the faint of heart. For a $60K purchase, she has always worked to please her fans and prove her non-belie
@slowhorse19 You're such a moron you dont even realize her fav surface is dirt.John said it..Mike said it....Go listen to Mike E. Smith interview on his page...its called Talkin horses.Let him tell your dumbass...lmao.I dont think the horse said..I want to live in Cali and race on Poly...
Some people forget that NOT all synthetic tracks plays out the same. Hollywood plays out closest to dirt where speed can be dangerous. Del Mar is quirky, the least safest with slow early fractions. Santa Anita's Pro-Ride plays out like turf. But people also forget SA didn't originallly have Pro-Ride. It was Cushion which was more speed-favoring in early 2008 before the renovation. Z set the stakes record in the El Encino in that meet. 1:40+ for 8.5F after she caught the speed going under 1:35 f
Once Zenyatta starts to bring her head down and hits full stride, no horse in the country can repel her challenges. Gear after gear, once she hits the front, not a horse behind her will catch up because she is closing the fastest of them all. Look at all her prev races. Notice you never see another horse flying late and closing the gap for 2nd or 3rd. She is the greatest American closer since Forego based on accomplishments and one of the most popular closers since Silky Sullivan and Whirlaway.
I had to rewatch Street Cry's 2002 Foster and Street Sense's 2006 BCJ & 2007 Derby. Zenyatta has a more potent late-kick than either two and is far bigger. And to ones who think CD is speed-favoring sometimes, look at her OP wins. Both runaways and OP has a shorter stretch. I believe Z will love CD's long stretch. She can run over a mile and still close a final quarter in :23. Very fast on any surface. I hope she is a runaway winner on dirt again and Mike wakes the sleeping giant and go all-out!
Zen Bashers are upset that they didn't bet a paltry $2 win on the Queen when she won her maiden and paid $13.00. They then could have parlayed their winnings on her next 18 straight and and would have thirty thousand dollars and could have bought their lovely wives one of those nifty electric Nissan Leafs. Zen's 15,000-1 streak is like no other. Money talks!
I hope she wins the Breeder's Cup because it would be great attention for the sport, but anyone who knows anything about horse racing knows she will not. I think the bigger story of the Breeder's Cup should be on Goldikova. Going for her 3rd Breeder's Cup win. She is way better than Zenyatta!
Shirreffs on the thought of being disappointed if she loses her only race in her final race: “It’s not the end of the world (if she loses). Giving her the opportunity to achieve something that seems almost unattainable is more important.”
Shirreffs on running on dirt versus synthetic surfaces: “I think she prefers dirt. We didn’t have an opportunity to run her very often on dirt, but one of the things I always tell people about dirt vs. synthetics is that when horses run on dirt their toes really get into the track; their feet rotate so they can push off differently. It’s like when you get into a starting block on a track versus standing on the track flat-footed.”
@slowhorse19 As big a Zen as I am.... I have to admit she looked like she was 6 months pregnant in this one.... If she wants to run against the best guy horses in the world, she better tone up for it!! :/
@horshooer She lost over a hundred pounds when they took her to the apple blossom in 2010...they put extra weight on her before shipping her to churchill.
@horshooer if u read anything about the horse... she does just what it takes to win... because she knows how to win... watch her win the classic...AGAIN.
its normal to get goosbumps after watching this video, right?
MaDkOrNfLaKeS 1 month ago
man, that kick at 1:54..........it's like she has some sort of nitrus turbo that ignites when needed.
theatlantean3 4 months ago 3
How incredible. You know, there were times where I felt so disappointed about the way this mare was campaigned by her connections. Then I watch races like this, and I don't feel quite so cheated. She was remarkable, I don't care what anyone says. I see where some of the criticism is warranted - she didn't beat much after that outstanding 2008 season - but it's the WAY she did it. She COULD HAVE been the greatest HORSE of all time if given the chance. But even so, she was something truly special.
MissStarryDay 5 months ago
@MissStarryDay Secretariat still beats them all.
jalapeno0007 2 months ago
@jalapeno0007
Speaks volumes that your posting this on a Zenyatta video.
You have a little doubt there (of which one is best) ???
ROTFLMFAO!!!
europeracing 1 month ago
Smith got Zenyatta beat against Blame.......nuff said!
stanleyusher6194 5 months ago
@stanleyusher6194 She didn't care for the kickback in her face, so she refused to exert herself in the first quarter mile and fell disastrously far behind. That's got nothing to do with Smith. It does have something to do with her not being trained for the race conditions, though. To me, if you're going to "hang" the loss on someone, it's probably Shirreffs.
Venckman 2 months ago
Anyone who thinks blame is a better horse than Zenyatta is lying to themselves because of their a) hatred of west coast racing (aka bias) or b) just doesn't know anything about what great horses are. Zenyatta was a great horse. Blame was a good horse. You know on this very day when Zenyatta ran down the very game Switch, Blame was wired by Haynesfield in the JCGC. Great horses don't get beat like that. Zenyatta would have CRUSHED that JCGC. Haynesfield didn't have an ounce of energy at 1/8
Kostly 5 months ago
Never thought I'd see a horse like Zenyatta come around. She knew how to put on a show, and it was such a thrill to see her race in person. I don't think I've ever been to a race(s) where the crowd is uniformly behind one horse, but Zenyatta made that happen, and she knew it too, I'll never forget her goose-step spanish walk dance, or the thrill of seeing her sweep around the field and fly to the wire. She was one of a kind. Can't wait to see her foal, and glad she's enjoying her retirement.
d9y8l7a6n5 6 months ago
She is like secretariat but less lengths!!
