Zenyatta tested first-up at Churchill Downs

Champion mare Zenyatta will put her undefeated record on the line in the G2 Louisville Distaff at Churchill Downs on Friday.

The Street Cry mare will carry 56.5kg in one of several features on the Kentucky Oaks undercard.  She will be racing first-up since October when a G1 winner of the G1 Breeders’ Cup Ladies’ Classic.

Zenyatta was edged out by Curlin for USA Horse of the Year honours last year after winning seven stakes races.

Despite running predominantly on synthetic surfaces in California, Zenyatta did make a trek to Oaklawn last April and put away champion Ginger Punch with ease in the Apple Blossom Hcp (G1) in her only attempt on dirt.

Zenyatta’s main competition is likely to come from G2 Rampart Hcp winner One Caroline (Unbridled’s Song) and G3 Sixty Sails Hcp winner SWIFT TEMPER (Giant’s Causeway).