Barbaro updates 554 - 408

Update 554: Horsetalk from New 
Zealand continues to be one of the most persistant online sites with 
Barbaro updates: Barbaro injuries 
highlight need for laminitis research.  Again they cited this site re: 
yesterday's cast change.  If you look at their homepage Barbaro has his 
own section of the site.  Awesome!

Update 553: Just spoke to Peter Brette, and while he was unable to visit 
Barbaro today he had heard from Michael who had visited, and all remains 
well.  He also noted that Round Pond appeared to come out of yesterday's 
fine effort in good shape.  

An interesting poll question has been posed on the discussion board: Have 
you started watching more horseracing because of Barbaro?.

Update 552: Thank you Cecil Whig for the lovely front page article: Online 
outpouring of support for Barbaro.  

I asked Michael this morning if Dr. Richardson had finally gone away for a 
few days (this was after Michael had given me the morning report).  
Michael said he had, and he also said he had told Dr. Richardson that 
given he was away on vacation there really was no need for the morning 
updates.  They then wondered a little about what I would do ?  So I guess 
(and HOPE) Dr. Richardson will still be calling in the reports!

Finally, something I had meant to get to for a little while, Mercy T. had 
a great idea to support Mike 
Rea, it is posted on the discussion board: A 
Barbarian Response to MikeRea's Letter.  All feedback and support 
would obviously be welcome!

Update 551: Dave Wallace (Tom Albertrani's assistant) just called to give 
us a quick update on Bernardini.  A few things about the Travers itself.  
When they were leading Bernardini over for the Travers he was very cool, 
calm and collected.  Dave said it was very impressive to see considering 
his youth and all the attention he was getting.  After the Travers, 
leaving the test barn (all winners and some other runners are tested after 
a race to check for drugs etc.) he was bouncing and was very full of 
himself, as Dave noted, just proud of himself.    Dave also mentioned 
Bernardini's reaction to Javier Castellano's light tap of the whip with 
his left hand ... which caused Bernardini to swish his tail and pin his 
ears, almost as if Bernardini was wondering what the problem was since he 
was winning so easily at that point! (I think I noted something similar in 
my update directly after the race.)

Anyway, Dave said he has come out of the race in great shape.  He will 
hand walk around the shedrow for a few days (probably about three days) 
before he goes back to the track and starts training again.  I will plan 
to follow up with Dave later in the week to see how he is progressing.

Update 550: New Bolton Center's press release concerning yesterday's cast 
change: Barbaro has cast change:

Veterinarians at Penn's George D. Widener Hospital changed the right hind 
leg cast of Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro yesterday, Sunday, August 27.  
"The cast was changed because there was a small crack in it," said Dr. 
Dean W. Richardson, Chief of Surgery.  "Based on new radiographs that were 
taken, the leg looked excellent under the cast.  The pastern joint looks 
completely fused, and there is only a small area in the long pastern bone 
that has a little farther to go before we take him out of the cast 
completely."

In addition, the radiographs showed that there were no signs of infection.  
The cast change took place under general anesthesia, and Barbaro had 
another successful pool recovery before returning to his stall.

The colt's left hind foot has laminitis, but Barbaro seems comfortable 
with that foot as well.  The bandage on the left hind foot continues to be 
changed daily.

According to Dr. Richardson: "Barbaro is bright and happy this morning 
with an excellent appetite."

Barbaro remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the University of 
Pennsylvania's George D. Widener Hospital, where he is recovering from 
injuries suffered at the Preakness on May 20.

The next update will be posted on Tuesday, September 5 unless there is a 
significant change in Barbaro's condition.

Update 549: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (sunday 
night). Just spoke to Michael Matz behind the gate. He said that 
everything looked good after the cast change yesterday. He expressed that 
everyone seemed happy with Bobby's progress. 
updated monday 8:15am

Update 548:  The New York Times has the following article: Bernardini 
and Barbaro: A Rivalry That Wasn't that does a nice job of 
highlighting both horses' accomplishments without make sweeping statements 
on who is the better.  I also like the note of comparison with Cigar from 
Tom Albertani.  He should know as he is closely connected to both horses.  
I think that comparison just illustrates that this year we have been 
blessed with superb 3yos.

A quick recap from the races yesterday.  We know Round Pond was a very 
close second, here is another report: Promenade Girl wins Molly 
Pitcher.  Stormy Kiss (Jackson owned, Tagg trained) was third in the 
Ballerina: Dubai Escapade 
takes Ballerina and George Washington (Jackson bred) was third O'BRIEN 
UPBEAT DESPITE GEORGE DEFEAT after a slow start.  

Next weekend we will focus on the Woodward at Saratoga.  Funny Cide is 
scheduled to run, he breezed 5/8ths in 1:00 in preparation for the race 
last thursday: Funny Cide 
Preps for Woodward With Bullet Work, an excerpt:

"I thought the track was slow, but safe," Tagg said. "He really worked 
well over it. I thought it was a serious workout for him. But we wanted to 
be safe with him because he's going to run for big money next Saturday."

I am not sure when this morning's Barbaro update will occur.  If Dr. 
Richardson is indeed on vacation it may be a little later, but he may well 
still be providing Michael his morning update, I just don't know.


Update 547: Round Pond was a very close second in her first start for 
Michael Matz: PROMENADE 
GIRL HEADS ROUND POND IN G2 MOLLY PITCHER AT MONMOUTH; GOTTCHA GOLD, 
PRETTY IMPOSING TRIUMP.  Excerpt:

"She ran a good race considering she's been out so long," Matz said. "I 
was disappointed with the result, but I was pleased with her."

Bravo said, "I wish we had faster fractions. It was her first race in a 
while. She had her nose in front at the eighth pole. She ran a winning 
race."

I just spoke to Peter and they were pleased with her effort.  He thinks 
she will come along a lot for the race.  Unfortunately I did not get to 
see the race.  I don't have a Barbaro update this evening, and since Peter 
and Michael were at Monmouth its unlikely I'll get one later.  Peter 
reiterated to me Dr. Richardson's positive report from this morning.    

This site will be featured in the Cecil Whig tomorrow, I think on the 
front page, celebrating 100 days since the Preakness.

Update 546: Just spoke to Peter Brette, who was driving up to Monmouth 
when I called.  The cast change has been completed and Dr. Richardson was 
happy with what he saw.  I don't have any other details, but thought that 
was good enough for me for now!

Update 545: Bluegrass Cat is now retired: Bluegrass Cat 
Retired Due to Pastern Injury.  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".

Update 544: Just spoke to Michael Matz.  They are planning to replace 
Barbaro's cast today on his right hind.  While this was not something we 
had anticipated, I think it is basically because Dr. Richardson is 
planning a few days off early next week, and wanted to get this done 
before he was able to relax.  It has been a few weeks since the previous 
cast change, so that makes sense to me.  Once I hear anymore after the 
cast change, I will let you know.

On the racing front today, we have two fillies races to focus on and a 
european race.  I was talking to Michael as he was getting ready for Round 
Pond's debut at Monmouth.  Apparently there is a scratch and it is now a 
five horse field for the Grade 2 Molly Pitcher:  Round Pond back to 
races.  The Jackson's Stormy Kiss, trained by Barclay Tagg, is running 
in the Grade 1 Ballerina Stakes at Saratoga: Dubai 
Escapade looking to wire 'em.  Finally, the Jackson bred George 
Washington is running at Goodwood: George Washington 
returns after a three month absense.  He won 2,000 Guiness at 
Newmarket on May 6.  This is considered one of the English Classics (like 
a Triple Crown race).  You can imagine that was an amazing weekend for the 
Jackson's.

Update 543: Today's Barbaro morning update will be delayed.  I will try to 
have something by lunchtime, it was just hard to get started this morning! 

Another lovely Tribute to Saint 
Liam, this one by Jessica Frank.  We also have great news from Mike 
Rea, he has moved closer to Fair Hill: We're Back!.

It was great racing yesterday, and a great show from ESPN which included 
pieces on Barbaro, Lost in the Fog, Saint Liam, as well as the recorded 
win of Discreet Cat from the day before.  Here are a couple more Travers 
reports: Bernardini 
seizes control and Bernardini 
streaks to impressive Travers score. 


Update 542: The Bloodhorse are the first with a Travers race report: Bernardini 
Bounds Away in Travers, which includes the following excerpt:

Trainer Tom Albertrani said afterward that Bernardini would shoot for the 
Jockey Club Gold Cup (gr. I) at Belmont Park Oct. 7 next. Looming, of 
course, is the $4 million Breeders' Cup Classic Powered by Dodge (gr. I).

Before a crowd of 40,785, Castellano drove Bernardini to the lead heading 
into the clubhouse turn when he appeared he might get trapped behind Todd 
Pletcher-trained entrants High Cotton, who led coming out of the gate, and 
Bluegrass Cat on the outside. That proved to be the winning move as 
Bernardini overtook High Cotton easily and set a realistic pace while 
Bluegrass Cat stalked.

That's the way they ran until the head of the final turn when Bernardini 
responded to hand urging from Castellano to begin to pull away. Bluegrass 
Cat tried to stick but by the time the pair hit the top of the lane, it 
was clear that it was all over. Castellano gave Bernardini a light tap of 
the whip left-handed at the eighth pole but otherwise allowed his charge 
to run out.

I assume that light tap with the whip was when Bernardini swished his tail 
(as if to say, are you kidding me ?)  It was very impressive.  It is 
racings loss we were never able to see Barbaro and Bernardini compete.  I 
am sure that is something both horses' connections would have truly wanted 
to witness (and have been quoted as such).  Two great horses, no matter 
who wins end of year honors.  Of course Discreet Cat might make it three!

Update 541: A sublime performance from Bernardini.  Congratulations to 
Dave Wallace, Tom Albertrani and the rest of the crew, and thanks for 
providing us some insight coming up to this huge race.

Update 540: Just spoke to Peter (5:30 pm) and he had heard from Michael, 
Barbaro remains comfortable.   A quick reminder of the vigil planned for 
tonight, 7 pm east coast time, where ever you are, whatever you are doing, 
spare some thoughts for Barbaro and the Fog!  

Update 539: Quick Fog update: Lost in the Fog 
Given 'Reasonable Chance'.  An excerpt:

The doctor treating sprint champion Lost in the Fog for cancerous tumors 
said Friday that the colt has "a reasonable chance" of reducing them to a 
size that's conducive for chemotherapy or surgery.

Dr. Gary Magdesian, chief of equine medicine at University of California 
at Davis, said Friday that Lost in the Fog is being treated with 
Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid sometimes used in treating lymphoma.

"We want to see if (the tumors) will respond to the extent that they are 
reduced to a size that will make them amenable to surgery or 
chemotherapy," Magdesian said

Steve Willard left me a voice mail.  Giacomo is doing fine after his race 
in the Pacific Classic.  He went back to the track a couple of days ago 
and is training lightly.  They are training him lightly and will take it 
one day at a time and see how he goes.   I'll follow up with Steve in a 
week or so and see what their plans are.  Just good to hear he is back to 
the track after the race.

Update 538: Just spoke to Tim, who was in the National Museum of Horse 
Racing (Saratoga).  Barbara Livingston was doing a book signing as we 
talked, and there are pictures of Barbaro for sale.  Tim was able to get 
on the backside of the racetrack this morning thanks to another trainer.  
He said all was quiet and calm before the big day of racing.  The main 
track closed early (9 am), and people were putting their final 
preparations in place.  He was positioned close to Bernadini's barn, but 
did not venture over in order to maintain their privacy.  The weather 
should be good for racing, Tim said its a little cloudy, with intermittent 
showers, but pretty pleasant.  He saw Steve Klesaris briefly last night, 
which reminds me, Master of Disaster (another Fair Hill trainee) is 
running in The King's Bishop, the race prior to the Travers.  

A couple of nice pre-Travers articles.  The first:  
A midsummer dream dashed: Prado, others wonder what Barbaro could have 
become, includes the following excerpts:

"Like they say, faith is the last thing you want to lose," Prado said 
Thursday. "The doctors had faith, and they continued to work real hard to 
make this happen. He's become one of the most popular horses ever."

and

"We always thought he was a great horse and who knows how good he could 
have been," Barbaro trainer Michael Matz said from Maryland. 
"Unfortunately, we'll never get the chance to see. I guess it just wasn't 
meant to be.

"But it would have been great to see them race. Bernardini looks like a 
real good horse and it just would have been great for the racing public."

The racing public and the animal-loving public continue to heap affection 
on Barbaro as he continues his gallant struggle.

"I think there are thousands of people who have been keeping the faith for 
him," Matz said. "The response, the outpouring, everything, and things are 
still coming in every day. Fruit baskets, signs, cards. It's really 
unbelievable the support people have given."

The second article: Bernardini? 
Bluegrass Cat? Travers will decide.  The following is an excerpt:

As one of the most lightly raced Triple Crown race winners in modern 
times, Bernardini's sensational 5 1/4-length Preakness score was 
overshadowed by Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro's life-threatening breakdown 
100 yards after the start.

"Understandably and deservedly so," Jimmy Bell, president of Darley USA, 
said of the emphasis on Barbaro. "Barbaro was, and is, a very unique and 
gifted horse. ... (Bernardini) has gone on about his business, and both 
horses are writing different scripts, and I think both are champions." 

Update 537: Another comfortable night for Barbaro (friday night). Saw 
Michael Matz coming back from my second set this morning and he reported 
the good news. Also, just a reminder that tonight will be another vigil at 
7pm so wherever you are, whatever you're doing...spare a few thoughts for 
Barbaro and the Fog.
updated saturday 8:20am

Update 536: A moving tribute to 2005 Horse of the Year, St. 
Liam, by Melissa Harden (at my gentle request).

Update 535: Those closest to Barbaro are to receive some well deserved 
awards: National Turf 
Writers to Honor 'Team Barbaro' The following are excerpts:

"Team Barbaro" -- the group of Barbaro himself, owners Roy and Gretchen 
Jackson, trainer Michael Matz, assistant trainer and exercise rider Peter 
Brette and jockey Edgar Prado -- will receive the Mr. Fitz Award during 
the 47th annual NTWA Awards Dinner on Nov. 1 at The Olmstead in 
Louisville, Ky.

and

Richardson and the New Bolton Center will receive the Joe Palmer Award, 
named for the former New York Herald Tribune turf writer and presented 
annually for meritorious service to racing.

Round Pond is now ready for her return on sunday: Round Pond back to 
races.  The following is an excerpt:

"It's always nice to have a horse of her quality," Matz said. "She's a 
real nice horse to be around, and she showed it last year in her 
3-year-old season. John did a real nice job with her, and hopefully we can 
continue."




Round Pond is 6 for 8 lifetime, including a win in the Grade 1 Acorn 
Stakes at Belmont Park last year.

Round Pond shows five workouts this summer, with two on wood chips, at the 
Fair Hills training center in Maryland.

"She's come back good," Matz said. "She's had a long time in between 
races. We're happy with the way she's working. We're happy with her feet 
right now, and hopefully that will continue."

Today is of course a big day for three year olds, the Travers: Travers 
Analysis: Pletcher and the Accidental Rabbits, but lets not forget 
Graham Motion has Sweet Talker running on the undercard.  Tim has gone up 
for the weekend, so hopefully he will provide some first hand reports.  
Today's Barbaro morning update may be a little later this morning, just an 
FYI. 
 
Update 534: Just spoke to Peter.  He had just spoken to Michael who 
visited Barbaro this afternoon.  The report remains the same.  Michael 
took Barbaro out for a walk. 

It looks like Edgar will plan another visit to see Barbaro when he returns 
from Saratoga: One 
ride enough to impress Prado:

It is times like this when Prado really misses Barbaro, who had won all of 
his starts before the Preakness. Prado said he keeps in contact frequently 
with Michael Matz, the trainer of Barbaro, and with the colt's owners, Roy 
and Gretchen Jackson. Prado said when the Saratoga meet ends he plans to 
take another trip to the New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa., to 
visit Barbaro.

"I miss him overall because he was a special horse who ran good races," 
Prado said. "Knowing that his life is in jeopardy, I'm always thinking of 
him and hope that he continues on the road to recovery."

Update 533: Upenn's thank you site includes more pictures of Dr. 
Richardson's birthday celebrations: Thank 
You.  It includes the following caption:

Thank you to everyone who helped contribute to the wonderful party 
celebrating Dr. Richardson's birthday. He was truly touched and honored by 
the generosity of the Barbaromaniacs in making this a special occasion.

The "Barbaro Effect" continues, this time: Barbaro Injury 
Highlights Need for Laminitis Research Funding.  The article 
concludes:

While Barbaro and his doctors wage battle against laminitis, hundreds of 
additional horses will be diagnosed with the disease each day. Funding 
laminitis research is vital to unraveling the unanswered questions about 
the disease and developing reliable preventative and therapeutic measures, 
for all of the equine population.

Finally, Discreet Cat got his US racing account underway.  I had thought 
of highlighting him as a horse to follow going into today's race, but we 
seem to already have a few to focus on.  Anyway, Discreet Cat was an 
undefeated winner of the UAE Derby (Dubai) who has been in the US ever 
since.  They have had a few niggling problems with him and finally got him 
to the races this afternoon at Saratoga: The Cat is 
Back; UAE Derby Winner Romps at Saratoga.  He may well contend for 
year end honours in the three year old division.