MegaHorseracer 6 months ago
I miss her.
apajax6 6 months ago
She's going to go down in history with all the other great racers. =]
Jensine2000018023 7 months ago
@gamesgreyhound Ginger Punch, Cocoa Beach, Music Note, Switch, Tough Tiz's Sis, Romance is Diane, Carriage Trail, Santa Teresita, Sealy Hill, Life is Sweet, Double Trouble and Hystericalady are all Grade 1 winning females beaten by Zenyatta. Her Ladies Classic win was the 2nd fastest in the history of the race.
LeeAnne151 7 months ago
Listen to that crowd you will never hear a crowd like that again pulling for a horse!
josara825 7 months ago
Ruffian & Zenyattathe two worlds Amazing Queens of the race track !
HorseSlaughterSux 8 months ago
why oh why have i never heard of this horse until about 2 weeks ago ????? just as im about to follow her career , i hear she's retired. Major Bummer !!
stelomas10 9 months ago
The most touching moment was seeing Penny Chenery in the winner's circle.
sweetepnoy 10 months ago
zenyatta brought personality and class to horse racing. I surely was "alive" during her races. i wish her well in her breeding program and hope she bears a quick colt with stamina!
celicadetonator 10 months ago
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Rags to Riches' win over the great Curlin (Preakness and future BCC champion), to become the first filly to win Belmont in 102 years, is one of the greatest single feats by a female, and better than what Zenyatta did at the Breeders. The great mare Goldikova has beaten a lot more males than Zen, and has so far won THREE Breeders Cup races in a row, all against males. Zenyatta was fantastic, but there have been greater TBs in the last ten years who achieved more on the track.
SECby31 11 months ago
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Where was Zenyatta in the TC races of 07? - hiding in California racing fillies half her size. That's how she got 18 in a row. Then she barely beat Gio Ponti (Gio who?!) in 09 and lost to Blame in 2010, another mediocre horse compared to 21st century greats like Tiznow and Ghostzapper. Tiznow is the true American hero of the Breeders Cup, fighting off the best Europe had to offer in 2000 and 2001.That horse, along with Smarty Jones, Curlin and Ghostzapper are the best of this century.
SECby31 11 months ago
I love watchin her switch gears..You can see it in every one of her races. Her butt is twice as big as everyone elses too...Its like comparing rear ends on a civic and vette....lmao
205seeme 11 months ago
Zenyatta > you.
TOMMEENTSMAXDFAN 11 months ago
if zenyatta could talk she would say "kiss the hoff bitches"
cavalierfan1995 11 months ago
@gamesgreyhound Blame didn't beat her on her best surface. It was his best (and only) surface, and his favorite track. I'm not going to bother arguing anything else, because with someone like you it's useless. I just wanted to point out at least one area where your obviously wrong.
FireGirlG 11 months ago
another perfect day for the queen :]
Spritzer45 1 year ago 2
As a sports fan, I've been to a World Series game 7, a Stanly Cup final, Tiger's 3rd round at the 2008 US Open, An NBA Finals Game 7, The Rose Bowl and a Super Bowl. My greatest sports fan moment with always be watching Zenyatta run down her outmatched opposition in person. None of those other events can touch the special feeling you got when you saw Zenyatta run.
rusinrockt 1 year ago 4
@rusinrockt , I was there. You are right!
sscyphers 10 months ago
Switch just won her 2nd gr.1 race in a little over a month, taking the Santa Monica. She had some class going into the Lady's Secret, beating champion Blind Luck at the Lady's Secret distance of 8.5 furlongs at Hollywood Park in a gr.2 stakes. However, Switch's recent efforts have proven beyond doubt that in winning the Lady's Secret, Zenyatta had to run down a real quality filly. And Zenyatta had to do it at a serious tactical disadvantage with such a slow pace.
jhordanian 1 year ago 2
@jhordanian No offence but the standard of fillies and horses in general has been really poor in america for a few years now apart from Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta. I know this because a filly who couldnt win an all weather handicap off 77 in uk ran close to Zenyatta, cant even remember the fillys name......tells its own story.....
dessiesdoneit 1 year ago
@dessiesdoneit You think Switch is a low quality filly? HAHAHAHAH
Kostly 1 year ago
@Kostly I was refferring to St Trinians but I wouldnt say Switch was anything special either.
dessiesdoneit 1 year ago
@dessiesdoneit Switch is high quality....NEXT!
Kostly 1 year ago
@Kostly Well I can now understand the overrating of Zenyatta if America regards Switch as high quality....
interesting
dessiesdoneit 1 year ago
@dessiesdoneit She's not done by a long shot....she'll win a lot more G1s. And she'll be a player in the BC next year, so bring your best from across the pond. See how "low quality" Switch is.
Kostly 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound
Alright u listen and listen good. Zenyatta is the best and always will be the best race horse of the 21st century. Blame is good but doesn't come near to Zenyatta's statis. Not saying Blame is bad but Zenyatta is just 10x better. Don't ever call her "suckyatta" ever again. If ur going to call her that just start calling Blame Lame. If that's the road ur going down.
taylorlautnersexy123 1 year ago
@taylorlautnersexy123 LMFAO Suckyatta, she dosent suck, shes a good mare but that was funny
Id say she was the most overrated horse of the 21st century yes, the best? not by a long shot
dessiesdoneit 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound We already have moved on. Now we're enjoying her Eclipse accolades. Now we'll follow her foals in the future. Here's hoping that they get Afleet Alex in there with her.
