Barbaro ~ America's Horse

[MIdeafhorserider]

I was thinking about bracelet, what colors, for Barbaro. Three or four colors, blue, white and green, each color of bracelet and another one blue/white/green strips in one color of bracelet. I tried for this :yes:

Hope company offer if yes, accept colors in one bracelet

[Laurel&HollyFarm]

First of all thanks VB for the qualification on the merchandise. I had read somewhere that the Jacksons had made someone at Cafe Express stop selling Barbaro merchandise and just didn't want to cause them any more grief. As we know everyone pays attention to this thread :D.

Second, I could have possibly started that rumor about 3 Chimneys from wishful thinking. AnnikaK wrote in early on this thread that she would like to meet Barbaro and I replied that perhaps he would stand at 3 Chimneys and we could go together to see him when we were both at Rolex :yes: (she is responsible for my having my wonderful ottb Bob). Since I already have reservations to visit Smarty and Dynaformer next year it was purely wishful thinking :winkgrin:.

And third, Go Bobby!!! No INFECTION!!! From someone that has battled infection from a cat bite since early April the no infection just made my day :D.

I will go light another candle.

[msj]

VB, many thanks again for the great updates. I'm also thankful to COTH for numbering each post so I can easily track where I left off reading. This should be post # 1504. :) :)

Off to light a couple of candles for Bobby. Every time I come to check this thread (abut 4-8 times/day), I go and light a couple of candles for him.

[adamsmom]

Second, I could have possibly started that rumor about 3 Chimneys from wishful thinking. AnnikaK wrote in early on this thread that she would like to meet Barbaro and I replied that perhaps he would stand at 3 Chimneys and we could go together to see him when we were both at Rolex :yes: (she is responsible for my having my wonderful ottb Bob). Since I already have reservations to visit Smarty and Dynaformer next year it was purely wishful thinking :winkgrin:.

And third, Go Bobby!!! No INFECTION!!! From someone that has battled infection from a cat bite since early April the no infection just made my day :D.

I will go light another candle.

Well, while I love the folks at Three Chimneys, I personally would rather see Bobby at another lovely Central Kentucky farm that's close to my heart. But I'll leave those wishes for when it's determined he will be able to stand stud! :yes:

And yes, go Bobby! Keep it up, big guy. :D

[cvl]

There is something to be said about batting a thousand.

We have slightly over 1,000 candles lit for Barbaro.
He is batting a thousand, and doing a damn fine job of it!

We need to keep those candles blazing for Barbaro!

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/...l=eng&gi=barba (http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=barba)

Now batting 1111 - let's keep 'em going!!

[eks]

What wonderful news to see that all of our praying and good wishes for Barbaro are getting answered.

VB, how can we thank you for your tireless work keeping everyone up to date with the latest and including all of the links to help us know all those in the Barbaro family? I come here several times a day with my fingers crossed hoping for a good update. What an amazing horse that has touched the lives of so many.

GO BARBARO!!!!!

[VirginiaBred]

To my Barbaro Team members:

While each of you all make me cry all by yourselves, I love this horse, his determination and his spirit.
He makes so many things seem small in his huge fight to live and to beat the odds.
How can you NOT be his cheerleader???????

I consider it an honor to be able to be a part of his life every day, and to will him to heal.

WE BELIEVE!!!!!!!!!!
WE BELIEVE!!!!!!!!!!!!
WE BELIEVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Susan P]

And I would rather see Bobby where I could see Bobby. :yes: If they take him to KY I never will. :( Oh well, as long as he's happy and livin' large.



Well, while I love the folks at Three Chimneys, I personally would rather see Bobby at another lovely Central Kentucky farm that's close to my heart. But I'll leave those wishes for when it's determined he will be able to stand stud! :yes:

And yes, go Bobby! Keep it up, big guy. :D

[Linny]

Just in from Alex/Tim~

Update 320: I am expanding the 'contact us (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/06/contact_us.php)' page to include any organization important to Barbaro's recovery. If you would like contact information added, please include it in the comments and I will make the appropriate additions.
Racing tomorrow (saturday) looks exciting. Red Aspen is in at Philadelphia Park (3:50 pm) (http://drf.com/news/article/76871.html), Sweet Talker (Graham Motion) is racing in the Diana (http://drf.com/news/article/76906.html) and the three year olds continue in the Jim Dandy (http://drf.com/news/article/76907.html). The latter two races are from Saratoga and will be televised on ESPN. If anyone is at the races, feel free to provide a report in the comments so we can all enjoy!

I'll be there and will post when I get home. I have a friend on the ESPN crew so I may get some info there too.
I posted some observations from today at Saratoga on Glimmerglass' "Saratoga" thread, but failed to mention seeing Funny Cide gallop on the pony track this am.

VB, thank you for your continued Barbaro updates.

[Flameborne]

God Bless Barbaro. It certainly warms my heart to know he's coming along. It also makes my own experience with losing a special friend feel like it was well worth the effort. It is extremely refreshing to realize that through struggles success can be found and I am so thankful that the Jacksons have been blessed with such a suvivor!

Keep on healing, bones!

[gubbyz]

Well I went ahead and ordered my own bracelets. They are like the Livestrong ones, only baby blue and say BELIEVE IN BARBARO. I am going to give them to my friends to wear, I have no intentions of making money off them. They should arrive on Aug. 5th. I can't wait!!! Hope that was ok to do.

[Susan P]

A couple reasons that Barbaro is so special in my opinion is because in the beginning he was the hope for victory and even though it seemed all hope was lost, as it was apparent that he could no longer be the triple crown winner, he would still beat the odds and bring us hope for a greater victory yet, his survival. So we can still chant...Go Barbaro, GO! :winkgrin:

[Sannois]

Kennett Florist's Update:

Update 321: Our friends from Kennett Florist visited New Bolton Center again today, they had this to report:

Well, NBC is on a high today... Good news about Bobby and the sugar high we supplied today. For Breakfast, the staff was treated to gooey cinnamon buns and all different kinds of muffins, juice and coffee. The cinnamon buns were gone in minutes! They were still raving about those when we went back in the afternoon. Thanks to Jack and Andrea and everyone at the Barocho Cattle Company, in FL -- as always breakfast was a huge hit!
This afternoon, thanks to Christine in NY and Karen in TN, we brought up all of the makings for a fabulous sundae bar. They devoured gallons of ice cream, hot fudge, carmel, whipped cream, and all sorts of toppings... we even brought root beer for floats. It was gone so fast, the ice cream didn't have time to melt! The staff are so very thankful to all of you and want us to extend their thanks to you all. Of course, we may have to have Lean Cuise Day next week! :)
We are going to start sending some of the baskets next week, on days that Bobby and the staff don't have anything going, from the donations that have been coming in the mail. Thank you again to all of you for letting us be a part of this wonderful family.
the staff is getting they are all going to need bigger girths!! :D
Someone will have to buy them all Jenny Craig memberships! or at lleast a Gym membership:D :lol:

[Spoilsport]

the staff is getting they are all going to need bigger girths!! :D Someone will have to buy them all Jenny Craig memberships! or at lleast a Gym membership:D :lol:

Or they could start sending all the goodies to me :yes: :yes: !

I'm going sailing this weekend and will miss this thread :( . The updates are going to be late this morning, darn it, so I'll just be jingling like mad from the ocean.

HAPPY BOINGING, BOBBY!!!

(Thanks for Alex, VB, and everyone here!)

[Fred]

I don't know about you, but I cried reading the update.

WE BELIEVE!!!!!!
WE BELIEVE!!!!!
WE BELIEVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

oh yes, tears here too.
Thank you, as always, VB for the updates.
Going to light some candles for Bobby, and send a small donation in his honour to CANTER and the EXCELLER Fund.
Vineyridge thank you for that quote.
My favourite is from Shakespeare, it is on my webpage:
'He trots the air/ the earth sings when he touches it'

[Susan P]

OK Spoiledsport, don't expect any sympathy from us. :lol: Have fun sailing the ocean blue. :cool:



Or they could start sending all the goodies to me :yes: :yes: !

I'm going sailing this weekend and will miss this thread :( . The updates are going to be late this morning, darn it, so I'll just be jingling like mad from the ocean.

HAPPY BOINGING, BOBBY!!!

(Thanks for Alex, VB, and everyone here!)

[VirginiaBred]

Per Alex:

Update 333: No update yet this morning. I was just talking to Peter Brette, who has not yet heard from Michael (who is in Saratoga). As soon as I do hear, I will post. Peter also may visit today, so hopefully we will hear from his visit later. More later.
updated 10:47 am saturday.

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Tim/Alex~

Update 334: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (friday night). Just got a voice mail from Peter Brette. Sorry for the late update.
updated saturday, july 29, 1:04 pm

[VirginiaBred]

Update 335: A nice article from the Washington Post : Barbaro a 'Happy Horse' As He Adapts to His Situation (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/28/AR2006072801510.html?nav=rss_sports) rehashes generally what we know. I do like the closing:

The outpouring of support from the public, Sweeney said, has shown no signs of slowing.
"People see traits in him they wish they had, a warrior's spirit," Sweeney said. "He's a hero and he has no agenda. People can make him what they need in their life."

I just received an e-mail from a friend of mine at Delaware Park noting the raffle drawing for the Mike Rea Relief Fund is to be monday, I may try to get down for that (I owe for a few tickets!):

On Monday the Mustang for Mike Rea will be drawn here at Delaware Park. The fourth race is to be named after Mike Rea and the drawing is expected to take place about that time to. The car is on display in the grove and the drawing will be in the winners circle. I think there are still some tickets in the horsemens office for purchase.

The latest report about Mike seems a little more upbeat (http://mikerea.blogspot.com/2006/07/what-difference-few-weeks-make.html).

[VirginiaBred]

Here is that Washington Post article:
www.washingtonpost.com (http://www.washingtonpost.com)

Horse Racing

Barbaro a 'Happy Horse' As He Adapts to His Situation

Saturday, July 29, 2006

Sixteen days ago, Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro's prospects for survival were not good. Dean Richardson, the chief of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa., announced the horse had laminitis in his left rear leg so severe, he had been forced to cut away 80 percent of the hoof. This happened while Richardson was treating the right rear leg Barbaro shattered May 20 in the Preakness Stakes. He later developed an infection.
"His prognosis for long-term life and comfort has been significantly diminished," Richardson said.

But Barbaro did not wither and die.
On Wednesday, Richardson changed the cast on the colt's right rear leg and saw no new problems. Recent blood tests showed no signs of the infection in the surgically repaired right rear pastern joint that had slowed the healing process, said Corrine Sweeney , the hospital's executive director.

While the laminitis in the left leg continues to threaten Barbaro's life, the colt has adapted to spending much of the day elevated in a sling and he continues to eat and sleep well.
"He's a happy horse, he really is," Sweeney said. The grim report when Barbaro developed laminitis "wasn't overstated. I know Dean personally and professionally. When he says this is grave, it's grave. When he says it's serious, it's serious. It's not optimism or pessimism. It's realism."

Barbaro remains in the intensive care unit and continues to receive nearly daily visits from owners Gretchen and Roy Jackson and trainer Michael Matz . The outpouring of support from the public, Sweeney said, has shown no signs of slowing.
"People see traits in him they wish they had, a warrior's spirit," Sweeney said. "He's a hero and he has no agenda. People can make him what they need in their life."

-- John Scheinman

[Tackpud]

My horses all just went and lit candles and we're over 1100 again. Our prayers are with you Bobby!

[VirginiaBred]

Update 336: Redaspen was sixth in the stake today at Philadelphia. Perhaps she got a little tired in her first start back. Tim said Victor Molina gave her a great ride and gave her every opportunity. After a nine month layoff it was great to see her return to the races. Lets hope she can move forward from this start.
Yahoo! News has the following article today: Barbaro's trainer not getting hopes up (http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060729/ap_on_sp_ot/rac_saratoga_matz_1) which includes the following excerpt:

The medical updates on Barbaro seem encouraging, yet the trainer of the ailing Kentucky Derby winner isn't allowing himself to become too optimistic.
"I'm not getting my hopes up," Michael Matz said Saturday. "I'm just taking it one day at a time -- but he's trying."

I had asked Michael during the week whether he was getting a little more optimistic (as we were getting all the positive news) and his answer to me was similar to the above.

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Alex~

Update 338: Bernadini was super impressive in the Jim Dandy. I am not entirely sure what he beat, but nevertheless he did not get out of third gear. Congratulations!
Update 337: Melissa sent me this poem, which included the following in her e-mail:

I've been working on this poem for some weeks but couldn't finish it after the horrible news two weeks ago. Now, after yesterday's good news, I was able to finish it. Feel free to share it with anyone including Peter, Michael, the Jacksons, Edgar Prado and all who are close to Bobby.

poem:

"Barbaro"
by
Melissa Harden
Who wouldn't be charmed?
By the most precious sight
Of a foal being born
After a long restless night
Eyes anxiously watch
As he climbs to his feet
Nuzzling so close
To his mother's heartbeat
We think of his dam
We think of his sire
Will he have her quiet calm?
While retaining his fire?
Those answers are known
Only to God it is said
So we leave it to Him
As we go to our beds.
We watch foals play games
While amidst their peers
Whether they'll race
Is best left to seers.
Then the time comes
That all mother's hate
He must leave her side
To be schooled at the gate
What's with this saddle?
Who's this on my back?
You mean I must run
Out here on this track.
He continues to strengthen
His endurance increases
Through most careful workouts
And frustrating breezes
He could be the one
If our watches don't lie
Shall we aim for the Derby?
And give it a try
He wins all his races
He fills us with pride
This is a great horse
With luck on his side
He then wins the Derby
They are calling him great
He goes to the Preakness
And meets a cruel fate?
In the midst of adversity
He touches our hearts
We see his ability
To be patient and smart
We admire his quiet courage
As he endeavors to heal
Each day we're encouraged
By his very strong will
There was no Triple Crown
No jubilant mood
But his name will resound
When we think fortitude
For no claim of greatness
Ever had such a measure
As his grace under stress
More precious than treasure
And his name, Barbaro
For all those who know him
Will always mean hero
His fame never to dim.

Sweet Talker ran a great race to just get headed in the Diana. I asked Graham about her chances on thursday. He was a little concerned with her travel schedule, but she certainly showed up today, just losing on the wire! Also, nice win for Master of Disaster at Delaware for Steve Klesaris.

[VirginiaBred]

Wow, what a marvelous poem by Melissa!

[CrzyCorgi]

That is a beautiful poem....
:cry:

~Darci~

[RunForIt]

:) Thank you so much, Melissa, where ever you are. I teach children to read and be moved by poetry and then to write poetry out of their feelings about something that matters very much to them. This is going to be one of my "mentor texts" this year. Barbaro is going to the classroom in many, many ways...:yes: :cool:

[ivy62]

Melissa this is a wonderful tribute to such a champion...
GO BARBARO!!!!

[Susan P]

Cautious optimism. :yes:

[Lori T]

I don't have time to always post, but I ALWAYS read the Barbaro updates at least twice a day.
Thank you so much for keeping us informed. I pass the information on to our pony clubbers and many of my friends, horsey or not!
Sending more jingles and more good thoughts for Barbaro!!!

[msj]

Powerful and touching poem!:eek: Thanks to Melissa for composing it and VB for posting it. Course I'm sitting here with tears running down my cheeks from reading it.

Time to go turn the horses out and clean stalls since it rained last night and my wimps spent a good bit of time in them. Sometimes 24/7 turnout still means they stay in their stalls anyway. My ottb was still sleeping this morning when I put his feed tub in. Had to give him a a couple of slaps on his big butt to get him to get up. Lazy boy!

Well, off to light a couple more candles for Barbaro first!

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Alex/Tim:

Update 339: Barbaro had another comfortable day (saturday). Had dinner with Peter and Kim. Other interesting factoids:

Messenger was a racehorse, I think trained by Michael, but not very fast. I think he may have had a stakes winning sibling.

Bobby, Barbaro's nickname, is such because Nicholas, Peter and Kim's son, could not say "Barbaro" ... he is quite young.

I also wanted to note that a couple of people have noted sons and daughters of Dynamformer as half bothers / sisters to Bobby. We do not actually consider a thoroughbred a sibling (or half sibling) unless they are out of the same dam. Thus Bobby's siblings are Holy Ground (four year old half brother) Man of Havana (two year old half brother), and his weanling full brother, yet unnamed.

[VirginiaBred]

Sunday Morning~

Update 340: No update yet for sunday, but I will likely know something by mid morning. In the meantime here are a couple of articles, one old and one new. The new one, from the Daily Racing Form, is essentially an interview with Michael Matz from yesterday in Saratoga: Matz keeping an eye on Barbaro (http://www.drf.com/news/article/76966.html). Michael relayed how the last few weeks have been:

"At one point I thought I was going to win the Triple Crown with this horse, next time I was sort of resigned to the fact maybe it wasn't supposed to be and he's going to come through this and be a great stallion," Matz said. "Then, when this other thing happened, I sort of resigned myself that they were going to put him down. Next morning I go and look, there he is bright-eyed. Every time I had myself resigned to something that was going to happen it never did. I don't think physically I was getting tired, emotionally I never knew what to expect."

He was also asked about Bernadini yesterday:

"I'm anxious to see the race," Matz said. "Bernardini's a real nice horse. It sure would have been nice to see them run against each other; that's never going to happen."
Matz was asked if part of him was rooting for Bernardini to lose so that his chances of unseating Barbaro as 3-year-old champion would diminish.
"Right now, I'm more worried about saving his life instead of whether he's 3-year-old champion," he said.

The second article, which I don't think I had seen, is about Peter Brette, some of his background etc: Exercise rider Brette on journey of a lifetime with Barbaro (http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=16636469&BRD=1671&PAG=461&dept_id=81422&rfi=6). Obviously this is an old article, and the journey has taken major turns since the article was written. The final piece of the article is poignant:

At mid-afternoon on Derby Day, a good friend of Brette's from Ireland strolled up to the barn to greet the horse and rider.
"She gazed into his eyes for a while," Brette said. "Then she turned to me and said: 'He's an old soul. He's been here before.'"

[Adamantane]

We do not actually consider a thoroughbred a sibling (or half sibling) unless they are out of the same dam. Thus Bobby's siblings are Holy Ground (four year old half brother) Man of Havana (two year old half brother), and his weanling full brother, yet unnamed.

I have no wish to divert the thread, but this is confusing to me, not being versed in TB breeding. Is there a link to another thread or a good web resource to clarify why this is so? I would think that for horses and all other sexually-produced beings, since half-siblings share half their genetic material (mitochondrial DNA which is conserved on the mother's side apart), they would be seen as such, whichever parent they share in common.

[Oakstable]

My guess is that a stallion can sire hundreds and hundreds of offspring, particularly now with AI and frozen. The mare can only produce just so many foals, even with ET.

The foal gets more from the dam so ... that's my best hunch, and I don't know if this is true across all breeds of horses.

[VirginiaBred]

Oakstable is correct.
It's always been that the relationship side of equine breeding comes from the link to the mare.
So, you have either full siblings (same mare, same stallion) or half siblings (same mare).

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Tim/Alex:

Update 341: Its great Michael is spending a couple of days at Saratoga (I think he is returning monday) as he has enabled more media coverage for Bobby. This Times Union article: Barbaro touches a heart (http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=503991&category=SPORTS&newsdate=7/30/2006) includes some of the same interview covered by the Racing Form article in update 340. Here are a couple of excerpts that are new:

"I have just never been around a horse that has been so popular," Matz said. "Even outside of the racing community ... I took the kids to a Phillies game a while back and we were just sitting in the stands watching a ballgame on a Saturday afternoon. Three people I didn't know just came up and asked how the horse was doing."

and

"It would have been nice to see Barbaro run against Bernardini," Matz said quietly. "It would have been good for racing. But I'm not going to be sour. How can I be sour. The horse has done a lot for me. Now we are going to try and do as much as we can for him."

I had dinner at the Brette's last night. They gave me a win picture from the Tropical Park Derby (How cool is that ?) I asked Peter how he looks, given all the concern of no recent pictures. Peter said while he has dropped a little weight (inevitable) his coat looks great (shiny) and his eye is bright, two very good signs he is doing well. We talked about many Barbaro things. I asked about the Florida Derby, and the stretch dual. Peter considered that was the making of the transition from boy to man for the horse. He said Edgar told him afterwards that it was very easy (despite what we were seeing). He did gallop out very strongly. Peter is visiting this morning, so will get an update after that visit

[Evalee Hunter]

. . . . this is confusing to me, not being versed in TB breeding. . . . I would think that for horses and all other sexually-produced beings, since half-siblings share half their genetic material (mitochondrial DNA which is conserved on the mother's side apart), they would be seen as such, whichever parent they share in common.

I have long used the term "brother in blood" or "sister in blood" for horses by the same sire. I have recently been criticized & told this is not the correct term, either, so maybe someone can clarify. The way I have used this is: "Broken Seal is a sister in blood to Tres Touche" meaning, both Broken Seal & Tres Touche are by Poles Apart, although out of different mares. As I said, I may be mis-using this. Anyway, my point is that there ARE breeding terms to designate relationships such as being by the same sire.

[farmgirl88]

i saw michael on ESPN yesterday, shaking Bernardini's trainers hand. Hes such a nice guy :)

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks to Alex:

Update 342: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (saturday night). Peter just visited Bobby to report the news, and said that Bobby looked good. Peter's tone was relatively upbeat!

