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The Zenyatta statue will be unveiled in Santa Anita’s Paddock Gardens area at noon (PDT), Saturday September 29. Watch the ceremony live here on Zenyatta.com courtesy of HRTV.
LEGENDARY MARE ZENYATTA TO BE HONORED FOR ALL-TIME WITH LIFE-SIZED STATUE IN SANTA ANITA’S PADDOCK GARDENS AREA, UNVEILING SET FOR SEPTEMBER 29
ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 14, 2012)—The legendary Zenyatta, winner of the 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Santa Anita and Horse of the Year in 2010, will be honored for all-time by Santa Anita Park as a life-sized statue of the great mare will be unveiled in Santa Anita’s Paddock Gardens area on the first Saturday of Santa Anita’s upcoming Autumn Meet, on Sept. 29.
Zenyatta, who at the age of eight is currently enjoying her role as a broodmare at Lane’s End Farm in Kentucky, will be joining two of the greatest horses of all-time, John Henry and Seabiscuit, as her statuary likeness will now join these legends of the American Turf adjacent to the track’s grandstand.
Named after The Police’s blockbuster album “Zenyatta Mondatta,” Zenyatta is owned by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Jerry Moss and his wife, Ann.
“Like the song written by Sting and performed by The Police, everything Zenyatta did here will always be magic for the entire Thoroughbred industry,” said Santa Anita President George Haines. “Her win against the boys in the 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic is considered by many to be the greatest moment in Santa Anita history.”
The incomparable Zenyatta retired with a remarkable 19 wins from 20 career starts and $7,304,580 in earnings. Although she was defeated by a head in her final start, the 2010 Breeders’ Cup Classic, her stature as one of the sport’s all-time greats remained undiminished as she was voted the Eclipse Award as Horse of the Year for 2010.
“The breadth of her accomplishments at Santa Anita alone is astonishing,” said Haines. “She won a total of seven races here, all stakes and six of them were in Grade I competition. Her story will forever resonate with our fans and we know we’ll have many thousands of people coming here over the years to admire her statue, which will be situated on south side of the Kingsbury Fountain, directly across from John Henry.”
Trained by John Shirreffs and ridden in her final 17 starts by Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith, Zenyatta made her third career start on Jan. 13, 2008, winning Santa Anita’s Grade II El Encino Stakes by 1 ¾ lengths under David Flores.
As was the case in her 2009 Classic victory, all nineteen of Zenyatta’s wins came in last-to-first fashion.
After winning the El Encino, Zenyatta’s subsequent Grade I wins at The Great Race Place came in the 2008 & ’09 Lady’s Secret Stakes, the 2008 Breeders’ Cup Ladies’ Classic, the 2009 Classic and the 2010 Santa Margarita Invitational Handicap.
“We’d again like to thank the Mosses for running Zenyatta here and we look forward to welcoming them back as we again honor ‘the big mare’ on Sept. 29,” said Haines.
Sculpted by Nina Kaiser, who also created the statue of John Henry, Zenyatta’s likeness stands at her height of 17.2 hands, and weighs 1,200 pounds, which is approximately what Zenyatta weighed throughout her racing career. Commissioned by Santa Anita, the world-renowned Kaiser worked on the project for more than two years.
Santa Anita’s 2012 Autumn Meet gets underway on Friday, Sept. 28. For more information or to make dining and seating reservations, fans are encouraged to visit www.santaanita.com or call (626) 574-RACE.
Kathy R.
Sign: Found this bit on Jackellbery on Skysportsradio:
http://www.skysportsradio.com.au/news/article.php?id=14668.
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
Great Article Kathy R.
Here is Jackelberry’s (sp?) win in the American St Leger 2012, a few weeks ago.
Great closing Euro style, such a talent.
Ioweyoubigtime is also a favorite of mine, ( a Dynaformer, boy)
but not a good match for the Euro’s in this race, maybe at the BC ???
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/videos/race-replays/USA/AP/2012/8/18/7/american-st-leger-s
Kathy R.
Apologies for the misspelling!
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
Oh yes, TC.
You answered my questions about the surface and how that work.
Makes sense, but too bad it is a secret and even the trainers don’t know what
is going on. An element of surprise so no one is able to plan winning except the ground crew and the mangement, HA HA !!!!
Max
TerryC. Is this confidentiality unique to California? They routinely advise in advance about track conditions in Canada and England. The English trainers plan their entries on that kind of information so that horses do not have to run on personally unsuitable surfaces. Today on tv at Woodbine they even disclosed how much fibre and wax they had used to redo the poly track in the past few days. They also tell when and how much they water the turf course.
Terry Crow GP
As far as I know, this information is not available unless you have an in. I think that Canada and England have got it right. A lot of information that might be useful to handicappers is not available. For instance, if a horse is a first time gelding that information is not readily available. There was a horse running on Saturday named Mr. Make Believe in the 5th race. He was a first time gelding but it was not mentioned in the program. I think a runner of this type should have a big “G” noted in the racing form.
Max
TerryC. Thanks for this. Interesting comment about gelding. Not certain if that information is printed in the Woodbine programs, because I have never seen one, but they mentioned on tv today that a horse was a first time gelding before a race at Woodbine. That information must also be widely known to handicappers.
signofthetimes; President Texas Chapter RNC
So how does a first time Gelding affect handicapping??
