Barbaro: One year later
The owners of Barbaro announced today that the ashes of the colt who became a symbol of courage and perseverance for many will be buried at Churchill Downs, the scene of his 2006 Kentucky Derby win.
Most will recall that two weeks after his 6 1/2-length win in the Derby, Barbaro suffered what would prove to be a fatal lower leg injury in the Preakness. It was during his eight-month battle for survival after surgery that his admirers became legion and he came to be "America's horse."
One of the luckiest assignments I've ever had in this business was being told to check in on Barbaro at his Fair Hills training center in northern Maryland immediately after he returned home from the Kentucky Derby. It was the Monday after the Derby, less than 48 hours after Barbaro had flashed across the finish line.
I made a phone call to Fair Hills before leaving The Sun and was told in no uncertain terms that no one would be allowed to see Barbaro and that his trainer, Michael Matz, would not be available for interviews. It was a nice day so I made the drive anyway.
In the end, about three or four other reporters had taken the same chance I did, as well as a Sun photographer, and the handful of us enjoyed what amounted to a private audience with a horse who would, in tragedy, become one of the most famous thoroughbreds of all-time on what appeared to be one of the most satisfying days of his life.
Barbaro was sassy on his way to the paddock that May day, drawing some gentle words of admonishment from Matz. We all watched quietly as Barbaro grazed and a hawk circled overhead. Later, Matz talked about the quiet peace that Fair Hills afforded Barbaro as he prepared for his chase of the Triple Crown.
The next and last time I saw Barbaro, I was near the finish line at noisy Pimlico. Now, I was one of hundreds of thousands whose attention was riveted on the spirited bay. One of a small army of Sun reporters covering the race, I had picked my perch carefully by joining a group of photographers because they always know where to stand to get a good look.
Down the track to my left, I saw Barbaro's false start, as everyone else did, and then moments later, I heard the crowd roar as the gates opened. For a few moments, my line of sight was blocked. Then there was the collective gasp, the field of horses rushed by minus the yellow No. 6 and when Barbaro finally passed in front of me, it was with that gruesomely awkward gait and Edgar Prado was dismounting and trying to calm him.
A day or so later, I was part of the tag-team of reporters at New Bolton Center in Pennsylvania, where Barbaro was treated and I interviewed surgeon Dean Richardson, but I never saw Barbaro again.
Last Jan. 29, after many surgeries and the worsening of a condition known as laminitis, Barbaro was put down.
Since Barbaro's death, other horses have suffered the same fate. A year later on Preakness Day, I witnessed a horse named Mending Fences break down while leading the Dixie Stakes. He was euthanized at Pimlico with far less notice than Barbaro.
Barbaro's death heightened awareness of horse race safety and some believe that synthetic surfaces might prevent similar injuries. But in Southern California at Santa Anita, the synthetic surface has had its problems. Recently, the track hasn't drained properly after heavy rains. Santa Anita has already missed a bunch of race dates and will miss a bunch more as the track is worked on to make it safe for horses and jockeys.
You'd like to be able to say that Barbaro's accident and passing, and all the attention and emotional reaction that followed, has resulted in a major difference for hose racing. And I suppose that medical knowledge was gained by Barbaro's extensive treatment; that money has been raised for research; and there is certainly a heightened awareness of safety issues. But the fact remains that the perfect solution remains elusive and more often than anyone would like, horses and riders still suffer.
Photo credit: George Widman/AP
Comments
Bill,
I share your thoughts about Barbaro. Like you, I was lucky enough to witness some of those breathtaking morning workouts near Elkton, Maryland. And, sadly, I was there at Pimlico when the majestic bay colt broke down. I visited Barbaro at the New Bolton Center a little over a month after the Preakness and was profoundly affected by the colt's bright-eyed personality. I fed him a peppermint and then he pressed his nose forcefully into my chest as if to say "I know you have more of those." I did, and he got them all. I covered the Triple Crown races of Smarty Jones, Afleet Alex, Barbaro and Hard Spun for a Philadelphia TV station. But it was Barbaro whose effortless stride, regal profile and determined personality will stay with me forever. Now, when I'm riding or jumping horses, I often think of how powerful yet fragile these magnificent beasts are.
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George,
Thanks for writing and sharing that moment with Barbaro. You were fortunate to see him in those days. I know any horse that suffers the fate Barabo did derserves our compassion but he sure was special.
-- Bill O.
Posted by: George Mallet | January 29, 2008 3:41 PM
Bill,
Seriously, who cares.? It's a GD Horse. Too much money is wasted on domesticated animals.