A nice article in the UK Observer: The final furlong (http://observer.guardian.co.uk/osm/story/0,,1830761,00.html) rehashes the Barbaro story. A good resource for those wanting to get a good handle on the entire set of events. You might also pick up one or two additional insights.

Thanks Heather for the lovely basket delivered to our barn by Kennett Florist. The goodies have been eagerly distributed between our barn and Michael Matz's barn. Much appreciated. A belated thanks to Brandi for the popcorn. Sorry to say that stayed in our barn! As I was in the barn this morning (Tim called me to tell me there was a basket of goodies etc.) I got a chance to see Red Aspen. She looks good after her race yesterday, but tired. I also ran into Sheila Barndollar, who has been instrumental in putting together the raffle for a Mustang for Mike Rea. The drawing is tomorrow at Delaware Park, after the fourth race I think. Tim and I are planning on going. I hope to win! Let's hope Mike (http://mikerea.blogspot.com/) continues his good progress.

[Adamantane]

I have long used the term "brother in blood" or "sister in blood" for horses by the same sire. I have recently been criticized & told this is not the correct term, either, so maybe someone can clarify. The way I have used this is: "Broken Seal is a sister in blood to Tres Touche" meaning, both Broken Seal & Tres Touche are by Poles Apart, although out of different mares. As I said, I may be mis-using this. Anyway, my point is that there ARE breeding terms to designate relationships such as being by the same sire.

I thank you Evalee, Virginia and Oakstable for your information.

From those and other information someone provided me some time back, I understand that environmentally/educationally a foal gets infinitely more from the dam than the sire, of course, and that quality mares, with a very limited number of foals possible in a lifetime, are harder come by than quality sires. The latter are bred widely to just about anybody with the stud fee, and therefore can and often are bred to inferior mares who produce progeny that often fall closer to the mean. In addition the owners of quality mares don't waste a breeding cycle on some no-name sire who might just as well have been a random fence-jumper. This all makes sense and suggests that with no other information about individual horses or lines, on a statistical basis, the foals bred of a quality mare will turn out better on average than the foals of a quality sire.

That said, statistics are statistics and averages are averages.

Assuming that we are talking about breedings where the sires and dams involved are of comparable quality, I still don't see why there is a formal distinction between the relationship between foals of different sires out of the same mare, and the foals by the same sire out of different mares. Genetically it appears to be a wash.

Perhaps the special circumstance (comparable quality on both sides) I'm talking about is uncommon enough that distinct terms arose in conversation, since the majority of foals don't arise from lines where both the dam and the sire are of comparable quality and without checking pedigrees, nobody can readily tell, so without information to the contrary the different terminology just plays the averages.

Is this the situation, or is it something entirely different?

[MsM]

I have only heard the term "brothers in blood" for horses whose pedigrees match exactly past the parents' generation. So if your colts are by the same stallion and out of full sisters they would be "brothers in blood". Any combination that keeps the same grandparents would work.
If they share the same sire, they are usually referred to as being by that stallion or a (sire name) colt.
I still check this thread every day to check on Barbaro's progress. Also am always relieved when the sports headlines doesnt include him! Are they still lowering his pain meds or it it stable now?
I also wonder if things go as well as possible, how long the casts stay on and he stays at the hospital (Tho the staff is getting very well fed for their efforts!)

[VirginiaBred]

Daily (http://Daily) Racing Form (www.drf.com (http://www.drf.com))

Matz keeping an eye on Barbaro

By DAVID GRENING
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. - For the first time in 10 weeks, trainer Michael Matz's day did not include a visit to the George D. Widener Hospital at the New Bolton Center in Pennsylvania to visit Barbaro.That's because Matz was in Saratoga on Saturday where he ran two horses on the card. Of course, Barbaro was the major topic of discussion whenever people came up to Matz on the backstretch Saturday morning. Barbaro remains in the intensive care unit at New Bolton, where he's been since shattering his right hind leg in the early stages of the Preakness on May 20.
Matz did receive his daily 6:30 a.m. phone call from Dr. Dean Richardson, the chief of surgery at New Bolton who has played the biggest role in keeping Barbaro alive. Richardson told Matz that Barbaro had another good night Friday and that he continues to do as well as can be expected. It's been just over two weeks since Barbaro was found to have laminitis, a potentially fatal hoof disease, in his left hind foot, and was given a "poor" diagnosis for survival.
On Friday, Matz drove to Saratoga, where his wife D.D. and their four children are spending the first couple of weeks of the meet and where Matz has seven horses stabled in Barn 81, including the promising 2-year-old colt Diamond Fever. Matz has been encouraged by the progress Barbaro has made.
"He's been real good the last two weeks," Matz said. "They started to see a little growth in the coronet band in the foundered foot and Dean was real happy with the X-rays of the leg that was broken."
Matz, who planned to stay in Saratoga through Monday, said he has run through the gamut of emotions since Barbaro won the Kentucky Derby on May 6.
"At one point I thought I was going to win the Triple Crown with this horse, next time I was sort of resigned to the fact maybe it wasn't supposed to be and he's going to come through this and be a great stallion," Matz said. "Then, when this other thing happened, I sort of resigned myself that they were going to put him down. Next morning I go and look, there he is bright-eyed. Every time I had myself resigned to something that was going to happen it never did. I don't think physically I was getting tired, emotionally I never knew what to expect."

Matz gave some insight into Barbaro's daily routine.
"He goes in a sling at 8 or 9 o'clock in the morning," Matz said. "He sits in the sling; he's learned to use the sling. He stays there till 7 o'clock in the evening, they let him go, and he lies down.

"[When] he's anxious to get out of the sling, he moves around a bit, he makes noise like he doesn't like it any more. When he wants to get back in the sling he walks over to where the sling is. He's pretty amazing."

Matz continues to be amazed by the outpouring of support the public has shown, especially since the news broke about Barbaro having laminitis.
"When Dean announced that [Barbaro] had foundered, the next day there were over 35 baskets of carrots, and apples and flowers and mints at New Bolton center," Matz said. "People are sending breakfast for New Bolton Center from a place in New York. . . . The cards keep coming; everyday I get cards. Everybody always asks about him.
"He's fighting. If any horse can get through it, he can do it. That's what I got to keep hoping and try to keep positive."
Coincidentally, Matz was in Saratoga on the day Preakness winner Bernardini was running in the Jim Dandy.
"I'm anxious to see the race," Matz said. "Bernardini's a real nice horse. It sure would have been nice to see them run against each other; that's never going to happen."
Matz was asked if part of him was rooting for Bernardini to lose so that his chances of unseating Barbaro as 3-year-old champion would diminish.
"Right now, I'm more worried about saving his life instead of whether he's 3-year-old champion," he said.

[Adamantane]

(from the Daily Racing Form) Matz was asked if part of him was rooting for Bernardini to lose so that his chances of unseating Barbaro as 3-year-old champion would diminish.
"Right now, I'm more worried about saving his life instead of whether he's 3-year-old champion," he said.

Can't believe anyone would ask such an obnoxious dough-brained question. :no:

[VirginiaBred]

My continued thanks to Alex & Tim~

Update 343: No new update this evening. I am assuming that is a good thing. Lori Keith rode her first winner at Philadelphia Park today, in the first race. She is a friend, and its great to see her getting going at Philly. She had ridden a winner at Penn, and actually went to Saratoga yesterday and was fourth. I asked her her perspective on Barbaro, she said:

My heart goes out to everyone involved. The horse is obviously strong, and he is hanging in there. It really makes you want to pull for him even more, he is trying.

Very true words. Congrats on the win, and looking forward to seeing you at Fair Hill breezing.
Adrienne caught up with Michael Matz yesterday at Saratoga. She had this to say (comment at 5:35 pm from update 27 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_update_2.php)):

I was at Saratoga yesterday and actually had 2 michael signtings. The first was on a tour of the barns and track that was scheduled through the thoroughbred museum. Michael was with one of his children.
The second was in the paddock waiting for the post purade for the Jim Dandy. michael was walking into the paddock and I asked him how Barbaro was doing because I couldn't check Tim and Alex's web site as I was at Saratoga.I told him that I was one of those crazy and proud of it Barbaro fanatics. Michael said that he had a good night. I guess I heard the update as close as you can get from the horses mouth. He stopped for a second and I then asked him to thank Tim, Alex and the NBC staff for all of their wonderful work. I also told him that I hoped Barbaro enjoyed the carrots and the Delaware Park cap that I dropped off at the NBC 2 weeks ago. Finally he thanked me for the thoughts. Michael seems to be a really kind and understanding person. Barbaro you are really lucky!!!!

Wm & Cl, NH provides us this new poem (5:33 pm updates 27 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_update_2.php))

****Seabiscuit To Barbaro****
GO BOY GO,
Rest if you must,
Lord heal our great Barbaro
who's won a nation's trust.
Heart only like one other,
Seabiscuit's claim to fame-- There is but just another,
Barbaro's his name.
Living far greater,
Than one could hope for--
His spirit, God is creator,
More than Life's core!
He is destined for much more.
Strengthen him night and day--
What is needed to rest and snore.
Show his shining spirit today,
As a testament to hero lore!
You are the one to beat this,
With loving care and caress-- Believe Blessed with a kiss,
Lucky Swiftness your harness!
Make believers of doubters.
Great joy to be heard--
Help Campaign all ye shouters.
Help spread the good word!
Not just for Barbaro's fight,
But for Mike Rea's too-- May both heal day and night
Richly blessed by all of you!
Recovery's road may be long,
But tender care is there too-- Keep sending those donations.
Each and everyone of you.
Lend a hand to a friend,
Help a neighbor in need.
Hold up another, don't offend,
Is the word of this noble steed!
Contribute your time,
Your money, your hands--
Be it poetic rhyme.
Or prayers from all lands.
Expert minds can only wonder,
Seeing Barbaro's will to survive--
Marvel at MIRACLES we'll ponder,
Makes us thankful we are alive.
GO BARBARO GO,
Listen, rest, soak up our love!
You've grabbed us so--
Heaven's gift to us from above.
Whispering your wise ways,
Bring commonsense to reign--
Uplifting our hopes these days,
Lead us safely back home again.
Forever thanks to Alex & Mike,
Allowing others a sharing mind--
For blessed news raising the spike,
Focused on good and bad left behind--
Go BARBARO Go -- we all love you so!

I was at dinner tonight when our host (Sue) relayed a story from our local fair (which has been in town the last week). She was talking with the person responsible for the big cats, and they were planning to take a lioness to New Bolton to be spade. Sue mentioned how excited the person was at the thought that she might get a chance to see Bobby! (Not too likely, but its great to see how widespread Bobby Mania is!)
I am going to try to catch up with Tom Albertrani and get a quick interview on his Bobby perspective. He seems a really nice guy and I am sure has good things to say about Bobby. I have his phone number anyway!

[Spoilsport]

OK Spoiledsport, don't expect any sympathy from us. :lol:

:lol: :lol: Well, Susan P, I'd rather be riding :winkgrin: ! This is the fiirst thread I checked when I got back.

We met a couple last night at dinner. They're not horse-y people, but when Barbaro came up in the converstion the husband said he'd cried when he watched the race and again when he heard the news of the laminitis. When he said that, he was my friend for life :) It's magical how Barbarbo brings people together :) :) .

Boing, boing, boing!

[Kenike]

Glad to hear things seem to be continuing well....at least from the pages I glanced through (haven't been on here since Weds sometime)

Thanks for the updates...hope to keep reading, but have my own "injury" to recover from and have not a whole lot of energy right now....jingles continue for Bobby

[Susan P]

Wow, interesting reaction from non horsey people. Kind of expect there's a fair number that would watch this race and cheer for Barbaro, he just had that kind of appeal right from the start. I hope you had a nice chat after you made that common denominator.



:lol: :lol: Well, Susan P, I'd rather be riding :winkgrin: ! This is the fiirst thread I checked when I got back.

We met a couple last night at dinner. They're not horse-y people, but when Barbaro came up in the converstion the husband said he'd cried when he watched the race and again when he heard the news of the laminitis. When he said that, he was my friend for life :) It's magical how Barbarbo brings people together :) :) .

Boing, boing, boing!

[VirginiaBred]

Early Monday~

Update 345: This morning's update will again be delayed. Michael is still in Saratoga I think, returning today. I imagine I will know something by mid morning and be able to post then.
Update 344: We have seen Barbaro coverage in the UK, in New Zealand (http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/0607/116.shtml), and now Japan: Sympathy for a racehorse (http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/ed20060731a1.html). This article talks about the rationale for the sympathy directed towards Barbaro as the world is seemingly full of other tragedies. The conclusion:

Barbarophilia is certainly not logical. And it is sentimental, outrageously so. But here's a thought the anti-Barbaro crowd seems to have missed: Compassion isn't an either-or proposition. Interest in the fate of an injured horse in Pennsylvania doesn't preclude concern for terrified children in West Java or Baghdad or Tyre. Very likely, it's the same warmhearted people caring about the lot of them. Even if it wasn't, you can't legislate the flow of sympathy.

The following article: Bernardini could be Horse of Year (http://msnbc.msn.com/id/14105354/) I hesitated to post. Not because I don't admire another great racehorse, who won very easily over the weekend (although he really had nothing to beat), but because it was poorly written and factually inaccurate. Bobby was 6 for 6 going into the Preakness. I would also take issue with qualifying Albertrani's tenure with Godolphin as a sentence but since I don't know the guy (yet) I cannot confirm how much he enjoyed working with horses like Dubai Millenium.

[monstrpony]

Yes, there's a lot going on in the world to feel sympathy and compassion for--so much so, that many people become anesthetized and blind to it. Sometimes something like the Barbaro phenomenon can put us back in touch with our compassion, so that we open our eyes and start feeling again, and then doing, for all of the causes that are, in a human sense, more worthy (?) but less in the limelight.

[syntax_592]

Longtime lurker here just had to post. I am so amazed at the twists and turns in Barbaro's story and how everyone is pulling together for this horse. I was talking with a non-racing co-worker and the subject of Barbaro came up. He mentioned how it seemed almost a miracle that Barbaro was still alive and how dramatic his condition changed from "poor" to a much more hopeful one. I told him to never underestimate the power of prayer and there were thousands of people praying for this horse.

I believe that since a horse is so pure of heart, our prayers can have an amazing effect, much more so than on most of the other headlines of agony from all parts of the world.

I say that last part for those people who wonder why all the fuss over a horse when there is so much strife and hunger in the world. It's not that I care any less for people who are suffering, but let's face it, we (as people) bring a lot of misery onto ourselves. Barbaro has no hidden agenda and is not trying to manipulate us. He is completely at our mercy, and yet because of that, he can bring out the most noble in us.

[Sabovee]

Longtime lurker here just had to post. I am so amazed at the twists and turns in Barbaro's story and how everyone is pulling together for this horse. I was talking with a non-racing co-worker and the subject of Barbaro came up. He mentioned how it seemed almost a miracle that Barbaro was still alive and how dramatic his condition changed from "poor" to a much more hopeful one. I told him to never underestimate the power of prayer and there were thousands of people praying for this horse.

I believe that since a horse is so pure of heart, our prayers can have an amazing effect, much more so than on most of the other headlines of agony from all parts of the world.

I say that last part for those people who wonder why all the fuss over a horse when there is so much strife and hunger in the world. It's not that I care any less for people who are suffering, but let's face it, we (as people) bring a lot of misery onto ourselves. Barbaro has no hidden agenda and is not trying to manipulate us. He is completely at our mercy, and yet because of that, he can bring out the most noble in us.

Agreed on all points.

Maybe the power of positive thought was a concept Barbaro was put on earth to teach us.

[VirginiaBred]

From Alex:

Update 347: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (sunday night). I just spoke to Peter Brette who had just got off the phone with Michael Matz.
update 11:20 am, monday july 31
Update 346: No morning update yet, but Peter (Brette) did confirm Barbaro remained comfortable throughout the day sunday. Here is an article that appeared recently while we wait for an update from this morning. The Chicago Tribune: Veterinary hospital is breed apart (http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-0607290025jul29,1,4275902.story?coll=chi-newsnationworld-hed) writes about New Bolton Center, a nice compliment to their own video. Here is an excerpt about the recovery pool:

Normally, horses coming out of anesthesia after surgery are lying down in a recovery room. As they wake up, they must struggle to their feet, a dicey maneuver on freshly repaired ankles and legs. Moreover, a postoperative horse may be confused and thrash about in the recovery room, further jeopardizing the surgeon's work.
But in New Bolton's C. Mahlon Kline Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Center, an orthopedic surgical patient like Barbaro is lifted from the operating table in a sling suspended from a ceiling monorail system that can handle patients typically weighing 1,000 pounds. From there, the animal is conveyed to the nearby room containing the recovery pool, a bright blue circle of heated water, some 20 feet deep.
There, the animal is lowered into a black rubber raft with four long sleeves enclosing the legs. Once the raft is inflated, the horse remains floating there, typically for one or two hours, with nurses sitting close beside it. Thus, when the patient awakens, there is nothing hard anywhere near an injured leg, no matter how much it tries to thrash about.

A couple of blogs have written about this site: Animals We Can Love (http://www.newenglishreview.org/blog_direct_link.cfm?blog_id=1197) (that's Tim in the picture, not me) and Barbaro = Passion = Blog = Community (http://bloombergmarketing.blogs.com/bloomberg_marketing/2006/07/quick_question_.html). Toby, the author of the latter blog, is a "blog buddy".

[Claudius]

Does anyone know if these are available anywhere? Would like to get them for my grand children.

[Gunnar]

I am still jingling for you Bobby. The candle is lit and the curb chain is busy!

Thanks for the updates!

[Helen of NC]

Does anyone know if these are available anywhere? Would like to get them for my grand children.

Yes, they are... here you go:

http://horsehats.com/Barbaro.html

Not sure how their sizing runs, but it looks like just adult sizes are available. You might contact them to see if a "small" would fit your grandchildren.

[VirginiaBred]

From Alex:

Update 348: I just did a telephone interview with Tom Albertrani, trainer of Bernadini. I wanted to get his perspective on a couple of things, including obviously his thoughts re: Bobby. Here is the interview:

Me: I asked Tom about the mood after winning the Preakness.

Tom: While happy to win a triple crown race, there was a bad feeling. It was very upsetting to see such a great horse being put in the horse ambulance. No one wants to experience what Michael (and his team) had to experience. It definitely took away from the excitement of the victory. The day after the race, the mood was a little better, we could focus a little on the win, but we wished dearly for a great horse race. After Bernadini's win saturday in the Jim Dandy, Michael Matz was one of the first to congratulate me. Later in the evening I caught up with Michael again. He gave me an update on Barbaro, we are all really rooting for him.

Me: I asked Tom about his experience with Godolphin:

Tom: I had worked for Bill Mott for nine great years. The Godolphin (http://www.godolphin.com/index.asp) opportunity came along and it was an opportunity of a lifetime. It was an incredible experience. I got to travel all around the world, Ireland, France, Italy, Australia. I worked with some fantastic horses: Dubai Millenium, Fantastic Light, Street Cry, Swain, Halling ... we had an incredible 85 group one winners in seven years. Sheikh Mohammed is a great horseman (Sheikh Mohammed runs Godolphin and Darley Stud, owner of Bernadini). He is very hands-on, and on top of everything within the entire operation. He loves the sport of horse racing, its competitive nature. He would have loved nothing more than seeing a true rivalry, something akin to Affirmed and Alydar.

I have never met Tom. I do know a few people who have and who have worked with / for him. He does seem like a very cool guy.

[Daydream Believer]

I'm glad to hear Barbaro is still doing well!

[eggbutt]

I wondered when the comparisons of Barbara and Bernardini would begin in earnest! I suspect the comparisons will increase as we approach the Breeder's Cup too.

Candles lit this morning and I polished all the curb chains this weekend and actually replaced one with a bright shiny new one. Somone asked me recently if I used curb chains instead of a rosary.....yep!:)

Thanks for all the updates!

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks to Tim & Alex~

Update 349: Just returned from Delaware Park, where Mike's (http://mikerea.blogspot.com/) family and friends were present for the raffle drawing. It was great to meet Mike's sisters and see Rochelle (his wife). Sheila Barndollar did a fantastic job putting everything together, they sold all four hundred tickets. Rebecca Witzman won, so congratulations to Rebecca! Mike is progressing well. His sisters have lost internet access, hence why no updates for the lcast couple of days. They feel really badly about that. I will try to update their blog to alert people, but it may take a little time.


Jake posted a nice response to my interview with Tom Albertrani (update 348 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_updates_23.php#update348)) (comment at 4:35 pm) copied below:

You had only to look at Tom Albertrani's face that day at the Preakness to know a real horseman. Here his own horse is burning up the track, but I saw the double-take he gave when Michael Matz left the stands. He looked stunned, and saddened.
I feel for him, being unable to enjoy that incredible victory, and I know he would have loved to see Barbaro and Bernardini in the home stretch.
The true measure of a horseman isn't the exultation with which he wins, but the depth of feeling he has for the horses, without which there would be no sport.
I've seen that a lot with true horsemen; the face of Trudy McCaffrey when Freehouse won the Swaps but Hello broke down. She could barely keep her mind on the win---all she thought of was Hello.
And Marylou Whitney and Edgar Prado practically in tears when their Birdstone beat Smarty and denied him the Triple Crown.
And you want to talk about horsemen (and women) -you can't beat Roy and Gretchen Jackson, or Michael Matz, or Peter Brette, or all of the people who have been touched by Barbaro.