Interesting point.
Terry Crow GP
sign-You would think that the hoprse was gelded because he was difficult to manage. It would calm him down and make him more amenable to training. There are many cases when it has made a tremendous differance in the horse’s form. Just saying that handicaappers should have this info. It is up to them what weight they might give it.
Terry Crow GP
Note: I posted my version of the unveiling on the previous page.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
Thank you Terry! You were so kind to keep an eye on the carry on luggage that I brought Dottie’s gift in – it was too heavy to carry, needed wheels! – so I could video the unveiling! You are a sweetheart! ♥
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Karen G.; Have I missed your exciting account of the surprise Scrapbooks to Dottie? What page is it on? It has to be my age, perhaps my eyes, oh…..could be my mind too!! Thanks again for all you did on behalf of the dumplings and Z-sters. hugs, Sally
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
Terry – I know!!! So redneck of me, huh!??
Terry Crow GP
Glad to help. I was trying to figure out how you got it through the main gate. It was heavy.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
LOL! I just told security that it was a gift for trainer John Shirreffs wife Dottie – I told them to have a look inside, they said it was OK, it was for Dottie and the unveiling! Nice nice guys and so helpful too!
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
Terry I can just hear John grumble as he carried it out to their car after the long day! “Well she didn’t have to make so many books with so many pages!’ LOL! It was really heavy! LOL! but John Shirreffs, you are DA MAN! You got ‘er dun!! Thank you, too, for doing this for your woman on this special day for her! my heart :)’s ♥
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
And an eloquent post it was you fake redneck!!
Terry Crow GP
Sandy-are you responding to Karen or Sally? Karen has not yet joined the redneck club while Sally is as redneck as you can get.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
I was responding to YOU!!!!
Terry Crow GP
Well, I was a journalism major in college.
Kathy R.
Thought this article from The Australian on one trainer’s view was rather interesting:
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/turf-thoroughbreds/training-stayers-in-europe-akin-to-preparing-for-olympics/story-fnfbqh9b-1226483386021.
Just have to wait and see how his entrant goes on Cup day!
signofthetimes; President Texas Chapter RNC
Thanks Kathy R great article.
HRTV had some Euro trainers on talking about
How the train their horses, so very different from
US. The travel to many tack areas galloping all the hills
And dales and course, a different Course every day
To build stamina.
So much more fun for the horse as the do like
Variety and also better to make them less spooky
When things change.
Thanks for sharing this article.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
Anyone who would like to comment on Dottie’s surprise and reaction, PLEASE do! I’d like to hear your impressions – NOT on me but what you felt about Dottie’s reaction. I will post what I felt and saw, and I guess one could tell I was ecstatic, with me jumping into the arms of Ron Park from group events at SA with a huge hug! Shades of Sally Field – “SHE likes it! She likes it!” LOL! I don’t even know him, but he was so kind to let us use his table in the shade for Dottie’s gift, a place for Dottie to look through the books! Thank you Mr. Park! ( Another note – I had NO idea that Clockers Corner was so far away from Zenny’s statue! I have never been to Clockers Corner, always ‘hanging’ around the paddock and winners circle, I am so sorry everyone had to walk so far! I always thought that it was just right up the stairs from the fountain out front! DUH!!
Maryp NY
Oh Karen, I couldn’t wait until I found something about your presentation to Dottie and her reaction.
I looked in the forum and didn’t see anything and am so glad to find your post.
I will be looking forward to see the posts from those that were present.
God bless you for completing this project in spite of your personal obstacles. It was truly a labor of love. Hugs and blessings be yours.
Love, Mary
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Karen; Once again I’d like to read your account!! haha
I will keep looking. hugs, Sally
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
We’re all waiting to hear it from the “horse’s mouth” (that would be YOU) – tee hee!
Abigail from Montreal, Canada
ME TOO! I WANT TO HEAR EVERY DETAIL!!!!!
sheena.davies(wales)
dear kathy thanks for the article on black caviar hugs sheenaX
signofthetimes; President Texas Chapter RNC
Kathy R,
Left you a comment on page 6.
Kathy R.
Sign: thanks for that comment. Concerning the gelding, it always amuses me that on the form guides here (it may be the same over there) gelding is referred to as a “gear change”.
Darlene Daniels
I just want to pop in for a minute and say what a great weekend of racing! Only topped off by the most wonderful, fantastic unveiling of Zenyatta’s statue. SPLENDID!. To get to watch it live via internet was just amazing. Something I will never forget.
Karen Gogue: We watching from computer didnt get to see your presentation to Dottie, but it sure must have been amazing. Thank you so much for doing that for her, and I am so glad you are back! Hope to meet you at BC.
Ingrid: always nice to see your posts. Are you all settled in now, from your move?
Kathy R and Sheena. Love, love, love reading your post. It is so nice to have you both posting with us on this wonderful blog. Please keep posting, both of you. Hugs from America to Wales and Australia!
Terry, Trina, Karen, Jag: you are all were the only dumpling I recognized. You all looked like movie stars on the video cam! So much fun.
Have a nice day everyone!
Zenyatta, my angel, I love you forever!!
