We all have those days. Thank you for telling us. Sorry, but I just worry about Barbaro because I love him! Thanks Alex.

Thank you Alex, your the man!

Thanks for letting us know Alex - now we know not to worry.

Has anyone heard about the plane crash right outside of Lexington? Right now the death count is at 50. Horrible. They said that the fact that the plane went down in horse country means that it is easier for the rescue crews to get to the scene. All of the places being mentioned on the news are familiar horse areas.

Janice

Thank you God for Bobby's right and perfect healing, and for his complete recovery. Thank you God that miracle follows miracle, and wonders never cease.

Magnificent Steed! Another day closer.

The LIGHT of God surrounds you
The LOVE of God enfolds you
The POWER of God Protects you
The PRESENCE of God watches over you
Wherever you are Bobby, God IS.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

I should have said Lexington, Kentucky - the heart of horse country.

Janice

'morning, y'all!

I'm reading articles left and right..lol

I'm sorry, too, to see mention of sadness in 'what might have been' with regard to Barbaro.

His journey is obviously different than that of most horses- what he's doing now, for himself, for us, for the staff caring for him and for his connections, has far greater lasting impact than anything he could possibly have done on the track.

Imagine how many horses and their people will be helped by what Barbaro is teaching?

Look how many people he's brought together.

no small task in our very divided world.

GOOD MORNING, ALEX..nice to know you're
human and don't run on Duracell all the time!! :-)
Now I can breath again and check out those links while I wait patiently!

Gooood morning Alex!..I understand perfectly! If anybody is entitled to have a day "off" it's you!

Gotta get going early today, so Barbaro, open those beautiful eyes, time to rise and shine!

Hope to hear later that you've had AGN! Praying that will be so.

Twitch your ears, flick your tail...here it comes!

Eat your carrots everyday
No more sling, so play in the hay

Sunshine, breezes, grass everywhere
There is nothing to compare

Grow hoof grow! Heal leg heal!
That's become our daily appeal

Keep on doing like you are
You're our bright and shining star!

Hope you won't mind, babycakes, if I yodel to Foggy for those tumors to shrink, shrink, shrink!

Have a great day, sweet Barbaro, hope the weather is nice enough for you to go out to graze. Will check back later when I come home from work.

Keep on keeping on champ! Hugs and smoochies!

Good Morning, Barbaromaniacs!

Am waiting for today's update like the rest of us. Thanks Alex. Its a cloudy morning in Chester County - have been hearing rumblings of thunder. We need the rain - just hope Barbaro can get outside today for a little bit. Good Morning, Tim, Alex, NBC, Dr. R. the Jacksons, Edgar P, Eduardo, Messaging, Luke the pony, Peter and Kim, KF (Alie, if I ever need a hug, I'm coming to see you...), fellow Barbaromaniacs. Was just reading on a website that soul families are usually in groups of at least 2,000...what are we up to now as far as a headcount???? Anybody ever figured that out? (and for the Carrot Posse, what is your headcount?)

Mike Rea, fantastic news...posted a comment on your site. Glad you'll be closer to home. You're on your way.

LITF, good morning, dear one. Hope your day has lots of sunshine, warm breezes, good food and lots of time with your connections. Happy Sunday, my Long Time Sun.

Barbaro, you're nice and clean from yesterday's bath...how's the goat? Hope you get outside today and dodge the raindrops...enjoy this beautiful time. Shine on you crazy diamond.

Healing and Peace,
Lyn Gilbert

Alex, we all need a break now and then. You too! I'm happy to get updates whenever you can provide them.

Just my opinion: I think that what Barbaro has done this year is at least as impressive as anything he could have done on the track. He should be the horse of the year.

Alex, thank you for putting up the link to Jessica Frank's St Liam tribute. It is beautiful.


Anna, word. So much good has come out of this. The layers of what's going on, above the what ifs -- us being human -- there is the evolution of the human spirit, medicine, respect for animals and compassionate community, guided by the heart of a horse. A rascal who'd nip ye for the fun of it if ye turned your back on him! -- Peace, Susan in Saratoga

Saint Liam was such a beautiful horse. His signature colors of pink and turquoise were so distinctive. Almost like Secretariat and his blue and white checks. All I can say is that I will be looking for his babies in a couple of years to carry on his legacy.

Great news about Mike Rea. I hope that he will be able to visit Fair Hill soon. I know being around familiar settings will speed his recovery, especially the things he loves.

May Foggy have a week of 'shrinking' tumors.

And last, but not, least, may Bobby continue on his 'path' to a speedy recovery. He's walking out of the woods . . .

Thanks to all who contribute to this site and to Alex, for his dedication and great reporting.

Carly, HOY is based on on-track performance, I learned.

Susan, I don't think anyone has told Barbaro he won't run again. I imagine he will. Just not out of a starting gate.

Another wonderful tribute to Saint Liam...I don't admit to many guys looking good in bright pink, but Liam looked amazing!

Fantastic news about Mike moving closer to home and Fair Hill! He's getting closer to that light at the end of the tunnel :-)

There have been some really nice articles about yesterday's racing. I'm glad it's been cleared up that Javier Castellano did no more than give Bernardini a light tap with his whip, and not use it excessively. I missed all the excitement before the race when he was unseated by him

'He had a bad step and I lost my balance,' Castellano said. 'He's a special horse, nothing bothers him. He's a professional horse ... It was my fault.'

and I heard that Minister's Bid was playing up too and needed his pony and goat! Awwwww, bless!

I'm so glad there were no upsets and they all came home safe :-)

GOOD MORNING ALEX

YOU NEED A BREAK SOMETIME AND SUNDAY IS THE DAY OF REST BUT ON RACE TRACKS THERE ARE NEVER DAYS OF REST. HERE HOPING BARBARO HAS A GOOD NIGHT AND GETS TO GO OUT TODAY..
BETTY

Morning all - will to have check back & see how the BOY is doing later - great news on Mike Rea -nothing better than being closer to home...later

Thanks Alex for the update. You work for us has been non-stop and we appreciate everything you do.

good morning. alex, please enjoy a morning to yourself -- we will still be here when you get back and thank you for everything you do for the people who use this site.

that's wonderful news about Mike.

Janice from florida, it's a small jet, I fly that route every monday on the same plane from atlanta to louisville. very sad.

there was a very nice article in the new york times today about yesterday's race with some nice mentions about barbaro.

Thanks Alex. Have a great ride(s) today. I look forward to your updates and comments on each days ride.

I have to say I truly have a new appreciation for what you do. I went to the Kentucky Horse Park yesterday (Saturday) and road a big beautiful Palomino around the park. He was such a sweet horse and I gave him a hug afterwards for such a great ride and he nuzzled my cheek. I was touched. So now I?m hooked on riding and looking for local riding stables so I can get more experience.

Thanks Barbaro! I have always loved horses and wanted to ride but just never did for one reason or another. But having been so involved in monitoring your recovery has made me want to get better acquainted with your magnificent species.

Praying for full recoveries for Barbaro and Lost In The Fog.

Jean - Ohio

Good morning Alex - did you go to the Whip last night???

Good Morning Barbaro - hope you had a good night and slept well. I sure did. You have a wonderful morning. I won't be back to check on you for a couple of hours - I have a Football Fantasy Live Draft to attend to. Wish me luck Barbaro. XXOO and SCRACTCHIES

Aunty Sally

Sometimes its hard to get started on weedend mornings LOL. I understand ya. Mabe when I get back from Church we will have something.

So sad about the Airplane crash. I read only one survivor.

lynda -- thanks for the update on the crash, i have alot of colleagues and friends in that area as my company is headquartered in louisville. the people in kentucky are very loving, wonderful and close knit. what a terrible shame.

jean from ohio -- great for you to start riding lessons! remember: toes in, heels down. start with basic equitation.

I have been following your daily updates and appreciate what you are doing, as well, as the what the miracles the folks at NBC do every day.
I attended the races at Timonium ysterday and witnessed a tragic breakdown in the second race and it brought to mind the Preakness, Forunately Barbaro's owners were willing to try to save Barbaro. Although, I do not think that the breakdown was caused by the fact that this was a race for AMATEUR riders, I was still bothered by the fact that on a racing card where there is betting that they would have an event for amateurs with weights as high as 142 pounds. Bless the soul of Total Advantage and for the well being of the injured jockey.

Jean from Ohio...

Like you, I'm finally acting on my lifelong passion for horses (since following Barbaro's recovery so closely) and am now taking English riding lessons. I'm having a blast!!!

Becky from Chicago

Alex,

Take a well deserved break, and don't worry about us. We are grateful for all you do, and know how exhausting your days must be.
We appreciate and applaud you. Yeahhhhh Alex.

Have a wonderful day, all you wonderful people.

Zeke is doing great. I think he thinks he's all better now. Getting around like nothing happened.
So grateful for all of your good energy and prayers to him. Thank you, one and all.
Therese in Chicago.

Alex, In my opinion, Barbaro is the Horse Of The Year. His win at the Derby was a beautiful thing to see, but what he has accomplished off the race track is so much more astounding. He has fought for his life with grace, dignity, and an amazing will to live. He alone has united a nation in love, caring, and prayers - a nation that has shown how very much they love this horse. To me that makes him Horse Of The Year! Thank you Alex for your daily updates on our Beautiful Barbaro.

Morning Barbaro!! Hope you had a good night, and are sleeping in, maybe with breakfast in bed. Look foward to eats, treats and walkies today, be a good boy outside.

Alex, no problem, you take your time this morning, we'll be patient. It's funny, before I signed on this morning, I was just thinking, when does Alex ever get a day off?? It seems like you're always there!

God bless Barbaro, make his hoof grow, his bones mend strong.

God bless Foggy, shrink, tumors, shrink!

Prayers that Antonio's vet trip goes well today...

Have a great Sunday everyone!

Hi, All My Fellow Barbaromaniacs,

Great news about Mike.

We've got a fellow maniac, Cheryl, in the Tampa, Clearwater area where right now Hurricane Ernesto is projected to hit. Pray that she and her home stay safe. I know you will because you are all warm-hearted people.

Good morning to Barbaro, Horse of Forever.

Notice that Bluegrass Cat -- runner up in the Travers and sharer of Michael Matz's
birthday 1/23 -- is being retired due to a pastern injury.

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Janice,

Waiting on new of Bobby. Hope all is well.

No real new yet on the crash in Lexington. I live just outside Lexington, about 20 minutes from the airport & Keeneland. There has been one confirmed survivor but he/she is in critical condition at UKMC. The flight originated in Lex and was going to Atlanta. Not many crashes at Bluegrass Field. One a few years ago, a private jet that actually crashed through a fence at the airport & landed on Versailles Road in front of Keeneland. One person on the plane was killed.

Apparently the problem was know immediately after take-off. Don't know if the plane actually managed to take off, but a large fireball was seen.

The airport is bordered by Darley/Jonabell and has rural land all around it. Weather was o.k., maybe a little light rain. I'm sure it has shaken up the horse population in that area as well.

Thanks for your concern.

Kim

I, too, am heading out to church and will check in later for the update.

#####

Therese - such good news about Zeke. I'm sure you're delighted with his progress.

Jean from Ohio

I waited until age 59 to start riding. I'm still taking lessons and have switched to English from Western. How I wish I had started English. I can't think of anything else I've done in my lifetime that has given me such joy. I only wish I had started years ago.

Janice

Friar - did he hurt himself yesterday??? No wonder he didn't win! Poor baby - hope he is gonna be ok!!

Distressing things in the news again this morning... Barbaro you are are ray of sunshine. Keep your steady course buddy...we need you.

I feel a little bad for Bernardini. He is a beautiful magnificent horse and his stats are proving him to certainly be a contender HOTY. But I fear if he is selected, it will not be popular with the public and that is really not fair to him. In a way, the whole thing reminds me of War Admiral versus Seabiscuit. But at least Biscuit was able to prove himself on the track. War Admiral was a beauty on the track but the popular sentiment was with Seabiscuit.

I know Bernadini is deserving, but I can already feel myself being dissapointed if he wins. I know that is not fair or correct. But in my case...it's just how I feel.

I am extatic that TEAM BARBARO is winning the other award. Reconizing the efforts that this TEAM (including Barbaro himself) is truely fitting and wonderful.

Barbaro, ...you are my Horse of ALL Horses. No amount of racing stats will change that. The stats that you are creating right now are the most amazing miracle that I have ever seen.
You already showed us what you could do out there wire to wire. NOTHING will take that away from you. But now, the awe inspring perfomance you are giving shows us your true capacity.

I will resist the tempatation to get too politcal here. Suffice it to say that I think people in America feel like maybe we took a bad step right along with you. Things are not going along as they were supposed to. We are feeling a bit beat up too, but it is our nature as it is yours, to get back up and keep trying.

We are looking all looking for better days ahead.
SHOW US THE WAY BARBARO.

Leslie in MN

Good morning Alex and everyone! Will look forward to hearing if Bobby had another good night later on today. I will now make my daily stop to light a candle. Hope all have a good day!

###

To Janice from FL,
I'm 56 and took my first English riding lesson two weeks ago...next one this Thursday. So happy to have finally started to connect with a horse.

Becky from Chicago

Sally, Key West

Apparently, although per Bloodhorse he cooled down fine after the race. He came up lame this morning, and x-rays revealed (non-displaced)fractured RH pastern. He's being retired to stud.

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Re: Bluegrass Cat

OH no. I posted yesterday after the race that his right rear looked stiff when he galloped out. Poor Blue. He ran and ran and ran his heart out yesterday.

ALEX,

Thanks. Updates whenever. It's cool.

Take it easy.

Good Morning,

Alex, take your time. Your updates are great.

Bobby, hope your enjoying the cooler temps, and it stays dry today for you to go outside. Take it easy Big Guy.

Love ya,
Edie

I sent a card to LITF's handlers hoping that the treatment works. Foggy enjoy the extra love and attention.!

Love ya,
Edie

BGC injured!!!! OH DANG IT!! Another of my Fav's ! This is getting kind of OLD!

Breeders Cup = Bernadini versus NO ONE!!

Shoot......... I sure hope he is okay and will heal up fast. Good Luck boy. Happy Retirement. Get yourself back to the Bluegrass.

Leslie in MN

Good luck today with your cast change Barbaro.

Friar Tuck...

That's really sad news about Bluegrass Cat. I'm just glad he got through the race without breaking down...that would have been tragic!

Darn. Hate to hear that about BlueGrass Cat, but at least it's not life-threatening and doesn't sound like surgery is required.

Tough news about the plane crash in Lexington.

kim in ky -- thanks for the update, are you near frankfort? i commute from s florida to louisville every week and take that flight from atlanta to lville....

beautiful country.

thanks for the update alex, i think that makes perfect sense, dr. richardson probably want's to make sure that everything is "aok" before he leaves. will that mean full anesthesia again?

Danielle
Are they changing Barbaro's cast today?

Will Dr R come in?

Alex: I was worried about you this morning. What we do without you.

I feel bad for Bernardini. He's still not going to get the respect he deserves. Now everyone will say he won because Bluegrass Cat was injured.

Of course, I love Barbaro as much as you all but it is a shame that Bernardini just can't be acknowledged as the great horse he is without some sort of contraversy surrounding his wins.

Sorry - Just saw Alex's update.

Thank you Alex. I will be nervous till we know all went well.

So sorry to hear about Bluegrass Cat BUT so glad he was o.k. while racing and he will be happy with his new "calling".

My breeder was supposed to fly home this morning from KY. Thank goodness, she just called from the road and is fine. She said with all the commotion going on now, she took her rental car and is driving home.

Has anyone got a link to an article talking about Bluegrass Cat's injury and retirement??

Oops never mind, just saw the update

So, Bluegrass Cat ran the race on an injury??

shelly a -- driving is best right now. hope she gets home safely.

It shows you once again just how fragile these beauties are. Bluegrass Cat cooled off and seemed fine after the race. This morning he was lame. Very scary to me.

Pary

Full anesthesia again.
We need to pray for our Barbaro!
If it's full anesthesia, and recovery pool.
Gee the last time it took him a lot longer to come around.
Worryed about all this!

Good Morning,

Alex thank you so much. If it were not for this website, I would be extremely homesick. To tell you the truth, I am homesick!

I was reading the posts and saw where there was a plane crash. Sorry to hear that.

Hoping all goes well with Barbaro, LITF, Antonio, Samson, Mike, etc.

I was shocked to find out this morning about Bluegrass Cat being retired with a pastern injury--which I found out here.

I'm so happy Mike is doing better, and that LITF has a "reasonable chance" of making it.

Re. Bernardini, I am completely behind this wonderful horse, and I want him to dominate. It takes nothing away from Barbaro. Barbaro is running another race now. I would have loved more than anything to see Barbaro running against Bernardini in these classic races, but it was not to be.

Barbaro has done great things for racing, for other horses, for medicine, and for all of our souls. He has, probably, inspired Greg Gilchrist to go to the wall for Lost in the Fog, because Lost in the Fog is a fighter like Barbaro. Barbaro was a tragedy that has turned (almost, not out of the woods yet) into a triumph of incredible proportions.

Bernardini is making his name on the track. Finally, he may be emerging from the shadow of Barbaro, and I think every horseman wants to see something spectacular in the coming races.

Bernardini doesn't hurt Barbaro. Nothing can hurt Barbaro in the eyes of the public and in the eyes of his people.

Good morning Barbaro! My thoughts are always with you and I send you prayers and wishes for another good day for you. Keep healing and be strong.

My heart goes out to all who are involved with the terribly sad news coming out of Kentucky this morning. God Bless and comfort them.

I thought they were able to do cast change in sling now?

Alex, thanks for letting us know about the cast change...I can understand why the Doc wants to do it now. Fingers crossed that everything looks ok and Bobby is ok.

I never thought I'd ever hear myself say that I'm looking forward to the racing, but I'm rapidly getting the bug! The 3.45 at Goodwood is on now...George Washington looks great and they're saying how good he is that he doesn't even need his pony!!! :-)

Big Daddy Wolf is also running at Monmouth Park...Alex, did you still ride this horse?

PS - good luck, Bobby, with your cast change today! i'll be thinking of you all day.

Shelley
Please tell us again what race Boxcar is in and approximate time.

Praying for him also.

Will it be full anesthesia again? I just cannot help but be nervous.

What would I do without you all, Alex and this website.

Well, now here I thought this was going to be a relaxing Sunday!! NOT!

Please light candles and send good thoughts to NBC and Barbaro.

Grow Hoof Grow!
Shrink Tumor Shrink!
Go away Ernesto, Go away.!
Fuse Bones! FUSE!

Whew!.......panting...

Leslie in MN

Comair has confirmed there is one survivor.

PS: Alex, I have noticed you have not taken a day off. You must love what you are doing for us.

Jeri,

Boxcar is in a Maiden Special today. It's the 3rd race at Phila Park and goes off about 1:12.

Not thrilled that he pulled the one post again but we'll see what happens!

Re: Bluegrass Cat. Friar Tuck, thanks for the update. So glad his injury is not as bad as some. He had a lot of supporters yesterday. He looked great, full of spark, maybe an upset in the making at saddle up. Amazing he ran as well as he did in the stretch. Good for you, BC! Wishing you quick and comfortable healing and a happy retirement.

Wishing Barbaro ANCC (another comfortable cast change) and good news from the X-Rays. And a few days of well deserved R&R for Dr Dean as he closes in on 53. -- Susan in Saratoga (chilly and drizzly here today.. suggest something warm to wear if you're coming to the track)

Keeping my fingers crossed for Barbaro's cast change. Can't wait for the update.

Sorry to hear about Bluegrass Cat but very happy that it wasn't worse. I was so torn watching the race yesterday. I was yelling for Bernardini and Bluegrass Cat!! They are both great horses (but I am still partial to beautiful Barbaro)

Have a great day everyone.

Hope the cast change goes well today, Bobby. Just be good and do as you are told. Will be thinking of and praying for you (as always). Much love.

Joyce

Regarding cast change today:

On July 18, Doc changed Barbaro's cast and the bandage on the laminitic hoof in the sling. This is quote from July 18 news release from NBC:

"Both cast changes were performed with Barbaro lightly sedated in a sling. He has adapted very well to being managed as needed in the sling. ?He is a very intelligent horse,? said Dr. Richardson."

So, I hope today, it will be the sling again!

He was really late out of the gate!

Leslie,

I love your mantra but who is Ernesto??
Inquiring minds want to know!

Grow Hoof Grow!
Shrink Tumor Shrink!
Go away Ernesto, Go away.!
Fuse Bones! FUSE!

Hiya, Bobbey. I hope that your cast change won't be a lengthy procedure. Please know that I'll be on pins & needles to read the results of your radiographs. Here's to fetlock fusion for you, sweet prince. Our hearts go out to all the people in Lexington. Namaste, everyone. I've been up & down Versailles Road hundreds of times in my life while growing up in KY. Truly a lovely place, so many verdant horse farms there. Hugs, pets, & "scratches" to you, Bobbey, from your pals in CT - Robyn, Brent, & Nikita

Thanks Shelley - We Will be watching for news AND most especially that all are safe.

It is early out here in California and I see now that my schedule will be a bit changed - must stay around and do as much as I can around the house in order to follow up on cast change.

if you want to see the Travers again go to
NYRA then click on video and it's the last race
in the selection
God Bless Barbaro
God Bless YOU

Geez, Dr. R had said he was leaving the cast on til early September...

But now I'm thinking he meant cast, any cast, generically.

I'm feeling TOTALLY optimistic that Barbaro is going to have a smaller, lighter cast today!! Then, everything off by early Sept. (or maybe just a light brace).. Only concerned about anesthesia..

Just got home from church and thanked God for all Barbaro's healing and progress, and prayed for Mike Rea and Fog, for their complete recovery.

Blessings to all.

Barbaro, I hope all goes well with your cast change today.

Blue Grass cat will have a wonderful life at Winstar Farm. My husband and I visited the farm for the second time last October. We had to see one of our favorite horses, Distorted Humor, sire to Funny Cide, Flower Alley, Commentator and Sharp Humor. The staff is just wonderful!!!

While watching the news of the horrible crash, the area brings back memories of our wonderful trips there. While watching the news they are showing the farm near of the crash and of course I can see horses grazing. When first started to watch the news, I first thought of keenland and calumet farm which is close to the airport. The blue grass country so beautiful. Those of you that live there are so lucky.

George Washington came in 3rd...he made up 9 lengths after his slow start and losing 4 lengths, but Godolphin's Caradak won.

Mick Kinane seemed to have a tough time settling him.

But all came in safe!

Sorry to hear about the plane crash in Lexiington. Prays for all involved.

Will head over to light candles for a successful cast change.

Also, will pray for all horses racing today and hope for a trip to the winner's circle for Round Pond. (She's a beauty!)

Barbaro, good luck with your cast change today. I am a bit surprised because Dr. R did say in the interview with the vet from CBS, the cast change wouldn't be for a few weeks since everything was going so well. We are all wishing you well with your anesthesia and we hope the x-ray on your right hind leg, reveals continued healing. Also, if they take a closer look at your left hoof, we are counting on continue regrowth, sweet boy.

Sorry, you won't be grazing today but it's wet outside so we need you to remain inside where it's warm and dry.

**Please** what does non-displaced fracture mean for Bluegrass Cat? What does that mean? How is that treated? Can anyone answer for me? Thank you!

So sorry to hear about Bluegrass Cat. He is a real beauty and ran his heart out. You are in our thoughts, as well as Lost in the Fog, our dear Bluegrass Cat. We love you!

Daphne
P.S. Alex, thank you for the update, as always.

Good Morning Barbaro,

Be assured that prayers, good wishes and positive energy surround you as you are having your cast changed. Dr R and Michael will take good care of you. Will anxiously await the update from Alex, letting us all know that you are doing fantastic.

Alex, Thank you so much for letting us know what is going to happen this morning so that we can send extra prayers, good wishes and positive energy his way. Do you know if they are going to change the cast while he is in the sling?

Lost In The Fog, continue all that you are doing. You are in the beginning of a new miracle and we are all there for you. Thank you, Mr Aleo and Mr Gilchrist for giving him the chance to live.

Good Morning All Barbaromaniacs, what an awesome group of folks.

Sharri

Good morning everyone,

Hopeing the radiographs done during the cast change show good progress, particularly in the pastern area.

Prayers to those affected by this awful tragedy in Lexington.

Has Barbaro made friends with a goat or is that just chatter?

After reading the comments, maybe Barbaro will only require light sedation, which is great!!! One less thing to be concern us!

Daphne

After reading the comments, maybe Barbaro will only require light sedation, which is great!!! One less thing to be concern us!

Daphne

Has Barbaro made friends with a goat or is that just chatter?

Thank you God for Dr. Richardson, and that he clearly hears Bobby's voice!

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

Precious Barbaro:

We are praying that all goes well for you with the cast change today. I know they will have to use general anesthesia to be able to check everything out carefully. Please have a safe recovery, and continue to heal. We love you so much. You are our "Horse of The Year" always.