I mentioned to Tim today about the interview, and that I might try to contact Dan Hendricks for the same (Brother Derek's trainer). Tim reminded me that Dan was asked by the media shortly after the race how his horse was, his response was pretty much, who cares, how is Bobby! (OK, not quite like that, but that was the sentiment.)


Linda Lee wrote a nice poem in the comments (5:14 pm):

I have been looking for months now of all the pictures of Barbaro. I have written below what I see. After you read take a look again at your favorite picture of this GREAT horse.
Just Look in His Face!
(In Honor of Barbaro)
Just look, old souls you see,
Has he been on earth many times before?
Oh, what wisdom you see.
Just look deep, old souls you see,
His eyes? always are waiting for what is next.
Always remembering from the last race what he needs for the next.
Just look deeper; don't you want to watch those old souls too?
He is watching, grazing, running, healing, and pleasing.
Did you look for that old soul hiding there?
Just look, make it quick, don't miss those old souls resting there,
See an old soul asking to be set free
You want to be inside of that old soul too.
Just look
Just look deep
Just look deeper
Just look, make it quick
Linda Lee Smith (I usually sign just Linda Lee)
Boonsboro, Maryland

KEEP THE FAITH!

[VirginiaBred]

Monday Afternoon Update:

I just received an e-mail from Alex (Brown) to whom I am always giving thanks for the updates, and he and I have conspired to plan a 2nd Barbaro Vigil planned for Saturday, August 5th at 7pm.

So, please, where ever you are, please stop and have a moment for this courageous and brave horse, as he continues to heal.

Light a candle, say a prayer, jingle, have a moment of silence; whatever.

Please tell your friends, send e-mails, make telephone calls.

Send positive thoughts to Barbaro. :yes: :yes: :yes:

[VirginiaBred]

Update 350: Barbaro had another comfortable day (monday). I just spoke to Peter Brette, who had spoken to Michael.
It turns out the winner of the Mike Rea Mustang is a presenter for HRTV! (http://hrtv.com/) Congrats Becky!
We are planning our second vigil for saturday. While Bobby has been maintaining his comfort and has shown some positive medical signs, we know there is a very long road ahead, the vigil should help us stay focused on his well being and progress. 7pm saturday, whereever you are, whatever you are doing, think of Bobby.
I mentioned to Peter while we were chatting this evening about the interview I conducted with Tom Albertrani (update 348 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_updates_23.php#update348)). Peter of course knows Tom as Peter also used to work in Dubai. He only had good things to say about Tom.
Finally, another beautiful poem, thanks TLC (from updates 23 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_updates_23.php) 10:44 pm):

Work is slowing down a bit now and I just wrote this sitting here at my desk:
BELIEVE
Brought into this world,
learned to walk then to run,
admiration of beauty
racings devine son.
He ran with such grace,
superior to all,
until tradgedy struck,
will we watch the son fall?
No, his owners and trainers agreed.
This son is too special,
he has more heart than speed.
And the world embraced him,
prayers and good thoughts passed his way,
A nation of believers,
thankful for each and every day.
So when life gets you down,
and things seem a "no go",
Believe in Miracles
Believe in Barbaro

[ASB Stars]

That is wonderful, touching prose! BRAVO BARBARO!!!

Brava VB!!

[Susan P]

If they don't want a gathering at Fair Hill Training Center I would be happy to use my farm just a couple miles away for a gathering for a group vigil. It would be great for those of us to gather in prayer for those that would be so inclined.



Monday Afternoon Update:

I just received an e-mail from Alex (Brown) to whom I am always giving thanks for the updates, and he and I have conspired to plan a 2nd Barbaro Vigil planned for Saturday, August 5th at 7pm.

So, please, where ever you are, please stop and have a moment for this courageous and brave horse, as he continues to heal.

Light a candle, say a prayer, jingle, have a moment of silence; whatever.

Please tell your friends, send e-mails, make telephone calls.

Send positive thoughts to Barbaro. :yes: :yes: :yes:

[ivy62]

Susan P That is a wonderful offer, I wish I lived close enough to join you guys. I will be there in spirit! Jingles for Barbaro! Have to go light another candle....

[VirginiaBred]

Thank you Alex:

Update 351: As we wait for an update this morning we have an article and a new poem.

The DailyLocal.com: Vet: Barbaro's smarts aiding his recovery (http://www.dailylocal.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=16990750&BRD=1671&PAG=461&dept_id=17782&rfi=6), is a nice article on the intelligence of Barbaro, and how he has adapted to his current situation, it quotes both Peter Brette and Kathy Anderson. The following is an excerpt:

"Barbaro is not aggressive, but he is very confident," Anderson said.
"He has always been in charge of his space, and he continues to assert that at the hospital. He's become known as a sneak biter. When people turn their back on him, he tries to bite them. They turn around and he's like, 'Who did that, butter wouldn't melt in my mouth.' I think that's pretty clever."
Anderson added: "He's adapted to the sling. I like to think he understands that if I shift my weight this way, I feel better. I'd say that's not typical of racehorses. They're so competitive, they just react, rather than having a planned action."



Bernell Kress could not sleep, so wrote this for us (Posted by: Bernell Kress at August 1, 2006 05:00 AM):

You are the wings beneath our wings,
But, no longer will you fly.
You've captured the hearts of all with a soul,
And we are content with gazing in your eyes.
You are our hero, don't you know?
With courage and fight deep in your soul.
No one can say what you think in your mind,
You're an old sould, Barbaro, perhaps that's what keeps you ever so kind.
Intelligence far beyond your years,
Your eyes reduce us all to tears.
If we could take your pain, it would be gone,
And you would once again be flying along.
Your perils have brought so many close,
We light your candles from coast to coast.
Sweet Barbaro, please have no fear,
Cause all that love you are so near.
So rest and heal, oh ancient one,
You've been here before and you're not done.
You are teh wind beneath our wings,
And when you fly again, your world will sing.

[VirginiaBred]

From: www.dailylocal.com

Vet: Barbaro’s smarts aiding his recovery
A century ago, a bay horse named Beautiful Jim Key was one of America’s most celebrated performers, famous neither for his beauty nor his speed, but instead for his exceptional intelligence.


Performing at state fairs and in nationwide expositions, the horse could "read, write, spell, do math, tell time, sort mail, distinguish between coins, make change and identify playing cards."
Trained by Dr. William Key, a self-taught veterinarian, former slave and Civil War veteran, the gifted horse also sparked a dramatic shift in the public’s mind in regard to kindness bestowed on animals.

But mostly, Beautiful Jim Key astonished crowds everywhere with his "smarts."

In the aftermath of Barbaro’s injury and recovery, the colt’s lead doctor at the New Bolton Center, Dr. Dean Richardson, has repeatedly cited Barbaro’s intelligence.
Peter Brette, Barbaro’s exercise rider and the assistant trainer in Michael Matz’s barn, marveled at the colt’s wits during a recent visit.

"They had taken him out of his sling and it appeared he was getting a little uncomfortable," Brette said. "He walked over toward the sling, as if he wanted to say, ‘Hey, put me back in that thing.’ They put him in the sling, and you could tell he was happy."

Just how smart are elite horses? Veterinarians and other equine experts have said horses have a great ability to learn and possess a strong memory. They are social animals that learn from their experiences. An elite horse is also very good at reading body language, and often anticipates a handler’s intentions.

Horses in pastures don’t adapt their behavior to humans, but those that are stabled very much do. As noon approached in Matz’s barn at the Fair Hill Training Center, a groom rattled a cup of feed and nearly all of the racehorses acted up. That’s a learned behavior and form of intelligence, said Kathy Anderson, Barbaro’s attending vet.

"Barbaro is not aggressive, but he is very confident," Anderson said.

"He has always been in charge of his space, and he continues to assert that at the hospital. He’s become known as a sneak biter. When people turn their back on him, he tries to bite them. They turn around and he’s like, ‘Who did that, butter wouldn’t melt in my mouth.’ I think that’s pretty clever."

Anderson added: "He’s adapted to the sling. I like to think he understands that if I shift my weight this way, I feel better. I’d say that’s not typical of racehorses. They’re so competitive, they just react, rather than having a planned action."
When Barbaro shattered his leg at the start of the Preakness, the colt allowed jockey Edgar Prado to pull him up and he stood there calmly as the attending vet placed a cast on his right hind leg and led him into the horse ambulance. Had he tried to continue to run, he most likely would have suffered a compound fracture and would have had no chance of survival. When he arrived at the New Bolton Center that night, Barbaro withstood all the personnel and medical action much more calmly than the average racehorse.

"He knew he needed to accept all this attention," Anderson said. "His personality shifted. He knew he needed to be more flexible."

Anderson compares the change to the behavior of household pets. Cats are aloof and independent, while dogs tend to want company and affection.

"He’s shifted from a cat-like mentality to that of a dog," Anderson explained. "Barbaro was never unfriendly when he was here, but again, he wanted his space. Now he has to cooperate with a lot of people. He may or may not enjoy it, but he realizes it’s what he needs to do to feel better."


TERRY CONWAY, Special to the Local News
08/01/2006

[VirginiaBred]

Many thanks to Tim/Alex~

Update 352: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (monday night). Michael Matz gave me the update as I was heading out to the track on my third set this morning. It was good to see Michael back at Fair Hill.
Kathy Anderson visited Bobby yesterday evening and also reported that he was doing well. He was in good spirits and looking for a good rub which he of course received, in the form of a massage from Kathy!
updated Tuesday morning 7:35 am

[Susan P]

VB, wow, great Barbaro story! I love the explanation of his intelligence. I've seen some horses do amazing things and I would think it helps their survival.

[I'm EBO]

I haven't read anything further about reducing the amount of pain meds he's getting. Any more news on that?

Thanks for all your updates. After I feed my horses (or sometimes before, if it's still too dark), I check here to see how our boy is doing. LOVE reading the good news.

[Gunnar]

Really great poems!

Jingling for you Bobby!:sadsmile:

[ivy62]

Those poems are great! I was wondering if they are using any sedatives on him to keep him that quiet? I cannot believe with his fiesty nature he would be so quiet, but one never knows do they. I had my horse on 2 1/2 weeks of stall rest and he was nuts! and he is generally a quiet horse!
Anyway, keep on truckin' Barbaro..........
Thanks VB for keeping us updated.....

[carol_okc]

Excellent (and encouraging) AP story this afternoon:

By DAN GELSTON, AP Sports Writer
27 minutes ago



KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. - Barbaro's right hind bones are healing so well his cast could have been off by now, if not for the laminitis in his other hind leg.

Dr. Dean Richardson said Tuesday that the painful hoof disease the Kentucky Derby winner has is preventing the cast from being removed because the colt could not protect himself by bearing more weight on the left hind.

Barbaro suffered life-threatening injuries when he broke three bones above and below his right rear ankle at the start of the May 20 Preakness.

"If he hadn't had the founder (laminitis) on his left hind, he'd probably be out of the cast and he'd probably be in a splinted bandage on the shoe," Richardson said in a telephone interview. "That's where we'd likely be. I can't do that because his left hind is the more sore of the two legs right now."

Barbaro's left hind hoof, which was stricken with a severe case of laminitis, is improving and started to show slight signs of re-growing after 80 percent of it was removed. Barbaro needs to regrow the hoof if he is to have any shot of walking — albeit with a hitch in his gait.

Barbaro, still in stable condition, has the bandage on his left hind foot changed daily.

"It's too early to see true hoof wall forming," Richardson said from the New Bolton Center. "But the coronary band, the part of the hoof that's the equivalent of the nail bed where the hoof is going to grow down from, that looks very good. It's too early to see a lot."

Barbaro has been in an intensive care stall at the George D. Widener Hospital since his horrific injuries in the second race of the Triple Crown series. Barbaro sustained a broken cannon bone above the ankle, a broken sesamoid bone behind the ankle and a broken long pastern bone below the ankle. The fetlock joint — the ankle — was dislocated.

Richardson said after performing surgery the pastern bone was shattered in "20-plus pieces."

Now, the right hind may be the least of Barbaro's worries in what remains a tedious, long recovery.

"Everything looks good under the cast," Richardson said. "The X-rays looked as good as they can look."

Richardson was concerned the 3-year-old colt would try to put too much weight on the rear hind if the cast was removed. Richardson said the left rear hoof has to regrow and stay healthy.

Richardson said the colt's prognosis was "poor" after it was stricken with laminitis, but eased off that grim outlook Tuesday.

"I don't know. Everyday that goes by, it's great," he said. "He has so long to go I don't even think about the prognosis. We just work on the horse and hope he continues to be happy."

Barbaro looks bright and happy with a voracious appetite to those who see him. Owner Gretchen Jackson usually visits twice daily to feed Barbaro fresh-cut grass from her nearby farm.

"It makes me feel better about the poor guy stuck in there," she said. "He likes it."

Jackson and her husband, Roy, said they look at Barbaro's recovery as a day-to-day process and try not to let their emotions ride too high over good news or get discouraged over changes in his condition.

"Just looking at him, he hasn't changed at all from the way he's been all along," she said. "If you had that as all you could go by, you couldn't believe he wasn't going to make it."

[Fancy]

Wow!!!!!
:D :D :D :D
Sounds like we're half way home! Of course, the lamanitis is the hardest half, but this IS progress. I was afraid that his right leg wasn't knitting since we hadn't heard about it.
:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:
Wish Bobby could be out on green grass. Well, soon, maybe.
:yes: :yes: :yes: :yes:

[VirginiaBred]

Sorry for the delay, no internet!!!

Update 354: As we wait for the press release from New Bolton I thought I would highlight some more content from the comments. Mike C has composed race calls in honour of Bobby, this is the latest (3:20 pm post time):

MORE OF THE CALL...And the horses thunder down the backstretch,Barbaro still has a lot of work to do", says Durkin. "He's back in the race, but he's not in his usual up close stalking position after the 2 disasterous mishaps in this race".As the leaders begin to hit the far turn Durkin is calling the positions of the horses in the race using names and colors to describe them in his adjective littered call.As he gazes thru his binocs and he gets to BARBARO, now in mid pack we pick up his call." And now BARBARO IS BACK,here in mid pack an unlikely spot in both a bad and good way, he's usually close to the pace but with what happened today its already an amazing comeback.Edgar pulls down a pair of goggles and he almost seems to be smiling now, WHY COULD HE BE SMILING??.DID WE NOT SEE THE BEST OF BARBARO ALREADY TODAY??.Edgar still has a handful of reins ladies and gentleman meaning he still has a ton of horse under him"..This could be a comeback of TITANIC proportions, Edgar is smiling like a guy holding 5 aces, he knows he's on a time bomb here waiting to explode, but after all the hardships thrown BARBAROS' way just how much is lift in the tank???.But by the look on Edgar's face, and determination in BARBAROS eyes I'm not willing to bet against the miracle we may just see here today".....The crowds roar heightens with every stride of the horses,you can now hear cries of "C'MON BARBARO,LETS GO BOY" becoming more evident above the thunderous roars of the thousands anticipating the tremendous finish that lies ahead.....

Bobby left this poem (1:36 pm):

Barbaro In The Hospital
I hear the cottonwoods
whisperin' above
Barbaro, Barbaro
horse that we love
the breeze from the paddock
keeps murmuring low
Barbaro, Barbaro
we love you so
Does he really know
through his trials we go
with him each day
our hearts beat so painfully
when in his swing
he sways
But in time we know
our Barbaro
will always prevail
He's never lost
no mind the costs
his spirit will not fail
So in miracles
we never doubt
and will love him each day
until he's healed
and it is time
Mighty Barbaro will
proudly walk away

Update 353: This site was featured in an article in the Philadelphia Inquirer today: To check up on Barbaro, check out his blog (http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/sports/15167536.htm?source=rss&channel=inquirer_sports). I wanted to thank Mike Jensen for the great story, and Michael Bryant for the cool pictures (they are in the real paper, page 5 of the sports section). The paper actually has a more complete story than the online version. I see the online version is also available via mercurynews etc. I really appreciate the coverage! As I am sure people are aware, this site would not be possible without the support of many, I am going to name some, but no doubt will forget others who are important: Michael Matz, Peter Brette, Kathy Anderson, Tim Woolley, Eliza, Jen, Annie etc. Mike and Michael, thanks for coming down to Fair Hill.

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Alex!

Update 357: Kennett Florist visited NBC today and had this to report (updates 29 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_updates_24.php): 7:49pm):

Breakfast this morning, was a hit as usual! Fresh bagels and all the fixin's... They were still hot! Before they even announced it there were people waiting to dig in. I had the chance to meet a fellow Barbaromaniac, Kathy (who was so generous to supply breakfast for NBC today), as she was on her way to NBC to hang a sign. I hope she has a safe trip to IL the next couple of days. It was so nice to finally meet one of the people we've spent time talking with... You know, if anyone is planning a trip this way, we reccommend coming during the mushroom festival in September - one of Kennett Square's main events.
All is quiet this afternoon. I hid away a big basket of goodies for the 3rd shift and brought up some treats for Bobby. It's so wonderful to hear from Dr. Anderson that he still has that 'larger than life' personality! Thank you all again for all the love and support for Bobby and the NBC staff.
WE BELIEVE!!
Rachel at Kennett Florist

Vicky Jasch, who was interviewed for our Philadelphia Inquirer (http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/sports/15167536.htm?source=rss&channel=inquirer_sports) story had this to add about the interview (updates 29 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_updates_24.php): 7:43pm):

It was a lot of fun answering Mike's questions for his article posted today. AS I said in the article, Barbaro blew me away the first time he ever set foot on the track, and I was his #1 fan before most people knew he existed. And I still am. I am so glad there are so many people rooting for him, and praying for him. But from the very start, I felt such a strong connection with him as I felt his mighty power that he exerted. He made my heart beat fast, as I knew from his first start, he was something so special. Something that we had not seen in over 2 decades. He is the first horse since the Bid in 1979 that I thought had a very good shot at the crown. Now, my prayer is only for his full recovery. He has made his mark in the history books, and in my heart forever.

Update 356: Must read AP interview: Barbaro's right hind healing well (http://msn.foxsports.com/horseracing/story/5799466). its an interview today with Dr. Richardson. The following are excerpts:

"If he hadn't had the founder (laminitis) on his left hind, he'd probably be out of the cast and he'd probably be in a splinted bandage on the shoe," Richardson said in a telephone interview. "That's where we'd likely be. I can't do that because his left hind is the more sore of the two legs right now."
Barbaro's left hind hoof, which was stricken with a severe case of laminitis, is improving and started to show slight signs of re-growing after 80 percent of it was removed. Barbaro needs to regrow the hoof if he is to have any shot of walking - albeit with a hitch in his gait.

and

"It's too early to see true hoof wall forming," Richardson said from the New Bolton Center. "But the coronary band, the part of the hoof that's the equivalent of the nail bed where the hoof is going to grow down from, that looks very good. It's too early to see a lot."

and

Richardson said the colt's prognosis was "poor" after it was stricken with laminitis, but eased off that grim outlook Tuesday.
"I don't know. Everyday that goes by, it's great," he said. "He has so long to go I don't even think about the prognosis. We just work on the horse and hope he continues to be happy."

Update 355: New Bolton Center's Press Release: Barbaro's condition continues to remain stable (http://www.vet.upenn.edu/newsandevents/news/Barbaro_Update8-1.htm):

Chief of Surgery Dean Richardson reports that Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro's condition continues to be stable. The colt's left hind foot, which has laminitis, is monitored closely for signs of infection. "We change his left hind foot bandage daily, and it looks good," said Dr. Richardson. "His right hind leg also looks good, and his appetite remains strong."
Barbaro remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the University of Pennsylvania’s George D. Widener Hospital.
The next update will be posted on Thursday, August 3, unless there is a significant change in Barbaro's condition.

Congratulations to the Jackson's for a nice win at Goodwood: Lael Stables's undefeated Enticing wins Molecomb Stakes (http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/todaysnews/newsview.asp?recno=65458&subsec=1).
I am continuing to interview racing personalities, I have just got off the phone with Dan Hendricks, trainer of Brother Derek. I hope to have his interview posted tonight.

[Equine Connection]

Thanks so much for the continued details and other information about Barbaro. This is the first and last place I check every day! Thanks again.

[ivy62]

The updates are always appreciated I hope the laminitis does become his downfall that would be awful! Glad to hear the leg doing well that he broke so maybe he will see sunshine soon? Still JIngling and lighting candles GO Barbaro!

[eggbutt]

Super updates...thank you as always! Candles lit for today for Bobby and others. There's also a group called "PEACE" that may benefit from our efforts too!:yes: Imagine the collective jingle power of hundreds of thousands of people on the same mission. :yes:

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Alex & Tim:

Update 360: Saw Kathy Anderson as I was leaving (a very hot) Fair Hill this morning. She also visited Bobby yesterday and said he was "chipper". Mrs. Jackson was visiting at the time Kathy was there. We talked a little bit about the issues that Bobby faces, especially given the positive news we heard yesterday. It seems there are three issues:
a. the left hind needs to grow hoof, there has been some growth around the coronet band. This is very important, and obviously something they are checking and working on everyday (I think we know they change the bandage / cast on it everyday etc.)
b. they need to avoid Bobby contracting Laminitis in any of his other three feet. I do not know what they are doing to prevent this, but know they are doing everything experts would do. I did ask Kathy if she had checked the front feet for herself, and she had.
c. the right hind needs to continue to heal, we have heard only positive things about this lately.
Its nice to see Bobby coverage when there is good news, apparently Good Morning America had a little coverage (comment 1:15 Cathy):

Guys, "Good Morning America" this morning was running on the bottom of their screen about our sweetie Barbaro and how is leg is heeling and that the owner commenting he continues to seem bright and happy. I did not listen to the entire broadcast as they may have slipped in a 10 second update from the announcers, but was still great to see on national tv at 7:00AM EST.Barbaro got billing on his health along with Pres. Bush and Castro! Out of the three, you know who I would pick for President!!


