Happy Wednesday!
Last week was a special one for the web team. We packed our cameras and muck boots and headed to Lane’s End to catch up with Zenyatta and her boys.
We roamed around the paddock with Zenny and 13Z (with pockets full of peppermints), spent a day with Coz to observe his new routine, and took a lot of photos. In the coming weeks we’ll put up photo galleries and add new prints to the Zenyatta Shop. Also in the works is a video interview with Assistant Yearling Manager Cooper Sawyer—he’ll explain how Coz is being prepped for the next stage in his career.
Since it’s that time of year where we begin to make plans for the Breeders’ Cup, we’d like to announce that there will not be an official Zenyatta Celebration at the Breeders’ Cup this year. Instead, we’ll hold a special event online that everyone can take part in, from the races or from home. Details will be announced at a later date.
Enjoy!
-The Web Team and Team Z
All photos by Kyle Acebo
Louise Castello
Great Steve Haskin article on Monzante.
http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2013/07/22/monzante-s-death-a-disgrace.aspx
Janet Newman
High Hoofs to Steve Haskin.
I have to give some credit to Jim Rome, a part owner of Mizdirection.
I seen an interview he did on HRTV’s Across the Board and he talked about the downside of claiming and how he tracked one of his he lost in a claiming race.
He managed to buy him back and retire him to Three Chimneys. We need more folks who can look at these horses and appreciate all they did for them, win, lose or draw and make sure they do not meet the same fate as Monzante
Pati-College Girl(maybe)
The only huge downside to this is that there are so many farms that breed for quantity and not quality. There are more horses than people able to adopt them; the wanting to help from the general public is not missing, it’s just the ability to help that can’t seem to be achieved. I would take one in a heartbeat if I had the means how, but I don’t.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Janet:
Exactly. Hugs, JB
Trina Nagele in So Cal
It seems that Blood Horse has removed Haskin’s article. Did anyone save the text before it was removed?
Kathy R.
Dear Sheena: Re baby news – firstly great news on the new Royal Bub! Secondly, I can’t compete with twitter, but the major racing network down here (Skysportsradio) hasn’t even mentioned the story that has been posted above. And it’s not in the papers. The only piece I found was this one, quoting Neil Werrett and indicating an announcement would be made on Wednesday. Of course, nothing can stop a big horse stud from getting publicity! Anyway, here’s the piece from the Adelaide Advertiser:
http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/superracing/race-is-over-to-be-the-first-suitor-for-black-caviar/story-fnii0nd1-1226683405580
Hugs, KathyR
Kathy R.
Dear Sheena: Not saying that the news posted above re First Dad is incorrect, but there’s nothing on either Black Caviar’s official website, or in the news section for Darley Australia. Maybe they are just respecting the owners and holding off to let them have the pleasure of making the announcement. Hugs KathyR.
Pati-College Girl(maybe)
It may be an “Embargo” thing in Australia about the news. It wa the same thing when Animal Kingdom’s purchase by a farm in America and that farm put out an embargo on information until they posted it themselves or released an official press release. That’s what I got the gyst of from tweeting with Ray Paulick about it. Since the Blood Horse, and the Truenick sites are in America, the information embargo might not apply here.
Max
KathyR. Could it mean that Voila Ici still has a chance in the romance department? He’s still racing so that it might not work. Other love interest Saloon is out of the picture because he’s a gelding. Nelly may be retired but everyone is still interested in her.
Kathy R.
Dear Max: You may be onto something there: perhaps they have had to bring in some serious counselling for Voila Ici, and hence the need for the owners to be waiting until Wednesday (have posted a bit down below). Cheers. KathyR.
LeslieA
WONDERFUL pictures of Z and her boys, thanks!
Nice article here on Ebby:
http://www.timesunion.com/sports/article/Sister-of-Zenyatta-has-room-for-improvement-4677216.php
Maryp NY
Thanks LeslieA, it is a good one.
Max
Very good photo of Ebby, a real beauty like her sister. Somehow I tend to doubt that the Queen would resort to French curse words. More likely Z would be positive and just say – à la prochaine (the next time) – to encourage Ebby.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Leslie:
Love that photo of Ebby. Thanks. Hugs, JB
Patty E.