Kostly 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound WOW! gamesgreyhound is clueless AND delusional! YAY!
Kostly 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound Blame, the same horse that Haynesfield, practically dead at the wire, beat soundly in the JCGC. Have you ever seen Zenyatta run a race like that in her TWENTY race career? Not a single missed effort on her part. Blame's connections WISH he was as good as her. Not even close.
Kostly 1 year ago
@Kostly -It was Blames first go EVER at 1 1/4 after a long layoff. How about you smarten up, and stop talking like you actually know something. He is a Breeders cup champion just like her. As for this GamesGreyhound character....Grow up jackass.
Nucleo85Torino 1 year ago
Anybody who does not like what zenyatta did is not a horse racing fan, she was one of the best ever, lets hope her babies can carry on her legacy, bottom line we have witnessed over the past couple of years two of the best fillies ever in zenyatta and goldikova,
2323chicubs 1 year ago
Let's not forget that at her last race Zenyatta was the oldest horse and yet she only lost by a mere hand against the younger males.
Rachel Alexandra would have been allowed at the BC, yet her owners didn't dare to show up. They had the opportunity to race Rachel against Zenyatta later on, again, they didn't show up.
Rachel is a good filly, no question about that, but her owners knew Zenyatta would just run her down so they simply didn't want to risk it.
september2233 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound First of all, we arent talking about Personal Ensign, so thats irrelevant. And second, Zenyatta lost 1 race in her career. Tell me... how many has Blame lost? Dumb shit. And third, as you call yourself a person of "superior intelligence", realize what your doing at the moment. Arguing in the comment section of a youtube video. Trying, and failing, to come up with what only you could think of as an "insult". Yeah, that's superior intelligence alright.
10littleturtle 1 year ago 18
@10littleturtle Hey really...how many races did Blame lost??
littledrawingfan 5 months ago
@gamesgreyhound "overgrown mule" huh?? Well further proof your claim of you being of higher intelligence is a crock, but karma definitely did reward her, it rewarded her with 19 straight, and allowed her a tremendous run in the Classic, from 30 lengths back at one point to miss by a mere head. So indeed for bringing so much attention to horse racing which desperately needed the media and attention, Karma indeed rewarded Zenyatta
d9y8l7a6n5 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound A person of higher intelligence would have been able to come up with a better name if they disliked Zenyatta. Yours is just flat out lazy and stupid so you failed at that. Second, a person of higher intelligence would resort to such cheap, immature, childish name-calling and insulting, they'd actually have come up with legit arguments and back them up rather than the childish jargon. Third they would know it's Personal Ensign, not "Persona Ensign" so yeah you've failed your claim
d9y8l7a6n5 1 year ago
you go JimSpoor!
10littleturtle 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound not much of a life then eh skippy?
JimSpoor 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound ...speaking from experience there, gayhound?
JimSpoor 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound...Blame won on a track he's 4 of 5 on so don't go using that comparison....do you even know which end the oats go in?
JimSpoor 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound ...the overgrown mule?? She's worth more than you and the rest of your family combined....even if you include all those kids you fathered with your mother
JimSpoor 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound ....you sound a little bitter because a horse is worth more than you overrated, useless, bitter life.....commit suicide on your webcam.
JimSpoor 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound ...LMAO....on this day he finished ahead of her...all the great ones get beat and this was Zenyatta's greatest race....she loses NOTHING with this performance...another dumbass who doesn't know the first thing about racing.
JimSpoor 1 year ago
luck doesn't win you 19 consecutive races. they're both great horses, but theres no question that if zenyatta would have gotten out of the pack sooner, she would have edged out blame. it would'nt have been a blow out, but she would have won.
10littleturtle 1 year ago
I thought she was overated.. But then she ran a huge race in the Breederscup..A race she should have won.. If she was closer to the pace she would have won by about 5.. Her races were so close because she was only running 1.18 miles.. a 1.1.4 she would have won by a lot..
tracybrown1977 1 year ago
Gamesgreyhound is bitter because Rachel lost 3 of 5 this year and did not even have one G1 win. Rachel Alexandra's distance limitations were finally spelled out to even her most partisan fans when she lost to an obscure optional claimer named 'Persistently' in her only attempt at 10F. Consider this: Persistently covered the 1 1/4 miles in 2:04.49 and Rachel ended up losing by a full length. She earned a 93 BSF compared to Zenyatta's 111 BSF (if you believe in Beyer's methodology)
Bigshotism 1 year ago
ONLY ONE ANSWER TO THIS:
BLAME GOT LUCKY!!!!
Galathea19 1 year ago
Blame hardly kicked Zenyatta's ass, he barely hung on to win, another stride and she had him.
LeeAnne151 1 year ago 28
@LeeAnne151 Yea Poor girl I really throught she had him too.But i don't think blame hardly kicked zenyatta's ass.I think she just had a bad day.
ruffianruleswolfrule 7 months ago
@LeeAnne151 *rolls eyes* duh ur gonna say that ur a Zenyatta fan.... I'm at this video for mi mom lol and as one of few not biased I'll say Zenyatta is a beast (meaning really good) but beating Blame? watch the finish he had her 100% another stride mi ass they were going the EXACT same speed. Blame was better then Z on that day.... but even if u wanna argue that I'd still take Goldikova and especially Personal Ensign over Z. Z the queen heck no. personal ensign is the best period.
