Zenyatta

Queen of Racing

Ask The Experts

Ask The Experts: Mike Cline, Part 1

Q:

What is it like to have Zenyatta at Lane’s End? How is she different than other horses at the farm?

Cassandra Gregory

Manitou Springs, CO

 

A:I started hearing rumblings that the Mosses were sending Zenyatta to Lane’s End shortly before the Breeders’ Cup 2010, and we had some staff meetings here at the farm about it. I’d been told that she had a huge following, and obviously i had admired her through the years in racing, but I don’t think anything that I knew about her then would have prepared me for where we are now, a couple years later, my experience with her, and what she means to so many people.

Zenyatta, 2009. Photo by Ann Moss

I remember she flew in on a plane to Bluegrass Field and was vanned over to Keenland on December 5th. I guess I should have gotten an idea about how it was going to be that day, because there were about four or five hundred people standing out in the freezing cold and rain and snow to watch her arrival. She didn’t disappoint; John Shirreffs came in with her and walked her around the walking ring at Keenland, and she was admired and photographed by everyone that was there. Everyone was genuinely enthralled by how magnificent she looked.

Again, I should have thought then, should have prepared myself… You always want to say that when we get her here, we’ve got to treat her just like every other mare. That works pretty well when you’re doing repro work on her, you have the blacksmith here trimming her, or you’re vaccinating her—you do treat her like every other mare. We have lots of nice mares here, and over the years we’ve had champions and terrific mares, but I must say that we’ve never had a thoroughbred stallion or mare that has the following of Zenyatta. Everybody told me that, but I had to learn it for myself.

Just being around her every day and being able to drive by her paddock, and listen to all the people that call in here and ask questions about her and follow her on the website… she’s definitely a rock star, no doubt about that.

The Mosses have been kind enough to let us do so many charitable things with her, be it selling halters or auctioning off visits, raising money for all kinds of different things. The last of which was some storm relief work that she did. It was their idea to have her here and to share with the horse community, and we have to sort out how we balance that. I know everybody doesn’t get what they want, but we try to be fair about it, understanding that she comes first. There are times of the year where you can come see her, and there are times of the year where you can’t come see her.

We see her every day and she never ceases to amaze us with the stuff she does, and she’s just different from other horses in a lot of different ways. Her feel for humans is totally different. We have lots of kind, quiet mares, but she’s thoughtful. I don’t think there’s any chance she’d ever bite anybody or kick anybody, and I think it was like that on the racetrack as well, from what I’ve heard.

Certainly, she keeps us on our toes here. We feel privileged to be some small part of her development, and we look forward to seeing her live out a long healthy life here and produce, hopefully, somebody that can keep up with her.

Note about visiting Zenyatta:
We understand the desire of many to visit Zenyatta at Lane’s End Farm. Currently, visits with Zenyatta are not available to the public. If the policy changes, the fans will be the first to know.

Our Expert

Michael H. Cline

Farm Manager, Lane’s End

Michael H Cline is the Manager of Mr. and Mrs. William S. Farish’s Lane’s End Farm near Versailles, Kentucky. He has held that position for 33 years and he played a key role in the design and development of the farm from the time Mr. Farish first purchased the land in the late 1970’s.

Mike is a local having graduated from Woodford County High School and attended the University of Kentucky. He is the proud father to two sons, John and Chad and one grandson, Charlie.

Mike’s family has been involved in the Thoroughbred industry beginning with his father John Cline, who managed Haven Hill Farm for Herb Stevens and his brother, Pete is the Manager of Shawnee Farm in Kentucky. Prior to his employment at Lane’s End, Mike was Manager at Big Sink Farm in Versailles.

Reader Interactions

879 Comments

  2. / Reply

    Barbara
    Happy Anniversary to you & Alan!
    Moving is not fun–but a great way to sort, reminisce, and get rid of lots of stuff.
    Did that twice in the last 4 years.
    Do not plan to do it again any time soon.
    Hugs,
    Keta

  3. / Reply

    Trina,
    Our keeper of dates & word smith.
    More great poems to teach us about our friends & their lives.
    Thank you!!
    Hugs, Keta

  4. / Reply

    That photo sublimely captures both her beauty and her kindness. I love her so much my heart could burst! I’ll have to miss this year’s Breeder’s Cup–first since 2009, her Classic victory year. I hope everyone has a fabulous time at the ZennyFest on Friday evening. I’ll be with you in spirit. As someone suggested, maybe that’s when the Mosses will announce Lil Z’s (12Z) name. Hey, why not name them all 12Z, 13Z, etc?!!! That would certainly stamp them as Z’s babies, but Bernie (and Tapit) may have a bit of a problem with it!

  5. / Reply

    @Judy Berube or anyone that can shed a little more light on this for me. I am elementary on this just don’t know much about this side of racing. With Gabby (Gabbiano) my favorite filly going into a maiden claiming race on this Friday. It said 40,00.00-30,00.00. They paid 40,00.00 for her (I knowfor sure) Can anybody just buy these maidens. The guys on TVG were talking about a couple of months ago that I Believe it was Kobe Bryant got his horse that was in a claiming race bought out from underneath him. They were talking about this big time. I know trainers like to go in and buy these horses and hope to make a profit from them. But, From the ownerof the maiden that in the claiming race. How does this profit them. Remember the movie I think it was Dreamer with Kurt Russell, The horse got claimed long story short just devastated his daughter….
    Could anyone explain this a bit. I know I’m out there on this one……….Sorry Just concerned about the beautiful Gabby.
    This is Gabbiano’s first Race. How do they know how good she is or isn’t? Or matter of fact any of these maidens

    • / Reply

      Peggy,

      I am anxiously awaiting an answer also, I never understood the claiming business either. I also dont understand how you could stand to see your horse claimed and not have any control of what kind of home it was going to.