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Darlene Daniels; I too watched live on the internet thanks to HRTV. First I was not thinking and ran to the computer at about 10 to Noon Wisconsin time. DAH All of a sudden my mind woke up………Pacific ST. Now are they 2hours or 3hours different? I said to myself. Got back from errands and tried at 1:55 and whoopie, it was live!!! Yes, the statue of our stunning Zenyatta is just that; stunning!! It actually was a tearing moment for me with Z receiving such an honor; and of course for Ann, Jerry, Dottie and John. I attempted to take pictures of the screen……I will probably get all those pixels in the screen if I develop one! It is a memory of Z though.
hugs, Sally
Darlene Daniels
Sally,
Lol, I had to think for a few minutes about the time change and the daylight savings time and all that too. But I caught it all in good time. Wish you were coming to BC.
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Darlene D; Sure wish I was coming to the BC! May I ask you and others how much you think your total costs would be? Flight, tickets, a place to stay, way to get to Sanita Anita?, fun, food, can not forget that!! And of course Zenyatta’s party!!! ( Oh how I cherish our Zenyatta)
My dear BFF is in a deliema; she does not feel comfortable leaving her husband alone with his emphazeima(misspelled). Of course the cost entered into her mind too.
I’d really like to know though, because the BC is there next year as well!!!
hugs, Sally
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Sally – I did the same thing re the pictures. Mine don’t look too bad on the computer screen (a little blurry), but I’m sure that printing them will be a disaster.
Sandy
Terry Crow GP
Can’t leave you rednecks alone for a minute.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
LOL!!
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
What are you talking about TC??? I haven’t said anything “anti-redneck”” in WEEKS!!! :-)
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
TC; ha ha ha ha ha ha
signofthetimes; President Texas Chapter RNC
It was sooo nice, love Nina soo very personable
And a lovely picture of Ann kissing the statue
sheena.davies(wales)
dear darlene lots of hugs to you from wales am glad of all the photos and descriptions of Z ‘S big day at santa anita it must have great to see it on the website hus sheenaX
Darlene Daniels
Sheena,
I so wish you could have picked it up via internet. It gave me goose bumps and tears for sure. Absolutely amazing. Wish you could have seen it. But if, it is any consolation, you have inside information on many international horses, such as Frankel (whom I love) and Black Caviar (whom I also love), that we in the states dont get so much of. I was not to interested in internationa racing until about a year ago. But when Black Caviar and Frankel became such celebrities for their individual and amazing talents, I was hooked.
Have a wonderful day Sheena. I am so glad you love our Zenyatta and have found this blog and are joining us.
signofthetimes; President Texas Chapter RNC
Sheena,
How about Goldikova, winner of 3 breeders cup
Turf miles. That is you going to be a record to
Beat for many years for colts and fillies as well.
Too bad Snow Fairy is not coming to step up to
The challenge, so love her.
Terry Crow GP
Overall, Goldikova is probably the most outstanding career performer in the BC.
sheena.davies(wales)
dear darlene thanks for your lovely post I am also learning a lot more of US horses since joining the blog have a wonderful day as well hugs sheenaX
Kathy R.
Darlene and Sheena – big hugs to you both and to all involved with this site – agree with Sheena – I’m learning more and more about US and European horses – and of course the regular information on The Queen! Cheers.
sheena.davies(wales)
dear max have you seen kauto on paul’s seasonal preview he was acting like a 2 year old bucking and kicking I really hope he will run in the king george again!hugs sheena
Darlene Daniels
Sheena,
What time is it in Wales now. It is almost 10:30AM here in Indiana. I work midnight shift and I worked last night. Way past my bedtime.
signofthetimes; President Texas Chapter RNC
Sheena,
I leased a 17 Hand TB from his age of 17 to
23, he never grew up always a boy bucking and
acting crazy but loved his job and had a great
Work ethic.
Sounds like Kauto is all of that and more, just love
TB’s
Max
Sheena. Yes, I saw the video of owner’s day. Kauto looked as full of life as ever. His win last Boxing Day was one of the greatest races that I have ever seen. Now that Master Minded is on the injury list, who is Kauto tormenting while he trains?
Barbara Montanye
We are so proud and happy that our filly Love And Pride was able to win the first ever Zenyatta Stakes (Gr 1) on Saturday.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
YAY! You must be beaming! What a great day for you! Congratulations – you made history, the very first ever!! What a performance by LOVE AND PRIDE – her name is perfect for the first winner of the Zenyatta Stakes too! I hope you are on my video of the winners circle!
signofthetimes; President Texas Chapter RNC
Congratulations, she is a beautiful talented
Filly with lots of heart.
Hope you had fun at Santa Anita !!!!
Abigail from Montreal, Canada
Congratulations to you! I couldn’t help but think that in both her name and her win, she was a PERFECT initial recipient!!!!
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Amen Abigail (eloquent as always :-)
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Ditto to Abigail; WOW, congratulations
Keta
Barbara,
The perfect filly with the perfect name won the race!
Congratulations to you & your team!
This is now part of racing history: The first winner of the Zenyatta Stakes.
Keta
Terry Crow GP
Looking forward to seeing her run in the BC. She has shown an affinity for the SA surface.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Barbara M.:
Congrats to you, Love and Pride and all her connections. First winner of the Zenyatta Stakes and she won it very impressively. Hugs, JB
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
Congrats Barbara, for Love and Pride! And glad you have joined us in Zennyland, too.
Maryp NY
Congratulations Barbara! Love and Pride goes into racing history winning the first Zenyatta Stakes. Good luck in future endeavors!