Update 359: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (tuesday night). I saw Michael Matz as I was coming on to the track for my third set. He had just heard from Dean Richardson. Barbaro also received another massage last night after Michael's evening visit.
updated wednesday 7:15am
Update 358: This site has now served over a million pageviews! (http://www.sitemeter.com/?a=stats&s=sm6timwoolley&r=0) Yesterday's article in the Philadelphia Inquirer helped the site to its second largest day, about 17,000 visits (http://www.sitemeter.com/?a=stats&s=sm6timwoolley&r=35). The site was also mentioned in Horsetalk NZ (http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/0608/010.shtml) and this Philly Inquirer blog. (http://blogs.philly.com/blinq/2006/08/xponential_musi.html)
The creativity continues with the following poems:
TLC (Laura), posted in update 29 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_updates_24.php): 7:38 pm

For Barbaro...
Happy thoughts,
healing prayers,
filling up our minds.
All being sent for the glorious cause,
Barbaro-
exquisite equine.
Inspiration to so many,
strong in countless ways.
With bated breath, on pins and needles,
we patiently wait out the days.
Our hope is that we will someday see you
grazing in a beautiful pasture.
Head held high, no more pain,
A blessing from our master.
Dear, sweet boy, how our hearts cry out
each and every day,
That the miracle of you, Barbaro
will continue to light our way.
So continue to heal,
get stronger with time,
we're cheering you on from the stands.
For you are the definition of courage,
of hope, placed in God's hands.

WM Wm & Cl, posted in update 30 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/08/barbaro_updates_25.php), 11:22 PM

Barbaro's Recovery Road
Another day that goes into night -
Our Barbaro "Bobby" continues his fight!
Powerful will and spirit so strong -
Keeps healing right as time marches along!
The resounding cadence he clearly hears -
Turns prayerful tears back to joyful cheers!
Stable and comfortable, caring and able-
Now he is greater than legend Clark Gable.
This Hero brings nations to vigilant prayer-
and his GOOD NEWS travels faster than air.
Peoples voices heard far and wide-
Cheering our "Bobby" on his new ride!
Songs of praise ring through our land-
Adapts to his sling with a helping hand!
Loving nuzzles Team Barbaro returns-
Wiser and smarter than man, "Bobby" learns!
He's captured our hearts and given us hope-
Be soldier or child, he helps everyone cope!
Setbacks in life will only be fleeting-
As Barbaro "Bobby" hears our song's greeting!
Raises us all to stand on mountain tops --
Barbaro's recovery road never stops.
Mystifying faith, he walks on stormy seas-
O' Lael legs move gracefully as you please.
Glimpses of him in us, inside ledge's boulders-
'We are strong when we are on your shoulders.'
Moving slowly, trotting faster, eager to see-
Keeps raising us up greater than we can ever be!
Our Barbaro's recovery road may be long -
His hero's heart rhythms inspire poetic song!
Ambassadors from all states must unite-
Campaigning for Barbaro's toughest fight!
One that will change horseracing forever -
Horse and Jockey athletes safer together!
Make up your mind and do what you must-
For our Barbaro's sake, he's asking your trust!
"Citizens unite" says Barbaro's voice-
Show Congress Track Safety is the right choice!
Sixteen thousand have visited this site.
No small feat in facing Barbaro's plight!
Help make a difference, heed Barbaro's call-
When this goes before Congress this coming Fall.
Take time to review all the facts of this case-
Go to Petition Online thinking with grace.
What if I had to travel recovery's road too?-
How would I make things better for you?
Won't you please take some time to stop in?
Where positive difference helps Barbaro win!
Recovery road may appear seemingly long-
But our Barbaro continues to keep us strong.
"The pen is mighter than the sword", once said.
Rest easier now Barbaro comfortably in bed.
Reporters and journalists are helping out too-
Spreading good news on campaign's trail for you.
Come join voices and hands with our Barbaro-
Be his ambassadors to correct life's "uh oh"!
Change for better, recovery's road new name-
Help Barbaro with us make our new claim!
Our Congress listens and understands-
What is needed for Track Safety in our lands!
Go to www.petitiononline.com/cares/petition.htm

[debsinsb]

I was happy to see some coverage last night on KNBC and this AM on the Today Show. Just brief mentions, but to the effect that he is doing well. The newscaster last night mentioned the huge public response also!!

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks again to Alex!

Update 361: Yesterday I interviewed Dan Hendricks over the telephone. This is the second short telephone interview I have conducted for the site, the first: Tom Albatrani (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_updates_23.php#update348). The purpose of the interviews is to highlight how our horseman have been impacted by Barbaro while also providing insight into our leading trainers.
While I did not know Tom Albatrani before my interview, I did know many people who knew him, so I was pretty hopeful of getting to talk to him. I do not know anyone who knows Dan Hendricks, so I had no idea if I he would talk to me. Anyway, once I got his number, I called. I was hoping for his answering machine so i could leave a detailed message in the hopes he would call back (this is what happened with Tom, and he called back within 15 minutes). Not the case for Dan Hendricks, he answered his phone. I tried to explain the purpose of the call, and as I was explaining he simply said, sure, ask me what you want. It was a great conversation, and Dan was very forthcoming. We ended up talking about places back in the UK etc!
Anyway, the purpose of the interview was Barbaro, here is what he had to say when I posed a very open ended question: "Tell me about the Preakness and your thoughts for Barbaro":
Dan Hendricks: The Preakness turned out to be the biggest roller coaster of emotions a lot of us have ever experienced in horse racing. I came with one of the favourites (Brother Derek) to win the race. As we waited for the race with all the build up first Barbaro broke through the gate early. . Subsequently Brother Derek broke poorly, which took him out of our game plan.Then the devastating site of Seeing Barbaro being pulled up so soon after the start just left a big hole in my stomach. It was the biggest drop in the roller coaster ride. I find it very difficult to explain how you feel when things like this happen. I was asked shortly after the race how my horse was. I knew he was OK, but we were all more concerned with Barbaro.
Everyday we come to work. We read and learn what we can about Barbaro's condition. My thoughts are for him, the Jackson's and Michael Matz. They showed tremendous class through all of this. There are still lingering effects to this incident and were all pulling for Barbaro. Its certainly not business as usual. We feel for horses more than people typically know. Recently we had a horse, Cozy Guy, a gelding, who we tried everything we could do to save his life after a sickness knowing he would never run again, it was very sad when he did not pull through. Good luck to all.
Dan Hendricks also let me know Brother Derek breezed this morning, 59 4/5ths (5/8ths mile).

[eggbutt]

WOW :eek: A real class act in my opinion!

[VirginiaBred]

Update 362: A few things to cover.

It is sad to note the passing of Fitz Eugene Dixon (http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/15182314.htm). He was a longtime patron of Fair Hill, he had horses with Dr. Fisher and Michael Matz. Peter told me about the passing, he noted that Mr. Dixon and Michael were close.


On a more uplifting note Kennett Florist visited NBC today and had this to report:

Alie went to the NBC today and there were two white tigers, one lion, and two lionesses there! Everyone was upbeat and excited today- and REALLY excited to see the goodies we brought. Alie was told that Bobby already had some baby carrots with the greens on top that we brought today, and we were told that he really likes them- they're the best! Thank you all for your continued support for Bobby, the New Bolton Center, and us here at Kennett Florist :) As always, we will update tomorrow when we get back from our deliveries.

I noted previously someone was taking a lioness to be spade, perhaps she was part of this group.
The following article (http://www.niagarafallsreporter.com/hanchette215.html) has been suggested as excellent reading for those interested in the horse slaughter bill.
And finally the following poem, from Lorraine (update 31 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/08/barbaro_updates_26.php) 12:54 pm):

Positive updates cheer me, my heart soars
Knowing with each passing day, more hope than
before.
Amazing Barbaro- you have been, right from the start,
In spirit and courage, coming from within.
You uplift us all, showing character and grace,
Showing how possible it is to stay in the race--
Barbaro, you have lit the way,
All who love you will continue to hope and pray--
That progress is made, and you will be a healty
horse someday,
Grazing in pastures,under a sky so sunny blue,
A miracle in our world, that did come true.
We believe in Barbaro!

[Susan P]

VB, thanks for sharing the update and the article. :)

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks to Tim & Alex~

Update 362: The Philadephia Inquirer (http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/sports/15167536.htm?source=rss&channel=inquirer_sports) article about this site was picked up by a couple of other news media the next day, with a new title: Barbaro's fans hold Web vigil (http://www.kentucky.com/mld/kentucky/sports/15177246.htm?source=rss&channel=kentucky_sports). Oddly, while the Lexington Herald Leader seemed to be first to pick it up, others (ContraCostaTimes (http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/cctimes/sports/horse_racing/15177246.htm) and MiamiHerald (http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/sports/horse_racing/15177246.htm)) did so using the Lexington Heralds "title tag", so they must have simply used the same "code" as the Lexington Herald ? I assume Lexington Herald got the story from MercuryNews.
Some content from the comments from update 32 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/08/barbaro_updates_27.php).
First an uplifting, if not amusing story (Nancy in CT: 11:59 pm):

LINNIE RE YOUR BARBARO HAT (and anyone else who cares to wade through this message) - forgot to tell you my funny story: I held off buying a hat until I saw that they were donating "a portion" of the proceeds to the Barbaro Fund, so it just arrived a few days ago. It's hot as the fires of hell here in CT, and I'm very heat-sensitive, so I wore it walking to the bus stop after work on Monday. A man approached me and said, "Are you one of those maniacs?" My initial reaction (who me, sensitive?) was, If he says something idiotic like "it's JUST a horse" I could be prone to violence...especially in 95 degree heat! Over the space of just a few seconds I saw myself being arrested for assault in defense of "just a horse named Barbaro" and what's really funny is that I would have been arrested by one of the members of our mounted unit - all pals of mine! But wisdom prevailed, I counted to ten and replied, "What do you mean?" HERE'S THE GREAT PART - he said that he'd stumbled on this site while looking for info, saw that it appeared to be all women, felt uncomfortable...and left, but NOT before seeing references to BARBAROMANIACS and that's why he wondered if I was "one of those maniacs"! After I stopped laughing, I begged him to come back here - don't think he will - he just seemed interested rather than obsessed/addicted like the rest of us. He wanted to know about sending a gift and I mentioned the florist and also that I was ordering some all-natural treats online AND HE ACTUALLY PRESSED $5. UPON ME TO FEEL PART OF SENDING GOODIES TO BARBARO! There was absolutely no convincing him to take his money back (and I was moved to tears, to be honest) and when I asked him how he knew I wouldn't take his money and go to Burger King or something like that, he said, "BECAUSE YOU WOULDN'T BE WEARING THAT SILLY HAT WITH YOUR BUSINESS CLOTHES IF YOU WEREN'T THE REAL DEAL!!"

A poem (Anna 11:16 pm):

On wings unseen
you surely fly
by pure design
no cause to lie
loved for your beauty
your heart, your fire
you run for joy;
innate desire
you heal our sorrows
and trust our hands
giving unselfishly,
with no demand
we take credit
surely not due
only One above
created you
be you statuesque stud
or humble plow
we owe you much
and repay…how?

and a poem (Jo 10:59 pm):

Ruler Of The Wind...
The wind knows you..
The wind loves you..
The wind has kissed you..
and you..dark wonder horse.. have danced with the wind..
The wind misses you...
The wind sings to you each day
Breathing life ..healing and health so softly..whispering...
That she longs to dance with you again..
Yet at this time, when that dance has
become a cherished memory in your mind..
It still.. is... with ... you...
It caresses your body gently where you sleep..
and.. heal...and dream ..
She lulls you to peaceful rest..
Whistles softly...sweetly..
She will always be with you..
and you with her..
Sweet Barbaro.. ruler of the wind..

[ivy62]

Thanks VB for the am up date. can someone tell me how we will kown if the laminitis getting better? I know the reports will tell us but I have not faced this issue with my horse, thank god, and am curious about the recovery? And how is it treated other then hoof resection, then what? Sounds like the broken leg is doing well though that is a relief....
Keep on going Barbaro

[VirginiaBred]

From Alex:

Update 363: Another comfortable night for Barbaro (wednesday night). Saw Michael Matz as I was coming back from the track on my second set. He had just heard from Dr. Richardson. I also expressed my condolences to Michael about the passing of Mr. Dixon.
Updated Thursday 7:05am

[eggbutt]

Thanks VB for the am up date. can someone tell me how we will kown if the laminitis getting better? I know the reports will tell us but I have not faced this issue with my horse, thank god, and am curious about the recovery? And how is it treated other then hoof resection, then what? Sounds like the broken leg is doing well though that is a relief....
Keep on going Barbaro

Ivy62.....laminitis doesn't actually get "better". If his coffin bone rotated, it's probably rotated forever. That can be handled sometimes with special shoes and pads to keep him comfortable. I don't recall seeing anything about rotation though. The process for healing is very, very, very long. They must wait and see if healthy horn grows back in and stays healthy. They have removed all the horn that would have become "seedy" and come off anyway. They have removed the pressure and are treating him daily to prevent infection. Truly, imagine removing a fingernail and waiting for a new nail to grow back and hope that your nail bed doesn't become infected....all the while putting full weight on the nail bed. It's horribly painful and is an excrutiatingly slow process. Been there too many times regretfully. Hopefully with the extreme care he's being given, there will be no infection and his horn will grow back healthy and there was no coffin rotation. It will take 6 - 9 - 12 months to fully grow the horn completely. In my personal experience, although healthy horn began growing it became seedy and had to be removed again after several months. If all goes well, this may be the only episode of laminitis Bobby endures since it was probably weight bearing related rather than systemically/high temperature related. It will truly be horrible if he developes laminitis in either of his front feet. Keep jingling and lighting candles and remember Saturday's vigil!!!:yes: :yes: :yes:

[ivy62]

Thanks for the explaination Eggbutt. I hope my horse never faces anything like that eventhough we have had awful hoof issues....Have to light another candle....

[I'm EBO]

Let me add to eggbutt's explanation of rotation--in most cases you can "fix" rotation by trimming the foot--lowering the heels, keeping the toe short, during the recovery period until P3 is again normally positioned within the hoof-- but it is the hoof capsule that's being remodeled, not the actual bone (P3). I have one horse that was severely foundered (before I had him) with 14 degree rotation in one front foot, 9 degree in the other. Another of my horses was also foundered, but much less severely, with 3 degrees rotation in both fronts. Both these horses are barefoot and sound today. (Both had founder resulting from metabolilc issues, not trauma, but the results inside the hoof are the same.)

"Rotation" means that the tip/front of the coffin bone, P3, loses laminar support in the toe area and tips forward toward the sole. The degree of rotation refers to how far P3 tips away from the front of the hoof wall. Resection is a controversial treatment, and given how much and what was cut away, I wonder if instead of rotating, B's P3 was sinking--which means instead of tilting, the entire bone was sinking toward the sole--much worse than rotation. I'm not second guessing the resection decision; but it isn't something that is done as a matter of course. Horses who are resectioned without B's wonderfull support facilities spend a good deal of their recovery time lying down, with all the attendant problems that brings.

I hope that the matrix they've applied to B's hoof will stimulate faster regrowth so he won't be in his sling for all the months and months the new hoof wall would normally take to grow. It "should" be healthy wall if everything else is in order.

I am one of the worry warts who question all the sugary treats he's getting; I fear that, just like a grain overload, it will push him into further bouts of laminitis. When I think that, I give myself a good whack and say, "They KNOW what they're doing!" But I still hope they're checking insulin and glucose on him on a daily basis.

[monstrpony]

"BECAUSE YOU WOULDN'T BE WEARING THAT SILLY HAT WITH YOUR BUSINESS CLOTHES IF YOU WEREN'T THE REAL DEAL!!"


Someone needs to adopt this as their tag line. I would, but the "silly hat" would look totally normal with what passes for "business clothes" in my life!

Great story ...

Tho this line may lose some of its cachet if what they're saying on Off Course about riding helmets becoming a fashion statement is true. I realize we aren't talking about a riding helmet in this case, but the "silly hat" thing does have kind of a double meaning for anyone who rides with a helmet.

Further question about rotation--isn't it true that if good hoof grows back, that the coffin bone support will be returned by virtue of what we consider "good hoof", and hence the rotation can be undone by the return of it's proper support? Since the hoof was resected, *all* support is virtually gone for the time being, and proper angle must be maintained by the "trim", meaning the cast/bandage that he's wearing on that hoof. But if good hoof DOES grow back, the natural, correct support should return, and rotation should not be an issue. No?

[Fancy]

I'm not second guessing the resection decision; but it isn't something that is done as a matter of course.

I agree, but then I don't think that ANYthing that's been done with this colt is "done as a matter of course." Bobby is the most a-typical case of this decade, at least. Can't say about THIS century yet, but surely in the last 100 years, no horse has done what he is trying to do. I guess you could call it his second and third legs of his triple crown. If he gets through all this, he WILL be a winner.

[eggbutt]

I am one of the worry warts who question all the sugary treats he's getting; I fear that, just like a grain overload, it will push him into further bouts of laminitis. When I think that, I give myself a good whack and say, "They KNOW what they're doing!" But I still hope they're checking insulin and glucose on him on a daily basis.

EBO....I'm so glad you admitted your fears......I've been worrying about the same thing and also thought, "They KNOW what they're doing!".....those who have personally dealt with laminitis/founder all probably worry alike! :yes:

[I'm EBO]

MonstrPony, you still need the trims. In a rotated foot, the heel seems to grow faster than the toe because all the weight is shifted toward the toe and causes more weight to bear there. By lowering the heels you not only help the weight to shift back where it belongs, but you gradually stretch the tendon in the back so that the hoof isn't drawn into the "high heel" position that you see on club footed horses, for example. The shoes and rails (little wedgies) that were once standard treatment to protect the tendon are less used these days because they've discovered that gradual stretching of the tendon by trimming isn't as painful as they once thought/assumed. Keeping the horse barefoot during the procedure allows more frequent trims without a lot of fuss, too. (I'd think it wouldn't feel good to have some guy pounding nails on your sore foot, for that matter.) It'll be interesting to learn what route NBC takes with B when it gets to that stage.

If the laminar connection is re-established and remains strong with a good blood supply, the bones will be held in place. He will likely always need frequent trims or resetting, but should do well after the laminae grow back healthy.

Off to light a candle.

[VirginiaBred]

Continued thanks to Alex:

Update 364: New Bolton's press release today: Barbaro continues to improve (http://www.vet.upenn.edu/newsandevents/news/Barbaro_Update8-3.htm):

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro's left hind hoof is slowly showing evidence of regrowth after surgery last month to treat laminitis. Laminitis occurs when laminae, the strong connecting tis sues that attach the pedal bone and the inner hoof wall, are inflamed. "The coronary band (the portion of the hoof that is responsible for continued downward growth of the hoof) is beginning to re-establish itself," said Dean Richardson, Chief of Surgery at the George D. Widener Hospital.
Barbaro's right hind leg continues to be protected in a cast. "The original fractures have apparently healed well, but the cast is necessary to protect the pastern fusion," Dr. Richardson said. "This protection is required because he must bear most of his weight on the right hind limb due to the laminitis in the left hind leg."

Barbaro remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the University of Pennsylvania's George D. Widener Hospital.

The next update will be posted on Tuesday, August 8, unless there is a significant change in Barbaro's condition.

[VirginiaBred]

Did you see that???????

Barbaro Continues to Improve!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yipee!!!!!!!!!

[I'm EBO]

Barbaro's candle count is 977, with the one I just lighted.

[rescuemom]

VB, my huge thanks, as always, for keeping us up to date.:)

With laminitis and rotation, there are instances where some de-rotation occurs although I'm fairly certain this is never a 100% return. Having said that I've seen ponies and horses recover an amazing degree of soundness following a major laminitis episode. Degree of rotation can be an interesting statistic to track but it doesn't necessarily indicate a horse's chances of recovery. And while many horses do require more frequent trims post-founder, even that is not an absolute. My mare foundered two years ago and has returned to normal soundness and a normal farriery schedule.

On the bracelets, is there a concrete link for these or is it still in process? I checked the original link this morning and still got a "website under construction" message, so I wondered if the bracelets were available elsewhere.

Go Barbaro!

[sporthorsefilly]

The candles now at at 1045! Blessings for Barbaro!

Thanks to Tim and VB for the updates each and every day, your the best.

I loved the poems for Barbaro, perhaps we need one for Dr. Richardson and his team. They are working on a miracle.

The Jackson's Barbaro's owners, could also use a nice poem. The stress that they are living with each day, the small rewards of good news, my heart aches for them.

For Michael Matz and his team, they need a poem too.

Sadly I have no skill in that area, so someone with skill in prose, please praise all those who are involved with this wonderful horse: Barbaro

[Susan P]

Blessed Beast, you have served me well,
you've done my bidding.
T'was a sad day when in my service you fell,
helping you is now befitting.