Thank you for the link to the Times Union article. I was one of the fans taking photos of Ebby before the Shuvee. I met a lady from Staten Island and a young girl who were also there to see her. Even one of the paddock security guards was looking forward to seeing her. Ebby is quite striking in person and looked fabulous before the race, fit and ready to run.
Jan S. / Houston
Thanks for the article Leslie. A nice read!
Debbie G/Kentucky
Congratulations to Will and Kate! I think they’re such a cute couple. She reminds me a lot of Princess Diana. She has her style and charisma. And congrats to Exceed and Excel, too. That’s quite a hot mama he’s getting!
Trina Nagele in So Cal
Dear Debbie, I so agree with you on all points!
shirleeinindy
Just saw on Bloodhorse.com that Orb is still at Fair Hill. According to Shug he is loving it. Seems like the horses that go there do very well.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Shirlee:
Must be a lovely place for the. Hugs, JB
judy berube from Rhode Island
Oops. Meant to say “for the horses”. Sorry. Hugs, JB
Brenda S. Fort Erie, Canada
Congratulations to The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of their son. Vic’s happiest weekend is complete, Ebby on Saturday and the the baby today. We both hoping for a princess but we are happy that there is a health Mom and baby.
Should we call him C13 until we get a name???
Trina Nagele in So Cal
Good one, Brenda!
Jan S. / Houston
Love it!
Brenda S. Fort Erie, Canada
OOps!! I should have said 13C.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
I think you were right the first time. Maybe Lane’s End does things differently, but when I watched some of the foals being born (at another farm), they always referred to them by Momsfirstname 13 (and that’s how I think I remember things starting out when Coz first arrived).
Kathy R.
BLACK CAVIAR NEWS:
Have just heard Sean Cosgrove on Skysportsradio (9.00 am, Tuesday 23 July). Sean has just spoken with Neil Werrett, principal co-owner of the mare, who has said there is NO official announcement – that commentary on twitter is NOT official, and that even the relevant studs have not been told just who will be the First Dad. Neil told Sean that an announcement will be made by the owners, after the relevant stud has been informed, on Wednesday evening, likely to be officially announced on Thursday morning. Aside from anything else folk have picked up on twitter, do you seriously think that Andrew Bensley would not be tweeting as if the world was to end if the First Dad news was official (I certainly don’t). Cheers, KathyR.
Janet Newman
One of the pitfalls we have to be careful of. I remember the same thing going around that Z had delivered a filly this year.
Pati-College Girl(maybe)
So we must wait some more; at least it’s tomorrow and not something like next week. The suspense is killing me.
Janet Newman
Big congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of their son.
So sad that Princess Diana is not here to lavish her grandson with the same love she gave to her two sons. She must be smiling from above.
Pati-College Girl(maybe)
Does anyone watch the series called “Under the Dome”? It got my interest up but I haven’t read the book it’s based on. It’s based off of a Steven King novel, which is probably why I haven’t read it, but for those who do, is the series better than the book? Does anyone know, because I want to read it, but I don’t want to waste my time if the series and book are completely different.
Barbara Wood (Texas)
Pati–my hubby is watching it now, but I don’t know anything about it.
Louise Castello
I’m watching it Pati and I love it. I also read the book and it does have some differences, but to me it is very good. I love the show and the book.
pam homeier
Haven’t read the book but am watching the tv show. Really like it. I am a Stephen King fan but usually tv and movies mess his stories up terrible.
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Kathy R Thanks for the true news about Black Caviar I had been searching her website and twitter for news but nothing!!!Been such an exciting day over here news is full of baby stories. What did you think of the cricket at Lords? heck there must have been some glum faces Down Under 3 to go!! hugs SheenaTell her to come and visit our Frankel!!!!
Kathy R.