Sue Fredrick Co-P WI Chapt.
Dear Barbara Montayne,
Hope you get this message I’m joining in late and catching up. I’m am estatic for you and your lovely mare. Indy is my very special favorite (have kissed his nose twice) and I so love and appreciate his kids and grandkids. He is a great sire and I couldn’t be happier that one of his lovely fillies won the first “Zenyatta”. Bless you and your lovely girl I hope she wins even more races. Hugs to you and give her a kiss on the nose for me.
Trisha-VA
Just look at our beautiful Queen. Immortalized in bronze, what a honor. Made me cry. She is soooooooo deserving. Beautiful pictures. Wish I could have been there and taken part in her great day.
Thank you to all who made it possible for Zenyatta to receive what she so truly deserved. She is magnificent.
There will never be another like her.
Love hugs and kisses to all
sue and tony
Amen!
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Trisha-VA Oh Yes, one deserving most beautiful and powerful, my Miss (now Ms.) Personality, Ms. Congeniality, horse of my life time, Zenyatta!!! (I never stop talking!)
Sally
signofthetimes; President Texas Chapter RNC
Dear TC,
Thanks so much for a great account of such a
Wonderful and special event. Soo glad they did
Not put tack On her. She is soo very beautiful and
Expressive.
Looking forward to KG and Trina’s descriptions
of the event and giving Dottie the scrap book.
Thanks to all of you for representing all of us.
Abigail from Montreal, Canada
Hi Dumplings!
I’ve just been reading through all the previous posts — great discussions, as usual. As I said earlier, I’ve been down with a nasty bug but watching the unveiling Saturday was such a TREAT.
I’m absolutely knocked out by the statue. The first few photos I saw I’ve got to say weren’t impressive at all. They were from the side and all you really came away with were Zenny’s ears — and they seemed somehow or other out of whack. But then the other photos started rolling in and I saw just how extraordinary the likeness is. And the details — the print on the inside of her horse shoes, the muscles and veins. And, of course, the kind look in her eye as she looks down at her admirers.
I’m dying to know how Nina got her dapples, coat highlights and the white on. I didn’t know that that was even possible in a bronze! I did hear or read her comments about the process — and how it was kind of a “shot in the dark” re: colouring & highlights — and she did say that she was prepared to scrap the whole idea if it didn’t look exactly right. (And how people at the foundry kind of wanted to quit because she was so exacting!) But I’d love to know more about this. It must be a first? Does anyone know of any other “coloured” bronze statues?
I certainly understood Nina’s anxiety about whether or not we would all like her work. When I first started doing my own art, I did mostly realistic pieces and got some commissions for newborn babies and deceased pets. It gave me so much anxiety because these were subjects people both loved & knew very, very well and you needed to give them the sense they were looking at the actual baby or dog or cat — and that it was exactly how they thought of their loved ones. It’s a HUGE responsibility, really and Nina did it so incredibly well, it’s just ridiculous. There are photos out now of Zenny looking down at Ann that are so like the REAL Zenny it gives me chills!
I’m going to discipline myself to come back here to the blogs on a regular basis. I’m not really a Forum person but here it’s like the “good ole days” and I’m reading messages from my whole Dumpling family!
Much, much love to each of you and hugs all ’round!
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
Great to hear from you Abigail!!! More folksy here than on your usual haunt. Anyway, where ARE all of these pictures of Zenny’s statue?
Keta
Abigail,
The blaze & white socks are unbelieveable!
I have never seen bronze done in this way
Keta
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Abigail:
Great to see a post from you. Haven’t yet seen Z’s statue. Will try to find a photo. Hugs, JB
Terry Crow GP
Abigail-We have missed you here on the blog.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
Oh Abigail! A wonderful wonderful post! Please come here to post – we have missed you here! Love ….
Barbara Wood (Texas)
Welcome back, Abigail! Most of us just don’t have time to visit the forum and various FB pages. I hardly have time to get to my own–lol! Hugs. Feel better soon!
Maryp NY
Yes Abigail, it’s wonderful to see your post here. You have been missed. This site (blog) is full of information and conversation and good feelings and laughs etc. etc. etc……
It will be great to hear from you more often.
Hugs,
Mary
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
Glad to hear from you Abigail and glad you got over that “BUG”.
Heard from Nina today, she is sooo very happy and very very very tired.
I hope she takes a nice long vacation. Living with that statue of Zenny for
a year, Wouldn’t we all love to have been in her house.
Thanks sooo much NINA, and loved your interview on HRTV.
The lifesize and mantel size statues are soooo very speical to all of us.
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Abilgail! So great to read your post. It must be a great responsiblity to create and present such a original that one hopes the owner will love. Of course in this case with Zenyatta she had All Her Fans too. I know I have been busy and not on here real often, but there is nothing like spending a little time here with the Dumplings and Z-sters. It still means so much to mean to be part of Dumplingland.
hugs, Sally
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
Abigail, I know I have seen a few ads for other “coloured” bronzes, but I can’t remember where at the moment. But that was why I mentioned it to Nina, when I was ordering my small one. I knew Zenyatta wouldn’t have her blaze, that was one of the things that made me pause long before committing, but I had read that’s not Nina’s preferred style. I added, “Hopefully you’ll get the opportunity to create ‘her’ lifesize, at some point.” And in Nina’s reply she said, “I think you can understand how difficult it would have been to get her blaze on a piece of that size, but as you say, perhaps I will get the opportunity to put one on a life-sized…!” I am so surprised and pleased that she did decide to “go for it” — and even dapples! I almost never think of Zenny without her blaze — it’s a bit like Harry Potter’s lightning-bolt scar, to me, in terms of identity. I really am looking forward to seeing it in person.