The days pass by while healing bones mend,
trying times pass slowly.
But you are worth the wait my good friend,
and I am now the lowly.

May the God of mercy see fit to touch and heal,
unseen Hand that guided the surgeon.
May He also help me understand what you feel,
so I may ease your burden.

A swiftest steed, you ran as the light,
no longer may that be.
But in pleasant dreams we'll see the flight,
Barbaro's prodegy.

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks again, Alex~

Update 367: For my third interview I wanted to talk to Jose Caraballo, who rode Barbaro in his first two races. I know Jose a little bit, he is one of the leading jockeys at Delaware Park. He also comes over to Fair Hill from time to time to breeze horses. Last winter he spent more time at Fair Hill as his wife was stabled here. I freelanced out of the barn in which they were stabled. He was always very nice and easy going.

I went over to Delaware Park earlier this week for the Mike Rea Relief Fund raffle (good to note Mike is progressing (http://mikerea.blogspot.com/2006/08/we-are-back-and-up-live.html)) hoping to catch up with Jose for this interview. I was then reminded Jose was off for a few days with an injury. Anyway, I acquired his cell phone number and called him today. He was very willing to share his Barbaro story, and here it is:
Jose Caraballo: I had not ridden Barbaro before I rode him in his first start. Peter Brette had done all his work. I did ride his older half brother, Holy Ground, and he was a good horse. I also watched Barbaro work one morning at Fair Hill, I loved the way he worked. Obviously I wanted to ride him.

The first race I rode him he was pretty unbelievable. He did everything right, although he was a little slow away. I knew immediately I had a hell of a horse underneath me. While he was a little green, he never stopped running. He showed he was a nice horse and I was very impressed.
I hoped I would get a chance to ride him back, and I did, in the Laurel Futurity. In 22 years of riding races I have never been on a horse like the one I was on that day. I have ridden over 2,000 winners. That day he went by the other horses like they were ponies. It was as if they were 2yos and Barbaro was a 5yo. He had so much power, he really impressed me that day.
Watching the Kentucky Derby, at Fair Hill with all the other Barbaro fans, I was very happy. I was proud to be a part of the Barbaro team. He was so impressive winning the Derby I felt sure he could win the triple crown. I was honoured to be a part of that history. I could say I rode him, if only twice. I was obviously very sad when I watched the Preakness. It is very hard to describe my initial feelings, but it was kind of like shock. I felt connected in someway to the horse. I only hope now he can recover. He is doing well I know, but it will be a long road ahead. I look forward to seeing him one day, carefree. I continue to ride for Michael, he has been very good to me, you can only wish the best for Barbaro and all those connected to him.

Update 366: Some more lovely poetry (I apologise in advance to poems that I miss):
Wm & CL at August 3, 2006 12:59 PM (below):

Two hundred thousand plus travel page views-
as Tim Woolley Racing keeps spreading good news!
Barbaro's Recovery Road may be long-
with adoring fans keeping Barbaro strong.
Beyond the prayers must our pensmanship speak-
Help make our horse athletes safer every week!
Thousands can make all the difference today-
Sign the petiton while Barbaro munches top hay!
He thanks you with nods, bows, and a wink-
For making his day while all of you think!
What if I had to travel recovery's road too?
How would I make things better for you?
Remember Michael's Miracle as all of us pray-
Keep lighting those candles each night and day!
Whispering Barbaro to heal better than ever!
Reminding Team Barbaro 'Never Say Never.'
Listen, there's whispers 'Don't You Quit!'
Not on our watch while all of us sit!
Watch Miracles happen on Recovery's Road
Let Mike Rea's and Barbaro's stories be told!
Lightens our spirits, we breathe easier now-
while GOOD NEWS spreads like wildfire, WOW!
Raise up your voices and sing us a song-
as Barbaro's & Mike's Recovery Road is long!
Send your GOOD WISHES and special gifts today-
While Barbaro eats special Lael grass and hay!
More than prayer, we now must all think-
Save our horse racing athletes from the brink!
Of broken down horses, we will talk no more-
as it's time for "Bobby" to snooze and snore!
YOU CAN MAKE the greatest difference for him-
Sign that petition Online helps Barbaro win!
A new kind of race so pick up your pace-
Come in and visit and show us your face!
Stop "Oh No's" and "Uh Oh's" before they begin-
Barbaro's campaign travels where noone has been!
Small step for horses, one giant step for men-
Start today with a click of a key instead of when?
Change Recovery's Road name to Better Road soon-
Time is of essence as this day approaches noon!
Takes but a moment, a flashback in time-
Moments keep passing, hearing Barbaro's chime!
Go if you must, but remember these words-
Make Racing Tracks safer for thoroughbred herds!
Todays Hopes are Tomorrow's Can Dos-
Jockeys and Horses need to hear the good news!
America cares, how much will that be?
Putting words into action for citizens to see-
Campaign for Barbaro until we make a difference!
Recovery Road is our Better Road with reverence!
Go to www.petitiononline.com/cares/petition.html (http://www.petitiononline.com/cares/petition.html)

and
From Debbie Jurasus at August 3, 2006 02:48 PM (below)

The Mighty Barbaro
Sired by a strapping spit fire
and a Dam who is as elegant and dainty in opposition,
Your entrance in this world was one of sheer determination and will-
You made your presence be known early on that you are no ordinary colt-
For you are the mighty Barbaro- who is to be cherished, loved and adored!
With Speeds of lighting, others are in awe, to witness such grace and beauty, and to see you be adored.
People flock to be in your presence and feel your aura fill their hearts with joy and excitement.
You have given so much and ask for so little return- for we who love you yearn for more...
So we come to you to give back a little of what you have given- your determination and will to strive and win.
For you are our CHAMPION- no one can contend.
The battle may be long, but we are in it together for the win-
A finish line of green pastures and fields to roam, for all to see your
beauty shining from within...
You are the mighty Barbaro- who is cherished and adored- a true miracle in every sense of the word!

and
From Tamara in Los Angeles at August 3, 2006 05:23 PM (below)

"Special One"
Oh, magnificent creature, brave and strong, you did everything right, yet something went wrong. Running into the wind so fearless that day, catastrophe struck - and took our breath away.
As fear gripped our hearts and the world cried out "WHY?" like the champion you are, you held your head high. The weeks that ensued brought elation and pain, yet we all know your plight has not been in vain.
You've inspired your caretakers to give all they can give, because you've made it quite clear you have a strong will to live! You've touched so many lives and you don't even know, please continue to heal; we love you, Barbaro!
May angels surround you, bringing comfort and peace, until God takes you home in years, months or weeks ... where in heaven you'll run free with no pain, that I know. Yes, our Lord loves you MOST, Special One, Barbaro.

This is a good time to remind us of all the good content on the fan media page (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/05/barbaro_multime.php). It seems that early on in this "journey" fan creativity was focused on imagery / video etc. and now the focus has shifted to words.

Finally, lets not forget we have a vigil planned for saturday, 7 pm (east coast time). Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, spare some time for Barbaro.

While things are going well, we cannot lose focus, he has a long road ahead we hope.
Update 365: Sabina Louise Pierce spent last saturday at Fair Hill taking some pictures. She has included a few of these shots in her horses gallery (http://www.sabinalouisepierce.com/horses.htm). Very nice. This comment was left in updates 32 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/08/barbaro_updates_27.php) 10:10 PM about the Barbaro Fund:

Well, to my biggest surprise yesterday, when I picked up my mail, there was an envelope addressed to me with a return address of: Penn Veterinary Medicine - The Barbaro Fund. I hurriedly opened it up to find a "Thank You" card. The front of the card has that great great photo of Bobby winning the Derby with Edgar up blazing across the finish line with his mane, tail flying in the wind; this is the photo taken by Bill Franken/Sports Illustrated.
When I opened the card I read the following:
Thank you for your generous contribution to the Barbaro Fund. This fund has been designed to support the George D. Widener Hospital at New Bolton Center and will be used for treating animals like Barbaro and countless others in their time of need.
I was soooooooooooo deelighted to receive this that I immediately ran out to buy a frame for this 5x7 gorgeous photo. And so I did! A lovely all wooden frame the color of Bobby ... that deep rich chestnut.
When I got home, I wanted to keep the original intact so I made an exact 'copy' of the front of the card with my own printer/copier/scanner and it came out Purrrrr-fect! I framed it and hung it on my wall right next to another 8x10 of Bobby I had printed out a couple of weeks ago and framed, and Bobby is 'hanging' right next to all my beautiful framed photos of "Big Red". So I was then able to take the original card and put it back in its envelope and tuck it away in a file folder labeled "Barbaro."

The following article attributes Bobby's influence to canceling racing yesterday: Canceling card was right move at Saratoga (http://www.newsday.com/sports/horseracing/ny-spspa03,0,2851499.column?track=rss), the article concludes:

In the post-Barbaro era, the humans who make decisions that affect the lives of horses are beginning to consider the interests of preserving the animal or at least, whenever possible, reducing risk.
There is no Eclipse Award for this, but perhaps there should be.

For my next interview, I am going to try to interview Bobby's first jockey, Jose Caraballo.

[VirginiaBred]

I guess I am a little surprised.
When Barbaro improves, this site really has no new comments. That makes me really sad. :(

Come on, Team Barbaro....................we need to pull together MORE when he is mending!!!


:confused:

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks to Alex~

Update 368: Just spoke to Peter Brette. He was waiting to hear from Michael Matz, who is visiting Barbaro later this evening, once he is out of the sling. At the time of my call with Peter, Peter assumed all was well (8pm). The following is a nice article which is basically an interview with Peter: Barbaro's Rider Reminisces, Keeps The Faith (http://www.dailylocal.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=17009043&BRD=1671&PAG=461&dept_id=17782&rfi=6). The following is the beginning of the article:

"He was a bigger, stronger, better athlete than any horse I ever sat on before," said Brette, who resides in New London. "He was so well balanced. He was very intelligent. You would show him things once and he had it down.
"I remember a training session early this year in Florida when another horse came by him, and he just took off. It was like driving a Porsche. You put your foot down, and he bumps you right up. That was the sensation. I said something like, "Good God, he's getting stronger and stronger."
Brette says it was the Florida Derby where Barbaro evolved from a boy to a man.

[Bugs-n-Frodo]

VB, I check this thread as often as I can, usually atleast once a day, but I check it from work so I can't always post. I want you to know that I am still pulling for him, I still look for ther latest news. As soon as I can get back online at home, I will post more often. I am still JINGLING for our boy and thrilled with his progress!

[gubbyz]

Hi Rescuemom, I went ahead and ordered my own bracelets, they are baby blue and say: Beleive in Barbaro. I should be getting them by Aug. 5th. If you like, I would be happy to send you one. Just give me your info in a PM.

[BBowen]

Although I can't be at the vigil in person, I will be there in spirit. Sending more prayers and jingles for Bobby's continued improvement. What lovely poems have been written in celebration of this remarkable horse. VirginiaBred, thanks for your continued updates and thanks to all of the Barbaro team for their input.

[Susan P]

I wrote a poem, guess it was too dumb, huh or corny? Sorry. :o Well I tried. I'm still reading the thread and I think there's only so much we can say. We want him better, keep praying. I would like to thank God for the healing and improvements day by day.



I guess I am a little surprised.
When Barbaro improves, this site really has no new comments. That makes me really sad. :(

Come on, Team Barbaro....................we need to pull together MORE when he is mending!!!


:confused:

[Susan P]

Ok, I just lit a couple more candles, still pulling for you Bobby. I feel so funny calling him Bobby like he's my own horse, VB, you've brought him into our homes/barns.

[Fancy]

It's late, but I'm off to light some candles in thanksgiving. "Improving!" Sweet music to my ears!!!!

Thank you for all your hard work, VB.

Bobby--yes, I'm beginning to feel like I need to set out an extra food bucket for him. He's a member of the family, now.

:D :D :D :D

[VirginiaBred]

Thank you Tim & Alex:

Update 369: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (thursday night). Jost spoke to Michael Matz on the horsepath.
As I was driving into Fair Hill this morning I caught up with Kathy Anderson. She visited Bobby late last night (9pm) as she wanted to see him out of the sling. She was happy with what she saw and described Bobby as being quite active, moving around his stall.
update 7 am, friday morning

[Spoilsport]

Susan P - I thought your poem was beautiful :) :) ! It came closest to describing how I feel. Thank you :) :) :) . Just one thing, is the last word supposed to be "progeny"? Edited to add: Or "prodigy"?

VB - I don't know if it's the power of "VB" or the power of Tim & Alex or just Barbaro, but there are now 1249 candles lit :D . I'll go light mine now.

[Fancy]

:yes: Thank you, VB. I need to hear the same thing over and over for the next six months: "Another comfortable night." Thanks be to the Horse Gods!

[VirginiaBred]

Susan, I loved your poem, by the way!

[VirginiaBred]

Susan P - I thought your poem was beautiful :) :) ! It came closest to describing how I feel. Thank you :) :) :) . Just one thing, is the last word supposed to be "progeny"?

VB - I don't know if it's the power of "VB" or the power of Tim & Alex or just Barbaro, but there are now 1249 candles lit :D . I'll go light mine now.




:eek: Awesome!!!!!!!!!!! 1249 Candles!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

[sporthorsefilly]

Great news that Bobby continues to heal. I will be there Saturday at 7 to support Barbaro!

The news that the right leg has healed so well is just incredible, and the left hind is growing well, I guess our prayers are reaching the right places.

Go Barbaro, you are the Champ!

Thanks again VB. Let's light another candle each day.

[sporthorsefilly]

1249 candles!

[eggbutt]

Candles lit for the day for so many on Bobby's team (including us!!!:yes: )! I would love to drive to ya'l from NC for tomorrow's vigil, but alas with gas prices and time what it is, I will be there in spirit and will be positively joining spiritual forces with everyone else.

I can't wait for the report that he was able to go outside and smell the fresh air and walk a few steps on the grass!

I also now believe he is "my" horse - if only in my dreams. His spirit and courage drives me each day to live my life by his example....keep on keepin on and make the best of my situation with dignity and grace. I am so thankful that money has not been an issue in Bobby's care. Too many of us would have had to throw in the towel long ago.

Thank you VB for all the wonderful updates and time you've given to keep us posted on all events Barbaro!

[SAS]

Just lit my morning candle for Barbaro. Regardless of his condition, I still check this thread first thing every morning to see how our boy is doing. I am so happy that his condition seems to be improving. I know he has a long way to go but he is such a fighter.

VB -thanks as always for the updates!!!!!!!!!!

[RodeoQueen]

Another candle lit for Barbaro, his family, trainers and caretakers. I check this thread daily as all of us at our farm continue to keep this magnificant horse in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you, VB, for your continued updates. Love the poems and good news that he continues to be a fighter and a healer. He reminds me daily that Miracles are everywhere.

[Susan P]

I had to rethink that, so I found the definition, I think progeny is right, look what Webster's says.


Main Entry: prog·e·ny
Function: noun
Pronunciation: 'prä-j & n-e</I>
Inflected Form(s): plural -nies
Etymology: Middle English </I>progenie, from Middle French, from Latin </I>progenies, from </I>progignere
1 a : DESCENDANTS (http://javascript<b></b>:lookWord('descendants');), CHILDREN (http://javascript<b></b>:lookWord('children');)</I></I>b : offspring of animals or plants</I> </I>
2 : OUTCOME (http://javascript<b></b>:lookWord('outcome');), PRODUCT (http://javascript<b></b>:lookWord('product');)</I></I>
3 : a body of followers, disciples, or successors

I meant it as offspring, but successors could work too. Prodigy would mean any talented youth so I just want to hope for Bobby's babies. :winkgrin:

Either way, I'm glad you liked the poem, it came from my heart.

Thanks VB, I'm glad you did like it. It's kind of embarrassing to write something and I'm self conscious, don't like sounding stupid. I do that so easily.



Susan P - I thought your poem was beautiful :) :) ! It came closest to describing how I feel. Thank you :) :) :) . Just one thing, is the last word supposed to be "progeny"? Edited to add: Or "prodigy"?

VB - I don't know if it's the power of "VB" or the power of Tim & Alex or just Barbaro, but there are now 1249 candles lit :D . I'll go light mine now.

[captain]

candles lit daily, friends lined up, hats on, curb chains jingling on, good to go up here in Mass. for saturday night!
a continued huge thanks to you, VB, for your diligence, i check in here every day, and would be lost without your reports.

all the poetry is so touching and well- written...... wish i could write like that.

[Teatime]

Just a quick question. Who is doing the work on Bobby? I'm sure there's been a flood of experts offering their hoof care services and advice.

Just wondering.
T

[Susan P]

I know of at least one excellent farrier at New Bolton. I'm sure she is amazing.


Just a quick question. Who is doing the work on Bobby? I'm sure there's been a flood of experts offering their hoof care services and advice.

Just wondering.
T

[excowgirlie]

I am glad to hear Bobby is still holding on stong! I was excited to get my bumper sticker yesterday that says I "heart" barbaro! I am sure there a hundreds of people that will look at that on the back of my suv and say "WHO?" But it makes me feel proud to be part of "team barbaro".. Appreciating the updates as usual, vb, thanks!

[I'm EBO]

I check here first thing every morning, and several times a day, as well. I rarely post because I don't have all that much to say, but I do tell my own horses how he's doing.

There's so much good coming out of all of this--or I should say so much good coming out of his response to his misfortune. His grace under pressure is affecting people all over the country in their treatment of horses. The story about Saratoga's closing for the day (too hot) was great news. The story of the number of breakdowns at Del Mar is horrid, but is getting a LOT of attention which will surely lead to a better track and general set up there. Since I am an anti-slaughter person (I can hear the groans from here), I hope that his courage will soften the hard hearts in DC who think it's okay to squeeze every last penny out of horses' bodies, no matter what suffering it causes the horses.

I hope that every horse, regardless of its station in life, is being looked upon with a fresh eye from its caretaker; a sort of "Wow, you horses are amazing creatures, and deserve the best I can do for you!"

Off to light another candle and then out to feed the herd.

[LouLove]

Hi VB - this is my resource for Barbaro and I check everyday. I have asked my horse several times to get her horsepeople on his side. Seems it has worked so far! I always think of you at least twice a day B! Hoping one day to view you in person from your pasture!!!

[VirginiaBred]

I am glad to hear Bobby is still holding on stong! I was excited to get my bumper sticker yesterday that says I "heart" barbaro! I am sure there a hundreds of people that will look at that on the back of my suv and say "WHO?" But it makes me feel proud to be part of "team barbaro".. Appreciating the updates as usual, vb, thanks!

I sure would like one of those! Where did you locate that?

[VirginiaBred]

Just in from Alex:

Update 370: For those who want to relive Barbaro's Kentucky Derby, you can via the Herald Leader: Barbaro Breezes (http://www.heraldleaderphoto.com/derby/2006/slideshows/slideshow09/). Mike C just visited Monmouth this morning and had this to say (1:50 pm):

I just got back from morning works at Monmouth Park,I go there in the morning once in a while,nice and peaceful, they allow the public to take a tour of the barns,,,watch horses work from the gate and a tour of the jocks room there,(fri and sat for the tours),,even though I'm there every day I still like the morning activity there..LOTS of people there asking about BARBARO... thats good....I turned them all on to this site,,..they were glad to know there is a place to get updates on our boy

Which reminds me, those wanting to visit Fair Hill are more than welcome. I think we have a group coming next saturday, which should be fun for a couple of hours.

[majicsmom]

I finally had to join this forum because of this thread. I join many others in thanking VB for the updates as I too come here every day to check. I've been lighting candles regularly for the *Big Guy*. You can be sure that come Saturday at 7, the vigil will be going on here as my beloved Arabians continue to send all their courage and heart to Bobby. Yes, I'm another one of those awful Ayyyyrab people :eek: !! However, I hope to be permitted to become a member of TEAM BARBARO as he has won a big place in my heart.

[Fancy]

I am glad to hear Bobby is still holding on stong! I was excited to get my bumper sticker yesterday that says I "heart" barbaro! I am sure there a hundreds of people that will look at that on the back of my suv and say "WHO?" But it makes me feel proud to be part of "team barbaro".. Appreciating the updates as usual, vb, thanks!


I sure would like one of those! Where did you locate that?

Oh yeah! I think we ALL want to know the answer to that question. Quick, woman, tell us WHERE TO SEND $$$$$!
:D :lol: :D :lol: :D :lol: :D

[VirginiaBred]

However, I hope to be permitted to become a member of TEAM BARBARO as he has won a big place in my heart.

You already are a team member! Welcome to the BB, too! :yes:

[eggbutt]

Yes, I'm another one of those awful Ayyyyrab people :eek: !! However, I hope to be permitted to become a member of TEAM BARBARO as he has won a big place in my heart.

Welcome majicsmom! We do not discriminate on breed of horses owned, ridden, bred or dreamed about on this thread! We are united as one for Bobby because as VB said, we are ALL TEAM BARBARO!!

[sporthorsefilly]

From the Baltimore Sun article:

"Gretchen Jackson said yesterday at a news conference in Pennsylvania, where Barbaro is being cared for. "It's not about money, it's not about limelight, it's more about the horse and the beauty of it and the integrity of it on a lot of levels."

She has my vote for owner of the year!

No it isn't about the money...it is about the horse.

Great Lady!!!

[VirginiaBred]

"Gretchen Jackson said yesterday at a news conference in Pennsylvania, where Barbaro is being cared for. "It's not about money, it's not about limelight, it's more about the horse and the beauty of it and the integrity of it on a lot of levels."