    • / Reply

      Unfortunately it is all about money.
      A trainer has to claim the horse with an owner. The original owner puts the horse
      in for a tag, which lets all the trainers in the race know that she is up for “purchase”.

      Perhaps the original owner thinks she will not race well, or he has trained her to a certain point and wants his money in return.

      There may be a lot more behind it than this, too. Perhaps TC can embellish.

      EX: The Mosses put El Vino in for a $40,000 claiming tag as I am assuming he
      was not earning his keep.

      • / Reply

        Thank You Sign, This wasn’t very heartwarming news, but real, I’m sure. Oh Gosh, if Gabby’s claimed hope real hard she gets a good trainer

        • Dear Peggy,

          The whole claiming thing is very sad to me. But it is a part of racing that
          keeps things alive for some reason and I really don’t know why.

          I sure hope she gets a wonderful trainer and owner, too.

        • Also above comment to Darlene.

          Just a very sad part of the business.

        • Dear Peggy N, Sign and Darlene:

          Peggy, I saw your note on Z’s Blog. I think Sign said it all; it’s about money.

          The trainers and owners that enter their horses in Claiming Races are taking a chance their horse might be claimed. The only way in the case of a first time starter (Maiden) is to enter into a Maiden Special Weight (sometimes they even enter a first time starter in an Allowance ). Trouble is if the trainer/owner feels their horse isn’t up to the caliber of other MSW horses, they enter a Maiden Claiming. Some trainers and owners build their stables by claiming horses. Bobby Frankel was very good at it in his early days as a trainer. Some horses he claimed actually improved, stepped up in class and won under his care.

          It’s sad when the owner loses a horse to a Claim, but that’s what Claiming Races are. Sometimes owners will try claiming their horse back when it’s entered in another Claiming Race.

          There are even Allowance Races with Claiming Optional. So an owner and trainer can enter a horse in an Allowance Race with the Option the horse can be claimed at a set Claiming Price.

          I think Terry Crow could explain this better than I, but I hope it helped some. Hugs, JB

        • Yes Max,
          You are right, but he got into the “right” hands.

          Look at Bluesthestandard and what happened to him !!!

          Unknown pedigree, labeled a problem horse, ran in the BC
          and then cratered with suspensory ligament issues and almost
          ran with that, but was scratched. C. Mulholland watched him and was
          able to retire him, but he had huge musculoskeletal problems after that.

        • Thanks for further expanding on the claiming issue, Judy B.

      • / Reply

        El Vino won his last race before he was claimed. He was earning his keep. In fact he was so highly sought after that it was a five way shake. The Dumplings who were there the day he was claimed All reported the entire barn was “devastated” he was claimed.

        • So El Vino was earning his keep, and was highly sought after, and everyone was devastated that he was claimed — but they still must have wanted “the money” more than the horse, since they put him in the claimer, right? Doesn’t quite make sense, to put him in a position to be sold… and then hope he doesn’t sell, or be upset that he does? I can tell I am missing something to this picture.

        • Ashton,

          El Vino barley earned $60,000 and that was not enough to earn his
          keep.

        • Vicki B,

          Just a very sad business, claiming. And when they get to that,
          it would be better to retire them and let them get a second career.

          However, don’t think anyone would pay $40,000 for a TB that needs
          to be retrained so putting them into a claiming race is a way to recoup some of the money.

          JUST SAD !!!!!

        • Vicki B.

          When El Vino was put in the claiming race it was to sell.
          Everyone knew that he been very well taken care of and
          the his issues were probably minimal. That is why so many people went
          in on the claim. He was however
          easily intimidated so his racing potential was limited by his timidness.

        • An owner or a trainer is always upset when an old friend goes elsewhere. From what I can tell, I doubt that El Vino’s claim will be considered to be one of the better ones made. There was a shake to see who would end up with him, but I do not think the winner is going to make much from owning him. Chances are, when he is no longer an effective race horse, the Mosses will purchase him privately and retire him

        • Yes, I was just thinking about that TC.

          I am sure the Mosses will purchase him back and retire him somewhere nice because he was sooo good to them, but you have to “sell” the ones that
          are not earning their keep. The Mosses are soooo very generous with
          all of the horses that are touched by them and they really watch out for them.

      • / Reply

        Max, thank you for pointing how well it worked out for Lava Man to name just one of the many horses it worked out for. There are mutliple reasons to run a horse in a claimer.

        • Ashton,

          The horse has to get in the “right” hands and for the few that do.
          There are many more that don’t.

          Lava Man was a handful with a very strong personality. He really needed some special people to handle him.

        • Dear Max, Ashton, Sign, Peggy N, Darlene and Z Fans:

          It is true that Claiming worked in Lava Man’s case and it did also for many of the horses Bobby Frankel claimed.

          Here is a really old but interesting article from Sport’s Illustrated about Bobby Frankel in his early career. It espouses BF’s keen ability to claim a horse, step it up in class and win. It explains a lot about Claiming in general too. Hugs, JB

          http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1089221/3/index.htm

        • Dear Ashton and Max:

          I do think in a lot of instances a Claim is beneficial for the horse, but sad for the owner especially if it’s a Maiden Claiming race. If the horse is not Maiden Special Weight caliber then there’s no choice but to enter into a Maiden Claiming. So the owner might be very sad if he loses the horse to a claim. That’s the risk.