Dear Sheena: The cricket news was just terrific – in my household we were just delighted that your blokes pulled it off – now just make it a clean sweep. Heard an interview a little while ago with Neil Werrett – they’ve not ruled out a visit to Frankel, but emphasised they wanted a proven stallion, not a new boy (which rules out some very good blokes, like So You Think, for example). And they also thought that we have some of the best right here in Australia so why go offshore. Incidentally, have you heard anything about More Joyous and More Strawberries? Those two girls are en route to Frankel from John Singleton’s stud. More Joyous is one of our best, and a favourite of mine. Hope they travelled safely. Did you know that our ex Prime Minister (Julia Gillard) was knitting a present for the little Royal Bloke? Hugs KathyR.
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Judy Goodnight God bless Sweet dreams Lots of love to Lola Mae and Charlie Wonderful day here today hugs Sheena
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Sheena:
Congrats to William and Kate on their new Prince. Can’t wait to see a photo. What will they name him? Love and Hugs, JB, LM and PC
Max
Here is an article about Wise Dan saving his jockey from a fall at Saratoga. Dan is a brilliant horse in every way.
http://blog.timesunion.com/horseracing/close-call-for-wise-dan-at-saratoga-monday-morning/9911/
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Max:
Wow, he’s something else. Hugs, JB
Trina Nagele in So Cal
Yes, Wise Dan is truly wise. Well done, Wise Dan!
Ann NC
Thanks, Max. Great read. Glad his trainer is also wise.
Good boy, Dan, good boy!!
Jan S. / Houston
WOW!! Wise Dan is a real hero!
Bluegrass Girl
KathyR & Max, Earlier I posted the Black Caviar story which appeared in the USA magazine “The Blood-Horse” They used as a source “ThoroughbredNews” in AU. I checked that source and they still have the story online. So, I wonder if the Australian source got a scope and now that the story is out, the connections are scrambling to put the cat back in the bag.Just a thought–
KathyR , they seem to be a reliable source of information. Your thoughts on them? BGG
Black Caviar to visit Exceed And Excel
22 Jul 2013 | By Rob Burnet ThoroughbredNews
It was announced on Monday evening that world champion sprinter Black Caviar will be mated with Darley’s champion sire Exceed And Excel for the 2013 southern breeding season.
http://www.thoroughbrednews.com.au/spring-racing/default.aspx?id=67661
Bluegrass Girl
Here is how they describe their publication
Welcome to Australasia’s premier source of Internet news and industry information.
ThoroughbredNEWS, owned, and operated by, Sydney based Rob Burnet, is published on the http://www.throughbrednews.co.nz and http://www.thoroughbrednews.com.au.
The news service is a world-wide media brand name, publishing daily news of Australian, New Zealand, and international racing on the internet.
ThoroughbredNEWS receives industry news and information from sources around the world, as well as creating and leading with industry information from racing and breeding throughout Australasia.
Ann Maree / Tennessee
Love this link, BGG! Thank you so much for posting!!
Bluegrass Girl
KathyR & Max
If the news is true, here is a great True Nicks article with photo.
If the news Is incorrect, it makes for an interesting read. BGG
Bel Esprit Winners Club
Black Caviar to Visit Darley Sire Exceed And Excel
Written by Ian Tapp | Jul 22, 2013 | http://www.truenicks.com/
Australian media outlets have reported that undefeated two-time Australian Horse of the Year Black Caviar’s first mating will be to Darley stallion Exceed And Excel (AUS) (TrueNicks,SRO
http://belesprit09.wordpress.com/2013/07/23/black-caviar-to-visit-darley-sire-exceed-and-excel/
Max
BG. No worries. It’s just like a movie or rock star, lots of speculation. I read one article that said that BC is “enjoying life at an unknown location.” Sounds like what the media used to say about Dick Cheney’s whereabouts. It’s all fun.
Kathy R.
Dear Bluegrass Girl: Call me old fashioned, but I really like to get the news from the owners/trainers. These owners have been very careful with the information regarding Nelly’s future, so I’m happy to just wait until they reveal all. Not saying those sites are in fact wrong, but so many people like to be first with the news these days, and like I said, I’m just happy to wait. And I particularly trust the folk at Skysportsradio (Benzley’s outfit). They have direct and reliable contact with all the trainers/owners Downunder, and go to air daily across the nation; they are our national racing service. So I go to them before anyone else. And Inglis are one of the biggest selling agencies down here, like the Magic Millions, so (and this is just me) I think they are only too happy to advertise the quality of their stock. But please don’t think I’m being snippy to you, or Pati. I’m just old-fashioned. Hugs KathyR.