Update 532: Dr. Richardson posted a thankyou note to everyone (timestamp: 
7:55pm):

Kathy Freeborn at the admissions desk here at NBC told me that this 
website was the best place to respond to the truly extraordinary birthday 
that I was given today at noon! To all of you who gave to the Barbaro fund 
and to me personally, I am deeply grateful. I don't claim to be a humble 
person (no one will argue that one too much!) but it is profoundly 
humbling and intimidating to be responsible for a patient that has this 
much love going his way. I am very grateful that there is so much concern 
out there for Barbaro (sorry, I cannot bring myself to call him 
Bobby......)and I assure you all that we all will continue to do our best 
for him. As you all know, he is a very special horse.

THANK YOU ALL.

Update 531:  Kennett Florist have just returned from NBC with this 
birthday report:

OK Gang, take a breath... We're back from NBC!!

The "party" was a huge success! Dr R was very surprised to which he stated 
"it's not my birthday". We told him "today it is!" He was overwhelmed with 
the gifts, cards, flowers and all that had been sent. I am forwarding the 
pictures to Alex and he can hopefully post a couple.

We got there just before 11:30 to set everything up. We were in a more 
secluded area. We had the gifts and flowers laid out over two tables with 
the cakes and ice cream. The carrot cake from Bobby had two big carrots on 
the top, and the choc/vanilla cake had a picture of Bobby (from one of his 
first times out grazing) with green and blue trim on the white frosting.

Dr Sweeney had told Dr Richardson that they were going to have a meeting 
at 12:00 and she made sure we were ready when she went to meet him. She 
had notified a bunch of people so there would be plenty there to yell 
surprise. (Unfortunately, Mr and Mrs Jackson were unable to attend.) Dr 
Sweeney told us when she was going to get him and we lit the candles... He 
was very surprised. He blew out his candles and started to cut the cakes 
(the one thing he said he knew how to do). Dr Sweeney and Alie took over 
on cake duty and I dished out the ice cream so the man of honor could 
enjoy his cake and open some presents. He was overwhelmed by the gifts. 
Because of your contributions, we were able to get substantial gift 
certificates to two very nice restaurants here in town, theater tickets 
(gift certificate), three different golf course gift certificates that he 
can use either for greens times, the pro shop, or the restaurants, a 
packet of golf cart tickets for the golf course he belongs to, as well as 
a gift certificate to the pro shop at that same course. We also made up a 
very large gourmet basket of goodies; swiss chocolates, pastas and gourmet 
sauces, plates, glasses, napkins... the works. It even had a special box 
of note cards with a big brown bay on the front. We decked the place out 
with baloons (including one that sang Happy Birthday)! The triple crown 
arrangement was a huge hit... he really liked the idea of that. All in all 
it was absolutely wonderful. Thank you so much for letting us be a part of 
this, you all have been so generous and sweet to talk to, email, etc.

And of course, Bobby had some baskets of carrots and his favorite treats! 
They called us this morning asking if we were bringing carrots, so we 
loaded the big guy up good!

Also, almost forgot... We made up a big "publisher's clearinghouse" type 
check from the Barbaromaniacs, made out to UPenn Barbaro Fund in honor of 
Dr Richardson. Dr Sweeney presented him with the check that was made out 
for $3,851.00 to date. We let him know that others are donating on or 
closer to his birthday! You all are amazing!!!!

WE BELIEVE!!!

Alie, Rachel and the gang at Kennett Florist

Congratulations to everyone who contributed, amazing.

Update 530: Dave Wallace (Tom Albertrani's assistant) just called and 
reported all systems are a go for Bernardini for tomorrow's Travers.  
Bernardini did much the same today as he did yesterday, galloping a mile 
and a quarter after jogging back a half a mile and then jogging forward.  
While Dave does not gallop Bernardini he does gallop Balletto, their 
runner today in the Grade 1 
Personal Ensign.  He said she is doing well, acting like she did when 
she went into her last race (a close second in the Go For Wand).  Its a 
small field, and Todd Pletcher's horse (Fleet Indian) is the obvious 
concern and clear betting favourite.

Update 529: My morning galloping was a little messed up in terms of horses 
to ride, so Tim put me on three extra, which turned out to be quite cool.  
The first was Randy's Bullet, who I had not ridden for a long time.  We 
went out back and jogged the hills (the ground really needs the rain) and 
I met a fox on my way home.  The second was Gator Nation. Some of you 
wondered if he was OK, since he was scratched from a race at Laurel.  Yes, 
he's in great form, galloped a mile and a half and went very well.  The 
reason for the scratch ?  He was on the "also eligible" list, thus not in 
the main body of the race.  He did not draw in (no scratches) and was thus 
a scratch himself.  Finally I rode Something Wild, galloped him a mile, 
and he went well.  As he was training Michael Matz and Peter Brette had 
Round Pond out training (we were all on the dirt track).  She surely is a 
good looking filly, and is getting ready to run very soon.

More coverage on Lost in the Fog: Lost 
in the Fog undergoing treatment to shrink tumors, which includes the 
following:

"He's doing well. I was just giving him a handful of carrots a minute 
ago," Gilchrist said from his barn at Golden Gate Fields on Thursday 
evening. "We are treating him to try to shrink the tumors he has.

"If we could do that, they would become operable, and then he would have a 
chance. We've gone to a little more drastic measures using a few drugs 
that we didn't have before."

Gilchrist said Lost in the Fog will undergo a sonogram in ten to 12 days 
to check on his progress. In the meantime, Lost in the Fog is living in 
his stall, eating, and walking twice a day, much like a normal horse.

Update 528: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (thursday 
night).  Just saw Michael Matz as I was going to the track on my third set 
(on Chappy), he had heard from Dr. Richardson.  Its a muggy morning at 
Fair Hill, and we have not had the rain that seemed to be in the forecast 
(yet).  
update 7:35 am, friday, august 25

Update 527: This Baltimore Sun article provides further details on the 
current status of Barbaro: Barbaro's 
surgeon pleased with colt's progress and reveals the left hind hoof 
has grown a centimeter, excerpt:

Richardson said Barbaro's hoof has grown about one centimeter since the 
hoof wall was removed in early July and his broken right leg has healed 
well enough that without the left-foot laminitis, he would be out of the 
cast.

A nice Sports Illustrated article on Michael Matz: What 
could've been...
As Barbaro fights for life, Matz reflects on fateful day.  A short 
excerpt:

Matz is a competitor, a three-time Olympic equestrian. "It hurts to be 
standing on the sideline,"' he says. "I wish I could send Barbaro out 
there to run. I can't, and I have to accept that we were lucky to have him 
as long as we did.'"

And finally: Barbaro casts 
long shadow over Travers: Injured horse has greatly boosted sport with 
incredible will to survive.  I think this site confirms the subheader.  
I enjoyed this excerpt:

In essence he is much more. Barbaro is a horse who continues to 
demonstrate what it means to be a thoroughbred. Intelligent and strong, 
showing a will to live beyond anything we've seen in four decades of 
watching horses do what they were bred to do.

Barbaro's struggle for survival has provided inspiration for Internet 
poets and his daily regimen has been chronicled nightly on network 
broadcasts whenever newsworthy developments arose.




Update 526: Kathy Anderson called and she had visited Barbaro a little 
later in the afternoon (she left about 5:30 pm).  She was there as Dr. 
Richardson had Barbaro out grazing.  All was well.  She did note Bobby saw 
a goat on his way back into his stall which interested him.  Kathy also 
noted that Bobby is weighed each day (he walks over a weigh machine on his 
way back into the ICU) so the weight gain that is being reported is not 
just a visual thing, but documented weight gain from the scales.

Update 525: Just spoke to Dave Wallace (Tom Albatrani's assistant).  He 
reported that Bernardini is doing well as he readies for the Travers.  
Today he galloped about a mile and and eighth.  He was led to the track, 
was handed off to a pony and was ponied the wrong way (anti-clockwise) for 
a half mile.  He turned around, left the pony, and jogged about three 
eighths of a mile before his gallop.  He is in great spirits, yet very 
self controlled.  He will likely do something similar tomorrow (but I will 
catch up with Dave to confirm once he has trained).  Dave galloped Cigar, 
so I will quiz him about that once the Travers is over.  

They (Albatrani) have a runner tomorrow in a grade 1 stake at Saratoga, 
Balletto: Fleet 
Indian's speed, durability hard to beat.

Update 524: Peter Brette just called.  He visited Barbaro this afternoon 
(about 3pm).  He was very upbeat in his report, and also noted Barbaro was 
devouring "stud muffins" during the time Peter was visiting.  

Update 523: OK, they are trying: Lost in the Fog 
'Not Done Yet,' Gilchrist Says, excerpt:

Returning to his barn after spending the previous five days in Florida for 
the Ocala Breeders' yearling auction, Gilchrist said Lost in the Fog is 
being treated in his stall with medications designed to shrink two 
football sized tumors found in his spleen and beneath his spine along his 
back, as well as a third, smaller mass. The trainer said he was encouraged 
by the 4-year-old colt's feistiness.

"This horse is not done yet," he said. "We are trying to shrink the tumors 
if that would be possible. If we can shrink them 50 percent,  there's a 
chance we can remove them (surgically). It's a long shot but long shots 
happen all the time in this game. It's something to hang on to. We're not 
dead in the water yet."

and

Gilchrist said Lost in the Fog, who returned to the stable Aug. 20 after a 
week at the University of California at Davis' Large Animal Clinic, is 
"doing fine and holding his weight well."

He said the popular colt with the oddball blaze has been given walks 
outside his stall and has been happily enjoying the carrots, apples and 
other things sent to the barn by admirers. The get-well cards, e-mail 
wishes and flower bouquets have been overwhelming, Gilchrist said.

"I finally took all the flowers up to the (administration) office and gave 
them to all the girls there," he said.

and

The trainer had originally planned to allow the horse to live out his 
final days in familiar surroundings and to be cared for by those that know 
him best. Without giving into what he called "false hope," he now thinks 
it could be some time before a decision to euthanize the colt might be 
necessary.

"He still has quality life ahead of him," Gilchrist said.

In particular, he said, the horse has enjoyed being reunited with his 
favorite human, groom Pascual Garcia.

"Everybody is glad that he's back," Gilchrist said of the atmosphere at 
the stable. "Everybody realizes the situation. But I won't let anybody get 
down. I refuse to allow any negativity."


Update 522: A couple of articles on St. Liam's untimely death: Owner 
Warren reflects on Saint Liam's tragic death and Freakish 
Accident Causes Saint Liam's Death.  The articles highlight the 
severity of the break and thus the need for the very tough decision to 
euthanize St. Liam.  ESPN will provide some St. Liam coverage during their 
saturday racing coverage (5 - 7 pm).  A nice post on the discussion board 
of a visit to DancingInMyDreams.  
We have a Fair Hill horse to follow on saturday in Saratoga: Hard to Argue 
With Sweet Talker in Ballston Spa.  Here is an excerpt:

Sweet Talker missed winning her second grade I race in the Diana Handicap 
at nine furlongs July 29 at Saratoga. Angara rallied along the outside to 
beat her by a head.

"I thought she ran a huge race," said trainer H. Graham Motion. "It's 
tough to be disappointed when she ran so hard. That race might have been 
longer than what she wants to go."

Motion wasn't originally considering the Ballston Spa because it came up a 
little sooner than Sweet Talker's customary five-week spread between 
races.

"I had not originally planned on this last race," Motion said. "But she 
came out of the Diana so well that we thought this would be a good spot 
for her. She's a very tough filly. I think the distance will help her." 

I saw Sweet Talker this morning, coming off the wood chip track.  I think 
she was shipping up to Saratoga this afternoon (by horse van).

Finally, a Cecil Whig photographer 
was at Fair Hill this morning taking pictures (of me and Tim).  I think 
they are writing an article to celebrate 100 days since the Preakness.  
Anyway, a lot of jovial banter was had as we were coming onto the track 
from Michael Matz's crew leaving the track.  There are people reading the 
discussion 
boards thinking some of the discussion is quite amusing!

Update 521: A nice letter from Mike Rea to Barbaro, dictated to his sister 
(from updates 
54: timestamp 3:19):

Hello everyone. I am Mike Rea's sister, Cathy. When I arrived at Kernan 
today Mike had Barbaro's letter ready and asked would I send it to 
Barbaro. So here it is:

Wed. Aug. 23rd 2006

Dear Barbaro,
Thank you for being a super star and thinking of me. People write on your 
web site and talk to me. There is no other way they would have talked to 
me because they talked to you first. Your trainer and owners are so famous 
and that way I get mentioned on a equal basis as you do. I feel like there 
is no other way those people would have considered me in their thoughts if 
they hadn't considered you first. It is very touching that I am considered 
by the same caliber of people who considered you. I feel privledged 
because of all this. I just want the story to show people what my life is 
about and how much my family loves me and how much I love them. Thank you 
Barbaro so much. My prayers and dreams are with you.

Mike Rea

As you can tell, I didn't edit any of his words. Mike is so overwhelmed 
with everyone caring so much about him. Again my thanks to everyone for 
helping my brother with his recovery. Cathy Rea Bosley

The above message was also posted on the discussion board: Mike's 
Message to Barbaro.  I think Round Pond is nearly ready to make her 
first start for Michael Matz, look for her in the entries at Monmouth.

Update 520: Sue McMullen e-mailed me this report of Enticing's race in the 
Nunthorpe at York today:

Alex, I'm working at York today and paid particular attention to Enticing 
(needless to say!). It was moving seeing those colours again, especially 
over here.

She was a bit wound up beforehand so they saddled her in the stables 
rather than the saddling boxes close to the track. But she was ok really, 
no more than you'd expect from a young filly and was quite relaxed down at 
the start. The horse that won, Reverence, loves the soft ground and 
shortened in price for that reason. There was a great deal of rain here at 
York last night.  Not seen Willie Haggas (trainer) yet but I think 
Enticing hated the ground. She was 'grabbing' at it in the early part of 
the race and didn't look that comfortable to me. When her chance was gone 
she was eased down. She's definitely better than that and we didn't see 
her best form today. The trainer of the winning horse is another of what 
you might call the small guys, so it was nice to see really.

The trainer to whom Sue refered is Eric Alston.

Update 519: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (wednesday 
night). Just saw Michael Matz coming back from the track. He had just 
gotten a message from Dr. Richardson this morning. Michael also reiterated 
to me his positive report from his visit with Bobby yesterday. 
My last set, I breezed one 3/8 mile in a comfortable 38 and am now walking 
back up to the track on Chappy. Just passing Peter who is saying to please 
express his thanks to everyone for all of your support. It's another 
gorgeous morning in Fair Hill.
updated thursday 7:17am

Update 518: The Jackson's are running Enticing today at York: Lael 
Stables homebred Enticing puts undefeated record on line in Nunthorpe.  
You will note two unusual things about this spot for their horse.  She is 
running against older horses (she is two) and against the boys.  This type 
of placement of a horse is perhaps a little more common in the UK than it 
would be in the US (pretty much unheard of):

The lone two-year-old in the open field is Enticing, one of two females 
among the Nunthorpe entrants. The other female is the five-year-old Paris 
House mare Mecca's Mate, winner of the 2005 Land O'Burns Stakes.

Racing at York is beautiful!

Jeannine Edwards sent me this e-mail about ESPN's Travers coverage on 
saturday:

We are planning a brief Barbaro update in the show Sat (5-7pm ESPN) as 
part of the news segment.  We will also have a separate tribute to LITF, 
since we are televising the King's Bishop live and he won it last year.  
We are doing a feature on the matchup between Bernardini and Bluegrass 
Cat... why each trainer thinks their horse is better and how they compare.  
They've never run against each other... Should be interesting.  Right now 
that feature is also scheduled to air on SportsCenter Friday night at 6pm 
and possibly 11pm.  (Last month when we covered the Jim Dandy, we did a 
2:30 minute feature on Bernardini, the Preakness, and how Barbaro's injury 
affected Bernardini's connections. That feature was also on SportsCenter 
the night before the show.)  We also have a feature on Sheik Mohammed in 
Dubai (owner of Bernardini)... one of our Associate Producers, Joan 
Ciampi, produced this one and she's very excited about it.  We have 3 
Associate Producers on this show, Tim Turrell and Chris DeMaio are the 
other 2 and they put together most of the features and taped elements you 
see on the telecasts.  They all do a super job!  Right now we are also 
scheduled to do a "behind the scenes" interview with Tom Albertrani (who I 
used to work with at Belmont, we galloped together for Mark Casse) we will 
accompany him out in the morning as he trains B. and get an up close look 
and his insight on the horse.  It's a 2-hour show with 4 races, so we'll 
have the usual pre-race analysis and post-race interviews, etc. 

In a follow up e-mail Jeannine noted that they will also have some 
coverage on St. Liam (co presenter Jerry Bailey rode St. Liam in his final 
start) and that there are 46 people at ESPN involved in putting this show 
together!



Update 517: Barbara Livingston's album of St. Liam.

Update 516: Just spoke to Peter Brette (5:30 pm), and while he as been at 
the Fair Hill barn all day he had just heard from Michael.  Barbaro has 
had another good day.

Update 515: A quick update from Rachel at Kennett Florist (timestamp: 8:29 
pm):

Lots to do at NBC today! We had breakfast for the staff; bagels, spreads, 
fruit salad, juice and coffee. They were piled high in the main area 
before Alie could finish setting up. Much appreciation was expressed as 
usual.