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Bobby,
You're entitled to your opinion. A lot of folks obviously feel otherwise and I suppose I'm one of them. Sure, money is wasted on animals that could go to more important things, such as medical research or relieving world hunger but the same could be said of money that is spent for sports tickets or fancy dinners or designer handbags.
-- Bill O.
Posted by: Bobby | January 29, 2008 4:31 PM
I remember as a little girl watching the race for the Triple Crown. I too watched the day of the Kentucky Derby when this magnificent bay won the granddaddy of all races. I immediately starting learning all that I could about him. I also was watching when he was hurt. I too had a bad right leg that I could have lost and so I felt that he and I were tied together. I still feel an emptiness a year later when his fight was over. I miss him so much, he was and is a part of my heart. I am glad that he will have a final resting place, someplace that all of us can remember his greatest race. Run like the wind in the Rainbow Bridge, champion of mine. Someday we will all see you run again.
Posted by: Linda Navarre | January 29, 2008 4:50 PM
Yup, I agree, I probably spend too much on Sports stuff...but Barbaro was around way longer than he should have been.
Posted by: Bobby | January 29, 2008 4:58 PM
Bill,
Very nice article Bill. You certainly capture the spirit of most who believe that we as horsemen, are caretakers for these wonderful creatures, and not just users of the GD animals. With the kind of attitude of your previous emailer, it's no wonder that global warming has been ignored for so long as well.
Many thanx.
Posted by: Tim Ryan | January 29, 2008 5:01 PM
I do.
Posted by: Rickey | January 29, 2008 5:04 PM
I am truly sorry for those who feel that Barbaro was just a horse and animals aren't important . I have taken pet therapy cats to nursing homes and the joy they have brought residents. Animals love us without condition..they don't care if we are young or old . If only mankind was so what a wonderful world it truly would be for all.
Posted by: Candace J Serviss | January 29, 2008 5:10 PM
Horses are beasts of Burden to make mens Lives easier. We used to be so dependent on these GD Horses like you say Bill that if someone stole one they would be hanged.
Like wise when this champion Barbaro has put so much money into this world.
Plus Horses are CuuuTTTeEE.
Peace....Iron Mike
Posted by: Educated Bet | January 29, 2008 5:18 PM
Where would we be without domesticated animals, especially horses? It wasn't too many years ago that they were our primary means of travel and communication, not to mention labor on our farms that provided food and served along with soldiers in battle. Many cultures throught history have held horses in high esteem for what they contribute to our lives and other domesticated animals as well for different reasons among them dogs and cats. Temple cats were indulged, revered, for instance in ancient civilizations who respected and admired them.
Posted by: Fran | January 29, 2008 5:26 PM
In addition to increased awareness of equine medical treatment (and increased donations for medical research) and synthetic tracks, Barbaro's life/death also had a huge influence on something with which he really had no connection: horse slaughter.
For some reason, since Barbaro's death, his legions of fans have taken on a campaign to increase awareness of horse slaughter in this country; they have also raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to save hundreds of "unwanted" horses from being served as dinner in Belgian restaurants. Although Barbaro really had nothing to do with the horse slaughter controversy, it is still remarkable how much of an impact he has made to increase awareness about that horrific (and misconceived) practice. Perhaps we will be able to thank Barbaro indirectly preventing any future Ferdinand horror stories.
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Dabid,
Thanks for the contribution. I was unaware that Barbaro's struggle had an impact on that particular issue.
-- Bill O.
Posted by: David | January 29, 2008 5:31 PM
Bill,
I wish that I would have been lucky enough to have met Barbaro. He was a beautiful, majestic horse! Living outside of Philadelphia, the closest I ever got to Barbaro was meeting one of his consulting veterinarians. They really felt that Barbaro was going to pull through almost to the end. Hopefully, many other horses have survived laminitis because of what was learned from Barbaro.
George Mallet - Please come back to Philadelphia! I miss you on Good Day Philadelphia! Your horse talk really made my day!
Posted by: Lisa | January 29, 2008 6:02 PM
Hi Bill,
Thank you for sharing your memorable experiences of Barbaro on this, the one year anniversary of his passing. He truly was (is) a symbol of courage, and perhaps above all the greatness he possessed as a champion, I may remember him most for the inspirational efforts he displayed both on and off the track....from the highest high, to the lowest low. Personally speaking, I believe that intangible quality he so often displayed is what may resonate the most with me. Regrettably, I hadn't had the chance to have seen him in person, but to just witness his achievements was thrilling enough. In closing, I thought I would share with you a link to an original song that I wrote in honor of Barbaro entitled "Wear Your Crown". It was written/recorded just days after he had passed (this time last year). If you get the chance to give a listen, I'm hopeful you may hear his spirit there within.
http://www.myspace.com/thetellalls
Ken
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Ken,
Thanks for sharing that. Today, I've been posting Super Bowl videos but I hope to post a link to your song soon. You're a talented musician.