Pati-College Girl(maybe)
Oh no, I understand and I am in no way insulted or hurt or anything. It’s perfectly alright to want news “from the horse’s mouth” so to speak. Maybe because I easily trust people and I just grew up with social media as a news outlet, I am more comfortable trusting of tweets from pages like the Inglis Sales page and BC3, who announced the information on their FB. Either way, we all wait with excitement with you and all of Australia; even though waiting sucks. :-D
Barbara Grimaldi
Is it true that some of you on this blog are thinking of getting together to save horses from the track–from the fate of Monzante and so many others? And that you are helping to get Sarbonne to safety and a new home? I’ve never read anything like that on this blog before and i’m just stopping in to say how impressed I am and grateful I am that you see the other side of racing and can help alleviate the pain. Not sure how anyone can resist the charms of Monsieur Bon Bon…so I wish you great good luck. Our group is busy engineering billboards in NM and IA near the slaughterhouses, among other things, so welcome to the fight!
love
Skip
Pati-College Girl(maybe)
Yes, we have some supermen and women on here that are organizing to help Sarbonne, El Vino, and other’s that need help. The Z family welcomes you and your workers to our humble home. There is always some horse that needs our help, and we all love the horse here.
I want to adopt one to be my college horse, but wanting is not enough for now. LOL
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Z, COZ, Prince 2 and Baby Z:
Goodnight. Sweet Dreams. Love You. Hugs, JB
sue and tony
Judy, we may have said it before but we love how you tuck these three in bed at night. We always smile when we read your post.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Sue and Tony:
Love reading your posts too. So much love on this Blog for Z, her boys and new Baby Z. Feel so blessed to know you and all the other Z’sters and Dumplings. Love and Hugs, JB
Allie in Texas
I too wish to thank the Zenyatta fans that work tirelessly to rescue horses. I cannot imagine how much time and effort this type of project takes. Thank you for your determination to help these animals. Also want to thank you folks for supporting “The Story of Mort and Omaha” now published on the Bloodhorse.com website. The story now has 532 “Recommends” thanks in part to you folks. I actually started the Omaha Project on the Zenyatta.com website. Zenyatta is distantly related to Omaha. Anyway researched the story on and off for 2 years, then Steve Haskin agreed to write the story. Sending virtual peppermints to you, Zenyatta.
Trina Nagele in So Cal
High hoof to you, Allie!
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear Terry Crow
After your talking about Afleet Alex, I had to go back and rewatch the 2005 Triple Crown Series. I really got to know Afleet Alex in the Preakness. What a horse, I sure do remember that stumble. Just Brought you to tears. I became so fond of him.. Tried to see him after he was retired but that year they weren’t allowing visiters at Gainesway.
He stood for so much and meant so much to so many people. Weren’t those 2005 races just great. Remember the Slogan “When Life Hands You Lemons Make Lemonade”
Remembering You Afleet Alex and Just Love Ya.
Hope some of your youngsters and family can do great.
Pati-College Girl(maybe)
Hehehe
I was always told by my grandfather:
“When life gives you lemons, throw them at the people who tried to bring you down.” But then again, he is a bit of a bully. ;-)
andrea
Holy God! Did Alex die?!? This sure sounds like it!!! Please clarify!!!
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Andrea:
Afleet Alex is standing at Gainsway Farm in Lexington, KY. Here’s there website with photo. He was my favorite contender in 2005 for the TC. He won the Preakness and the Belmont that year and was third in the Derby. Hugs, JB
http://www.gainesway.com/stallions.html
andrea
I know what he won. Thank You! The wording of Peggy (N) freaked me out. She is using what appears to me to be the past tense in reference to Alex. “Remembering You Afleet Alex and Just Love Ya”…sounds like an obit. No disrespect intended to anyone. Just emotion. That little colt was all out in the Preakness and showed the field his heels in the Belmont. I Love Him!
