Zenyatta takes a bow at Hollywood

Zenyatta’s fans turned out in droves to see their star (Benoit Photos)

Undefeated champion ZENYATTA (Street Cry [Ire]), who saved her best effort
for last when defeating world-class males in the November 7 Breeders’ Cup
Classic (G1), was honored with her own special tribute at Hollywood Park on
Sunday.

The Horse of the Year candidate paraded for her fans following the 7TH race.
Just before Zenyatta appeared, the track showed a replay of her stunning
Breeders’ Cup Classic triumph at Santa Anita, where she flew from last to first
to remain perfect from 14 career starts.

With the stage thus set, the superstar strode into view on the track to great
musical fanfare. Exercise rider Steve Willard guided her through her easy paces,
attended at times by an outrider.

Zenyatta visited the winner’s circle one last time with Mike Smith (Benoit Photos)

Observing nearby were Shirreffs and his wife, Dottie Ingordo-Shirreffs, the
racing manager for the Mosses. Zenyatta’s groom Mario Espinoza and hot walker
Carmen Zamora were likewise recognized for their contributions to her success.

Willard steered Zenyatta into her customary spot in the winner’s circle and
dismounted, allowing Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith to climb aboard. Smith,
sporting the Mosses’ silks, gave Zenyatta loving pats on the neck as the mare
struck her statuesque pose for the cameras.

Zenyatta then departed the winner’s circle, rejoined by Willard, and made her
stately way back to Shirreffs’ Hollywood Park barn, where she has been stabled
throughout her career.

Patrons attending the celebration of Zenyatta received a DVD entitled
Zenyatta: A Living Legend, including interviews and each of her 14 starts.
Also in conjunction with Zenyatta Day, Hollywood gave away the “Girl Power”
poster popular at the Breeders’ Cup, with the “Go Zenyatta” exclamation,
featuring her lifetime past performances on the back.

Among those on hand was film star Bo Derek, a member of the
California Horse Racing Board.