Because of my age, (the mid 80's is my furthest recollection of thoroughbred racing on a national stage), I will reference the "great" horses of that era (imo) to draw comparisons. Who was greater? Sunday Silence or Easy Goer? Based on head to head competition it was Sunday Silence. Both had earnings of about $5M and won at the same percentage. Or was Alysheba greater? He earned more $ ($6M) but won at "only" a 50% clip. Initially for me, it was Alysheba b/c of his trip crown bid and his thrilling defeat and win in the classic. Then for the next few years Sunday Silence and Easy Goer hooked up and had me believing they were the "greatest" I saw. NO ONE besides people who are really in the game even remember these horses, and they are widely considered the best of the past 30 years. Certainly, Personal Ensign on 3 legs was a "great" filly winning 13 of 13, but NO ONE remembers her either unless you follow the game. No one remembers Curlin or Ghostzapper (highest Beyer's ever), but they do remember Mine that Bird b/c the avg public doesn't really care about the history of the game...and that's ok b/c those are the same people who think the kentucky derby is the end all be all. Ignorant media perpetuate these misconceptions and are, rightly so, worried more about ratings than substance.
I respect everyone's opinion and right to express it, but I think these hypothetical debates provide no resolution to these issues which really have no right or wrong conclusions.
What is "Greatest" of All Time really mean? For some, it's strictly a numbers game (wins, earnings, awards, etc.) like Stray-Rod. For others, it's a combination of performance, numbers, and the ability to bring others (teammates, the game, etc.) to higher levels (ie...Derek Jeter).
Unfortunately, the games survival depends on the handle and does not discriminate on who it gets the betting dollars from. I saw preps, sluts, hoes, cowboys, lesbians, gays, blacks, whites, asians and hispanics at the windows all day. I was there for both days at CD, and I can honestly say the big mare transcends the sport. CD was electric and the roar of the crowd when he presented her at the 1/8 pole was unlike anything I have ever heard or felt.
For reasons mentioned by Mr. Simon, Z's status as an all time "great" is debatable, but can not be discounted; however, her impact and legacy as a figure transcendent of Sport is unquestionable as I firmly believe those who watched/experienced her will never forget it.
ESPN is like a tabloid magazine show. Another BC Marathon midget fighting reference.
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