We all appreciate very much what Dottie has created, bringing the voice of Zenyatta to her multitude of fans. We can also appreciate just how much work went into completing over a year’s worth of daily dairy entries, describing from November 1, 2010 the transition of a tremendous race horse to becoming a broodmare and, today, a successful one with a healthy colt by her side. For all of this we are grateful. Grateful, as always, for being blessed with owning this great mare since she was a yearling. Grateful for the treatment and training she received form John Shirreffs, Mike Smith and the great people at Barn 55. Grateful for all the terrific people at Lane’s End Farm, her current care-takers, doing what they do everyday for Zenyatta.
And certainly grateful to Dottie, our racing manager, who emerged to describe Zenyatta’s thoughts as if she could write them herself.
Well done Zenyatta!
And well done, Dottie!
With this website, we will do our best to continue to inform you of what’s happening in Zenyatta and her colt’s lives. Stories of interest will be published periodically with photos and news flashes as the events dictate. It probably won’t make up for the daily Diary that told her story so very well, but in the meantime, we hope you will continue to enjoy Zenyatta.com. We appreciate how much this community means to Zenyatta’s fans just as we appreciate how much all of you mean to her.
With gratitude,
Ann & Jerry Moss
———
Hello everyone!
We are constantly hard at work behind the scenes to make sure this website is running smoothly. We will continue to add photos, videos, and new features. Currently in the works is a forum where you can all share stories, memories, horse racing news, and all things Zenyatta. Check back very soon for updates!
Zenyatta’s Web Team
bridget seaman
I am so sorry to see the diary posts go; Dottie you’ve done a wonderful job speaking for “our girl.” We are all so fortunate to have seen behind the scenes like we have and we will miss these posts tremendously. Thanks to all for letting us be a tiny little part of Zenyatta’s life, and we can’t wait to see how that adorable little boy turns out.
Sue
Just remember, a picture is worth 1000 words!
Stephanie Q
Thank you to the classiest people not only in HorseRacing but outside of the sport as well. Thank you for sharing Zenyatta with us and taking time out of your busy schedules to make her fans feel appreciated. She has been such a pioneer in so many ways. I “like” other Horse’s Facebook pages because of her! I also appreciate that Dottie not only shared Zenyatta’s milestones but also educated us on the sport! The Diary will be missed but what a great gift it was to us!
Thank you Team Zenyatta!!
nancy in nj
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Moss – Nothing I tell you will be something you haven’t heard before; still, that doesn’t make it less heartfelt. Having followed thoroughbred racing for 50+ years, I have seen many of the greats. No one – not Slew, not Bid, or even the great Secretariat – stirred the range of emotion and connection that Zenyatta has. This is an amazing phenomenon – this Z Nation, Zsters, Dumplings. It is directly because of your generosity that we have been privileged to experience it. Who would believe that thousands of folks from all walks of life and all over the world would sit in front of their computers daily and hang on every word ‘written’ to them by a horse?! Incredible! Then, these same people would become friends (with dumpling tags and all) sharing good and bad because they have the love of a horse in common. Simply magic! That they could be driven to the depths of sadness thinking it all was ending…amazing! And, now, spirits lifted again with your generous promise of periodic updates…what a rollercoaster, as the thrilling ride with Z has been all along! Fun, fulfilling, breathtaking, heartwarming…
To you, Mr. and Mrs. Moss, more gratitude and wishes for continued joy and success than you could know. Thank you! (Mr. Moss, i will especially think of you on May 8, a date we share.)
To Team Z – all her connections – thank you for helping her to become Zenyatta! That says it all!
And, finally, to dear Dottie – I always knew this could not go on forever. You are such a busy person. I wondered how it would end. I so understand and am thankful for the enormous effort from you for us. The diary was always just an extra, the icing on the cake of the Zenyatta once-in-a-lifetime experience. Guess this is the last time for me to say, Dottie, as always, thank you for giving a most eloquent voice to the Big Mare and allowing us to believe that we are a part of her world. xxxooo
Love and High Hooves to all until next time. Be well! See you at the track!
Sarah Powell, Clemson, SC
Well said Nancy – you put into words so many of the things that I wanted to say. Hope they get the forum up quickly!
nancy in nj
sarah – thanks so much for the kind words. i rarely post and usually don’t get response… so this did make me feel good. i agree with you. looking for
ward to the forum. thanks, again!
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Nancy in NJ:
Wonderful post. Hugs, JB
Pam Homeier
Great post, Nancy. Exactly how I feel. I cried when Ruffian went down and again when they put her down. Same for Barbaro. I have been in love with horse racing for over 55 years. But I am sitting here crying over Zenyatta and she IS ALIVE!!!! Go figure. Thank you to the Mosses and the Sherriffs for sharing this horseracing world with those of us who would have no oppurtunity to experience it. I will look forward to hearing any updates on Zenyatta and her team and maybe reading blogs from these people who I consider friends.
