Zenyatta now 16-0, wins Apple Blossom

Associated Press

HOT SPRINGS, Ark.

Zenyatta came to Oaklawn Park as visiting royalty. After romping to her 16th consecutive victory in the Apple Blossom Invitational, racing’s queen stood before her adoring public and bowed her head twice.

At times more human than horse, Zenyatta high-stepped her way to the starting gate Friday in her distinctive Radio City Rockette style. She lagged behind early as usual before making a sweeping move through the stretch turn on her way to a 41‚Ñ4-length victory.

“It’s kind of hard to say if she’s getting better and better because she’s so good,” said Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith, who never had to use his whip. “I was looking at the big screen in the stretch, to be honest, because at that point we’d already hit the front really easy.”

The 6-year-old mare tied the modern mark shared by 1948 Triple Crown winner Citation and 1995-96 Horse of the Year Cigar in unrestricted races. Peppers Pride, who retired last year with a 19-for-19 record, and Hallowed Dreams, who won 16 straight, achieved some of their success in statebred stakes.

“We’re just thrilled and delighted that she’s won 16 in a row,” said Jerry Moss, who owns Zenyatta with wife Ann. “So many people have thanked us personally for bringing the horse here. I think wherever we go, people will be happy to see Zenyatta.”

She beat four horses in the 11‚Ñ8-mile race that didn’t include racing’s other female superstar, Rachel Alexandra. Her owner passed on a chance to participate in what would have been a dream matchup worth $5 million if both horses had shown up.

Without Rachel Alexandra, the Apple Blossom purse reverted to $500,000, with Zenyatta earning $300,000.

Still, track president Charles Cella came out ahead.