Zippy Chippy without his fly mask/Photo by Rhonda Lane
My mini camcorder and I stumbled upon a fun side story at the Grand Opening at Old Friends at Cabin Creek.
Resident retiree Zippy Chippy is famous for his record of 0-100. During his racing career, he gathered many fans across the northeast.
When CBS Sunday Morning visited Zippy and his owner-trainer Felix Monserrate and put them on national TV, Zippy’s fame and fan tally bloomed across the US.
Felix’s love for Zip, despite his record, and his continued effort to look out for the horse charmed horse-lovers, too.
On opening day at Old Friends, I was roaming the grounds and recognized Felix approaching the gate to Zippy’s turnout.
My heart raced in a fangirl moment, then I spotted the plastic bag of feed he carried. That’s when my heart said, “Zippy will be right here soon,” and my newspaper-trained mind screamed, “Photo op!”
I whipped out my camera in hopes of a charming reunion. What I got was more fun. Enjoy!
And thank you, Felix, for being such a good friend to Zippy, no matter what.
Video of two old friends – Zippy Chippy and former trainer Felix Monserrate – meeting for dinner. Maybe.
Don’t they remind you of two independent, strong-minded people who’ve been friends for ages?
If you can’t get enough of Zippy Chippy:
- More about Zippy Chippy a Northampton, MA, favorite
- When Zippy made 0-87, still in the money. (Ha! And everyone thinks he always came in last.)
- Negotiations with Old Friends to take care of Zippy, as Felix worked to ensure his friend’s future.
Zippy and his other equine retiree friends live at Old Friends Cabin Creek, Bobby Frankel division, in Greenfield Center, NY. (Click link for info about how to visit.)
To see more video and read more about Old Friends Cabin Creek, see my post about the grand opening in July 2010.
Tags: Felix Monserrate, Old Friends, Old Friends Cabin Creek, Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Center, retired race horses, Saratoga Springs, Zippy Chippy
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