4444IAmLegend 7 months ago
@4444IAmLegend I'm a fan of all racing have been a fan of racing since before you were born I'm sure....Zenyatta did pass him with her next stride there are photos and videos. An ass kicking is not barely hanging on it is winning pulling away by daylight and that Blame did not do. He was at his home track and she was pelted with 40 * clods of dirt and clearly pulling back from it and still almost won.
Personal Ensign was indeed a great mare and that is not in question.
LeeAnne151 7 months ago
@LeeAnne151 I don't agree besides u can wut if all u want.... take personal ensign's final race as EXACTLY wut I'm talking about.... that's a win Zenyatta lost.... I'm not hating or w/e just stating a fact heck I count man o wars loss as losing and it might just be me but his jockey having him face the wrong way in the starting gate and starting 20 lengths back and losing bi a nose is a heck of a lot better excuse for losing then "would have won in X amount of feet"
4444IAmLegend 7 months ago
@4444IAmLegend. Check your reading comprehension. The discussion is that Zenyatta did NOT get her ASS KICKED by Blame since she lost by a short head not that she didn't lose. She was going faster with every stride and he was not. The icy dirt in her face earlier really bothered her.
Man O'War didn't lose by a nose either it was half a length and there were no starting gates then just a tape barrier, he was being circled. Best horse does not always win.
LeeAnne151 7 months ago
@4444IAmLegend "Would have won in X amount of feet" discounts the rest of her run, she fell 20 back, and dealt with all that dirt kickback, and fought through it. Yes she poked her nose in front of Blame the jump after the finish line, but she too had to deal with factors she never dealt with before. Now with Man O War, there were no starting gates, as you say, just a line, with webbing in front, but even if they had, I find it very implausible they'd put a horse in the gate the wrong way.
d9y8l7a6n5 7 months ago
@4444IAmLegend If they were going the same speed, she would have lost by more than a nose, he would have held the couple lengths he had on her at the 1/8th. Personal Ensign is indeed a great mare too, she should have been HOY 1988, had she run in the Classic, as incredible as her Distaff run is, she belonged in the Classic (the Whitney was underwhelming for me) she was in the driver's seat for HOY, but her main competition came in and took it. Terrific race mare, in my top 5, but Zen for me.
d9y8l7a6n5 7 months ago
@d9y8l7a6n5 u misunderstand. I'm talking the very end.... towards the end it is very clear that Zen is gaining ground. I'm talking the last few strides before the finish line.... same speed neither horse gained an inch on the other. besides as Ive said before "would have won in X amount of feet" doesn't hold for me. as for Personal Ensign 5th.... really? I saw a professionals list of his 50 best filly/mares and he did pros and cons for all horses PE's was only 13 starts. 5th? really?
4444IAmLegend 7 months ago
@LeeAnne151 that, and if quality road wouldnt have stalled her about 3/16 of a mile left, she surley wouldnt have been beat. but win or lost, she ranks up to one of the best, in my opinion she is THE best, and got me into horseracing.
#BestInTheWorld
MaDkOrNfLaKeS 1 month ago
wow an overgrown mule? really? you call the horse names because your mad about what one of her fans said? thats really tough, calling an animal names. good job tough guy.
10littleturtle 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound
actually, he barely squeaked out a win.
Zooropa420 1 year ago
@Europeracing, funny coming from you, so who is it doing the exact same thing on Rach? Idiot.
21Sarabi 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound No, I think a lot more people agree that Zen is the better horse.
TheBZs 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound Your obviously just a Zenny hater. Keep hating. I am entitled to my opinion, and I bet a lot more people agree with me then you.
TheBZs 1 year ago
Zenyatta is no doubt the better horse then Blame. Sure she didn't race much in 2010, or didn't race against what you would call "tough" competition, but thats no excuse. She still won every race by what 2-8 lengths? I mean come one. All of Blames races were a tight battle to the wire where with a photo finish you could see Blame maybe had a tiny nose in front. You make a match race, Zenny against Blame, Zenny would win. No Doubt. Blame may be a good horse, But Zenyatta is a great horse!!!!!!!!!!
TheBZs 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound There are times when the best performance in the race however can sometimes not be the winner's, that was certainly the case Saturday
d9y8l7a6n5 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound I'd hardly say he "kicked Zenyatta's ass" if he won by 6 lengths or so then maybe, but he lost by a diminishing head. Zenyatta ran the best race coming from so far back, but Blame had the cleaner trip and thus got the jump and got it. Zen ran the better race though, but to say he kicked her ass is a gross overstatement
d9y8l7a6n5 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound Wow, I really feel sorry for you...you missed the unique opportunity to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime-kind of mare. You probabaly know nothing about this sport
lengua92 1 year ago
@lengua92 He doesn't...just someone who is miserable himself and can't stand to see the joy and excitement this horse brought to many....even in defeat nothing can be taken away from Zenyatta....be thankful you're not gamesgreyhound.....
JimSpoor 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound actually that was not the same way. the traffic isnt what messed her up, it was the decision to go inside. she started her run then mike smith stopped it for about 1 second and then started he started it again. that was the difference.
if he would have kept her run going clean to the outside, she would have won.
sedro32 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound wow your just a east coaster that hates on zenyatta.
u know nothing about horse racing.