I'm so upset about Cat - hope he is gonna be ok - poor baby - he ran such a good race. Well - onto the ladies for him!!! He'll make beautiful babies!!

Barbaro - hope all is well with the cast change - if Dr Dreamy hurts you - just nip him a good one!!! XXOO and SCRACTCHIES.

Aunty Sally

Maid M comments that the day after Barbaro's last cast change (which was done in a similarly propitious climate) he was led out to graze for the first time.

FOB: Can you conjure a dob on Jazil?

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

HURRAY!! CAST CHANGE OVER WITH AND DR. R IS HAPPY.

Beverly - Dr Anderson said last week when she was there for a grazing session that he took great interest in a goat he saw upon returning to the ICU.

Me thinks the interest was one sided - like with the mare that was there not long after his admission in May.

Sounds like cast change was done in sling?

THANK YOU SO MUCH ALEX AND THANK YOU ALSO TO PETER.

FEEL MUCH BETTER NOW

To Judy Walker:

RE: Ernesto

He was a tropical storm, now upgraded to a hurricane.

Jo...Mary posted that you left the group. Hope it was not something that I said yesterday. Wish you would come back. We will all miss you.
Lynn

Barbaro, praying for a good cast change.

Believe in Miracles
Believe in Barbaro

Ro & Brady

Barbaro...Good news on the cast change!! Did you watch the Travers yesterday? I know you would have beaten Bernadini. I thought of you the whole time I was watching the race and wishing you and Edgar were running. Poor Edgar he had so much trouble with his horse.
Stay strong my beautiful Boy!!!

Yes that's good enough for me for now too!
Thank you Alex and Peter
If Dr R is happy, I'm doing a happy dance!

Sheeesh, my ISP was messing around, and I was not able to see the latest post.

If Dr. R was happy then I am

Ro & Brady

Well Ernesto seems to be coming my way - say a prayer it goes else where - like just goes away!!!

Thank God!!! We can all breath now!!Barbaro you are a true champ.

Keep the Faith

Alex..that's what they told me about my finger when my dog broke it. I think they called it a non-displaced spiral fracture...it was very pretty, but very painful!

Barbaro you did GREAT!!!! now go and enjoy some carrots and stud muffins.

Good luck Round Pound!!!! We were think of driving to Monmouth but the weather forcast doesn't sound to good. Stood in the rain for Flower Alley's win and it wasn't too pleasent. We will cheer you on HRTV.

Thank you God! Well done Steed!

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

Mr Boxcar is racing at Philly park today a little after 1PM - be sure to watch - he is one of the favorites!!!!

Cast change done already? WOW!! I don't think I got any more grey hairs with that one! lol

So happy that everything went well and the Doc likes what he saw :-)

Barbaro - cast change went well - so glad to hear about it. Hope you feel well enough to go outside for some grazing later!!! XXOO and SCRATCHIES.

Aunty Sally

PS - I think my Fantasy Football team looks pretty good - no players named Barbaro - I looked!!!

I seem to remember that Dr. R. said in an interview that there would be no more cast changes for a few weeks because Barbaro was doing so well. Is my memory wrong there? I hope this is a routine change , but it doesn't feel routine this time , on Sunday and on Dr. R.' vacation ?? A I being a worry wort? I hope so.
Guess I have to try to stay positive. With all the prayers at the vigil yesterday, he has to be alright. Please God.

I am so sorry for the disaster in Kentucky. I pray for all the victims, and their loved ones, and all concerned.

Thanks Alex , for all you do.
Love and best wishes to Mike Rea today.
Love and best wishes to Barbaro, and hope it is done in the sling. That would be great !!

awesome news. thanks, alex.

maybe the cast was just too itchy and Barbaro begged Dr Dreamy to change it so he could get a good scratch!!! I'm sure thats what it was all about. Can't you see Barbaro groaning with pleausre as the doc gives him a good scratch on that leg?? I remmeber when I got my cast off and I think I scratched it for hours - it felt so good!!!

Good Morning Barbaromaniacs!!!!
A cast change for our dear Barbaro.... Did we not hear from Dr. Richardson at one point a couple weeks ago where he said that Barbaro no longer was being sedated for the cast changes? That because of Michael's great training, the team was able to perform the changes with Barbaro in his stall, using security or stabilizing straps around him which are anchored to the wall. It seems to me that these comments were appearing during the same time that Dr. R. was saying how smart Barbaro is, how he had adjusted to what needs to happen for his recovery, and that Barbaro had figured out the procedure that was to be followed. Anybody else recollect this? Or do I REALLY need more coffee?

Thanks Alex for all you do for us! I forget so often to say my "Thanks" to you.
jan

Cast change complete. Great, Great, Great!!!!
Let's pray Barbaro is all right, and has a happy recovery. Hope it was the sling this time.

Dr. R. is happy with what he saw. More greats. I had wondered if the walking more would bend or break the screws so this check making the doc happy is really good news. Thank you God. Greg we need to pray more of your prayers !!

Thank God for a good cast change and good report! Way to go Barbaro, Dr. R and all!

Thanks for the speedy report, Alex...we can all spare the Tums and enjoy the rest of the day!

Friar Tuck...Maid M has a very calming effect at times like these! :-)

THANK YOU for the clarification on the fracture ALEX and for ALL the important INFO TODAY ....as always YOU'RE SIMPLY THE BEST !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

NOW....SWEET BOY....HOOOOORRRRRRAAAAAYYYYY !!!!!!
ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL CAST CHANGE.....words cannot express my HAPPINESS for YOU CHAMP !!!!!!!!!!!!!
RELAX and ENJOY the remainder of YOUR DAY .. It's SUNDAY day of REST!!!!!!
GROW HOOF GROW.... I LUV YA BOY !!!!

LORD WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED MIRACLE that is BARBARO !!!!
WATCHOVER BLUEGRASS CAT and HEAL HIM...
BLESS MIKE WITH A FULL RECOVERY !!!!!!

PEACE and LOVE to ALL
ENJOY YOUR DAY !!!!!

Cast change completed - Dr. R happy.

What more can we ask?

Thanks Alex - details can wait. The bottom line is all it takes for me to be KVELLING MIT NACHAS over this. LIVING PROOF OF THE LIVING TRUTH.

I hate hearing about plane crashes - I last flew in 1982 and have no intention to ever fly again. Everybody has their own "thing" that they want to avoid at all costs, and for me, it's fire; ergo my refusal to fly. My heart goes out to all who didn't make it and all their loved ones.

At least BGC will get to retire. Wonder when the mishap occurred and why it took so long (overnight) to manifest. Is the pain-killing effect of adrenaline THAT strong?

Hoping that LITF lives to be another shining example of a happy horse living out his days among friends. One day at a time.

HOPE PEACE LOVE & MUSIC - CJ the craziest catlady (Blackie's Mother & Pleasure's Aunt) in Hammond IN, f/k/a CJ of T Bar J

Case for Bernardini is closed

does anyone wat to respond to this (sic) reporter?

Good Morning Barbaro! I'm just back from Mass and lit another votive candle for you - it's in the bank of votives burning in front of the Holy Family.
Now am especially praying that the cast change goes well and that everything is healing and looks good to Dr. R - will be thinking of you especially all day. Give Dr. R an extra nuzzle. My heart beats for you, Barbaro!! I BELIEVE!!

Thank you, Alex, for all the updates, and oh Alex you of all people need never apologize. I know you LOVE what you do with all the horses (that comes from your heart when you write), but we know you do a tremendous amount of other things, too, and I wondered if you ever have a break! You have gone above and beyond here. As you say it, Alex, CHEERS TO YOU, TOO!!
We finally had drastically needed rains last night and it is one of those mornings that would be great to stay in. I'm happy for the updates and news whenever you have the time to post them, Alex.
BLESS YOU YOUNG MAN!!

Wonderful news regarding Mike Rea!! I can't think of anything more therapeutic than being closer to home and Fair Hill!
Has to be "The Barbaro Effect" plus all your hard work and determination, Mike! Prayers and candles continue!

One of you fine ladies I believe said "Praise the Lord and pass the carrots!" That is perfect!!

Healing thoughts, "scratchies", & a kiss on your fine nose, Barbaro! Will check back later to see how you are.
Lou Ann, Pennsylvania

Great News about Barbaro and the cast change!!

Thank you Alex for the quick update! We won't have to worry about this all day.

Love you so much, Barbaro.

Love,
Daphne and Pee

Jan ...you are correct ...no need for more coffee unless you need it and want it as I DO !!!! Was glad to read your post of that info again because it nice to have it REFRESHED !!!!!

FORGOT...LORD please watchover FOGGY and if you could give us JUST ONE MORE MIRACLE....THANK YOU LORD...........

Oh thank God! Cast change already completed and Dr. R pleased - yes, Alex, those words were good enough for me, too! THANK YOU & PETER FOR LETTING US KNOW! Enjoy your day, Alex!
Lou Ann, Pennsylvania

Do they use full anesthesia to change the cast?

Great news for Barbaro!

Very upsetting for Bluegrass Cat, no wonder he fell back like that. I hope he has a great, long life at stud.

I had to work last night and got in early this morning. I was reading the comments and saw that some of you were talking about the horse (sorry cant remember the name) that had to be saddled in the stall. The one that they brought in his pony. They really didnt bring in a goat! Kenny Mayne is a real jokester. So he was just going with it. I recorded the racing and if he would have had more time, he would have had chickens, cats, dolphins and bears in with him too. LOL I would like to add that there really are horses that have goats as stall mates and such. The Sopranos even had their race horse Pie Oh My have a goat as a stall mate on the show. trivia over.

A big THANK YOU GOD!

I have to say with all of the bad news I was worried.

My prayers to the crash victims. I was in Lexington a few weeks ago. The people and city are wonderful.

Also glad Bluegrass Cat is safe!

####

Jo (UK)

That's why we keep her around the forest. Her info is usually pretty good...

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Laura in Key West,
My mare has a goat next to her in the pen. She scratches it's back and grabs it by the horns over the fence..just too funny to watch!!
She LOVES her goat!

It was so sad to hear about Bluegrass Cat. I was really pulling for him yesterday and he gave Bernardini a good race until almost the end. Fortunately, it did not end tragically.

Our Prayers to Him as Well,

Melissa Harden

Barbara Kerr
I just read the article. I will certainly respond but must calm down a bit first so I at least sound sane.
Thank you for posting.

Maribel
Thank you for confirming...... There is so much greatinformation on this site, that at times I wonder about my memory!

Oh-what-the-heck, I'm making fresh coffee.......
To celebrate, of course!!!!
jan

My understanding in human terms is a non displaced fracture is a break in the bone. But they remain in line--there's no shift in the alignment. If the bones had shifted then it would be displaced similar to Barbaro's dislocated fetlock. (note--I said fetlock not the smashed pastern bone--that is now fusing).

Obviously if the bone had broken through the skin it would be a compound fracture and far more serious in terms of infection and other complications. But this is NOT THE CASE here.

It's probably something similar to Charismatic who was on stall rest for several months following the Belmont in 99.

I suppose this means that Bernardini gets HOY now. I can't think of another horse that has any kind of chance against him. Grrr. Barbaro still gets my vote and always will. Wish we could have a say in end of the year honors.

My best to BC's connections.

Michael's Miracle

Margaret

ALEX ...I didn't look but I would imagine that if that is what you saw...re BGC .....that IS what YOU SAW and you are probably possibly CORRECT !!!!! I missed the walk up....I agree with CJ ...how stronge are the effects of adrenaline?????? Adrenaline BEFORE the race started???????? GOOD QUESTION.....

"The following was posted in the comments directly after the race by Susan E (updates: 56 timestamp: 10:41pm)

Very impressive, Bernadini!

Everyone made it home safe!

Did anyone else think BGC was a bit stiff in his right rear leg when he galloped out? Maybe I'm seeing things that aren't there.

Apparently you were not "seeing things"."

I wish I HAD been "seeing things".

Can we add BGC to the candle/watch list?

BARBARO--a cast change today! Your buddy Doc Dean is happy! That makes your Maniacs happy.

Keep doing what you're doing, brave one.

I almost 'resisted the temptation' to come back out of retirement (and I didn't even injure a pastern, simply had to finish some Paperwork -perhaps you can *realte*, J. Carson Black?)...I will NOT, however, resist the temptation to 'get too political' here (ref. Leslie MN post). US did NOT 'take a bad step' here, Leslie; US is taking a very proper step, and actually, all in 'good time', i.e. before it was ABSOLUTELY REQUIRED. The only problem, if there is one, with the *step* at present is that media, which behaving as a monolith, Chose to 'keep a lid on' Bill Clinton's Lie, cannot now explain to US (the people of US, that is; the leaders do finally understand) what is actually going on, and what, as a Nation, we are actually Fighting. Media cannot say that they Lied, because they are in business to be Believed, and if they can't be believed, they'd be ...outta business... -many in fact, have left.
Clearly demonstrated since Sept. 11, 2001, is that US is in the right War, and we are in the right War in time to Win it, for the Long Haul... Actually, you could even relate the Whole Picture of How All This Started to the Belmont and what most agreed actually happened there. The CA nadian horse struck Barbaro *from behind*. It is Perfect Allegory for what has happened, and for what continues to go on, at least for the moment, in the current world situation. A few are working to Right This WRONG. With all your prayers -for fine horses, polar bears, plane crashes, hurricanes and the like, you might Pray that they SUCCEED. The world -precious, fragile, rare- FULLY DEPENDS ON THEIR SUCCESS. So don't consider for an instant that Barbaro 'took a bad step'. Barbaro's 'bad step' is a Picture of a Moment of Grace, GIVEN, while WAY IS FOUND. Blessed Sunday to you, †KAWilson

Lynne,
I bet that is just precious to watch, I have seen some very close goat/horse relationships. LOL But I dont think there was a goat in the stall yesterday, that Kenny Mayne is a card to say the least. I love the guys on TVG, they crack me up. Apparently they have been told to knock it off too by the producers, but I hope they dont, I find them quite amusing.

SORRY ALEX...I guess SUSAN E SAW that re BGC
STIFF is STIFF ....no matter WHO SEES !!!!

Barbaro - so glad you've had ACN and I'm so very, very happy to hear that Dr. Richardson is happy with your latest cast change. You're a true CHAMPION! You're intelligent and do what you need to do to get better. Still saying prayers for you, which will never stop. Enjoy the sun on your back and eat the fresh grass as you graze outside on your daily outings. Cooper sends you a truck-load of get well "woofs" and we both send you luv, hugs and scratchies.

Sylvia Mason - Keswick, Ontario, Canada

Susan E - good catch on noting BGC appeared "off" - ever consider a horse-related career? A good eye like that is surely an asset. CJ in Hammond IN

Yes, Alex, you are absolutely correct with the "nondisplaced fracture"!! Nondisplaced means the bone had not moved from its proper anatomic position. At least for people anyway (am a medical transcriptionist); though I sure wouldn't mind taking dictation from Dr. R!! (Oh wow!) Big smile. Lou Ann, Pennsylvania

thanks, jeri. obviously the reporter wasn't aware of the fact that bluegrass cat didn't have a chance to compete fairly. go gettem'

Ok, I have one window open for Monmouth Park live feed, and another open for Phila Park live feed. I am all set for Mr Boxcar and Round Pond!!!

Great to hear that Barbaro is doing great and the cast change went well. We had that Vigil, so it HAD to go well.

Thanks Alex,

That's great to know, !! Onwards and Upwards!! Yeah about Mike Rea getting moved closer to home also!! Have a great day everyone!

Roseann

Greetings Barbaromaniacs, Barbaronation, the lurkers and the one and only Carrot Posse.

Soooooo very glad, as we all are, that Barbaro had another comfy night. The fact that he is on pain meds the equivalent of a few aspirin is amazing. But, we know that Bobby is an amazing horse to say the least.

###### Well as you know family, I just got back for my sister in law's wedding at the Dupont County Club. And as fate would have it, we have had 23 days of sun up to yesterday, and it drizzled and was overcast the entire wedding. However Joann's radiance outshined it all. Her new hubby Jim is a lucky guy.

Now it is time to nurse a 12 beer, chicken dance, electric slide hangover.

I think I NEED SOME ASPIRIN!!

Much love to Bobby and to all!

Jazz

Wow - Go out for an hour and a half and a cast change happens so quickly, I didn't even have to worry about it....

Sorry to hear about Bluegrass Cat - I hope all he needs is stall rest, that he heals up quickly, and enjoys the girls..Great eyes, Susan E.

Bobby: While Bernardini ran a nice race, you remain the story...Hope you enjoy your graze today...

GROW HOOF GROW!!!
SHRINK TUMORS SHRINK!!!
HEAL BLUEGRASS CAT!!!
KEEP UP THE GOOD PROGRESS, Mike R!!!!

Lisa in Colorado

WHOEVER SAID IT...BERNARDINI against NO ONE for the............?????

Yay! I'm so glad everything went well for Bobby, and that Dr. Richardson is pleased!

Alex, Wow! I can't wait for further details on the cast change. Thanks. It is good news.

WE BELIEVE IN BARBARO !!!!!
WE BELIEVE IN MIRACLES !!!!
WE BELIEVE.....

Maribel - I'm talking about the adrenaline a critter (including humans, for that matter) manufactures naturally within its own body, not anything administered from an outside source. The endorphin effect from the adrenaline, I believe, is what is in play. The horse being a prey animal whose running is genetic, manufactures a certain amount of adrenaline just in the act of running, and the extended run involved in a race would produce quite a bit, I reckon. I'm just speculating why BGC would have appeared "sound" after the race but show up lame the next morning. Could this be due to the pain-masking effects of adrenaline he self-manufactured in the course of the race???

Hope Peace Love & Music - CJ the craziest catlady (Blackie's Mother & Pleasure's Aunt) in Hammond IN, f/k/a CJ of T Bar J (Elgin IL)

XXXXXXXXXXXX
I purchased Laura Hillenbrand's book for the story of Seabiscuit, and would very much love to know more about Gallant Secret & Ruffian, any recommendations?
I can hear the awe and respect when several of you have mentioned their names.
Thank you! Lou Ann, Pennsylvania
XXXXXXXXXXXXX

Jazz...Would have loved to see you do that chicken dance and electric slide.
your new friend that feels bad for being a witch!
Lynn

Wonderful news about Bobby's cast change....a million thanks to Dr. R. for taking such good care of him. The miracle continues.

I too, thought there was something "not right" with BGC yesterday, I am so thankful he made it through without tragedy when it so easily could have happened. Now he will have a great life with the ladies when he heals. I still thought Bernardini was impressive although I don't think he had a tremendous field against him knowing what we now know about BGC. But Congrats to him and all of his people.

Bernandini is a good horse, not great. The ONLY horse racing in that race worth anything was Bluegrass Cat. The others were unknowns....that is the only way Bernadini wins.....Geez, do ya think Bernadini's folks had anything to do with that one too? Barbaro suffers a very similar, but more devastating injury racing against Bernadini in the Preakness - rumor has it, his Sheik/Dubai owners had a conspiracy to injure Barbaro (which he was indeed injured). Sheik has a dream to win the US racing circuit, now, Bluegrass Cat, a remarkable horse, even coming in second in the Kentucky Derby to Barbaro, gets a leg injury....are you kidding me? Racing folks can't help but think something was done to him in the barn the night before or morning of. The Sheik has been sued before, look it up on the internet (Darley Stables included) for conspiracy...

Good morning Barbaro! I'm praying for wonderful things to come out of your cast change today! Be still when Dr. R puts his magical hands on your magical leg!! You are such a special boy!

So tragic about the plane crash in Lexington. So sad. God be with all involved.

So sorry to hear about Bluegrass Cat - beautiful animal - Off to the pretty fillies for you boy!

Congrats to Bernardini, a very special racehorse, for sure. I hope the rest of his career is super. Maybe he was sent to take over when Bobby couldn't race anymore. He's definately good for horseracing. But, oh what races B vs. B would have had?!?

I don't think there is anything Bernardini, Lava Man, etc. can do to take any luster off of our Barbaro. Everyone knows what an amazing racehorse Barbaro was, but he is soooo much more than Horse of the Year. Bobby is the ambassador for all horses, everywhere. Every day there will be more wonderful stories and happy endings because of the influence of Bobby. He is still running his longest race. We will all keep running with him.

Keep on keeping on Lost In the Fog! You are so special, too.

Have a beautiful Sunday , Barbaro. Love you boy, and all your "people" too!

Alex,
you are correct about the nondisplaced fracture.

Good luck to BGC. He will have a happy life.

Bernardini has no real competition now. Anyway BARBARO has done the most for racing this year and for years to come.

I was wondering about the goat chatter, too. thanks for clearing that up.

Horrible about the plane crash. Prayers for all involved.

Lawyer Ron took the $250,000 purse in the St. Louis Derby last night. Came from off the pace to win by about a length. He sure is a beautiful chestnut. In bright light he has that coppery sheen.

I wonder about night racing. It seems it would be extra dangerous to me. Am I off the mark?

How could I have forgotten my sincerest healing wishes for Foggy boy. I am really pulling for him.

Very glad to hear the good news about the cast change. Keep up the good work!!

Sorry to hear the news about Bluegrass Cat :-( That was the horse I was rooting for yesterday - I just like the name better than Bernardini. But Bernardini did look VERY impressive. How cool would it have been to be able to see him and our boy running neck and neck in a big race? Of course, our Bobby would have won easily ;-)

Hope you have a wonderful, relaxing Sunday dear boy. I am sending you all my good thoughts and love that your recovery continues.

AMAZING:
This is not the place for your conspiracy theorys. Tim and Alex have provided a place for us to comment on their blog. Please take your theory somewhere else. We love Barbaro, but it was an accident of racing. Nothing more.

Laura,,,,you folks need to wake up and realize that this world is not all carrots and cakes and ice cream and vigils, there are folks involved in some bad stuff in the horse racing circuit. I was directed to this site from someone on here daily who feels the same way....you are right, I am out of here and one day, perhaps you and the rest of this site will see the truths about Bernadini....

I saw BGC change just after the final turn for home, just something was not right, and when I saw the jockey pull him up and they zoomed in on BGC, he was pointing to the pony person or outrider (couldn't see whom) and then pointing at his horse. He just did not move right afte that..

sorry to hear but glad it was not a complete break, I really admired this horse, and watched him race since he first started. May he heal and sire many horse with his speed and looks

Say a quick prayer and thoughts to Mr Boxcar today.. May he break his maiden and come home safe..

The track is SLOPPY there..

Bernardini ran the Travers in almost the exact same Time as Barbaro won the Derby. What a great race it could be IF ONLY....

There is an advantage to living on the West Coast by the time I get up all the waiting for updates on (((Barbaro))) are over. Whew..

I am so happy that the cast change went well. The good Dr. can now go on vacation and relax.

Thank you ALEXander the Great. :):)

troll alert.

######
Amazing,
I do believe that there are underhanded dealings in racing and all sports involving big wagering.

We can only hope that the perpetrators are caught and removed from any involvement in the sport and their records should not be allowed in any "hall of fame". If the Sheik's had convictions before, then these coincidences should be looked into if only to clear his name.

People talk about putting Pete Rose in the Baseball Hall of Fame, but what he did was wrong and cast a shadow over his sport for a very long time. No Way!

Best thing to do is IGNORE, scroll on by and DO NOT acknowledge posts like that. We win by doing so as they do want the attention.. don't give it to them!!!!!!!1

Thank you for the update about the cast change.

God Bless and protect Foggy and Barbaro!

Chris Byers (my fellow Pittsburger) Your post from last night touched my heart....thank you.

Great news about the cast change, we will take whatever good news we can get. Thanks for the update.

Wow, it looks like Mr Boxcar is going swimming today!!! I hope he likes it!

Lawyer Ron took the $250,000 purse in the St. Louis Derby last night. Came from off the pace to win by about a length. He sure is a beautiful chestnut. In bright light he has that coppery sheen.

I wonder about night racing. It seems it would be extra dangerous to me. Am I off the mark?

I also wonder what "grabbing" the track means????

Good luck to Boxcar and Shelley!

GOOD LUCK Mr Boxcar!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yipes - my heart skipped a beat when I saw "cast change" since I knew one wasn't planned for a while. Glad to hear it went well and I'll hope for more detailed news later. I'm so pleased that Lost in the Fog's owners and vets are trying their hardest for him. It just amazes me what vets can accomplish these days - amd it's about time, too! Our companion animals deserve all the bext we can give them.

Are the Travers and the Derby the same distance?

Jazz...I'm glad you had fun!

"Now it is time to nurse a 12 beer, chicken dance, electric slide hangover"

Sounds like a hangover worth having!!! LOL

Good to hear of a good cast change. Keep on healing Barbaro, one day at a time! Glad things look good. We need to continue to say prayers for LITF. Hoping for tumors shrinking...
So sorry about Bluegrass Cat. (Susan E., good eyes!)So glad it was non displaced and sounds like it will work out OK. Will add him to prayers and light a candle for him.