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Andrea:
He was really impressive in the Preakness; winning after stumbling badly. Courageous, talented boy. Hugs, JB
Ann NC
Thanks for the link, JB.
You are the BEST!!!
Hugs.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Ann:
Right back at ya. Love and Hugs, JB
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Andrea:
Afleet Alex is currently standing at Gainsway Farm in Lexington, KY. Here’s their website with photos. He was my favorite contender in 2005 for the TC. He won the Preakness and the Belmont that year and was third in the Derby. I personally agree with TC GP; he was the best horse in the Derby that year. No disrespect to Giacomo or Mikey intended. Hugs, JB
http://www.gainesway.com/stallions.html
judy berube from Rhode Island
Oops: Sorry for the duplicate post. Hugs, JB
Peggy (N) South Georgia
No, No, Didn’t mean to sound like that. He is well. At Gainesway i still believe. I was just talking about Giacomo winning the Derby in 2005 and completely dismissed Afleet Alex and what all he did that year. Didn’t mean too He was great that year and still is. Just wanted to remember what a champion he was.
So So sorry he is alive and very well.
Peggy (N) South Georgia
The people I was referring to his meaning so much to that year were his breeder and Little Alex. and his team. He not only was a champion that year but still is.
suew/Va
I LOVE Afleet Alex and really admire how he handled himself on the track. In my mind he should have been a TC winner …he was so talented.
Terry Crow
Peggy-Afleet Alex has been one of my favorites for some time. I understood your sentiments perfectly and agree completely with all of them.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Peggy and TC GP:
I agree with both of you. Think Afleet Alex was the best three year old in that group. Hugs, JB
Terry Crow
Judy-Even when you know, you never know.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear TC GP:
Amen to that. Hugs, JB
Pati-College Girl
Z Family,
My use of the English language has saved me again!
I wrote a letter to the financial aid office asking for more aid, any aid, and they gave it to me! It brought me down to a much easier amount to collect, and with the money we have saved now, it looks like I will be going after all. Kinda close there, but we might just pull it off.
I might get some sleep now.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Pati:
You go girl; proud of you. Love and Hugs, JB
Janet Newman
Dear Pati,
So very glad to hear this news. Super happy for you!
Giving you a big college hug!
Kathy R.
Dear Pati: Excellent news! Hugs KathyR.
Marshall (NC broad)
YAY, Pati!
Way to go! We are very proud of you; you are a very resourceful young woman with lots of talent.
Cheers and Hugs
Louise Castello
Pati, I am thrilled for you! You deserve this and you will do so good.
carol in arkansas
Yeah…Pati…..never give up
Trina Nagele in So Cal
High hoof, Pati! You go, girl!
Ann NC
Great news. Now, keep showin em what ya got!!!!
Have a super year, Freshman College Girl.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Great news Pati – congratulations on both your persistence and your convincing way with words.
shirleeinindy
So happy for you Pati. Good going. Now all you have to do is keep in touch with all of us here on the Blog after you go to college.
Rosemary McCauley
Pati – so glad your college plans are closer to reality. You are going to be one successful young lady.
Bluegrass Girl
Pati
Proud of you girl. Can’t wait to hear the college stories BGG
Terry Crow
Wonderful news, Pati.
Donna H
How does 13Z compare to Coz in height at the same age? He seemed taller from the beginning. Love the picture of Coz running toward the camera. He is gorgeous. From the pictures it seems that 13Z is calmer in nature. Just love watching them grow. Love you, Zenny.
Kathy R.
Dear vicki: Left you a comment on Scenic Blast on page 10 (think that’s the right number). Cheers, KathyR.
Kathy R.
Scenic Blast:
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/sport/a/-/racing/16206521/scenic-blast-on-the-mend/
Dear vicki: sniffed out this old piece which gives the details of Scenic Blast’s injury and has a terrific shot of him and his little mate Katut.
Cheers, KathyR.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Kathy R:
Thank you for this adorable photo of Scenic Blast and his buddy, Katut. That’s a very beautiful stall structure. Looks like some kind of stone. Wishing SB a happy, healthy retirement. Hugs, JB
Ann NC
Thanks,Kathy R. Handsome fellow and his buddy. He must have been a Turf Monster!