NO horse ever kicked zenyattas ass. zenyatta had a bad trip, oh well. and still passed up all those horses in the end. that was her greatest ever stretch run. too bad she started late because she was blocked on the turn. Blame did good and didnt fold, but zenyatta was going to pass him up. no doubt
sedro32 1 year ago
@gamesgreyhound how did he kick her ass zenyatta is a much better horse than blame who was a very lucky winner due to an horrendous ride by mike smith
MrJoey1498 1 year ago
The name Zenyatta will be remembered long after Blame's. Blame is a great horse and he deserved to win. But when it comes to being a star,....Zenyata does'nt just walk,trot and run, like most horses. She puts on a show.
mousepd 1 year ago
Gamesgreyhound Zenyatta could have won Mike Smith just kept her back too long.
AKM1007 1 year ago
@AfonsoAlves34 yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaasssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
so sweet because use were all saying she was the best ever
im so glad use have been shut up with that ridiculous claim forever
thanks BLAME
cmcgarth1O 1 year ago
@cmcgarth1O Fuck you douchebag. You don't know shit ASSWIPE
leroythedolphin 1 year ago
and dont BLAME the jockey
got to BLAME in plenty of time, not good enough to go past
and being on BLAME at 7/1 makes it all the sweeter
thissssssssssssss iiiiiiiiiiiiiiissssssssssssssssssssssssss uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuunnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbeeeeeeeeeeeeeeelllllllllllieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeevvvvvvvvvvvvvvvaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaabbbbbbbbbblllllllllllllllllleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
cmcgarth1O 1 year ago
@JimSpoor Got something to say?
cmcgrath10 1 year ago
@cmcgrath10 Oh yeah, plenty....Zenyatta ran the best race of her life overcoming 20 lengths and just missing....nothing wrong with that...and I got to be there and got pictures taken with her and Goldikova....what did you do? Sex with Mom that afternoon?
JimSpoor 1 year ago
aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
were are they now
cmcgarth1O 1 year ago
hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
unbeatable my arse hahahahahaha
cmcgarth1O 1 year ago
hahahahahhghahahahahahahahahahaha
cmcgarth1O 1 year ago
@JR08620 Totally agree m8, the screaming pregnant women at the track have turned it into a circus and they know nothing about racing. These same ppl come onto racing videos in the ultimate act of ignorance saying she is the best ever.
"She dosent go on when she hits the front" shes all out to actually get to the front 3 strides before the line against poor fillies.
Most overhyped horse in history and i dont even care if she wins another Classic, the race is almost as weak as last years
cmcgarth1O 1 year ago
Zenyatta can be criticized for alot of things from her naysayers. But they would have a hard time calling her "boring." Even with races where she at 1/9, she keeps those races entertaining. More entertaining than Mr. Ed. The comparisons to a rollercoaster are valid because she can gives us a thrill of a lifetime. Like GOLIATH @ Magic Mountain. She is a horse not for the faint of heart, but for the thrill-seekers. It is all about taking that "leap of faith" with her this weekend.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
The best part about this GREAT HORSE is she never gone all out. Look at all of her victories she cursing or even better she being gear down. There no dispute Zenyatta is THE BEST HORSE EVER. I hit my first pick 3 on her win in the vanity. That day I said to my buddy this is the best horse line start here. Well a year ladder and RA busted out and she still winning like alway. After the BC classic maybe just maybe they will finaling give her horse of the year. She should be 3 x hoty.
docholiday3407 1 year ago
@docholiday3407 "there no dispute that Zenyatta is the best ever"
THATS EASY TO SAY
You could easily say that about any horse without showing significant evidence.
Zen has beat nothing of note and has ran 99% against fillies, theres actually no way you can say she is the best horse ever.
Shes one of the best fillies ever but no way she is the best horse ever.
She could be the most loved horse ever but that dosent mean shes the best.
Good record, no substance
cmcgarth1O 1 year ago
Well folks looks like we're not so lucky this year. We got 5-2 last year, and this year if the morning line stays put we'll be getting 8-5, not bad still, but I didn't think she'd be that low. All the best to you Zenny, and I will be seeing you in Louisville!!! First time to Churchill, so excited! This BC is going to be epic!!
d9y8l7a6n5 1 year ago
I don't understand what is so hard to grasp for Z naysayers? She has maintained a winning form for 35 straight months. What is so hard to SEE with her? She is beautiful, intelligent, talented, accomplished, and fan-friendly. All the right qualities in an equine athlete. And yet, some people want to look for somebody better when she is right in front of us. Open your eyes and believe. You don't need "20/20" vision to SEE it.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
go Zenyatta
lokotaandme 1 year ago
When Zenyatta ran in the Santa Margarita, I remember it being cloudy and cold that day. Then when she stepped on the track, the clouds started to separate and the sun was shining on the track. I think that's how the weather will be like this Sat. With 10% chance of showers, that should be no prob for her or anyone attending the track. Should be a cold day, but not a messy one. Tomorrow (5am PST) is when she leaves CA and heads to KY. Get those cameras ready.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
Amen, Kostly. I know how it feels to be jaded toward Zenyatta. I was not a fan of this amazing horse early on. I know how it felt to be skeptic. But once I saw the light, she made a believer out of me and I love being a Zen convert now. Too much fun on this side. I hope Mike Smith has a take no prisoners approach this Saturday and we truly see something special from her.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
I missed it...gotta see it on youtube!!!
oshellyjo08 1 year ago
Zenyatta on 60 Minutes tonight.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
@sweetepnoy a great piece. Lots of tears of joy for me on that one. I'm going to savor every last bit until she retires and she'll be legendary in all of our hearts. We know we got to witness something phenomenal and beautiful. Thankfully we'll have youtube to always revisit her incredible run.