Trina Nagele in SoCal
Dearest Abigail, I love it when you post here!
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
“This is unbelievable! Oh you guys!” This was the first reaction I heard from Dottie as she opened her gift. Several times she uttered that and shook her head as she went through each page “This is just unbelievable, oh thank you, thank you!” “247 pages of LOVE” I told Dottie, from all her adoring Z dumpling fans everywhere. At first she didn’t quite get what the books were about – she had not read my introduction – then she saw your photos and comments and disbelief seemed to come over her, the fact that we did this for her and singled her out on this special day with this surprise. A surprise indeed! John brought Dottie up to Clockers Corner (he was just busting with pride, ear to ear smiles, like the cat who ate the canary!) as they approached, Dottie’s cute, oh so feminine self, said hello and was hesitiant (What is this?? look) I was so excited that I could not get the video camera in my hands fast enough and yelled “Heads up everyone – here they come!” We all yelled out “SURPRISE!!” As she got closer, I think we applauded. We moved away from in front of the table where the gift box was, waiting for her. Again, disbelief seemed to have her hesitate a little, puzzled She opened it and was really blown away! “This is unbelievable” with a “too cute” here and there! Over and over she said “Thank You! Thank You!” A few times I know she was close to tears and would touch her heart. I choaked up myself for a bit, I was so happy that she finally got this from all of you, she is so deserving of our love and gratitude. At one point she saw David – her sons photo in the book – and she did a double take! “OH David! I know him, duh!” We all laughed, she was too cute! She commented a couple of times that she had seen some of the photos in the book, but was blown away by your photos she had not seen – and to put your “Face” and comments to them was the perfect touch! It meant so much more … She said that the keepsake box of books would be a perfect coffee table book at home to share with guests! I told Dottie that I was her personal stalker for almost two years at the track, that she must have thought so many times, “There’s that woman again! Whats up with her!?” I always had the camcorder aimed at her everytime I saw her at the track and sometimes I did feel like I was invading her space just a little, never really in her face but yet always had the camera on her, and I know she must have wondered! But I pointed at the books and told Dottie that the collage of her in the book and other photos was the reason. More importantly, for the “Dottie” video I plan on making of this day. She was so gracious! “No, that’s OK” she said. I really wish we could have heard what Dottie said at the end to all of us. The music from the track was so loud, I know she thanked us and said a few words. (If anyone who was there, if you heard what she said, please post it for the rest of us. I would love to have that in the video as well) I do not know when or how long it will take me to make the video so you all can see what your page looked like, but there will be a video of each page of the book. 247 pages no less!! LOL! 247 pages that were a labor of love for me – and I’d do it all over again for Dottie. I am so pleased that she enjoyed receiving the books from you with such personal comments for her as the wonderful Voice of Zenyatta. Thank you all for making the day so much more special than what it was for her already! If I think of anything I have left out, I will post it later! (OH! John was snapping photos, maybe videos as well, just beaming for his wife! He was so proud and happy!) There are just too many people to thank here with help along the way, but in the video I will have special thank yous for you on the credits about some of your photos – after all, it would not have been what it was WITHOUT YOUR photos that you posted on the Internet! If you did not receive my e-mail about the books here is a brief description:
“The book is made up of three scrap books – the first one is tilted AT THE POST – MEMORIES “The best things in life come in threes, like friends, dreams, and memories”. The seconds book is titled DOWN THE STRETCH – DREAMS “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams”. And the last book is the final chapter of Z’s life on and off the track. It is entitled THE FINISH LINE – LIFE’S MOMENTS. “Life is not measured by the breaths we take, it is measured by the moments that take our breath away”. The books will be presented to Dottie in a beautiful keepsake box with the books inside. I will photo and video each page of the books and the keepsake box so everyone will be involved in the presentation. She never had a scrap book(s) like this before and from all of you – her adoring dumpling fans! It has been a long time coming, too many obstacles to mention here over the last year, but well worth the wait. I have been able to include 12Z in the books and Zenny’s life now at Lanes End, and Dottie’s ending of the Z Diary. Without that extra time, it would not have been as wonderful as it is going to be for Dottie!! Thank you all for your patience and understanding. Love and hugs, Karen” (The only thing that is missing from the books is the Zenyatta statue! I told Dottie that she can add that or I could do it for her)
I will post later my thoughts on the day overall of the unveiling of the beautiful Zenyatta statue that is the lovely Nina’s masterpiece! Again, thank you all for making the day so much more special for Dottie! Love you all!!
judy berube from Rhode Island
My Dear Karen:
Thank you from my heart for putting this whole thing together for Dottie. Thank you for sharing what it was like to be there and for all the hours of work you put into this wonderful gift. Looking forward to the video. I love the three “Chapter Titles”, especially the one about.”….moments that take your breath away”. There were so many times that Zenyatta had that effect on me. Thank you again so much. You’re the best. Love and Hugs, JB
Keta
Karen,
My post below was done at the same time as this one from you.
