The Autumn We Said Goodbye to True Greatness
It is difficult in some ways to believe that 15 years have passed since we bid farewell to Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta. Their careers are too voluminous and filled with too much history and iconic moments to devote to a single column. This is about their final moments on the racetrack, the impact they had on their fans, and embarking on new careers as broodmares. ~ Steve Haskin
The Autumn We Said Goodbye to True Greatness
By Steve Haskin
It was 15 years ago on September 28 that Rachel Alexandra retired. Some five weeks later on November 6, Zenyatta bid her farewell to racing. Never before had the Sport of Kings been ruled simultaneously by two queens who were as beloved as these two heroines. So revered were both fillies, with such strong followings, it was destined that they would never meet in battle.
For some reason it was also destined that they leave with a defeat, neither of which tarnished their reputation, and in fact it enhanced Zenyatta’s. The main difference in their respective retirements was that Rachel’s was made in virtual silence, while Zenyatta’s was with great fanfare.
So let’s begin in the fall of 2010 in Saratoga. The autumn leaves, in different shades of browns and yellows, were already falling in upstate New York. The Oklahoma training track was quiet, seemingly a million miles away from the cheers that greeted New York‘s own, Haynesfield, following his stirring victory in the Jockey Club Gold Cup. A little over an hour earlier, Life At Ten, who had finished more than 10 lengths behind Rachel Alexandra in her career finale, the Personal Ensign Stakes, was being led into the winner’s circle after a workmanlike victory in the Beldame Stakes, a race Rachel had been pointing for prior to the announcement of her retirement.
Several days later, Rachel quietly bid farewell to the racetrack and embarked on her journey to Kentucky and life as a broodmare. There were no trumpet calls, no banners waving, no cheering crowds. Those days were gone. It is unfortunate that Rachel’s adoring fans never got a chance to give her a proper goodbye. The last sounds Rachel should have heard were the cheers that had been so familiar to her in 2009 and on occasion in 2010.
Instead, she left Saratoga in silence. It had been some 13 months since those old rafters rocked like they had never rocked before. Thinking back to that emotion-filled September afternoon when Rachel Alexandra left part of herself on the Saratoga stretch, it was as if her 2010 campaign never happened. Misguided from the beginning, it surely will fade from memory with time. But even in her narrow defeats, Rachel never stopped giving her all, battling to the wire against foes she would have left reeling the year before.
The clouds that enshrouded her 4-year-old season have long since dissipated, bringing clarity to the 2009 tour de force that likely will never be equaled by a 3-year-old filly.
And for as long as racing fans flock to Saratoga in droves each year, the final triumph that year in the Woodward Stakes will remain frozen in time, as will the deafening roar that greeted Rachel Alexandra following her gut-wrenching victory. Racing’s grand old lady has experienced many great moments in 145 years, but never has she been engulfed by such an eruption of sound as she was on this day.
Rachel Alexandra, far right, defeats the boys in the 2009 Woodward Stakes at Saratoga Race Course.
But it came at a price. The Woodward would claim not only the victor, but those who dared to challenge her, resulting in brutal fractions. Rachel would go on to win other races at 4, but we would never again see that same grace and devastating power and the sheer joy of running we witnessed in the spring and summer of 2009.
As the then 97-year-old racing legend John Nerud pointed out. “They sent two speed horses after her and made her go in :22 4/5, then they came after her one at a time and she put them all away. Those were tough older horses and they tried everything they could to get her beat and they couldn’t. I think she’s the best I’ve ever seen. I don’t compare her to anyone.”
Rachel’s statistics and domination of her opponents will never be duplicated by a filly. Even winning the Woodward by a head and the Preakness by one length, her average margin of victory in 2009 was still a staggering 8 1/4 lengths. That year alone she defeated eight Derby winners (Kentucky Derby, Santa Anita Derby, Arkansas Derby, Louisiana Derby, Illinois Derby, Tampa Bay Derby, Iowa Derby, and UAE Derby, plus the runner-up in the West Virginia Derby).
She also defeated eight Grade 1-winning males, including the winners of the Belmont Stakes, Travers, Jockey Club Gold Cup, Whitney, Stephen Foster, Blue Grass, and Secretariat Stakes, as well as the winners of the Oaklawn Handicap, New Orleans Handicap, Jim Dandy, Tom Fool Handicap, Woody Stephens Stakes, and Lone Star Handicap.
She became the first filly to defeat three classic-winning males, and defeated the 1-2-3 finishers of the Kentucky Derby, as well as the 1-2 finishers of the Whitney, the 1-2 finishers of the Stephen Foster, and the 1-3 finishers of the Belmont Stakes. Racing against males, she was the first filly to win the Preakness in 85 years and the first to win from post 13; the first filly ever to win the Woodward; and recorded the second largest winning margin and second fastest time in the history of the Haskell, while missing Spend A Buck’s 24-year-old track record by two-fifths of a second.