She has my vote for owner of the year! No it isn't about the money...it is about the horse.

Can I have an Amen???

[eggbutt]

AMEN and HALLELUJAH SWEET JESUS!!!

[Fancy]

AMEN and HALLELUJAH SWEET JESUS!!!

WHAT SHE SAID!!!!!!!

[msj]

Ditto Eggbutt with the AMEN and HALLELUJAH!! :)

Boy, I wasn't able to get in this AM right off. :( The forums opened but the various threads wouldn't! :( But once in later on, I was able to go and light a couple of candles for Barbaro. I do that every time I come to this thread, which is about 4-6 times/day! :) Sometimes just 2 candles, and sometimes a candle from each of my 4-legged critters and myself.

With the hot weather lately in the NE, I've actually caught up on both COTH and UDBB. It was too hot to do anything but feed the horses and hose them down. :) I know they liked the cold water. Even my little Dennis the Menace QH by the name of Chocolate stood stock still for his shower. :D :D

Anyway, I'm glad Barbaro has a wonderfully air conditioned stall to be in. I told my 2 horses and they were green with envy! LOL

Here's pulling for several more months of good updates from NBC about our boy! I really and truly feel Barbaro doesn't just belong in name to the Jacksons, but they are kind enough to share him with all his faithful followers! :)

[Davignport]

Just lit my candles for Bobby. Will be thinking of him tomorrow at 7:00 and lighting more candles. Continued thanks to VB for everything. Every day along is one day closer to getting well. God Bless the team at NBC. God is watching and I think he likes what he sees...

[lizathenag]

every day I google Barbaro. . .
http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200608/s1705477.htm

[Chester's Mom]

http://www.cafepress.com/barbaro.57026702

http://www.cafepress.com/barbaro

[Duffy]

Hey, VB - just wanted to thank you again for your wonderful updates! Lit another candle. I'll be hanging out with lauriep on Saturday evening and will be thinking about Bobby!

[Fancy]

every day I google Barbaro. . .
http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200608/s1705477.htm

:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

How'd he get out of NBC? I bet Vinnie the Hoof was in on this heist!

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Susan P]

Would that be August 12th or tomorrow the 5th?

Don't forget you are welcome to use my farm for whatever, park few cars and car pool, just 6 minutes to the FH.



Just in from Alex:

Update 370: For those who want to relive Barbaro's Kentucky Derby, you can via the Herald Leader: Barbaro Breezes (http://www.heraldleaderphoto.com/derby/2006/slideshows/slideshow09/). Mike C just visited Monmouth this morning and had this to say (1:50 pm):

I just got back from morning works at Monmouth Park,I go there in the morning once in a while,nice and peaceful, they allow the public to take a tour of the barns,,,watch horses work from the gate and a tour of the jocks room there,(fri and sat for the tours),,even though I'm there every day I still like the morning activity there..LOTS of people there asking about BARBARO... thats good....I turned them all on to this site,,..they were glad to know there is a place to get updates on our boy

Which reminds me, those wanting to visit Fair Hill are more than welcome. I think we have a group coming next saturday, which should be fun for a couple of hours.

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks to Alex~

Update 372: A couple of articles that I have been meaning to post. The first, from UCDavis, discusses Bobby's sling: UC Davis Discoveries Supporting Barbaro (http://www.news.ucdavis.edu/search/news_detail.lasso?id=7832). It is always nice to read the source of the innovations we see at work. The second article is old, I think I have not posted before, however its a good one on Dr. Richardson: The Man Whose Job Is Saving Barbaro (http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/news/14683315.htm). Its written by my favourite newspaper writer (Mike Jensen) and is just very interesting. No excerpt, its best just to read it in its entirety.
The following is an excerpt from a comment, left by Marky (6:20 pm):

The teachers show us where to find hope
The warriors fight slaughter
The poets inspire with their prose
The healers pray and meditate
The clowns create joy
Such is the Barbaro effect. When 2 or more gather with the same goal, the power is overwhelming. Let's allow all to do what they can. Take what you can from this site and use it towards that glorious champ who has been able to change his whole life even his personality to survive.
I am Thankful for everyone here who fights for Bobby.

Update 371: Some random pieces for this update. I e-mailed Jeannine Edwards about possible ESPN racing coverage this weekend, it looks like they are covering racing saturday and sunday, this was her e-mail response:

yes, we are doing the obligatory "barbaro update". just a mention in the news segment like we have been doing the last few weeks. it will come 22 minutes into the show. we have the whitney and test on sat.... great showdown between flower alley and invasor, 2 of the best older horses in the country right now. on sunday we do the haskell, matchmaker, and WV derby. the haskell has bluegrass cat and strong contender, among others. graham motion has framboise in the matchmaker..... another tough motion filly on the turf??? we shall see. :)

The following are from the comments posted today, some more great content!
Mary Evans (3:07 pm)

BOBBY'S SONG
Tune: The Red, Red Robin
When our big brave Bobby comes
Clippity-clip-clopping along, along
There'll be great rejoicing
We'll all be voicing a hap-py song
So chin up, chin up, you thoroughbred!
You're always out ahead--
You're strong, the doctor said-- Live long, run and be happy!
That is our prayer for you-
We'll all be there with you
Singing our song
When our brave, sweet Bobby comes
Clippity-clip-clopping along, along
When our sweet brave Bobby comes
Clippity-clip-clopping along

Toby (3:21 pm):

(singing a little off key)
Eat your carrots every day,
Stay in the sling and play play play,
Grow hoof grow, heal leg heal.
That's become our daily appeal!
A little nip here, a little nip there,
Show everyone how much you care.
Keep on doing like you are,
You're our little shining star!!
MWAH Barbaro!..See ya later

Faleecia Taylor (4:23 pm):

To look into the eyes of a HORSE is to look into the soul of all that is kind, patient, selfless and good. To see Barbaro is to see this in a magnificent form. He has reminded so many of us of the things that most of us so often forget. As majestic as he stood on the race track his strength and will to overcome his current odds are far more soul reaching. The spirit that guides us through the hardest of days has many angels. Barbaro, in this most difficult of times has surely brought so much to so many. As we look to Barbaro and his state of wellness daily one can't help but think of all horses throughout our great nation and the horror of some of their plight.
As the owner of 15 horses of my own. All of which will live and die with me I can't help but cry for those that are lost to unspeakable ends. Maybe Barbaro is reprensentation of not just a great racing champion but a champion of all that he represents. Maybe part of his legacy will be in how well he represented all horses everywhere in a manner that has reached out to the souls of the world. May he ride on the wings of angels until he can once again ride on his own.

Gloria (5:18 pm):

A Hero of a Different Color
(Inspired by the posted words of Kathy - 8 years old
"Barbaro, I know you didn't mean to be a hero, but you are.")
Innocence, youth, such talent and heart,
You were still growing up, and doing your part
To run for the roses and prizes more rare,
To abandon yourself to the thrill of each dare.
You bestowed upon Peter the rides of his life,
And your trainer and owners, their dreams brought to life.
You romped and we witnessed your own special gifts,
But the depth of your soul had yet to be glimpsed.
Living your life, so playful yet poised,
Finding the best, in yourself...and in us,
Once again victory lay in your path,
When almost at random, life changed in a flash.
But then, like the champion we knew you to be,
You held yourself calm, with sweet dignity,
And though you were hurting, you sensed and obeyed
A voice from within that said "Trust them...this way."
You managed to triumph when no one could say
For certain that you would stay with us that day.
Your spirit adapted, your heart said "Don't quit",
And now you are learning each day bit by bit.
Do horses have humor? I think we could say
That you certainly do, or it sure looks that way.
Intelligence shows as you patiently fight,
And your "wicked bright" mind will help make it all right.
As passionate, competent people help guide,
You will find your way home, with love by your side.
Yes, the way may be long, and the going is slow,
But your spirit prevails, and that we all know.
Your legacy now will be different than planned,
Your journey will lead more of us to a stand.
Your destiny met with your head held up high,
Your shining example no one can deny.
Your purpose now changed, or at least it so seems,
From running and chasing a Triple Crown dream,
To entering now a new race we can share,
With nobility, decency, courage and care.
No effort too small, no vision too large,
Renewed interest and focus, we each can "take charge."
Emboldened to take just one step at a time,
These steps all together can help change mankind.
May we learn from your journey what we need to know,
And then pass it on, to inspire and grow.
To help others in need, both your kind and ours,
To be champions - like you - as we fight for a cause.
Unaware of your influence, blissfully free,
And living your life with such clear purity,
You "didn't mean to be" a hero, we know it is true,
But Barbaro, you are. And for that we thank you.

WOW!

[VirginiaBred]

UC Davis Discoveries Supporting Barbaro

August 2, 2006
www.ucdavis.edu



As Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro fights to recover from life-threatening complications of an injury suffered during the May 20 Preakness Stakes, equipment developed at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine is being put to work to help save the famous colt.
The ambulance and splint used to transport and stabilize Barbaro after his right rear leg broke in three places were developed by Gregory Ferraro, now director of the UC Davis Center for Equine Health within the School of Veterinary Medicine. Both the ambulance and splint, manufactured by Kimzey Welding Works Inc. in Woodland, Calif., grew out of the company's work in the 1970s and 1980s with Ferraro, who was then a racetrack veterinarian and president of the Southern California Equine Foundation.
The ambulance features a hydraulic system that lowers the door to the ground and a winch that can pull a stretcher and horse safely into the ambulance, as well as a movable wall that can gently squeeze a standing horse to support it during transport to a veterinary hospital.
When Barbaro's condition worsened, they turned to using a novel sling developed at UC Davis called the Anderson sling. This unique lifting device allows a horse to be supported, with the weight taken off the legs, and to sleep standing up. It was developed at UC Davis by John Madigan, an expert in emergency equine veterinary medicine at UC Davis in conjunction with welder Charles Anderson and Rich Morgan. The sling was designed for use to lift weak and injured horses and has found its way into veterinary clinics around the world. The system uses a rectangular metal frame, hoisted above the horse, with a unique support that comfortably lifts the horse by the skeletal system. It is now also commonly used to support horses following surgery or an injury, and to airlift injured horses via helicopter from remote locations.
"The sling has saved many horses that could not rise on their own or needed to be comfortably supported in the upright position while they recovered from an injury," Madigan said, noting that more than 100 modifications were made to the sling during its eight years of development at UC Davis. "It's gratifying to know that Barbaro is resting comfortably in our sling and can rest his injured leg."
"We hope that this type of work continues," Ferraro said. "We are still far from solving all of the problems associated with equine performance injuries."

[ivy62]

I would like to offer my daily thanks to VB for all the updates. You have brought Barbaro into our personal lives. He gives me hope and faith that miracles do happen and that not every race horse owner is all about business.... Do the Jacksons have any idea how many people are pulling for their horse? I always try and check the site at least once a day but if at work I cannot post just read.... So we are still JINGLING and lighting candles in NY. I will be there in spirit at the vigil on Sat......
Thanks again

[VirginiaBred]

Thank you Alex and of course, Tim~

Update 373: I spoke to Peter Brette late this afternoon, while he did not have an update, he assumed all was well. Michael Matz is now visiting Barbaro later in the evenings in order to see him out of the sling (too late for me to get updates from the visit anyway). Peter is planning to visit Bobby tomorrow, I am going to go to NBC with him (hopefully), although I will not actually visit Barbaro. I just want to see how everything looks in the reception area etc., as well as of course talk to Peter directly after his visit to get some insights etc.

[Fancy]

:) :) :) :)

So, we assume that no news is good news. That's good news!

Jingles for the Big Horse!

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Alex~

Update 374: As we wait for an update this morning I thought I would post a couple of things. First, a Barbaro video: Barbaro Splish Splash (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMe7PxE9VYM) (nice and light). Melissa H. has created a Barbaro site that includes all the poems etc. that have been included in the updates here: For The Love Of Barbaro (http://webpages.charter.net/javaellybob/index.html). (These will also be included on the fan media page (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/05/barbaro_multime.php).)
Mike is continuing his progress: Mike's top groom, Angel will be coming with Rochelle and the children. He hasn't seen him since the accident. (http://mikerea.blogspot.com/2006/08/in-fayetteville-nc-for-weekend.html)


A quick reminder, tonight, 7 PM east coast time, we will have a Barbaro vigil. Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, spare some time for Barbaro.

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Tim/Alex:

Update 375: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (friday night). I saw Michael as I was going to the track on a nice Holy Bull 2yo.

The weather is gorgeous here this morning!
update, saturday, august 5. 8:05 am

[VirginiaBred]

Update 376: A nice winner for the Jackson's yesterday at Saratoga (Stormy Kiss by a neck in tenacious effort (http://drf.com/news/article/77197.html)), following up their Goodwood winner earlier this week, and continued upbeat reports from New Bolton, it seems a positive week.
A nice song to keep the mood light (Ernie: Update 35 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/08/barbaro_updates_30.php): 10:45 pm):

Oh! Bobby J. (Sung to the melody of Camptown Races)
Barbaromaniacs sing this song
Doo-dah! Doo-dah!
Churchill Downs is one mile long
Oh! de doo-dah day!
Chorus:
He's gonna sleep all night
He's gonna sling all day
Gonna bet my money on Bobby J.
He's our gorgeous bay
I go up on the Woolley site
Doo-dah! doo-dah!
I lurk all day then I post at night
Oh! de doo-dah day!
Chorus
Lots of people love this horse
Doo-dah! Doo-dah!
Let's all pray and stay the course
Oh! de doo-dah day!
Chorus
Now Dr. R is one fine doc
Doo-dah! doo-dah!
He fixed Bobby's leg from hoof to hock
Oh! de doo-dah day!
Chorus
We love his trainer Michael Matz
Doo-dah! Doo-dah!
He comes at night to give him pats
Oh! de doo-dah day!
Chorus
Now there's his jockey Awesome Ed
Doo-dah! doo-dah!
He stroked our Bobby 'til he went to bed
Oh! de doo-dah day!
Chorus
And don't forget his old friend Pete
Doo-dah! Doo-dah!
Every morning was so sweet
Oh! de doo-dah day!

Chorus
The Jacksons love him, that's for sure
Doo-dah! doo-dah!
They'll do alot and then some more
Oh! de doo-dah day!
Chorus
And thank you Alex for all you've done
Doo-dah! doo-dah!
We'll stick with you 'til this race is won
Oh! de doo-dah day!
Chorus

[*jumper*]

Once again, VB, thanks soo much for all the updates!!:yes:

Well, tomorrow I'm leaving for Ireland, and I'm going to be very Barbaro deprived and lonely without this thread.:sadsmile: (I'll have lots of catching up to do when I get back :winkgrin: ) I don't know whether I'll have internet access anywhere, but if I do you can be sure I'll checking up on Bobby!!

Best wishes to Barbaro--keep on healing and have fun in that sling!!:D

[Susan P]

Have a great trip and I would like to second that appreciation. :yes:

Keep healing Barbaro! :D



Once again, VB, thanks soo much for all the updates!!:yes:

Well, tomorrow I'm leaving for Ireland, and I'm going to be very Barbaro deprived and lonely without this thread.:sadsmile: (I'll have lots of catching up to do when I get back :winkgrin: ) I don't know whether I'll have internet access anywhere, but if I do you can be sure I'll checking up on Bobby!!

Best wishes to Barbaro--keep on healing and have fun in that sling!!:D

[VirginiaBred]

From Alex~



Update 377: I went with Peter Brette to New Bolton around lunchtime. Peter visited Barbaro, I hung out and took pictures of the lobby area and entrance. Barbaro remains comfortable, I will post more on the visit and a few additional insights I picked up with my conversations with Peter later.
Gator Nation (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/horses/#Gator%20Nation) was a first time starter for Tim today in Philadelphia Park. He was a little fractious in the paddock (I think Amanda is a little worse for wear for the experience) before the race. He ran a very good race, closing very strongly to finish third, only beaten a head I think for second. This was the first race for new owners of Tim's, so I think everyone is very happy. I have ridden Gator Nation only 2 - 3 times, but I have breezed with him several times, while being on other horses. It has been fun watching him progress in his work outs. For the most part he has always worked well, so it is good to see him reproducing that in his first start. Tim said he ran a winning kind of race, he was just a little green.

[VirginiaBred]

TEAM BARBARO!!!!!!!!!!!!

Don't forget the vigil tonight at 7pm, where ever you are.

Light your candles, say a prayer, have a quiet moment, be with your horses; just remember Barbaro and let's continue willing him to health.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

[Fancy]

Barbaromaniacs sing this song
Doo-dah! Doo-dah!
Churchill Downs is one mile long
Oh! de doo-dah day!

Love it! Gotta add more verses--LOTS more verses!!!!

Doo-dah! Doo-dah! Doo-dah!

[98neigh]

VB I must add my thanks to you for keeping us all updated. I light a candle every 48 hours. thanks again. steph

[msj]

Fancy, I like your song so far! Really cute.

Loved the Splish Splash Barbaro video, but then I'm old enough to remember when that song FIRST came out! :eek:

Thanks again VB for the great updates, etc. :) :) :D

Off to light a couple more Barbaro candles and then off to get dinner ready for my equine vet and her SO. I've got a candleabrea already for the vigil tonight.
:)

[2Dogs]

I have been silently lurking and just awed by all of you - VB in particular! I now have to post to tell you all I have sent my 84 year old mom, who can't read very well due to macular degeneration, several posts that I thought were over the top fabulous. She lives in Middleburg and with the help of major magnification, she is now reading the posts to her other near blind buddies - all over 80 - who live near her. So there are many many more people than you know following our COTH Barbaro story!

thank you all!

[excowgirlie]

yes, I got my bumper sticker at cafe press...not sure where the proceeds go, but it was only 4.99 and it came fast....it is very cute~

[Susan P]

So cool, just print it out in very large print like I do with driving directions.
My Mom just turned 84 in July.


I have been silently lurking and just awed by all of you - VB in particular! I now have to post to tell you all I have sent my 84 year old mom, who can't read very well due to macular degeneration, several posts that I thought were over the top fabulous. She lives in Middleburg and with the help of major magnification, she is now reading the posts to her other near blind buddies - all over 80 - who live near her. So there are many many more people than you know following our COTH Barbaro story!

thank you all!

[VirginiaBred]

Continued thanks to Tim/Alex:

Update 378: Barbaro vigil: 7 pm (eastern) tonight. Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, have some thoughts for Barbaro.

Peter told me today about a time he was breezing Bobby before his first start. He was to breeze Bobby in company with a four year old filly, on the wood chip track. The four year old was a group winner in South America. Peter decided to spot her two lengths. Bobby breezed by her and opened up ten lengths. Peter wanted to push Bobby a little as he had done everything so easily before (on the bridle). This was his last breeze I think before his maiden win under Jose Caraballo.
A two year old I have been galloping for Paul Rowland ran a nice third today at Monmouth: Big Daddy Wolf.

[VirginiaBred]

Barbaro vigil: 7 pm (eastern) tonight. Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, have some thoughts for Barbaro.

[Sonesta]

Lighting the candles now and beginning the jingles here in Houston.

[Laurel&HollyFarm]

Went ahead and lit my candles around the great Barbara Livingston photos of Barbaro on my bar. Keep going Bobby!!

[ASB Stars]

You know, if each of us lit our candle, and then sent out an email to, say, ten friends, to light another for our beloved Bobby boy, how many do you guys think we could get lit, and keep going?

I say we can set a blaze!

Wanna try? ;)

[Wanderluster]

Just lit mine. Go Barbaro !

[VirginiaBred]

Absolutely light as many as possible!
I always do!!!

[VirginiaBred]

1,804 Candles for Barbaro.

[Susan P]

Just lit a few more candles for Bobby and of course had one lit in my house at 7 PM, well I was a few minutes late, sorry.

[War Admiral]

I didn't dare come online to light an online candle b/c we were in the midst of a lashing t-storm but I lit a real one. Go Bobby go!

[VirginiaBred]

From Alex~

Update 381: From time to time I will get snippets of information from Saratoga (from friends up there) that I will post. Some of it will likely relate directly to Bobby, some perhaps not some much, but general racing interest. A friend of mine visited with Bernadini yesterday, and in light of our interview with Tom Albertrani (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/07/barbaro_updates_23.php#update348), I wanted to share the content:

I just had a good look at Bernardini in his stall this afternoon and a talk with Dave Wallace, the assistant trainer who is an old pal of mine. He said that they are thankful for Barbaro's continuous popularity and recovery, as it is allowing Bernardini a lot more peace from the press. Of course the usual racing publications want to see him, but the mainstream newspapers are not overly interested. He is a very cool horse, medium sized with a nice disposition. Dave says that when he comes out of the stall he seems to grow, the way most good horses do when their blood is slightly up. (Dave was assistant/exercise rider for Mott for the past 18 years, galloped Cigar, etc.)