          Sometimes you will see a horse’s first few starts as MSW and then drop down to Maiden Claiming. That’s probably an owner’s way of trying his best not to risk losing the horse, but eventually he has no choice but to go in a Maiden Claiming Race. Hugs, JB

        • JudyB. Thanks for the article on Bobby Frankel. He was a very great guy. I had to smile when I read it, especially when he admitted that he could find only one “sound” horse among his 36. About claiming and everything else, nothing is ever certain with horses. There is always the surprise with these wonderful creatures.

        • Everyone remembers that Doug O’Neill was Lava Mman’s trainer when he improved to the point that he was a champion. Lava Man’s previous trainer was Lonnie Arterburn. Now, are you more likely to improve a horse previously trained by Doug O’Neill or one trained by Lonnie Arterburn? When Bobby Frankel first came west. he was known as a claiming trainer much as Mike Mitchell and Farrell Jones were. When Bobby started getting the good horses, his fortunes improved.

      • / Reply

        Sign, El Vino•Earnings:
        Career Statistics:
        •Starts: 12
        •Firsts: 3
        •Seconds: 3
        •Thirds: 2
        •Earnings: $107,970
        •Earnings Per Start: $8,998
        •Highest 101
        Earnings in 2012 alone-
        2012 Statistics:
        •Starts: 7
        •Firsts: 1
        •Seconds: 2
        •Thirds: 2
        •Earnings: $45,870
        More than enough to earn is keep.
        I am not going to debate this subject. I will say that the negative attitude along with constant inaccurate information being giving here is why so few post here and so many have left this site and stick to FB except for hit and runs to thank Team Z for keeping people up to date about Zenyatta and 12Z.

        • Dear Max:

          I love that article too. It’s from 1974; Bobby’s “heyday” and mine. Used to play any horse he trained. He was The Man in New York in the ’60’s. I continued to follow him when he moved to California in ’72.

          Racing hasn’t changed in the claiming game so the gist of the article still applies. He was not afraid to take a risk. Loved his personality and his love of horses. Hugs, JB

        • Ashton,
          I know that I am not the only one who came to this site knowing absolutely nothing about horses, racing, and anything else equine (other than there was a fantastic horse who lived here!). Given my lack of background for evaluating the merit of ANY post, I am very appreciative of those who are willing to make factual corrections and present “another take” on issues that are being discussed. I would hope that you could consider your contributions a “public service,” and I think it is sad that knowledgeable people have retreated to other venues (not accessible by all) rather than hanging in here and keeping everyone “honest.” I hope you will reconsider and come back more often!
          Sandy

        • Ashton. I always like to read your posts. You have a connection with and love of horses which shines through. Please do not leave.

        • Many consideration are involved when it comes to the claiming game. I do not know the age of El Vino, but that would certainly be a factor along with his physical condition. As I recall, El Vino was taken to a differant venue to race. Was it because his trainer was going to that track or was it because, after evaluating him, it was felt that he was no longer competitive on the big circuit. When trainers observe horses in the walking ring before a race, they are always evaluating the horses. Of course, if the trainer is looking for a horse for an owner new to the game, that is a wild carrd.

        • If people want to go to facebook because they feel that the persons there know more about horses, that is their priviledge. But, it is not because there are not knowledgeable people on the blog.

        • Thanks TC for saying what I was thinking.

          It is as ” honest ” as it gets here. You would NOT want some of the delivery that is given by some horsemen and woman. It can get brutal when you are working w/ 1000lb plus animals. Sometimes your life depends on swift,to the point delivery of advise,when working around horses.

          Most advise given here is given w/ kindness and caring.

          This is a very warm and sincere group of folks…humble. Folks that think they know all about horses are foolin ya too! You always learn something new about them every new day.

        • Ashton,
          Thanks for reposting the eqibase information,
          But you forgot to include cost of keeping a race
          Horse, which is about 60,000 to $120,000 per
          Year, which is a total of $180 to 220,000 for three
          Years.

          Sorry you are so discouraged by negativity, I
          Don’t find that so and have been on this site dice
          Nov 2010. Everyone has something worth while to
          Say on this site no matter what it is. I chose not
          To judge others.

          As for Facebook, I am very uncomfortable with
          It and think their is much less fact a d people just spouting
          Of without any basis only hear say. This site provides
          A lot of the meaty information related to TB, horse
          Racing, etc….

          Sorry you are so discouraged rather than up lifted and enjoying
          And having a great time with all no matter what is said.

        • Ann and Terry,
          I hope you didn’t misunderstand me. You both (and many others) make valuable contributions that are greatly appreciated here. However, there are others that we don’t hear much from anymore who also had great insights – especially to someone as new as I am.
          Sandy

        • Oh Sandy,
          It’s all good ,Sandy. I love it that you are learning about racing and want to hear it from many perspectives. You are delightful and love seeing your witty and informative posts.
          You are going to the BC,correct?
          I wish you a wonderful trip, you will have a blast. Please make sure to tell us all about it! I believe those are my best memories of the track,when I shared in the fun w/ a newcomer.
          You have always been kind and caring to all of us, I will always remember when you came to my rescue awhile back.You had my back,thanks!
          Thanks for being a great racing fan!
          For the most part,horse folk love sharing stories and generally can agree to disagree, while respecting each other.