This afternoon when I went up with our treats for Bobby and staff I had a 
chance to ask if the Jackson's would be invited to Friday's event, and 
they are going to extend the invitation. Also heard from a staff member 
that they were going to get a total on the Barbaro fund donations that 
have been made in Dr R's honor and present him with that in a card on 
Friday. It's just so exciting! We're working on finilizing all the 
gifts... will post about them after Friday, incase anyone is snooping LOL!

Also, passed Sabina as we were heading in (she held the door for us) and 
was hoping to have a chance to talk to her, but she was gone by the time I 
got out. Can't wait to post for you all on Friday! Thanks again for 
everything!!

WE BELIEVE!!

The post position draw has occured for the Travers: Classic Winner 
Bernardini Even-Money Favorite in Travers with Bernardini drawing post 
position 5:

With a compact field in the Travers and a long run to the first turn, post 
positions will not be extremely important. Bernardini drew post 5 with 
jockey Javier Castellano.

"The horse makes it a lot easier for Javier," Albertrani said. "He's easy 
to rate and he never fights the rider. Javier is very patient with him and 
never overreacts."

The following poem Barbaro's 
Goodnight Whisperer includes the following horse banter:

Still, Barbaro wishes Bernardini and Bluegrass Cat Good News.
To Preakness and Haskell Winners - sporting their lucky horseshoes,
"Yahoo Jim Dandy King" - dominating one the toughest races,
"May Luck ride with you Bluegrass Cat at Travers, next of this week's 
races."

"Would have loved to see it for myself," says Barbaro beaming wide.
Bernardini tosses a look his way saying, "rather had you by my side."
"Competitive sports with friendly banter, that's what I love to see,"
snorts Blue Grass Cat through video cam jamming just like Bernadini.

Update 514: Dave Wallace, assistant trainer for Tom Albertrani, has agreed 
to provide us brief updates on Bernardini as we approach the Travers.  He 
noted how well Bernardini worked yesterday (see update 511 for details of 
the work).  Dave said that as he was watching him start his breeze, you 
would not know he was breezing unless you were clocking him.  Anyway, they 
were very pleased with the work and he has come out of the breeze in very 
good shape.  Today Bernardini walked in the shedrow (note: this is quite 
usual the day after a work).  Tomorrow he will return to the track, and 
gallop a little bit.  I'll catch up with Dave tomorrow to follow up.

Update 513: Here is the CBS video: Barbaro's 
recovery update.  The video footage was filmed yesterday, tuesday.  
This is a must see!

Text version (links to video): 'Thrilled' 
About Barbaro's Progress  There is an extended version to the video, 
under the header "Barbaro's Steps to Recovery", listed under the video on 
the right hand column.

Update 512: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (tuesday 
night). Just saw Michael Matz coming on to the track for my third set. 
Michael did mention that Dean Richardson had said Barbaro will be on TV 
this morning. I think he said 7:30am on CBS.
Another beautiful morning in Fair Hill. I am currently jogging around on 
Chappy as I talk...holding on to the neck strap with my left hand!
updated 7:05am
edit, it was on CBS, not PBS, lets hope their is a video clip online.

Update 511:  Bernardini worked on tuesday (Albertrani looks to a big 
weekend) in preparation for the Travis, going 5/8ths in 1:02.12.  This 
will be the last of three works he has had since his facile win in the Jim 
Dandy.  Excerpt:

With exercise rider Simon Harris aboard, Bernardini went in fractions of 
13.08 seconds, 25.91, 38.00, and 50.12 seconds and galloped out six 
furlongs in 1:14.36. He pulled up seven furlongs in 1:28.39. It was his 
third and final move in between his nine-length Jim Dandy score and the 
Travers.

"It looked like he worked really good this morning, looked like he was 
just galloping down the lane,'" said Albertrani, who moved the work up 
from Wednesday to beat potential wet weather.

This appears to be a nice easy work, where he quickened slightly in the 
final quarter.  I assume it was designed just to keep him ready for 
saturday.  He will probably just do a couple of routine gallops in the 
meantime.

The Bloodhorse also noted the work: Trainer 
Albertrani Has Bull's-Eye on Back and includes information on the 
likely field:

Expected to challenge Bernardini in the Travers is Haskell Invitational 
Handicap (gr. I) winner Bluegrass Cat, Minister's Bid, Doctor Pleasure, 
High Cotton, and Hesanoldsalt.

"I think post position will play a little bit of importance in this race," 
Albertrani said. "I would rather be on the outside of High Cotton and 
Bluegrass Cat. We're just going to run our race and whatever happens is 
going to happen."

I think (not certain) the post position draw is today.

Here is a little more on poor St. Liam from the Daily Racing Form: Saint Liam dies after 
freak fall, excerpt:

"Apparently he was just goofing off, and he fell," Bramlage said. "Horses' 
legs are made to go front-to-back very efficiently, but they don't go 
side-to-side very well. Somehow he got his leg underneath him and just so 
happened to land on top of the leg."

Bramlage said the horse arrived at the hospital at approximately 3:30 p.m. 
Eastern. The decision to euthanize the horse was made approximately 45 
minutes later after Saint Liam's broken leg was radiographed.

"On the X-rays you could see that there wasn't anyplace at all where you 
could put any screws to stabilize the leg," Bramlage said. "There were no 
options to stabilize it or put it in a cast."

Bramlage also said that the fracture had broken the skin, and that 
"infection was an issue."

Thoroughbred Times: Saint 
Liam euthanized because of leg fracture and Bloodhorse: Horse of the Year 
Saint Liam Dead.


Update 510: Saint Liam, who was horse of the year last year, had to be 
euthanized today: Horse of the Year 
Saint Liam Dead.

Update 509: Just spoke to Peter Brette, who had heard from Michael Matz.  
Barbaro had another good day.  

If you want more insight into my morning exploits (i.e. want to see some 
of Fair Hill), check this Fair Hill 
clip, provided to us by HRTV.  I am even in it a couple of times!  
Thanks Tina for sending this over.  Tina, who works for HRTV, put this 
together.  Tina used to gallop at Fair Hill, for Dr. Fisher and John 
Kimmel.  

Update 508: A quick update from Kennett Florist:

I just returned from NBC. Bobby is doing well. But mood is a little 
subdued.  Has you might expect after the sad new of Alcor. As always NBC 
loves the treats. Bobby got a nice basket of baby carrots with green tops, 
His favorite.
We would like to thank team Barbaro for all the support to Bobby, NBC, and 
us. You all are truly amazing people. We love you.
We Believe!
God Bless Barbaro & all of you.

Here is a photo 
album put together for Mike Rea and everyone supporting him.  Mike is 
continuing his recovery:  Hair Trim 
Today.

A nice article in the Thoroubred Times Jockey 
Baze recalls the rush of riding Lost in the Fog.  It includes the 
following excerpt:

"He made my job real easy, he had tons of speed, but he wasn't real crazy 
about it," said Baze, who was aboard Lost in the Fog for 13 of his 14 
career starts. "If someone wanted to go out there and go faster, he'd 
relax and sit off of him. Just a very nice, easy horse to ride."

I am still amazed that the day Lost in the Fog was diagnosed with terminal 
cancer, the same day Russell Baze rode seven winners taking his streak to 
nine winners, he had time to give us an interview on The Fog (update 
481).

Update 507: New Bolton's latest Barbaro update:  
Barbaro remains a happy, comfortable horse:

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro remains comfortable according to 
veterinarians at Penn's George D. Widener Hospital . "Barbaro is doing 
well on both hind limbs," said Dr. Dean Richardson, Chief of Surgery. 
"Because of this, we do not plan to change his right hind cast in the next 
two weeks."

The colt's left hind foot has laminitis, but Barbaro seems comfortable 
with that foot as well. "He needs to continue to improve over the next few 
months before we will have a better idea about his long term comfort." 
said Dr. Richardson. "Barbaro's appetite and his attitude right now are 
phenomenal; he attacks his feed and when he goes out to graze, he acts 
like he thinks he could train."

Doctors remain cautious about Barbaro's prognosis because, according to 
Dr. Richardson, there is no assurance that he will surmount all of his 
medical problems. "Right now, he is a surprisingly happy horse," he said. 
"He is gaining weight and has had his pain medications reduced without any 
effect on his well being. His strength and overall appearance have been 
improving since he became well enough to be walked outside each day."

Barbaro remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the University of 
Pennsylvania's George D. Widener Hospital, where he is recovering from 
injuries suffered at the Preakness on May 20.

The next update will be posted on Tuesday, August 29 unless there is a 
significant change in Barbaro's condition.

Also, the Cartoon 
Caption Contest ends tomorrow at 2 pm eastern.  Some great entries so 
far.

Update 506: A quick update on Lost in the Fog from the Daily Racing Form: 
Lost in the Fog 
update.  Its short, and includes the following:

Lost in the Fog, who was diagnosed with inoperable cancer at at the 
University of California at Davis last week, remains his normal, 
aggressive self in his stall at Golden Gate Fields.

and

Gilchrist's staff are carrying on in a professional manner, but the mood 
at the barn is undeniably subdued.

He was featured on wire 2 wire, with some barn footage (hand walking round 
the shedrow and eating in his stall).  I will try to find out of it was 
current footage, but he looked fine for sure if it was.  

Update 505: Jeannine Edwards just texted me, she is currently taping wire 
2 wire, which is scheduled for ESPN2 at 2 pm today.  There is going to be 
coverage on Barbaro and Lost in the Fog.

Update 504: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (monday 
night). Got the news coming back from my third set as I saw Michael Matz 
who had just heard from Dr. Richardson. Another beautiful morning here in 
Fair Hill. 
updated tuesday 7:10am

Update 503: I am afraid Alcor did not recover from surgery: Polar bear operated on by Barbaro 
doctor dies.  Discussed 
here.

This weeks racing focus will switch to the Travers, which will be part of a two 
hour broadcast on ESPN, from 5 - 7 pm on saturday.  The Travers is 
restricted to three year olds (like the triple crown), and unlike the 
Pacific Classic which was for older horses.  The favorite will likely be 
Bernadini, the easy winner of the Jim Dandy.  he is trained by Tom 
Albatrani who provided us a nice interview 
on Barbaro.  Bluegrass Cat (comfortable winner of the Haskell) will 
probably be second choice.  I will try to get more insight into this race 
over the next few days. 

 Update 502: Polar 
Bear Has Surgery in Chester County is a nice article that combines 
Alcor, Bobby and our friends from Kennett Florist.  Kennett Florist had 
this short report today (timestamp 8:31pm):

Lots of activity at NBC today. The press is even back in town... 
everyone's excited about the polar bear being there!

We put on our caterer's hat again today, but for the first time, it was 
lunch. We delivered pizzas, salads and soda for all the very hungry staff. 
They were all very excited and send their thanks to all who contributed. 
The pizzas were gone in minutes! We had a special side of carrots and 
treats for our boy, because he should be pampered as well. Thanks to 
everyone, lunch was a lot of fun, and very much appreciated!

WE BELIEVE!!

Dave Letell reported on Bobby's last work for the Kentucky Derby 
(timestamo 8:23 pm):

Why Barbaro is a "Superhorse" and how he crushed the best field in the 
"Derby" in the last thirty-five years.

Barbaro had an unconventional breeze at Churchill-fast and a very long 
stride (over 25 feet). His internal speed figures were super, best of the 
week. Barbaro never really quickened--he simply extended his long stride 
down the stretch and showed complete superiority. He had a stride length 
of 24 feet going into the first turn, on the backstretch and on the far 
turn. He maintained the same basic speed for each quarter to the end--but 
when he hit the stretch, he extended his stride length to 24.9 feet. Thus, 
he covered the last quarter in fewer strides than he took for each 
previous quarter. For another horse to beat him that horse would have to 
have been on even terms at the quarter pole and had a stride length of a 
minimum of 25 feet down the stretch. And that would have been a real 
stretch.

I remember Peter Brette describing this breeze, basically saying it seemed 
he took four strides down the lane.

Update 501: The Bearbaro report from New Bolton: Polar bear's broken leg 
repaired at Penn's Widener Hospital

Dr. Dean Richardson, Chief of Surgery at Penn's George D. Widener Hospital 
for Large Animals, today operated on Alcor, a 750-pound polar bear from 
the Erie Zoo.  Dr. Richardson is the surgeon treating Kentucky Derby 
winner Barbaro; he was assisted in today's surgery by Dr. James Orsini, 
Dr. Jessica Dahlberg and Dr. Liberty Getman. 

"It was an extremely difficult surgery," said Dr. Richardson. "The ulna 
was broken just above the carpus (the wrist) and we were able to repair it 
satisfactorily with two Synthes locking compression plates.  However, the 
radius was shattered in too many pieces to allow accurate reconstruction, 
so we used a single plate to partially stabilize it."

Alcor's broken bones were just above his right paw; zoo officials do not 
know how he broke his leg, but they suspect he did it while playing with 
his brother Mizar, another 7-year-old bear who has been at the zoo with 
Alcor since 2001.

"His prognosis is guarded," said Dr. Richardson. "He is a very large 
animal and it will be impossible to fully protect the area 
post-operatively.  He will have to take good care of himself."

Update 500: Another comfortable day for Barbaro today.  I just spoke to 
Kathy Anderson, who was just leaving New Bolton Center (5:45 pm).  She was 
with Michael Matz as Michael was grazing Barbaro.  All is well.  Kathy 
then provided a quick "Bearbaro" report (she said it not me).  Apparently 
there are plenty of media trucks at New Bolton following this story.  
Kathy saw Alcor being lifted back into his refrigerated truck, post 
surgery, I guess going elswhere for recovery.

Wow, update 500, who knew!  

Update 499: A nice Barbaro editorial halfway through this 
article, quite refreshing.  I am hoping to get another Barbaro update 
later today, Kathy Anderson said she might visit, she has not been able to 
visit for a little while.

Anna has a nice image of my reporting 
endevours! and someone spotted me "behind the 
gate".

Update 498: I am playing around with the search feature on the site.  
Please leave a comment below if the site is not displaying properly for 
you (i.e. the update content is not where it should be when you click on 
an update).  

A couple of Lost in the Fog tributes, the first is over at J. Carson Black: Lost 
in the Fog.  The second, a poem by WM & CL, comments timestamp: 2:45 
pm:

BARBARO's TRIBUTE TO LOST IN THE FOG

Remember the good times friends have together.
That's what helps endure all kinds of weather.
Who knew what time her story would tell,
As Barbaro gets better to bid farewell.
He sees like we do that Lost In The Fog,
Spend time with Greg Gilchrist & the family dog.

While our Bobby enjoys more freedom each day,
Grazing on grass and prize Timothy mix hay.
He understands what it means for best friends apart.
He whinnies so softly that you're just as smart.
He'll whisper some prayers your pain stays at bay.
Let His Light of Hope keep fears and doubts away.

He knows what it is like to suffer the blues,
He wishes so much better recovery cues.
Though times may be tough in the weeks ahead,
Maybe months left to rest in your special bed.
Just enjoy your time breathing fresh air and love.
Heaven's own gift to you from ALL His Angels above.

Amazing grace how sweet the sound that plays a tribute for you,
You were the best sprinter of any horse we knew.
Until Barbaro came of age and ran alongside your race.
In sleep's dreams you'll relive Bay Shore's first place.
2005 was your winning year with Eclipse Award.
Spending quiet times with your traineris more reward.

Why do you mean so much to Greg?
Is a horse more than speed of leg?
What makes Barbaro and Lost In The Fog the same?
Are they not greater than horse flesh by name?
Why do we find it so hard to understand,
The answer stares squarely upon one's own hand.

A horsewhisper for Barbaro can clearly foresee,
These two extraordinary horses are like you and me.
That's what Gilchrist knew all along,
when Lost In The Fog won more than furlong,"
"This horse is like a brother to me"
Replied Greg to ESPN and Horseracing TV.

Continuing Lost In the Woods tribute he finds,
These immortal words that might change others' minds--
"More respect for this horse than most people I deal with"
"If he were human...you want to be around him"--no myth.
It will be a tough time for him to bear,
While Lost In The Woods gets top home care.

Returning to Golden Gates Fields Sunday mid-noon,
Barbaro sends his best wishes to be with Greg soon.
The two will find time like Mike Matz and Barbaro.
The bond between trainer and horse beyond high and low.
Let us not shed sorrowful tears today,
Rather rejoice in their union as we pray.

If there's something to learn when all's said and done,
Barbaro's Champion spirit sends blessings to everyone.
"Celebrate each day as if it were your last"
"Take nothing for granted in the present or past."
"Find joy in the day's moments shared together with you."
Barbaro whispers, "dearest Eclipse Sprinter like Seattle Slew."

So with horsewhispering wisdom left here to see,
"May you be as pampered like they do me at NBC."
"Your groom Pascual Garcia will caress you with love."
"Just as Seabiscuit, Your Honor, Secretariat above."

And finally a note on the journey to NBC for the polar bear Alcor: Dr. R 
and his new patient, Alcor.