Update 380: Yesterday during my visit to New Bolton I met the Thomas family. They were from Tampa, FL, in the area for a family reunion, but I think that was their excuse to come and offer their wishes for Barbaro. They placed a couple of nice pictures for Barbaro on the main entrance. I of course took some pictures (there is a nice poster from the Barbaromaniacs!) which will take a few days to get posted on the site. I also took some pictures of the lobby area. The Churchill Downs cards (I think there are six) are still there, there is one from Pimlico, as well as other cards from tracks and individuals / groups of people. I don't think Peter had seen these before (he does not need to visit the lobby area to visit Barbaro) and was pretty moved when I returned with him to show him. The outpouring is very impressive.
A few pieces of content from the comments from Updates 37 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/08/barbaro_updates_32.php) (sorry if I missed something):
Julia B. 9:26 pm:

Hello again - I just wanted to add this little tid bit ...
Today I went to copy the picture I drew of Barbaro, I got cardstock to print on and made the copies - I took them up to the register to pay for them and the cashier looked at them and said -"no charge!" I replied. "but I have about 20 copies on cardstock... & he said, "I know !" How sweet and kind of him , I told him more about Barbaro and gave him a copy with a big THANKS written across the bottom !!
Barbaro brings out the best in us ! He represents grace and love. His aura captivates our inner beings, our hearts , our soul ! He transend the worlds problems and is a beacon of light a shinning star , a ray of hope!

Sharri, 12:45 am:

Into our lives has come, a special creature who has captured our hearts and souls.
Barbaro is his name.
Into our lives has come a hero who has raced against adversity and has shown us all how to win.
Barbaro is his name.
Into our lives has come an example of what is good and loving and who expects nothing in return except caring and kindness.
Barbaro is his name.
Into our lives has come a beautiful bay colt who is truely an old soul at heart.
Barbaro is his name.

WM. 9:58 pm:

***JOB APPLICANT***
A local business was looking for office help. They put a sign in the window saying:
HELP WANTED
Must be a good typist and be good with a computer. Successful applicant must be bilingual. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
A short time later a lovely bay horse trotted up to the window, saw the sign and went
inside. He looked at the receptionist and nodded his head, then walked over to the sign, looked at it, whinnied and pawed the air.
The receptionist called the office manager. He was surprised, to say the least, to see a horse applicant. However, the horse looked determined, so he led him into the office. Inside, the horse laid down and stared at the manager expectantly.
The manager said, "I can't hire you. The sign says you must be able to type."
The horse jumped up, went to the word processorr and proceeded to quickly type a perfect business letter. He took out the page and trotted over to the manager, gave it to him, then laid back down.
The manager was stunned, but told the horse, "That was fantastic, but I'm sorry. The sign clearly says that whoever I hire has to be good with a computer."
The horse jumped up again, went to the computer and proceeded to demonstrate his expertise with various programs, internet marketing, and produced a sample spreadsheet and database; then presented them to the manager.
The manager was dumbfounded! He said to the horse, "Hey, I realize that you are a very intelligent applicant and have fantastic talent, but you're a horse -- no way could I hire you."
The horse trotted over to the sign in the window and pointed his hoof at the words, "Equal Opportunity Employer."
The exasperated manager said, "Yes, I know what the damned sign says. But the sign also says you have to be bilingual."
The horse looked him straight in the eye & said, "Meow."

Update 379: The update today won't come until probably lunchtime I am afraid. Michael Matz has returned to Saratoga, and Peter will speak to him likely mid morning to get an update. I will try to speak to Peter shortly after that. In the meantime I will provide some other content, a mix of comments from yesterday, content from my NBC visit with Peter and a snippet on Bernadini.

[Spoilsport]

I was with my horses at 7 p.m. I gave them an extra scratch and hug for Barbaro, and sent him a little prayer.

When I checked there were 1935 candles lit :eek: :eek: . Should we try to get them to 2000? NOW!!

[VirginiaBred]

1,944 Candles Blazing for Big B!!!!!!!!!!!

[majicsmom]

Make that over 1950!!!!!:yes: :yes: :yes: :yes:

[Susan P]

2,023 candles ablaze!

[VirginiaBred]

Thank you Alex~

Update 382: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (Saturday night). I just spoke to Peter Brette who had received word this morning.

Off to Delaware Park this afternoon to watch some races...
updated sunday 11:30am

[M.K.Smith]

I thought of Barbaro as we drove by New Bolton today. I saw the posters down by the entrance. I keep jingling for him!

[msj]

2058 candles for Barbaro! :yes::yes::yes:

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Tim & Alex:

Update 383: Nice to see Bluegrass Cat win the Haskell. One of Bobby's Derby victims (just had to add that). ESPNs update on Barbaro included a note that Michael said Barbaro remained in good spirits. That is positive and what I continually hear. I asked Peter how he looked when we went yesterday, specifically about his weight and coat. He has dropped weight, but that is only to be expected given he was supremely fit when he entered NBC and has been virtually immobile since. Imagine a human athlete who has to stop exercise entirely for the same period of time. Fortunately he has retained an incredible appetite so that has helped. While he has dropped weight his coat remains very shiny, and he retains a gleam in his eye, both very positive signs. There is much speculation as to why there are no recent Bobby pictures, I am absolutely sure it is not because they believe his appearance would create concern.
Another nugget of information from Peter yesterday, neither Jose Caraballo or Edgar Prado rode Barbaro at any time other than in his races.
Delaware Park was fun today. Peter was there, saddling a horse in the sixth for Michael Matz (who is in Saratoga). I saw Jose Caraballo. I thanked him for our interview (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/08/barbaro_updates_28.php#update367) (it was by phone, he was not entirely sure who I was when I called), and he was very happy to have been able to do it. The Keilbasa Queen was fourth and came back safely.

[VirginiaBred]

From Alex/Tim:
Update 384: Here are a couple of articles I have been meaning to post. With so much human suffering in the world, it would be easy to condemn America's obsession with an injured racehorse - easy but wrong. (http://commentisfree.guardian.co.uk/niall_stanage/2006/05/horses_hopes_and_heartbreak.html) This Guardian (UK) article discusses why we care. It includes the excerpt:

But all the attention has brought out the sceptics. Don't Americans have more important things to worry about than a horse, they ask.
It seems a valid point, but it misrepresents the real issue. Our capacity for compassion is not finite. There is no reason to suppose that those of us who find ourselves caught up in the story of a horse's progress are unconcerned with the fate of human beings in infinitely graver situations.
There are plenty of good reasons why so many people care so much about Barbaro. The simplest and the most potent? The sheer spectacle, the power and the glory, of a great horse at full gallop.

Note, this article is a little dated (two weeks after the Preakness). I thought it was also interesting to note that Peter Brette rode a winner for Ginger McCain (Red Rum's trainer), on the flat!
This article: Power of healing harnessed (http://www.nj.com/printer/printer.ssf?/base/news-8/1154752076242710.xml&coll=1) focuses on The New Jersey Equine Center and Dr. Scott Palmer. It notes Dr. Palmer was a guest of Michael Matz for the Preakness and involved immediately after the accident. We noted in one of the earlier updates a visit to Bobby of Dr. Palmer. The article also notes Smarty Jones' visit to New Jersey Equine. A good article for those interested in learning more about equine hospitals.

[RunForIt]

:) Thanks VB (and others) for your continued posts about Barbaro - he stays in my thoughts. :cool:

[captain]

just lit a few more candles for Bobby..... almost 2200, and from 15 countries...

that sure says something, ay?
go Barbaro and Co.!!

[VirginiaBred]

Monday Morning, from Alex/Tim~

Update 385: This morning's update will be later in the morning that usual. Michael Matz is in Saratoga so I won't likely have any information until after finishing at Fair Hill. There was a fundraising ball in Saratoga last night for New Bolton Center. I believe Dr. Richardson (and likely some others from New Bolton) was in attendance. I had asked a friend to quiz him for some insight but he was pretty busy, as you can imagine.
I have removed the comments section for the time being, if you have any articles of interest you think I could post here, any questions you would like answering, any poems and other creative works for me to post, please let me know. I would appreciate it as it would hopefully retain some of the value the comments section was providing.
Finally, worldwide interest in Bobby remains: Australia (http://www.sportal.com.au/horseracing.asp?i=news&id=86491) and New Zealand (http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/0608/034.shtml).

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks, Alex:

Update 386: Just caught up with Peter Brette. No update yet this morning (I'll call him about noon to see if he has heard) but he did tell me all was well yesterday, so that was good.
I asked Theresa what it was like to ride Barbaro. Theresa used to work for Michael Matz last year. She now works for Jim MvGreevy. She was one of the few who rode Barbaro other than Peter (we know his jockeys only rode him on race day) before Barbaro went down to Florida last year. Her comment: "he had gears you would not believe".

[eggbutt]

Candles lit for the morning --- 2224 shining brightly when I last checked!:yes:

It's hard for me to watch racing now. I watched the Haskell this weekend on TV and when one of the horses broke through the gate early and another faltered a bit shortly after the break, I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach. I enjoyed the snippet on Barbaro...guess they couldn't get away with not mentioning him at this point! I suppose we'll all always wonder what could have been with this incredible horse, particularly those of us old enough to remember watching Secretariat take his place in history.

Thanks everyone for all the posts and updates!

[Susan P]

Jim is my neighbor. He's a nice guy.



Thanks, Alex:

Update 386: Just caught up with Peter Brette. No update yet this morning (I'll call him about noon to see if he has heard) but he did tell me all was well yesterday, so that was good.
I asked Theresa what it was like to ride Barbaro. Theresa used to work for Michael Matz last year. She now works for Jim MvGreevy. She was one of the few who rode Barbaro other than Peter (we know his jockeys only rode him on race day) before Barbaro went down to Florida last year. Her comment: "he had gears you would not believe".

[sporthorsefilly]

Candles lit for the morning --- 2224 shining brightly when I last checked!:yes:

It's hard for me to watch racing now. I watched the Haskell this weekend on TV and when one of the horses broke through the gate early and another faltered a bit shortly after the break, I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach.

I agree, and although I watch, it is hard to feel good and enjoy it. Loved seeing Invasor Saturday...Nice horse.

Lets keep those candles lit for Bobby! Go Barbaro win this one for all of those who love you! And for your fans too :)

[War Admiral]

Haha, I beat ya, VB! :D

From Tim Woolley Racing (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com) - thanks Alex...

Update 387: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (sunday night). Peter Brette just called, he had just heard from Michael (in Saratoga). Phew, sorry for the delay, but it will be kind of like this until Michael returns to Fair Hill (I am not sure when). Love this painting of the Derby, I can spot Bobby in front!
updated monday noon, august 7

[Fancy]

Another comfortable night.
:yes: :yes: :cool: :D :D
I'll settle for about 150 more of these boringly repetitive reports.
:winkgrin: :winkgrin: :winkgrin: :winkgrin:

[VirginiaBred]

Again, thanks Tim:
Links included in this post~
Update 387: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (sunday night). Peter Brette just called, he had just heard from Michael (in Saratoga). Phew, sorry for the delay, but it will be kind of like this until Michael returns to Fair Hill (I am not sure when). Love this painting of the Derby (http://www.artbydannybyl.com/barbaro.jpg), I can spot Bobby in front!
updated monday noon, august 7

file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/Owner/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-3.jpgfile:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/Owner/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-4.jpg

[FirstCry]

Another comfortable night.
:yes: :yes: :cool: :D :D
I'll settle for about 150 more of these boringly repetitive reports.
:winkgrin: :winkgrin: :winkgrin: :winkgrin:

Totally Agreed:yes: :yes: :D :D :winkgrin: :winkgrin:

[Susan P]

DITTO! :winkgrin:

Totally Agreed:yes: :yes: :D :D :winkgrin: :winkgrin:

[VirginiaBred]

In from Alex:
Update 388: Technical stuff. I have made a request of a vendor (http://prospero.com/) to see if they will provide me discussion board and chat software for "free" for three months to see what we can do. (Free = they can serve an ad. etc) Lets see if that can happen. This site is currently ranked 23 on google for the keyword Barbaro. This is a big improvement of late (http://www.google.com/search?q=Barbaro&hl=en&lr=&c2coff=1&start=20&sa=N).


Fair Hill got a mention in a USA Today article on artificial surfaces: Track technology treads on gentle ground (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/horses/2006-08-03-soft-tracks_x.htm). I may have posted a similar article before, but not from the USA Today. The following is a quote from Steve Klesaris:

"I think it's what the industry needs today," said Steve Klesaris, second in Delaware's trainer standings and also based at Fair Hill. "Horses today are not as durable as they were years ago; however, the tracks have not changed in 100 years. The time has come for that."

The promising Green Monkey seems to be sidelined for the timebeing: The Green Monkey sidelined (http://drf.com/news/article/77268.html). I believe he is the most expensive horse to be purchased at a 2yo in training sale (where they breeze the horses as a part of showing them before they sell). He sold for an extraordinary $16 million. He is currently in Saratoga prepping for his first race. His last work (I think it was 1:03 and change for five eighths) seemed a little on the slow side.


I asked Peter this morning why Bobby wore a shadow roll (sheepskin noseband). This type of noseband is sometimes used to encourage a horse to drop his head a little. For Bobby it was simply what Michael Matz does. Everything runs in either a shadow roll or figure eight (cross noseband).

[eggbutt]

I asked Peter this morning why Bobby wore a shadow roll (sheepskin noseband). This type of noseband is sometimes used to encourage a horse to drop his head a little. For Bobby it was simply what Michael Matz does. Everything runs in either a shadow roll or figure eight (cross noseband).

This is very intersting....I often wondered about the sheepskin nosebands and I recall being told it was to keep race horses from seeing ground shadows.

OK, more dumb racing questions: Any particular reason for the white bridles?

And, I've noticed more race horses with their tongues out during warmup. In other disciplines this would be very bad and penalized. How does it affect a race horse other than the obvious chance of biting their tongue?

[VirginiaBred]

Wishing Barbaro well
By Heather A. Davis
www.upenn.edu

The most famous horse since Smarty Jones remains in intensive care but is resting comfortably—and that’s good news for the colt’s owners and scores of new fans.
Ever since the three-year-old Barbaro shattered bones in his leg at the Preakness on May 20 and was transported to Penn’s New Bolton Center for surgery, thousands of people have emailed get-well messages, tacked signs of hope on the fence at the Center and brought carrots, apples and hand-picked grass for the colt to eat.
“I don’t think there are very many message boards for horses,” says Gail Luciani, director of communication for the Vet School, who received 500 messages in an hour that first day. “The response has been huge. … People are really reaching out.”
Messages posted on an online message board for Barbaro (www.vet.upenn.edu/barbaro/) have come from all over the world—from Tennessee and Oklahoma, Puerto Rico and Germany. One horse lover from Chicago urged the colt to “eat your carrots and listen to the doctors and get well soon,” while others have offered prayers. A fan from Delaware insisted that Barbaro is “a true champion on or off the track.”
One anonymous donor gave a generous gift to launch the Barbaro Fund at the George D. Widener Hospital at New Bolton. The money won’t be earmarked for Barbaro, but for ongoing patient care and expansion of the hospital. Information on how to donate can be found at: www.vet.upenn.edu/giving/giving_ways.html.
Barbaro has struck a chord with horse lovers and novices alike. Though the crowds of people who gathered that first day to catch a glimpse of the horse coming into the Kennett Square facility have dispersed, people continue to place flowers along the fence outside the New Bolton Center. Looking at the Kentucky Derby champ you can see why, says Luciani. “You can just see an elegance, an intelligence, a strength,” she says. And as the spotlight shines on Penn’s large animal hospital, Luciani praises the professionalism of the staff, faculty and students there. “The fact that they have a very famous patient has not slowed down anything.”
For updates on Barbaro’s condition, visit the Vet School’s web site at www.vet.upenn.edu (http://www.vet.upenn.edu/).

[VirginiaBred]

From Alex:

Update 389: Just received the following e-mail from Rachel at Kennett Florist:

We headed up to NBC early this morning to treat the staff to Monday morning breakfast of croissants, muffins, danish, donuts, fruit salad, juices and coffee. As always everyone was so thankful and wanted us to convey how much they LOVED everyone who was sending these wonderful treats (which of course was the Barbaro maniacs from the TWR web site), and to send their thanks. As we were heading out one of the staff asked that if we had any deliveries for this afternoon, could we please include carrots.
So up we went this afternoon with lots of Bobby's favorite baby carrots with the greens on top and the baby peeled carrots. We also had a nice basket of goodies specifically for the blood donor horses.
I hit the tack stores this weekend and found some different horse treats (even one called 'hoof snacks' - I figured, hey, couldn't hurt). I'll have to find out if Bobby's got any particular favorite ones, since I still can't find the stud muffins.
Thanks again to all of you for the wonderful treats for Bobby as well as the staff; they are very much appreciated.
Rachel at Kennett Florist

Also, prospero (http://www.prospero.com/) has agreed to help us! I will hopefully get to implement their software (chatroom and discussion boards) tomorrow.

[VirginiaBred]

Update 391: Kathy Anderson, who also had a quick visit to Saratoga, may be visiting Bobby later tonight. If she does, I will try to get an update tonight, otherwise it will be tomorrow.


Update 390: The Hall of Fame Induction ceremonies were held today: Hall of Fame Induction: A Flood of Memories (http://news.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=34749). There were three inductees: Carl Hanford, Bill Boland and Cougar II. The article is a wonderful read. The horse most closely related to Fair Hill is Kelso (the reason for Carl Handford's induction), simply because he was owned by Mrs. DuPont, and while she died recently, her farm was just off the Bohemia river not far from Chesapeake City. She owned racehorses until her passing, and I used to gallop a few when I worked for Barclay Tagg. I was actually on a boat yesterday morning on the Bohemia anchored just by her farm (I am pretty sure). A gorgeous part of the world. Later today was the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame Stakes at Saratoga. The horse that was third (Green Lemon) was trained by an ex Fair Hill trainer, Peter Pugh!

[gubbyz]

My bracelets are here!!!!! They are beautiful, baby blue and say BELIEVE IN BARBARO. for the posters that asked for one, they got mailed today. I slipped mine on last night and had this awesome feeling of happiness and strength come over me. It just makes ya feel good!

[Fancy]

From Alex:

Update 389: Just received the following e-mail from Rachel at Kennett Florist:


I hit the tack stores this weekend and found some different horse treats (even one called 'hoof snacks' - I figured, hey, couldn't hurt). I'll have to find out if Bobby's got any particular favorite ones, since I still can't find the stud muffins.


http://www.studmuffinshorsetreats.com/stud-muffins-products-c-1.html

Can somebody send this URL to Rachel?

[ivy62]

It amazes me that some people just question the feelings we all share... How dare they! This horse has brought people together to unite for a good cause. Not just for his life but maybe some needed changes in horse racing ie: Saratoga closing for a race day due to weather and maybe the tracks surfaces too!
Well....however it is Barabro continues to live in our hearts and that is wonderful. As said for those of us who remember Secretariat and I will add Ruffian to that list 2 horses with unknown potential including Barbaro.
I would like to order some bracelets but does anyone still have the link? I do not want to wade through 85 pages of updates!!! Heehee!
Thanks again VB as usual for the updates. I am very curious about how you go about trying to have a hoof regrow and have good attachment with so much of it removed? HAs this been successful before?
HAve to go light another candle....

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Alex:

Update 392: Kathy Anderson just called....she was leaving New Bolton Center at about 9pm after visiting Barbaro. Bobby had just received a massage. He was out of the sling, munching on some fresh-cut grass. He was bright and alert. And after not having seen him for a couple of days (Kathy was in Saratoga), she thought he even might have put a little weight on.
updated monday 9:20pm

[VirginiaBred]

Fancy, message forwarded!

[Lambie Boat]

virginia bred, thank you so much for these updates. I posted in sporthorse breeding looking for barbaro updates, because sometimes I'm a dunce. forgiveness, please.

[shmeg<33]

thanks for all of these updates, virginiabred!!! your the bestest!!:yes: :winkgrin:

[VirginiaBred]

Early Tuesday, from Alex~

Update 393: Today's update will again be later in the morning due to Michael Matz being in Saratoga. Thankfully we have Kathy Anderson's most recent report from last night (update 392).

New Bolton Center is planning a press release today so we might see that this morning.
Massuese is thankfully OK after being pulled up by Edgar Prado shortly into the Matchmaker, see the last article here: Masseuse OK after injury (http://www.ntra.com/content.aspx?type=news&id=19382).


Here are a couple of poems that have been e-mailed (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/06/contact_us.php):
By Judith Walker:

Wind Kissed Miracle
Ancient One
Trusting One
Knowing One
Our wind kissed miracle
Who has captured all of our hearts
Heaven touched you
When you ran, you flew
Ancient Soul, you knew
Where your friends the Winds slept
You knew how to find Them
To ask if they could play
Chase in meadows, or at the break of day
To sail effortless down tracks of dirt
We watched in awe
Your effortless stride took our breath away
A small pebble caused you to stumble
Then stole your winged hoofs
Ancient One
Trusting One
Knowing One
Our wind kissed miracle
Who has captured our hearts
We still watch in awe
As you fly, and soar
On new Wind friends
Winds of healing love
Healing breath sent daily to you, dearest Ancient Soul
Soon you will play chase in a meadow
Once again take our breath away.