There is no doubt that Rachel should have departed with the same fanfare as her phantom rival Zenyatta, with her devoted and emotional fans saying their goodbyes. But when it came to affecting human lives and stirring the emotions there has never been a horse like Zenyatta and her huge zealous following.
Although Zenyatta suffered her first and only career defeat in her final start after an amazing 19 consecutive victories, the aftermath was unlike anything anyone had ever seen.
Henry Ward Beecher wrote, “It is defeat that turns bone to flint; it is defeat that turns gristle to muscle; it is defeat that makes men invincible.”
And apparently women. For Zenyatta, her head defeat in the 2010 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Churchill Downs will be remembered as an affirmation of her greatness. In victory after victory she captured the heart. In her lone defeat she captured the soul. All this remarkable mare lost in the Classic was her unbeaten record. But, like Seattle Slew’s memorable nose defeat in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, her courageous performance and spectacular run from far back in last place actually enhanced her place in history.
Zenyatta, left, comes up short by a head to Blame in the 2010 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Churchill Downs.
Although she did not retire undefeated, Zenyatta proved in the end that perfection is not always measured in numbers.
That was evident the day after the Classic; a day that can best be described as surreal. There is something about vulnerability that endears us to someone, whether a human or a Thoroughbred. Zenyatta’s defeat at the hands of a talented, classy colt in Blame under the lights actually brought out an outpouring of affection and admiration that transcended even the emotions she stirred in people during her 19-race winning streak.
For several hours in the morning and then again all afternoon, Zenyatta was taken out to graze behind her barn, drawing hundreds of fans to the Longfield Avenue fence. They brought cakes and signs, and carrots, and apples…and love.
All the while, Zenyatta posed for photos, as dozens and dozens of people inside the backstretch lined up to have their picture taken with her. Several women broke down in tears afterward, one of them putting her arms around co-owner Ann Moss and thanking her. Through it all, Zenyatta never once became agitated, and accepted the kissing, the hugging, and the petting as if part of her normal routine. Occasionally, the chant of “Zen-Ya-Ta!” went up from the crowd. It was a scene that assuredly will never be witnessed again. On a personal note, at one point Ann insisted I let her take my picture with Zenyatta, and proceeded to take around nine or 10 shots. I still cherish those photos of me hugging and kissing this remarkable creature, who still was as classy as ever despite having already spent most of the day being lavished with affection.
At some point, a police car pulled up on Longfield Avenue and the officer asked the people gathered at the fence to move their cars. Some did, but many didn’t, and with cars still pulling up and parking, the officer finally gave up and left. Zenyatta was often brought to the fence, where children fed her apples, squeezing them through the bottom, or just reached through to pet her as she lowered her head to the ground. One woman brought a decorated and inscribed cake and was able with the help of others to pass it over the top of the fence. Jerry and Ann Moss and their racing manager Dottie Ingordo Shirreffs, wife of trainer John Shirreffs, came over to the fence and thanked everyone for their support. John Shirreffs on occasion would stop by and chat with the people. Finally, at 5 p.m., Zenyatta was led into the barn to get ready for her trip back to California, as the crowd gave her a warm round of applause.
Looking back, Zenyatta’s arrival at Churchill was unlike anything ever seen, as hordes of photographers and TV cameramen crowded behind police barricades outside Barn 41 and onlookers gathered to get a good look at the Queen as she was led off the van following her police escort from the airport.
Trainer Steve Penrod, in whose barn Zenyatta would be residing, had never seen anything like it.
“It was like a Hollywood movie production,” he said. “And the most impressive thing was seeing all the cars stopped on Longfield Ave., as people got out to watch Zenyatta graze through the fence.. She’s the biggest draw since Secretariat.”
The following morning, Penrod said to Shirreffs as the two stood by the gap, “You should see my wife. The last time you ran she was screaming so loud, I told her, ‘You gotta stop; they’re gonna think I’m killing you.’ She screams and hollers until it’s over, and then she cries. A month ago, she said to me, ‘Talk to (stall superintendent) Mike Hargrave and see if he’ll put Zenyatta in our barn.’ When I told her a few days later that Zenyatta is coming in our barn, she started screaming.’
Shirreffs was amazed at the outpouring of emotions that Zenyatta inspired throughout her career.
“There are ladies who come to the barn and they’re literally shaking,” he said. “They’re sweating and crying. One lady, who is a school teacher from Santa Barbara, said the first time she came to see Zenyatta she was in a wheel chair; she couldn’t walk. She said Zenyatta inspired her to push herself and try to walk. Before we left for Kentucky, she visited the barn and she was carrying three cameras and was walking.” There are a number of similar stories I have reported that showed how Zenyatta affected people in an almost spiritual way.