Have a great day everyone!
Thanks Alex, as always!

Go Barbaro Go!!

Nancy in Va Beach :)

Hiya, Bobbey! So glad & relieved to hear that your cast change went well. Re. the goat: I think someone said you were looking very curiously at a goat who was grazing in a nearby meadow one day earlier this week. Robyn, Brent, & Nikita (she's the sleeping Husky on the sofa!)

Regarding conspiracy....everyone's got one. My step son thinks the government has a spy system set up in everyone's home TV sets.

Hiya, Bobbey! So glad & relieved to hear that your cast change went well. Re. the goat: I think someone said you were looking very curiously at a goat who was grazing in a nearby meadow one day earlier this week. Robyn, Brent, & Nikita (she's the sleeping Husky on the sofa!)

Sarah Yup. Both are a mile and a quarter

###

Shelley A said that when he was younger and it rained he loved to play and roll in the mud, hope it will be the same with running!!!

Go Boxcar, may you run safe and break your Maiden

If you want to watch him run (post time 1:12pm

go here : http://www.philadelphiapark.com/video/index.html

Sarah LOL please let's not give the nuts any more new ideas.

Hahahahaha thats a good one, though.

Geez. Can't believe I typed Lost in the Fog. Sorry, Foggy! Obviously I'm the one who's lost!

I am quite aware of what goes on,(in some circles) like I said THIS is not the place for your theorys. Now get lost.

Good afternoon everyone-

Just wanted to let you know -
if you would like to help out in a phone campaign for the anti-slaughter bill HR 503, go to:

forums.delphiforums.com/timwoolley/messages

look under anti-slaughter issues for the 12:36 pm post. We can get you the name and D.C. phone # for your congressperson if you need it...

Barbaro Effect in full force!

Christian and Edie

###

Lynda: :-D

###########
Sally, saying a prayer that Ernesto will fizzle out or miss you. Stay safe, please.

Anyone add a group yet for Bluegrass Cat? I don't know how to start a group; a bit challenged I am!

Thanks,
Nancy in VB :)

They are just now running the second race, in fact in a few minutes now. I dont think the third race is going to get off at 1:12

A candle group i mean for BGC

####Sarah, There ARE government spy systems in our TVs! I found mine and removed it! LOL

###

Sarah, some people think that there is a spy mechanism inside the eye of Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill. They claim to have found it by sticking the money in the microwave. The money blows up in the area of one of the eyes.

Thanks Nancy.

###

BARB: LOLOLOL

###

Lynda: LOLOLOLOL

####

Mish--did you go to the STL Derby last night? I was wondering about those last post times too.

Shelley's baby is next!!! Is it very wet there or is just live streaming making it look like that?

I would assume there is a chance that the horses would spook at all the extra shadows caused by the lights, but other than that I dont think there would be a problem. Just stick a shadow roll on the horses and all is well (I think). Notice all of MM's horses wear shadow rolls. I guess it doesn't hurt to make sure they don't spook!!

Its very wet and rainy. Its going to be like that at Monmouth I am afraid, too.

Shelley A's jockey just brough in Gale Storm to win in the second as Philly. Hope he does as well in the next race!

####Mary, I'm on the link...Go Boxcar!

1:17 post time for Boxcar's race

Post time now 1:17 eastern for Boxcar's race

Lynda.....great minds thinking alike...keeping us informed...!

Did you see how muddy those jockeys and horses were after the 2nd race?? OH and the jockey that will ride Boxcar just won on the 2nd race!! I hope he rides Boxcar as well as he did Storm!!

I hope they all manage to keep their footing, Lynda! Do they have shoes that can be fitted with studs in these wet conditions?

Nope, it is really "wet" there, rained all night and moring, so the track is sloppy and muddy.. Your video is showing the true conditions!

Here's a report on George Washington's race while we're waiting...

"George Washington could manage only third as Caradak benefited from a strong Frankie Dettori ride to run out a narrow winner of the totesport Celebration Mile.

Godolphin's charge was involved in a protracted battle with runner-up Killybegs but fought bravely to deny the Barry Hills-trained colt in a thrilling finish.

Aidan O'Brien's 2000 Guineas hero George Washington was slowly away and held up towards the rear before finishing strongly, but never looked like overhauling the first two.

River Tiber fulfilled his role as pacemaker to George Washington by setting a furious gallop throughout the early stages.

He opened up a considerable lead on his five pursuers entering the home straight but those exertions inevitably took their toll and he folded entering the distance.

At that point, Dettori pushed 6-1 chance Caradak into a narrow lead over Killybegs (50-1) and the pair engaged in a rousing battle to the line.

Killybegs lost little in defeat, only going down by a short-head, while George Washington, who was very keen in the early exchanges, found his stride late on to claim third.

Mick Kinane was determined to try and settle O'Brien's three-year-old in the rear before asking him to stretch out inside the last couple of furlongs.

Having taken a while to find top gear, he caught the eye once switched towards the stands rail and saw out the one-mile contest strongly.

Dettori told BBC Sport: "They went slow for the first bit but then the pacemaker went a bit too quick and I used him as a target.

"I really expected the two good horses (George Washington and Soviet Song) to come through at the furlong marker, but I realised when I had a quick look that they were a good bit behind, so me and Michael (Hills, on Killybegs) made the best of it to the winning post.

"I must say he is a tremendous battler, he really gets his head down and tries."

O'Brien insisted he was happy despite the reverse of the 5-6 favourite. "We had the pacemaker in there just to make it a consistent, true gallop but they chose not to follow him obviously," he said.

"We were hoping they would follow him and George would follow the field.

"When Mick let him down he said he was very rusty and it was only in the final furlong that he got going.

"We were delighted and we'd much rather him have been finishing than not finishing.

"He did have a lot to do but we wanted him to be settled and enjoy his race and we couldn't be happier, other than he didn't win."

GOOD DAY BARBARO!
We're so happy that everything went well with your cast change! Day by day our sweet boy, day by day. Wishing you another pain free day and the warm sun on your back. God speed our Champion.

ALEX,
You've done so much for all of us here and it's soooooo appreciated! Thanks for all the updates and also keeping us updated on Mike Rea and His family. Take care of yourself, hope you're not coming down with something. Wishing you a wonderful day.

SHELLEY A -
Good Luck today! Wishing Boxcar a safe trip!

God Bless,
Debra, WI

If you all remember they said that about Gallant Secret "it's not life-threatening"

Let's all pray for a safe run for Boxcar, that track looks really wet!

Jo, they can put mud calks on their feet to help with traction.

Hey I just saw Boxcar!!!

Quote from Lynn:

"Jazz...Would have loved to see you do that chicken dance and electric slide.
your new friend that feels bad for being a witch!
Lynn

Posted by: Lynn in Austin, Texas at August 27, 2006 04:16 PM"

Thanks Lynn and you remind me of the Good Witch of the East from the Wizard of Oz. Very beautiful, powerful, yet loving and caring.

Now if someone can turn the chicken dance music off in my head.....

Love to all

Jazz

Hey what number is he?

Wow, Boxcar is BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!!!!!!

Good AFternoon, Team Barbaro!

I just got off the phone with Mrs. Martha Forntney - Gallant Secret's connection. Had a lovely conversation with her and got some insight into Gallant Secret - she loved to race...always came from behind. When the races were being filmed, she would never be in the picture until the race was winding down...Mrs. Fortney would have her heart in her throat every time she watched Gallant Secret. She is also a proponent of Polytrack and horse safety. I am so honored to know her and to get some more insight into Gallant Secret...a lady who loved to run like the wind...even when injured, she would listen to the sounds from the track.

I could tell she is very affected by Gallant Secret's loss. I didn't want to discuss it too much for concern of upsetting her (and me...)Mrs. Fortney is lovely to talk with and I do want to keep in touch with her. If anybody wants their address, let me know. (lyn.gilbert@gmail.com)

Anyway, Shelley, have healing light around Boxcar for a safe race...glad your trainer is OK. Heard on CNN that there is one survivor of the plane crash in critical condition...will check later for updates.

BCG - am glad you're OK - now you get the easier life. Just take it easy, let the bones heal and then you can be with the ladies. Am so thankful you'll be OK.

LITF, have a great Sunday, my Long Time Sun.

Barbaro, thank heavens the cast change went without a hitch. Shine on, you crazy diamond. Alex, is he under any sedation/tranquilization at all? I had thought it was minimal...either way, he is such an intelligent horse, he's used to all of this by now. I pick up such a feeling of trust from him - trust in Michael Matz, trust in Dr R., trust in Edgar and Eduardo (and Messaging)...and its so beautiful. Just beautiful.

To the people who are taking riding lessons in the 50's - I'm 54 and believe me, I understand where you are coming from. I never thought in my wildest dreams that I'd be on a horse again...and here I am on Windy, working with "the boys" and with Avi...go for it.

Anyway, everybody have a great Sunday.

Healing and Peace,
Lyn Gilbert

I just saw him--Boxcar! This is o-so exciting!

Jazz...LMAO!!!

I only see one grey horse and he is the even money favorite. Is that Boxcar???

Boxcar's the grey...number 1! He's looking gorgeous!

Good luck Boxcar!

WOW HE IS THE FAVORITE!!!!!!!! GO BOXCAR!!!!!!

That's him Lynda!!!! :-)

Lyn,
What a lovely story about Gallant Secret.
Thank you for sharing.
Lynn

I'm dying a thousand deaths here!!!!

NOW HE IS 6/5!!! STILL THE FAVORITE!!!!!

####Jo, You'll live through it!

THEY ARE LOADING IN THE GATE!!!!! BOXCAR JUST WENT RIGHT IN!!!

Help!!!

my media player just conked!! Who won!!!!

Margaret

That was a great run by Bernardini yesterday, and if anybody had to 'pick up the pace' in another form of race -because, yes, Barbaro's Race has been WON, and his Race is altogether Different from Bernardini's -anyway, I'm really glad it was a fine horse with such a Fine Name. And it is interesting -re HOY idea, if you look up Bernardini, you'll find that, just like Barbaro, there's a grand old Villa in Italy, with his name on it! Could be a year for two horses of the year-and Foggy, withal... Ciao! †KAWilson

boxcar came in 4th

Come on Boxcar!!
Margaret

LOOKS LIKE HE GOT 4TH

That was fun. Boxcar did just fine!

Boxy--home safe ! The entire field, safe!

What a sloppy, sloppy track.

Fourth is good...as long as he's safe...

Healing and Peace,
Lyn Gilbert

Boxcar is safe phew!

He started to make that move and got pinched some. He is a fine looking horse, I feel like a proud Aunt. LOL

He looked funny breaking from the gate, and it looked like he tried to veer in in the stretch. gonna need to see the replay.

Great News! Boxcar home safe! Thanks Susan E.

Looks like he wanted to go ot the front and got boxed in and jockey had to take him out to the outside, lost some ground

Congratulations to Shelley and Boxcar - So glad he is safe.
He has a great future in store for him

Thank goodness Boxcar and the other horses are all safe. Did you see the state of them though?

Glad all the horses got home safe.

Boy he did veer in. that stopped his momentum. It looks like he may have been pinched at the start, but its hard to tell without a front view.

Laura and Mary, I saw that too. Wonder how he would have done if that didn't happen....but he finised fine, great maiden race, especially considering the track!

Nancy in VB :)

Hello everyone,

Did ShelleyA's horse Mr. Boxcar take 4th in the race? I missed watching it live by minutes but watched the replay and it looked that way to me.

Thanks
Janice

He is just a baby (2) and he looked a little confused there towards the end - didn't know if he should move in or not. Sure is a cute horse - love his coloring. Glad they all came home safely. That track was very scary!!!

#####

I am so excited - Boxcar did take 4th.
Congratuations Shelley - I told you he would make you proud.

BoxCar - you are great!!

Janice

A late "good morning", like Alex I needed a little time today :)

Mike Rea, wonderful news! Bobby, praying your cast change is another positive step down that path through the woods. Hope you get to graze outside today (it's raining here in CT) and continue to heal bone and grow hoof!

Good luck to Round Pond and all racing today!

##########
Susan E.,
Yes, I did get to see the STL Derby live and in person last night. It was my race to get there on time. Made it for the 7th race. Derby was the 8th of 10.

It was very exciting to see that caliber of horse at Ole Fairmount Park. Also very good to see the huge turnout--at least 10,000 people. Maybe we've proven we can support better races, at least on occasion.

Lawyer Ron looked calm and collected in the paddock. Very hot steamy night (85* and humid), so lots of frothy sweat on the horses even before racing. His action on the backstretch? (terminology) looked really odd to me. His head and tail were held pretty high and he really seemed to be picking his feet up high. He settled toward the turn and made a nice move to win.

Was really hoping to get to see Lemonade Kid run, too but he was a scratch.

Very glad to have seen it.

Just saw the head-oh shot. When Boxcar broke from the gate he veered pretty sharply to the his left, the jockey had to brink him back. Then in the stretch he veered to the inside, jockey had to check him there. Just needs more seasoning!!!

Where could I catch a replay of Mr Boxcar??????????

Precious Barbaro:) Praise God that you had another comfortable night and that your cast change went well. May our Father bless you with another day of healing, free from discomfort and no more setbacks. Amen

Lost in the Fog:) Praying for another day of healing from our Heavenly Father and alot of shrinking of those "terrible tumors". May He keep you free from discomfort and give you a positive recovery. Amen

Barbaro Team:) I hope you guys have a pleasant and peaceful day. May our Father bless you and your family with health, happiness and peace.

Praying also for Mike Rea that our Father will continue to make his road to recovery a positive one filled with lots of healing.

Barbaro Team:) Just some "food for thought": I was able to watch the horse races yesterday (with squinted eyes of course) and I also know that our Precious Barbaro would have continued his winning streak if he had not been injured.

But this was not meant to be because our Heavenly Father had other plans for our Barbaro. If things would have been different and Barbaro won the Triple Crown and any races after that, we would not be where we are today. Barbaro would have had his part in all the glory that goes with winning and would have left his mark in horse racing history.

If that would have happened, nothing would have been done for: creating safer race tracks, the end to the slaughtering of these magnificent horses, and advancement in "horsey medicine" to give horses that breakdown(I really hate this word) a chance to survive as opposed to being euthanized. It was in God's plan to bring us all together thru Barbaro to make these issues manifest and make us realize that in this world that is filled with so much chaos, fighting and hatred to name a few, there are still people left in this world that are willing to help each other thru a magnificent creation of God named "BARBARO".

Thanks for letting me voice my opinion and as always, I will never get tired of praising and thanking our Heavenly Father for:
"THE MIRACLE OF BARBARO".

Jeanette Cavalier

Yea, something happened right after the start, and again as he was coming down the strecth.. Something bothered him.. I hope he is okay.. He loves to be right up with the action, like his last race.. Praying it is noting but he got confused...

NOT STRICTLY HORSE RELATED, BUT...Good luck to everyone down there. Let's hope Ernesto chanes his mind and blows out to sea.

"CNN) -- Ernesto became the first hurricane of the 2006 season on Sunday and is forecast to hit central or northern Florida by Thursday morning.

Hurricane Ernesto had top winds of 75 mph at 8 a.m. ET, with higher gusts, according to the National Hurricane Center.

An advisory from the hurricane center said conditions in the Gulf were "highly conducive" for the "rapid intensification in the near term and for the potential development of a major hurricane in the longer term." (Watch where Ernesto is likely to hit -- 1:03)

Earlier fears that Ernesto might barrel toward New Orleans, near the anniversary of Katrina's landfall, were eased with the latest advisory, but it was bad news for residents of central and northern Florida.

Ernesto is now forecast to make landfall as a major category 3 storm on the coast of Florida, move northeastward and still be a category 1 storm well inland.

A tropical storm watch may be issued for the western portion of the Florida Keys sometime Sunday, according to the discussion notes issued by the hurricane center.

Just how powerful the hurricane becomes will be "highly dependent on the exact track that Ernesto takes due to land interaction with Haiti and Cuba," the center said.

"If Ernesto doesn't linger over Cuba for more than 24 hours, then major hurricane strength seems likely" by Thursday or Friday, the hurricane center said.

As of 8 a.m. ET Sunday, the storm was centered about 115 miles south-southwest of Port au Prince, Haiti, and it was moving at 9 mph toward the northwest, the center said.

Hurricane Ernesto's center should "pass very near" the southwestern tip of Haiti Sunday afternoon or early evening and be near Cuba's southeastern coast Monday morning, the hurricane center said. "

Mish I am not sure. Look at the Philadelphia Park Website Philadelphiapark.com and see if they have race replays.

####

Mish, thanks for the in-person report. I would have loved to have gone! I hope you're right and that this is the start of bigger and better for Fairmount. I need to go see some races there.

there is a website specifically for replays - don't know the name of it but saw it somewhere.

I have looked on Racereplays.com for Phil. Park and its not there. I am sure its somewhere, but to find it and not have to pay for it is something else.

Someone asked about a good book about Ruffian - there is one - it is called "Burning From the Start". I can't tell you name of the author as my copy is loaned out to a friend. It is an excellent book and includes background stories on her jockey, trainer, groom, etc.

Debbie from SE PA

I know there is a place to get the replay but think you have to pay $3 or more to get it.. I tried to record it as it was playing and the dang thing did not work for me.. boooo hooooo.. That or this old kick in the butt, want to toss out the window at time laptop I have.

Jazil (d.o.b. 02/11/03)

I guess everyone already knows this, but for new readers the Derby,Preakness and Belmont Stakes were all won by horses wearing the Number #8
Barbaro (d.o.b. 04/29/03
Bernandini (d.o.b 03/23/03)
Jazil (d.o.b. 02/11/03)

I am reading that Book of Ruffians.. GOSH I LOVE IT!! holding myself back from reading it to fast, was sent to me by a very nice person I met from here.. you get into that book and feel ike you are part of the action.. RECOMMEND that book!

Author of the book (ruffian) is Jane Schwartz

Bobby
So relieved your cast change went well and that Dr. R. "liked what he saw". I pray the new cast is a good fit for you. Hope you can still go outside today.

Alex
Thanks for keeping us updated. Can you find out if it was done under general anesthetic???

Shelley
Glad your baby Boxcar did well and is safe and sound.

will be back close to when Miss Pond runs

Sorry I can't find it either.

At any rate, BIG CONGRATS!!! to Boxcar & Shelley.

Did see the conditions and thank goodness he is done for the day and safe!!!

######
FOB,
I DID notice that, about the #8 being the number to have this year.

BARBARA KERR--here's my comment for that writer:

Barbaro was pulled up 100 yards into the Preakness because of injury. Bernardini went on to win.

Taking nothing away from Bernardini, does all of his REAL competition have to be injured in order for this horse to win so impressively?

Are there NO 3-year-olds with early speed left in this country to take on a front-runner left to dawdle along for a half-mile in :48 and change? No one was going to catch him from that point on, even without an injury. Which makes Bluegrass Cat's race in the Travers even more impressive. And don't forget, Barbaro beat BC twice.

Wasn't it the consensus that this year's Derby field was the best in years? If so, Barbaro beat the best field of the year. Where are all those competitors now?

People win awards all the time for sentimental reasons (Paul Newman should have gotten numerous Oscars, but they finally gave it to him because he was getting older, was still giving outstanding performances, and was the sentimental choice that year.).

It's Barbaro, not Bernardini, that has shined a light on this sport this year, resulting in:

- raising awareness of the fragility of Thoroughbreds (and thus the need for improved track safety)

- raising to nearly awesome the respect for veterinarian skills and accomplishments (there's hardly anyone who owns a pet who wouldn't do almost anything to save it if he/she could, so this is an issue that hits home for a lot of people)

- raising the bar for Thoroughbred ownership (what the Jacksons have done is nothing short of inspirational)

- raising hell over slaughtering horses for food (wait until Congress takes that issue up again in early September if you want to see animal lovers take action)

- raising to an unprecedented number, the column inches devoted to contrasting the differences between greedy, overpublicized, arrogrant human athletes and the nobility of the Thoroughbred, who runs because he's bred to run and who asks only for food, water and shelter

- raising public consciousness over the qualities of a true athlete--grit, determination, and the ability to overcome obstacles.

Bernardini may win the "race" for the 3yo championship partly because it is common every year for people's memories to fade once the Triple Crown is over and, just as with every other aspect of life, it's "what have you done for me lately." I just pray, along with so many others, that Barbaro continues to keep his name in the headlines because of his continued successful struggle to win the most important race of all, the one to live.

What's ironic is that, for those writers who ponder the impact of Barbaro, their continued focus on him does keep him in the spotlight. Or, as one wag opined when he wrote that he couldn't understand "all the attention paid to a horse" and then asked me, how did you find out about my column?, I had to chuckle when I replied, "if you mentioned Barbaro's name, then you are partly responsible for 'all the attention paid to a horse.' Google misses nothing :)"

Bernardini may indeed be a great horse. But Barbaro has done the most for the sport. Nothing can take that away from him.>>

And just a non-related P.S.--I used to go to school and live in Lexington. My heart breaks for those on the plane. BlueGrass Field is right in the midst of horse country. I pray there were no additional victims.

Go Bobby, go Foggy!

##########

Sally in Key West

expect a Hurricane Watch to be issued tonight at 7 PM I havent gotten any news from the county yet, since its Sunday I guess thats why they are waiting. But I will let you know.

The first line was missing in my post:

We've just learned that Bluegrass Cat was injured in the Travers. Bernardini pulled away from an injured horse to win.

Sorry about that...

Hello Everybody

Alex, as always thanks for getting so much information to us.

Barbaro, keep on getting better. We all love you.

Does Monmouth Park have live streaming? Big Daddy Wolf is running in race 4!

Thanks Laura - I heard the news - yeehaa - another damn hurricane. If you hear anything from the county - yes - please let know. Either here or email me. I spoke to the boss and she said we would finalize our plans tomorrow at the office.

GROW HOOF GROW
HEAL LEG HEAL
SHRINK TUMORS SHRINK!!!!

Amen to Jane

####
FOB:
Thanks. George Washington?

Speaking of #8, Maid M snorted: You'd think those astronomers would have considered that 8 is the number assigned to powerful, transformative, regenerative Scorpio -- ruled by Pluto, the now downgraded dwarf planet -- and thought twice.

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Almost time! GO WOLF GO!!!!

Sally in Key West...
My family has a condo in Destin. We have been hit several times in the past few years..geez..i hope it misses you and us!!!

I just don't understand all of the negativity being thrown at Bernardini. He did not cause Barbaro's injury, nor did his connections. He IS a great horse.

Does anyone remember the 1977 TC that Seattle Slew won?? The same things were said about him, that he didn't win over any 'great' horses, that he was just lucky to be foaled in a year of mediocrity, etc. I even read one article in which the writer stated that a 'cheap horse like Seattle Slew should never be considered for HOY'.

Why can't we love Barbaro and Bernardini? If Bernardini was injured in his next race would we care?

Personally, I don't give a damn who gets HOY. I only pray that the horses survive their careers.

Tired of the Bernardini bashing...I'm outta here, at least for now.

########
To both Sally & Laura in Key West

I just heard on the news that all Florida Keys tourists were told to evacuate. It's mandatory.
Ernesto is supposed to weaken slightly then pick up power again and then nobody knows what it will do after hitting Cuba. The preliminary tracking shows it cutting across Florida I know that although I'm not in the Keys, we've had our share of hurricanes too and I'm not looking forward to this.

Janice

Janice - can't remember if you are on the west or east coast. Whichever - you need to be careful as well - look what Wilma did to the east coast crossing over the mainland!!

may Ernesto fizzle out quickly, harmlessly.

DRF is reporting that Dan Mallory of Meadow Haven Farm in Lexington was killed in the plane crash today in Lexington.

He was on his way to the Fasig-Tipton Sale in Texas.

Prayers for his family and connections.

CJ...I realized that....HOWEVER Susan E is saying ...if I read it correctly and I might not have....I'm OLD....that she noticed BGC stiff when he "galloped out".....I assumed she meant "OUT" to mean ...to the START ??? That would mean he was feeling something prior to start of race which explains his fade in the last quarter.BGC ran a very good DERBY but BARBARO was BETTER !!!!!BGC is a talented horse ...I AM VERY SAD TO SEE HIM RETIRE but GLAD HE IS STILL WITH US !!!!!

GOD BLESS YOU BLUEGRASS CAT.....
May the LORD watchover and PROTECT YOU !!!
WE BELIEVE !!!

PEACE and LOVE TO ALL

Jane in CT -- beautiful response. I think you speak for all of us.

My heart goes out too, for the people around Lexington. My boss lives in Frankfort and I have professional colleagues that live in Lex., it is beautiful. Last week we had an all day offsite at Churchill Downs in my company's suite....

I believe that because Bernadini beat a small field, including one very injured horse, the race is just about moot., but that is just one Barbaro lover's opinion. It certainly will throw another monkey wrench into this year's eclipse and breeders awards ceremonies.