Marshall (NC broad)
Dear Kathy R.,
Thanks so much for the link to the photo of Scenic Blast and sweet little Katut. How adorable these two are.
Love your posts!
Cheers and Hugs
Barbara Wood (Texas)
@Pati–another answered prayer. You just made my day. Your news along with the news that the slaughter permit for New Mexico has been denied after Robert Redford and Gov. Richardson came on board to speak out. It was very close–scheduled to open Aug. 5. Shudder. Hugs to all.
Terry Crow
I’m still mad at Bill Richardson for not pardoning Billy the Kid when he had a chance to do so.
Marshall (NC broad)
Dear Barbara,
YAY! This is good news indeed! So happy that RR and the governor took a stand to stop the slaughter from proceeding.
Take care and hugs
Karen Thompson
Hello!
I thought I’d come and say hello having been tipped off that my “little” guy Hovis has made it all the way to the pages of such amazing racing royalty!
So amazing to realise he has fans from the USA and such racing fans too. I’m simply blown away!
Karen (and Hovis)
carol in arkansas
Welcome Karen…I for one enjoy the Hovis diaries immensely
Karen Thompson
Thank you so much! For the record despite Hovis’ much talked about distrust of thoroughbreds he would LOVE Zenyatta!
Crazy to think my little Irish bog trotting pony is sharing cyber space with one of the most amazing mares in history. Funny how life works out eh?
A few of you have asked about his books. As you may be aware 100% of the proceeds from his books go to an equine charity – Bransby Horses and both of his books are available from their online shop at http://www.bransbyhorses.co.uk
They’re also available from the online shop of the Uk horse and hound.
I hope we continue to entertain you with tales of his antics. We’re close to the 1,000 fans in his group so as promised in last weeks diary i’ll warm up the video camera!
Sue Fredrick Happy as a lark
Karen Thompson,
What an honor and privilege to meet such a fabulous writer. Your sense of humor has us all captivated……dare I say we believe Hovis is really writing this blog, ha, ha. You’ve brightened up many a day for me, I shall join his Facebook to keep in touch with everything he does. hugs
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Karen Thompson:
How lovely to see a post from you on Z’s Blog. I so enjoy Hovis and “his” very funny diary posts. I’m sure he would love Zenyatta.
Thank you for all you do for horses through your charity and thank you for Hovis’ Blog. I really enjoy it. Thank you to our Sheena for introducing him to us. Hugs, JB
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Yea Karen – it worked! So glad to see you stop by here :-) We can’t wait for the next installment! To the rest of the Hovis fans, he’s just a few shy of the 1000 mark on his FB page. There is already a short video of him in his field, and Karen promises more if he hits 1000! You do have to sign up for his group, but it was simply a “click” away.
Ann NC
Hello Karen ( and Hovis ),
Thanks for sharing all of your delightful adventures. We are fortunate that, Sheena and Max pointed us in your direction.
You both are just too darn cute!
Glad you found us here.
Trina Nagele in So Cal
What a delight to see your post, Ms. Thompson! We are all enthralled with Hovis and his Diary. Thank you so much for sharing him and his unique, humor-filled (or humour-filled) perspectives of the world. I’ve already joined his group. We owe many thanks to Sheena in Wales and Max for introducing us to your Hovis and keeping us up to date. I’m sure Zenyatta would be enthusiastic to be introduced to such a personable charmer too! High hoof (as Zenyatta would say) to you and your Hovis!
Terry Crow
Agree with all sentiments. Hovis is like royalty here.
Marshall (NC broad)
Dear Karen,
Welcome! You write beautifully and have a wonderful sense of humor. Love your dear Hovis, and look forward to reading his diary each week. Always brightens the week.
Please post often, and thank you for introducing us to Hovis. Hugs
Ann Maree / Tennessee
BRAVO TO STEVE HASKIN FOR SPEAKING OUT about the tragedy of Monzante. As many may know, he wrote an impassioned column abut “The Death of Monzante a disgrace”. Here is link to the article: http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2013/07/23/Monzante_1920_s-Death-a-Disgrace.aspx
As some may know, when the blog was first posted at BloodHorse, it was up for a very short time before being taken down by those at BloodHorse whose knees were no doubt just a little wobbly at the stark truth that Steve was speaking.