Update 497: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (sunday 
night). Just saw Michael Matz as I was heading to the track on my third 
set. He had just spoken to Dean Richardson who also noted that he is 
planning to prepare for surgery on the polar bear today. 
It's an absolutely gorgeous morning here at Fair Hill although my early 
guiding light, the moon, seems to have all but disappeared.
updated monday 7:05am

Update 496: A great article from the New York Times: With 
Loving and Costly Care, Barbaro's Long Odds Improve notes Barbaro's 
current status.  The following are excerpts:

"He's been very, very good on his legs," said Dr. Dean Richardson, his 
surgeon and the man who leads him outside each day. "It's exciting. He's 
improving."

Dr. Richardson warned that Barbaro was hardly out of the woods and that a 
full recovery would not be evident for months. Still, he said he was 
encouraged by the progress.

On July 13, Dr. Richardson had to compose himself when he announced that 
laminitis had ravaged Barbaro's left hind hoof wall and that the chances 
of survival were poor. Now, his hoof wall is growing back, and his 
fractured right hind leg appears to be mending, Dr. Richardson said. But 
he cautioned that until the cast was removed, he could not be certain the 
leg would be strong enough to bear Barbaro's weight.

"I think he's got a 50-50 shot," said Dr. Richardson, echoing the 
prognosis he gave May 21, after performing an operation on the colt's leg 
for more than five hours. "He's back to that level. Now, if you would have 
asked me the same question six weeks ago, I would have told you they were 
a lot -- a lot -- less than that."

and

Not only has Barbaro not shown signs of distress, he appears to be growing 
stronger each day. The foam sneaker is changed daily as the veterinarians 
continue to watch for the regrowth of his hoof wall.

"I go over there with the grass because I love him and want to break up 
his day," Gretchen Jackson said. "Now that he is getting outside, he is an 
even happier horse."

The following is a nice article on Lost in the Fog's trainer Greg 
Gilchrist:  
Trainer lost in the heartache.  An excerpt:

He didn't want to go and he's a guy who loves going to the sales.

He wanted to be back at his home base at Golden Gate Fields in San 
Francisco. You can't blame the trainer for that.

He wanted desperately to be there so he could be with Lost in the Fog, the 
best horse he ever trained.



Update 495: Lost in 
the Fog returns home.   Excerpt:

Dr. Don Smith, the colt's veterinarian, said the Eclipse Award sprinter 
was his normal, aggressive self when he returned to the barn and had eaten 
well after his arrival.

Update 494: Steve Willard just called.  He was with Giacomo as he called 
(about one hour after the Pacific Classic).  He said it just was not his 
day.  Giacomo is cooling out well, he looks good and is walking well.  

Update 493: A nice win by Lava Man, the favourite for the Pacific Classic.  
He seemed to accelerate well at the 3/8ths pole and put the race away.  He 
should be considered a top contender for the Breeders Cup Classic at this 
point, although they did mention they may consider a turf race next.  
Perfect Drift and Giacomo did not appear to really get into the race, 
finishing fourth and fifth.  Will try to learn more later.  There was also 
a quick clip on Barbaro, good to see it on the big screen (it was part of 
the Penn video clip).  

A nice post on the discussion board on Dancing 
In My Dreams, who had faced a similar surgery to Barbaro.  We noted 
her first foal's success in update 
432.

Finally, another lovely tribute to Lost in the Fog: Tribute 
to a Champion.

Update 492: Another quick story to follow in the Pacific Classic.  We interviewed 
Dan Hendricks a while ago (trainer of Brother Derek) about his 
thoughts on Barbaro.  He noted the sad story of Cozy Guy.   Well 
Cozy Guy's connections have Top This and That in the race!  Jeannine 
Edwards spoke with the owners and e-mailed me: 

they are extremely excited and said this is like being in the KY Derby!  
They are from the San Diego area and have always dreamed of running a 
horse at Del Mar. 

Update 491: ESPN2 is broadcasting the Pacific Classic from 7 - 8 pm this 
evening.  It will be a great race.  All is go for today's big race from 
the Giacomo camp.  I just spoke to Steve Willard (his exercise rider) who 
has been providing us training updates for the last few days.  He is 
pretty upbeat.  Giacomo hand walked today (walked around the shedrow).  
He's been cleaned up by the barn foreman (Frank), and is now relaxing in 
his stall as I type.  He will be led over to the receiving barn about 
fifteen minutes ahead of the time that he will be led over to the paddock 
with the other runners.  Steve has positive feelings for the race, 
everything has pretty much set up the way they want it to be.  The 
distance of the race will suit Giacomo (a mile and a quarter) and Mike 
Smith (his regular jockey) will start letting him run likely at about the 
half mile or 3/8ths pole.   Steve said it looks to be a great older horse 
race, with Lava Man and Perfect Drift (who Giacomo just beat in his last 
start at a less favourable distance for Giacomo) among the eight entries.  
Anyway, I want to thank Steve for giving us a little insight into the 
preparation of Giacomo, and wish him (and the rest of this quality field) 
the best of racing luck.

Jeannine Edwards provided us a great update about tonight coverage in Update 
486 and Joe Deegan has also weighed in from Perfect Drift's camp (update 
487).

Update 490: A little "housekeeping".  Given the overwhelming response of 
poems, videos and other content created by everyone, I am no longer going 
to be able to keep up with it all in these updates and on the fan 
media page (this is a good thing).  Fortunately the discussion 
board includes a folder (labeled: Barbaro Poems / Videos etc.) for 
such content so I hope people will continue to post their wonderful 
content there, and others will visit the boards to enjoy everyone's 
inspiring work.  Melissa Harden is also collecting all the creative work 
at: For the 
love of Barbaro.  Melissa will get the content from the discussion 
boards, and you can also e-mail Melissa your work 
(javaellybob@charter.net).  That being said, I did want to highlight this 
tribute from Jessica Frank: Lost In the Fog, 
Champion Always.

This site has now served more than 1.5 million 
page views!  and is currently ranked 
30 in google for the keyword Barbaro.  You will notice we have now 
signed up for the google adwords program (google ads).  This will help 
defray costs associated with the site, and we will also allocate a portion 
of the earnings to a charity appropriate for this site.  We will be very 
transparent re: the site earnings and what we do with the money.  With 
current traffic we estimate the google ads. could generate $1,000 / month.   

Update 489: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (saturday 
night).  I had a nice long chat with Michael as he was ponying a horse 
(and Stephanie) back from the woodchip track.   Dr. Richardson showed 
Michael the left hind foot yesterday and it appears to be doing whatever 
it should be doing at this stage of its "recovery".  Michael also noted he 
walks sound (as we saw on the Barbaro 
grazing video) and is starting to gain some weight. 
update 7:56 am, sunday morning    
 Update 488: Due to further tests, Lost in the Fog will not return to 
Golden Gate Field until sunday: Lost in the Fog nears 
the end.  Russell Baze's incredible nine race win streak remains that: 
Baze's 
9-Race Streak Ends at Bay Meadows.

A tribute to Lost in 
the Fog.

Update 487:  Many of you have shown interest in 
Perfect Drift, also running tomorrow in the Pacific Classic.  I just spoke 
with his exercise rider, Joe Deegan, who was boarding a plane I think when 
we spoke I think.   Joe reports Perfect Drift is training well and is as 
good as he has ever been right now.  He has settled in really well at Del 
Mar and should be a major factor.  As Jeannine also noted, Perfect Drift 
has made $4.5 million in his career thus far, Joe noted that would be over 
$5 million if it was not for a couple of head-bob decisions.    He was 
twice second in the Pacific Classic so they are hoping to put that right.   
He is a gelding, and is a big strong horse.  He is a tough horse and you 
have to be careful around him.   Anyway, in sum, Joe reports his is 
training well and should put in a big effort tomorrow.

The Daily Racing form on the Pacific Classic: Classic has 'tough' written 
all over it. 

Update 486: Jeannine Edwards just e-mailed me about 
the big race tomorrow (Pacific Classic) and ESPN2s coverage (7 - 8 pm east 
coast time).  The following is an excerpt:

I did see Steve this morning before he got on Giacomo, we had a nice chat.  
It seems they're all pretty excited about Giacomo's chances tomorrow.  I 
can tell you he looks fantastic!  Always been a big, eye-catching horse, 
but he's really blossomed into a he-man since last year.  Nice to hear 
that all his little problems seem to be behind him.   Someone else who 
looks fantastic is Perfect Drift, what a cool horse he is.  He loves 
travelling, loves seeing different places, and nothing fazes him.  He's a 
handsome brute of guy.  You'd never know he's 7.  He spends each winter at 
his owner Dr. Reed's home/farm outside of Kansas City, just turned out, 
growing a shaggy coat, getting spoiled by Mrs. Reed, and being a horse.  
Trainer Murray Johnson said Perfect Drift knows he's officially "off duty" 
when he gets to the farm.  If ever a horse deserves credit for running his 
heart out every single race, it's Perfect Drift.  And by the way, he's by 
Barbaro's sire Dynaformer, and he has the same head and face as Barbaro.  
Only Perfect Drift's ears are bigger!  Perfect Drift will be making his 
40th start tomorrow, and he's earned $4.5 million!!  It's going to be a 
great race.  We will also have in the show a feature on Giacomo, an 
interview with his owners (Jerry and Ann Moss), a Lava Man feature and 
interview with his owners, and a report on poor Lost In The Fog.  
Incredibly sad.  Hard to get a grasp of this ... and I can't even imagine 
what his owner, trainer, and stable personnel are going through right now.  
I remember seeing him at Saratoga last year, and playing with him over his 
webbing.  He was a very personable, inquisitive colt who took his owner 
and trainer on a remarkable journey last year ... 10 straight wins all 
around the country and an Eclipse Award as the Champion Sprinter.  It will 
be a very sad day when he leaves us.

Jeannine forgot to mention (which she confirmed in a subsequent e-mail) 
that there will be a Barbaro update during the show tomorrow.  

Some of you have pointed out that Sabina has posted a 
few new pictures of Barbaro!

Update 485: Peter Brette just called, he visited Barbaro at about 1 pm 
today.  All remains well.  He gave him a good brush.  He pretty much 
confirmed Bobby had been out grazing everyday since he first started 
grazing.  Peter and Michael will be on grazing duty next week I think.

Kennett Florist visited Fair Hill today, this is their comment (timestamp: 
6:12 pm)

Not too much to report from NBC today. All was quiet when we dropped off 
our goodies this afternoon, but that is normal for a Saturday.

Our prayers and thoughts are with LITF and his family. May he be 
comfortable in his final time at home with his family.

On a lighter note, Alie, my son Jacob and I had the wonderful duty of 
delivering a special gift to Alex this morning, from many of the TWR web 
family. He was absolutely wonderful to talk to and was graciuos enough to 
let my son meet a couple of the horses (he's 4 and now thanks to Barbaro, 
a horse fanatic). We took a couple pictures and I will forward them to 
Alex to do with as he pleases.

Alex, again, thank you for all that you do and for taking the time to meet 
with us this morning. We hope you enjoy your gifts. CHEERS from all of the 
thankful family members here on TWR and all of us at Kennett Florist!

PS - Before you all start calling, we don't have any fish on hand for the 
polar bear!! (but of course you know we'd take care of it if need be!) LOL

WE BELIEVE!!

Rachel

It was fun meeting Alie, Rachel and Jacob.  I really get a kick out of 
seeing how easy it is to entertain people around horses.  And of course, 
all your generosity is amazing, I was pretty overwhelmed, but very 
thankful!  I did decide to regift the basket of goodies, I asked Annie 
(from Michael Matz) if she would give it to Eduardo, Bobby's groom.  She 
was delighted to do so.  I will plan another Whip gathering very soon!    
Again, thank you, it means a lot.

Update 484: Steve Willard (Giacomo's exercise rider) just called to 
provide us an update for Giacomo as he prepares for Sunday's Pacific 
Classic.  Everything is a go.  He had his last gallop before the big race 
and will likely tack walk or jog tomorrow morning.  Steve noted his 
training today was similar to the last two days.  He jogged back 
(anti-clockwise) a mile and a quarter.  He turned around and galloped a 
mile and a half.  Everything feels fine, he is training forwardly and 
feels good.  

A couple of people have mentioned to Steve that they have been reading 
these reports, which is pretty cool.  I think one of those people was 
Jeannine Edwards, who is preparing for ESPN2s coverage tomorrow (7 - 8 
pm).  ESPN2 will also be providing a Barbaro update I think.  I will plan 
to contact Steve and get one more update before the big race tomorrow.  A 
few people have asked why I am covering Giacomo specifically for the 
Pacific Classic.  I chose Giacomo because like Bobby, he's a Derby winner!

Don't forget, we are planning a Barbaro vigil, 7 pm east coast time 
tonight.  Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, spare some thoughts 
for Barbaro.

Update 483: Peter Brette may be visiting Barbaro today.  If he does, I 
will follow up and get a report.  I just saw Lisa, Better Talk Now's 
exercise rider.  He is doing well after the Arlington Million.  He has be 
out twice (training) across the fields.  He will likely do that for a 
week.  They are considering the Melbourne 
Cup as an option for him later in the fall.  That would be TOO cool!  

I created a separate folder on the discussion 
forums for Lost in the Fog.  Here is contact information:

Attn: Greg Gilchrist
Golden Gate Field
1100 East Shore Highway
Berkeley, CA 94710

Dr. Richardson is getting 
ready to operate on a polar bear! The following is an excerpt:

Dr. Dean Richardson will operate on Alcor, the 750-pound polar bear with 
two badly broken bones just above his right paw, sometime next week at the 
University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center, where Barbaro is being 
treated, officials said.

"This doctor is one of the best in the world and they've got a 
state-of-the-art medical facility," zoo spokesman Scott Mitchell said. 
"There couldn't be a better scenario, given the circumstances."

Update 482: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (friday 
night).  I saw Michael Matz on my third set, we were behind the gate.  The 
conversation behind the gate quickly turned to Lost in the Fog.  Very sad.  
I want to thank Russell Baze for the time he gave me last night to provide 
us an 
interview, and some insight into The Fog.   I also learned, 
after the interview, that not only did Russell ride seven winners 
yesterday, but he is on a nine race streak!.

The two year old I was riding was gate schooling.  It was only his second 
time.  We walked through the gate a couple of times, then walked him in, 
stood him and closed up the gates.  We then opened them up, he walked out, 
nice and straight.  He was very good for a second time visitor to the 
gate.  I did learn this morning about his pedigree (from his owner).  I 
used to gallop his mother, and she is now 21.  (Yikes!) 
update 7:45 am, saturday morning 

Update 481: Russell Baze just called back so here is 
our interview (what a class act btw):

I worked him all but once or twice since he was a two year old.  I rode 
him in every race he ran bar one.  He was a real genuine horse to be 
around.   He was the best horse I have ridden throughout his career.  He 
did everything, against allcomers.  His temperament, ability and 
enthusiasm were unmatched.  He had natural speed.  He was so quick out of 
the gate, but he did not need the lead.  He had a lot of natural speed, 
you could sit back and relax, switch leads in the turn, and keep going 
(when most horse were stopping).  He would ship everywhere to run.  Just a 
very rare racehorse.  

Greg (trainer) and Harry (owner) have done an exemplary job with this 
horse.  Throughout the horse's career he has always given his best, now 
looking back its amazing how well he ran in Churchill (his win this year), 
knowing what we know now about the horse.  It's all very sad, but he is 
shipping back to Golden Gate and I will be fortunate to get to see him one 
more time.  He has really been important to me as you can imagine.  

I asked Russell what his barn name is: The Fog
I asked about any idiosynchrosies: he's agressive, and displays it, 
especially before races trying to bite the pony on the way to the gate

Update 480: I just spoke to Russell Baze, Lost in the Fog's jockey (who 
also happened to ride seven winners today).  I will post our interview 
tomorrow (once I have typed it up and run it by Russell).  I thought I 
would highlight this comment from Bubbranch, timestamp: 11:28 pm:

I got to watch his work at Golden Gate Fields in 2005 prior to shipping to 
Belmont for Breeder's Cup. The track was closed so he could work alone, 
and a ton of employees spread out along the rail to watch. By chance an 
acquaintance of mine saw me in the public box and said come on over here, 
we picked out a spot on the rail, and then Hary Aleo and his daughter came 
along and stood right next to us, right next to me. If I had burped I 
would have bumped elbows with him.

Will never forget how I could feel - physically, like a tingle transmitted 
- his excitement, pride, and affection for this horse, and I got a great 
taste of what it must be like to have a truly spectacular horse. 
Unforgettable. I hope that feeling never goes away for him, and that he's 
comforted by that and everyone's sincere support.

Signed very sadly,
Bubb in California

And finally, Lost in the Fog by 
Barbara Livingston, again.

Update 479:  I am attending the NTRA conference, scheduled for 6:45 pm re: 
Lost in the Fog (thanks Ed Fountaine, New York Post for alerting me to the 
conference).     A transcript will be available on monday.  LITF's trainer 
and vet are online for the teleconference.

Vet:
Unfortunately two more tumours in his abdomen, and another very large 
tumour along the roof of his back, about the size of a football (not that 
shape).  This one cannot be removed surgically.  His condition is 
terminal.

Trainer:
He is not in a lot of pain, he just gets uncomfortable at times.  The end 
is inevitable, and do not want the horse to go through things he does not 
need to.  Want to provide some final quality of life, pampered and cared 
for with his own people around him.  He won't take it too far.  Mr. Aleo 
(owner), Harry is a tough old guy, but this is bringing him to his knees.  
LITF is a hell of a warrior.  

