Sunday June 12, undefeated Zenyatta will run for a record-setting 17th consecutive victory. She would pass Citation, Cigar, and Mister Frisky in the history books. Last year, the mare Peppers Pride retired undefeated with 19 consecutive wins…but she only raced in New Mexico, in restricted races for state-breds. Zenyatta has met and matched all comers, with 14 graded stakes victories including the 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic.
The Vanity Handicap (G1) will be shown live on TVG in an hour special from 4-5pm PDT (7-8 EST). Zenyatta won’t have it easy, with a tough field including stablemate Zardava (Rachel Alexandra’s spoiler). There doesn’t appear to be much speed in the race, which could make it difficult for her deep closing style. She’s also saddled with 129 pounds, 9 more than her closest competitor, and two others only carry 112lbs. At a mile and an eighth, will that affect her?
I doubt it. Once more, I think we’ll see the big dark mare crossing the wire first, with ears pricked, capturing our hearts all over again. Big props to owners Jerry and Ann Moss, for continuing to race the 6-year-old mare, and to trainer John Sherrifs for maintaining her excellent health and fitness. Let’s see how far into history this big mare can go!