Thank you for letting me stand next to you through this.
It had to be such an emotional moment for Dottie & for you.
Thank you for all that you did to make this possible
Hugs,
Keta
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
Awwww! Emotional was the word indeed! And I don’t know what to do with myself now that there are no books to finish! LOL! In the end, all that mattered was that Dottie got her just reward from all of you and that she was taken aback by the love and the magic of the moment! Awesome Z power – the feeling was love, love, love – Dottie deserves so much more, but I really think she knows now just how much more she has meant to us all – our lovely Angel from heaven above … And years from now, we all will think of Dottie and smile with tears in our eyes, and will be forever grateful, and for HER love for us too as Zenyatta fans! Always thinking of us – that has never wavered, all the more reason to love her and thank her for the dedication she put forth for us for loving Zenny and supporting her througout her career and life now. What a great woman – a real life trooper for Z fans eveywhere! Indeed a truly great woman, so unselfish with her time and ever so gracious! There never will be another one like her in my lifetime – no, none will ever be like her again (well, Ann Moss is right up there too!) Bless you Dottie Ingordo-Shirreffs!
sue and tony
Karen, we are touched by your comments about our wonderful Dottie and the books you so carefully crafted. God Bless you both and all who are part of Zenny’s huge extended family.
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
Dear KG,
I have gone back to the diary recently and did not realize how real she made everything for us, all aspects of racing and soooo very special. The Sherriffs and The Mosses are the best. Oh yes, and of course Lanes End, too.
Their special caring efforts with Zenny, her friends and 12 as he grows into a
TB racehorse.
Wishing you lots of speed and a great turn of foot like
MOMMY has 12 Zenyatta.
The Kennedys in San Diego
BRAVA, KAREN! And what a perfect, memorable day to present your labor of love — the day of the unveiling of the sculpture and the first Zenyatta Stakes.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
Oh dear – there I go again forgetting! I forgot a most important part of the books, just now thought of it! So sorry!
Throughout each book, I included quotes from John, Dottie, and the Mosses from articles and from Z’s diary, with the post numbers of the diary after the quotes. Example – #247 etc. And a few memorable quotes from some of you too, like this from Trina as an example, “It seems that the magic of Zenyatta can be experienced and expressed but can not explained” There are a few more gems like that from you all that I included. I hope you will be able to read them on the video, when ever that is done! LOL! Too cute! blush blush, wink wink, high hoof! my dear John, hooves crossed, It’s me! hugs hugs and some of the cute handle names you all thought of during the wait for 12Z are included as well. In fact I think I got all of them – I hope I did not forget any that Dottie introduced us to! A walk down memory lane would not have been ‘right’ without them for Dottie’s memories!
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
KG,
What a great effort you made to make these scrapbooks for a very special person.
We were soooo lucky that Dottie was Zenny’s voice for a little over a year,
and now the news and everything, 12 Z and his friends and Zenny and her new friends.
Thanks so much for putting that all together, a very special gift for a very special person, from Zenyatta Land.
Terry Crow GP
Karen-I am glad you posted your version of the “Dottie Diaries.” The only thing missing was a description of the look on your face during the festivities. Of course, you couldn’t see it but I can assure you that it was priceless.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
What?? Goofy looking me?? HAHA! I was so happy that Dottie was floored by us!! It was priceless!
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
Dear Karen,
This presentations was sooo perfectly done by you and all of the dumplings. Your
definate labor of love for us, Zenny, Dottie, John, The Mosses and everyone who
participated/contributed.
Thanks so much for making this and pouring your love into it for all of us.
Sooo very glad that you are better and back videoing and snapping photos.
Thanks again you are a very special person.
Abigail from Montreal, Canada
Thanks for the full story, Karen. I’m copying & printing it for my Zenny book. (I bought a few photos over the years & will put them in a proper scrapbook.)
Wish I could remember what I said to Dottie……LOL!
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Karen, I am crying my tears now!! Tears of appreciation for all that you did, tears of joy, tears for our most wonderful voice of Zenyatta, Dottie. And for me I owe the beginning to all of this to my BFF, who told me to get up to her home early in 2009 to see Zenyatta on tape. I fell in love!!!! I am messed up right now.
You did get me laughing while I was still in tears thinking of you sneaking around Dottie to film or take pictures!! ha ha You did a wonderful thing and I will always be so grateful. Love has just filled my heart so much!!!
hugs, Sally
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
That’s great, Karen! Thanks for writing it all up. That was the other reason I so much wished I could have gone, yesterday. To see Dottie’s reaction to our gift. Thanks for your way-above-and-beyond work on this monumental project. Can’t wait to see the video results, but i will!
Sue Fl CPRC
Big Time Big Lady Karen Gogue you are the bomb. We all love you. Thank you for all that you do.
Sue Fredrick Co-P WI Chapt.
Dearest Karen,
Thank you so much for this special posting as we were just dying to know how it went. Thank you for making us feel so much a part of your masterpiece, even though most of us contributed a few pictures with a comment. You created the whole thing and put it together all alone, but continue to make us feel so much a part of it. I can’t wait to see the video and what the book actually looks like, but because of your generosity and sharing spirit I felt Iike I was there myself. It is a fitting tribute to “Our Dottie” and all she did for us after Zenny retired. She will always be special to me and so will you for including us in this wonderful remembrance. Hugs
Darlene Daniels
Karen,
Your presentation to Dottie was most likely as exciting as the unveiling of Zenyatta’s most exquisite statue. I have tears in my eyes and goose bumps all over and can feel the excitement, passion and love that was expressed to Dottie, from your description. Thank you, thank you, thank you so much, for all you did and worked so hard on for our Dottie. God Bless you forever, Karen,
Keta
Terry, Janie, Karen
Thank you for sharing this special day with us!