        • Sign, I did not “repost” the equibase, I got interupted (my son woke up) while I was getting the link , so it showed up moments after yours. I posted it in reply to your first inaccurate comment about El Vino only earning $60.000. I did note that you decided to check the facts, saw your were wrong and then corrected yourself. I did not forget anything.
          I will state more clearly, on the day El Vino was claimed several of my close friends were there in the saddling barn, and they witnessed the actual handover. Thinking it would be the last time they ever got to see El Vino, they took many photos as well as one video of the entire event, from the saddling barn to the moment he was handed over. Knowing how much I love El Vino (he is a very “sacred” horse to me, as he was to my moma and her best friend) they shared these things with me. I have seen with my own eyes and heard with my own ears what was said that day, not to mention the agony on their face and tears in their eyes. I know what I KNOW, you can believe me or not. I heard it from the “horses” mouth! Please, when it comes to the this subject you know not of what you speak.
          Terry Crow,
          I do know that many who post here have a wealth of knowledge to share. If I had it to do over I would have left that comment out of the conversation. Sadly, for a number of reasons many have left. I did not intend to insult you or others. I enjoy your jokes immensely.
          El Vino
          is currently at Del Mar where very ironicly Cynthia has spent the last week. Cynthia and Maggie from backside55 visited him several times. Maggie shared photos from one of their days on El Vino’s FB page.
          Some of you may remember Cynthia’s beautiful account of the day EV won his last race before he was claimed. Dottie took her to the winner’s circle and gave here his winning trophy. In her comments she mentions how she felt bad, had not made her hair perfect, and would have backed out of going had it not been for her desire to cheer my moma up with photos of EV. I mention this to somewhat explain why he means so much to me,and if it had been about money, I would have been the first one here slamming them for it! Unlike my moma did, I do not see the world with rose colored glasses. I am a realist.
          Sandy,
          thank you for the virtual hugs you sent my way with your words. I will not soon forget it. I am far from a expert on most subjects. El Vino just so happens to be a passion for me and when it comes to him, I am.
          Judy B- I think of you and pray for you daily. Your links and wisdom are both so valuable here.
          Ann- I am glad you enjoyed the link. It has been a day of multiple ironies, that article was posted this morning.
          Max, thank you. I enjoy your posts. I did not intend my comment to read that I would never post here again. I think that is a form of manipulation to get others to take sides and beg the person not to leave. I can see how not knowing my intentions, it read that way.
          In general, I am currently unable to work awaiting knee sugery, otherwise I would not have the time to post here, check back later and respond.
          El Vino was not the only workmate Zenyatta had there was also Sarbonne , Aitcho and Theodora, the lone filly. Many are keeping track of EV and Sarbonne, my name has long been on the list.

        • Ashton-No offense taken. I wish that all who have left would come back. THis place is much more personal than FB, in my opinion. For one thing, we are not trying to impress anybody.

        • To TC and Ann,

          Thanks for all of the great compliments for our “group”. Everyone here on this blog contributes a lot no matter what level they are at in the horse game and there are sooo many knowledgeable people here. Lots of very good links.

          Facebook is filled with statements made without facts and a bunch of hearsay. We all need to pat ourselves on the back for the credible people we are and the great information that we share.

          HERE HERE HERE !!!!! TO ALL IF THOSE ON ZENNY’s BLOG.
          YOU ARE ALL A GROUP OF WONDERFUL, KNOWLEGEABLE PEOPLE
          THANKS SO MUCH FOR SHARING AND TEACHING ALL OF US

        • Sorry Ashton,
          I do very much know what I speak about El Vino.
          Just because I was not there in person on the day he was claimed.

          Steve very well described and defined him when he was Zenny’s work mate. He is a very timid horse and not very competative and some TB are just that way. The emotion that you are expressing is not that of the owners who knew they needed to put him in for a claim and as TC says will most likely purchase him privately when he is no longer racing.

          All of the emotion you express and upset BY FANS did not change the DECISION BY THE OWNERS to enter him “for a tag” so it is not relevant.

          A FAN BEGIN UPSET IS NOT THE PERSON PAYING THE BILLS TO KEEP THE HORSE AND TRAIN IT.

          He was claimed and is not running very well, but not all horses do.
          The Mosses will take care of him as they do with all of their horses.

        • Sorry Ashton,
          I stand corrected by TC. The devastion the Mosses must have felt when El Vino was claimed most likely had to do with his connection with Zenyatta.

          I am sure as owner’s it is tough to give up your horses, but there is a time
          and place for these things to happen and The Mosses will take care of him.

        • Thank you for posting this on El Vino’s behalf, Ashton. Like one who went before, you are the dearest and most loyal of friends. I believe El VIno would say, “Three Whinnies!” in gratitude, for your most excellent and eloquent remarks.

    • / Reply

      I remember the story line in Dreamer. The claiming business is very tricky. The fact of the matter is that I doubt any trainer would have claimed Sonador, if it were a real life situation. Here was a horse who had not run in quite some time and was coming off an injury. Also, because of the way this horse was being trained, it was doubtful anyone would have had inside information as to her condition. Strictly Hollywood stuff. Claims in maiden races are rare but it does happen. Trainers will seldom run a well-bred horse in such a race. If you study the Racing Form, you will find that most of the horses who run in these types of races were by stallions with a low stud fee or were purchased dirt cheap at an auction. The 40,000-30,000 designation is generally determined by the weight assignment and age of the horse. The less weight, the lower the claiming price.

      • / Reply

        Dear TC GP:

        Thank you for elaborating on how Claiming works. You explained what’s involved with it much better than I. Hugs, JB

      • / Reply

        Thanks so much, TC. So very much appreciate your
        Realistic, honest and indepth view of horse racing and all
        Sides of it.