I typed the above as I was listening, I missed some stuff.

Thanks Alex Fleming, who reported this in the comments, timestamp 10: 20 
pm and alerted us to the situation:

Gilchrist was on TVG at 6pm EST and announced he will be brought back to 
GGF in his stall with his groom to keep him comfortable during his last 
week. He did not want to euthanize him up at Davis where he would be all 
alone. He will be cremated and be buried at Ocala Florida where he started 
his life.

I am sorry, I watched LITF in his debut, and on two different occasions. I 
am borderline obsessed with my favorite horse, and I am devastated.

Update 478: Peter just called (6:00 pm), Barbaro remains well, Michael had 
just visited and called Peter.  

It does not appear yet we have any updates for Lost in the Fog.  We know 
today is a big day for him.  I have left a message with Russell Baze's 
agent in the hopes Russell will share some words with us about his 
relationship with Lost in the Fog.  Shelley Haysed left this message in 
the comments:

Good afternoon, everyone out there on pins and needles - I only have a 
minute and found Cheryl's (hopefully!!) positive info, and I have to let 
you know I called UC Davis and talked to a person who is a public contact 
for the Large Animal Clinic. She also SOUNDED OPTIMISTIC, she had good 
warm tones in her voice, when she said she could not yet release any 
information.

She did tell me that we could send BEST WISHES TO LOST IN THE FOG by 
posting to UC Davis website,

www.ucdavis.edu

and use a subject line of BEST WISHES TO LOST IN THE FOG - VMTH LARGE 
ANIMAL CLINIC

The messages are sorted out by the campus and forwarded to the appropriate 
department. Guess they have no idea what they're in for...

To send cards by USPS snail mail, the address is:

LOST IN THE FOG
VMTH - Large Animal Clinic
UC Davis
1 Shields Avenue
Davis, CA 95616

If anybody has better info, please let everyone know. I think the vigil 
yesterday was very powerful and I have all hopes for another miracle.

Bless Bobby for his power.

We also posted a link last night to Barbaro Livingston's pictures, here it 
is again: Lost 
in the Fog.

Update 477: Steve Willard (Giacomo's exercise rider) just called and all 
remains well as Giacomo continues his preparations for the Pacific 
Classic.  His training today was very much the same as yesterday.  He came 
onto the track at about 9:30 am.  He actually hand walks before he trains, 
he then gets to eat a little bit and rest up.  Training later also ensures 
a quieter race track.  

Once on the track, Giacomo stood for 4 - 5 minutes, and then jogged the 
wrong way (left handed) for a mile and a quarter.  He turned in, and 
around and galloped a mile and a half.  He was a little more relaxed today 
overall in his gallop.  He then jogged back to the gap, all was well.  He 
has had plenty of visits from fans in the area, getting their picture 
taken with him and so forth (as a Derby winner should).  John (his 
trainer) is very happy to let people visit him.  The barn is conveniently 
located near the stable gate.  For those in the Del Mar area, you can 
watch the morning training from the grandstand, Giacomo should be out 
again about 9:30 am tomorrow.

ESPN2 will be covering the Pacific Classic on sunday, 7 - 8 pm.  Their 
coverage will also include Barbaro coverage.

Update 476: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (thursday 
night). I was just driving back in to Fair Hill for my third set when I 
saw Michael's crew heading up to the track. I stopped, got out of my 
truck, asked the inevitable question, and got the good, positive response. 
There appears to be a pretty obvious upbeat mood within the barn judging 
by the poor jokes being cracked at my reporting efforts!
updated friday 7:10am

Update 475: No update just yet, its still a little early!  I had a break 
after my second set and thought I would try to describe the morning 
activities thus far.  For the first set we left the barn at about 5:25 am, 
there were two us of, Linsey and I, on two two year olds.  It was pretty 
dark out for sure, and the tractors were still working on the main dirt 
track (note to self, are we starting a little early at this point ?)  We 
thus had to go to the inner wood chip track (my two year old had not been 
there before).  We jogged back a mile (counter clockwise) together, and 
basically followed the tractors that were on the outer track, they had big 
lights on them, which helped!  There was one other horse out on the 
woodchip track, and I kept looking to see if he was going to gallop by us 
(it would have likely set our horses off a little).  Fortunately we met no 
(horse) traffic.  We turned them around after jogging back a turn, and 
galloped a turn together.  On the way home there was a fox cub, ON the 
horsepath.  He was not moving until we got _very_ close to him (her ?)  
Then he just wandered off to about 10 foot away, as if to say, what the 
heck are you doing at this time of morning!

My second set went out back across the fields.  OK, so now it was 
beautiful.  The sun was just rising, and it was a lovely sunrise, and 
there was a low mist coming from the damp grass (although it beats me how 
the grass gets damp, we have not had rain for ages and the ground is rock 
hard)!  Anyway, Deer everywhere, which is usual if you are first to take a 
horse outback, which meant my horse was scooting around a little, but he 
does enjoy jogging up and down the low gradient hills.

OK, I think we may have a couple of visitors today, which will be great.  
I have about six more to ride.  The Barbaro update may come at its usual 
early time, OR it might be around 8:30 ish.  I am not riding my third set 
at the usual time (now) which is when I normally run into Michael after he 
hears from Dean.  I just wanted to let you know.

Update 474: A few of you have set up web-sites in honour of Barbaro.  I 
may not have highlighted them all, please e-mail me your web-site URL and 
I will compile them all into an update and add them to the Fan 
Media page.  On that note SharonLynn sent me a note about an online 
book she is compiling at CelebrateAHero.com 
(Book ID: 428640).  You can contribute some comments, thoughts, 
remembrances and/or photos to make this book as wonderful as possible.   
Sharonlynn is planning to purchase the original for the Jackson's, and 
make copies for those connected to Barbaro.


Update 473: Barbara Livingston just put this album together of Lost in the 
Fog.  Her e-mail to me included the following:

Man, I LOVE Lost in the Fog.  Mr. Gilchrist is as kind and generous an 
individual as I've ever met....

I just put this together.  I'll try to add more, perhaps at the end of the 
weekend.

Thanks Barbara.

Update 472: Rachel at Kennett Florist just left the following comment:

It's a beautiful day here and at NBC. They were digging into the baskets 
of goodies as soon as we got there today! There were a few staff members 
bustling about and when I asked how things were the reply was that "they 
were doing good work here" (Like we didn't know). The respect they have 
for all animals continues to amaze me.

Things are rolling right along for Dr R's day. The cake and ice cream are 
now all taken care of (for those who have asked). We're getting really 
excited, and hope that it is a big surprise... we just have to absorb it 
all so we can paint a good mental picture for all of you!

As always, thank you to all of you!

WE BELIEVE!!

I asked how Giacomo got his name, Cheryl was first with the answer 
(timestamp: 7:45pm), followed by Jen (7:55pm).  He is named after Sting's 
son.  Sting is a friend / associate of Giacomo's owner, Jerry Moss.

And here is a quick update on Mike Rea:  
They Say the Brain Healing has Started.

Update 471: Just spoke to Peter Brette (4:45 pm) and all remains well with 
Barbaro.  Michael had just called him and Michael is at New Bolton now 
visiting Barbaro.  One day at a time!

Update 470: I just spoke to Steve Willard, Giacomo's exercise rider, to 
get an update on Giacomo today.   This is what he had to say:

Giacomo is a happy camper.  He is currently grazing outside his barn 
(10:45 am pacific time) after training this morning.  This morning he 
entered the track at the 3/4 pole shoot (his normal place to enter the 
track).  He stood in for a while, as he normally does, then set off the 
wrong way to jog a mile and a quarter.  He turned in, stood a while,  then 
turned around and galloped a mile and a half.  He was a little fresh at 
the beginning of the gallop and wanted to do more, but then settled down 
nicely and relaxed.  He came home well.  A nice routine training day for 
Giacomo as he gets ready for the Pacific Classic on sunday.

He is the second choice 
on the morning line (3-1) and has drawn post 4 of 8.  Steve did not 
think the draw mattered much for Giacomo as he will come from behind.  
Steve talked about how he got his name, does anyone know the story ?  If 
not, I'll post tomorrow.  

For those looking for more background information on Lost in the Fog, this 
is a good article: Lost 
in the Fog in critical race Career already finished, cancer threatens 
survival.  I remember one time seeing an interview with someone 
connected with Lost in the Fog and was asked why he was restricted to 
sprinting (versus going for classic distances).  I think the answer was 
simply he was very good at it.  He was pretty close to being seriously 
considered for 3yo of the year going into the Breeders Cup!

Update 469: Given that it appears Lost in the Fog is undergoing an examination tomorrow, 
friday, to determine his prognosis, we are planning a vigil for 
tonight, 7 pm east coast time.  Whereever you are, whatever you are doing, 
spare a bit of time for Lost in the Fog.

Update 468: I did catch up with Barclay Tagg this morning and asked him a 
few questions about his horses, and one about the Jackson's.

On Showing Up:
Today was his return to the track (in Saratoga) after his Secretariat win.  
He jogged off great and jogged one turn of the track.  It looks like he 
has come out of his race well.  Barclay is thinking two more races for him 
this year, but this plan is tentative.  The second race the Breeders Cup 
Turf (mile and a half), the first race to be one of the following three:
Man of War, September 9, 1 mile and 3/8ths
Canada Sky Classic, September 24, 1 mile and 3/8ths
Joe Hirsch Turf, Belmont, October 7, 1 mile and a 1/2

Basically his races remain on the turf and he will be facing older horses 
for the first time.  Stormy Kiss, another Jackson horse trained by Barclay 
is being pointed for the Ballerina at Saratoga (August 27).  I asked 
Barclay how the Jackson's were doing and what it is like training for 
them.  He clearly enjoys training for them, he said they really deserve 
good forture (Barbaro's progress, Showing Ups performances etc.) and they 
are just good people.  He noted that you could not ask for nicer people to 
train for, they let you do your job and are very open.  

Finally I asked Barclay about Funny Cide.  While he is being pointed for 
the Woodward (September 2) towards the end of the Saratoga meet,  Barclay 
believes a mile and a quarter is his best trip (Woodward is a mile and an 
eighth).  There is a race in Hoosier Downs (I think) September 30 that 
they are looking at closely.  Again, all remains tentative.

Barclay then went on to tell some very funny stories (as he does).  He 
would make a great book!

Update 467: New Bolton Center's update today: Barbaro has had a very good 
week:

­Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro continues to do well, and is being 
hand-grazed for 20 - 30  minutes a day.  "His blood work is completely 
normal and his vital signs are good," said Dr. Dean Richardson, Chief of 
Surgery.  "I can't complain.  Barbaro has had a very good week."  Dr. 
Richardson also reports that Barbaro is no longer using the sling.  "His 
comfort level has improved to the point that when he was in the sling, he 
wasn't "using" it at all.  The sling is only bearing the horse's weight 
when he wants it to, and Barbaro's comfort level has improved to the point 
that he was not using the sling to support his weight."

Barbaro remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the University of 
Pennsylvania's George D. Widener Hospital, where he is recovering from 
injuries suffered at the Preakness on May 20.

The next update will be posted on Tuesday, August 22 unless there is a 
significant change in Barbaro's condition.

Update 466: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (wednesday 
night). Just walked over to get the news from Michael Matz after I came 
off my third set this morning. He mentioned that Bobby was out grazing for 
30-40 minutes yesterday.
Also, Barclay Tagg is in town for a couple of days. I will try to get an 
interview with him a little later. Meanwhile, another spectacular morning 
in Fair Hill today.
updated thursday 7:10am

Update 465: We have a couple of video tributes: A Tribute to 
Barbaro (from argentdesign) and When You 
Believe (from Shannon).  We also have an article from the Washongton 
Post: Barbaro 
Now Walking Regularly in Recovery, which includes a couple of quotes 
from Dr. Sweeney:

"We who see him every day know he has been moving well and looking pleased 
and happy,"

and

"He's gotten down to where he's getting almost nothing," she said of pain 
management.

Finally a poem by Susan E (from update 
46, timestamp 1:18am):

LET'S HEAR IT FOR THE BOY

What does it take to make Barbaro whole?
A massage, some sunshine, fresh grass in a bowl?

Stud muffins, apples,
Baby carrots with greens,
Green and white peppermints dance through his
dreams.

Michael and Peter and Gretchen and Roy,
Their love and devotion for their brave boy.

Nurses and interns and Doc Dean so keen,
Alie and Rachel and the KF machine,

Posses and prayers and lights that do heal,
A website where everyone says how they feel.

Smartness and courage and Old Soul and heart,
A will to live that has burned from the start.
 
 Update 464: Daily Racing Form has an article of Lost in the Fog: Doctors think Lost in the 
Fog has cancer that appears a little more current.  The following is 
an excerpt:

"They know the mass is in the spleen itself," he said on Wednesday. "Right 
now, it looks good. It hasn't metastasized and moved to other parts. But 
when you look at a sonogram, it won't show very small things. That's why 
they're doing the camera search.

"If they find more, it is not a good thing. At that point, we probably 
wouldn't do surgery. If it does look good, at the middle of next week 
surgery will be performed to remove the spleen. It's a very delicate 
operation. They say there's a 50-50 chance he will make it through. If all 
goes well, he will recover and live a normal life."

Update 463: Kathy Anderson just called (7:45 pm) and she was just leaving 
Barbaro, who was laid down, in an upright position, eating fresh picked 
grass from a bowl!  As she was leaving his masseuse was arriving, who 
prefers to massage him laying down as he is then less active.  Kathy's 
report was upbeat.

Update 462: Dr. Richardson 
Chat at the Bloodhorse.  Interesting excerpts below:

The only reason I became a vet was because I fell in love with horses, and 
I became very involved working with horses. If you do that, you get to 
point where you love working on horses. I can't deny the fact he is a very 
smart and particularly charismatic horse. He is remarkably quick to pick 
up when you're trying to help him. Those are the sorts of things that make 
you like the horse a lot. You are also talking about being in the presence 
of greatness, and I think he truly was a great horse who did not have a 
chance to show it. All those things combined, it is hard not to be 
emotionally involved with it. I also have a long relationship with and 
like for the Jacksons and Matzes.

and

My favorite part initially was the challenge of the procedure and the 
aftercare. My favorite part now is simply trying to save his life. He is a 
very personable young colt, truly charismatic.

and

He gets ICU checks by the nurses four times daily (vital signs, checking 
how much he is eating, drinking, manure/urine production etc.) He is fed 
grain mixes four times daily. He receives free choice alfalfa and timothy 
mix hay. I change his LH foot bandage around 6 am and walk him about 30 
minutes in the late afternoon. He is no longer being put in a sling. 
Previously, we were letting him out of the sling from about 7 pm until 9 
am. The Jacksons and Mr. Matz visit at various times and Mrs. Jackson 
always brings some Lael Farm grass hand picked for him. He gets groomed 
and bathed at various times. Medications are given at various intervals. 
Previously he was on a number of constant intravenous infusions and 
epidural pain medication. His management is much simpler right now because 
he is doing so well.

and

The hoof wall (the hard [keratinized] portion) including the sole was 
removed. We eventually removed about 90% of it. The time to completely 
regrow a hoof varies, but a reasonable estimate would be 9-12 months.

and

He actually is spending no time at all in the sling right now. His comfort 
improved to the point that when he was in the sling, he wasn't "using" it. 
The sling is only bearing the horse's weight when he wants it to. It isn't 
possible for a horse to continuously hang with all of their weight in the 
sling. If they do so, they nearly always eat and breathe poorly. Also, 
nearly all will get serious rub sores if they are constantly hanging in 
the sling.

Update 461: Quick reminder, Dr. Richardson will host a chat at Bloodhorse.com 
at 6 pm east coast time.  I will post the direct link to the chat here 
once the link is live.

Kennett Florist provided this update today:

What a fun day to go to NBC! We delivered ice cream and all the fixin's 
for sundaes... fudge, carmel, whipped cream, nuts and cherries! Dr Sweeney 
was kind enough to send out an email yesterday, so there was quite a 
crowd! The place is just electric (maybe partially from the sugar), but in 
my opinion because of all the good news this week! Bobby gets to feel the 
sun on his back each day and snort and chomp to his hearts content, what 
could be better!!

Bobby got his carrots and treats to go along with the staff's sugar high. 
We also brought up some goodies for some of the other shifts, since they 
miss out on breakfasts and such.

Thanks to all of you the spirits continue to be high!

WE BELIEVE!!

WM & CL left 
this poem about Mike Rea 
(comment timestamp 5:15 pm):

Loving husband, horsetrainer, father, family man-
Getting stronger improving as you can!

The Lord's light surrounds you
easing your family's mind-
The Lord's love protects you-
helping you and friends unwind.

The Lord's miracle continue your healing-
His arms wrap around you whatever you're feeling!

Under His protection, you always will be-
While His Miracles continue in you to see.

Another good day closer coming back home-
Therapy allows you to walk better to roam!

Lord's and His Angels presence watch over thee-
Your family's updates bring joyful news about ye.

God's Love, Light, Protection stay here-
Rest now, enjoy His Power erasing all fear!

May each day bring forth joyfully great news-
Keep walking stronger after putting on shoes!

May our Lord's miraculous grace-
Allow coming home to your family's place!
Heal Mike - pulling for you to win your own race. 

