Crowning glory for Zenyatta
The seven-year-old notched up 19 successive victories before being edged into second by Blame in the final start of her career in the Breeders’ Cup Classic last November.
However, despite her lengthy winning streak, Zenyatta was beaten to the the title of Horse Of The Year by Rachel Alexandra in 2009 and Curlin the year before.
That statistic was righted this time though, with Zenyatta polling more votes than Blame in the awards which are determined by members of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, the National Turf Writers Association and the Daily Racing Form.
“You always hope,” said Ann Moss, who owned the mare along with her husband, Jerry.
“We hoped last year and the year before that as well, and we’re just so happy; she was such a gift. It’s a wonderful thing because she lifts spirits and fills hearts with joy and love,” she told www.thoroughbredtimes.com.
French mare Goldikova was also nominated in the Horse Of The Year category after winning the Breeders’ Cup Mile for a third time.
She received just five votes compared to Zenyatta’s 128, but she was crowned the best female turf performer.
