THE 2010 BREEDERS’ CUP

The 2010 Breeders’ Cup was known as The Quest for Perfection. The undefeated Zenyatta was attempting to close out her brilliant career a perfect 20 for 20 with a second victory in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. This would also be the first Breeders’ Cup to finish under the lights. Breeders’ Cup Friday was jolted by Shared Account, at 46-1, denying Midday a repeat in the Filly and Mare Turf. Trainer Bill Mott won the Ladies’ Classic for the third time as Unrivaled Belle defeated top 3-year-old Blind Luck. On Saturday, Uncle Mo dominated the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile and the 5-year-old mare Goldikova won an unprecedented third consecutive Breeders’ Cup Mile. All the anticipation of the day, though, led to the Classic. This time Zenyatta did not start well, racing last of 12 horses during the first mile. But just like the previous year, she gathered herself under Mike Smith for one final drive to victory, reaching the 4-year-old Blame on even terms as the two horses lunged for the wire. Blame prevailed by a head in one of the most dramatic horse races of all time. While disappointment was felt through much the crowd and by the racing world, Zenyatta‘s gallant effort transcended her defeat, and it still lifted her to the Horse of the Year title of 2010.