Zenyatta Remains Perfect, Breaks Records!

Zenyatta and groom Mario Espinoza enter the saddling area.

It was awesome. There is no better word to describe the feeling at Hollywood Park this afternoon as Zenyatta powered down the stretch and past St. Trinians to win the Grade 1 Vanity Handicap.

It was the 17th win in a row for the still unbeaten Zenyatta, who has now surpassed Cigar, Citation and Mister Frisky for the longest win streak by a modern day Thoroughbred in races not restricted to state breds. Zenyatta also became the first three-time winner of the Vanity Handicap. And she did it carrying 129 pounds!

The excitement began building early in the day, as a steady stream of fans came through the gates and headed for the giveaway booth for their Zenyatta bobbleheads.

Zenyatta fan Gina Romero with her latest hand painted sign.

Zenyatta makes her way from the barns to the saddling paddock, trainer John Shirreffs (right) in tow.

By the time the horses entered the paddock for the Vanity, a massive crowd had assembled along the rail surrounding the expansive saddling area. They also lined the stairways and balconies overlooking the paddock, hoping to get a glimpse of the great mare.

Zenyatta prances in the paddock for throngs of spectators.

Jockey Mike Smith up, Zenyatta heads into the post parade.

All in all, it was more than a day for the record books. It was a day to be cherished in memory for years to come.

Girl Power! Zenyatta Coverage in the Toronto Star

Well, Sunday's the BIG DAY, race fans! Zenyatta will once again prance and power her way into the hearts of her adoring fans at Hollywood Park in the Grade 1 Vanity Handicap. The media is really gearing up, and this blogger was even interviewed for a Zenyatta piece in the Toronto Star, which you can read here.

Hollywood Park will honor the undefeated Zenyatta Sunday with her own Bobblehead giveaway. I'll be in line early for mine... See you there!