Apologize for the nasty subject of this thread, but boy is it disappointing to read about what John Shirreffs has planned for Zenyatta this year. She won't leave California, won't race on anything but carpet and won't face males. He is quoted as saying "Saratoga is a long way away". If this isn't part of what is wrong with racing, I don't know what it is. Compare this awful sportsmanship with what the connections of Rachel have done. In Zenyatta's next start they say "there may be a rematch with Life is Sweet". That is like advertising for the Globetrotters that they may have a rematch with the Washington Generals. Who cares.

Zenyatta is the best "carpet champ" of our error, but that is it. One dirt race, one race outside California doesn't get it done. Even when she retires 14 for 14, it will not be comparable to Personal Ensign's record or other great mares who travelled and took on all comers.

Terrible terrible job by John Shirreffs and the connections.