On June 13, Zenyatta went after her 17th consecutive victory, which would push her past Cigar and Citation to stand alone with the longest win streak against top-level thoroughbred competition. Facing her that day was St Trinians, a British-bred spitfire who earlier that year had knocked off Breeders' Cup Ladies Classic winner Life Is Sweet before turning in a credible effort against males in the Santa Anita Handicap. The field also included Zardana, who earlier that year had defeated Rachel Alexandra in the New Orleans Ladies. Turning for home, Zenyatta found herself in third, still better than two lengths behind St Trinians and Zardana. The big mare furiously rallied to catch a game St Trinians by a neck at the wire, prompting a frenzied exclamation from caller Vic Stauffer and a rousing reception from the fans.

Each day for the rest of 2010, Nicole Russo is counting down her top 10 most memorable races of 2010. What are yours? E-mail sports@saratogian.com or leave a comment below!