Original Zenyatta Training Shoe

This aluminum racing plate was worn by Zenyatta following her historic victory in the 2009 Breeders' Cup Classic. The shoe originates from the collection of Zenyatta’s late Hall of Fame trainer John Shirreffs, who saved it as historical testament to Zenyatta’s strength, durability and racing excellence, qualities she continued to embody as a 6-year-old entering her 2010 Horse of the Year season.

After winning the November 7, 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Santa Anita Park, Zenyatta remained in light training pending the decision to race or retire her for the 2010 racing season. During this time she wore the featured training shoe for several weeks. As an immensely talented and extraordinarily large horse, Zenyatta's feet were the focus of impact and absorbed energy generated from her massive frame. Even during the course of her training downtime that winter, Shirreffs found it fascinating to see that power manifested in the featured shoe’s unusual wear pattern and for this reason he saved it in admiration.