####

Sally & Laura in Key West,

Be careful you two. Know that we're all thinking about you. Be safe.

Sky

I agree with the issues about Bernandini and other horses, I LOVE horses, all of them. I don't think less of them for winning or losing. Bern is a good horse, gosh I am impressed with him and have been a fan of his also. I do not think less of him because he won the preakness and our barbaro could not because of his injury. I would have loved to see both of these horses run together but that will not be. I still love Barbaro and rally for him, and watch his progress. But will that mean I can not care about other race horses??/ No way, I still watch, i still am in awe of the power Bern showed in his races.

I do not give a HOOT who gets horse of the year, all these horses are great in their own ways. Just like our Barbaro, I think we all have enough caring and love for all the others to cheer them on and see them win/lose or just look great. I hold no ill will at any horse. Just should not be the way, and I am sure Barbaro would feel the same way.. Keep on supporting the others still racing.. YOu just will not know what tomorrow will bring..

JAYNE in CT....Barb Kerr is right ....that was very well written and articulated about Barbaro!!! Is there anywhere that could be sent??? It clearly defines ALL THE REASONS our BARBARO deserves to be HORSE OF THE YEAR!!!!! The powers that be need to read that........
ANYWAY....THANK YOU SO MUCH for OUTLINING ALL THOSE IMPORTANT FACTS FOR US.....IT WAS TRULY APPRECIATED !!!!!!!!!!!

WE BELIEVE !!!

ALEX or ANYONE WHO KNOWS.....where can Jaynes info be sent for HOY ?????

PEACE and LOVE TO ALL

I just came on here and I am reading about a cast change, a plane crash involving horse people, a hurricain and that Bluegrass cat ran yesterday with an undetected injury.

Alex, thank you for keeping us informed and updated.

Mary...thanks for the great post. I feel exactly as you do about all the great horses! Love them all!

I'm with you all. Love all horses!!!
That's what brought me here and why I am still here!

Nancy VB :)

Glad Bobby's cast change went well. Have a great day Bobby. I love you very much.

Guys, I do think Bernardini is a wonderful horse. True, his main competition in the Preakness & Travers were/had injuries but all his races on TV that I have seen, he had been powerful, running on the lead, coming from off the pace. That can't be denied. He has won I believe three million dollar races. Could it be perhaps that he's so much better than the competition (minus Barbaro of course) that no one can run with him. Recall that Secretariat won the Belmont by 31 lengths. Is that because all the other horses were not good? No, it's because he was a super horse, a "tremendous machine". We will know a little more about Bernardini's talent when he faces older horses in the Jockey Club Gold Cup. He will face Invasor, probably, and Invasor will not melt when Bernardini looks him in the eye. Neither will Lava Man if both get to the Breeders Cup.

I don't think people should be running down Bernardini, racing needs a superhorse, multiple super horses in fact. I choose to look at it as Bernardini is just carrying on the torch that Barbaro started. Bobby got hurt, Bernardini just happened to be in the same race, and now it's Bernardini's turn to represent the 3 yo division.

HOY (Horse of the Year) will be voted on late this year. I'm sure it will be a tough vote for top 3yo because Bobby dominated the 1st half of the year & Bernardini dominated the 2nd half. Bobby will always be my HORSE OF THE YEAR. He's winning the most important race.

Kim

mary l -- the post from jane in ct is a response to a story that ran today on yesterday's race, that's all. did you read the article, it's in an earlier post of mine today?

Joyce, I agree with you about Bernardini. People, stop bashing him! He's a wonderful horse that has done nothing wrong. Who he beats or doesn't beat has nothing to do with our love for Barbaro. Nothing can EVER take that away! Bobby is a great racehorse champion, and more important, he is a champion for all horses!! Why can't Bernardini be given the respect he deserves, without people thinking that it takes away from Bobby? Do I think Barbaro would have won the Triple Crown? YES! But, he's running a different race now, and he's WINNING! Can't we all just be happy about that?

Just an opinion - Love you, Bobby, and all your "people", too! Judy

I agree with Joyce Moore. I've been here since day one, because of my love for Barbaro and ALL horses. ALL of them deserve our respect and love. Whether they are famous or not, win or lose. Just as long as they survive their racing careers and live a good life after retirement.

THANKS KIM...I'll definitely be looking forward to the Jockey Club Gold Cup....Bernardini...Lava Man and whatever happened to JAZIL and who knows anything about the GREEN MONKEY??? Thought I read somewhere that he is a 16million dollar horse????? ANYBODY HAVE ANY INFO......

ONE THING IN COMMON WITH ALL.....
OUR LOVE FOR BARBARO and ALL HORSES !!!!
WE BELIEVE!!!!

PEACE and LOVE

May Bluegrass Cat live a long and happy life bring a stud.

If we read that Bernardini had some freak accident like poor St. Liam I know we would all be sobbing right now. Pray that never happens.

Jane in CT - Word. Beautiful writing of Barbaro's legacy, and the fat lady hasn't even started to sing. Please consider bringing your ideas to a wider audience. Never occurred to me that two of Bernardini's wins were against strong rivals w/ fractures.. and both in the RR no less. I don't see this as "Bernadini bashing" just telling the story of sports. It's human nature to compare competitors. There is enough to go around -- appreciation and respect -- for both horses. But if there was a Nobel Peace Prize given to a horse (hey, why not) Barbaro would be on the cover of Time in no time. Maybe he should be anyway - any body know the editor?

#####

Sally, Laura in Key west -- get yer you know whats offline and start packing! We want you safe. Don't forget your computers to stay connected. -- Best wishes, Susan in Saratoga

Barbaro you keep showing us grace, tolerance and perseverance.

May all the horses make it home safe today.

###
Sally And Laura,
I hope you'll both be safe. I am a former Miami girl who "danced" with Andrew. Ernesto que sin berguensa eres, vete de la Florida.

Maribel

The Green Monkey has some sort of minor problem and is out of training right now. I don't think it's anything serious, just the usual two-year-old things that come up with young horses.

Yes, I do love Barbaro very much, I love all creatures, especially dogs, horses, and hummingbirds.

Kim

My understanding is that after the race the horses are gradually slown down. That is what is meant by gallped out.

Before the race would be a warm up.

The "breakdown" probably occured somewhere at the head of the stretch because it looked like BC was coming on and then all of a sudden Bern took off.

The important thing to note is BC is going to be okay. He suffered a career ending injury not a life threatening injury. He suffered a NON displaced fracture. Much like Charismatic in 99.

Michael's Miracle

Margaret

Susan E.,

When you said that BGC looked stiff in hind leg I totally believed you, didn't question it. You have a good eye for lameness in horses, not everyone can see that. I learned how to look at a horse's gait and it took a long time for me to see slight lameness, it would look so slight but could really be bothering the horse and if ridden could lead to bigger problems.

Racing is hard on these little pups! It's such an exciting sport - wish there was a way to alliviate this problem.

Like the idea of Barbaro being on the cover of Time Magazine. Secretariat was on the cover of Time, Newsweek, and Sports Illustrated all in the same week during his TC run in 1973.

I can't help but wonder if Polyrack or one of the other artificial track surfaces would have prevented The Cat's injury?

Happy Retirement to Bluegrass Cat!! I hope & pray his injury will heal without surgery -- just as long as he is okay. Healing prayers BGC!! We love you & Bernardini too!

Great job with the cast change today, Bobby! I imagine it's raining at NBC today like it is here. Have a relaxing day and know that we're thinking & praying for you! I'll check in again later Big Guy. :>)

http://www.wunderground.com/tropical/tracking/at200605_model.html

here are the latest computer forecast models for the hurricane. i live in miami now, and have already stocked up last month on water, batteries, peanuts and red wine (requires no refrigeration)....let's hope no one gets a direct hit and it's' just a tropical storm.

Barbara you are too funny - peanuts and red wine - no canned goods or crackers or any other food?

I buyt peanuts, red wine and canned goods, bread, etc.

So sorry to hear about Bluegrass Cat. I hope he goes on to live a long, happy life. Was I seeing something else yesterday? It looked to me as if he had some places rubbed off on his side as they were loading him in the starting gate. Maybe it was just the way the sun hit his coat or maybe it was another horse. I don't have a way to go back and replay the race. After hearing about Bluegrass Cat's injury, I thought about seeing those places yesterday and wondered what they could have come from. They reminded me of Barbaro's place on his hip from the grafts, but these were around the shoulder, neck area.
Also, has anyone ever heard anymore about Brother Derek? Last I heard, he was shipped home after the Preakness, and they decided not to run him in the Belmont. I honestly never paid another bit of attention to the race after Barbaro was hurt and don't even know how he finished. You just never hear his name anymore.
Continued healing for Barbaro
I do BELIEVE.

KIM..THANKS for the update on the GREEN MONKEY..

LOVE OF ALL HORSES.......
THAT IS WHY WE ARE HERE and CONTINUE TO BE
BROUGHT HERE BY ONE ...VERY SPECIAL HORSE !!!
BARBARO !!!!!!!

WE REALLY DO....BELIEVE !!!!!!

BLESSINGS ...

Hello Bobby! I was surprised to read that you have had a cast change. I had thought Dr. Dean was going to leave the old on for a couple more weeks. I do hope everything is okay, Champ. I worry about you when surprises like that come along.

I hope you have a great day, and of course I'm sending you much healing light and energy.

Be well, Precious Boy, and stay safe.

I love you - Mary

Hello Bobby! I was surprised to read that you have had a cast change. I had thought Dr. Dean was going to leave the old on for a couple more weeks. I do hope everything is okay, Champ. I worry about you when surprises like that come along.

I hope you have a great day, and of course I'm sending you much healing light and energy.

Be well, Precious Boy, and stay safe.

I love you - Mary

#####
sally -- rasins are good too. yes, triscut crackers and velveta.

lmao

Holy Smoke....I just saw a couple of pix of Dynaformer from the Three Chimneys link.

I've never seen a picture of him before. He is HUGE, plus they got a thing that covers his mouth so he can't bite anyone. It reminds me of Hannibal the Cannibal's mask.

sarah = where are the pics?

Glad to hear that all is well following your cast change today. If Bernardini goes on to win Horse of the Year, I'll not be envious or begrudging........for you will be Horse of the Millenium!!!! Let's give Bernardini his props for he ran a great race in the Travers.

I love you and hold you in my daily prayers, Sweet Barbaro.

###
Sally:

Pix of Dynaformer were linked in a message on Tim's Forum...here's the link to the message where you will, in turn, find the links for the pictures.

http://forums.delphiforums.com/timwoolley/messages/?msg=412.1

LOL, poor mare!

So happy to hear of the good cast change.

Go play with the girls Blue Grass Cat - you deserve it - thanks for the wonderful ride

Sarah,

Did you read that Dynaformer bit part of one of his groom's fingers off?

Hi Bobby! Sounds like the cast changed showed a positive sign on the right leg! You just keep showing everyone what a true champion you are. I love you so much big boy! So glad that Blue Grass CAt was not seriouly injured.. Congrats on your retirment BGC! Looking forward to following your sons and daughters in the future.

Yes, Bernardini is great horse but just how great because obviously that 7 1/2 to 6 1/2 lengths no longer should hold since bluegrass cat was unfortunately injured during yesterdays race. I do hope the writers take this into consideration when they vote.

It is soooo sad all the tragedies in racing this year with all the big names - St. Liam, Lost in the Fog, Barbaro, Bluegrass Cat, and the list goes on. May God bless all of you.

GREETINGS, BARBARO NATION, BOBBYHEADS, BARBAROMANIACS AND "THE ANNOINTED ONE!"

Dear Bobby ... So glad to read that you had another successful cast change earlier today. You are a model patient and you are growing stronger and healthier every single day!!

I just finished reading all of the comments from Saturday and I haven't read any of today's yet. I purposely refrained from coming back to the site last night because I hadn't seen any of the races yet (taped them) and didn't want to spoil my own anticipation and enjoyment knowing that there would be lots of comments here about it ... and, of course, there were!

First of all, Congratulations to Bernadini! Yesterday's Travers proved that he is a great horse with a lot of spirit, charisma and talent ... just like "his brother", Bobby. So, even though I was rooting for the "Cat" all the way, we now know that there was a reason that 'Cat had a real challenge yesterday. And in spite of the injured hind right pastern, he still ran a very gallant race and still came in 2nd behind Bernardini! That, alone, deserves an award for courage and bravery all of it's own.

By the way, just as a side note of interest:

Bernardini
Bluegrass Cat
Lost in the Fog

They all can claim "Secretariat" as their Great Grandfather! Lots of stamina and heart there, so not at all surprised by their diverse and varied accomplishments and challenges!!

As far as 'arguments' about who is better or more deserving between Bernardini and Barbaro, I completely agree with the wonderful posts yesterday from Chris Beyers at 12:38 AM, Lorraine at 3:05 AM and Judy Bonin at 5:20 AM, all August 27th.

There is no need for comparisons between these two or any other horses. They are ALL great champions in their own right and for their own reasons. What's done is done and none of that can be changed. But we can (and we should) relish, revere and rejoice in every single horse who wins a race and crosses that finish line safe and sound. Remember the great line in "Seabiscuit" ... "It's not in his feet ... it's in his heart!"

Well, in my opinion, these horses ALL have tremendous heart ... Bobby, Bernardini, Lost in the Fog, Bluegrass Cat, St. Liam, and on and on and on! They are, at the very least, leaders without stain or embarrassment to us as a nation ... they are not out for blood and glory at any cost ... they are not out for money or greed. They are doing the job that is their God-given talent, and they all deserve our applause and acknowledgment.

So, if Bernardini gets "Horse of the Year" ... Congratulations to him because he deserves that honor, depending on what happens between now and 'then.'

Congratulations to "Bluegrass Cat" for running an incredible race yesterday in light of what we all now know about his own conditions.

Congratulations to "Lost in the Fog" who continues to fight gallantly and valiantly against ALL odds ... no greater fighting spirit has emerged alongside of Barbaro! They are true Champions of the Heart!!

So, how about nominating Barbaro for "Horse of Humanity" ... yes, I did say 'humanity' ... because this four-legged 'being' and spirit has done more for the spirit and awareness of HUMAN BEINGS than any 'one' or 'thing' in my lifetime.

So, when Oscar time rolls around next spring, how about giving Barbaro the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian of the Year Award!! Why the hell not!! And His Royal, Thoroughbred Pedigree Highness can be 'escorted' to the Red Carpet not in a limo but by the most magnificent Horse Carriage ever seen. He will proudly 'draw' that carriage right up onto the red carpet, dismount himself and do a slow, purposeful and very proud canter with his braided tail aglow right down the Red Carpet and into the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles. He will collect his Award to a thunderous standing ovation from the beckoning crowd, sitting in their Versace and their Vera Wangs and their Armanis and their Botox-injected faces and he will turn that place on it's ever-lovin' ear forever! His standing ovation will last an incredible 20 minutes, nonstop, and he will be the very first NON-human to ever win the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the Oscars!!

Now, how 'bout them apples, or carrots, or whatever!

"Horse of the Year Award?" ... what's that???

Kathy in Va...yes, I read that Dynaformer had his groom's finger for lunch! Holy cow.

Gosh you guys, I hope you know me better than this. I am very sorry for seeminly "starting Something" about Bernadini and Barbaro.

I was feeling stressed out this morning with all the bad news. I was also still reeling from the Michael Matz interview and just...well just feeling bad for him about the Travers. I said that it is unfair to think of Bernadini like this. AND I certainly did not mean what you thought I meant on the bad step thing. WHOA! It was not IRAQ I was talking about.

I dont care about stupid awards either most of the time, but I was just contemplating that if Bernadini wins, people might not give him the credit he deserves because Barbaro is so well liked. Neither horse needs to prove anything...as some article said the other day, they are now writing two different stories in racing this year.

Again I apologize for fostering banter.

Good luck to all the folks in Florida. I have family there myself. We'll be praying for you that Ernesto fades in the backstretch.

Leslie In MN

Sally in Key West..

Here are direct links to Dynaformer's pix:

http://www.finalturngallery.com/album338/dynaformer_has_a_date

http://www.finalturngallery.com/album338/dynaformer_waiting_for_date

Did you see Round Pond's little tail-do?? Cute

Thanks Sarah

As far as HOTY goes, I agree with Mary L. Also,Bernadini would certainly deserve it as much as Barbaro. However, Barbaro has done more for the racing AND horse industry than any other horse this year or [I believe] ANY year. I have never seen anything like this. The BARBARO EFFECT has spread to every continent and brought to light so many horse issues that he will go down in history, whether or not he gets HOTY.

Good thoughts to all.

Well said, Linnie - awesome!

What a race!!! She lost it by a nostril, didn't she?

Sarah,

One would have to suspect that Barbaro got his sweet disposition from his momma (with just a little hint of mischievous nipping).

Round Pond came in second by a nose - something ws going on with her and the other horse - I'm not sure what.

I am so glad BGC let them know he was in pain. THis is one time I am glad they found a lame horse. I did not see anything strange about his walk during the post parade. But I am so biased about him. When I saw him in the paddock at Belmont, I just stood there starring at him in a glassy eyed stupor. He is so athletic looking, and almost perfect conformation. One gorgeous horse. I am grateful that they found this fracture, and not on the track. On the AOL HR board, we are always joking about Sweet Catomine's van driver hauling her off in the middle of the night. Now, when we want a horse, we just jokingly say that Sweet Cat's driver is bringing it over.

MORE ABOUT YESTERDAY'S TRAVERS STAKES ...

I was so happy that I taped the full two hours because there were things that I was able to rewind and watch over and over ... LIKE THE BOBBY FOOTAGE!! How great to see our boy on the BIG Screen, and yes, I did catch the comment about "Barbaro's WEEKLY Update!" Terrific!

I also felt the commentators were trying to be very fair and even-handed in their assessments of Barbaro, Bernardini, et al, regarding the various awards to be given. They made it quite clear that, indeed, Barbaro IS the sentimental favorite, and I find nothing at all wrong in that statement, given that they already know that he's a champion from his prior racing record all the way up to his Derby win. They are fully aware of his accomplishments, but what they mean is that he is the sentimental favorite NOW because of his injuries. That's a very fair assessment, in my opinion. They went on to say that the writers' are responsible for the voting and they are NOT particularly sentimental, so if it comes down to sheer performance based on what Bernardini has done and will (or will not) continue to do, then their voting results will be based on his achievements on the track. Again, a very fair assessment in my opinion.

Anyway, I loved watching all of the coverage ... and I rewound what I wanted to see more than once and it was terrific ... For those who commented on why ESPN broke away from a piece between Jeannine Edwards and the Sheik ... I don't thin that was intentional ... there may have been some kind of 'glitch' that we weren't aware of and they had to break away quickly and so they went to a sports update. They did, however, go back to the full and complete interview that Jeannine was doing.

I was very 'nervous' watching Minister's Bid and his very feisty self before the race and then even in the gate when Edgar had to dismount while they calmed him down. This horse had his mojo going for sure and I was concerned .... Thank goodness all came home safe and sound.

Another quick observation which has already been stated ... there was absolutely no heavy whipping of Bernardini whatsoever by Castellano yesterday. All I witnessed was trust and mutual love between horse and rider.

I also want to thank Barbara Kerr and J Carson Black for their very knowledgeable and astute comments about the usage of the whip in racing. It still bothers me to see it occur on any level, but I know that's part of the sport.

TWO QUESTIONS REGARDING THE WHIP AND THE SHANK (STUD CHAIN):

What is the difference between LEFT-HANDED WHIP AND RIGHT-HANDED WHIP? I see a lot of mention that a jockey will LEFT-HAND the whip ... what's the difference between the two?

Also ... I saw yesterday that certain horses were really "having their chain yanked" and it 'felt' very painful to me. Do these horses feel pain when that shank is tugged on? And does it matter WHERE the position of the shank is regarding the amount of discomfort or pain? I'm referring to across the nose, under the chin or inside the lip. This one horse yesterday (might have even been Minister's Bid) was being yanked terribly hard, and all I could think of was a lot of pain being felt.

leslie, no need to apologize, in my book, that's what ideas and discussions are for. it's an emotionally-charged subject. and alot of speculation. personally, i agree with you that if the nod goes to bernadini, there will be a backlash, and vicea versa. (I can never spell that correctly).

thank you for your good wishes, am stocking up on my velveta cheese spread now.

Congratulations to Michael Matz - a real gentleman - for Round Pond's VERY close second in the Molly Pitcher...quite an accomplishment since when she came to MM for training he discovered that her shoes were several sizes too small...no wonder she's been off with a "foot injury."

Linnie, I use a stud chain only when necessary. I don't believe anybody wants to hurt the horse. The way I look at it is, it's me or him! He weighs over 1000 lbs and nobody wants to get hurt either. I've seen TERRIBLE injuries to humans when the horse is out of control. The least restraint is the best, but for safety, sometimes you need that control.

linnie -- the ewhip is used to either make horse move away from it (if the jockey is using the left hand whip, the horse should move out away from the rail, going slightly right), ssame way if the right hand whip, will drive the horse left, towards the rail. it is also used to ask for a lead change on the turn into the home stretch, can anyone explain the weight shift/dynamics of why a lead change for linnie other that it gives them a "fresher" pace to run on? i think that's right.

as for a shank, it's used as a training aid also to let the horse know when they need to get back in line, if they start to drag you all over the place, act up, and yes, it can hurt, nothing major but sometimes you have to let them know who is boss. or bossette.

Hi Everyone..

Lynn,
You have a really good eye...didn't think you'd see from that view but you're right.

Boxcar veered into the rail when he broke. Jose brought him back but he was stuck and had no where to go. He got knocked around a bit so he took him to the outside but lost ground and we couldn't catch up.

Jose said he didn't seem to mind the mud in his face but that his "greenness" was the problem today along with that one post position again!!!
He got the "dreaded" one position in both of his races.

Luckily, he seems to have come out of it okay. The track was awful

QUESTION ABOUT STAKES RACES:

I noticed that there are different 'gradings' in stakes races; I know that the top stakes races like the Travers, Triple Crown, etc. are graded GR1, but what determines or classifies GR2, GR3, etc.? I can't figure it out on my own. Is it based on the horse's talent or strictly on how much money is in the purse?

Will look forward to your replies on this ...

ONE MORE QUESTION ...

Why is there so much focus on Godolphin? I have figured out that they are another 'stable' just like LAEL Stable and they have their own group of racehorses that, apparently, come from the Middle East/Dubai, etc. But why does there seem to be so much talk about Godolphin? That's all I seem to read and see ... is it just because they are producing so many winners of late, or is there some other reason? Thanks again for your replies.

I think I'm done asking questions, at least for now!! Thanks for putting up with my inquisitions!!!

Again, thank you Alex for this wonderful site and for all that you provide for us and to us!!

Also for SHELLEYA:

So sorry to hear that Alibi didn't fare too well yesterday, but from what I read, he had a 'damn good alibi' for it! So sorry, Shelley, but there's always next time, huh???

ShelleyA, I watched the race. It was so exciting! Boxcar did just fine. I think congratulations are in order.

the grades of stakes all have "condition criteria" such as how many times thhe horse has run, what distance, dates between races and wins. For example, a grade III race could include something like..."for 4-year olds and up who have not won three races other than maiden and two allowances between (dates here).....

###

Thanks Barbara Kerr. Coming from such a knowlegable horsey person like you that means alot to me.

Hope you dont have to use the Velveeta!

Go away Ernesto! Go away! (not the nice t-shirt lady....the Hurricane Ernesto......)

Ps...I feel for "t-shirt gal Ernesto"...I have heard they have scheduled the name LESLIE for a hurricane this year....I hope we dont make it that far in the alphabet this year!)

Leslie in MN

####
can you believe they went throughthe whole hurricane alphabet and then some last year? i was a basket case.

Sarah - I checked out the photos of Dynaformer - he sure is beautiful. Hope that little mare wasn't named Clarise!!

FOR BARBARA KERR:

Thanks, Barbara, but I'm still confused by all of these conditions, just like I don't quite understand the 'allowance' races with their conditions.

Will you do this for those of us who want to know a little more ...

Just describe the criteria/conditions/determinations for a GR1 race such as the Triple Crown Races, etc. What constitutes a stakes race graded 1?

Thanks again ... I really appreciate your knowledge and information.

the grades of stakes all have "condition criteria" such as how many times thhe horse has run, what distance, dates between races and wins. For example, a grade III race could include something like..."for 4-year olds and up who have not won three races other than maiden and two allowances between (dates here).....

Posted by: Barbara Kerr at August 27, 2006 08:22 PM

When they start using the greek alhabet - you know its been a busy hurricane season

GOSH, I'M SAD TO HEAR ABOUT BLUEGRASS CAT, I REALLY LIKED HIM. OH WELL, ATLEAST HE'S GOING TO BE OK AND THEY ARE BEING SAFE ABOUT IT.

LINNIE- WE WERE JUST TALKING ABOUT THAT IN OUR AOL VIGIL- THE WHIPPING ETC... IT DOESN'T SEEM TO WORK, SO WHY DO THEY CONTINUE TO DO IT??