The final scene of Zenyatta’s farewell was played out a month later in the sales walking ring at Keeneland where over a thousand people huddled together in 20-degree temperatures, with snow beneath their feet, reaching out to try to touch Zenyatta after she landed in Lexington on her way to Lane’s End Farm. That is why they traveled from all over the country – to touch, to see, and to feel. They stood in the frigid darkness, with only the amber lights from the sales walking ring to illuminate Zenyatta’s dappled frame, creating an almost surrealistic atmosphere. Shirreffs paraded her around the ring, occasionally bringing close enough for people to reach out and touch her.
I am not going to expound again on Zenyatta’s virtues and her accomplishments. Those have been well recorded for posterity. This was about two totally different farewells to two fillies, the likes of which we will never see again.
For many of us, horses are a way of life. It is not something that was forced upon us. We have chosen to allow these magnificent creatures to infiltrate our very being and touch our souls in a way that bonds us to them – yes, with some people spiritually. The foundation between humans and horses was built centuries ago. Whether it is a racehorse, a riding horse, a show horse, or any horse that becomes a part of our life, there is always going to be that rare one who comes along and enters some hallowed sphere deep within us. Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta were two such horses, and for that we should be forever grateful. As mentioned earlier, perhaps it was destined that they should never race against each other, thus keeping alive a rivalry only of the mind…and the heart.
Steve Haskin was fortunate to share kisses with champions Zenyatta, left and Rachel Alexandra, right.
In 2011, I had the privilege of visiting Rachel Alexandra at Stonestreet Farm and Zenyatta at Lane’s End on the same day. Here I was hugging and kissing both these legendary heroines, now placid mothers-to-be, and was flooded by a wave of memories. You could still hear the resounding cheers, feel the rocking grandstands, and see the tears that flowed by their mere presence. With all of racing’s troubles today, if you took all the passion they sparked during their respective reigns and converted it into pure energy you could keep the Sport of Kings running at full speed for years to come.
Although complete opposites on the racetrack,, using totally different weapons to achieve the same result, they did share one special gift — the power to touch people like few before them.
Title images by Jaime Corum, photos courtesy of New York Racing Association, Adam Coglianese, Breeders’ Cup Ltd. and Steve Haskin
Racing historian, author, and award-winning retired journalist for the Daily Racing Form and The Blood-Horse, Steve Haskin was inducted into the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame’s Media Roll of Honor in 2016. Known for his racing knowledge and insightful prose, he has been an exclusive contributor to Secretariat.com since 2020.
I don’t think we’ll ever see the likes of Rachel and Zenyatta again. Their legacies are forever written on the books and in our hearts. We’re the lucky ones to have seen such noble and magnificent animals, the best of their breed, in our time. Many thanks, Steve, for such a beautiful and fitting tribute. Definitely had the tears flowing.
What a beautiful tribute to both Queens.
Thorpedo Anna ruled out of running 8n 2025 Breeders Cup.
Retirement still a possibility.
Nothing definitive so far as to why she ran poorly.
She was not in heat. Thumps a possibility.
If retired Kenny wants to give her a proper send-off at Keeneland before the end of the meet.
Steve,
Thanks for this wonderful article. Yesterday was at Santa Anita and on the way out my group stopped at the Zenyatta statue and we had our picture taken in front of it. As far as Rachel her 3 yr season she was the Flightline of her era.
Thanks for the memories!!!
As I was reviewing pedigrees, I noticed that Gin Gin’s sire, Hightail, had 10 starts – at 2! Who sent the young sprinter on that ambitious (and by today’s standards, insane) campaign, you ask? D Wayne Lukas. Hightail won the BC Sprint, ran once more, then fractured a sesamoid at 3 and was retired. That was only 13 years ago, but I don’t believe we will ever see a schedule like that again, even from Wayne’s most faithful disciples.
Not This Time is putting together a heck of a stud career, as another horse who didn’t make it into the three-year-old campaign. (He ran a paltry 4 races.)
Not This Time’s half-brother Liam’s Map is doing quite well at stud also. Liam’s Map only raced 8 times. Precious types that suit the Commercial Market and Kentucky Derby dreamers with deep pockets to pay for the privilege.
Big fan of Liam’s Map, even though Unbridled’s Songs make me nervous as a group. I thought he was incredible in the ‘15 BC Mile. Boxed and checked, and he just refused to be denied, awkward lead and all. Colonel Liam and Roses for Debra are my favorites of his, and I hope to continue following Burnham Square’s career.
Their other stakes winning half sister, Taylor S, still has time to make a mark as a broodmare, too. Taylor’s Version, her 2022 by Into Mischief, looks like he has potential.