        Claiming business is discouraging!!

        • I must take exception to the descrption of El VIno as being a “timid” horse and “not competitive.” I see nothing of these two particular traits in him.

        • It should be noted, the descriptions of EV as being “timid” and “not competitive” were stated by Steve Willard,when EV was training w/Z. A younger EV.

          I believe,Sign noted that above.

          Good to know,w/ age ,EV has matured and gained confidence. Is this a trait you see in him Cynthia?

      • / Reply

        Cynthia-I know nothing of the comments made about El Vino’s temprement. My comments were merely directed to the dollars and cents involved in claiming a horse for such a high price and whar can be expected to be earned from such a claim.

  6. / Reply

    Sorry, I just don’t understand this claiming for maidens. Do the owners not want or care if the horse get claimed. Just asking as I said I’m out there on this one. Would love for someone to explain.

        • Back in “the day ” this was feasible for more small town folks. Claiming a horse…out of love. Used to happen, believe it or not.

          The INDUSTRY has taken the racing world on a different path.
          Growing up, I remember horses being traded for services rendered,claiming before claiming was needed for survival of the industry.

          I wish more folks could claim a horse like this and make a living. The horse world would be better because of it.

          Spread the fun around.

        • Dear Ashton:

          Thank you so much for this link to a very heartwarming story. The Ayers are the kind of owners who combine the business with the love of their horses. Love stories like this. Thanks again. Hugs, JB

        • Ann,
          Great response. Too bad greed has taken over from caring.

        • Sign,
          I think the industry has gotten too big for its britches. Quantity is there, not the quality.

        • Dear Ann:

          What you said in your post on “learning something new” about horses every day is so true. That’s one of the things I enjoy so much about our back and forth conversations here. A wealth of knowledge of all things horses. Hugs, JB

        • It’s always enjoyable Judy, thanks to folks like you.
          Your trifecta sounds like the winning ticket this week!!!

          Hugs back at ya, Ann

    • / Reply

      The size of the purse as compared to what the horse cost the owner is a determining factor. It costs about $60.00 a day to keep a horse in training. Very few owners have an emotional connection with their horses unless the horse is a proven money maker. This game is not cheap and when you own many you have decisions to make. But, overall, very few maidens are claimed.

      • / Reply

        I guess that would be a claiming trainers fees. I am sure Nick Zito, Bill Mott and Todd Pletcher, John Sherriffs charge much more that $60 per day ???????

      • / Reply

        You are correct. It has been a long time since I was involved in the cost per day aspect. There are other fees besides the trainer, vet fees, shoeing, etc. that drive the cost up.

    • / Reply

      Peggy-Many horses remain maidens and retire as such. I forget the name of the horse who was featured as the biggest loser in history, but that was just one example. Trainers will tell you that a losing horse eats as much as a winning one. There are other expenses involved, such as vet bills, shoeing, etc.

      • / Reply

        SOOO very true. Many fans, just really can’t even imagine how much
        a horse “costs” per month. I have friends whose horses have had various
        issues some of which take a year to cure. So that is not only “room and board”,
        but no riding for a year plus vet bills.

        A sick horse can take a lot of money to cure.

  7. / Reply

    I believe Kobe Bryant’s horse I believe won that race and then was claimed from someone else. That’s why the guys from TVG were taling about it so as I hope I am remembering correctly

    • / Reply

      There is a whole political thing that goes into/behind claiming as well. Some people don’t claim off of others and vice versa. Van Belvoir talked a lot about it on HRTV when he was inteviewed as he just got into the California Claiming “circle”.

    • / Reply

      Kobe Bryant’s horse is an unusual situation. The horse was given to him and Pau Gasol at a Laker function. Neither he nor Pau ever had any intentions of being race horse owners. It was understood that purse money won was to go to charity. That would include the money for the claim, if there was one. Sign-You are correct. There is a ole boys club when it comes to claiming horses from certain trainers. Plus, it is not likely that a horse claimed from someone like Bob Baffert would improve in a new trainer’s care. These are all considerations in the claiming game.

      • / Reply

        TC,

        That is true, TC. Which I never thought about until you mention the trainer who had Lava Man before Doug O Neil and he became a champion under Doug O Neil.
        Some trainers are not able to connect and get at when makes the horse tick and I guess Lava Man really connected with Doug and his training techiques and his stable staff. And Doug’s right hand man who trained Lava to be a pony by making him stand for long periods of times with a saddle on. That is ingenious.

        I know from riding at one barn (Hunter/Jumper) where the trainer just took money and did not ride the horses or she bullied them into submission, which really did a number on their head. A person at the barn tried to make her cow poney a hunter/jumper. The trainer would bully the horse to jump and when the owner got on she got dangerously dumped a number of times and even had a neck injury.

        I went to another stable where the previous trainers horses were trained by another trainer. It was very sad because she had to undo all of the bullying that they endured by the previous trainer, but she was very patient and was able to get them to turn around.

        Training is an art. A trainer must have sensitivity, be a horseman and be able to speak horse and connect as a human. I so really love the line in a recent article about Jackson Bend. Nick Zito was going to take him on a trail ride to help him clear his head and also feel how he was feeling. What a very sesitive trainer. I am sure during that trail ride they were “talking” about all sorts of things.

