Filed under: Horse Racing, Sports Business and Media
INGLEWOOD, Calif. - There are no camera crews or autograph seekers, no more interviews about undefeated streaks or historic legacies. It's just a peaceful afternoon in Stable 55 at Hollywood Park, the once-bustling and now-tranquil epicenter of all things Zenyatta.
The powerful mare, who came this close to winning a record-setting 20th straight race at last Saturday's Breeders' Cup Classic, is resting comfortably in her stall after a mellow afternoon of light walks and carrot snacks. Despite a taxing week that included two long flights, unprecedented media attention and her exhilarating run in the Classic, she appears to be in perfect health and good spirits.
For the people closest to Zenyatta, however, the heartache is still fresh - and will probably linger for awhile.
"We wanted a fairy tale ending and we didn't quite get it," said trainer John Shirreffs.
The 65-year-old horseman, back in his small office on Tuesday, was consistently understated during the hullabaloo leading up to the race, but conceded that he's in a "quiet time" now, still sorting out the emotions after seeing his horse fail to win for the first time in her career.
"She showed so much heart and courage," he said slowly, referring to Zenyatta's thunderous gallop in the Classic, when she roared back from last place but was unable to nudge past Blame, who won by a head at the finish line. "It's one of those moments that have come and gone," Shirreffs said. "You have to feel it wasn't meant to be."
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Source: http://www.fanhouse.com/2010/11/11/for-team-zenyatta-a-quiet-time-of-reflection-and-uncertainty/
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