Update 460: Jeannine Edwards just e-mailed me to let us know ESPN2 will be 
covering the Pacific Classic on sunday, 7 - 8 pm.  They will include 
Barbaro coverage which will include the grazing video and other recent 
updates.  The Pacific Classic is a great older horse race (not restricted 
to 3yos like the Kentucky Derby) and includes many of the best 
handicappers in the country (Lava Man, Giacomo and Perfect Drift for 
example).  Given Giacomo won the Kentucky Derby last year I thought it 
would be appropriate for us to highlight him going into this race.  The 
Daily Racing Form has a nice article today on him for good background 
information: Shirreffs 
wants Giacomo to be a hero again which includes the following excerpt:

Giacomo, though, is the stable star. Shirreffs still receives mail asking 
about the colt, and gets aggravated with himself if he doesn't have time 
to answer a letter or a request for a photo that day. For someone not 
accustomed to the limelight, Shirreffs immediately sensed that winning the 
Derby brings special requirements to those connected with the colt.

"I think it's a big-time obligation," Shirreffs said. "It's no longer just 
Mr. Moss's horse. It's sort of everybody's horse. I got a letter from an 
elderly woman the other day asking for a picture of Giacomo. I sent her 
one. People like that, this might be one of their only contacts with the 
outside world."

I thought it would be interesting to contact his current exercise rider 
(Steve Willard) and see if he would be willing to provide us some updates 
on Giacomo as they prepare for the Pacific Classic (I acquired his cell 
phone number from Andy Durnin, good friend and closely tied to last year's 
Pacific Classic winner Borrego).  This is what Steve had to say in our 
call today:

John Sherrifs should take a lot of credit for this horse.  He has shown a 
great deal of patience, and the patience is starting to proove out.  I 
have been around Giacomo since he was two, but I was not his regular 
exercise rider until about 3 - 4 months ago.  Frankie (Herrate) used to 
gallop him when he won the Kentucky Derby last year.  He has had 3 - 4 
different exercise riders during his time with John.  I am just very 
fortunate that I have been involved with him most recently.  

He is now training very forwardly, very good attitude, he is very focused 
in the mind, strong yet easy to control.  He breezed the other morning 
(monday), and as is the case with all John's breezes, was never asked for 
more than he can give, we always make sure the horse has something left, 
whatever speed we are going.  He accelareted on his own at the 16th pole 
but it was easy.  He worked in hand in 1:12 (3/4s), galloped out the mile 
in 1:39.  On tuesday he walked the shedrow (John walks all his horse the 
day after a breeze) and today (wednesday) he jogged two miles, he felt 
great.   I'll provide an update each day as we prepare for the Pacific 
Classic this weekend.  

So we will hear from Steve each day as we approach the big race!

Update 459: A worrying update on Lost in the Fog who was presumed to be 
colicing: Mass 
in Lost in the Fog Believed to be Cancer.  The following is an 
excerpt:

Gilchrist said that preliminary tests indicated that the lymphoma appears 
to be confined to the spleen. He said the mass is about the size of a 
cantaloupe. Lost in the Fog has won just one of his three starts this 
year, and Gilchrist had originally thought that quarter cracks were the 
culprits for the champion's sub-par efforts. "It turns out he's been 
running with this thing inside him this year," the trainer said. "It shows 
you what kind of warrior this horse is."

Gilchrist added that owner Harry Aleo is extremely concerned about his 
star, and that "We will do anything we can for the horse. It's almost a 
Barbaro-type situation."

Don't forget the Bloodhorse chat with Dr. 
Richardson tonight at 6pm. For those who cannot attend, they will be 
providing a transcript.  I will provide a direct link to the chat (and 
subsequent transcript) just before 6 pm tonight.

Update 458: I just watched Miraculous Miss work a half mile on the wood 
chip track in 47.1 secs.  That is a very handy time, and she did it quite 
nicely.  Miraculous Miss looks like she might be getting closer to her 
first race back after the horrifying gate incident in the Acorn.  She is 
now off the starters list, which required her to return to the gate at 
least three times to school.

I also had a nice chat with Adrian Rolls (Graham Motion assistant) about 
the horse flights over the weekend (Better Talk Now and Film Maker flying 
to and from Chicago).  He was pretty amazed by the entire experience.  
They vanned down to BWI, vanned right to the airplane and loaded right up.  
Once airborne the flight was _very_ smooth.  They were the only two on the 
outward bound journey (which was also nicely air-conditioned).  On the 
return journey they came back via Albany to drop off the Saratoga-based 
horses (which of course included Showing Up).  They were not on the ground 
for long at all before taking off again for Baltimore.  It seems the plane 
can hold about twenty horses, there were about fourteen on the return 
journey to Albany.  I asked Barclay's Fair Hill assistant (Tim) how 
Showing Up was after his (fantastic) performance.  He said all was well.  

Update 457: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (tuesday 
night). Saw Michael Matz as I was coming back from the track on my third 
set. Before I could even ask how Bobby was doing, Michael gave me the 
positive report.

On my first set this morning (5:30am), I was jogging back with Man in 
Havana...or at least that's who I think it was, it was a little hard to 
see. As we were coming back, two fox cubs were chasing eachother around in 
circles right on the horsepath. Which while very cute, required me to 
tighten my grip on the neck strap and my horse's mane.

Second set, I went out back and not only saw another fox cub but was 
surrounded by many deer. Of course, I again didn't let go of my neck 
strap! It's really a beautiful morning here in Fair Hill.
updated wednesday 7:10am






Update 456: A nice article from ESPN with some new quotes: Barbaro 
walks outside, grazing on grass.  The following are excerpts:

"I thought he was thrilled the first time he went out," Dean Richardson, 
chief surgeon at the New Bolton Center, said Monday. "He just seemed very 
happy to be out. You can tell he's looking forward to it every day. It's 
absolutely normal. Horses love to be outside, obviously, and he's pretty 
excited about it."

Barbaro stepped outside his ICU stall and started daily walks on a grassy 
area near the unit last Wednesday for the first time since having 
catastrophic injuries in the Preakness nearly three months ago.

and

"It's a big step just to know he feels good enough that you can take him 
out of the stall and walk him around like a normal horse and he eats grass 
like a normal horse," Richardson said in a telephone interview from New 
Bolton. "That doesn't mean he's healed. It just means things are going 
well right now."

The 3-year-old had made only a couple of brief walks back and forth from 
his stall to the surgery room at the University of Pennsylvania's New 
Bolton Center until last week. Now Barbaro is walked daily for about 15 to 
20 minutes in a secluded area not far from the George D. Widener Hospital 
ICU.

The USA Today blog On Deadline linked to us in their most recent Barbaro 
update: Barbaro 
update: He's grazing outside.  

And finally Philadelphia Park will name a race in honor of Eugene Dixon 
(long time patron and friend of Michael Matz): Philadelphia 
Park Notes - Track Set To Honor The Late Eugene Dixon.  An excerpt:

"Fitz Dixon's distinguished tenure as Chairman of the Pennsylvania State 
Horse Racing Commission was earmarked by his love for thoroughbred racing 
and his unflinching commitment to the integrity of the sport. Philadelphia 
Park is proud to memorialize these contributions by naming the Cotillion 
Handicap in his honor," said Greenwood racing Chairman Bob Green.
 
 
Update 455: Peter just called, Michael visited after his nice win at 
Delaware (No Fair) and Barbaro remains comfortable.  

A quick update from Alie at Kennett Florist:

What a great day!!! NBC was so upbeat & happy. Dr R's birthday will be 
wonderful. I can't wait to see his face when he sees all of this. Going to 
see Alex sat, Can't wait.
We were very busy today. Rachel & Bernie were off & Diane is on vacation. 
So I could not answer emails. Will try to answer you're your messages, 
tonight. But my 11 yr old granddaughter is here. Not much time. I wish you 
all could see the love & joy you have given to Bobby, NBC, Kennett Square 
& KF. We love team Barbaro. And of course Barbaro, Alex, The Jackson's and 
all connected to NBC
We Believe.
Love to Bobby
Good night from Kennett Square & KF

HRTV will be running a short segment (somewhat randomly) about Fair Hill 
today and tomorrow.  It includes some photos we have on this site.  Tina 
(x Fair Hill from a longtime ago and the original owner of my helmet and 
helmet cover) put it together.  Talking of HRTV, I watched Something Wild 
(no excuse, had a good trip, seemed closers did better in the race, cooled 
out fine, finished 5th), Bond Beauty (duked it out up front, looked good 
for a long time, seemed to fade in the final furlong) and No Fair (nice 
winner for Michael Matz at Delaware Park.)

Update 454: A few people had mentioned Lost in the Fog getting colic.  
Here is the story: Lost in the Fog 
Treated for Colic.  It seems it is not a severe case, here is an 
excerpt:

"If it wasn't Lost in the Fog, we would have taken care of it at the 
barn," Gilchrist stated. "This is a very slight case of colic. We are not 
anticipating surgery being necessary. They are running tests on him now, 
and I would expect to have him back in the barn Thursday or Friday. When 
he got off the van at Davis, he was feeling good enough where he was 
looking around for the racetrack."

Lost in the Fog was a brilliant sprinter last year (maybe this year too, 
not really been following him).  For more information on colic: Wikipedia: Colic.

While looking for an article on this, I discovered Dr. 
Richardson is hosting a chat for Bloodhorse tomorrow, August 
16, 6 pm eastern time.  Submit your questions!

Update 453: A quick update re: Dr. 
Richardson's birthday planning.  New Bolton Center's next update will 
be thursday of this week.  Skyler has provided an update on the status of 
the bracelets that are being produced with Lisa, comment timestamp: 3:03 
pm below, a quick excerpt:

The wristband with the Lael Stables' colors (blue/green) has yet to be 
produced. This is the band that says "Believe in Miracles, Believe in 
Barbaro". Proper steps have been taken to ensure that this band, this 
slogan, these colors are done the right way. Additionally, further 
movement is contingent on the Jackson's approval.

WM & CL offer us this (timestamp 3:52pm below):

****WHAT BARBARO MEANS*****
by Wm & CL Shaw August 15, 2006
Champion of Champions including
Words like Hero, Champion, Spirited One,
Fierce Warrier, Heart Like No Other, Other Worldly,

Seabiscuit's Spirit, Beloved Barbaro & Bobby,
Bravehearted One, America's Favorite Son,
Blessed One, Lucky Swift-Footed, Magnificent One Intelligent Smarty One, 
Courageous, Graced by
God,

Sweet Barbaro, Old Soul, Victorious Champion,
Miracle Boy, Handsome Big Guy, Equine Hero,
Folkhero, Heaven's Wings, Perfect Motion,

Graceful Elegant One, Loving Boy, Champion Spirit,
A Loving Champion, Remarkable Barbaro, One-in-a-Million,

Barbaro's Swagger, Graceful Presence, Superhorse,
Thriver, Mild-Mannered, Light of Hope, Unbeatable,
Sweetest Precious, Miraculous Power, Smartbrains,
Our Kentucky Derby Winner 2006
His Legacy Continues...

And finally, Something Wild is running today in the 8th race in 
Philadelphia (Tim's horse), and Debbie's Bond Beauty is also running 
at River 
Downs in the 9th!

Update 452: Excellent article from the Baltimore Sun: Barbaro 
takes big step forward provides good insight into how Bobby is doing.  
The following excerpts are only a few of the interesting quotes:

"I was at Saratoga, when Mrs. [Gretchen] Jackson called me and said, 
'You'll never guess where I am. I'm outside with Barbaro and he's eating 
grass!' " said Barbaro's trainer, Michael Matz. "I was very happy to hear 
that. It was the first time he's been outside the building since the day 
he arrived there."

and

 "He's always been calm when taken out to graze," Matz said.

Anderson said Barbaro "has gone to the next level of rehabilitation" and 
has reached the point where "it is safe to walk him out a short distance."

"We hoped to be able to take him outside six weeks ago, prior to his 
foundering," she said. Anderson was referring to how Barbaro had developed 
laminitis, a painful inflammation, in his left hind foot, which resulted 
in the removal of 80 percent of his hoof wall.

"But his fracture wasn't strong enough [for the exercise]," Anderson said. 
"If he did anything stupid, it would have made it a very bad decision. 
Obviously, he's progressed from there, and the walk provides a little 
stimulation to both of his legs, even though they are still both in casts. 
And it is very good for his attitude."

and

Susan Danner, Matz's farm assistant who was present for the first outing, 
said the horse was extremely docile when his stable door was opened, not 
expecting anything unusual. But once he was led outside, "he brightened 
noticeably."

We do know however that there remains a long road ahead, and Bobby is not 
yet out of the woods.  The next vigil is planned for this saturday, 7 pm 
east coast time, August 19.

It also seems Barbaro remains in the local news this morning.  Some have 
also noted he was on CBS national news last night, is this correct ?  (I 
was watching a riding lesson at the time).

Update 451: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (monday 
night). Spoke to Michael Matz coming back from my third set. He also noted 
that when he visited last night, all was good.
updated tuesday 7:05am

Update 450: Our friends at Horsetalk, NZ continue their Barbaro coverage: 
Grazing a small, 
exciting step for Barbaro (this site is quoted).   

Melissa is the first to celebrate the grazing upgrade with a video: Barbaro 
Celebrating Grazing in the Grass.  And to further celebrate this news 
WendyinMI has proposed her own contest along with some very cool golfing 
prizes: Bring 
Out Your Best Barbaro Tribute Contest.  I am looking forward to the 
continued creativity! 

Update 449: Kathy Anderson just called, she was just leaving New Bolton 
(8:15 pm).  Another positive report. Barbaro had a bath today, he has been 
outside.  He was laying down again when she visited, and got up without 
any problem.  Kathy had not visited for a few days (she was away at a 
conference) and thought she could see a slight positive uptick in his 
attitude now he has been able to go outside.    Despite his ability to go 
outside, he still gets the hand picked grass in his stall!

Update 448: Spoke to Peter Brette at about 7 pm this evening.  He visited 
Bobby at 1 pm.  Barbaro was lying down, asleep.  Peter's report was 
upbeat, much as we have been hearing lately!

Update 447: NBC10s six o'clock news will show a Bobby update.  I am sure 
other local news channels will do the same. 

Update 446: Dr. Richardson's birthday is coming up soon apparently.  An 
idea for honoring this occasion is being discussed on the discussion 
board: Dr. 
Richardson's Birthday.

Kennett Florist have reported on their visits today to New Bolton 
(timestamp: 8:37 pm)

What fabulous news!! Seeing Bobby out and grazing brought tears to all of 
our eyes today!

We had two trips to NBC today. Bright and early Alie and I brought hot 
bagels and spreads, juice and coffee to all the hungry docs and staff. As 
always they were very thankful to all who send them treats - even though 
they all say they've gained weight since Bobby's been there! We also 
brought up Bobby's favorite carrots so that he was not neglected in the 
breakfast festivities!

This afternoon things are still upbeat and everyone just seems so excited 
that he's been able to get out into the sun and graze. We brought some 
snacks for the later shifts. Thank you all, again and again for all that 
you do! We are so honored to be a part of this team.

WE BELIEVE!!

Update 445:  Bobby is hot on the AP wire today (not sure if that is how 
you say it but ...)  The following articles appear identical other than 
their headlines: Barbaro 
Walks Outside, Grazing on Grass,  Barbaro takes 
a walk outside and Barbaro 
walks outside, grazing on grass.  They include the following Dean 
Richardson quotes:

"It's a big step just to know he feels good enough that you can take him 
out of the stall and walk him around like a normal horse and he eats grass 
like a normal horse," Dean Richardson, chief surgeon at the New Bolton 
Center, said Monday. "That doesn't mean he's healed. It just means things 
are going well right now."

and

"I thought he was thrilled the first time he went out," Richardson said in 
a telephone interview from New Bolton. "He just seemed very happy to be 
out. You can tell he's looking forward to it every day. It's absolutely 
normal. Horses love to be outside, obviously, and he's pretty excited 
about it."

and

"I think we're lucky his tissues are fairly healthy," Richardson said. "I 
don't know why he's more comfortable than some horses with the same 
condition."

Barbaro had the cast on his injured right hind leg changed last Tuesday 
and Richardson said it might not need to be changed for about another 
three weeks. The left hoof, which needs to completely regrow if the colt 
is to have any shot of walking, remains the biggest concern.

"He's got to get this left hind foot to the point where it's a solid 
structure that can sustain long-term weight bearing," Richardson said. 
"Could there still be some major things resulting in him having to be put 
down? Yeah. He's absolutely not out of the woods yet."

Update 444: New Bolton's video: Barbaro 
Video, August 14.  You need quicktime.  Its 3m 51 secs. and includes a 
short interview with Dr. Richardson at the end.  It clearly shows Bobby 
walking comfortably, and enjoying the great outdoors!

Update 443: Thoroughbred Times reports Bobby's grazing: Barbaro 
grazes outside following cast change which includes the following 
excerpt:

"That's the first time he's been outside since we brought him in," said 
Gretchen Jackson, who bred and campaigned Barbaro along with her husband, 
Roy, in the name of their Lael Stables. "Dean took him out, and he just 
stood there for easily five minutes, looking at the scenery like, 'Oh my 
God, I'd forgotten about all of this.' He just looked around for some time 
before he put his head down, and then he ate away and was probably out for 
a good 20 minutes, enjoying himself. It was just the nurses out there and 
maybe a few vets and I think there were quite a few tears shed to see him 
do that."