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
Thanks for that, Nancy in NJ!
DmamaKlock
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Moss,
Thank you so very much for the post and decision to continue posting items and pictures. I do understand that Z can not receive visitors and this website totally (for me) replaces the need to go there and see her in person.
Dotty has just been wonderful. I did not realize how far back the posts go. Am reading back posts and enjoying that as well. ALL of this material is worthy to be made into a BOOK…….. the Story of Z and #12.
I also understand that there will be more changes in the mother-son relationship and this is life (really do not want the details of that chapter).
Thank you again and again for caring.
Barbara Wood (Texas)
Dear Mr. and mrs. Moss,
I woke this morning with a heavy heart, remembering that we were finished here. I almost didn’t even visit the site, expecting it to have vanished. I am SO RELIEVED to know that ALL is not lost.
We are so appreciative for what everyone involved with Zenyatta has given us: unprecedented access and inclusion in the life of the most famous horse in history. I have no doubt that reputation will remain intact.
Words cannot express our thanks for the uplifting and encouraging highlights to many of our days while many of us have experienced real difficulty. Just knowing that the site will be here still is enough. We don’t have to have daily posts to remain family.
I am so blessed to have a great human family, a great church family, a great water exercise family, a great Equi-Army family, and a great Zenyatta family.
A couple of messages–
@Trina–thank you for the lovely poem!
@Heidi K.–I will e-mail Diana S that you would love a Dumpling tag before BC 2012 and give her your e-mail if that’s ok. Love to all..
Heidi K (In Shock) (Vallejo, Ca.)
Barbara, that would be too cool. Thank you for thinking of doing that!
Catherine Wells
Thank you for sharing Zenyatta with us :)) She is truly a magnificent horse.
Alex Bowdoin, MA
Dear Ann & Jerry, Thank you so much for sharing your Beautiful Zenyatta with us her fans. Thank you so much for keeping this site open to us and posting news and photos when approrpriate. HUGS TO ALL
Lonnie
Mr. & Mrs. Moss,
Thank you for sharing her life with us as a race horse and now with her new little colt. Zenyatta means the world to me and I hope someday you will allow her to be visited at Lane’s End. There are a lot of people that never get to see her in person. Thank you, also, to Dottie for keeping up updated during Zenyatta’s pregnancy and when 12 Zenyatta came into the world.
Thank you.
Donna
Dear Ann, Jerry and Dottie,
For 4 yrs now, I’ve been a faithful follower of your lovely Zenyatta and her whirl wind rise to the top…her courtship of her fans on that journey has been amazing and brought much happiness to our hearts, inspiring many of us with hope @ a time when it was much needed…she has brought together all of us into one world..something hard to do in this day and time…I’m sure the day of her purchase @ Keeneland, you never thought she would one day rein Queen over some many people…lol…many thanks to you both for sharing her with us and a special thanks to Dottie for being the voice of our lovely Z..for sharing memories of a lifetime…You have all went above and beyond to make us, the fans, as much a part of Zenyatta’s life as possible…we will all miss her daily life and all of you, but we know that it’s time to allow life to return to normal…so again, Ann, Jerry, Dottie, John and all of team Z, many thanks for this incredible journey!…And know that there will never be another like this again in the horse racing industry, for Zenyatta has truely been a one of a kind ride!…D
Barbara Sanders
I was shocked to hear that the Dairy posts were going to cease just when everyones curiosity was at it’s highest with the arrival of Zenyatta’s new colt. I felt like I’d lost my best friend. It was the one place I could go to soothe away a harried day or to give some balance and perspective in a crazy world of tragic daily news. I realize now how much Dottie gave the world with her hard work and how much we all benefitted. Thank you Dottie for all your efforts from one sincerely appreciative reader. Thank you Moses for your continued efforts to keep us informed. I can’t tell you what a relief it was to awake @ 5:15 AM today to the good news that our updates will still be intact. Zenyatta has made thoroughbred junkies out of all of us. I personally go to Santa Anita regularly now, participate in photography day, have equibase e-mails tracking my favorite horses and jockeys, watch HRTV, have made many friends who meet up at the track and give now regularly to the organizations that re-home retired racehorses all because of Zenyatta’s website. HRTV and Santa Anita/Hollywood Park would be fools not to pick up where you have left off. They would stand to benefit a great deal with 100,000 already hungry fans dying for news and perhaps you all could get some rest after this very long campaign you have waged so successfully. Just a thought.
Again my appreciation Dottie for the cheer you brought my heart on so many occasions. The video of Zenyatta’s first run in her Paddock @ Lane’s End and those first pictures of her colt are seared in my memory forever. Reagan was right when he said “I have often felt that there is nothing better for the inside of a man than the outside of a horse”. Zenyatta has proved to be that horse for so many of us.
