John Shirreffs & Zenyatta | 60 Minutes Archive: A Journey Through Racing Excellence
In this captivating segment from 2010, “60 Minutes” takes us behind the scenes of the horse racing world, spotlighting one of its greatest stars, Zenyatta. At six years old, Zenyatta was gearing up for her final race, and Bob Simon had the rare opportunity to speak with her dedicated team, including owners Ann and Jerry Moss and legendary jockey Mike Smith.
The profile also features insights from her trainer, John Shirreffs, who recently passed away at 80. Shirreffs played a crucial role in Zenyatta’s storied career, guiding her through a series of impressive victories, including her stunning races against formidable contenders. His deep commitment to the horse and the sport made him a beloved figure in the racing community.
“60 Minutes,” a staple in television journalism since its debut in 1968, effortlessly blends hard-hitting reports with poignant human stories. This archive highlights not just Zenyatta’s exceptional talent but also the enduring bond between a horse and those who nurture her, showcasing the dedication behind equine excellence.
Join us in celebrating the legacy of John Shirreffs and the remarkable Zenyatta by watching this insightful profile from the “60 Minutes” archive. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more compelling stories and captivating interviews from the world of sports and beyond.
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Video “John Shirreffs & Zenyatta | 60 Minutes Archive” was uploaded on 02/18/2026 to Youtube Channel 60 Minutes

































So fortunate to be able to see her win at Oaklawn Park in person. Great, great mare.
What a lovely girl
Please retirer her🎉. Don't run her down like Ruffian who had to be destroyed on the track
Re the question back then if she would, in retirement, think back on her racing days?? Z is now retired from broodmare duty, and turned out with other retired race mares. Once in a while they all set off running, and Z just SMOKES 'em…❤
😰I sure hope she doesn't break a leg! If I owned her, no one could convince me to run her at 6 (years old). Zenytta is much too valuable and rare! What a crazy thing to do.😳
Bad producer
IMO the greatest filly/mare to ever race!
Nothing close to this girl !
I am so heartbroken to hear that John Sheriffs died.I thought he was absolutely the best, most compassionate trainer in the biz. We certainly need more like him. R.I.P Mr Sherreffs. You will be dearly missed.
Weiiiii
JS, a job well done while here on earth. If you're playing this weekend, check out our picks at Fast Horses Today
She was special watched her live at Oaklawn.
Most horses aren't ready to race at two coming three. They're not ready to be ridden, period.
Nothing like a great mare❤
She runs just like Secretariat did, from the back just to let them all
know whose boss.
Thanks for the memories.
This reporter can talk
Wow❣️Love going back in time with her❣️Time has a way of bringing back moments that showed us just how special she is.
Rip John
She's absolutely stunning and magnificent ❤❤❤
One horse can change your life,how wonderful
What a wonderful mare. In the southern hemisphere in more recent times there have been several dominant mares who have rarely been beaten and one called Winx who was trained in Sydney by New Zealander Chris Waller who was unbeaten in I think 17 starts. Black Caviar was also dominant in Australia and successful at Royal Ascot. Sunline won three Cox Plates and Recently deceased Makybe Diva won three Melbourne Cups, the bigest two mile race in the southern hemisphere. Mares are incredible beings and it's touching to see real horse lovers worship them.
Not greater than Secretariat, the clock doesn't lie.
So gentle? Yet needs a stud chain?
Tremendous interview.