      • / Reply

        Thank you Terry, Judy, Sign, Max, everyone this has been so enlightening. Loved this discussion, so educatonal. Gosh, though still want Gabby to come out of that race Friday OK. Just love her. She’s only 2. I got to know her. Just a connection there. Thanks everyone

  8. / Reply

    Wow, what an amazing weekend of racing! First there was a dead heat in the Travers and then Dullahan breaks the track record in the Pacific Classic. I’ve been a little down thinking about the horses forced into early retirement due to injury, but these two races certainly lifted my spirits.

    Happy Birthday, Shari! I hope it’s your best one ever.

    Happy Anniversary, Barbara and Alan! Wow, 46 years. That’s incredible. Congratulations!

    Beautiful poems, Trina, once again. I don’t know how you keep doing it. You’re such a treasure.

    Great jokes, Terry. I especially like the fly strip over the kitchen table. Too funny!

    • / Reply

      Happy Birthday dear Shair Voltz. Hope you have a great day and a great school year.

      Happy Anniversary Barbara and Alan Wood. 46 years is really something to be proud of.

      Trina, awesome as always. When is your book coming out?

      Debbie G, I agree with what you said about this past weekends races. They certainly put the excitement back into TB racing, didn’t they.

      Have a great day everybody. Love to all.

    • / Reply

      Dear Debbie G,

      I recently was reading this Zenyatta blog and also thinking of Court Days, when I went to sleep and I had a dream I must share with you.

      You and I were visiting a Old Mims farm and we were walking through pastures visiting with many horses, when suddenly we came across this most astounding mare. We grabbed each others arms, and said in unisone, could it be??? And yes, it was our beloved Zenyatta, We both started to cry, and said to each other, how could we have walked this far?, and Zenyatta walked up to us and nuzzled her neck to our heads. It was the best dream I have ever had.

  9. / Reply

    Oh, and I forgot to tell Mr. Grand Poobah Terry Crow and all the other rednecks here, I was in a hobby store today and they had a metal sign that said “Redneck and proud of it”, haha, thought of all of you when I saw it.

    • / Reply

      Keeping and training a race horse is about $5000 to 10,000 per month.

      So a horse has to earn about $60,000 to $120,000 per year to earn their “keep”

      El Vino earned about $33,000 per year average. First year he was Zenny’s work mate
      so he earned very little.

      • / Reply

        It is the Racing Industry. INDUSTRY.
        This industry is not for the faint of heart.

        Even as a spectator,it can be a thing of beauty and other times, a heartbreaker.

        • Ann-You seem to have the proper perspective on it. The days of small folks owning horses is almost over. We should get Anne from Paramount to discuss this as she would know more what the current costs are. My mother loved her horses and for her it was just a hobby. She never ran them in claiming races and, therefore, did not make a lot of money at it. She had a couple of good horses who paid the bill for all of them. If a trainer like Todd Pletcher cannot convince you that this is a business, then nothing can.

        • Thanks Ann and TC. Lots of great comments about Claiming from those with various aspects of experience in the business.

      • / Reply

        If El Vino was averaging $33,000 per year in earnings, and his connections decided that he had maybe two good years left, entering him for $40,000 makes perfect sense. His connections either lose a bit or gain a bit, considering the amount of purse money he is likely to earn and the expenses involved in keeping him in training. I suspect that the “devastation” that the Mosses eperienced when he was claimed was because of his connection with Zenyatta.

        • Oh yes, I am sure they were “devastated”, but despite his connection with Zenyatta they entered him for a tag ???? Your point is well taken, he will be watched and well taken care of when it is time for him to retire.

          Also he was soooo very well cared, it seems that would be attractive to a
          lot of purchasers.

          Yes, TC,
          I would love to hear comments by Ann from Paramount as well, someone who it seems may be involved with these issues presently.

          Thanks for all your sharing and comments about this issue. It is very confusing. It was really amazed at Rapid Redux’s owner and how astute
          he was at picking horses and how much he know about handicapping etc… I guess that is what it takes to be successful in the horse business.

      • / Reply

        Oh yes Judy B.
        Love that race, she is going to be something!!
        That Pulpit, he may be 18, but he can still do in
        The shed !!!
        HA HA !!!!

        • Dear Sign:

          So glad you got to see your namesake’s replay win. She looked like she was ready to go around again. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Sign,
      When I read her win in the Saratoga charts, I had to share with you.
      Thought it was exciting.
      Doubt there will ever be a racehorse named Keta or Marcheta-but you never know.
      It will be fun keeping track of your “baby”
      And, the Claiborne connection isn’t too shabby.
      Keta

  13. / Reply

    @Keta, Darlene Daniels and Debbie G. and anyone else my foggy brain might have missed–thank you so much for the anniversary wishes. Only two more days of packing!!

    I have to admit I don’t get the claiming business either. I don’t think I could ever do it. I also couldn’t sell cattle to auctions–mine would all have names!

    ‘Night all. Big and Little Zs–love you always.

  15. / Reply

    @Shari Voltz–I hope you had a very happy birthday and a wonderful first day of the school year. It will be fun to see your students posts here.

    @Barbara Wood–Congratulations on your 46 year wedding anniversary. I hope the rest of your moving goes very smoothly.

    I’m not familiar with many horse owners, but I think they have to look at owning race horses more impersonally than we “regular” folks look at having animals. I think once I had one I wouldn’t be able to give it up. I couldn’t look at it in a business sense because I would think of the horse as a family member. I think a lot of us here think with our hearts and that’s why it is so hard to understand claiming a horse. But, for some, it’s all business.

