Rachel Alexandra, Zenyatta battle proposed

SANTA ROSA, Calif., Feb. 11 (UPI) -- Jess Jackson, co-owner of 2009 Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra, has proposed a three-race battle with champion mare Zenyatta.

Jackson proposed the series Thursday, a day after a planned $5 million purse for the Apple Blossom race April 9 at Hot Springs, Ark., was put on hold because Jackson said Rachel Alexandra will not be ready.

The 4-year-old Rachel Alexandra, who Jackson co-owns with Hal McCormick, last November became the first filly ever to win the Breeders' Cup Classic at Santa Anita Park. The 6-year-old Zenyatta is 14-0 with career earnings of more than $5.4 million.

"The fans have spoken, the media has spoken, everyone wants to see Rachel race against Zenyatta -- including me," Jackson said.

"The NTRA (National Thoroughbred Racing Association) will continue to do everything possible to facilitate a meeting or series of races between Champions Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta," said Alex Waldrop, the association president and chief executive officer.