Popular champion Zenyatta has been chosen as one of the next recipients of a plaque on Arcadia’s Thoroughbred Racing Walk of Champions in Downtown Arcadia. Zenyatta created one of the most memorable moments in horse race history when she came from behind to win the Breeders’ Cup in 2009. (Zenyatta Breeders’ victory video.) Zenyatta and the others will be feted at “A Salute in Red and Black” gala celebration fundraising dinner from 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. on May 24 on the grounds of the L.A. County Arboretum, 301 N. Baldwin Ave. (Arcadia founder Lucky Baldwin’s race horses wore the colors of red and black.)
The gala produced by the Arcadia Historical Society‘s Thoroughbred Racing Walk of Champions will honor 2015 and 2016 inductees with a preview of bronze plaques for Zenyatta and Lava Man as well as jockey Chris McCarron, trainers Gary Jones, Ron McAnally, Mike Mitchell and Mel Stute, Buddy Johnston’s Old English Rancho thoroughbred farm, and racing filmmaker Joe Burnham.
There will also be special recognition to Triple Crown-winning jockey Victor Espinoza for his achievements in the sport and his community service.
Proceeds from the celebration will fund the placement of engraved informational bronze plaques in the sidewalks of downtown Arcadia.
For tickets to the event, visit arcadiachampions.org
Learn about event sponsorship opportunities.
— By Scott Hettrick (based on flier and web site announcement by AHS and TRWoC)