Extremely sad to read the passing of Jeff Siegel, you could listen to him all day and learn so much from him. Arguably, the best handicapper.
Anna is just not in it to win it anymore.
Always very sad to see this happen to a racehorse.
Hope she is OK.
If mine I would send her to R&R and gone over with a fine tooth comb.
Lynda, her trainer never learns. Better plan- training up to Breeders instead of what transpired.
I really hope they retire Anna. She hasn’t wanted to do it all year and was getting by on class. This should make it clear. She did plenty.
I agree.
Absolutely agree with you both, Lynda and Todd. She needs to retire now and be let down before her new career.
Kenny said she will be checked out including blood work.
If this is is the end of her career, then so be it, she owes us nothing.
Agree Todd.
Watching the replay, of Silawi, in the Canadian International…his odds ate 17-1 loading and leaving….he makes an easy lead….wins—and his odds are 10-1…..irs a bad look..
Beautifully written, Steve! I am about in tears! Thanks for the memories!!
I heard…Tom Amoss’s Not This Time 17-length maiden winner….they were offered huge bucks, after that win, but HOW do you sell your 17-length SARATOGA winner???…a trainer told me, years ago–Horse Racing is all a gamble, in so many ways….
I once was talking to an owner who had a $1 million dollar deal fall through on a horse who got real good for awhile. On that day, the horse was in a 50k claimer.
Jeff Seigal passed away yesterday…..his beloved UCLA football team pulled a huge upset, of Penn State—Jeff went out “hitting a longshot”….
Yeah I just saw that this morning, so sad to hear! Mr. Seigal will definitely be missed!
Thanks Matthew.
Minnie Hauk run down close to wire by Daryx in the Arc.
Looked like Daryx won by a head.
Yes, Lynda, Daryz won a narrow victory in a thrilling edition of the Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe. I really enjoy watching the Arc every year in one of the most beautiful settings in the racing world, Longchamp. Congratulations to all the connections.
Dewey, still photo shows he won by a nose.
Minnie ran her heart out.
Congratulations to the Aga Kahn. It was a thrilling race.
Agree about the setting, probably the most beautiful race track in the world!
Not to slight Minnie Hawk, but Daryz ran his heart out, too. He looked pretty gassed after the race (especially compared with the L’Abbey winner, Asfoora, who looked pretty as a picture in the winner’s enclosure. The procession with the two landaus and the four immaculate white horses blew me away. That was a real ceremony. Maybe I should plan a trip to Paris next October. Would love to enjoy that track.
Ms B, hope you make that trip!
That would be wonderful. If only I weren’t caretaker to two aging cats I’d go in a heartbeat.
Ms Blacktype, do yourself a favor and go. It’s the best day of racing – you have Paris and horse racing. I actually updated my pastport this year with the intention of going but work commitments got in the way.
If Zarigana improves next year and is running I’ll be there.
Let’s plan to meet up!
Ms Blacktype, if the horses I want see are in the fields l’ll definitely be there.
Nonetheless, you must go it’s an experience and thrill you can only have by being there.
From early childhood, it was drummed into me that the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is the world’s greatest horse race. The atmosphere is electrifying- believe me, you tingle with anticipation.
Did Kristofferson cost Desert Gate the race in the American Pharoah? If DG hadn’t had to fight early for position, could he have held off Intrepido, who ran a really strong race like an older horse? Desert Gate might be eligible for improvement, second time going two turns, if he can rate or gets a better pace scenario.
But Intrepido and Plutarch might be eligible for improvement, too.
Intrepido for sure! All three races are improvements, not twice winner two turns….he’ll be 10-1 in Breeders Cup, vs Brant, who is suspect…and Ted Noffey—who won that shortened stretch race at Keeneland, BOTH colts very impressive…but I like Intrepido,, no…I LOVE Intrepido!
Intrepido was impressive…steadied, Into the backstretch and boxed, into the stretch, had to wait behind a tiring Kristoferson—got out—and to quote Frank—“Intrepido ERUPTS”—he did..Maximus Mischief//Pleasantly Perfect–,its way early..but Bob might not have the top Derby horse AGAIN!, out hete—but it’s early—but I was impressed by Intrepido….
All of these 2YOs have plenty of room for improvement. I’d love for Steve to give his opinions on this crop so far.
Ted Noffey was by far the most impressive of the 2YO colt/gelding Grade 1 winners today. I enjoyed seeing Intrepido surprise the FOUR Baffert entries in the American Pharoah, and was shocked by Napoleon Solo’s romp in the Champagne. I’ve only seen a clip of the race — the usual New York coverage was blacked out by college football, and NBC only broadcast the stakes from Keeneland, which I had already seen on the Fanduel feed. Seriously cheesed about that, along with the fact that It’s Our Time faded to fourth in the Champagne. Is he this year’s East Avenue, even if he’s only a maiden winner? At least Talkin rallied up for second. I really like that horse. So green in his debut at Saratoga, but managed to break his maiden anyway.