Judy Sims in Florida
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Moss (Ann & Jerry – I feel like I know you)
This is wonderful news and a very practical solution to keep all of Zenyatta’s legions of fans happy and informed.
You and the whole Team Zenyatta have always cared about the fans and I for one of the many am so grateful.
Dottie Shirreffs has done a hurculean job with the Daily Diary fitting it into her daily, busy life in the horse racing world. John Shirreffs is the best ambassador the racing world could have. He is always so generous with his time and access to his stable occupants in training and active racing. He’s a Hall of Famer for sure.
The horse racing world could certainly benefit from the example you have shown of how dedicated horse owners should conduct themselves. You have really set the bar high and all the fans love you for it.
All my best wishes to you for your continued success, happiness and good health.
Thank you again for sharing the great gift of Zenyatta to the world.
I am so psyched about now following the growth and career of the little prince. He is the most beautiful baby colt ever born (I agree with Jerry and you). Those Zenny ears and big bright forehead star will race into history just like his mom & dad. I feel sure of it.
Love,
Judy Sims in Florida
P.S. How are Stella & Violet? Give them a hug and kiss for me. A big hug & kiss to Sophie Shirreffs too. I just lost my adorable miniature Dachshund, Kuchen, who was 14 years and gave me so much love and companionship. Am so grateful that she had a good, long life, but I miss her every day.
I had horses when I was growing up (rode and showed 3 & 5 gaited); so I feel so blessed that I have shared both canine & equine love for most of my 71 years.
Eveline / Maryland.
Well said Judy, I’m so sorry for the loss of your little dachshund. They’re such a sweet and funny breed. Fourteen years is a long time to be together.
Judy Sims in Florida
Thank you, Eveline.
Susan Carothers (in TN)
Dear Judy,
I’m so sorry for your loss. I know how much it hurts. <3
Mary G
YES! I was afraid I was going to have to search high and low for updates on my favorite mare and her beautiful little colt. Thank you so much Mr and Mrs Moss for continuing the Zenyatta effect. I didn’t post alot on the site but I did follow the diary daily so it is nice to be able to continue to come and get my Zenyatta news here. Dottie–your diary writings were beautiful-you gave Zenyatta a wonderful and majestic voice to go with her high spirited personality and it was my pleasure to read the diary every day. Best to all (the Mosses, Dottie and John, Barn 55 team, the Lanes End family) and of course Zenyatta and her little colt!
Marilyn
I will miss the daily diary updates but kudos to Dottie for doing such a terrific job these past months! I am happy to know that we (fans) will be made aware of updates and given photos and videos to allow us to follow our Zen! She was and continues to be such an inspiration to so many! Mr. and Mrs. Moss, “Thank You” for sharing your Zenyatta with all of us. I know she is in good hands and will continue to remain so. When I saw the tears that Ann cried when she talked about Zen and her colt, I knew nothing bad will ever happen to Zen! Thank you for caring and again, Thank you for sharing!
Anne
I think we all knew this daily diary for Zenyatta would eventually come to an end. It is tedious work to put an entry in every day even more complicated when you have other important jobs to perform as a racing manager. I know some of the media and other people involved in racing were critical that people actually believed Z was writing this diary. I am relieved no one involved cared what they thought and continued the process. It has been a learning experience for those not involved with racing and fun for us that do. Refresher course so to speak. :>) There are always “neigh” sayers but we are glad you turned the other cheek and keep the entries coming.
Many have become good friends on this site as well and I don’t see that ending anytime soon. So many caring diary lovers whom ( with the help of Zenyatt’a magic) have made strong bonds.
I, too, appreciate the massive amount of time Dottie has spent and the generousity of Ann and Jerry Moss for giving us over a full year of updates and photos of the marvelous Zenyatta They certainly didn’t have to do such a giving gesture. But…we are so HAPPY that they did.
Maybe some day they will open the doors for us to visit this beautiful mare and share the magic of her being just as they have been able to do for the past 8 years.
Thanks again to all the members of Team Zenyatta. Good luck with this handsome boy and all the other foals that will be in her future. It has been a great ride for them, as well as, her true fans.
Linda Shull
Thank you so very, very much. To Ann and Jerry Moss – you are the greatest owners that any racehorse could ever have. To Dottie and John – can’t think of any more caring individuals and a great trainer and to Team Zenyatta – you are the best. We have been able to see racing in an entirely differently light than has ever been done before. Zenyatta and her little one need the time together without alot of human interference. She is a great horse and her baby is loved by all. We have all loved being involved with Zenyatta through all of your writings and really look forward to updates periodically. Take very good care of her and her baby and yourselves. Can’t think of a group of people I admire more.