By Gloria Nussbaum:

The Will To Win
(as inspired by Barbaro)
Regal, majestic, magnificent, strong,
The one we awaited, with hope, for so long,
You marched on the stage with a presence unmatched,
And by flawless performance, we all grew attached.
But by more than performance... your own manner drew
Us into the "magic" that we see in few.
That intangible something that shines from within,
That connects with the longing we all have to "win."
Focused, competitive, disciplined, brave,
You showed us a way that we all could behave.
Fluid, commanding, your bearing and strides,
Your outward display hinted more was inside.
And when things went wrong, and your course became rough,
You moved on to teach us that yours was no bluff.
In good times or bad, the fight is the same,
With courage and strength you forge on with no blame.
What have you shown by your will to survive?
A spirit that yearns to stay on -- and, to thrive!
An open heart eager, whatever life holds,
To trust that the future has promise untold.
A passion for keeping on, reaching for more,
With hope in what else may come, yet unexplored.
We have watched with amazement the journey within,
And have seen for ourselves the TRUE will to win.
You've achieved beyond that of sheer Triple Crown lore,
And to us you will always have that class and more,
Because you have touched something so deep inside,
That we all feel like we are along on your ride.
To walk in the footprints of one special horse,
May make little sense to some people, of course,
But by leaving your imprint -- unspoiled and real,
You've taught us all more about ways we can heal.
Will we follow your model - to put forth our best?
And discover the joys that we haven't as yet?
The lessons you teach us are simple, yet deep.
They whisper of truths we'll be honored to keep.
For winning is not merely beating a foe,
It's conquering hardship, and pain, and sorrows,
It's patience, surmounting unknowns once again,
It's rising above - and yes, not giving in.
It matters not whether another competes,
Comparisons, measures, are all incomplete.
No one must lose so that you may win.
A winner stands tall and lifts others with him.
The ending is still to be written, through time,
And "wins" may not look like what we have in mind,
But of this we are sure, you will run your full race,
And wire to wire, you'll finish with grace.
We cherish the chance that we have to observe
Your ongoing victory, so well deserved.
We've joined in the journey. Now may we begin
To grasp the true meaning of "the will to win."

[Fancy]

*sigh!*

How nice. Both poems are lovely.

A race in which no one loses--what a concept!

Thank you, VB, for this post. What a nice way to start off my day.

:) :) :) :)

[slpeders]

WOW.

[VirginiaBred]

Tim/Alex; my thanks!

Update 395: As we wait for our Barbaro update this morning I thought you might like to hear about the Saratoga antics of Bernadini yesterday morning, e-mail excerpt from a friend:

Bernardini looks to be heading towards the Travers with plenty of spunk. He became playful on the way to the Saratoga main track monday morning, rearing up and striking assistant trainer Dave Wallace who was accompanying Bernardini on the lead pony. Dave took a few good whacks on the leg and shoulder, and when I asked him if he was okay he thought I was asking about the horse. You know that's how horse people think. Never mind that being struck by a horse is probably something like having George Foreman hit you with a sledge hammer.

Peter Brette will visit Barbaro after he has finished at Fair Hill, so we will have that update, New Bolton's press release and word from Michael to come.

Update 394: This morning Fair Hill is beautiful, if not a little too warm. On my way back from my first set I saw a fox scampering away across the grass, away from a flock of geese. The geese seemed to have the fox a little rattled. A later set (third or fourth) another fox was calmly trotting across the dirt track, unphased by the horses galloping by. No Bobby update yet, as noted earlier it will likely be later this morning. I have ridden six and have three more left to go.
I thought I would post these two e-mails:
the first from Mike C, regarding his brief meeting with Edgar Prado to give him the CALL:

I went to Monmouth Park yesterday for the races, but also to try to give a copy of "The Call" to Edagr Prado who had several mounts there. He was taken off his mounts in the 1st and 2nd races, guess traffic or the helicopter carring him and John Velazquez there was late....Edgar arrived after the 1st race and was in a hurry. I attempted to talk to him, but him being in a big hurry , POLITELY offered to sign or talk later. So I waited till the end of the day after his last mount to reach him.. After the Haskell, the feature race of the day, I approached him. He was very cordial, I asked him if he'd please sign my BARBARO hat, HE GRACIOUSLY DID...Then I handed him an envelope with a copy of "the call" in it..I explained to him what it was and if he would please try to read it in his spare time, that I felt he may enjoy it..He smiled and we shook hands, I said to him thanks for saving BARBAROS' life, he just smiled and went into the jocks room... Edgar is a very classy guy...

Kim C. also provides her experience seeing Bobby at Keeneland:

The backside at Keeneland is very fan friendly, and it's no problem at all to go back there. There is a parking lot at the end of the area and many fans walk right through the backside area on the way to the track. My mother & I always go back at least once during the meet to see the horses. Now we don't always get to go into the shed row, sometimes we just see the horses from behind the outer wall of shed row, maybe 4-6 feet away. That's how we saw Bobby.
We were walking around a shed row area and come upon a security guard and I asked him where Michael Matz was stabled. He told us and we went down to his barn and stood about 4-6 feet away from Bobby. He had his head down munching hay and we couldn't see anything but his hind quarters. As we were standing there imploring Bobby to look at us, someone walked by his stall, saw us, stopped and got Barbaro's attention and Bobby moved around to the front of the stall and we got to see him quite well. We talked to him a minute, but he was more interested in his hay! We also saw Smarty Jones in 2004. So, next year, whoever wants their horse to win the derby just needs to have us go see him at Keeneland.
It was kind of hard to tell how big Bobby was from inside the stall but he looked a good size. I know his daddy is about 17.1 hands. We thought Bobby had a beautiful face. I'm a big fan of Dynaformer and early this year when
the TC preps began, Barbaro immediately drew my attention because he was a Dynaformer.
We were, to say the least, thrilled to see him at Keeneland and super thrilled to see him win the derby.

[VirginiaBred]

Update 396: Jeannine Edwards just sent me this e-mail which gives a little insight into the "behind the scenes" of producing a show, and of course Barbaro!

before our show on sunday, i had called michael to see if he was going to be at monmouth for the matchmaker and if so, could we interview him on the show. he told me he just gotten to saratoga and wouldn't be there. i said i was just in saratoga and just now got to monmouth! (kenny mayne, randy moss, jerry bailey, rolly hoyt our researcher, some of our production crew, and myself all worked the double header weekend we had aug 5/6. we started in saratoga on thurs, worked the whitney show from 5-6pm on saturday, then after returning our rental cars at the albany airport jumped into a limo for the ride down to monmouth, arriving at 11pm sat night. sunday morning i got up at 6am and we were all cramming for our haskell telecast that afternoon at 5pm..... after which 10 of us had dinner at chili's and then drove to a hotel at newark airport for our flights out monday morning.) anyway, i had a nice chat with michael. he said barbaro continues to show that strong spirit and determination. i asked what he sees in his face and eyes when he looks at barbaro.... is it spunk, fear, worry, weariness, etc. he said if anything barbaro's spirit and attitude are getting better. he said he's not getting tired of the routine, he's getting brighter. he said he REALLY wants out of the stall.... every time the door opens he's ready. i was happy to hear that and we thank michael for taking the time to chat with me and fill me in a little.

[VirginiaBred]

I bet he DOES want out of that stall!

Praying that day comes soon!!!!!!!!!

[VirginiaBred]

In from Alex:

Update 397: New Bolton's press release, Cast change planned for Barbaro later today (http://www.vet.upenn.edu/newsandevents/news/Barbaro_Update8-8.htm):

Doctors at Penn's George D. Widener Hospital plan to change the right hind leg cast of Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro later today. "Changing the cast gives us the opportunity to take new radiographs and evaluate the progress of the fracture healing and joint fusions," said Dr. Dean Richardson, Chief of Surgery.
"His left hind hoof continues to show signs of regrowth and looks healthy," said Dr. Richardson. The colt's left hind foot, which had most of the hoof wall removed due to severe laminitis, has a daily bandage change for examination and treatment.

[Gunnar]

Candle is lit, curb chains are at hand and I am still sending all postive thoughts your way Bobby.

Thanks for all the updates and poems. They make my day!:sadsmile:

VB, you posted earlier that there was less activity when things were going well. Never fear we are all here and of course we are checking the updates. I assume many of us are still rooting for Bobby, even if we do not post. I myself have 3 different pictures of Bobby in front of my face. My favorite one is of Michael and Bobby sharing a tender moment!:sadsmile: Keep up the good work and never fear as Team Barbaro is thriving!:cool: :yes: :sadsmile:

Go Bobby go!

[eggbutt]

Remember the fabulous article many pages back "GOD JUMPS"? I had emailed the author to let her know I'd posted her writing here and here's the wonderful response I just received from her. If you have forwarded the article to anyone, please do credit her as the author of this wonderful piece:

Hi,
Thanks for writing! That article has received more circulation than anything I've written to date. :)
I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Please feel free to distribute it, but please credit me and Flying Changes Magazine, where it was originally published.
Thank you!
Lauren

Flying Changes Magazine
19502 NE 134th Place
Battle Ground, WA 98604
(360) 687-0203
fax (360) 687-4898
www.flyingchanges.com (http://www.flyingchanges.com)


Can't wait to hear about the cast change today! Candles lit and curb chains jangling!

[VirginiaBred]

From Tim/Alex:
Update 398: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro, I know we could assume that with the press release, but it did not explicitly say so. Peter just called, had had heard from Michael. Peter is visiting later today, so I will try to catch up with him again a little later.
update 12:30 pm, tuesday august 8

[chawley]

Thanks so much for the updates VB - I'm praying hard for Barbaro!

[War Admiral]

Cast is being changed right now, according to Tim Woolley Racing blog...

Special jingles to Barbaro for cast-changing day!

[VirginiaBred]

Many thanks to Alex & Tim~

Update 400: Peter called, 4:30 pm, they are currently changing his cast on his right hind leg as noted in New Bolton's update today. I hope to hear more later.
Update 399: A quick update from Kennett Florist and their visit today from Rachel:

Just got back from my trip to NBC today. We got in a fresh shipment of baby carrots with the greens this morning, since they had asked for more carrots yesterday. It's always nice to be greeted at the door by everyone at NBC. The baskets had some treats for them as well. We made use of some of the money from the "kitty" that many have been sending in the mail for some of the treats today. So thank you to all. I had a chance to talk to Dr. Sweeney briefly and asked how Bobby was doing. She said he was doing good and they were getting ready to do his regularly scheduled cast change. She also extends her thanks to everyone for all the gifts that are being sent.
Rachel at Kennett Florist

I also wanted to note I have uploaded three pictures from my visit to New Bolton on saturday. The "featured" photo is of Peter Brette, posing with one of the six cards delivered from Churchill Downs. The second is of the Thomas family, who were visiting from Tampa Florida and had just posted the two images that are displayed between them. The third picture is a poster from the Barbaromaniacs!

[VirginiaBred]

Update 401: While we wait for news on Bobby's cast change, an interesting story is Kelso's dad, Your Host (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Your_Host_%28horse%29). Bobby is even cited in this wikipedia article (thanks Beverly).

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks to Tim/Alex:



Update 402: Another lovely poem, by Melissa Harden:

Horse Angels Speaking
By
Melissa Harden
Barbaro must be listening a minute or two
To Horse Angels Secretariat and Seattle Slew
It is too soon to join us Secretariat said
Therefore you need now to listen instead.
Continue your healing and being patiently calm
Your positive attitude is the best healing balm
They're are saying you're smart and we have to agree
But what else should we expect with your great pedigree.
We have races in heaven and a whole lot of fun
But it is too soon to join us; your job is not done.
You will see that we all must have our own Triple Crown
Yours might be through your foals or even greater renown.
You have made safety in racing a cause celebre
That might be your achievement at the end of your day
Or there might be another Triple Crown with you son
So even not on a course there're still races to run.
But whatever your job is, your success is confirmed
Because we know you are one of us chimed in Affirmed.
For you see we know that you are one of us and great
Even though your own Triple Crown was stolen by fate.
We'll be watching you closely to see you don't falter
While hearing the prayers offered here at our altar
For there are so many more legends with us up here
With us watching over you, you have nothing to fear.
You can also tell Mike Rea that we are all praying
So he will recover soon and restart his training
Cause we know that he loves horses and misses them too
Tell him that next time in the saddle to use crazy glue.


Edited to add, GREAT POEM!!!

[VirginiaBred]

FINALLY, this in from Alex: (I had been worried!)

Update 403: Peter Brette just called. They have changed the cast, Bobby is now back in his stall. He did have anesthesia as I think they wanted to check everything etc. (all his feet etc.) but it seems all is well, he recovered in the pool and is now returned. I am sure we will hear more from New Bolton tomorrow etc. Peter called 8:45 pm

[ASB Stars]

Thanks so much for the word, VB, we depend on you!

I think we need a veritable torch out there, friends of Bobby! Send out the word- let's get it back over 2K- I know he DESERVES our commitment- and I also know...

he will FEEL it- after this tough day!

[Susan P]

Ok, I just lit a bunch more candles, can't believe how few are lit now. Just because he's getting better we can't stop till he's out of the woods. I don't think the candles will make him get better, but it will make everyone know that we are thinking about him and care. :yes:

[Laurel&HollyFarm]

One from Bob my ottb that recovered from a horrible colic, the one that is not caused by an inpaction or twist, complete with toxic showers and one from my ottb broodmare that would love a Bobby baby if only in her dreams :D.

[I'm EBO]

Another little candle blinking its heart out for Bobby.

[Mardi]

I just lit three. We'll get the number back up, don't worry....

[captain]

i just lit 7, for all my beloveds that understand Bobby's plight. not to stray from candles being lit, but could i please get any info on a Bobby bracelet or two or...? i can't seem to find a source, here or elsewhere......thank you : )

[VirginiaBred]

Thank you Tim/Alex:

Update 404: Much like the last couple of days the morning update will be delayed as Michael is in Saratoga and I have to wait until Peter talks to Michael later in the morning. The following article: Motion Sizes Up Arlington Festival Races (http://racing.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=34768) discusses this weekend's stakes races at Arlington and quotes from Fair Hill's Graham Motion (who will run Better Talk Now and Film Maker, two super consistent graded stakes horses over the years) and Barclay Tagg who provides a little insight into the switch to the Turf for the Jackson's Showing Up:

"I think he's very adept on both surfaces, but a little more comfortable on the grass," Tagg said. "I made the switch because I thought Barbaro would go ahead and do the Triple Crown, and I didn't need to have him chasing Barbaro around."

Its nice to see a trainer frankly talk about his horse's prospects in light of another horse, knowing he won't offend his owner!

[VirginiaBred]

Hi Rescuemom, I went ahead and ordered my own bracelets, they are baby blue and say: Beleive in Barbaro. I should be getting them by Aug. 5th. If you like, I would be happy to send you one. Just give me your info in a PM.


Captain, PM gubbyz to find out about a bracelet. :)

[msj]

I do hope the Jackson's realize that when Bobby goes 'home' from NBC that he will expect his very own swimming pool! :lol: :lol:

I figure we can use some humor on this thread! :D

Off to light a few more candles for Bobby. :)

[eggbutt]

THANKS VB....candles lit. I have been anxiously awaiting the news on the cast change and how his foot looks. Can't wait to hear more about what they saw. Fingers crossed, curb chains jingling and candles lit for all involved that the progress is still very positive.

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks, Alex~

Update 405: No update yet. I will catch up with Peter once I am finished riding (two more to go) but he did mention he plans to visit today. I started a little earlier this morning (5:20 am) and certainly before the sun started. It does seem we have quite a few foxes around, and they are not shy. I saw at least two while on my first set (at least I think they were foxes, either that or the deer are shrinking). The only other set on the track first thing was Michael Matz's set (of ten horses / riders).

Later I caught up with Tim, Barclay Tagg's assistant. He told me about Showing Up this weekend (which we know), but I was more interested in his time working for Allaire DuPont (he worked for her for 20 years until she recently passed away). He was there when Kelso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kelso_%28horse%29) was there (not during his racing period) but noted he used to get many visitors (by the bus load). People can still visit his grave is on the farm, they just need to call ahead.

And later still, I nearly fell off (trainer did not see, it was coming onto the track, 2yo rearing up). Nearly, but not quite!

[Maude]

Has anyone seen or purchased the new Barbaro Breyer Horse Model? I was checking out their website and $10.00 of every model sold goes to New bolton. Cool Huh!

[rescuemom]

Has anyone seen or purchased the new Barbaro Breyer Horse Model? I was checking out their website and $10.00 of every model sold goes to New bolton. Cool Huh!
That's great. I didn't even think about there being a Breyer model but I should go get one, to go with my Secretariat.:)

[VirginiaBred]

Thanks Tim & Alex!

Update 407: New Bolton Center press release: Another smooth cast change for Barbaro (http://www.vet.upenn.edu/newsandevents/news/Barbaro_Update8-9.htm):

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro is doing well this morning after the cast on his right hind limb was changed late yesterday afternoon under general anesthesia. "The leg looked good under the cast, especially considering the length of time that he has been in a cast," said Dr. Dean Richardson, Chief of Surgery. "The radiographs also were encouraging. There is no sign of active infection. This is further supported by his markedly improving blood values over the last two weeks. He had an excellent pool recovery; he is a very intelligent horse and has definitely figured out the whole process."
The cast on the right hind leg encloses the foot and extends up to just below the hock. It will continue to be changed regularly until the fractures and joint fusions have healed completely enough to sustain full weight bearing.
The bandage and protective boot on Barbaro's laminitic left hind foot continues to be changed daily. "The appearance of the foot is very good. It is dry and healthy looking with excellent early regrowth at the coronary band," said Dr. Richardson.
Barbaro remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the University of Pennsylvania's George D. Widener Hospital, where he is recovering from injuries suffered at the Preakness on May 20.
The next update will be posted on Tuesday, August 15 unless there is a significant change in Barbaro's condition.

[War Admiral]

He had an excellent pool recovery; he is a very intelligent horse and has definitely figured out the whole process."

You've got to loff a smart TB. Go Barbaro!!!

[Gunnar]

You've got to loff a smart TB. Go Barbaro!!!

Barbaro is my hero and obviously one smart cookie!!:sadsmile:

I am going to lite a few more candles for you my boy!:sadsmile:

[eggbutt]

WHEW! Thank you Lord.....tears of joy.

[Bascule Baby]

Many thanks to Alex & Tim~

I also wanted to note I have uploaded three pictures from my visit to New Bolton on saturday. The "featured" photo is of Peter Brette, posing with one of the six cards delivered from Churchill Downs. The second is of the Thomas family, who were visiting from Tampa Florida and had just posted the two images that are displayed between them. The third picture is a poster from the Barbaromaniacs!

Where are the pics?

[majicsmom]

Off to light more candles while doing the *happy dance of joy*!!:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[slpeders]

Where are the pics?

Pics on the timwooley site -- see virginiabred's sig for link.

[Davignport]

How wonderful to hear that good report on Bobby and that both his legs are doing well. I think of him often each day and always check here first thing in the morning. VB is a lifesaver for all of us who are so attached to this horse. I am hoping the day will come when I can go and see him in person out in his paddock enjoying the sunshine. Have to go light some more candles...

[VirginiaBred]

[quote=Davignport VB is a lifesaver for all of us who are so attached to this horse. I am hoping the day will come when I can go and see him in person out in his paddock enjoying the sunshine. [/quote]

I can't believe how attached I have become to him, myself.

Very emotionally attached. :sadsmile:

[eggbutt]

I can't believe how attached I have become to him, myself.

Very emotionally attached. :sadsmile:


It really is amazing isn't it? I sometimes imagine he's one cranky fellow with all his nipping and biting and everyone is being kind by not mentioning what a nasty horse he really is, but so far no one has said anything but positive wonderful things that sound like any normal stallion that has been confined for months! Regardless, I'm almost as emotionally attached to him as I am my own horses. I'd love to visit him one day too!:yes: :yes: :yes: A COTH Field Trip to visit Barbaro at home!!!!:yes: :yes:

[eks]

Thanks as always VB for keeping us so well informed! I come here at least once a day to make sure "Our" boy is still doing well. I went to the tack shop today and saw they had Studmuffins...so I'm putting them in the mail asap to Barbaro's attention at New Bolton....they look good enough for people to eat!

It is so good to hear that everything is progressing well and that Barbaro is being so smart about everything!

[Fancy]

Thanks VB--as always, a fantastic job.

Is there any chance of getting some new pics of Bobby? We haven't had any for a month--I'd just like some new pinups!

:winkgrin: :winkgrin: :winkgrin: :winkgrin:

[I'm EBO]

What good news and WHAT A RELIEF!!!!! I was beginning to wonder if they were trying to find a kind way to deliver bad news. Shame on me! Whap whap!

Off to light a celebratory candle or dozen.

[ivy62]

As always thanks VB for the updates... I am cautiously optimistic about this horse.....I hope he pulls through. He is the post child for how equine patients should act!
Off to light another candle......

[BBowen]

VirginiaBred:

As always, thanks for updating us on Barbaro and also many thanks to those the keep you updated as well. It is wonderful to have one place to go to get the latest info. And, what wonderful news of his steady progress. Prayers and jingles continued for our boy.

[VirginiaBred]

This just in:

Update 408: Peter Brette just called. He managed a quick visit to Barbaro today and said he remains comfortable.

Michael also had a winner at Delaware so I managed to congratulate Peter (I only knew thanks to this site!) A poem from TLC (from updates 39 (http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/news/2006/08/barbaro_updates_34.php): 4:00 pm):

Our message to Barbaro....
Everyday we say a prayer
for another comfortable night.
For together we stand,
this close knit group,
united against Barbaro's plight.
This beautiful being
has brought us together,
similar in so many ways.
For we all have the hope,
the thoughts, and the wishes
to see Barbaro through each of these days.
Stay strong we all say,
listen to your doctors,
show everyone how smart you are.
An inspiration to so many,
Barbaro, a bright shining star.
So Bobby, (as he is known by so many),
keep your head high and eyes all a'gleam.
For each of us knows
in our heart of hearts,
that you will fulfill our dream.