Mayfield is getting runners, Five Bars goes in The Frizette—check out her debut!
Another Saratoga maiden winner to check out—Favorable Scenario, who goes at Keeneland, race four…..2 1/2 years between races, returns as a 5yo—-on Aug 8th came home with a :46 half—actually shaded :46…..draws the 12 pist today but could be any kind..I also like La Wally, at Santa Anita in The Oak Leaf, and Blackout Time, at Keeneland…..McPeek has some runners!….
(Maxfield)
I just read an interesting article about HISA. Since its inception a few years ago, it has spent $230 million with no measureable improvement in equine safety. In my opinion, many large bureaucracies, while initially well intentioned, often cross over into self serving and overbearing. Most of the money is raised through feex on racetracks and owners. Imagine if this level of money went to racehorse retirement programs?
Agreed. I didn’t know about the money issues, which are indeed disturbing, but I’ve found other problems with HISA, particularly the ones dealing with whips. I think they do regulate for the sake of regulating, which makes the organization counterproductive. Racing would be better off without HISA.
Sorry Jiffy, but how many horse racing trainers/vets were recently jailed because of the laisse-faire attitude US horse racing had toward managing the sport.
You may not have been aware but outside the US, US horse racing was openly discussed as driven by corruption and underhand medication violations.
Sir Delius by Frankel, previously known as Delius in Europe, who ran 8th in last year’s Arc has just won the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes and is now the favourite for the Melbourne Cup.
Via Sistina, Australian Horse of the Year, ran a creditable third.
Guess I’ll have to record the overnight races as well as the morning feed from Europe, Davids. When is the Melbourne Cup to be run?
Ms Blacktype, the Melbourne Cup is always on the first Tuesday of November. It’s usually run around 3 pm which is usually Midnight in New York going into early Tuesday morning in New York.
Zenyatta’s name was mentioned when Autumn Glow just won the historic Group 1 Epsom mile. Not often an US Champion gets mentioned in Australian racing.
Autumn Glow is the latest star in Australian racing.
Autumn Glow has won 7 from 7 but has only one Group 1 at this stage. Back to the track.
King Charles’ horse, Gilded Water, almost won the Lexus Bart Cummings which was an immediate entry into the Melbourne Cup. The late Queen Elizabeth II bred Gilded Water.
On softer ground Gilded Time might have lead all the way. Even so, Gilded Time should get into the Melbourne Cup. Stay tuned!! Racing can make the most incredible of stories.
Both fillies were great race horses. People can disagree forever on who was better. For me, they were both great.
Two of the greatest fillies to ever step on a race track.
I choose to love them both equally.
Very classy & elegant writing Steve.
You are to writing what Popeye was to spinach!
Pathetic, Percy’s Bar’s wins easily but gets disqualified. Tommy Jo is certainly no wonder filly that all the ‘mouths’ on the internet have been posturing.
Like posturing by some regarding Citizen Bull, Barnes, etc.
That’s right, these days all a horse has to do is win one race as a two year old and they’re the next Secretariat
Correct!
I hope Percy’s Bar gets to Del Mar and holds form. She has a pedigree full of my old heroes and hopefuls.
Does it seem like Luan finds trouble? I like him, and thought he always did right by Next.
Minnie Hauk with Christophe Lemarie on board my pick to win the Arc.
Two of three Japanese entries drew outside,
FOX Sports will be airing race if anyone is interested.
Lynda, I’m still hoping Croix du Nord can do it but has the worst post at ParisLongchamp.
For a roughie, I like Quisisana. Enjoy the races on a massive weekend in the three continents. Getting ready to go to Flemington. Absolutely, gorgeous day here.
Sounds like you’ve recovered from the flu! Have a wonderful time.
Thanks Ms Blacktype, the warm dry day has worked miracles – even better when you have a few winners. ha ha
Thanks for the heads up about the network coverage, Lynda. I’m recording races in multiple hemispheres now, so it can be hard to keep track, LOL. Was temporarily perplexed as to where to find the Champagne and other big NY stakes but found a two-hour Breeders Cup feed on Saturday (on NBC, I think — I just hit record on the gizmo). So sorry about Ewing scratching out of the Breeders’ Futurity but I didn’t think he was going to beat Ted Noffey.
I think I read that CNBC has coverage 4-6 today and regular NBC has it at 4-6 tomorrow. But best of all, if you like the races at Keeneland, the track live feed is the best.