    • / Reply

      Dear Marty:

      You’re right. It is a business and as in any business, people are trying to make a profit. If you read the article I linked above on Bobby Frankel, it really gives an insight into all the aspects of claiming races from the viewpoint of the owner, trainer and the risks involved. Hugs, JB

      • / Reply

        Dear Marty:

        I agree with you. I would not make it in the business. I wouldn’t want to part with any of the horses. Ha,ha. Hugs, JB

        • Dear Judy,

          I got here late so have not looked at any links. I will go back to yours on Bobby Frankel. You are so great at finding things relative to the current topics.

          I’m also happy to hear that It’s Tricky is none too worse for the wear from her race yesterday. That was quite a performance from her after her stumble. Thank you, Keta for the update.

        • Dear Marty:

          I think you’ll enjoy the article. It’s from 1974, but it’s still timely. Hugs,JB

    • / Reply

      Dear Marty,

      I quess it is probally a good thing I am semi poor, (poor, in the sense I cannot afford to own a racehorse, even though it is a lifelong dream), because it would become my pet, and I would lose all sense of business.

      I was thinking of going into the goat business, the hog business, and the angus beef business, not too long ago, but I know as well as I am sitting here typing on this laptop, when market time comes, I will be crying my eyeballs out. Hubby, probably knows this too, which I have not received much support. I am almost 56 years old (9/22) and sometimes I feel like I am 8 years old again.

      • / Reply

        Hi Darlene,

        The goat business might be beneficial to your hubby, too in regards to mowing.
        When we first moved out to this area, there was a hog farm just a few miles away. When it rained or the wind blew just right, it seemed the hogs were in the yard. I think that would need to be a totally rural endeavor. Probably angus cattle, too., But a horse, total heaven.

        Aren’t the fifties the new thirties and the sixties the new forties? I, however, can tell I’m barreling toward sixty-eight like a freight train. LOL Keep that “young at heart” feeling.

        Have you had a chance yet to meet the people with the horses you were watching? I hope their conditions are still looking good.

        • You might be a redneck if your neighbors call you hog farmers and you don’t own any hogs.

        • Dear Marty and Z Fans:

          I’ve already “barreled along to 68” and I’m just hoping to keep “barreling”. Want to see the Prince in his first race. Ha, ha. Hugs,JB

        • Terry Crow GP, Ha, ha. Good one about the hog farm. I left myself open for that.

          Judy Berube– I’m with you about barreling along to see 12Z race….and 13Z, 14Z, etc.

  16. / Reply

    It’s Tricky Update! She’s doing well Beldame next?
    Teresa Genaro‏@BklynBckstretch tweet
    It’s Tricky doing well this morning; a few scratches, nothing serious.
    McLaughlin: “She was the best.”

    Brian Zipse‏ tweet
    Great news – It’s Tricky is doing well after her very eventful third in the Personal Ensign. Her connections are looking at the Beldame next

    • / Reply

      WHOOO Keta,
      What a girl, tough as nails.

      She has come so far with a great trainer and team.

    • / Reply

      No one seem to address her jockey except Kiran and without him she would have been riderless and not competative. To be standing up in the irons and having her fall forward, his balance was impecable. I don’t even think he lost an iron or even fell forward.

  17. / Reply

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Shari Voltz!! Hope you had a great day and will have many, many more! Take care and hugs!

    HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, Barbara & Alan! May you have lots and lots more happy years to come! All the best, always!

    Trina, again you hit poetic homeruns! Thanks bunches!

    Goodnight all!

  18. / Reply

    Mike, thanks again for taking the time to tell us about the Queen. Your love and admiration for her shows through and, yes, she is a rock star.

  19. / Reply

    Shari, El Vino had a special message for you and your class on FB. We hope you had the chance to read it.

  20. / Reply

    @Marty R./Peggy(N)/Marshall(NC broad)–thank you so much for the wishes. I gained over 2 lbs. from last night’s dinner, so will be working it off today, packing. Guess I’d better get to it. WIll check in later.

  21. / Reply

    Scott McKenzie died. He sang “San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair” My all time fave when growing up. It was the anthem to come to sunny CA . He’s with Phyllis now. What a pair. He was just the best looking dude, what a noble face. Beautiful.

  22. / Reply

    love reading all your comments guys.!great to hear about bobby frankel expect you know all about the wonderful horse frankel over here in the uk! such a pity there is a sad side to this wonderful sport. love to zenyatta and her little one more photos soon please!!!XXX

    • / Reply

      Always good to hear from our friends on the other side of the pond. Visit us often. We look forward to hearing from you.

    • / Reply

      Dear Sheena:
      Glad you enjoyed the article on Bobby Frankel. Love his namesake. Hope you continue to post her. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Yes, Sheena,come often.
      Loved your name….Dancing in the Streets! I hope we will be doing that,when our guy hopefully gets there.

    • / Reply

      sheena,

      Welcome to Zenny land and love to hear from those “across the pond”. Sooo very lucky to have that racing machine Frankel. He is really something.

  23. / Reply

    Paynter Sick Again!
    A.ZAYAT tweet today Tues. Aug. 28
    Paynter got sick again , very high fever did ship yesterday from saratago .
    Dr Cheney attended to him . We sent him to clinic 10 mins away

    • / Reply

      Dear Keta and Z Fans:

      Reminds me of Mo’s illness when they didn’t know what was causing it. Hope they can figure out what’s causing Paynter’s trouble and help him. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Gut feeling is that he had a big bleed and has not recovered
      He is having lots of infections from it.

      • / Reply

        I just read about Paynter. That’s too bad and I really hope they can figure it out and NOT retire him! Get well soon, Paynter!

