Zenyatta, 2010’s Horse of the Year, became the first horse to win the William H. May award when she was honored with the 2011 title by the Association of Racing Commissioners International (RCI). She was recognized by 2010-2011 RCI chairman Dan Hartman of the Colorado Racing Commission during a ceremony at the 77^th Annual Conference on Racing and Wagering Security at Le Pavillon Hotel in New Orleans, March 23-26.

The award honors an individual or group that has provided "meritorious service" to the industry. Past recipients include racing industry greats such as Bob and Beverly Lewis, Stanley Bergstein, John Gaines, Joe Hirsch, and Richard Duchossois.

"Although no horse has ever received the May Award, the RCI Executive Committee felt that Zenyatta’s contributions to the sport were worthy of this award," said RCI president Ed Martin. "From her multiple grade I victories to dancing her way to the paddock for the Breeders’ Cup Classic, Zenyatta was able to capture the hearts and spirits of racing fans around the world."

Accepting the award was Kirk Breed, executive director of the California Horse Racing Board