Thanks for the trip down memory lane, Steve. That was an incredible time in racing, and the exploits and accomplishments of these two wonderful mares were like thermals, lifting me up every few weeks.
Your stories about them then and now mean so much, as do the incredible Zenyatta stories from so many people. Some critters are just otherworldly, and have a greater cosmic connection than others.
I loved both, and thought it was good for Rachel and Zenyatta to forge separate legacies. I think their unfulfilled rivalry set up to perfection the back and forth between Blind Luck and Havre de Grace just a few years after. (I’d like to see them make it into the Hall, too.)
I remember the anxiety when Rachel Alexandra was fighting for her life, and being cautiously optimistic as news came
out that she was improving. I was glad when Ms. Banke decided that Rachel had done enough, and that she would not rebreed her.
There are two other valiant, highly consistent horses that I associate with that time: Gio Ponti and the incomparable Goldikova. I never thought it took away from Gio to be beaten by the ladies in consecutive years. I also thought Goldikova’s timing was fortuitous: she was a bonus heroine for people who didn’t care about racing until Zenyatta came on the scene, and she was all kinds of worth it. She may not have had the presence or the mystique, but she could sure thrill on the track!
Meeting Zenyatta in CA was a highlight and a memory I’ll treasure. She had a way of giving an individual what they needed even if the person didn’t know it.
My story was different than the teacher in Santa.Barbara. Two years prior to meeting Zenyatta, 10 days after taking my only child to NYC to attend MSM, I had to say goodbye to my heart horse- a big old Belgian named Buddy who had retired to me from Disneyland. Buddy had a habit of putting his head over my shoulder and pulling me in for a hug. He only did that with me, my daughter, and my best friend.
So when I met Zenyatta, there was a crowd of about 100 people. I wasn’t in a hurry so I stood back and observed. After a bit, I noticed that it seemed like Zenny was watching me intently. I moved around taking photos of her and each time, she’d greet the person, pose then lift her head and scan the crowd, stopping when she saw me. Finally I took my turn, handing my camera to a complete stranger. I walked up and she just kept staring. I blew in her nose, scratched her cheek then turned around. The next thing I knew, this big head came over my shoulder and pulled me in. I almost lost it then and there. It was like she was delivering bc a message from Buddy. When her statue was unveiled at Santa Anita I told Ann about it. Both of us teared up, and she said “I have no doubt that she was delivering a message- she does that”
So thank you Steve, for this article and allowing me to reminisce about this amazing filly- and it’s also my birthday today- I saw her 19th win on my birthday at Hollypark.
Wonderful story, Casey. I’m sure she felt a kinship with you and Buddy, and that’s why she did what she did.
Animals seem to see and know things that our brains are too cluttered to see.
Love it, Todd. Consider me one of the cluttered, as I unintentionally ripped off your wonderful comment. No more posting after migraines. 😘
Thanks. Loved your thermals analogy in your above posting.
Casey, incredibly moving story. There are many forces we smarty-pants humans cannot begin to fathom.
I think you just had a Happy Birthday! 🙂 Compliments of Zenyatta.
Happy Birthday Casey!
Casey, what a powerful, moving story! Thanks for sharing it.
Wonderful article Mr. Haskin thank you again for bringing back the memory of that incredible time with these two queen of the race track fillies /mares.
I saw and was immediately enchanted by Zenyatta as I live in California and frequented Hollywood Park, Santa Anita racetrack and Delmar so for that alone, I saw her races in person and when they had her retirement day at Santa Anita, of course I attended her retirement celebration. Z was very inspirational and I was there the day that The beautiful singer who wrote the song Zenyatta Queen of Racing seeing her sing it in person at the track . she’s now passed, and it was very sad to lose her.
I must add on a very personal note .when I was diagnosed with cancer and was going through my chemotherapy treatment Every time I went down to the office for those treatments. I played the song on my iPhone to gear up to give myself courage and the will to fight just like Zenyatta did .
I still tear up whenever I hear that song and I play it still when I go for my six months check ups so that’s been since 2016 .as for Rachel she was amazing and I loved her too. I never wanted them to run against each other. I prayed that they wouldn’t. I felt each stood on her own and I never wanted to see them compete. I was also very very lucky that I actually was able to meet Rachel Alexandra at her Stone Street farm in 2012 she was heavily pregnant and she endured Visits with her fans throughout the day. It was a Rachel Alexandra special day . . It was in October 2012. I have copies of Jamie Corum’s paintings in our library book roon\office\ horse monument photo room . Too many horse heroes from a older lady now to count , who never ever got to own a pony so I have a roomful to so many of them that I’ve loved long forgotten names of horses, some famous some not so famous.
This article that you wrote, it’s beautiful . How lucky and so privileged and how very special it has been to have known these beautiful mares in person. Thank you for sharing with us. And as a PS ……seeing today, the incredible statue of Cody‘s Wish monument I have no words cried like a baby when I saw it.