LOVE & PRAYERS FOR BARBARO, FOGGY AND EVERYONE,
CHERYLG
INDY

####

SALLY- I JUST TURNED ON THE NEWS, U BE SAFE DOWN THERE!!

ALSO THAT KENTUCKY PLANE WRECK KILLING 49.
PRAYERS FOR EVERYONE TODAY,
CHERYLG
INDY

Just checking Saratoga results and saw that there was a breakdown in the first race...

Dr. Doright : broke down, vanned off

Does anybody what happened to this horse? I know we never found out what happened to Jennys on the Radio :-(

http://www.jockeyclub.com/registry.asp?section=3

here's some good information on the jockey club site to get you all started. as for specifics on types of races, i'll try to find an online condition book, that has the criteria for all races, shelly a (congratulations today, btw), do you have access to online conditions to enter races that you can share?

http://www.jockeyclub.com/registry.asp?section=3

here's some good information on the jockey club site to get you all started. as for specifics on types of races, i'll try to find an online condition book, that has the criteria for all races, shelly a (congratulations today, btw), do you have access to online conditions to enter races that you can share?

OK, BARBARA ... NOW I UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LEFTHAND AND RIGHTHAND USAGE OF THE WHIP ... IT'S BASICALLY TO 'STEER' THE HORSE INTO A CERTAIN DIRECTION.

But now this brings up another question ... when it's down the backstretch, and they whip the horse to tell it to accelerate it's gallop, etc., does the horse know then why it's being used? And is that usually left or right handed or does it matter when it's being used to 'push' the horse more?

Also, yesterday I noticed a lot of "hand riding" where the jockeys just seemed to be really 'rockin' those reins back and forth and up and down ... it looked really terrific and not at all painful to the horse. Why don't more jockeys do this?

Thanks so much again!

linnie -- the ewhip is used to either make horse move away from it (if the jockey is using the left hand whip, the horse should move out away from the rail, going slightly right), ssame way if the right hand whip, will drive the horse left, towards the rail. it is also used to ask for a lead change on the turn into the home stretch, can anyone explain the weight shift/dynamics of why a lead change for linnie other that it gives them a "fresher" pace to run on? i think that's right.

as for a shank, it's used as a training aid also to let the horse know when they need to get back in line, if they start to drag you all over the place, act up, and yes, it can hurt, nothing major but sometimes you have to let them know who is boss. or bossette.

Posted by: Barbara Kerr at August 27, 2006 08:16 PM

http://www.jockeyclub.com/registry.asp?section=3

here's some good information on the jockey club site to get you all started. as for specifics on types of races, i'll try to find an online condition book, that has the criteria for all races, shelly a (congratulations today, btw), do you have access to online conditions to enter races that you can share?

#####
Linnnie,

Could you do me a favor? You said you had a tape of the Travers yesterday. I hope I'm not asking a stupid question, but it looked like one of the horses as they were loading them in the starting gate (and I thought it was Bluegrass Cat) had his coat scraped up. It reminded me of the places on Barbaro's hip from his grafts. What would cause scrape marks like that, if they were even there? Wish I could go back and look. And, someone said it was a scary moment when Minister's Bid was acting up in the gate. YES, VERY SCARY. I can hardly completely watch racing anymore. I always have my eyes half closed praying for a safe outcome.

You ask wonderful questions. I love to sit back and read the answers from all of the knowledgeable people here.

Precious, Beautiful Barbaro - So relieved your cast change was successful again. You are exceptionally intelligent and cooperative to allow it. We are all so proud of you - you are and always will be our UNDEFEATED CHAMPION. We love you.

http://www.calracing.net/fairplex/racing/cbook/TB_CB.pdf

linnie or whoever wants to learn about conditions of a race, here's an online book from pomona, in california, that talks all about eligibility per race. it's pretty interesting.

Barbara Kerr

All the tracks have their condition books on line now. Just go to the track and look under racing and you can access the condition books.
Example here is Phila Park ( you won't find any graded stakes in this one but they can learn about conditions about the different races.

http://www.philadelphiapark.com/racing/condition/2006-09.pdf

Good explanation about the whip also. I just watched my tape of Boxcar's race and when he started making his run he was taped lightly(accidently) by the whip of the 2 horse's jockey. I think that confused him cause he doesn't have the experience.

MARIBEL

Re the Cat-no, I meant galloped out after the race was finished; the warm-down. He was rolling his eyes back and looked tense, so I looked at his legs while he was running and he was holding the right rear stiffly, seemed to be putting less weight on that leg vs. the left rear. Before Barbaro, I never would have looked.

Does anyone know if BGC will require surgery?

Shelley A - here was a point where he kinda hestitated - that must have been when that happened.

Two horsemen aboard Comair - Kentucky crash

http://news.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=35051

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

Jo - that does not sound good and that is all it says.

Susan from Saratoga - can you please find out about Dr. Doright, please?

FOR LESLIE IN MN:

Leslie you posted this:

Gosh you guys, I hope you know me better than this. I am very sorry for seeminly "starting Something" about Bernadini and Barbaro.

I was feeling stressed out this morning with all the bad news. I was also still reeling from the Michael Matz interview and just...well just feeling bad for him about the Travers. I said that it is unfair to think of Bernadini like this. AND I certainly did not mean what you thought I meant on the bad step thing. WHOA! It was not IRAQ I was talking about.

I dont care about stupid awards either most of the time, but I was just contemplating that if Bernadini wins, people might not give him the credit he deserves because Barbaro is so well liked. Neither horse needs to prove anything...as some article said the other day, they are now writing two different stories in racing this year.

Again I apologize for fostering banter.

Good luck to all the folks in Florida. I have family there myself. We'll be praying for you that Ernesto fades in the backstretch.

Leslie In MN

Posted by: Leslie in MN at August 27, 2006 07:56 PM

I don't know who this was addressed to, but you posted it shortly after my post regarding this subject.

Please know that I haven't even read ANY of today's posts yet at all except for the ones posted AFTER my posts which came very late in the day. So you must be referring to some ongoing discussion here which I know absolutely nothing about because I haven't read any of today's posts earlier than my own! So, please rest easy. My post was NOT addressed to anyone in particular; as a matter of fact, I was addressing what I read on YESTERDAY'S comments overall, and nothing more

"Does anyone remember the 1977 TC that Seattle Slew won?? The same things were said about him, that he didn't win over any 'great' horses, that he was just lucky to be foaled in a year of mediocrity, etc. I even read one article in which the writer stated that a 'cheap horse like Seattle Slew should never be considered for HOY'"

Posted earlier by Joyce.

I didn't know that back in the day, S. Slew was denigrated in the press. Ha. Now he is venerated; his era is looked upon nostalgically as the lost era of the superhorse.

Seems like every season, in every sport, some athlete gets to wear the "white hat", and another gets the "black hat".

Sally,

Yes, his jockey had the whip on the right and then he was tapped on the left at the same time. I think he just was confused. It happens. Especialy with babies who are just all over the place. No ones fault.

http://www.godolphinracing.com/ Linnie, here is a site that will help you learn a little about Godolphin. They have been involved in some of the most expensive, and elite Thoroughbreds in the world. THey spend milions of $$ at the sales, and seem to have endless pockets. And some of them are very young. As for your question about the graded Stakes. THey put a certain horses ability in a class, Grade 1 being the highest. Hope that helps you a little bit. We had a newcomer to the HR board not long ago, and she ask so many questions, I finally gave her some web sites to read up on. She has made huge progress. I didn't mind answering her questions, but thought she could benefit better if she had the reading to go back to. There is so much involved in this sport it is very hard to explain it all. But there are some great books to read, and learn about. SOme of the history is very interesting, some is heartbreaking. If you would like more information, I'll be happy to help.

FOR KATHY IN VA:

Kathy, you posted:

#####
Linnnie,

Could you do me a favor? You said you had a tape of the Travers yesterday. I hope I'm not asking a stupid question, but it looked like one of the horses as they were loading them in the starting gate (and I thought it was Bluegrass Cat) had his coat scraped up. It reminded me of the places on Barbaro's hip from his grafts. What would cause scrape marks like that, if they were even there? Wish I could go back and look. And, someone said it was a scary moment when Minister's Bid was acting up in the gate. YES, VERY SCARY. I can hardly completely watch racing anymore. I always have my eyes half closed praying for a safe outcome.

You ask wonderful questions. I love to sit back and read the answers from all of the knowledgeable people here.

Posted by: KathyinVa at August 27, 2006 08:36 PM

YES, I SAW THAT, TOO AND IT WAS DEFINITELY BERNARDINI, AND I WONDERED THE VERY SAME THING ... I IMMEDIATELY THOUGHT OF BARBARO.

DOES ANYONE ELSE REMEMBER THIS AND CAN YOU GIVE US ANY IDEA AS TO WHAT IT WAS AND WHY?

THANKS AGAIN!!

Shelley
So happy that Boxcar is o.k. - you are right, he is just a baby and all this learning is confusing.

Important thing is - did he get his treats after the race.

I just spent a while reading through the comments, and couldn't tell you who wrote what because I didn't write anything down. If I did, there would be a couple of pages of notes.

Just want to throw my thoughts into this. There is no disagreement that we are all solidly in back of Barbaro as the super horse of the year because of what he did on the track, and what he's managed to get his 2 legged human counterparts to do on behalf of horses all over.

To me, the Horse of the Year honors is like the Academy Awards. Just because the movie wins the award doesn't automatically make every person's opinion of a good movie moot. And it doesn't mean that the winning picture the sole best movie of the year.

Bernardini is a very good race horse and deserves a lot of praise for his victories. No one knows how he will rate when he runs against older horses.

Has anyone ever considered that maybe a new catagory should be created for end of the year honors? Maybe something like the Thoroughbred Horse Award for Outstanding Contributions Made in American Horse Racing or the Barbaro Award. This will keep Barbaro's name and credits forever linked to greatness, and hopefully also keep the momentum going for improving the safety conditions for all TB race horses.

Happy late afternoon Mr. B. Terrific news from the cast change. Doing Good! You're always looking good.

Mik Rea wonderful news about being transferred closer to home.

LITF you've got my wishes that the Big C tumors can be shrunk, and you can live a happy quality of life.

BGC you were my choice in yesterday's race. Very sorry to learn about your career ending injury. After some TLC, hope that you'll be living the easy life.

I know I missed a lot of names, but to everyone and their animals who are not in the best of health - here's to a speedy and thorough recovery.

Edie

Chris...I watched the replay for as long as I dared and he had a really good lead, then the video froze and started again and he was right at the back of the field, his jockey jumping off of him...just like Edgar did with Barbaro.

I'd just like to know what happens to these horses...out of respect they should get a mention, apart from the dreaded "broke down. vanned off"

Please let me know if you find out anything.

THANKS, VICKI ... I was pretty much 'right' about Godolphin ... deep pockets and many successful winners. I was able to figure that out just by seeing the Sheik(s) yesterday on ESPN ... thanks for the link.

As far as the stakes gradings are concerned, again, I pretty much figured out that GR1 was the highest and only the very best horses run in those races. I was more interested in what constitutes GR2, 3, etc. Thanks so much again for everyone's help here. I really appreciate it so much!!

http://www.godolphinracing.com/ Linnie, here is a site that will help you learn a little about Godolphin. They have been involved in some of the most expensive, and elite Thoroughbreds in the world. THey spend milions of $$ at the sales, and seem to have endless pockets. And some of them are very young. As for your question about the graded Stakes. THey put a certain horses ability in a class, Grade 1 being the highest. Hope that helps you a little bit. We had a newcomer to the HR board not long ago, and she ask so many questions, I finally gave her some web sites to read up on. She has made huge progress. I didn't mind answering her questions, but thought she could benefit better if she had the reading to go back to. There is so much involved in this sport it is very hard to explain it all. But there are some great books to read, and learn about. SOme of the history is very interesting, some is heartbreaking. If you would like more information, I'll be happy to help.

Posted by: Vicki Jasch at August 27, 2006 08:52 PM

THANKS, VICKI ... I was pretty much 'right' about Godolphin ... deep pockets and many successful winners. I was able to figure that out just by seeing the Sheik(s) yesterday on ESPN ... thanks for the link.

As far as the stakes gradings are concerned, again, I pretty much figured out that GR1 was the highest and only the very best horses run in those races. I was more interested in what constitutes GR2, 3, etc. Thanks so much again for everyone's help here. I really appreciate it so much!!

http://www.godolphinracing.com/ Linnie, here is a site that will help you learn a little about Godolphin. They have been involved in some of the most expensive, and elite Thoroughbreds in the world. THey spend milions of $$ at the sales, and seem to have endless pockets. And some of them are very young. As for your question about the graded Stakes. THey put a certain horses ability in a class, Grade 1 being the highest. Hope that helps you a little bit. We had a newcomer to the HR board not long ago, and she ask so many questions, I finally gave her some web sites to read up on. She has made huge progress. I didn't mind answering her questions, but thought she could benefit better if she had the reading to go back to. There is so much involved in this sport it is very hard to explain it all. But there are some great books to read, and learn about. SOme of the history is very interesting, some is heartbreaking. If you would like more information, I'll be happy to help.

Posted by: Vicki Jasch at August 27, 2006 08:52 PM

shelly a -- sorry that happened to your baby today, well, it sounds, tho, like boxcar may turn into a "mudder" (? lol)

Thanks Linnie...No NO it wasnt you. If you get a chance to read the posts for today, you 'll see that there was a little bit of reaction that seemed to have started shortly after something I said way early this morning.

I have alot more empathy for writers now....it is very difficult to correctly express your true meanings sometimes.

Leslie In MN

Any more news on Barbaro? From the posts it seems no one is concerned, but I haven't seen anything from NBC. It still seems weird to me that they had to do it today. Is he ok?

####
Thanks for answering Linnie. So, it was Bernadini with the marks. Hope someone can explain what they are. Makes you wonder if they act up and get scraped in their stalls. I'm glad it wasn't Bluegrass Cat, because I would have wondered if it might have possibly been something that he had done earlier that led up to his break.

Thanks so much!

Shelley...I hope Boxcar and Alibi are both ok. Boxcar looked beautiful today...at least he did at the beginning of the race!

OK, BARB AZ ... I understand it now, and yes, I can see where control must be maintained with such a large animal.

HOWEVER ... is there a difference in the 'pain level' depending on WHERE the shank chain is placed? i.e. across the nose, under the chin or under the lip on the gums ... OUCH!!!

I would think that inside the lip on the gum is the most painful????

Linnie, I use a stud chain only when necessary. I don't believe anybody wants to hurt the horse. The way I look at it is, it's me or him! He weighs over 1000 lbs and nobody wants to get hurt either. I've seen TERRIBLE injuries to humans when the horse is out of control. The least restraint is the best, but for safety, sometimes you need that control.

Posted by: Barb AZ at August 27, 2006 08:15 PM

here, here, edie. wonderful ideas. well stated!

Shelley,

I am still very nervous when I watch the races. I got really anxious when I saw all that mud. Boxcar is soo precious though. I know nothing about racing but I loved to watch him run. Glad he's safe!

Anna, from early in the day: Thanks, I know Barbaro won't win HOY because it is based on track performance. Just wishful thinking. It would be nice if Barbaro got an exception!

Mary...Alex explains the cast change in his earlier update. It makes sense to me too.

Just because there's alot of non-Bobby banter here today doesn't mean we're not concerned about him...of course we are, that's why we're all here. We're just filling in time until we hear more from Alex! :-)

All of this talk about Bluegrass Cat and some of you noticing some sort of a favoring on one leg before yesterday's race ...

I gotta say that there was one horse that I also noticed to be a little 'off' on one leg, but I didn't make note of who that was, but I definitely noticed it. I just assumed that it was nothing because his trainers,vets, etc. must have examined him very closely before the race, so I just let it go in my mind.

But now I am going to go back and review that tape again to see if it was Bluegrass Cat that I saw favoring a leg. If that IS the case, wouldn't an injury like this be picked up BEFORE the race, especially since some of us neophytes managed to see something over the TV screen Wouldn't his handlers have seen that too?

Stormy Kiss will be running very soon at Saratoga, and Castellano is riding her!
Be safe, little girl!!!

Mary,

I, too, was concerned that the cast change came so out of the blue on a Sunday. I trust that Alex was right, and that it was just something that needed to be done before Dr. R went on vacation. After the news on July 13, I never completely relax until I read the update on NBC, but I think the difference this time is that in July, after they had to do all the cast changes, there was absolutely no news from NBC at all for many days until the terrible news at the press conference on July 13. Today, Alex did report that Dr. R was pleased with what he saw. I'm gonna hold on to that, breathe and keep praying.-

Linnie, Placement of the chain is controversial. Over the nose is the best as far as I'm concerned. There is more control over the upper lip. It also acts like a twitch when placed there. In 4H, we are not allowed to place the chain over the nose. It must be under the chin. I hate it there, because it tends to make the horse rear. I don't make the rules in 4H. Hope I have helped.

Hey,

Does anyone know how Sweet Northern Saint is doing? I actually bet on him to win the Derby.

Much love to all and to Bobby.

Jazz

Barb in Arizona -- I didn't know that about a 4-H rule in placing the shank under the chin, I was told right away when I started bringing my racehorses into a hunter/jumper barn to start their new career paths that the chain was to go under the chin for aesthetic purposes, instead of over the nose, in case you got into a real tussle. I always used it under the chin, then aroung up to the link/buckle on the jowl area when lunging them -- it always was a great way to communicate to them when I wanted them to collect and use their back more, come from behind with impulsion or whatever. but I agree, if it's me or them, they are going to feel that shank.

Dubai Escapade
Nothing But Fun
Stormy Kiss

Well done to the Jacksons Stormy Kiss for a safe race and coming in 3rd.
Sounds like Edgar had a great ride for Goldolphin...I haven't watched the replay yet but he won by 9 lengths and it they said it could have been more if he'd pushed the horse.

All safe too!

####Barbara to Barbara! It's self preservation! I'm covering my A-- first!

BARBARO I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH AND AM SO EXCITED YOU ARE FEELING BETTER. I AM GLAD YOUR HOOF IS GROWING BACK. I AM SO SORRY ABOUT ST. LIAM, IT IS COMPLETELY HORRIBLE. I PRAY MIKE REA IS RECOVERING QUICKLY.

I HOPE EVERYONE ON SITE IS FEELING GREAT, AND PLEASE COTINUE TO DO SO. I AM STILL WEAK AFTER MY HOSPITAL STAY, CANNOT SEEM TO GET WITH IT, I LOVE YOU ALL,KEEP UP THE GOOD WORKS.

####Barbara Kerr, I enjoy all your horsey knowledge. I swear, I am always learning something new. I'm a horse person, but not a race person. I've learned so much here. Thanks!

####
ditto barb in az -- where are you, i have ex-husband family out there....it's great to get my hands back into everything horsey again. love it. please tell me more about what you're doing with horses these days.

####Barbara Kerr, One last thought: I do the same thing when I am longing them...chain under the chin and attached to the other side. It works great.

hi dora! nice to hear from you again.

Alex,

In the August 22 update from NBC, Dr. Richardson said he wasn't planning to change Barbaro's RH cast during the following two weeks.

His decision to change the cast today was surprising so I'm wondering if you expect to post any additional Barbaro updates this evening?

Thank for you your continuing effort and dedication to bringing us the latest on Barbaro.

Drew

Barbaro, hope your new cast brings you comfort so that you can go outside and graze again.

I have often heard that when viewers see the jockey using the whip, oftentimes it is just to show the horse the whip is there and they are really not using it. I have seen the jockeys make big movements with it along side the horse's eyes. Is this true.

Shelley A. Thanks for letting us share in Boxcar's race. Another "virtual" learning experience.

Congrats! to Michael and Round Pond. Next time it will be first place. She is beautiful!!

Light a candle for the Kentucky plane crash victims and their families. How tragic.

Key West Barbaromaniacs, stay dry and keep safe from the brewing storm.

rosemary

####
barb in az - :)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

####Barbara Kerr, I'm in Glendale and we do EVERYTHING! I am a 4H leader for my kids. They show, English and Western. My youngest daughter and I both barrel race. We also drive. We broke our Chunky little pony to drive a cart. We just have a blast!

Barbaro, hope your new cast brings you comfort so that you can go outside and graze again.

I have often heard that when viewers see the jockey using the whip, oftentimes it is just to show the horse the whip is there and they are really not using it. I have seen the jockeys make big movements with it along side the horse's eyes. Is this true.

Shelley A. Thanks for letting us share in Boxcar's race. Another "virtual" learning experience.

Congrats! to Michael and Round Pond. Next time it will be first place. She is beautiful!!

Light a candle for the Kentucky plane crash victims and their families. How tragic.

Key West Barbaromaniacs, stay dry and keep safe from the brewing storm.

rosemary

Barbaro, hope your new cast brings you comfort so that you can go outside and graze again.

I have often heard that when viewers see the jockey using the whip, oftentimes it is just to show the horse the whip is there and they are really not using it. I have seen the jockeys make big movements with it along side the horse's eyes. Is this true.

Shelley A. Thanks for letting us share in Boxcar's race. Another "virtual" learning experience.

Congrats! to Michael and Round Pond. Next time it will be first place. She is beautiful!!

Light a candle for the Kentucky plane crash victims and their families. How tragic.

Key West Barbaromaniacs, stay dry and keep safe from the brewing storm.

rosemary

Susan, I don't think anyone has told Barbaro he won't run again. I imagine he will. Just not out of a starting gate.

Posted by: Anna at August 27, 2006 01:16 PM

EXACTLY my thoughts when I read that, too ... NO ONE HAS TOLD BARBARO THAT HE WON'T RUN AGAIN, AND LEAST OF ALL, HE HASN'T TOLD HIMSELF THAT!

HE WILL RUN AGAIN! BELIEVE IN BARBARO, BELIEVE IN IT!!! HE WILL RUN AGAIN!!

####

barb in az -- please feel free to send pix, that's great that you're doing it with your daughter:
barbaratkerr@yahoo.com

i barrel raced as a kid, loved to be able to turn so sharp that you could scoop up a handful of dirt with your hands.....

Sorry everyone, I think I clicked one too many times. How embarrassing.

Disregard last two posts.

As Mercy would say. I am a compdufus!!

rosemary ( I will only hit it once, promise!)

EITHER BARBARA - brief explanation of barrel racing??? Thanks!

####
barb in az -- sorry to bother you, but i may want to take up driving, i had spinal fusion surgery and am not supposed to get on a horse again. anything about driving/trainers/facilities you can recommend in south florida? thanks.

####Barbara Kerr, Got it.

Someone asked about Brother Derek. He worked out at Delmar this week.

Barrel Racing: most fun you can have legally! It's a race around barrels in a certain pattern. It involves quick turns, many spills and a few hospital visits, but you will never regret it!

Drew, I am sure Alex will have more information, but I heard it said that Dr. Richardson wanted it done today before he took a few days off.

If Dr. R was pleased, I think we can rest easy!

rosemary

####Barbara Kerr, I emailed you about driving.

BARB AZ - thank you! Sounds basically like an obstacle course...
I'm surprised I've never seen it at any of the country fairs here in CT...or isn't it popular in this part of the country?

Nancy in CT - I never saw it in CT either. I did see it once in California.

FOR SHELLEY A:

Just now reading today's posts from top to bottom ... LOL ... and I saw this one from you:

I feel bad for Bernardini. He's still not going to get the respect he deserves. Now everyone will say he won because Bluegrass Cat was injured.

Of course, I love Barbaro as much as you all but it is a shame that Bernardini just can't be acknowledged as the great horse he is without some sort of contraversy surrounding his wins.

Posted by: ShelleyA at August 27, 2006 02:34 PM

I COULDN'T AGREE MORE! It is a shame that Bernardini can't seem to win a race OUTRIGHT without controversy swirling around him. Now the 'naysayers' will say "He had no competition in the Preakness, none in the Jim Dandy, and now no 'real' threat in the Travers! So sad for him ... BUT ... just maybe there's a silver lining in all of this ... let's just "wait and see", and that's all I'm going to say right now.

But I do agree with you Shelley ... Whatever has happened to Bobby and to 'Cat is due, in no way whatsoever, to Bernadini ... just another 'kindred spirit' who wants to run free and doesn't even know why. There is not one of us who should be disparaging "Bernie" ... NONE of this is his fault! We all need to remember that!

I LOVE BOBBY JUST AS MUCH AS THE MOST PASSIONATE, AVID PERSON ON THIS BOARD, BUT NOT AT THE EXPENSE OF ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL SPIRIT THAT HAS NO IDEA WHAT'S GOING ON WITH THESE OTHER HORSES AND HE HASN'T CAUSED IT! LET'S ALL REMEMBER THIS, PLEASE, ABOVE ALL ELSE. PLEASE.

####
Nancy in Ct
Sally,

I never really got involved with it until I moved to the Phoenix area. I honestly don't think it is an "Eastern" thing...More of the Wild Wild West thing!