Update 442: New Barbaro pictures: Barbaro 
hand-grazes at the New Bolton Center with Dr. Dean Richardson..

Update 441: New Bolton Center's press release today (not yet on their 
site): Barbaro well enough to hand graze outside:

After almost three months in the Intensive Care Unit of Penn's George D. 
Widener Hospital, Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro has begun brief outings to 
some grassy areas adjacent to the ICU to hand graze. "We felt he was ready 
for a change of scenery, so last week we took him outside to pick his own 
grass," said Dr. Dean Richardson, Chief of Surgery. "He's not outside for 
a long time, but it's enough to let him enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. 
If he remains this comfortable, he will be hand-grazed daily."
 
Photos will be available on the Penn Vet Web site later today that show 
Barbaro being walked to the ICU's grazing area. "I'm very pleased with his 
progress," said Dr. Richardson. "His appetite remains strong, he sleeps 
well, and we continue to monitor him closely.  He is measurably gaining 
weight and his overall attitude is great."

The photos show the cast on the right hind leg, which encloses the foot 
and extends up to just below the hock, the bandage on the left hind foot 
and support wraps on Barbaro's front legs.  

Update 440: As many have noted in the comments, Barbaro was on Good 
Morning America this morning.  Here is the video from GMA (check top 
stories).  The video they used will be posted to New Bolton's site soon 
(as Dr. Richardson told us this morning) along with photographs!    I 
believe the footage is from friday.  Here is a comment that fairly 
represents many other comments (Posted by: marie from atl at August 14, 
2006 02:03 PM):

Just saw the video. WOW! Barbaro looks great and Dr. R looks very happy.

Good morning everyone. What a nice way to start the day.

Update 439: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (sunday 
night). Just saw Michael Matz as I was going to the track on my third 
set...he was literally hanging up the phone with Dr. Richardson. Dr. 
Richardson also said that there will be new video of Bobby on the New 
Bolton Center site today. I believe there will be new photos as well. 
updated monday 7:05am

Update 438: I am hoping Michael Matz is now back from Saratoga (I won't 
know until I see him at Fair Hill).  If so then I hope our morning update 
will be that, in the morning!  I have about nine to ride, but should be 
able to get a little free time if I get the morning report.  In the 
meantime, keep enjoying the cartoon caption contest, there are already close 
to 100 entries and it was only posted yesterday!   

 
Update 437: For fun: We have a cartoon caption contest at: Just 
for FUN, a Contest.  The deadline for entries is 2 pm eastern time, 
august 23rd.  We look forward to your creativity / imagination.  Thanks Anna for putting this together.  

We have another Arlington Million Report: Arlington 
Million Day Wonderful  and "landesign" also took some pictures, 
available on snapfish. 
Some great ones of Showing Up, Film Maker, the Jacksons, Better Talk Now, 
and more!

And finally a limerick from Susan E (timestamp: 7:16pm):

 A LIMERICK FOR BOBBY, PART II

One day our young stallion named Bobby,
Was visited by Daddy and Mommy.
When the keen Dr. Dean,
Saw the grasses so green,
And suggested a little hob-nobbing.

So Bobby went out in the sun,
To the delight of everyone.
He nibbled and grazed,
In the sunshine he lazed,
Another race Bobby has won.

Update 436: Another comfortable day for Bobby,  just spoke to Peter.   He 
was unable to visit today but had heard from Michael.  It does appear that 
all in all, this has been a good week.  Despite that, we do need to 
remember that we have a long way to go, we should however be thankful for 
the progress that we are hearing.
update sunday, 6:30 pm

Update 435: Jeannine Edwards just e-mailed me this 
note to provide more information on her interview with the Jackson's 
yesterday at the Arlington Million (the transcript of the interview has 
been transcribed by Jean i the comments, see her comment timestamped: 2:44 
below):

Just wanted to follow-up on the interview I did with them yesterday and 
add a few tidbits for the site if you're interested and if it isn't old 
news by now.... Gretchen and Roy were kind enough to come down to the 
paddock at Arlington earlier in the day and do a taped interview with me 
for the 3pm CT ABC telecast.  They were very upbeat about Barbaro's 
current condition.  They both said they thought it was the end when Dean 
told them Barbaro had foundered badly in the LH foot.  They said everyone, 
including Dean, was crying.  Gretchen said Dean has really fallen in love 
with Barbaro, and that there is only one other horse that he ever became 
really attached to.... an Arabian stallion that also had alot of charisma 
and intelligence.  The Jacksons said they are so pleased with how Barbaro 
has kept the fighting spirit and appears to be turning a corner.  He is no 
longer on continual IV drips, the epidural is out, he just receives some 
pain management shots.  He's spending less time in the sling.  And it was 
Dean's idea to take Barbaro out for grass the other day.... Gretchen said 
they were all there visiting and out of the blue Dean said "Let's take him 
outside!"  So out he marched (Dean leading him), eyes wide and eager, and 
Roy said Barbaro just stood there looking around for a few minutes, just 
taking it all in, before finally dropping his head to graze.  My 
interpretation of that would be Barbaro thinking "Where the hell am I, and 
has it really been 3 months since I've seen daylight???"  :)   The 
Jacksons both said Michael has tirelessly gone to see Barbaro every 
day.... he is so personally and emotionally invested in his horse's 
ordeal.  Roy said he continues to be amazed at the interest in and 
outpouring of support for Barbaro's condition.... they simply can not 
believe it.  He said it is baffling, but wonderful.  And they are happy to 
help keep the world informed of how Barbaro is doing, because they know 
how people are yearning for updates.  And one other note.... The Jacksons 
said they visit timwoolleyracing.com!!  It's official, you guys have 
become the Go-To Site for Barbaro!!  I'd like to take this opportunity to 
thank the Jacksons for graciously spending some time with me yesterday 
afternoon and sharing some of their personal thoughts on Barbaro.  And 
congratulations on a wonderful victory by Showing Up!

Update 434: Just spoke to Peter.  He has not visited yet today, and 
today's update will likely be later this afternoon.  He did note Bobby had 
a good day the remainder of the day yesterday.  

Here is a nice article on Tin Man's win yesterday in the Arlington 
Million: A 
horse that's all heart.  

I have also been meaning to note Bernadini's breeze on friday as he 
prepares for the Travers 
Stakes.  It seemed like a nice "maintenance breeze": Bernardini strong in first 
workout back in a nice leisurely 1:03.48 for the five furlongs.  I 
imagine this breeze was designed just to get some wind into him and 
stretch his legs.  He will likely have one or two more breezes before the 
Travers.

It also looks like Funny Cide is getting closer to running again: Funny Cide 
prepares for the Saratoga Woodward.

Update 433: No update yet this morning.  I think Peter Brette is planning 
a visit to Barbaro so will try to catch up with him a little later.  
Gloria wrote this report of her visit to the Arlington Million yesterday: 
Arlington 
Million day report.  Thanks Gloria, and for those going racing, it is 
great to read about your experiences.  

Here is another nice review of Showing Ups race yesterday: Showing Up wins Secretariat 
Stakes.  Clearly like everyone else, Marcus Hersh really had Bobby on 
his mind (thanks JS).  

Its always nice to hear from people from afar following Barbaro's 
progress.  This comment was left (updates 
42 timestamp 11:44):

Greetings from Sydney Australia!!! Even though I'm half way around the 
world I continue to check on Barbaro. I am heading to the Hunter Valley 
today which is supposed to be THE place for the Australian racehorses - 
hope to catch a horseback ride while I'm there.

Much Love to Barbaro!!!!!

Julie



Update 432: Dancing Forever won the 10th at Saratoga.  Her mother suffered 
a severe injury, she went to New Bolton and recovered.  I need to find the 
article that discusses this, but nice to see her baby win.  (Thanks Ed 
Fountaine).  OK, here is the Bloodhorse article, very cool: Barbaro's 
Injury Similar to Dancinginmydreams' Years Ago.

Update 431: Showing Up showed up, nice wiring performance!  Congrats to 
the Jacksons.  Here is the Bloodhorse's report on the race: Showing Up in 
Sparkling Secretariat Win.  It was also nice to see the Steve Klesaris 
trained Diabolical win today at Delaware: Diabolical overpowers rivals 
in Nick Shuk.
edit: added the bloodhorse link and Diabolical performance.

Update 430: Just spoke to Adrian Rolls (Graham's assistant with the two 
Arlington runners.)  He said it seems both horses are cooling out well.  
To me it looked like Film Maker ran a big race, no real excuses, a good 
second in a very good race.  Better Talk Now seemed to be compromised by a 
slow pace up front.  He needs a quick pace, from which he is usually held 
up for a late challenge.  When the pace up front is slow, the horses up 
front also still have a late kick, which makes it harder for the closers.  
While he finished 6th or 7th, he was only beaten about 6 lengths for 
everything ad looked to be galloping out strongly.

We have a few reports from our Fair Hill visitors today.  Jazz posted on 
the discussion board: Todays 
visit with Alex in Fair Hill  and also took 
pictures.  Lynn left comments below (timestamp: 5:21 pm and 7:28 pm), 
a quick excerpt:

I understand why people fall in love with horses. I understand why they 
love to race. I understand now why the Jackson's and Michael Matz have put 
so much on the line to save Barbaro.

Thanks Emily for showing us around Michael's barn (and congrats on Tin 
Man)!

Update 429: ABCs interview with the Jackson's was short but VERY sweet.  
Its confirmed, Bobby has been led out to graze.  This was earlier reported 
by Jane (update 
41 4:54 am):

Just got back from a week in Saratoga where I saw Michael Matz, the 
Jacksons and Dr Richardson in the paddock on Sunday. Dr Richardson 
presented the trophy for a race sponsored by New Bolton. He looked relaxed 
and happy and the Saratoga Special reported that during Dr Richardson's 
afternoon there, he was asked well over one hundred times about Barbaro 
and he was able to report that all was well.

Yesterday, Edgar Prado was autographing pictures of his winning ride in 
the Derby on Barbaro. The proceeds went to the Race Track Chaplaincy. I 
thanked him for being so good to Barbaro and he replied that Barbaro had 
been very good to him, too. Edgar did say to the man in front of me that 
he had heard that they had taken Barbaro out to graze on Thursday morning. 
Whether that can be verified or not, I don't know. But he did say that he 
was up there to see him about 2 weeks ago and was very pleased with how 
well he was doing. Edgar is certainly a very nice person and a class act. 
You can tell how much he truly cares about Barbaro. His face, which is 
normally quite solemn, lights up when he talks about him.


Update 428: Another comfortable night (friday night) for Barbaro.  Just 
heard from Peter who had heard from Michael Matz.

ABC will broadcast a brief Bobby update (which may include soundbites of 
an interview with the Jackson's if they are able to do the interview) 
about 30 minutes into their show.  They will also broadcast an interview 
with Graham Motion as a lead up to the Beverly D.
edit, changed ESPN to ABC!


Update 427: No update yet for Barbaro this morning, although I did see 
Peter who said that he remained comfortable last night.  He also noted 
that they had reduced his pain medication recently.  I will catch up with 
Peter a little later to see how Bobby is this morning.

I just spoke with Adrian Rolls, Graham Motion's assistant, who flew out to 
Chicago with Better Talk Now and Film Maker.  They flew out yesterday 
(friday), it was a two hour flight from BWI.  Adrian said it was amazing, 
as soon as they got on the plane they dropped their heads and totally 
relaxed (they have flown before).  It was a very smooth two hour ride.  
Film Maker just shedrowed this morning (ridden in the shedrow in the 
barn).  Better Talk Now was ponied to the track and jogged / galloped once 
around just to stretch his legs.  Both look well and are in good order for 
their races.  Adrian also caught up with Barclay (Tagg) who reported 
Showing Up was in good form.  I think he flew in on thursday.

We had three visitors to Fair Hill today.  Jazz, Lyn and Lois.  It was fun 
being a host, I hope it was fun / interesting to visit!

Update 426: I was hoping to hear back from Jeannine Edwards (and may still 
do so yet) re: ABCs racing coverage today.  The following is an excerpt of 
an e-mail she sent to me a couple of days ago:

we are not showing the secretariat, it's after we are off the air.  we ARE 
showing the beverly d, arlington million, sword dancer (SAR) and 
vanderbilt (SAR).  we may do a quick interview with the jacksons, not sure 
yet.  there will be a barbaro update. 

Its a shame we won't get to see the Secretariat (The Jackson's Showing 
Up's race) but it would be great if they were to interview the Jackson's!  
Lets see.  

The following Bloodhorse article previews the Arlington Million: Many Obstacles 
in Million for English Channel which includes the following excerpt:

The leading quartet must face seven other worthy challengers in Saturday's 
Arlington Million XXIV. Among them: Bushwood Racing Partners' Better Talk 
Now, who won the 2004 John Deere Breeders' Cup Turf at Lone Star Park, 
last summer's United Nations, and was fourth in last summer's Arlington 
Million.

The Arlington 
Million I believe was the first million dollar race in the US.  It was 
the first older horse US race that I really took notice of when growing up 
in the UK.   European trainers have had a good degree of success in the 
race.  I do remember when Teleprompter won the race!

Update 425: Thank you to those of you who contributed to my dinner tonight 
at the Whip.  Very thoughtful, if unecessary.   Tomorrow will be a busy 
day.  We will have a few visitors coming to Fair Hill.  I am looking 
forward to hopefully providing a couple of hours of "entertainment".  For 
those coming, just plan to be at Parlo 1 at 8 am.  If you arrive early, 
then park by the starting gate and hang around there until 8. The starting 
gate is the first thing you will see as you drive in from the 213 
entrance.  Parlo 1 is then the first barn after the starting gate.   If 
you are late, still plan to come to Parlo 1 and ask for me.  Someone will 
tell you what's going on, you may just have to wait around for a while.  
As far as I know i'll have 3 horses to ride after the break (8:45 am) and 
perhaps one at 8 (not sure yet).  If not one at 8 we can use the time to 
look around a little.  Feel free to come tomorrow, or another saturday, 
whether you have told me you are coming or not.  If you have any trouble 
finding us call 
me.

Update 424:  Peter Brette just called and Bobby seems to have had another 
good day.  There is also a  lovely thank you from New Bolton Center: Thank 
You and Kennett Florist left this note:

Just got back from NBC. We loaded them up with treats for Bobby for the 
weekend. Dr Sweeney reassured me and also wanted to let you know that they 
ARE getting to Bobby. She had someone bring a basket up to him as I was 
there. I admire this lady more and more each day.

I was talking to one of the staff and they were thinking about planting a 
"Barbaro Garden" of bulbs, so in the srping they could be reminded of him 
with beautiful colors and flowers. I think this is a wonderful ideas, and 
will try to get my hands on some bulbs.

We have stud muffins on the way! So we will include those in the baskets 
next week. I was told on Wednesday by one of the guys that works with 
Bobby, that he really likes them. Anything the boy wants... the boy gets!! 
Love to you all!

WE BELIEVE!!

Rachel at Kennett Florist

Update 423: Another comfortable night for Barbaro (thursday night), and a 
good morning.  Peter has just visited and called to let me know (2:15 pm).  
Again he was upbeat.  I asked him about the roses (traditionally worn 
after the Derby win).  Apparently there were roses to wear after the 
Florida Derby win, he did not want anything to do with those, so for the 
KY Derby they did not want to push it.  They did do something for a couple 
of quick pictures (I think Edgar jumped off for those), but that was it.
update, friday, 2:25 pm

Update 422: Mike has written the next portion of "The Call":

"In an amazing turn of events here today , the horses are into the far 
turn and now BARBARO is making another move", shouts Durkin. You can sense 
the emotion in his baritone voice. It's a dual emotion of amazement and 
AWE. He knows that this is no ordinary race, and what he and all are 
witnessing is no ordinary horse. " For the first time Prado goes to his 
whip and BARBARO RESPONDS WITH A TREMENDOUS MOVE", hails Durkin," you can 
see the confidence now in this horse with every stride". Edgar tucks the 
whip away and begins to hand ride him as he passes horses on the outside, 
devouring the track and the opposition with a sublime display of raw 
power. He's now 8th, 7th, 6th, 5th, BARBARO HAS MOVED INTO 4TH with a big 
swooping move and looks like there's no stopping him now . It seems like 
seconds ago Edgar was in a life and death hold on this horse, but now 
BARBARO IS ON THE MOVE.....

(Mike perhaps post the entire call to the discussion boards 
?)

There have been a few questions about the history of Fair Hill.  This 
pre-Preakness article discusses Fair Hill and its history:  
Fair Hill provides Barbaro a peaceful home.  

A nice article on Showing Up that also has a couple of Barbaro mentions: 
Not 
here just for show: Barbaro's stablemate Showing Up favored in Secretariat 
Stakes.  The Barbaro mentions are:

"Barbaro is doing as well as can be expected," Roy Jackson said. "The main 
thing is to try to save him so he has a pain-free life. It's sort of going 
day by day. We have a special feeling for Barbaro because we bred him and 
raised him."

and

"They're only a 3-year-old once," Tagg said. "I decided to make the switch 
[to the grass] because I thought Barbaro would win the Triple Crown. I 
can't imagine he'd have beaten Barbaro [who went into the Preakness 
undefeated in six races]. I thought Showing Up might have a chance to be 
the [national] champion turf horse."