Long live RA and Z. I wish they had given RA and her legion of fans a proper send off. But to know they are both so well cared for and loved is enough. ❤️
Thank you for sharing your story with us.
Victor Espinoza is riding Keeneland….I’d love to see him get one more Derby mount—he’s very strong, very adept at breaking a horse fast and then “getting them back”….getting early pisition and settling…..he’s no Spring Chicken, but can still get one home on top—good luck to him!…..
Victor said in a recent interview that he was not riding as much and taking time to enjoy life.
He posts on FB from time to time and travels quite a bit. He is also still involved with the City of Hope charity (for children).
Just my thought that the accident when Bobby Abu Dabi broke down that the fractured vertebrae in his neck took more out of him than we might have thought.
Good to hear he will be riding for Wesley Ward at Keeneland this fall.
I’ve always admired Jess Jackson, but I cannot fathom why he allowed Rachel to be retired in such a sad, strange way. I loved her so, and that broke my heart. Thanks for a beautiful story, Steve. Both were queens, but Rachel had my heart.
Sad in a way, but not very strange. Most great horses simply retire without any parades. She was stabled at Saratoga a month after the meet closed when she departed for Kentucky. No way to really celebrate.
I didn’t even know they brought Zen back to Hollywood Park for a month, letting anyone that wanted to visit with her—-inside, for a visit..
Thanks for responding, Steve—- this made me feel a bit better. And thank you for the wonderful articles all these years. We have all learned so much about the sport and horses that we love.
I think it is sad as well Steve.
The Japanese certainly give their retiring horses quite a send-off, even the ones who are not champions.
Very kind of Jerry and Ann to give Zenyatta’s fans a chance to say good-bye.
Thank you for your memories. When Queen Z lost her last race I cried like I hadn’t cried about a horse since I was a kid, reading ‘Black Beauty’ for the first time and came upon the scene where Ginger was lying on the knacker’s wagon and saying ‘good-bye’ to Black Beauty.
Thank you for writing a wonderful article on these sensational girls. I liked and respected Zenyatta but Rachel has always had my heart. I’m glad it was not in the stars for these two to meet on the track, leaving each their own respective paths to greatness. I don’t think my heart could have taken it. I never got the pleasure to meet Zenyatta but I have gotten to meet Rachel and it’s a memory I’ll always cherish. Thank you again. It brings me joy to see hero’s still remembered.
Lovely post Brandy.
Thank you, Steve for your beautiful tribute to two of my all-time favorite fillies. I, among many, wanted to see these two match up in a race. Preferably in their 3 yo season when they were both at their peaks. Yet, I understand your feeling that maybe it was destiny that they didn’t meet up. It’s almost as if they each had respect for the other and didn’t want to sully their individual accomplishments. Yes, it does feel better that way.
Forever Young won BCC prep.
Going out on a limb…Sovereignty, Forever Young, Fierceness and Baeza my selections for the BCC.
The Cody Dorman, Cody’s Wish tribute is in place at the Kentucky Horse Park. The dedication is October 11. Jocelyn has created a masterpiece. Even in the photos, young Cody’s spirit shines brightly from Heaven.
Great news, Lynda. Looks like Forever Young will be in good shape for the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Can’t wait to see him.
Dewey, so far he looks great going into the BCC.
From time to time I was able to watch his workouts on X.
Think this is a great BCC field this year.
Looking forward to thoughts from others on here about the field.
With the monuments One of the most stirring pieces of art I’ve ever seen
Oh yes.
Tears overflowing here just looking at the photos.
Can only imagine the emotion seeing it in person.
Forever Young workmanlike but much the best. Pacesetter really strung the field out. All in all solid prep.
He has certainly blossomed during the layoff.
Thank you for all the comments. The emotional impact of both fillies makes their memory so alive after 15 years.
Loved this so much💜
Wonderful article, Steve. You brought back a lot of great memories of two fine fillies. I got to see Zenyatta race three times in California. Perfection!!!
Saw her also.
A great tribute to two magnificent mares. I admit I loved Rachel best, though — that black spot on her white stripe just did me in. On the other hand, Zenyatta could heal the sick! She’s a candidate for sainthood. Horses deserve it more than people.
I know there is much criticism of the handling of Rachel during her epic 3 yo campaign. Obviously, she was a shadow of herself the next year. Thorpedo Anna hasn’t been the same since the Travers. I’m sure those races took a toll, but often fillies do not come back to top form off of layoffs from 2 to 3, 3 to 4, or older regardless of their management. The reason we will remember Rachel, Anna, Lady’s Secret, Glorious Song, and many others is because they stepped out of their comfort zones and showed their courage. Even Zenyatta only became a legend by facing the best in the Breeders’ Cup. Beating the same 5 moderate fillies (cue the criticism) in California over and over didn’t make her great.