-- Bill O.
Posted by: Ken | January 29, 2008 6:30 PM
Barbaro was truly majestic. I watched the Derby and Preakness at home with my family, so, unfortunately, I never saw him for real.
I love him, and if he were a human, he would be my idol, second only to my mother, father, and grandmother. He was so intelligent, beautiful, and graceful. I was sure he would have won the Triple Crown. Personally, I think he was better than Secretariat. There will never be another Barbaro.
Posted by: Jo | January 29, 2008 6:49 PM
Barbaro was one of the finest, most heroic figures of the decade. People that "get it" - the human-animal bond, just get it ... and are the richer for it.
Barbaro was larger than life, say those who met him. How lucky you were, Bill and George, to have done so.
In just one year, Barbaro's legacy includes rescuing almost 2,000 horses from slaughter and hundreds of thousands of dollars raised for good works. www.alexbrownracing.com
As for medical research on animals, we have race horses to thank for medical progress that every day helps millions of humans live more comfortable, active lives: Glucosamine, Adequan and Hyaluronic Acid (non-pharma arthritis treatments) came from equine sports medicine.
Long may your legacy run, Barbaro!
Posted by: Susan | January 29, 2008 8:07 PM
I have only been riding for 3 years. I've always been a huge respect for
those fabulous Thoroughbred racehorses. Due to Barbaro's path
following the Preakness, I became
quite aware that I needed to do something. Since May 2006, my
family has moved to a 18 acre property to devote to ex-racehorses.
I left my 24 year career (great salery) and
so far have 4 young OTTB's. They will be with our family their entire lives. One is being retrained in eventing, one likes trail riding, and one has possibilities in dressage. One is just learning MANNERS! They all have new jobs.
I am
working with the Exceller Fund to
help/foster many more. I know
this never would have happened
if all was not reveiled regarding
slaughter and horses. I thank
Gretchen and Roy Jackson for
sharing all through their personal moments about Barbaro's fight for survival. I know many others have also been affected this way.
Sincerely,
Haley McMahon
Portland, Oregon
Posted by: Haley McMahon | January 29, 2008 8:24 PM
Nice article but why not mention the obvious truth that these incredible creatures are raced at much too young an age. Greed dictates training begin w/ yearlings...it's insane; like forcing toddlers to compete in the Olympics. Why can they not wait to start training when the animal is 3?? Longer careers and lives would probably result.
Posted by: Dianne P. | January 29, 2008 9:15 PM
Of all the animals who have partnered man over thousands of years, we owe the most to the horse: Horse gave man mobility thousands of years before modern transportation. He has plowed our fields, carried our loads, pulled our wagons and carriages, hunted with us, explored the unknown with us, played games with us, and died with us on countless battlefields in untold numbers. He has been a source of food, power, conquest, speed, entertainment, beauty, money, rehabilitation, wonder, awe, love, and heartbreak since our partnership began.
I will visit Bararo's statue at Chrchill Downs as often as I can, and I will always leave a red rose, not just for Barbaro, and not just for every horse I have known and loved, but for every horse who has lived and died in the service of man. We owe them that remembrance, and so much more.
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Pamela,
You do not overstate it. As you put it, the patnership beween mankind and horses is absolutely epic in its sweep.
-- Bill O.
Posted by: Pamela G | January 30, 2008 12:05 AM
Hello Bill,
You ask, is there an answer to avoid leg injuries, and the answer is yes, definitely. It requires that colts and fillies not start any heavy training before the age of 3, when their bones can take the punishment. Starting these youngsters out as yearlings and 2-year-olds is an accident waiting to happen, as we have all seen all too often. Until veterinarians and trainers back off on this way-too-early training abuse, these injuries will continue to occur--all for the almighty buck in someone's pocket....
Posted by: Laurie Loveman | January 30, 2008 9:17 AM
I am one of the many fans who will never get to a race track in my life, but if Barbaro's remains are somehow outside of the track, many people who can't afford to actually go inside the area would be able to pay our respects. It has taken me a long time to get over our loss, but I now choose to remember him as the regal, stately, talented, intelectual great animal he was. My computer is loaded with articles from anyone who ever wrote or video taped him. I guess it's great that we are entitled to our opinions, but negative opinions are not worth the time and who honestly wants to live with negatism.
Thanks
Posted by: Ronnie Rote | February 21, 2008 3:21 PM