For those of us who were not able to be there, it gives that personal up-close
view–our own “Inside Edition”
Karen, what you did was bring happiness through an extraordinary gift!
So, please let us know about Dottie’s reactions and feelings and comments
JAG, where are you? You Judy are one of the key Dumpling voices.
Can’t wait to hear what you saw and heard.
So as the old Billy Idol rock-and-roll song goes: more, more, more
Keta
Pati- gradually losing sleep over BC!!!!!
Wow! What a statue! Deserving and fitting for the Queen!
I got a clean sweep on Saturday! 1st,2nd, and 3rd! In all of my events! Red did great and was a dream to ride. The judge was very fair and he told me that I handled him very well after the incident in the riding riding where a horse dumped his rider and almost ran into me and Red! I was very proud of him, and Red won Grand Champion for the entire season at Flintrock farm! We were so proud of him! He also one Grand Champion in the western division! So he is “Best in Show” for two styles of riding!
I am counting down the days to Breeders’ Cup. I cannot wait! All I can talk about is Breeders’ Cup and my mom shunned me from the dinner table yesterday because I couldn’t stop. Her beef with it was, in her words, “It’s always Breeders’ Cup or Zenyatta, Breeders’ Cup or Zenyatta, and I’m up to my ears! ” oops. X-D
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Pati:
Congrats on your great day with Red on Saturday. Wow! Hugs, JB
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
Whooohooo Pati – thata girl! Way to go! Can’t wait to see you at BC!
Terry Crow GP
Pati-Wonderful news. Congratulations!
carol in utah/soon arkansas
great job Pati and Red….
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Pati- I am so proud of you and Red. Way to go!!!
Keta
Pati,
That is huge!! Congratulations!
Now, you are going to have to start practicing a winner circle smile to go with
your racing silks.
I think you look cute!
Hugs, Keta
Sue Fredrick Co-P WI Chapt.
Patti,
Sending you big hugs on your big accomplishment. My daughter showed for years and I always loved going and watching her, although most of the time I was the groom and gofer. You did a great job, you and Red must be a real team. Hugs
Diana Stuart - There in Spirit!
Pati – Congratulations on an amazing day of winning! Very very happy for you and very impressed! Bring lots of pix to BC to share with us! (I live vicarioiusly through all of you ya know?)
dia – YAY – stu in tempe
Trina Nagele in SoCal
High hoof, Pati!
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Z Fans:
Here’s a photo of Z’s Statue if you haven’t seen it. It is glorious. Hope all of us can make the trip some day and see it at SA. Hugs, JB
Hope this works.
http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/s480x480/429181_478715508819324_1193811083_n.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.facebook.com/TheBloodHorse/posts/317493785016144&h=358&w=480&sz=52&tbnid=02ZL07EGIKcIFM:&tbnh=91&tbnw=122&zoom=1&usg=__pOccCqQ-Wnk0vCWekguHWoDMMKM=&docid=NgUtF3hvzvushM&hl=en&sa=X&ei=X9NpUNibAsOi2AW_u4BY&sqi=2&ved=0CFUQ9QEwDg&dur=3673
judy berube from Rhode Island
Here’s another angle. Hugs, JB
http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://laist.com/attachments/la_jimmy/zenyatta-statue1.jpg&imgrefurl=http://laist.com/2012/09/29/rafael_bejarano_heats_up_on_a_hot_d.php&h=422&w=640&sz=103&tbnid=f0lGWacIvvgh4M:&tbnh=72&tbnw=109&zoom=1&usg=__EpkGMVbrcHteLPnGEtzmEhpMVyQ=&docid=E6QBn-g5goR5hM&hl=en&sa=X&ei=X9NpUNibAsOi2AW_u4BY&sqi=2&ved=0CGUQ9QEwEg&dur=800
suew/Va
Judy, many thanks for the links to photos of “bronze” Zenny. She looks magnificient. Nina did an “out of this world” job.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Suew:
You’re so welcome. Really beautiful. Hugs, JB
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
Lovely photo, Judy B.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Sign:
Did you get the photo of Papa Charlie I e-mailed you. If not, let me know and I’ll send it again. Love and Hugs, JB
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Judy Berube; Hi; Hugs to you, these are great photos of our magesty, the Queen Zenyatta statue. You were able to get all of her with all those people! Sally
Terry Crow GP
Judy-Thanks for the links. Photos do not do it justice.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear TC GP:
I’ll bet. Maybe someday I’ll get there to see it. Hugs, JB
Sally B. (cherish Z- Wi.)
Judy B… Sue F. and I will have to start saving our pennys too!!
hugs, Sally
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Nina K:
Fabulous work. Thank you for capturing our Queen so very well. Hugs, JB
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Sally B., Sue F and Z Fans:
Would be so much fun to meet all of you some day SA. Hugs, JB
Sue Fredrick Co-P WI Chapt.