Todd, respect your points. However, my contention if perhaps overzealous connections skipped one of the three races with males, second phase of career possibly different. Thankful Zenyatta resided in a different barn.
Thanks Mike. As an animal lover, i worry about the horses coming back safe. As a racing fan, i look back at the great things horses have accomplished in my lifetime. There is always a conflict, and as i get older i am more risk averse, but the ones i remember really laid it out there. That’s why i was never really a fan of Flightline.
Flightline was special, but too few races. Agree with you.
Can Ewing carry his speed a mile and a sixteenth at Keeneland on Saturday or does Ted Noffey catch him near the wire?
Good question, TommyMcD. Looking forward to the Breeders’ Futurity w/ Ted Noffrey et al and the Champagne w/ It’s Our Time. Both races should be dandies.
I don’t know how it could possibly have been fifteen years ago…
Once again, thanks for the memories!!
A wonderful tribute to them both. My heart will always be with Rachel Alexandra and I wept when you wrote that she didn’t leave the track with the cheers that she deserved. Zenyatta will also have a special place in my heart.
Disgraceful RA didn’t have the exit she so richly deserved.
A beautiful tribute to two classic girls and though I was a Rachel groupie there was so much to love about Zenyatta. When I visited Blame in Kentucky I told him he hadn’t gotten the credit he deserved after the Classic, but not to worry , there were plenty more good girls in his future.
What made the story easier to write was that Blame won on the 100th anniversary of Claiborne Farm.
Such a beautiful piece, Steve; I’m a bit choked up. I loved and respected them both, though admittedly I was truly in the Zenyatta camp. LIke you, I think it was ultimately fitting that they never met, that way perfection is assured forever.
Another classic from you, Steve, and the tears roll down my cheeks at the memories these classy ladies brought us. Thanks for the ride during their fabulous careers, and thanks for helping us revisit that those years were the best of times. We will never see a filly’s 3-year-old campaign like Rachel’s, and certainly no giant of a horse will capture us the way Zenyatta did, from her dances to her charges from the back. I was there to see her defeat. She lost nothing that night, only gaining memories for the ages. So glad the two never faced each other. It leaves their marks unblemished. May the two live forever!
Another tour de force of remembrance. Thank you
Thank you, sir. We never tire of tales of these wonderful horses.
They most certainly touched a lot of people. I favored both. Would have loved to see them run against each other.
Thank you Steve. Just thank you. They are so missed.
Masterpiece!!!
Rachel
And zenyatta ! Amazing memories thanks so much Steve !
Ahhh…thank you, Steve, for this wonderful remembrance. Zenyatta’s BC Classics were something else. I’m so grateful that my mom, with whom I shared nearly 50 years of racing enthusiasm, moved to my state just a few months before the 2009 Classic, so we got to watch it on TV together at her apartment after having spent so many years sharing the races over the phone, separated by two thousand miles. Sharing it with her in person was a joy.
What a wonderful article. You got me teary-eyed. I was a huge fan of Zenyatta. In fall 2009 I was in college in SoCal about an hour’s drive from Santa Anita. My boyfriend and I went to the Breeders Cup – I will never forget that Classic and how loud the cheers were when Zenyatta came back to the winner’s circle. I knew this was a historical moment of racing that I was privileged to be present for.
Well Steve, you done gone and did it agin, turned on the waterworks (in my sweetest Appalachian speak).
I could never have chosen between Rachel and Zenny, it would have been like choosing between my two Grandaughters.
No regrets here that they never raced against each other.
Rachel was the crown jewel of the East and Zenyatta was the crown jewel of West and both deserving of the crown.
Jess said if he had Zenyatta ..she would never run vs fillies, and he might’ve tried the Arc….
Matthew, if Jackson owned Zenyatta she would ended up gutted like Rachel after the Woodward. Everyone knows she wasn’t the same as a four old. Connections of Zenyatta placed her welfare always first. My comment few years ago with Pat McQueen indicated her connections were the gold standard of racing.
In my 60 plus years in racing, when fillies take on the boys and indeed win it still takes a lot out of them. Thorpedo Anna, the latest if which is good but has lost a step since the travers last year. I think she will run well in the Spinster and return to the Distaff which will a hard race but she loves Del Mar. with her new ownership partners I don’t know if she’ll run at 5 or not.
Agreed, good comments. RA faced males three times! Too much to expect from her without permanently emptying the tank. Never would Zenyatta fit with these connections.
In the winners circle picture, after The Woodward…Jess holds hid clenched fist in the air—Rachel’s head practically touches the ground..
Correct! RA was tanked.