Barbara Kerr: I have a big Percheron kid, who was a PMU rescued foal - great horse - teaching him to pull and to drive (as well as training him to ride) - a different horse experience but just as much fun seeing them learn and accomplish and he just loves it - wish i knew some places to tell you to go to in the Miami area but dont - just encouraging you to try it out...

Lisa in Colorado

####Lisa in CO (and Barb K):

Look up Doris Ganton. She has MUCH info about breaking them to drive.

Don't know who ask the question about the spots on BGC before and during the loading.

It was lather on his neck and shoulder, from sweating.

Blessings to all,
Faith

####Lisa in CO, I love that you have a PMU foal. We are seriously thinking of getting one. Too many horses right now. You are wonderful.

ok Barbs - you have peaked my interest - what is driving???

FOR J CARSON BLACK:

Just read the post below:

I AM STANDING ON A CHAIR APPLAUDING AND CHEERING!!

THANK YOU FOR EXPRESSING IN WORDS EXACTLY WHAT I AM FEELING IN MY HEART!!

Barbaro's Mark and Legacy will be completely different ... OFF the racetrack! He is destined for something far more 'ethereal and spiritual' in nature; a legacy that will transcend ALL SPORT in many ways, and he has accepted his calling with grace and dignity. We should all be so accepting ourselves.

Having said all of this, I do NOT count out Barbaro's racing again ... call me crazy, nuts, insane or 'whatever' ... something tells me that "We ain't seen nothin' yet!"

Re. Bernardini, I am completely behind this wonderful horse, and I want him to dominate. It takes nothing away from Barbaro. Barbaro is running another race now. I would have loved more than anything to see Barbaro running against Bernardini in these classic races, but it was not to be.

Barbaro has done great things for racing, for other horses, for medicine, and for all of our souls. He has, probably, inspired Greg Gilchrist to go to the wall for Lost in the Fog, because Lost in the Fog is a fighter like Barbaro. Barbaro was a tragedy that has turned (almost, not out of the woods yet) into a triumph of incredible proportions.

Bernardini is making his name on the track. Finally, he may be emerging from the shadow of Barbaro, and I think every horseman wants to see something spectacular in the coming races.

Bernardini doesn't hurt Barbaro. Nothing can hurt Barbaro in the eyes of the public and in the eyes of his people.

Posted by: J. Carson Black at August 27, 2006 02:47 PM

Another one - what is a PMU horse?

Kennett Florists #####

Have any of you been to NBC today, or don't you go on Sundays? Not, I guess. Got to have a day off sometime. Just thought you might have a Barbaro report. Just wishful thinking I guess, wishing for a good report on how his day has been.I'm hoping he is fine and dandy !!

Shelley ### Congrats on Boxcar.

May God continue to watch over Barbaro, heal him, and give him strength to continue his recovery. Bless his connections, all that care so much for this wondeful horse.

On a sad note, I lost my beloved Sluggo this morning. He was brave to the end, but I had to make the decision to let him go; he was in pain, but is no more. God Bless him. I will forever miss him. The Best dog ever. Thanks to all of you for your healing prayers over the past few weeks for him -

Monica
Fayetteville, GA

####Sally, Sally, Sally,

Driving is just a horse pulling a cart. PMU foal is one from the pregnant mares used for the OBGYN drugs, premarin and others. PMU= Pregnant Mare Urine.

I know you talked to your OBGYN. I saw it in an earlier post. Thanks, Sally!

Monica I'm soooo sorry. I have been praying for Sluggo since you told us he was sick. Well he is not in pain anymore. You did the best thing.

XXOO

Monica

I'm very sorry for your lose.

####Monica, My thoughts and payers are with you. We have all been through it. I will light a candle. It will help to know that everybody here is thinking of you and him.

Thanks Barb - you saved one of those poor babies - I so glad you did. What a mess that whole situation is.

Driving - I thought maybe thats what it was - but sometimes I'm surprised. I thought maybe the horse was learning to drive a car!!!

Sally - thank you. I'm devasted, and my house is so empty today. I know all animals do go to heaven, and I pray that I will see him there one day.

Monica

I'm glad you rescued the baby - that is so wonderful.

I thought you were teaching a horse to drive!!

sorry for the double post - I didn't see it and tried again - oooppps!

Just wanted to clarify that I have lots of respect and admiration for Bernardini, but we all want the ultimate, which is a good race between healthy competitors doing what they love to do, run like the wind!

Unfortunately, the situation this year isn't allowing for that.

HOY almost always goes to an older horse. In fact, there should be lots of terrific racing this fall once Bernardini hooks up with Invasor and Lava Man. That will be the true test.

What annoys me is when commentators or writers at this stage of the year hint that support for Barbaro may be--just may be--based primarily on emotion and sentimentality. He has credentials, solid ones. I don't want these guys to forget them.

A Barbaro Award! Cool. He has definitely achieved something unique that no race on the track could have been responsible for.

I hope Bernardini stays healthy and happy and if he goes on and beats the older guys, I say great, he deserves all the accolades. I just wish Bobby could have had his chance. And more than anything, I hope and pray they all stay safe.

As for the plane crash, CNN says the media is holed up at Keeneland, which is across the street from the airport. Can't believe they still only have 2 gates (I used to fly out of there on prop planes back in the late '60s).

And for Fla Barbaromaniacs, Ernesto is now a tropical storm! Stay safe, and don't send it up here to CT. ha ha

Sluggo must have had lots of new friends meet him at "The Rainbow Bridge".

My sympathies

Samantha

SALLY - Pregnant Mare Urine used specifically for drugs to relieve the symptoms of menopause...it's a horrible, brutal industry...especially for the mares who are confined for the duration of pregnancy so that every drop of urine can be collected for sale to big drug companies. And the foals are considered "expendable" because the goal of this operation is to keep the mares pregnant in order to collect the urine...NO THOUGHT TO THE OFFSPRING. There is a PMU foal rescue organization (nationwide) and there are at least 2 "official" foal rescue drop points here in CT...one of them just a 20 minute ride from me...I've visited several times. Usually (but not always) the foals are "pre-adopted" and are shipped to various parts of the country in large lots to make it cheaper...and therefore make the adoption costs affordable. I've seen some INCREDIBLE horses at this place...many are draft crosses...through the work of this organization, not only have many horses been saved, but attention has been drawn to the use of Premarin--Pre(gnant)mar(e)(ur)in(e) and other drugs, and much education concerning the use of substitute (and often natural) products for menopause symptoms. I'll email you the link to Locket's Meadow and you can take a look.
Nancy

####Sally,

Go here!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XeFWmXxCvY

Monica I am sorry about sluggo. If he coud talk I am sure he would thank you for all the care and love you gave him.

You Go Boy!!! Keep up the good work with healing my beautiful boy. Thanks to all who have had a part in this.

My heart goes out to the the owners of St. Liam. What a cruel twist of fate. The Lord has another beautiful soul with him now.

LITF....I'm praying that the medication does what it's suppose to and shrink those tumors. I will be praying for another miracle. In the meantime enjoy the pampering.

I'm hoping for a good night for all. Rest easy Barbaro and I will check in tomorrow.

Stacey

Monica...I'm so sorry about Sluggo x

Barb - thats exactly what I was thinking!

Monica
Our thoughts are with you - we have all had to make the decision you made today and know it was for the best.
Sluggo is in a better place and happy - it is us that suffers so their loss

####Sally, That one cracked me up!

Barb - it is very funny especially he likes burgers - I didn't think horses ate meat!!!

####All, logging off. Must get SOMETHING done. This place is so addicting, I may need therapy and I will then have to sue Alex! LOL. Don't come after me, Alex.

Monica - my condolences on the loss of your Sluggo...you were a good mommy! I think all the pet people will agree that it never gets any easier to make this decision no matter how many times we go through it.
Blessings,
Nancy

####PS Sally,

That CAN'T be good for him!

Monica: So sorry about Sluggo - It is so hard to let them go, even though you know its time for them - You are right, the house just feels so empty afterwards....Hang in there and know that you did the right thing for Sluggo...

Lisa in Colorado

Monica, I am so sorry for your loss. I have just lost 2 of my Great Pryenees three weeks apart. The first was my female, who was 10 years old to heart failure. THen tomorrow will be 2 weeks since I lost her son to Cancer. I know the heartache, and emptiness. It hurts so much to lose them. They enrich our lives so much, and all they ask is to be fed, and loved.

Monica,

So very sorry for your loss. I have been there and I know the heartbreak you are feeling. Just know that he is safe in God's loving arms, and that a day will come when you will be reunited with him. He was a good little fighter and gave it his best. Just think of the wonderful memories he left with you, and he will always be a there with you.

Blessings to you,
Faith

Blast, I slept thru Round Pond!!! Somebody was supposed to wake me up!!!!!!!!!!! Next time I am giving somebody my phone number to call me when I want to wake up for a race.

Oh Monica,

God Bless You! Sluggo is in Heaven with all of his Friends. Your heartache will lessen and we will hold you until it's better.

It's so awfully hard. I'm so very sorry.

Baltimore Debbie and Furry Kids

Monica, so sorry about Sluggo. May the memories you have of him make you smile.

Sally and Laura stay safe, and any other FL Barbaromaniac's.

Mike Rea, continued healing for you.

Sweet boy have a peaceful night, filled with dreams of carrots, apples and studmuffins! God bless all who care for you.

Grow hoof grow.
Heal leg heal.

Believe in the miracle of Barbaro!

I am sorry, Monica for you loss. Our furry friends are very hard to loose.

FOB:

You posted:

Jazil (d.o.b. 02/11/03)

I guess everyone already knows this, but for new readers the Derby,Preakness and Belmont Stakes were all won by horses wearing the Number #8
Barbaro (d.o.b. 04/29/03
Bernandini (d.o.b 03/23/03)
Jazil (d.o.b. 02/11/03)

Posted by: FOB at August 27, 2006 05:43 PM

NO, I DID NOT KNOW THAT AT ALL ... THANK YOU FOR THAT REVELATION!

SO INSTEAD OF THE BEATLES' REVOLUTION #9, IT WILL NOW BE #8, #8, #8! WOW!!

TO MONICA:

HERE IS A PRAYER FOR YOUR LOST PET.

DEAR GOD,
MY SLUGGO WAS SO SPECIAL. THE DEATH OF THIS BEAUTIFUL ANIMAL HAS LEFT ME EMPTY AND DEPRESSED. PLEASE HELP ME BRIDGE THIS PARALYZING TIME WITH THE MEMORIES OF THE JOY WE SHARED. LET ME ALWAYS FOCUS ON THE DELIGHT SLUGGO BOUGHT TO MY LIFE. ANIMALS ARE SUCH A WONDERFUL PART OF THE WORLD YOU CREATED, AND THE LOSS OF SLUGGO WILL BE WITH ME ALWAYS. I MAY IN TIME, SHARE MY LIFE WITH A NEW PET, BUT THE MEMORIES OF SLUGGO WILL NEVER BE REPLACED.

AMEN

Good Evening, Team Barbaro!

Monica, I'm so sorry to hear about Sluggo. I've made that decision with my pets often enough. The emptiness is the hardest...but he is out of pain, he is not alone...and neither are you. Don't be surprised if you "feel" Sluggo around you. Love knows no time, no space and it never dies. It never dies.

LITF, am going to bid you an early good night. Be comfy and dream wonderful dreams of feeling feisty my Long Time Sun.

Barbaro, good night sweet one. The weather is still a bit unsettled here in Chester County and will be thru tomorrow. Hope you get out grazing in between the raindrops. Shine on you crazy diamond. I talked to Gallant Secret's owner today....sweet lady...you'd like her. Say hi to GS in your dreams.

Take care, everybody.

Healing and Peace,
Lyn Gilbert

Monica, I'm so sad for your loss. It's so hard, they bring us so much joy and it's so hard to let them go, especially when you have to make the decision. I pray God will comfort you. Sluggo is pain free now, perfect and whole.

Dear Monica,

I was so sorry to read your earlier post about Sluggo. This quiet, empty time you are going through right now can be devastating.

Please know, many of us here, have suffered similar losses in our lives. I don't mention this to minimize your loss of Sluggo, but to remind you that you are not alone in how you are feeling. And, you are just plain, not alone. We are here. Someone is always here. If you would like to set up a Sluggo topic in the Discussion forum to share your feelings, frustration and just plain "vent", let us know.

We are here. Take care Monica.

####

Monica - I am so sorry for your loss. It is said their spirit is around for 7 days or more. I felt my Kennedy around me for at least that long. Listen closely, and you will hear Sluggo. Journaling helped me. God Bless.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

ABOUT HORSE OF THE YEAR, TOP 3 YEAR OLD

I'VE BEEN READING THE COMMENTS(SORRY ABOUT THE CAPS)

OK, HORSE OF THE YEAR, FIRST BERNARDINI HAS TO BEAT OLDER HORSE'S AND THE BEST 3 YEAR OLDS(WHOEVER IS LEFT HERE AND WHOEVER COMES OVER FROM OTHER COUNTRIES?) IN THE BREEDERS CUP CLASSIC, FOR ANY SHOT AT HORSE OF THE YEAR, HE HASNT FACED DISCRET CAT YET OR INVASOR(MY PICK FOR HORSE OF THE YEAR THUS FAR),REMEMBER FLOWER ALLEY WHO 'ALMOST' BEAT ST LIAM(GOD REST HIS SOUL) LAST YR IN THE BREEDERS CUP CLASSIC, HE SHOULD BE BACK IN THE BREEDERS CUP CLASSIC THIS YR. AND, THERE ARE A HOST OF OTHER HORSE'S ALSO THAT ARE GOING TO BE RUNNING IN THE CLASSIC AT YEARS END..

WELL, BARBARO IS MY PICK, BUT IF INVASOR GOES ON TO WIN THE BIG RACES?? I ALWAYS ADMIRED 'CANDY STRIPES" OFFSPRING,TOO BAD THERE ARENT MANY RACING HERE IN THE USA..AND INVASOR, ISNT FROM HERE ORIGINALLY..BUT, SUN KING(ANOTHER ONE OF MY FAVORITES) ALMOST GOT TO INVASOR..BUT SUN KING WAS A FRESHER HORSE, AND NEVER COUNT OUT NICK ZITO TO PULL AN UPSET. MAYBE NICK WILL BRING HIM BACK IN THE BREEDERS CUP CLASSIC THIS YEAR AFTER A NICE LONG REST??

BERNARDINI, HAVE TO LOVE HIM, BUT HASNT BEATEN MUCH COMPETITION?? HE BEAT THE SAME BARBARO BEAT!
HIS(BERNARDINI'S) RACES WERE WAAY TOO EASY, TOO BAD BLUEGRASSCAT WAS INJURED, HE WAS RUNNING ON AN INJURY AND WAS RIGHT THERE, WHAT MIGHT HAVE BEEN?? BUT, THOSE THAT VOTE DONT LOOK AT MIGHT OF BEENS OR WHAT IF'S?? THEY LOOK AT WHAT HAVE YOU DONE RIGHT NOW??

DONT MIND THE "REPORTERS" AND I USE THAT TERM LOOSLEY, FOR "SOME OF THEM", BECAUSE THEY ARE THOSE "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR ME LATELY??", KIND OF PEOPLE THEY DROVE ME NUTS LAST YEAR BASHING AFLEET ALEX, AND THE YEAR BEFORE BASHING SMARTY.

BE VERY VERY CAREFUL WHO YOU EMAIL AND RESPOND TO, IF YOU THINK BARBARO SHOULD GET IT?? AND I PERSONALLY DO.. USE 'SUGAR' INSTEAD OF 'SALT' THESE PEOPLE YOU ARE WRITING TOO, ARE THE SAME PEOPLE WHO VOTE..

WEATHER IT BE HOY OR TOP 3YR OLD?? BARABRO SHOULD GET TOP 3YR OLD BECAUSE HE JUST MADE THE OTHER 3YR OLDS LOOK SILLY IN THE DERBY! BIGGEST MARGIN IN HOW LONG?? AND NOT EVEN UNDER A WHIP! IF THAT DOESNT CONVINCE THEM?? NOTHING WILL!! ALSO UNDEFEATED! HE WON SOO IMPRESSIVELY IN ALL HIS RACES, I SAW HIM IN HIS 2ND RACE AND WAS BLOWN AWAY BY HIM, AND FOLLOWED HIM EVER SINCE. A FRIEND OF MINE WHO I USED TO GO TO THE TRACK WITH TOLD ME ABOUT HIM. HE WAS SOOO RIGHT!! THAT IS SOMETHING I THINK THOSE WHO VOTE SHOULD HAVE TO LOOK AT, THE COMPARISION BETWEEN BARBARO AND BERNARDINI, OR ANYOTHER THAT IS UP FOR HOY OR 3 YR OLD, COMPARE THEM SIDE BY SIDE, THEIR SPEED FIGURES AND HOW AND WHO THEY BEAT AND HOW THEY DID IT.. AND HIS TRANSITIONS FROM TURF TO DIRT.. BUT OF COURSE THAT ISNT HOW THEY VOTE!!

THIS YEARS CROP OF 3 YEAR OLDS IS PRETTY TALENTED, LAST YR. THERE WERE ALOT OF DOUBTS.. BARBARO BEAT THE BEST IN THE KENTUCKY DERBY. IF ONLY BERNARDINI WAS IN THERE! NEVER MIND THE TURF TO DIRT!! HE MADE THE TRANSITION SOO EASILY..WHO ELSE DID THAT?? AND REMAINED UNDEFEATED?? DOING IT SOO EASILY..

BERNARDINI, IN MY OPINION HASNT REALLY BEEN TESTED YET.. LETS WAIT AND SEE, DONT WRITE OFF BARBARO YET AND THOSE WHO VOTE..IF BERNARDINI, FALTERS IN HIS NEXT RACE?? THE REPORTERS WILL BE CHANGING THEIR TUNE AGAIN!! NOT SURE WHO HE WILL BE FACING?? WAIT UNTIL THE BREEDERS CUP CLASSIC. THEN WE WILL SEE WHO DESERVES HOY HONORS AND TOP 3 YEAR OLD HONORS...THAT WILL BE BERNARDINI'S BIGGEST TEST. IF HE WINS, THEN HE DESERVES HOY HONORS. THEN HE BEAT THE BEST OF THE BEST, FROM HERE AND ALL OVER. WELL MINUS THE BEST HORSE WE HAVE SEEN SINCE HORSE RACING'S HAY DAY! WAAAY BACK WHEN!!

IT IS GOOD TO SEE THAT TEAM BARBARO IS GOING TO WIN AN AWARD FOR GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND..
SORRY IF IT WAS A LONG POST? I JUST HAVE ALOT TO SAY ON WHY BARBARO SHOULD WIN, IF NOT HOY THEN TOP 3YR OLD..

OH, ONE MORE THING, IF IT WASNT FOR BARBARO'S DOMINATION IN THE DERBY, THE PREAKNESS FIELD MIGHT OF BEEN A LITTLE MORE COMPETITIVE?? WHO WANTED TO FACE BARBARO?? MADE IT ALL THAT MORE EASY FOR BERNARDINI..ALSO, JAZIL WON THE BELMONT. HOPEFULLY HE WILL BE HEALED AND READY FOR THE CLASSIC TOO..

THANKS FOR LETTING ME COMMENT, AND THANKS FOR THE SITE AND UPDATES..I USED TO CHECK THE BLOODHORSE FIRST THING, NOW I COME HERE..

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You'd think those astronomers would have considered that 8 is the number assigned to powerful, transformative, regenerative Scorpio -- ruled by Pluto, the now downgraded dwarf planet -- and thought twice.

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Posted by: Friar Tuck at August 27, 2006 06:09 PM

Hay, hay, hay, Friar Tuck!

Methinks that the number assigned to Pluto and, therefore, Scorp, is #9!! But I could be wrong!! Anyway, I am one of 'those' Scorpios that most people shy away from ... weakness? Don't know.

Anyway, I do know that Pluto and Mars rule Scorpio and now that they have 'downgraded' Pluto to some sort of 'dwarf planet' ... does that mean my ruling leader has 'disintegrated' into the dust? What's a Scorpio to do now? Adopt another planet as it's ruler?

OK ... I will! BARBARO!! He deserves his own planet anyway for what he's accomplished and achieved thus far, and he DOES belong on another planet in the Universe.

So, in keeping with the vowel ending necessary in this instance, I now 'dub' Barbaro the ruling planet for Scorpio!!

LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT!!

Thanks, Friar!!

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Monica,

I am so very sorry to hear about Sluggo. The love you share never goes away. He will be with you, in your heart, always.

September 19 marks the one year anniversary of the passing of my dear Sam, my cat. I think of him every day, and always will. I feel that his being in my thoughts is his way of saying "I'm still here in your heart Mom".

I know you will always think of Sluggo too, he is just a gentle thought away.

Hugs to you Monica on this sad day, many here share your grief, look to us for strength.

Monica,

I am so sorry about Sluggo. It's been a sad week for our beloved animals. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Vicki...I'm really sorry that you lost your two babies recently. It must be so hard dealing with twice the heartache, and they must have left a very big hole in your life. I hope they were waiting to meet Sluggo.

Thank You So Much Alex - We will all be up at the crack of dawn in order to get an update first thing in a.m.

Believe In Barbaro
Believe In Miracles

A question regarding timing in horse racing for those "in the know".

Would the amount of horses effect overall race time? For example, in Formula 1 racing (the only kind I follow), a car will be much quicker the fewer cars are around it and on the track.

So, in a race of 20 cars, the individual lap times will be lower as the "field" will effect the speed of the car. In a race of 7 cars, the cars will have quicker lap times due to far less traffic.

Could the same be true in horse racing?

Thanks for any input.

Go Barbaro Go!

###

Lisa Morin - I love F1 - do you watch the race today from Turkey - great finish!

Monica,

I'm so sorry, but I'm glad that Sluggo had a mom who loved him with all her heart, and gave him a wonderful, happy life.

Hang in there.

Yes Sally, big F1, Ferrari and M Shumacher fan. Great finish though it dd not turn as I would have liked :)

To all our friends in Florida

I just saw that Ernesto was downgraded to a tropical storm. But they can be just as bad as some hurricanes.
Stay save and be careful.

Good news about Round Pond! She's in the best of hands.

Alex, I'm sorry you didn't get to see her race, but I'm sure you'll see her next race, when she wins. Have a nice, relaxing evening.

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Mikey is my favorate too! I wanted him to pass Alonso soooo bad. Good win for Massa!!!

Just saw in Alex's update that this site will be featured in the Cecil Whig tomorrow. Think we can all behave for awhile and make him proud!!

Yes Mom!

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Yes too bad about Michael :( Nice win for Massa & Ferrari though.

Not an Alonso fan at all....too arrogant. I wanted Michael to pass him so badly, I was screaming at the tv!

Sorry to take up board space everyone, but it is nice to chat with a fellow F1 fan.

Congratulations to Round Pond and to Michael Matz. He sure does deserve good news. What a beauty Round Pond is, and she looks so much like Barbaro! Dare we hope that someday ... ? Their babies would be so gorgeous.

I've known Round Pond since she was a baby here at Phila Park and she's an amazing horse. I was so glad to see her return today and do so well.

When she's on the top of her game, she's the best!! Congratulations to Michael Matz for getting her back on top.

#####

Lisa Leach, CJ, Nancy VA,

Thank you for your very kind words earlier re BGC.

Round Pond is totally game. She will win alot in her future starts, she has the eyes of a champion.

Thank you all for the good thoughts about the hurricane. it's supposed to gain strenght 2 more times over very warm, deep waters.

Round Pond had her game face on today, and just needed to get her groove back (ha ha for all of you who read "when stella got her groove back")...she will win again, i promise. what a pretty mare/filly.

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Not an Alonso fan AT ALL - like you said to arrogant and he talks crap about Mikey.

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GROW HOOF GROW
HEAL LEG HEAL
SHRINK TUMORS SHRINK

It seems when we get together to pray for something or someone that Someone listens to us and I have not seen the previous chats as I have just come from the TV. So I am not sure if I am repeating anything....Please pray for the co-pilot of the Conair Flt. that crashed from takeoff in Lexington, KY. He the only survivor and is in critical condition and according to the report on TV the only survivor of the crash.

Good night sweet Barbaro and all of the "nation" ....sweet dreams and love to all of you...

JO, and all concerned about JENNYS ON RADIO:

I've spent many hours during the past week trying to find out what happened to Jennys. I managed to locate her owners' names (Michael Canale & Joseph Siringo) and her trainer's (James Ferraro), as well as some racing websites where she ran: Aqueduct - Jan 13, Feb 1, Feb 11; Belmont - July 2; Saratoga - July 28, Aug 20. (I can't account for the gap.) Teresa had mentioned in Update 50 that Jennys On Radio is a horse based at Aqueduct in the barn of a small trainer, Jim Ferraro, whose horses don't win very often.

