Introducing an exciting development in the world of horse breeding: Zozos, a highly regarded grade 1-placed and grade 3-winning stallion, has welcomed his very first foal! This remarkable event took place on February 6 at Equistar Training and Breeding in Pennsylvania, the very location where Zozos stands.
The proud breeders of this bay filly are Barry and Joni Butzow, who previously campaigned Zozos alongside trainer Brad Cox. The filly is out of the stakes-placed mare Isthatyourharley, who hails from the lineage of Tapiture. Notably, Rodney Eckenrode, the owner of Equistar, played a pivotal role in facilitating the acquisition of Isthatyourharley for the Butzows.
Eckenrode expressed his enthusiasm regarding the new arrival, stating, "She is a really nice mare whose own dam is a great producer with multiple stakes horses." To add to her impressive pedigree, Isthatyourharley is a half-sister to the stakes winner Chilly in Charge, as well as to stakes-placed winners Chilly Start and Chilly Sky. Each of these relatives showcases the strong genetic potential present within this family.
Reflecting on the filly’s early life, Eckenrode couldn't hide his excitement. "She is a very nice filly and very busy," he remarked. "She was on her feet quickly, nursed, and is always on the go. She displays a nice shoulder, a short back, and has long legs reminiscent of her sire." These physical traits suggest she may have a promising future ahead in the racing world.
Zozos, now 7 years old, is a son of Munnings and had a successful racing career, achieving victories and high placements in three graded stakes events between the ages of 3 and 5. One of his standout performances came when he finished second to Epicenter in the 2022 Louisiana Derby (G2). Zozos excelled particularly as a sprinter and miler, culminating in a victory at the 2023 Ack Ack Stakes (G3) over a mile distance, and a commendable third-place finish in the esteemed 2024 Churchill Downs Stakes (G1) over 7 furlongs. Over the course of 15 starts, he retired with a record of 7 wins and 1 second place, amassing earnings of $1,011,463.
For those interested in breeding, Zozos stands at a stud fee of $2,500, making him an appealing choice for breeders looking to invest in promising bloodlines.