Judy B,
That would be a ball maybe we could shoot for the BC next year!! Hugs
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Sue Fredrick:
Hope so. Hugs, JB
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/editorial/news/article.cgi?id=31916
Trainer Larry Jones – I yelled at him “Welcome to Santa Anita!” He turned and smiled at me and said, “Well, thank ya!” What a cutie pie! I got his and Rosie’s autograph – I was not leaving there without them! LOL! I love Jane Wade’s photo of little Madison and Rosie! Too Cute!!
Terry Crow GP
Good job, Karen. Both trainer and rider are worthy of praise.
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
Love this one Karen, Larry Jones and Rosie are great.
HRTV did a great interview with her on Saturday, she was the “jockey” commentator as
Gary Stevens sat along side of her.
Vicki B. near Hollywood Park
Another news article about the status unveling: http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=20715
Terry Crow GP
A pretty accurate description of the event. Thanks for the link, Vicki.
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
So many lovely articles about he unveiling, thanks for finding this one Vicki B.
Trisha-VA
Karen
Thank you so much for all you have done to put Dottie’s scrap book together. What an undertaking and how proud you must be.
I hope to be able to meet you next year at the BC. I will be there to see the bronze. Just so sorry I was not able to see Hollywood Park before it was raized.
Love to all
Terry Crow GP
Trish-HP has not been raized yet and it may be awhile before it is. I would say that it will not meet the 2014 new year.
Max
Peggy (N). Odds just got better for Orfevre. Looks like Danedream is out of the Arc and the Breeders Cup.
http://www.rte.ie/sport/racing/2012/1001/339906-danedream-arc-bid-in-limbo/
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
EIA information, very sad for Danedream, article sounds like they (vets) riding the fence to let her go to the Arc
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equine_infectious_anemia
Max
The special vets have quarantined the track. It’s her connections who are hoping for a reprieve from the law. Unlikely.
Barbara Wood (Texas)
@Karen Gogue–it is YOUR account that takes our breath away. It was no accident that you took your time and chose the right moment to present the scrapbooks.
I do so wish we could have all been there. It must have been beyond delightful, and so are you for doing it. Can’t wait for the movie–no pressure,lol!
Also can’t wait to meet you. Big grateful hugs.
Rosemary McCauley-Pres./AZ/New Mexico RNC
I was lucky enough to be at the unveiling of Zenyatta’s bronze on Saturday. The statute is breathtaking in every way. And equally spectacular were the books that Karen created to present to Dottie. it had to have been an incredible effort and the work she put into them certainly showed.
BC is rapidly approaching and I am looking forward to seeing everyone there.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
Rosemary what a delight to meet you! I kinda lost you after awhile though! You are so too cute!
signofthetimes; President of Texas RN Chapter
Glad you had the opportunity to go to the unveiling and really love hearing
your experience, look forward to meeting you.
Rosemary McCauley-Pres./AZ/New Mexico RNC
Sign: BC will be here before you know it. Looking forward to seeing you there.
Terry Crow GP
Rosemary-It was a real pleasure to meet you and your son at the unveiling. Looking foward to seeing you again at BC.
Rosemary McCauley-Pres./AZ/New Mexico RNC
Karen and Terry: Thank you so much and it was my great pleasure to meet the both of you and Trina. I enjoyed being a part of the day and and look forward to a longer visit at the BC with everyone.
I have been remiss in my duties as a member of the RNC. Will post some RN humor soon.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
In the end of the day, it all belonged to our beautiful Zenny! She looks so proud – as I look at her I tear up, looking at just ME! showing her stuff for just ME! When I look at her I remember all the feelings rushing back from seeing her race and win, and the prance and dance for just ME! And visiting with just ME! on the backside – nothing else mattered then but just ME and ZENNY! And she let ME know that it was just for ME! Among all the hundreds that came to visit her, I WAS her only visitor at that moment, she made one feel that way, you know? And I feel that now too looking at the beautiful statue. Nina captured that too – just for ME! her loving fan. It is personal just for ME! I think that is what the true labor of love was in Nina’s work meant for ME, what she was trying to convey to us – THAT IT WAS DONE FOR JUST US WHEN LOOKING AT HER STATUE – for no one else while in her presense, just for ME! Thank you from my heart to yours Nina! You also made ME feel so special through Zenny – just for US!
Barbara Wood (Texas)
I can just see our Kari smiling down from above.
Karen Gogue / my heart :)'s ♥ (BIG TIME!)
Yes, I thought of her too. I included the beautiful photo that Cynthia H. had for the Cancer Walk last meet at SA into the books for Dottie – in a section called “a few of Dottie’s Z dumplings”. A Beautful red heart with Kari’s photo, sideview, of her kissing Zenny during her visit. Thank you for whoever it was for posting that photo on the Internet – I did get something from Kari – no photo though – just her grateful thanks to Dottie IS in the book. Thank you, too, Cynthia!
The Kennedys in San Diego
News on Paynter.
http://www.drf.com/news/paynter-develops-abscess-moving-new-bolton-center
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Kennedy’s:
Thank you for this link on Paynter. Hugs, JB
Dear Z Fans:
Thank you for all the posst from those of you who were there and for all the links posted about the unveiling of Z’s Statue. Really enjoy reading all of them. Hugs, JB
Barbara Wood (Texas)
Dearest Paynter, we are pulling for you and praying for you.