Kostly 1 year ago
People can try to act like a "wise guy" and try to defy her because she is the current pop sensation. Perhaps it pays off with whoever they like in next week's Classic, but realize playing against her hasn't been all that profitable. I'm not going for Zenyatta because she is the fastest on paper or she beat the best competition. I'm going for her because she is the most genuine.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
@slowhorse19 lol please don't make me laugh. she is a hard core closer! CLOSERS ARE NOT SPEED HORSES! yea she slow thats why she won 19 for 19. their running on dirt for the BC she runs better on dirt than scynthetic.
Horses4ever8 1 year ago
beyer figures are garbage, the horse races on all heart. switch is a very nice filly who could go with the boys as well, shes no slouch. obv the guy who says shes slow doesnt know a whole lot about horse racing, ill gladly own any "slow" horse who wins 19 in a row in all graded company
snapoutofit11 1 year ago
@snapoutofit11 Switch ran a helluva race and a field of males would have had a hard time catching that stretch run by her. Zenyatta is a horse of destiny.
Kostly 1 year ago
On paper, Zenyatta has no chance to win the Breeders' Cup Classic. She's too slow, and she has spent much of year narrowly beating ordinary fillies and mares. Really tough, fast males like Blame, Quality Road and Lookin at Lucky should thrash her. As the favorite in the Classic, she could well be the biggest underlay in Breeders' Cup history. All of which I am going to ignore. I'm picking her. - Bill Finley, ESPN
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
@sweetepnoy well we dont know how much zenyatta is giving to us. she could just be lolly gagging around and not trying. we'll see how it all pans out. she runs better on dirt than synthetic
Horses4ever8 1 year ago
@Horses4ever8 HAHAH add in the CD home stretch and that is a formula for disaster for the rest of the field. Who can hold off her finishing onslaught? No one. Not a single horse in the world. I guarantee you that.
Kostly 1 year ago
Zenyatta is one of the biggest freak in horse racing history and one of the all-time greats while Rachel A. is the biggest overrated hype in horse racing history.
THAT ABOUT SAYS IT ALL!!!!
duhru4real 1 year ago
That's the intangible Zenyatta brings to the table, and it's bigger than Beyer figures, company lines and everything else her critics might judge her on. She just wins. You cannot argue with 19 straight, no matter how weak some of the fields she has been facing might have been. It is an historic accomplishment, something no other top-level horse has done. Corny as it might sound, she has a big heart, refuses to lose, knows where the wire is, whatever. In the Classic, that's what is going to get
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
I think it will be a miracle if Zen can pull out another BC Classic. I almost wish they would just let her retire and make wonderful Zen babies. Just want her to stay safe and healthy for a long, long time. She has already given me 19 heart attacks! LOL She's certainly never boring.
kwmred 1 year ago
Reminds me of Secretariat...
CoconutThoroughbred 1 year ago 3
@CoconutThoroughbred Her and mike smith are a tour de hellacious force.
Kostly 1 year ago
@CoconutThoroughbred i agree lol
lokotaandme 1 year ago
@CoconutThoroughbred Have a great friend, top equine surgeon - she just told me this today: "Zenyatta runs like Secretariat. Hangs in the back and then drops the hammer" True words!
Seeknhim59 1 year ago
Slowhorse19 is just trolling. Wants attention. Probably another douchebag with multiple accounts and hiding because a Sweetie like me PWNED him. *yawn* Zenyatta is going to make these males look like her little bitches. About 50 years from now, people will fondly remember Zen's success more than Slowhorse19's meaningless contributions in this life. Andy Beyer, is that you prick?
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
The thing with Zenyatta haters is they think because of this one last race, people will stop loving this horse if she loses. Wrong again. The many fans of Zen love her "unconditionally." Win or lose. Their love is not on the basis of what might happen next. Haters cling onto whatever hot horse they think is great. They come and go and they win AND lose. Admiring them on a "conditional" level. Fair weather/bandwagon fans.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
slowhorse19 - Obviously you are a casual observer and not a racing fan. Zenyatta has won on the dirt, and John Sherriffs thinks she runs better on it than on polytrack. Did you watch the Classic last year? You must think Gio Ponti, Twice Over, and Summer Bird suck. Twice Over has gone on to win some Group 1's in England (Euro horses tend to outclass the U.S. runners). Zenyatta won easily in her only start on dirt this year (small field, didn't beat much) but don't think she'll fold in Classic.
freida95 1 year ago
i love how slowhorse 19 is so stupid...have you any evidence to back up what your saying, or are you just an idiot who happened to watch this one race and read some negative comments? Or perhaps even a bitter rachel fan? On what grounds is she slow? She's won all of her races, including one which no other female has ever accomplished and only 3 others dared to try...and yet you say she's "slow" hmmmmm, ya what exactly is your IQ?
8yuliavolk 1 year ago 6
@8yuliavolk on the grounds that she HAS to run like hell just befor the finish wire ! (take your blinders off)
doubleagent14 1 year ago
Comment removed
8yuliavolk 1 year ago
@slowhorse19 obviously not a student of the game..
just a hater......
logjammers 1 year ago
But... with the weather on Nov 6th looking brighter by the day, I believe Zenyatta will win going away. If not, she gives us one helluva thrill one last time like the Drama Queen she is and the finish will be tight win or lose. As long as she doesn't lose ground in the stretch, she will catch her prey like a cheetah catching a gazelle or a giant tsunami wiping out a beach town. Photo finish or romp, the result at the end seems to always be the same for her.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
Zenyatta is a 6.5YO MARE and running in the toughest race of her career on a surface she only twice on before. If this happens to be her lone loss in her career, it wouldn't be the end of the world. She has 19 other races that can make me smile. I can fully accept the defeat to MALES the same way many horses like Cigar, Skip Away, Curlin, and Rachel Alexandra lost in their final start.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
@slowhorse19 I hope you back up your claim with the contents of your bank account, because it will be a pleasure taking your money.