It was during Jennys on Radio's last race at Saratoga on August 20 that she fell - unnoticed in
the backstretch. Saratoga's official comment was "clipped heels second turn, fell, vanned off."

I was struck by the original poster here who was saddened by the apparent lack of attention to her plight, and there followed a very interesting discussion about all the unsung equine heroes
in the racing business.

Jennys is/was a 3-year old bay filly who generally trailed the field and went into her August 20 race with 50:1 odds. Her pedigree includes Northern Dancer and Secretariat.

I didn't see her race, but for some reason I can't forget her, and clearly I'm not the only one. I hope she's resting comfortably in her stall at Aqueduct, and I'd sure like to know what her future holds. If she's gone, the continuing interest we have in her is perhaps only because someone in this forum was deeply touched by her fall, and because she had such a pretty name. There are so many others whose names we'll never know.

I wish I had an answer for you.

Monica,

I'm so sorry for your loss.

Mirth

thanks Alex for checking in for us. Sorry there's no Barbaro update tonight , but it is Sun. and his racing folks are out of town. We'll have to do with Peter B. reiteration of Dr. R's happy comment from this morning. That is a blessing in itself.

Hope everyone had a great weekend, and all returned safely.

## Monica, I prayed so many times for Sluggo and I hope his last days here were happy. A big grandma's hug to you dear.

Barbaro , I hope your new cast fits like a soft glove and you are out in the sun tomorrow. sleep tight , champ.

#################
Monica . . . so very sorry for your loss, and I send you a hug. I know that your Sluggo is smiling down on you from Heaven and I believe with all my heart that you will get a special sign of some type from Sluggo to comfort you.
Sluggo knows how much you loved him, Monica. You take care -- thinking of you. Lou Ann, Pennsylvania
##################

MIRTH,

Thanks for the post about Jennys On Radio. I've looked too but can't find any information about her. I think the original poster, who saw the race, said she was able to get up and walk off the track on her own. We can only hope that bodes well for her.

If you have time and are so inclined? www.flyingfilly.com keeps a list of departed T-breds. Jennys' name isn't on there; neither is J J Jake, 6th race Hollywood Park, July 3. Nothing further can be found on JJJ either. Email inquiries have gone unanswered. Anyway, flyingfilly has a link so they can be contacted by email. I cannot access the link because my computer won't let me, but maybe you or someone else could, and maybe the people at flyingfilly can find out what happened to these two horses who are haunting us.

HELLO EVERYONE!

MIRTH,
Can you catch me up on Jennys?

########
Beverly

Thanks for the info on Brother Derek. Haven't heard anything about him, but I'm glad he's still racing and he's okay.

Hello Barbaro
As always you are in my many thoughts and prayers this evening - praying, too, for another ACN for you.
I hope your new cast feels as comfortable as possible and nice and secure. Hope you are relaxing this evening, and I'll bet you got some treats and pets from your NBC ICU angels.
Remember positive healing thoughts and sweet dreams of sunny meadows to come.
You and Dr. R are kindred spirits so you know wherever he is tonight he's still thinking of you, and be sure to send a "neigh" of encouragement to your buddies, Mike Rea and Fog, too!
My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro!
WE BELIEVE IN MIRACLES!
WE BELIEVE IN BARBARO!
A kiss to your nose, love you so much, Lou Ann, Pennsylvania

Monica, I'm so sorry about Sluggo..God will take good care of him now, just as you have done for so many years...and you will see him again, don't you worry.

Barbaro, you have sweet dreams tonight. I'm glad your cast change went well and Dr. R was happy with your results. You rest well tonight so you can go graze and do walkies tomorrow.

God Bless Barbaro, keep him strong, make him stronger.

God bless Foggy, let him eat, rest and let the medicine shrink those tumors.

See you in the morning.

Thanks Alex for the updates.

Didn't have internet for a few days (??) trying to catch up on the updates but was able to see the Travers. Glad to hear that BGC will be ok....

Hoping for a good night (and a good Sunday!)

Believe In Miracles!!

Thank you Mirth
Susan E has it in a nutshell...these names will continue to haunt us, and we now have Dr. Doright to add to the list.

GOODNIGHT CHAMP!
It's true! You are the best and in my book,
HORSE OF THE YEAR. Not one of your current rivals will ever match the greatness that fate has dealt you. Wishing you ACN as well as a pain free day tomorrow. God Speed Bobby. God Speed.

ALEX,
Thanks for the updates! Can't wait to read Cecil Whig! Hope you had a great day!
God Bless,
Debra,WI

saw the following article at

http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/editorial/news/article.cgi?id=5474

Sorry if it's already been posted.

Haskell Invitational S. (G1) winner and dual classic-placed BLUEGRASS CAT (Storm Cat), runner-up in Saturday's Travers S. (G1), has been retired after sustaining a fracture in his right hind pastern. The WinStar Farm homebred cooled out in apparently good order after the "Mid-Summer Derby," but trainer Todd Pletcher found him lame on Sunday morning, and X-rays discovered the non-displaced fracture. Owners Bill Casner and Kenny Troutt are considering surgical options for the injury, which is not life-threatening.

"This horse was just coming into his own," Pletcher said. "Bluegrass Cat was bringing his game to a whole new level coming off his performance in the Haskell. It is quite disappointing that his career has come to an end. He was a very special horse."

The bay colt ranked among the leaders of his generation for the past two seasons. As a juvenile, Bluegrass Cat progressed rapidly from maiden winner to graded stakes hero, scoring authoritative victories in the Nashua S. (G3) and Remsen S. (G2). Pletcher elected to take the Tampa Bay route on the Triple Crown Trail, and his pupil made a successful sophomore debut in the Sam F. Davis S.

After throwing a shoe when second in the Tampa Bay Derby (G3) and turning in an uncharacteristic clunker when a distant fourth in the Blue Grass S. (G1), Bluegrass Cat was widely overlooked in the Kentucky Derby (G1), but he ran a tremendous race to finish runner-up to the scintillating Barbaro (Dynaformer). He again performed valiantly in the Belmont S. (G1), enduring a wide trip throughout but staying on determinedly for runner-up honors. He finally broke through at the Grade 1 level with a powerhouse, seven-length romp in the Haskell, his last race prior to his game chase of Bernardini (A.P. Indy) in the Travers.

Bluegrass Cat was produced by the unraced A.P. Indy mare She's a Winner, making him a half-brother to Grade 2 winner Lord of the Game (Saint Ballado). She's a Winner is herself a full sister to Grade 2 queen Daydreaming and Grade 3 victor Accelerator, and she is a half-sister to current stakes-winning three-year-old Harborage (Monarchos). The family traces to champion Numbered Account (Buckpasser).

Retiring with a mark of 11-5-4-0 and $1,761,280 in earnings, Bluegrass Cat will enter stud next year at WinStar Farm near Versailles, Kentucky.

"We are clearly disappointed that Bluegrass Cat's racing career has come to an end," said Doug Cauthen, president of WinStar. "We are excited, however, about his extraordinary prospects as a stallion."

TO ALL: Sorry if this was already posted.
It's a NY Times article. "JUSTICE FOR BARBARO"

August 27, 2006
The City
Justice for Barbaro
By MICAH MORRISON
BARBARO, the tragic hero of this year’s Preakness Stakes, is on the mend and it’s back to business for thoroughbred racing. This weekend the celebrated Mid-Summer Derby — the Travers Stakes — is taking place at Saratoga Race Course. And this week, a panel appointed by Gov. George Pataki is scheduled to begin considering bids to run New York’s $2.7 billion racing franchise at Saratoga, Aqueduct and Belmont racetracks. The current franchise expires in December 2007.
All that is good news for the racing business but bad news for every thoroughbred headed for the track. In the aftermath of Barbaro’s injury, it seemed that news media attention might crack open a window on the racing world’s dirty little secret: the scandal of thoroughbred breakdowns. It didn’t happen. But in the weeks ahead, Governor Pataki will be presented with a historic opportunity to change the fate of the thoroughbred by spurring the creation of a national database on breakdowns.
“Breaking down” is the euphemism of choice in the racing world, usually followed by “humanely euthanized.” But it would be more precise to call it something like “horrifying catastrophic injury” followed by “veterinary execution.”
I wish I could tell you precisely how many horses break down and die at America’s racetracks every year, but I can’t. No one can. Comprehensive national statistics on thoroughbred breakdowns are more elusive than Saddam Hussein’s weapons of mass destruction.
In a 1993 Sports Illustrated article, William Nack cited a University of Minnesota study that projected 840 fatal breakdowns at American tracks in 1992, or “one fatality for every 92 races.” The most common figure cited during the Barbaro affair was 1.4 per 1,000 starts, from a 1992 Kentucky survey. This summer, a staggering 26 horses have died at Chicago’s Arlington Park because of running-related injuries.
An official with the American Association of Equine Practitioners told me that there is no central body in the United States keeping statistics on fatal thoroughbred injuries, and that the association has not conducted any studies on the number of injuries.
We don’t know why horses break down. Theories range from drugs to breeding problems, training methods, and even track surfaces. But worse, without a comprehensive database, we don’t know if the number of catastrophic injuries is increasing and if this might be due to a general decline in the physical soundness of the breed.
But the real scandal in thoroughbred racing is that the people controlling the game don’t want to know.
These people are the thoroughbred owners and breeders. Today, the big money in horse racing is in the breeding shed, not at the track. Thoroughbred racing is now the feeder system for a multibillion-dollar breeding industry. Owners and breeders are looking for a colt to win a few big races and then retire to stud, where the top horses can earn upwards of $100,000 per mare. Fusaichi Pegasus, the winner of the Kentucky Derby in 2000, will service about 200 mares this year, with total earnings around $25 million.
The babies are big money too. Earlier this year, a 2-year-old colt was sold for a record $16 million. But studies based on comprehensive national data might call into question today’s breeding techniques.
The owners and breeders are not about to let that happen. They have the game wired from top to bottom, effectively controlling racetracks, racing organizations, equine research centers, lobbying groups and publications. No one dares speak out. Talking about thoroughbred breakdowns is “a no-win situation for us,” one top racing official told me, before refusing to speak further on the subject. The American Association of Equine Practitioners, which claims a “meticulous concern for the health and welfare of the horse,” stopped returning my e-mail messages on the subject. Ditto a half-dozen other official “horse-friendly” organizations.
“There is much uncertainty about why so many racehorses end up dead on American tracks every year,” Mr. Nack wrote in 1993, “but the figures are appalling and unacceptable by any humane standard.” Thirteen years later, nothing has changed.
But Governor Pataki has an opportunity to transform the fate of the thoroughbred with the stroke of a pen. The New York racing franchise at Saratoga, Aqueduct and Belmont is one of the biggest treasure troves in racing history. Bidders include some of the most prominent names in racing and breeding: Churchill Downs; Magna Entertainment; Stephen Swindal, George Steinbrenner’s son-in-law; and many others. The governor should direct his panel to mandate that the winning bidder for the New York franchise provide financing for an independent comprehensive national database on thoroughbred breakdowns.
With New York as a sponsor, the rest of the racing world would support a national database. Reliable data will help settle troubling questions about thoroughbred breakdowns.
Owners and breeders are decent people, but it’s tough to buck a multibillion-dollar industry. By mandating a national database as part of the new racing franchise, Albany can help provide what all horse lovers truly want: more protection for the wondrous creatures that afford us so much pleasure and joy.

Micah Morrison is a former senior editorial page writer for The Wall Street Journal.

Hello Alex! I'm glad Barbaro continues to do so well! I was watching the Nijinsky and saw Diplomatic Agent take a horrible spill towards the end of the race. I can't find any news about him. Do you know anything?

Alex, thank you for all your up-dates on Barbaro and all the other horses. I have been following the races they are in. I wondered if you posted an address were we can send cards, etc to LITF. If you did, I missed it. I would really like to send a card to show we care. Thanks. Karen

Hey Barbaro and Barbaromaniacs!

I am back from vacation! Susan C called me frequently with updates so I was able to keep up with all the encouraging news on Bobby's progress. Thank you Susan C!!! Oh, and Bobby, I loved the video of you virtually dragging Dr. R down the path! You are an inspiration! Keep up the good work sweet boy!!!

I was also very happy to hear the awesome news about Lost In The Fog. God bless all involved for not giving up! I am praying for a miracle recovery!!!

Good night Bobby! Check on you in the AM.

Susan A
Tampa

I hope Bobby hasn't been without visitors today, sounds like everyone is very busy with races. Congratulatons Michael, on Round Pond's performance!

Mike
I hope you are settling in, I'm so glad your recovery has brought you closer to home and family. I continue to pray for your full recovery.

The Fog
I pray you stay comfortable and strong as God shrinks those tumors. And I pray for continued wisdom for your special people and doctors.

Bobby
I hope you're comfy in you new cast and that it is a good fit. I thank God that Dr. R. is pleased with what he saw. Stay comfortable tonight and surrounded by God's protection. I pray expecting and believing there will be good reports about you in the morning.

I have many, many papers to grade, so night all .....

Thanks Alex for trying to get us more news. I was thinking NBC would put out an update but nothing. I just pray Barbaro is ok.

After reading many of the posts I did a news search and found most of the editorials "bashing" Barbaro. They easily could have said Bernadini is a great horse without making it seem like Barbaro accomplished nothing. This sounds weird but I honestly think they are jealous! Yes, jealous of a horse!

I bet they feel a bit silly today glowing about a horse beating an injured horse. Poor Cat..received absolutly no respect for actually running the more difficult race. These hroses are so brave.

Overall, the industry needs to do something because HOY may end up with the last horse standing. That is the real story of HOY..way too many good horses hurt. That is a story worth reading.

Susan E,

You too, huh? I keep telling myself this is crazy and I should forget it, but seems to me that would dishonour the girl.

Yes, I will check the website to see what I can find about Jennys and J J Jake. I'm off for today but I've made a note of it for tomorrow. Thanks so much.

Debra,

I'll let you know if I find anything more about Jennys On Radio. So far I haven't found a single photo of her. :-(

Barbaro, keep on keeping on, sweetie!

Fog, be well!

DEBRA WI - thanks for posting this fascinating/infuriating article! I consider the author very brave! ...just another reminder of why I love HORSES, not racing!
Nancy

Thanks for posting that Debra - very intersting. I'm glad something is starting to happen about all these breakdowns. I'm sure the figures will be staggering!!

Thanks, Mirth.

Hoping for the best.

Dr. Doright, who "broke down and was vanned off" per the Saratoga website, is a grandchild of Stormcat, Terlingua, Affirmed and Secretariat. I hope his fate can be learned, too.

Goodnight, Bobby...haven't heard anything about your day apart from the cast change, and everything was fine, so that's good enough for me. I'll expect lots of news about you tomorrow though...and nice and early ;-)
Sweet dreams, baby boy. I love you XOXOX

Debra in WI

Found your article profound!! Thanks for the reading....

Debra must have been posting the article while I was writing my post! Yeah, someone had the guts to say what needs to be said.

Thanks for the article, Debra. Very disturbing but necessary.

If anyone has anymore information on breakdowns not listed on the following webpage;
http://www.campaigningforbarbaro.com/In_Memory_Of...php

please email me at dlopez7@sbcglobal.net

God Bless you guys.

Also,
just for those of you who don't know, I too have a filly currently racing. I love the sport and always have however, is it so bad to want our horses to be as safe as possible?
They run as hard and as fast as they can, at times, even when injured because we ask them to.

It's time to honor them all and to "pay it forward". They all need our help.

Monica, so sorry for your loss! I didn't forget Sluggo..I kept a candle lit for him that he would have perfect days with you, the love of his life.

Glad to hear that Dr R was happy with what he saw when he changed the cast. That's gotta be good news right?

So glad to hear that Round Pond made a good showing. I'm sure Michael was happy for that.

Can't believe that Bluegrass Cat is now on the injured list. I hope it isn't serious enough for surgery.

Sweet Barbaro, I'm heading off to bed but I couldn't go without tucking you in. You're beautiful, intelligent, totally awesome and our precious baby! Keep on keeping on, champ, remember every day is another step on the road to recovery. Much hugs and smoochies, babycakes!. Rest well, dream lovely dreams and I'll see you in the morning. MWAH!

Sweet dreams, dear Barbaro! This rainy day will serve your highness by making the grass grow thick and green. Glad to hear everything went well with your cast change, and especially that the doc was pleased with what he saw. Teach your friend Blue Grass Cat the chant: HEAL, LEG, HEAL, and remember to whisper a word of encouragement to The Fog. Be strong and brave, and remember that each of us in our own way prays for you, or meditates for you, or lights candles for you...and all for the purpose of your continued healing.
Love you, big guy!
Nancy
BARBARO - CHAMPION OF MY HEART

Sweet Barbaro - have to call it an early night. I did light my candles for you, Fog, Dr R and the Jacksons. Hope your new cast is more comfy and that you have a good night. You are one day closer to being home for Christmas!

Hi Alex, thanks for the update on Round Pond. I saw a mention of her in earlier posts, but I didn't know where she finished.

It turns out she lost by a head. That's terrific for the first race after her injury. Congratulations Michael!

Just a Comment, I agree with your point about the fickleness of these writers (or was it reporters?). They change their minds faster then a speeding bullet.

Barbaro, have a great night. Will check in tomorrow.

Love ya,
Edie

Debra,

I would like to add my thanks to you for posting that article. It remains to be seen whether people will just continue to talk about this matter or finally decide to do something. I hope and pray that we can make a better future for our equine friends.

Janice

Monica..so sorry for the loss of your puppy dog.

Barbaro...have a good nite's rest! Grow Hoof Grow
Lost In The Fog...keep being strong and the Champion that you are.

Alex...Thanks for putting up with us!
Lynn

Barbaro, hope your day was as magnificent as you are!

Will be waiting for the good news tomorrow on the cast change and all the healing that you've had! You are amazing Barbaro!

Night night sweetness
xoxoxo

Believe in Miracles
Believe in Barbaro

************************************************

Monica, I'm sorry about your baby Sluggo. What a brave decision you have made, a true sacrifice on your part. Sluggo is a new star in the heavens.

*************************************************

Praying for Lost in the Fog, Mike Rea and all the others (both furry and human) who so need our prayers.

Debra in WI - enlightening article. When will enough be enough?

Edie

Tucking you in early tonight, Starshine. Places to go, etc. Sleep well and heal, baby. Be especially careful getting up and down tonight after your cast change. Dream of peppermints and unrestricted grazing! See you tomorrow after your comfortable night.

Look at the weeks you've had! You are The Champ, working his way home step by step.

Good night, Barbaromaniacs and our ever-patient Alex. Have a peaceful, enjoyable evening.

Can someone tell me where I can go for pictures of Round Pond?

Monica, so sorry for your loss.
Debra, thanks for the article.
Floridians, praying Ernesto will not be much but a rainmaker...

Fog, shrink those tumors
BCG, heal that bone
Barbaro, one day at a time, keep on healing and growing that hoof.

Prayers to all in need of them.

Go Barbaro Go!

Night from Va Beach.
Nancy:)

Debra, WI,

Many, many thanks for posting that article. Do you want to elaborate, tell us what we can do rather than just talk about it? Write to Gov. Pataki?

I would be glad to help in whatever way I can.

And I wouldn't be surprised if the author of the article "Justice for Barbaro", Micah Morrison is a woman. Hurray for her!!!

So sorry about Sluggo, Monica.

I pray you are well Barbaro......

BELIEVE IN MIRACLES
BELIEVE IN BARBARO

Lindann

Monica, I'm sorry about Sluggo, too. We have to do our best by our companions, and you did.

learntoletitgo

For pictures of Round Pond go to
www.rockportharbor.com

Barbaro-

Good news about the cast change...
you are doing great and we're all so proud.

You would probably only care about an award
if it were made out of baby carrots with greens on, peppermints (or maybe visiting t.v. reporters fingers?)...

Good night all-
Christian

Thanks, Linnie. I just saw your post. Barbaro's place in the constellation is secure!

I just wrote a letter to the editor of the NY Times regarding the legislation that is before Gov. Geo. Pataki and thanking Micah Morrison for her article about the high rate of injuries and fatalities.

I encourage others to act. Thanks!

Hello Barbaro,

It's time to put away those toys and go to bed!

I hope you're comfortable with your new cast. Alex is telling us that Dr. Richardson liked what he saw during the change. This is great news! Yea!!
May you have a restful night Barbaro. You are in my prayers every night and I cherish the news that you are comfortable. That can never be taken for granted.
Sleep well Honey. Dream only sweet dreams Barbaro. I will be right here first thing in the morning. I love you so much Barbaro. XXOO

#######
Monica so sorry to hear about Sluggo! It is hard to lose a family member!!!

Jazz- I have to say you are too FUNNY!!!
You gave me a good laugh when I read your
post on the discussion board!

Night Night Big Boy!!
Karann

##Monica --

I understand your sorrow...I have a many who crossed over and they welcomed Sluggo with warm kisses...

###Shelley A--

Thank you! Round Pond is gorgeous! Maybe Michael can still have wonderful miracles....

Continued protection and healing for Bobby and Lost in the Fog...

Thank you for the forum...I find much comfort here....

Believe in Miracles always...

Monica- I'm so sorry for your loss. Sluggo was very lucky to have you as his human pet! I just wish there was some way to lessen your heartbreak. This is so hard... Take care
jan

TO THE BARBAROMANICS:

I have been posting on this site almost since day one (with exception of the past several days when my computer was kaput, and was under repair - ended up having to buy a new one).

It has been a Godsend to find a site where folks understand how important, and what a major part of our lives our animal children are.

You all are the most kind, caring, compassionate, gentle folks that I have met. Your words of condolence over the loss of my Sluggo have given me so much comfort this evening. My heartfelt thanks to all of you - I truly appreciate your kindness and thoughts as I deal with my loss.

Monica
Fayetteville, GA

Just want to mention, Brother Derek is not a Canadian horse (he's owned by a Canadian but his home is in California), and it is unproven that he struck Barbaro from behind. Michael Matz and most people believe Bobby took a bad step. It happens. Look at Saint Liam, who was just feeling good on this way to the paddock. Horses are big animals, balanced on feet that are smaller than a human's.

We'll never know for sure what happened. But I find it hard to believe that Brother Derek struck Barbaro, and even if he did, I doubt (I'm not a physician, so I don't know) it would have caused the damage it did.

Every time someone says Brother Derek did it, it's a knife to the heart of his trainer and owner. And it very likely is not true. Very likely.

What's the point?

######
To Monica,

I wish there was something that I could say to ease your pain and sorrow. Only time will do that.

Janice

Secretariat was on the cover of Time, Newsweek, and Sports Illustrated all in the same week during his TC run in 1973.

Posted by: Kim at August 27, 2006 07:17 PM

YES, YES AND YES! HOW I REMEMBER THAT WITH LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!

Big Strong Beautiful Boy,

Hope your new cast feels good on you.

ACN's always, and just keep HEALING, HEALING AND HEALING.

Have many sweet dreams sweet one, carrots dancing, mints twirling and stud muffins rockin.

Love you XXXOOO

here are the latest computer forecast models for the hurricane. i live in miami now, and have already stocked up last month on water, batteries, peanuts and red wine (requires no refrigeration)....let's hope no one gets a direct hit and it's' just a tropical storm.

Posted by: Barbara Kerr at August 27, 2006 07:25 PM

Barbara, since you now live in Miami, why not consider joining our "Barbariannes Calder Day" on September 16th ... And this invitation is open to all Floridians who would like to celebrate Barbaro with a Day At Calder!!

Sharing sadness with you, Monica, in your loss of Sluggo. Our loving fur-friends willingly put their lives in our hands - and the responsibility of loving for them - caring for them - and making the best decisions for them is awesome, challenging and often, heartbreaking.
Sluggo has many wonderful companions to greet him and love him now - including many of my own - who have go on ahead.

Thoughts are with you.

Sherry - from Arizona

THANKS SO MUCH AGAIN, BARB AZ

Linnie, Placement of the chain is controversial. Over the nose is the best as far as I'm concerned. There is more control over the upper lip. It also acts like a twitch when placed there. In 4H, we are not allowed to place the chain over the nose. It must be under the chin. I hate it there, because it tends to make the horse rear. I don't make the rules in 4H. Hope I have helped.

Posted by: Barb AZ at August 27, 2006 09:19 PM

can someone tell me what
the ##### mean
God Bless Barbaro
God Bless YOU

###

means that someone is going to talk about something other than Barbaro.

###

Barbaro, I've been away from home all day and was surprised to hear of your cast change tonight. I will continue to pray for your recovery and I hope you new cast is comfortable. Dr R said he is happy with what he saw so that sounds good!

Also I want to thank Debra WI for her truthful, imformative post. I love going to the track, but I pray every time I go for the safety of the horses. It ruins my whole day to see a horse injured. I adopted 2 retired TBs because I wanted to give something back to them for the pleasure TB racing has brought me. I feel like they deserve a dignified retirement and both of mine have made great pets (neither is rideable). I hope I can do more in the future. Thanks Debra.