Looking forward to Zenyatta The Movie!!!!!! Wishful thinking. She does rate up there with Seabiscuit and Secretariat and they both had movies.
DMCQ in AL
I posted on yesterday’s comments just a few minutes ago, expressing my appreciation for all that Dottie, Barn 55 and Z’s John, Team Z at LE, Mr. and Mrs. Moss have given us. Then with a heavy heart, I came back to this site to read comments.
It is such a joy to read this letter from Mr. and Mrs. Moss! What graciousness to let this site continue and all in Zenyatta’s nation to continue our conversations and also to get those gifts of updates. I’m celebrating! My heart is singing,”ZENYAYTTA! ZENYATTA! ZENYATTA! and little z too!” Zz hugs to all!!
Karen from Katy
Thank you, Ann & Jerry, for opening your hearts to Zenyatta’s fans. She is a national treasure who is truly loved. And thanks for continuing to allow us a window into her world. She is special beyond words.
sharon in seattle
Dear Ann, Jerry, Dottie and all of Team Z –
your graciousness, generosity and hard work are incomparable. Heartfelt thanks to all — see you at the racetrack!!
Bonnie
thanks to all of team Z for allowing us to be part of this wonderful team, we have appreciated all you have done. blessing to all and we will never forget our Queen and her team and now a beautiful colt to love also. Thanks again
SunnyBoyd
There’s always light at the end of the tunnel
Every cloud has a silver lining
You can’t hide a really big horse
The tooth of time gnaws on all of us
I’m glad you’re going to be around :)))
Julie Anderson
Two words….THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The diary will be missed, but please do keep us updated on Zenyatta’s facebook page. Also, I have heard no news regarding Tasty and if she finally gave birth. Can you please update us? Much love to all.
jeanne from vista
The diary was just wonderful! Thank you, Dottie, for all your hard work!! Would it be possible to have an occasional SHORT video of Z and B ? I’d just be “over the moon” to see the two of them romping together.
Thanks to ALL!!!
DebraZ
I saw my first horse race on tv: the Kentucky Derby won by Tim Tam. I was just a little girl. I didn’t miss another Kentucky Derby until I went to college. I loved all those horses and all the televised races, went to the local racetrack, but the horses were remote, unknowable personalities, until Zenyatta. Team Z has shared an amazing experience with us all and touched my heart forever. Long may she reign, may she have many great offspring. Thank you for your generosity in sharing her.
Susan from Fl
Thank you for sharing your Z, and to Dottie for being her words! It’s been wonderful to be here daily to watch this journey unfold. Enjoy the fans writings here, and all the extra west coast news! Peace & Happiness to U All!
Ronni
Dear Ann, Jerry, Dottie and Team Zenyatta,
Ann and Jerry – it is very clear that your horses are loved members of your family. They are indeed very lucky to have you in their corner doing what is best for them. While I know you are grateful to have Zenyatta, I’m certain that she feels the same way about you. Thank you for the unprecedented access to this great mare! You get my vote as the BEST owners in TB racing!!
Dottie – this diary was a labor of love for you. Thank you for all you have done to keep Z’s fans updated on her transition to her new life as a mom. I don’t think I can ever hear the phrase ‘TOO CUTE’ without thinking of Z.
Again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you! I’m forever a Zenyatta fan…..and I’ll be cheering for all horses racing under the Moss silks!!
Sandra Frey
If you would have told me 20 years ago that I would be pacing the floor and having sleepless nights over the birth of a foal in 2012, I would have said you were crazy. WOW! Thank you so much for your generosity and grace with sharing your beautiful mare and her experiences. ZENYATTA is just an incredible mare and I feel so fortunate to have seen her race and to have met her. I’ll be watching those BARN 55 horses and I’ll be watching for other ZENYATTA babies down the road. I love the horse industry and find myself fortunate to live in the heart of the Bluegrass.
Much love to you and yours!
Sandra
Kathy S.
THANK YOU Ann, Jerry and the Web Team for continuing to keep us all connected. A big thank you again to Dottie for all the work you did on the Daily Diary posts. No one else would have kept that going for so long. You deserve a break, but we hope to hear from you occasionally. We love you!
Shema Satya
Dearest Ann and Jerry, thank you so much for your loving message and reassurance that this forum will stay open. And I do wish Dottie a well deserved rest from being the voice of Zenyatta. She held strong and steady through it all and we are deeply grateful for it. And thank you Zenyatta web team for letting us know what’s in the works. We’ll do fine with this transition and look forward to more wonderful things Zen!
Lynn in Virginia
Hoof, Hoof, Hooray for Dottie, Ann, Jerry and all of Team Zenyatta for allowing us to share in Zenyatta’s journey. A special thank you to Dottie for the many, many hours spent bringing us Zenyatta’s thoughts in her diary. Zenyatta is blessed to have all of you in her life!