Venckman 1 year ago
As long as Zenyatta is within 6-7 lengths behind early on, she will win the race going away. Her kick is far more potent than Street Cry or Street Sense. Cynics can keep doubting her as if you were trying to "outsmart" the rest of us because of your smartass "defiance." In a sport where 1 out of 3 favorites win, you simply can't outsmart the game. Better chance at winning learning to count cards in 21. Be alone in the dark for the rest of your miserable life if you can't appreciate a great mare
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
Quality Road ran his last 3/8ths in the Woodward over :38 secs. Zenyatta also ran a slow time in the AB, but she closed about ONE full second faster in that race basically "cantering." I think Zenyatta will relish dirt the same way Street Sense relished Churchill after he lost on synth a race prior. Honestly, I think Zen will win the BCC going away. She will produce those sub-36s again. Quality Road is the Hard Spun of the field. Sloppy track and then it becomes anyone's race.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
Lookin At Lucky, Quality Road, and Blame may be the toughest opponents Zenyatta will ever face. Guess what? Zenyatta will be the toughest opponent they will ever face too. Doesn't matter what surface these colts "prefer." Much tougher than Summer Bird, Regal Ransom, Misremembered, Musket Man, Sidney's Candy, Super Saver, Noble's Promise, and Vale of York. It can cut both ways.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
@sweetepnoy I don't think she has much to fear from QR at the distance and under that pace scenario, nor Blame, who simply cannot close with her. I do think the BC rule, "beware the improving 3 year old" applies in spades here. Lookin at Lucky is a real danger because of his tactical speed and his great heart.
Venckman 1 year ago
Only three things sure in this old world. Death, taxes, and Zenyatta. slowhorse19, you're vast knowledge of racing really comes shining through making a comment like that. LOL. She's the slowest 19 for 19 horse I ever saw. LOL.
GBeret83 1 year ago
@slowhorse19, Dream on buddy. This mare is much faster on conventional dirt than she is over synthetics. Look how many times on synthetics she's ran down whoever is leading on the wire. Then look at both of her Apple Blossom Handicap win's. In both starts at Oaklawn, she's not only caught her rivals. But also pulled 4 or 5 lengths clear of them as well. Lookin At Lucky is the only horse who isn't "iffy" at best to get 1-1/4 in the Classic. She'll dominate the males at Churchill Downs.
GBeret83 1 year ago
@slowhorse19 Zenyatta is hardly slow. She does what she has to to win, but when she needs to really run she can. She mowed down the boys last year in the BCC. And she's already ran and won on the dirt. If she loses the BCC, there's no shame in that. She's already solidified her status as a great and legend.
BarbaroBeliever 1 year ago
Jayham1970 - I was there too! It was incredible! I was right at the rail by the finish. I loved the crowd, they were so appreciative of her. She's such a superstar, showing off for her adoring fans. She is sure a special, unique horse.
Horshooer - I don't think she looked pregnant at all. Zenyatta was just playing it up for the crowd, like she always does. She waited until she wanted to catch Switch. And when she went it was with a burst that few horses could match. She was just playing.
BarbaroBeliever 1 year ago
I'm still trying to get used to America having a Queen.... and ours has 4 legs :/
horshooer 1 year ago
@horshooer That's cool, we do have a Queen, Queen Z, win or lose next week, she is something special!
mstrunn 1 year ago
Quality Road ran the last 3/8ths in 38.48 in the Woodward. I am not convinced he wins the 2010 BCC with a closing time like that. He is the one horse I believe will be an underlay and won't hit the board. Handicap it like the Ky Derby where closing splits are important. Zenyatta can run last 3/8ths under :36 seconds on mostly second gear.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
I was actually there that day and saw that very race. It was absolutely FANTASTIC! Zenyatta has that specialness about her that comes along every so often. She wants to win and finds a way to do so: Kind of like Secretariat. Some horses have a uniqueness about them that touches the human heart, and she is one of them that does.
jayham1970 1 year ago
Okay slowhorse19, you can remove your head from your asshole now.
mattstein70 1 year ago
Why is it my heart pounds faster and faster EVERY time I watched the home stretch. I love both her and Rachel Alexandra. They help me rediscover why I love horses so much!!! :)
bubblinbrownsugar616 1 year ago
Zenyatta is a big gal. She is bigger than most colts. She CAN run on dirt. She always comes from behind, it's her speciality. And the distance in the Breeder Cup will benefit her. #GOZENYATTA!
fortheloveofthehorse 1 year ago
Goldikova does not care for soft footing. The only state Goldi has ever raced in the U.S.A. is CA. Blame Pro-Ride, but California's weather was picture perfect each time and we got formful results esp on turf. With a storm, Borel may just end up winning alot of BC races that day. We may have a BC with 6-horse fields and no turf racing if a snow storm hits.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
Zenyatta is the #1 reason why many people want to watch the Breeders' Cup this year. She is the one being marketed the most and the real reason for any attendance draw. I have at least 19 different reasons why this is the case, but it is the 20th question that she needs to answer which makes many people tune in. Scratch Zen, and the BC interest level goes down the toilet. She is the main star of the show. Start picking Calvin Borel in bad weather. More flukey results like Super Saver and Mine T
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
It looks like a storm is going to happen that week in CD. Bad news not only for the two biggest attractions in Zen and Goldi, but for almost everybody. When it rains or snows, it becomes anyone's ball game. Who knows how these horses react to it? I can envision several scratches from top horses and flukey results like what happened in the last two Ky Derbies.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
@sweetepnoy I just checked it and shows "few showers" on friday and mostly clear with a 10% chance of rain with a high of 50 degrees. Hope it warms up some, but, looks like we're having a very chilly fall. Keep our fingers crossed on the weather.