  25. / Reply

    Thanks to Mr. Cline for giving us an insight to Zenyatta and what she means to the farm and to all of us who love her. No matter how much time passes, her star will never fade. She inspires me each and every day and will always live in my heart.

  26. / Reply

    I was looking at the photos of baby Z from August 11th. Watch baby Z grow !
    I just love the second one in.
    He looks so Zenyatta like. Its just the way he is standing.
    I love new photos. I will have to pin a few later.

  27. / Reply

    Oh, what a nice treat!!! New Photos from the Moss’s visit!! I love his neck and everything about him!!! He’s so regal and already has a presence about him!!! Oh wait, that’s right, he’s a Mini Me!!! LOL

  28. / Reply

    A lot of interesting comments about claiming races. There was a lot to read so maybe I missed it, but I don’t believe anyone mentioned one of the main reasons for claiming races is to try to have horses with the same/similar race abilities compete against each other. If there were no claiming races you’d have top class allowance horses, which are not quite stakes horses, racing against such a lesser class of racing talent that there would be very little point to handicapping. But no one who has a top class allowance horse, valued at, let’s say $100,000, is going to enter him in a $20,000 claimer and risk losing him for that low amount (and if they did EVERYONE would be guessing, and probably rightfully so, that something was physically unsound about the horse). So in theory, claiming races are matching “like talent” against “like talent”. A lot of times you will see horses that have tried Allowance races and can’t win so they drop in class and try a $50,000 Claimer…they still can’t win….so they drop again and try a $35,000 claimer…success they win. Sometimes you’ll see a horse win a $25,000 Claimer, the trainer races him back in another $25,000 and he wins again. Now where should his next race be? If the trainer puts him back in for $25,000 there will be a lot of people thinking about claiming him because there is a high level of confidence in the horse being able to win. So maybe it’s time for a class jump to a $50,000 claiming race? Is someone willing to pay $50,000 for a “for sure” $25,000 horse? Maybe or maybe not.

    • / Reply

      I am glad you brought this point up. THis is why, generally speaking, there are so many races written for claiming horses. When horses go through their conditions, non-winners of two, etc. most go to the claiming ranks. There is many a claiming race with better horses in it than some allowance races. Read the conditions of the race. You will be surprised at what you can learn from them.

    • / Reply

      Dear Especially Horses:

      You make excellent points. The Claimer is the backbone of the Industry. The majority of TB foals born each year are going to be Claimers. Very few, as you noted, are Stakes horses. So, although the Claiming Horses are the foundation of the Industry, they’re also the ones that are often considered dispensable and at the end of their careers need rescuing.

      Also, as you pointed out, even Allowance Horses end up dropping down into the Claiming ranks as they get older and often less sound.

      Aston posted a link to a story of how two owners follow their Claiming horses and are there for them when they can’t race anymore. Great story worth reading. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      GREAT !!!! Insight and thanks soo much for sharing. Claiming is very difficult to understand.

  29. / Reply

    Here are today’s redneck jokes. You might be a redneck if your screen saver is an image of your favorite barnyard animal. You might be a redneck if your family yells Whoo Hoo! Pork and beans again. You might be a redneck if your outdoor light used to be in a mall parking lot. You might be a redneck if the Ph.D after your name stands for post hole digger. You might be a redneck if looking at you reminds people of re-runs of Hee Haw. You might be a redneck if hitchhikers refuse to get in the car with you. You might be a redneck if you flatten empty beer cans so the baby will have something to play with.

    • / Reply

      Dear TC GP:

      Laughing out loud at the “reluctant hitchhikers”. Ha, ha. Thank you for being you. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      God LOVE YA TC!!!!!!!
      I used to LOVE digging post holes w/ Pops,w/ his ole Allis Chalmers tractor. I finally got my Ph.D. Mom will be so proud!

      My son just came thru the door yelling whoo-Hoo….his favorite greeting and the dog tails be a wagging! TC, thanks for planning dinner

      Yes, I am a RN!

      Judy…I like the hitchhikers too.They would have to sit w/ my dogs,all mutts,all slobber,all love.

    • / Reply

      Love these jokes, TC.

      Especially the PhD joke, piled higher and deeper it is !!!!

      • / Reply

        Sign,
        Piled higher and deeper…..LOL!!!!!
        It gets that way in the stalls sometimes. We just egg each other on,and we can blame TC!!!!!

  30. / Reply

    @Darlene Daniels – I love your dream! Wow, wouldn’t that be great if it came true? I watched the 2009 BC Classic the other night (for about the 200th time) and it just made my heart soar seeing Zenyatta in all her glory. What I wouldn’t give to be able to meet her in person. I’m barrelling toward 50, but seeing her makes me feel young again, too. (I hope you bought that Redneck sign. If not, we could probably find another one at Court Days!)
    @Terry Crow – Today’s jokes are hilarious. The Hee Haw joke brings back memories. I remember when I was young, every Saturday night my brother and I would want to watch Hee Haw, but Lawrence Welk came on at the same time and that was what my Mom and Dad wanted to watch, so they usually won. Time to go warm up the pork and beans. Whoo Hoo!

    • / Reply

      There is a redneck joke about Hee Haw being a documentary, but I have to admit that I loved that show. I would watch it today if it were available for viewing. Every big country artist of the time was on that show. One of the first shows I saw in Vegas was Roy Clark and I enjoyed it immensly. I don’t know why but I keep thinking about those hicks that slapped their knees.

Leave a Reply to signofthetimes; President Texas Chapter RNC Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.