Foggy I will continue to pray for your recovery, we all love you!

####
Thanks Sally,
Does the French guy with the cats still perform at Sunset down there?

Barbaro - I'm going to bed soon - you should already be snuggled down in the straw all stretched out - admiring your new cast. Did Dr Dreamy sign it for you??? I'm sure he did. HE is on vacation this week so you won't see him too much. He is gonna be playing some golf and enjoying some well deserved time off. I'm sure he will check on you every day - but not all day. Michael will probably come by and take you out grazing in the sunshine. Or maybe you will be taking him out! I love you sweetheart and I prayer for your full recovery every day. Anyway my sweet - have a good night and I'll check in on you in the AM. XXOO and SCRATCHIES.

To Foggy - I'm sure those nasty tumors are shrinking as I write. SHRINK TUMORS SHRINK. Have a good night sweetie. XXOO and SCRACTHIES.

Aunty Sally

Just got back from Saratoga, will give some impressive Barbaro info on later posts,HOWEVER, in regard to BLUEGRASS CAT, he looked TERRIBLE just before loading into the gate. It was kind of a cool damp day,but, BGC WAS TOTALLY WASHED OUT, FROTHY AND WORE 4, YES 4 BANDAGES, SOMETHING HE NEVER DID BEFORE. I think(i'm no trainer or even close to it) but I think he was a tired animal coming into the Travers, not in top shape, I think the HASKELL win and his Triple Crown campaign really did him in..ANOTHER SAD ENDING TO A REAL WARRIOR.

It took 6 1/2 hours to get back from Saratoga tonite, normally a 3 hour ride.

I'm beat, will have some impressive stuff tomorrow to share with all of you. Spent 7 days there instead of 4...OOPS..

Good Night, sweet Barbaro.
Prayers for all who love & tend you.
Mike & family, so glad the healing is now closer to home for you.

Mike C.,

I am so sorry to hear that about BGC.

Looking forward to hearing about the good parts of your pilgrimage.

Oh Mike I'm so sorry to hear this news. Why the hell did they race him if he wasn't ready???

mike c: can't wait for your comments and insights...

Sorry to hear about BGC - classy horse with a lot of heart.

GROW HOOF GROW
SHRINK TUMORS SHRINK
Get well BGC
Keep it up, Mike R!!!!

Lisa in Co.

To all concerned;

We can make a difference together. In light of the article I posted tonight, please call or email Pataki -Gov.NY

Bonnie - please check your email! Thanks for emailing me.

Cindy - Thanks for your kind words.

MONICA - I'm so sorry for your loss, I'v lost 2 of my own in the last couple of years.
A moment of silence for SLUGGO -
::::::::::::

Mike - can't wait to hear your info tomorrow.

Night Barbaro family!!

Janice

####
yes the french guy still performs with the cats - its really amazing. Now only that but when he leaves to go home - he has a cat between his feet - no cage - a cat in a basket - can jump out at any time and the other cats in cages on the back of his scooter. That to me is the amazing part!!

I'm going to bed - the Emmy's are over.

Everyone - sleept well. I'll check in tomorrow morning.

XXO

Just got back from Saratoga (long ride in the rain with two cats, one tranquilized, one howling), and scrolled quickly through today's posts. A few thoughts:

Glad to see lots of voices in support of Bernardini, who deserves to be considered on his own merits and not in relation to Barbaro. He can only run against the horses in with him, and I think a case could be made for the mediocrity of the lot of the horses in the Derby as well, but that doesn't take away from Barbaro's performance. It's not Bernardini or Barbaro--each is remarkably accomplished, and Bernardini has just had the good fortune to be able to prove himself in ways that Barbaro didn't. He is an awesome, awesome horse.

For those still thinking about Jennys on Radio: create a DRF watch list for her, and you'll know if she works out or is entered in a race. I can tell you that she has not been entered or worked out since she last raced at Saratoga, which could mean a lot of different things.

I was at Saratoga this morning--Mr. Doright (Dr. Doright?) was third in the stretch and pulled up sharply by Luzzi, who fell/jumped off and immediately grabbed the reins so he couldn't run off--clutch move, Mike. I have to say, it didn't look out. Check out tomorrow's (Monday's) New York Post (Ed Fountaine) and Daily News (Jerry Bossert); if he broke down and was euthanized today, one of them will report it.

Sorry for the long post, and for duplicating any info--

Teresa, Brooklyn/Saratoga

Barbaro, NBC Staff, Mr. & Mrs. Jackson, Mr. Matz, Mr. Prado, et al.

It warms my heart to read of your,(Barbaro's) continued well being. It is unfortunate that it took an injury to reignite my love of horses and concern for their well being.

To the Barbaro Nation,
I don't always read or comprehend everything posted, but it makes me happy to know that I have not gone completely insane and am not alone in my love for this horse. Whew.

Kim B.

Hello Barbaromaniacs !

I have been out of the loop for a few days with out computer access- Alot to catch up on !So sad to hear about Bluegrass Cat! Hope to see him at stud ! He was one of my favs along with Funny Cide for the BC Classic!

Well Bobby, You have captured so many folks who have been inspired to do all they can for horses - !

Time is coming quickly - keep contacting your state reps and urge them to vote in support of the HR503 bill- !!! We will make a difference !

I am excited about The Fog !!!Keep on fighting Foggy !

Also excited to read Mike's letter to Bobby !!

Alex is amazing for keeping us imformed about so many things going on in the horse racing world ! Thanks Alex and Good night !

Good Night to you Bobby !
Good Night Dr.R & NBC Staff !
Good Night everyone at Fair Hill !
Good Night Barbaromaniacs!
Good Night Kennett Florist!
Good Night Mike Rea and Family !
Good Night Foggy !
Good Night Bluegrass Cat !
Good Night again Bobby ! God bless everyone !

Some portions of this article have appeared before, but it's been updated a bit. From T'bred Times, today's date.

Vet Med Expertise Gives Barbaro a Lift
by: Press Release
August 2006 Article # 7506


By Dave Jones, Dateline UCDavis

First they put Barbaro in a Kimzey ambulance. Then they put a Kimzey splint on the racehorse's broken leg. And then the colt was in an Anderson sling several hours a day.

The ambulance, splint and sling all have links to the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

"We couldn't be prouder," said veterinarian John Madigan, a professor of medicine and epidemiology, and an equine specialist in the School of Veterinary Medicine, who helped develop the Anderson sling through his work at UC Davis.

"This is veterinary medicine's finest hour. It reflects on the caring and technical aspects of our profession."

People all over the world are paying attention, hoping for Barbaro's recovery from the injury that befell him just out of the starting gate in the Preakness Stakes on May 20. Two weeks earlier, the colt won the Kentucky Derby.

Reports on Barbaro's recovery appear almost daily in national and international news. "He's probably the world's most famous horse next to Seabiscuit," Madigan said.

He actually seemed to like the sling, according to a July 16 article in Newsday. "After spending several hours out of the sling two days ago, he walked back over to it and nudged it, as if to say, 'I want back in,' " the article states, quoting one of Barbaro's assistant trainers.

Madigan described how Barbaro sits back in the sling, like a dog sitting on its rear. Sitting like this, the horse takes all its weight off its legs.

Why horses avoid lying down
The alternative is lying down, which runs against a horse's physiology and nature. If a horse lies down for too long, its muscles will cramp and the gastrointestinal system will shut down--and the animal cannot get up, Madigan explained. In the wild, lying down for even a short period puts a horse at risk of predators.

"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. The sling also is used when hoisting horses by helicopter, in rescue situations.

The sling comprises a rectangular metal structure, hoisted above a horse, and straps that hang from both sides of the structure. The straps connect to fabric that goes under the horse; buckles and snaps allow for adjustments to make the sling fit just right--holding up a horse by its skeletal system, with the animal's weight distributed evenly.

"It doesn't look that complicated, but it is," Madigan said. "Just changing a position (of a strap or buckle), you can't believe how that destabilizes a horse."

The process of developing the Anderson sling began in 1986 and took about eight years to complete. To craft the device, Madigan turned to Charlie Anderson, a welder in Potter Valley, Mendocino County, where Madigan maintained a private practice before joining the School of Veterinary Medicine. Richard Morgan, a vet med surgery technician who is now retired, also contributed to the development.

"We made over 100 modifications," Madigan said.

The Kimzey ambulance (priced at about $80,000) and leg splint ($252 to $486) are from Kimzey Welding Works Inc. in Woodland, and grew out of the company's work in the 1970s and '80s with Greg Ferraro when he was a racetrack veterinarian and president of the Southern California Equine Foundation. In 1998, Ferraro became director of the Center for Equine Health, part of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

"It is personally rewarding to see that one's efforts so many years ago are still paying dividends to the welfare of horses today," Ferraro said. "I hope that this work and the work of others will continue, as we are far from solving all the problems associated with equine performance injuries."

Ferraro noted the ambulance's two key features: A hydraulic system that lowers the door to the ground; then, after a horse is rolled onto a stretcher, a winch pulls the stretcher onto the ambulance. Or, if a horse can walk, it can enter the ambulance without having to climb a ramp.

A movable wall within the ambulance can gently squeeze a standing horse, to help it stand during transport.

The "thoroughbred of ambulances," as described in a New York Times headline on May 26, hauled Barbaro from the Pimlico track in Baltimore to the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa.

There, veterinarians had access to yet another piece of equipment from Kimzey: a large-animal surgery table, developed in consultation with UC Davis' J.D. Wheat, now a professor emeritus in the School of Veterinary Medicine. Ferraro said he later worked with Kimzey on some table modifications and accessories.

The New Bolton team put forth a "remarkable" effort, Madigan said, in performing surgery to repair three breaks in Barbaro's right rear leg.

According to New Bolton's web site, Barbaro has been recovering well both from his broken leg and a severe case of laminitis in his left hind foot--a result of favoring his right rear leg. Doctors removed about 80 percent of the horse's left rear hoof--then put him in the sling.

New Bolton has reported that Barbaro's hind hoof "is slowly showing evidence of regrowth."

#####
Hi all, I will be going to work at the emergency operations center at 0600 in the morning for Ernesto. I dont know how much I will be able to check in. Even though I know I havent posted much, I have read your posts. Hurricane season is crazy, and I have been working a 2nd job.
Wish us luck down here.
Love to Barbaro, Lost in the Fog, and get well BlueGrass Cat!

SUSAN E -
Thanks for the article!

Laura...be safe down there in Florida.

Just checking in before bedtime.

Glad to see all is well with Barbaro. Keep it up, Big B!

Am very heavy hearted to hear about Blue Grass Cat and the plane crash in Lexington.

'06 just doesn't seem like such a good year for the horses & industry. My prayers go out to all the horses, trainers, owners, grooms & other connections who have had heartbreak this year. Just isn't fair..... And I know nothing in life is, but this is a bit excessive (sp?).

Alex, thanks once again. You're an absolute Gem! I'm hoping you're tucked away having good dreams, as I know you're up before dawn! I really appreciate all you do!

Take care Barbaro family! Have a peaceful night!

Bobby, Heal Sound & Heal Strong!

-Julie

TO ALL: Sorry if posted already.:0(

PLEASE READ THE ARTICLE ONLINE AT BLOODHORSE.COM
http://news.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=35051

THE PLANE CRASHE IMPACTED THE KENTUCKY HORSE INDUSTRY!

Laura & Sally - & all others in FL,

Stay safe! Hoping Ernesto fizzles out before it reaches the US!!!!

Sweet Barbaro-Have a healing rest tonight, as you are surrounded by healing light, love & prayers. Love you Big Guy! Grow hoof, grow! Heal & fuse! Pleasant dreams & see you in the morning.XXOO

Mike Rea, Lost in the Fog, Bluegrass Cat-may angels protect & comfort you in your healing. Our prayers are with you. May God bless & heal you.

Alex, may you have a good evening & beautiful morning at Fair Hill tomorrow. You are so very appreciated. Bless you too.

####

Linnie:
It's 8... I turfed Maid M out of bed and she mumbled confirmation. She also seems to think that Barbaro would be a superior ruling planet, and that there isn't a right-thinking Scorpio in the world who wouldn't agree.

Monica:
We in Sherwood Forest offer our condolences. It's always hard to lose a furperson.

FOB:
Could we add Invasor to the dob request list?
Thanks.

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

Monica,

So sorry to hear about your boy Sluggo. My heart goes out to you...I came very close last Sunday to losing my boy, and I can appreciate how you are feeling now. Bless you and Sluggo and all who feel your loss. I'm sorry.

For information on horses that have been injured you can try the following website. They have a "What ever happened to" thread in which people exchange info regarding horses that have been injured.

http://thoroughbredchampions.com/forum/index.php?board=6.0

They even have a thread dedicated to (((Barbaro)))..imagine that....;)

Hey, buddy Barbaro,

Hope you had another comfy, "Rosy" day. You are in my thoughts constanly, and pray that our Heavenly Father will continue to hold you in his loving and healing embrace. Stay strong champ, great adventures are awaiting you as you come down the home sretch, and always remember, I be there with every step you take.

LITF, my prayers are with you, and all who love and care for you. May God's healing light restore you to perfect health, and may you follow your buddy, Barbaro on this miraculous journey.

To all of you gathered here to witness the miracles taking place, I offer my heartfelt gratitude for letting me be a part of this Love for Barbaro.

Blessings, to you all!
Faith

Can't wait to hear Mike C's info tomorrow. I feel bad for BGC but at least his injury is not life threatening.

Good night champion Barbaro. We love you so much. Thank you for all you've done.

Ashley

Mike C.,

I just saw your post on BGC - was wondering the same thing. It was 69 degrees and he was all lathered up - not a great sign.... - he just didn't look on top of his game. I taped the races (was at our local spca telethon, volunteering) and watched the race again this evening and noticed BGC really didn't look right - in addition to his lather.

Unfortunately, hindsight is 20/20.

Just hope he's got a long, comfortable life ahead of him!

Dear Monica,
My heartfelt sympathies in your loss of Sluggo. I know that empty sad feeling. You will see your dear Sluggo again, of this I am sure. He is surely waiting & watching over you, as he loves you so very much too. You and Sluggo are in my thoughts & prayers. I am so sorry for your great loss.
Cheryl in upstate NY

######

DEBRA, THANKS FOR POSTING THAT- I PRETTY MUCH FIGURED SOMEONE IN THE HORSE RACING INDUSTRY WOULD BE EFFECTED SINCE THE ACCIDENT WAS IN LEXINGTON. I DON'T WANT TO GET DEPRESSED BEFORE BED, SO I'LL READ IT TOMORROW. THANKS FOR POSTING THE ARTICLE -- SO SAD!!!

LOVE & PRAYERS FOR BOBBY, FOGGY AND EVERYONE!!!
SLEEP TIGHT SWEET BARBARO, HOPE YOUR NEW CAST FEELS GOOD AND FITS WELL. I'M SENDIND YOU POSITIVE HEALING ENERGY. I LOVE YOU!!! :>)

CHERYL G
INDY

Laura in the Keys,

Good luck to you and everyone else down there, be you human, feathered or furred. I hope this 'cane gives you a pass.

Monica,

So sorry about Sluggo - I had to go through it twice in the last three years, so I know the absolute emptiness you feel right now. It's the hardest thing to do, but know he's in a better place and watching over you. He'll always be with you!!

-Julie

I've been reading everybody's posts today and I sure am thankful to Alex for this incredible website!! Sally, from Key West, you crack me up every day!

To LITF - you are a beautiful spirit! Keep fighting, Champ!

Was happy to hear that Round Pond had a good race. Michael is so awesome! He deserves to have lots of Champs like Pond to train. Hope he gets to visit Bobby lots this week so Bobby can walk him!

It's time for bed, so good-nite, sweet Barbaro! I'm so glad you had another successful cast change. I'll bet Dr. R visits a lot this week, even though he's on vacation. He's so crazy about you! Give him a break w/ the nipping if he doesn't break par, OK? Sweet dreams to the Horse of the Century.

I love you, beautiful boy! Judy

Have a restful, healing night Barbaro. Sweet dreams beautiful boy! Kisses, hugs and nuzzlies to you.

There will be miracles...
when you believe.

Thank you God for Bobby's right and perfect healing, and for his complete recovery. Thank you God that miracle follows miracle, and wonders never cease.

Magnificent Steed! Another day closer.

The LIGHT of God surrounds you
The LOVE of God enfolds you
The POWER of God Protects you
The PRESENCE of God watches over you
Wherever you are Bobby, God IS.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

dear barbaro, you are the horse of this decade...and i consider your sacrifice and what you endure with such grace ,strength and dignity to be what a champion is all about-and i get to bare witness to this moment..this time of that day when barbaro entered the world of horse racing in a big way..un a glorious way..
. i thank the wonderful folks who are stepping up mm.wall street journal , and others in this series of posts who get what this horse has done for the future improvement of horse raicng in america.=
.a higher standard of RESPECT AND PROTECTION for THESE GREAT ANIMALS --who DESERVE.the best we can offer for heavens sake.WHAT IS IT GOIGN TO TAKE..after such a tragedy ,what will it take to get people to get it??
.a horse that is loved will run so much better..how greedy,cruel and unethical..boy will karma catch up.. to run a horse into the ground.
.how pathertic and how reflective of greed over humanity. .t
hey earn their owners millions and they deserve the best.
.they do have souls and the jacksons understand this along wiht folks like shelley,alex,tim and so many more and then there is michael matz who i send support praise and prayers.=. to heal his heart - i remmember what he said on the morning of the kentucky derby..that once in a lifetime you may meet a horse like barbaro..and of course you want his legacy to have a chance to be fulfilled-he must not blame himself..fate intervened-- whether brother derek--meaning his jockey..had the reins-- clipped him or what ever, who ever may have wished him not well or not, we are dealing wiht the tragedy and we want barbaro to feel our love and uncondtional support.
.so he can live wiht us..and be in peace, pain free..may he be spared.
.michael-- his high sense of responsibility.--may you find peace and know that horse loves you too..so much-
you have a communion wiht him..
.barbaro, ,you bring to light what awful tragedies have befallen your nation and it is about time that this country steps up and treats these horses wiht dignity and less GREED.. it makes me hysterical to hear about years of abuse and cruel racing with injuries--and a side bar..does anyone know whay old salt number two at the trav=cers whihc i taped as i cant watch a horse race first hand--why he acted up and was so sppoked ..did osomeone get him all hyped up and how about teh secret undietected steroids some trainers here in nyc have doped thier horses??????we need higher standards of drug testing..it has ome to that...
this site is full of love and hope for the best ..for the voices of those horses and all other animals that cant speak up.for themselves.
.may sluggo rest in peace. may fog keep on and bluegrass who ran perhaps compormised look what he gave..and the list goes on..so dear bobby,
sleep ,heal well great barbaro..like no other beyond any year of the horse award.
.bless bernadini
that he hasnt gotten hurt and that the dark side of the racing woirld does not compromise the elegance of the sport as it was intended..
.may it be eventually overruled..by the light..by values by all the beauty.
.horses exemplify.
.their hearts beating as their hooves pound down the tracks in all weather conditions..all for the call of their masters...lord, give us peace and strength ..to stand by this great horse and the great folks working around the clock to bring him forward.
bless em all and all of you ,who love and care..thank god..
alex, get rest .we thank you so deeply for all yuo do. bobby hears it all
i am sure..
martita..

Re: JENNYS ON RADIO -- Mirth & Susan E, I was the original poster who was at the race in Saratoga where Jennys fell. She was far back enough in the field that the replay just showed a bit of her tumble. She was vanned off, but the announcer said she had gotten up and walked on her own after she fell. I saw the track vet packing his bag into the car, a good, yet sobering sight.

I have looked for news to post -- and emailed an Albany news reporter a week ago who reports on the meet -- and have not heard anything. If I do I will post. Thanks all for holding Jennys in your thoughts. I feel the 50:1 horses are just as valuable, in the grand scheme, as those whose jockeys don't have to wear goggles in the rain. We know there's fun in the betting, and keeping the nose in the program, but there is also plenty of passion to be found keeping your eyes on the horses and your heart open as they run.

A moment of respect for the long shots. Not only do they deserve it, from time to time, they surprise us. -- Peace, Susan in Saratoga

MONICA, I'M SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS- GETTING CHOCKED UP AGAIN HERE. NOW YOU HAVE AN ANGEL WATCHING OVER YOU FULL TIME. I WILL DEFINITELY SAY A PRAYER AND LIGHT A CANDLE FOR YOU.

I'M SO SORRY,
LUV,
CHERYL G
INDY

XXXX

Re: Sluggo. Monica, I am so sorry. If it is any comfort, there are many standing with you now. Of all the things we do for our animals, it is doing this compassionate act that's the hardest. And the finest. Hang in there.

Five years ago I walked that road with a beloved black Lab. He was almost 16. We'd had thousands of miles together on the canoe trails of the NE and Canada. He was a great dog. It took four years to be ready, but one day this song appeared. If these lyrics offer you any comfort, think of them as coming from the dog who may have helped yours settle in to his new "digs" today. -- Peace, Susan in Saratoga

RAINBOW BRIDGE

c 2005 Flood Wood Music

Now some people tell us

There's a rainbow bridge

With all you good fellows

I don't know much 'bout this

But this I am sure of

As the sky meets the sea

As the sun calls the morning

To the mysteries

In the water I'll see you

In the rock and the wind

In the night on the river

As the Milky Way spins

In the love of the living

As the new ones begin

For the time we were given

I thank you again

Bridge:

Younger than the sun

Older than the sea

Now we've just begun

To be the mysteries

For there's joy in the starting

With comrade and friend

And the time comes for parting

We'll say this again

A toast to the old ones

Who call us their friend

A toast to the old ones

No beginning, no end

Fare thee well to the old ones

We'll see you again


Fare thee well to you, old one

We thank you again.

XXX

Monica,

I am so sorry for your loss. I understand your pain and the void in your heart. Everytime I've had to say goodbye, I've sworn to myself that I will never get another because part of me dies with them. But somehow, when the time is right, another comes along and steals my heart.

Know that you did the right thing. Sluggo is grateful for your courage and love. Someday you'll be together again.

Barbaro and all lovers of him who is healing so well!

Enjoy reading all posts, both uplifting and with saddness included, sorry for your loss Monica.

Each of us wishes Bobby great healing as do I,and to all his care givers, I thank you for sharing with the rest of us, Alex , you especially.

Soon I will be treking eastward to South Carolina and be closer to NBC. Perhaps I will be able to come and visit the great one when he is grazing in pastures green!

Good night and sweet dreams of carrots and apples and pepermint sweets!

Monica,

I'm saddened to tears hearing about Sluggo. I am so sorry. He depended on you to be brave for both of you in the darkest hour, and you came through for him. You were giving to the very last, but it is not the end. Sluggo surely knows what you did for him was a unimaginable sacrifice, but you saw through your tears what was best for sweet Sluggo. I am sure Sluggo is very proud of you Monica. You comforted him all the way. You will be reunited for all of eternity. Monica and Sluggo remain in my day-end meditation. Peace be with you both,

Joyce Moore 6:19 - I concur. CJ in Hammond IN

Good-night dear BARBARO...
So thankful your cast-change went well,and Dr R. was pleased...

Good to hear about Mr Matz and Round Pond!

So sad for you Monica.

God bless BARBARO!

Lovehugs,
Linda A
Oregon

martita - your posts leave me speechless. so beautiful.

I visited Golden Gate Fields today. I loved the horses, the racing, always with my heart in my mouth, grateful for no incidents. Not to be.

In the last race, a beautiful young two year old in his first race, in a race with four other young first racers and two with 1 and 3 races, respectively, was next to one of the novices who had a problem in the gate and was scratched. The race was delayed while the jockeys had gotten off and then on, but when the gates opened the young colt, Comic Review, was squeezed by two horses and veered off to the left, hit and flew over the rail, landing in a heap. His jockey was thrown but fine, and the horse struggled to his feet and ran a short distance down the track. He was quietly corralled but was limping, and my friend with Arabians feels he did not suffer life threatening injuries (please!). The simulcast videos were playing in the stands, and the sight was horrifying of him flying through the air. Free videos are available for all GGF races, but they have not yet posted this Race 9 video, although the others were up by the time I returned home. I will call tomorrow to find out how he is, and will also know if they are more responsive than other tracks we have contacted for similar information.

Please remember Comic Review in your prayers and candles for (I believe) healing... I will let you know what I hear. Right now I have to believe.

Believe in Barbaro, Horse of Our Year
Fight for Fog!

Monica, Sluggo was The Best Dog Ever. He was. We share your pain and grief.

He will be welcomed by Curry, Cinnamon, Bogart, Slim, Coffee, Cassie - good dogs, all.

Good Early Morning Champ!! So sorry I have been away this weekend. And you had a cast change to boot!! I hope its nice and snug and fits as good as the last. Love you lots big guy, can't wait for your morning update, I have missed you terribly!

xoxoxox

Invasor (d.o.b. 03/08/02)