Kostly 1 year ago
@thePAPsheets i agree totally... i read ur comment after i said this to that guy
colinprprpr 1 year ago
@slowhorse19 shes rran her best races on the dirt...
colinprprpr 1 year ago 2
“They say they are looking for stars to promote. ‘Where are our stars?’ they ask,” Shirreffs continued. “Here she is and then they seem to be looking for something better. The opportunity here is that (Zenyatta) is so unique.”
sweetepnoy 1 year ago 3
Whether Zenyatta breaks from post 1 or 14, her running-style should make it moot in the early going. If you asked me would Zen still have been great at ANY era or surface, I would say yes. Z's last 1/2 mile is close to sprinter speed. She can sustain a long run without losing focus or getting distracted from the crowd. Most horses may be great for "their" time. As time goes on, sometimes it longer holds up. Better in memory than reality. But Zenyatta is great for ANY era.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
We know a calibur of Switch wouldn't be within 10 lengths from the BCC winner, but the same could be said about Haynesfield whom Blame finished 4 lengths behind. Blame and Zenyatta are much better than what their last prep may indicate. I don't think we've seen the best 2010 race of Zen yet. This reminds me of exactly year ago when experts thought she was tailing off. Lately, Zen is not for the faint of heart. For a $60K purchase, she has always worked to please her fans and prove her non-belie
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
@slowhorse19 You're such a moron you dont even realize her fav surface is dirt.John said it..Mike said it....Go listen to Mike E. Smith interview on his page...its called Talkin horses.Let him tell your dumbass...lmao.I dont think the horse said..I want to live in Cali and race on Poly...
205seeme 1 year ago
Some people forget that NOT all synthetic tracks plays out the same. Hollywood plays out closest to dirt where speed can be dangerous. Del Mar is quirky, the least safest with slow early fractions. Santa Anita's Pro-Ride plays out like turf. But people also forget SA didn't originallly have Pro-Ride. It was Cushion which was more speed-favoring in early 2008 before the renovation. Z set the stakes record in the El Encino in that meet. 1:40+ for 8.5F after she caught the speed going under 1:35 f
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
Once Zenyatta starts to bring her head down and hits full stride, no horse in the country can repel her challenges. Gear after gear, once she hits the front, not a horse behind her will catch up because she is closing the fastest of them all. Look at all her prev races. Notice you never see another horse flying late and closing the gap for 2nd or 3rd. She is the greatest American closer since Forego based on accomplishments and one of the most popular closers since Silky Sullivan and Whirlaway.
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
I had to rewatch Street Cry's 2002 Foster and Street Sense's 2006 BCJ & 2007 Derby. Zenyatta has a more potent late-kick than either two and is far bigger. And to ones who think CD is speed-favoring sometimes, look at her OP wins. Both runaways and OP has a shorter stretch. I believe Z will love CD's long stretch. She can run over a mile and still close a final quarter in :23. Very fast on any surface. I hope she is a runaway winner on dirt again and Mike wakes the sleeping giant and go all-out!
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
she doesn't look pregnant- she's just that big! good luck at BC queen Z!
rmoldread 1 year ago
Zen Bashers are upset that they didn't bet a paltry $2 win on the Queen when she won her maiden and paid $13.00. They then could have parlayed their winnings on her next 18 straight and and would have thirty thousand dollars and could have bought their lovely wives one of those nifty electric Nissan Leafs. Zen's 15,000-1 streak is like no other. Money talks!
motosneerful 1 year ago
I hope she wins the Breeder's Cup because it would be great attention for the sport, but anyone who knows anything about horse racing knows she will not. I think the bigger story of the Breeder's Cup should be on Goldikova. Going for her 3rd Breeder's Cup win. She is way better than Zenyatta!
1337ballin 1 year ago
Shirreffs on the thought of being disappointed if she loses her only race in her final race: “It’s not the end of the world (if she loses). Giving her the opportunity to achieve something that seems almost unattainable is more important.”
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
Shirreffs on running on dirt versus synthetic surfaces: “I think she prefers dirt. We didn’t have an opportunity to run her very often on dirt, but one of the things I always tell people about dirt vs. synthetics is that when horses run on dirt their toes really get into the track; their feet rotate so they can push off differently. It’s like when you get into a starting block on a track versus standing on the track flat-footed.”
sweetepnoy 1 year ago
@slowhorse19 As big a Zen as I am.... I have to admit she looked like she was 6 months pregnant in this one.... If she wants to run against the best guy horses in the world, she better tone up for it!! :/
horshooer 1 year ago
@horshooer She lost over a hundred pounds when they took her to the apple blossom in 2010...they put extra weight on her before shipping her to churchill.
205seeme 1 year ago
@horshooer Not to mention shes grown from 17 and a half hands in the BCC to now standing 18.
205seeme 1 year ago
@horshooer I was there. She looked quite sleek.
Venckman 1 year ago
@horshooer if u read anything about the horse... she does just what it takes to win... because she knows how to win... watch her win the classic...AGAIN.
colinprprpr 1 year ago