No more was the post taken down than thousands on Facebook and Twitter and everywhere on the internet started protesting. A few enterprising souls figured out how to retrieve a “cached” article, and the article circulated like wildfire on the internet, fueling more protests at BloodHorse’s timidity.
Reminded me of the Paynter episode when thousands of us protested at his being left off the Vox Populi ballot, and after being added, he was overwhelmingly voted the recipient of the award! This was a total new media phenomenon.
Both Paynter’s story, and that of this one about Steve’s article, took less than 24 hours to be “corrected”. BloodHorse has put the blog post by Steve back up on its site. Though it is a little late, I applaud BloodHorse for its courage, as well as that of Steve Haskin. Ironically, this little dust-up could help bring more attention to this sad story that needs to be told over and over so that needed changes are made.
Just a suggestion: As a thank you to Steve Haskin, may I suggest that everyone go to his blog site and comment there under the article. Our comments here would be interesting to read and share, but they will carry more weight (and mean more to Steve) if they are posted under his blog post.
The highest number of comments for a Haskin blog post were for an article he wrote about Zenyatta in December 2010. Over 500 (I think the number was 521) comments were posted for that one. It would be nice if we could make a statement that will be retained for posterity on his blog. This was a very important step in getting others in the industry to speak out on this issue. As we know, Steve is highly regarded and respected, and his bravery may help to motivate others to join the chorus.
Trina Nagele in So Cal
Thank you, Ann Maree, for letting us know that Blood Horse has restored Steve Haskin’s article after having removed it. I saw your two comments there (Delta Lady), and will go back to post a comment myself. You are right we need to make this a public record for all owners/trainers/racing officials/ fans to see now and in the future. Maybe we change history with retirement accounts set up when TBs are first registered and when they are raced.
Ann Maree / Tennessee
Trina, I agree about the retirement accounts. Unfortunately, the wrong people are in charge of determining when a Tb should be retired! All of the regulators at La Racing Commission had plenty of safeguards in place, and Monzante went through all the checkpoints, with additional scrutiny being exercised because he was on a watch list. I don’t think mandatory retirement at a certain age is the answer. We all know that horses can perform at high levels at advanced ages — look at Calidoscopio at 10, Cloudy’s Knight raced at 10 I believe, and other horses down through history. I think it’s more about each individual horse and someone who has the interests of the horse at heart .
Louise Castello
I am beyond excited about the outcry over Monzante’s death that has really put a spotlight on this side of racing. I’m terribly proud of what social media has done with this and of being a part of it. Also, I wonder if the breeders should have some sort of responsibility. Why could they not take a small part of the breeding fee and make it towards a retirement fund of some sort. I know Three Chimneys helped with Dyna King, the abandoned son of Dynaformer and I believe all these farms have a responsibility to these wonderful thoroughbreds they bring into the world. Just my thoughts. I am so glad to see so many in Zenyatta’s “family” taking a huge interest in this. It matters and it is important!
JSmith
I agree Louise. They are breeding a living breathing creature that could live for 30 years, for a job that lasts only 2 or 3 years. Safeguards need to be taken for the other 25. I believe that a fee should be taken every time the horse is bought/sold too.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
You all have inspired me to respond in some way. I did read Steve’s blog, but I haven’t yet figured out what it is you need to do to post a response. I’ll give it a shot.
sheena.davies(wales)
dear Barbara that’s great news. high hoof for Robert Redford and the Gov. Richardson!! hugs Sheena
Dear Pati The good Lord has answered your prayers. go Girl!!!! hugs Sheena
Terry Crow
I’m still mad at Bill Richardson for not pardoning Billy the Kid
Louise Castello
LOL! I’m with you on that!
carol in arkansas
Just read about St Nicohlas Abbey…..injured and retired…article made it sound very grave…PUSNA
shirleeinindy
Afleet Alex has a full sister at Stonestreet.
carol in arkansas
That would be Maggy Hawk’s 2012 filly….she was a big girl when born….MH is elegantly sized too