A relatively belated start and the ability to run on both dirt and turf 
are the common denominators in the careers of Showing Up and Barbaro, who 
won his first three starts on the grass before moving to the main track.

Now, the torch that Barbaro carried has been passed to Showing Up.

Update 421: Peter is planning to visit Barbaro today, a little later, so I 
will get a quick report of his visit probably mid afternoon.  He did speak 
to Michael this morning, but they did not discuss Bobby, so while I am 
unable to report that Bobby had a comfortable night (yet) I imagine if 
otherwise it would have been a topic of conversation.  At least that is 
what Peter, Emily, Grae and I discussed when I asked Peter about Bobby.  
Peter did mention Bobby had a nice massage last night and the end of day 
report was very positive.  

Update 420: A few have already commented on the note left on the site 
referenced in update 419 which indicated Bobby did not want anything to do 
with the roses after winning his Derby.  This is confirmed here.  I 
will also ask Peter about it when I get back to Fair Hill.  

It was another beautiful morning this morning riding out.  I have ridden 
five, and have two more to go.  The first set, coming out about 5:25 am, 
you can see the track and clocker's stand silhouetted by the moon.  As I 
was walking towards the track I could see about five horses jogging 
backwards (i.e. clockwise). This was Michael Matz's crew, again they were 
only lit by the moon.  Its a very peaceful time of the morning.

On to the weekend racing.  Graham (Motion) has Sweet Science in today in a 
stake at Saratoga.  He is also shipping Better Talk Now (Arlington 
Million) and Film 
Maker (Beverly D) to Chicago today.  They will van down to BWI and 
then fly to Chicago.  Adrian Rolls (he led up Last Suspect to win the 
National a long time ago), assistant to Graham (and good friend) will be 
overseeing the shipping.  I will call Adrian tomorrow to see how things 
are after both horses take a look at the race track.

Update 419: Michael Matz is still in Saratoga, I think he is returning on 
sunday, so again, the morning update will be closer to lunchtime.  Here is 
another nice painting of 
Barbaro, which will be auctioned for charity: Thoroughbred Charities 
of America (December 1).  I have added another update to the Fan 
Media page which includes the two latest Barbaro videos from Youtube.  

Thankfully Mike Rea is continuing along his long road to recover:  Hello 
Everyone.  

And finally, two poems:
The first, mysteriously dictated by Bobby to Melissa 
Harden:

Song of the Thoroughbred
By
Bobby Jackson
(Dictated to Melissa Harden)

Some run for the joy of it, some for the glory
Those who think otherwise, don't know the whole story
Some run to win races and that is their pleasure
Then some others that run just run at their leisure.

We love to run like the wind, that is our nature
And to run with the wind, what couldn't be greater.
From those who finish last to the noblest of steeds,
We are born and raised to run, for that is our breed.

If you watch us as youngsters, we're not standing still.
We are all running free, for that is our own will.
If all of you who doubt, would watch us in pastures,
While we're playing our games, to see who is faster,

Don't any of you doubt a thoroughbred's great heart.
All those of you who do, are so wrong from the start.
I still run in my dreams and will run when I'm healed.
It might not be as fast but; run someway I will.

We're magnificent creatures; - "Boy, don't  we know it."
And if you should doubt that , then you should just stowe it.
So all of you "Neigh-sayers" should just go away
Let me get back to healing and eating my hay.

The second, posted on the discussion boards: http://forums.delphiforums.com/timwoolley/messages?msg=127.1:

A Longed For Dream

Hopes so high that day, it seemed;
fulfillment of a longed for dream.
Raw burst of power, away you went;
another victory evident.

Then fate stepped in that one cruel day,
and stole the longed for dream away.
Confusion, fear, shown on your face;
am I not still to win this race?

An angel then lept quickly down,
concerned no longer with the crown.
And held you with such steely will,
in great attempts to keep you still.

The masses stood with heads bowed low;
your future they did fear to know.
But love stepped in and would not bend;
that day for you came not the end.

Delivered to a healer good,
who did what others seldom would.
There now is hope, where once was none,
although much yet need still be done.

Your courage, strength, unending grace,
will serve you well this final race.
A champion's heart you do possess;
Victorious! and nothing less.

The day will come to greet blue skies
and sunshine with your soulful eyes.
Let warm winds soothe and comfort you,
for all your pain and strife is through.

God graces you, each day, you see;
He gives you now new destiny.
A longed for dream desired so...
the dream IS YOU, sweet Barbaro.
- Sandra Gehri-Bergman 
 

Update 418: Peter just called (7pm).  All remains well with Bobby.  He had 
spoken to Michael again later today.  As we get ready for racing this 
weekend I thought I would post this article: Barbaro's owner has a 
consolation and see if you can spot the error!  Anyway, Showing Up 
does look like the real deal on the Turf, but we also know Bobby was 
outstanding on the turf and might have been campaigned later in his career 
on the turf in europe (something Peter has told me on more than one 
occasion)!

Its Saratoga sales time.  This is covered by the Daily Racing Form: $1.6 million 'Empire' filly tops 
sale (Glenye Cain seems very cool, we have chatted on the phone a 
couple of times, she adopted a retired racehorse that was once trained by 
Graham Motion).  However I prefer my friends report, via e-mail:

It's hard to describe the atmosphere at this sale.  Lots of heavy hitters 
from around the world, a select group of fancy horses, and lots of 
spectators dressed in cocktail attire. And lots of cocktails.  I think the 
lights are positioned to make the horses look extra glossy and 
consequently the people look glamorous too.  What's that saying?, "a place 
to see and be seen".   I didn't see as many horses as I'd have liked.  The 
Green Monkey's half sister looked really fancy, but she only brought 
$225,000 which is probably below the average for this sale.  I saw an 
Unbridled's Song colt sell for 1.3 million and a really nice Empire Maker 
filly sell for 1.6 million.  The sale was not over when I left.

Update 417: A quick update from Kennett Florist:

When we got to NBC today one of the wonderful ladies grabbed a few bunches 
of carrots and headed up to Bobby with them. It seems they've been 
awaiting our arrival the past few days... can that boy eat carrots or 
what? Everyone was very upbeat. Talked to Dr Sweeney, and she's going to 
do a little investigating on Dr R's favorite restaurant for us. I've said 
it before, but it bears repeating... what a wonderful place NBC is, and 
what amazing people! Thank you all!

WE BELIEVE!!

Update 416: A poem and a limerick.  The poem was e-mailed to me by Beverly 
Sweitzer:

PERFECTION
I searched o'er all the world for one thing perfect.
I looked at castles and at kingdoms men erect.
To every land and every clime I sought
To see if somewhere perfection could be bought.

I gazed at landscapes of many a land,
Admired the seashores and cities of every demand.
I looked at everything that man had made--
Cathedrals and columns of every shade.

I saw the bright lights of a beautiful city.
I tried to understand but my heart felt only pity
For those, who thought perfection they could meet
In the skyscraping columns above the street.

I saw the works called art, in music and in paint,
But each carried the touch of man's sinful taint.
I searched, but a perfect one I not find
In sorrow I vowed, nothing is perfect in humankind.

Taking courage again in my search, I turned
To nature to see if there perfection could be learned
From the beauty of rivers and mountains and streams
But none of these held the perfection of my dreams.

The glistening white of the snow, melts in the spring.
In fall, the leafless tree becomes an ugly thing.
The blue of the sky, when clouded, turns gray
The blossoms of flowers bloom only in May.

In despair I turned to my home on the plain
To find, in coat of burnished gold and black of tail and mane,
A horse, in all degrees, perfection ruled supreme.
The beauty of the stallion was the answer to my dream.

I've ridden in magnificent golden royal coaches,
Manmade monsters, but perfection, none approaches.
Machines of power and demons of space and speed
Cannot match the grace and beauty of that racing steed.

Oh, mount him to reach the goal of limitless length.
A thoroughbred giant of muscle and strength.
In all his magnificent glory, the indescribable king.
He stands above the world, perfect in everything.

Such faith and loyalty has never graced man's mind.
Why then, did God choose poor and sin-scarred humankind
I ask, in all this world beneath the sun,
To be called the masters of such a one.

By all the rules of heaven and earth
He must serve in bridle and saddle girth.
He was made to run and he will obey
With all his strength and power night or day.

In all my wandering of the trackless years,
In countless trips across two hemispheres,
At last I found the race in which he could compete.
Barbaro, perfection, there to find complete

and the limerick from Susan E:

A LIMERICK FOR BOBBY

There was a young stallion of lore,
 Who brought horseracing back to the fore.
Barbaro was his name,
Winning big was his game,
Till his right leg did break to the core.
To New Bolton young Bobby did go,
And much courage and grace he did show.
Strong, patient, and kind,
Bobby healed his right hind,
Till he suffered yet another blow.
Bobby had a doctor named Dean,
Of medical skills very keen.
Dean fixed Bobby's hoof,
And attached to the roof,
A sling in which Bobby could swing.
"Swing, Bobby, swing!" said the NBC staff,
And "Show us your boing!" staff did laugh.
So Bobby did swing,
In his magical sling,
Till everyone's heart did take wing.
More on this stallion named Bobby,
For him peppermints were a hobby.
The mints were so sweet,
He jumped to his feet,
And ran home through the NBC lobby.
Get well soon, Bobby.

Update 415: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (wednesday 
night).  Peter just called and had just spoken to Michael.  He sounded 
pretty upbeat.  A little delayed, but good news nonetheless!  Here is a 
good short article: BARBARO 
CONTINUES TO MEND (Ed Fountaine who has cited this web-site in an 
earlier report) a quick update, rehashing the press release from 
yesterday, with this tidbit at the end:

Barbaro's trainer, Michael Matz, was upbeat at Saratoga yesterday, noting 
that, although one of the screws in the Derby champ's fracture was broken, 
the bones appear to be mending well and the pastern joint is fusing. "We 
just have to keep our fingers crossed," he said.

The broken screw is not of concern as far as I am aware.

Fair Hill this morning was nice and uneventful.  I rode eight, one filly 
(Chappy) I broke out of the gate and breezed 3/8ths.  She is a two year 
old, and will likely get her gate card soon (required before first start).  
I took Gator Nation out back to jog around the hills and grasslands (grass 
has now been cut).  He seems in good spirits after his first start (nice 
closing third).  The 2yo who reared up with me yesterday did it again 
today (course he's just a bit of a colt, no real harm).  I stayed on!

Update 414: No update yet, just taking a break between sets.  Nice to see 
Barbaro's influence persisting (growing): University 
of Minnesota to build new equine center, the following is an excerpt:

"The recent events surrounding the horse Barbaro has revealed how 
specialized and advanced equine care has become," said University of 
Minnesota President Robert Bruininks. "This exciting new center shows our 
commitment to serve Minnesota's horse enthusiasts and the health of these 
beautiful animals." 

A nice article in the DailyLocal:  
Barbaro still fighting, it begins:

Incremental progress -- that's what Roy and Gretchen Jackson hope for each 
day from Barbaro, the Kentucky Derby-winning horse that has been battling 
the odds since a career-ending injury at the Preakness in May.

"We can't look ahead," Gretchen Jackson said. "Barbaro has had pretty good 
days for a while, so we're very grateful." 

and closes:

"The way he acts is amazing," Gretchen said. "He's really behaving himself 
and following the doctors' orders. He hasn't acted too bored. So many 
people are caring for him. He understands he needs help, so he puts up 
with it all because he knows he can't do it himself."

Recently, the Jacksons spent a few days in Saratoga, N.Y., where the 
premier racehorses in the country are competing. Numerous race fans 
offered their well wishes.

"It's been very hard at times, there's no denying it," Gretchen Jackson 
said. "We all have sadness that comes into our lives. You deal with it the 
best you can. Barbaro has come through a lot. But that's why he's a 
champion. He's headed in the right direction."

ABC's racing coverage on saturday might include an interview with 
the Jackson's, that would be very cool.

Ok, back to Fair Hill for two more horses.

Update 413: Much like the previous few days the morning update will be 
later, due to Michael being in Saratoga.  

Annie stopped by and left this comment (thanks Annie, 1:03 pm):

Hi. Its Annie that works for Michael in Fairhill. I'm one of his many 
excercise riders at the moment. I've worked with Michael and the team for 
nearly 4 years so that makes me a veteran amongst the riders that he has 
now. Alex asked me if I could get an interview with Eduardo so you could 
all know how he is coping. Well an interview was too much to ask. Eduardo 
is a very quiet shy kind of person. But he is a sweet heart. I'm not as 
good a reporter as Alex. If you could have been a fly on the wall you 
would laugh at my spanish or lack there of. As far as I could make out 
Eduardo misses Barbaro alot. He told me it was an honour working with 
Barbaro. That they shared alot of good times and he was glad to be there 
to try and calm Barbaro down that day on the race track. It broke his 
heart. to be so happy one moment and then for it all to change so fast. 
Like i said Eduardo didn't want to talk to much about it. He now has a 
vanity plate on the front of his truck of Barbaro winning the Kentuck 
derby.. looks very smart.
Thank you for all your kind words to Barbaro and the Team. Its nice to 
know he has such a big following of people to cheer him on as he gets 
better. Well its 9 o'clock and well past my bedtime. 4 am doesn't be long 
rolling around, and the horse world stops for no man or horse.
Thank you again..... good night

Also, another excellent video posted to the discussion board http://forums.delphiforums.com/timwoolley/messages?msg=79.1 
by jfrank74: Barbaro, 
We Believe.

And lets not forget our friend Mike Rea.  It 
seems he is enjoying your poetry!

Update 412: The following article: High 
knee action might give leg up is a good reminder of the reverance 
Bobby inspired before the Preakness.  This excerpt I loved:

The day after the Kentucky Derby, trainer Bob Baffert met with some 
reporters at his barn on the Churchill Downs backstretch and told this 
story about seeing Barbaro in the paddock before the race.

"My wife, Jill, said, 'Oh my God, look at him. He looks good.' But I go, 
'Yeah, I think he's a turf horse, honey.' She said, 'You better hope so.'"

The article also notes the potential for running Barbaro in europe after 
the triple crown.  I know this is something Peter was very keen on.   Its 
obviously an old article, but a great read.  

This T shirt offer 
looks very generous.  

Update 411: The following was just posted on the discussion board: http://forums.delphiforums.com/timwoolley/messages?msg=29.3:

Just wanted to say that I first saw Barbaro 2 days prior to the Holy Bull 
Stakes @ Gulfstream Park. While I didn't hug him, I stood by his stall 
while he was chewing on some hay, he turn around & watched/stared @ me for 
some several minutes. I was with a friend & Peter Brette was there talking 
to Dave & Myself about Bobby. He told me that while Barbaro was a 
super-super turf runner, he also was very fast on the dirt. He was by far 
the most Intelligent, Fastest Thoroughbred that he had ever 
galloped/breezed. Two days later, in the slop/dirt  in a  Grade 3, he ran 
his usual race, right behind the leaders & then blow right by them at the 
quarter pole.

 I have about 10/12 great pictures of him, 3 Win Circle pictures that you 
can purchase for about $20 from the Track Photo Shop, when they are open..

He is a Champion Of Champions, in that, not only on the track, but in his 
recovery/healing..He's very intelligent..We are all pulling for him....

Have a great day.......Clearwater Charlie & my Bichon Fraise,(Tommy)

Update 410: Another visit report from Rachel of Kennett Florist:

It has been one crazy day, I apologize for not posting sooner. We 
delivered a lovely breakfast of cinnamon buns, assorted danish, muffins, 
juices and coffee. There was a crowd when we got there, and wasn't sure 
they were going to let me finish setting up before they dug in! They again 
wanted me to convey their gratitude... I even heard someone comment 
'alright, another Barbaro breakfast!!' The mood seems really good. And of 
course we had our side of carrots that was delivered to Bobby for his 
breakfast treat.

We sent up another basket from the "fund" today. Since the staff has asked 
for more carrots, we loaded them up again this afternoon, along with lots 
of snacks (especially chocolate) for the staff. Thanks again to all of 
you!!

WE BELIEVE!! (always have and always will ;)

Rachel at Kennett Florist

Update 409: We have now opened up a discussion board and chat room at http://forums.delphiforums.com/timwoolley/start 
(thanks Prospero).  I opened this last night (quietly) and we already have 
about 90 members and some good q and a.  The discussion boards are great 
for asking questions, answering each others' questions etc.  The chat to 
brainstorm, bond etc.  I hope these tools compliment this site and the 
comments section here.  Please go over, take a look, and provide any 
feedback as we try to make each of the tools most appropriate for our 
needs.   You can read posts as a guest, but need to sign up (pretty simple 
and painless) to post and access chat.  Signup also makes it much easier 
to manage the discussion boards in terms of keeping tabs on what you have 
read etc.

All updates will always be posted here.  

On another note, we are climbing up google 
for Barbaro, now 21st!

Update 408: Peter Brette just called.  He managed a quick visit to Barbaro 
today and said he remains comfortable.  Michael also had a winner at 
Delaware so I managed to congratulate Peter (I only knew thanks to this 
site!)  A poem from TLC (from updates 
39: 4:00 pm):

Our message to Barbaro....

Everyday we say a prayer
for another comfortable night.
For together we stand,
this close knit group,
united against Barbaro's plight.

This beautiful being
has brought us together,
similar in so many ways.
For we all have the hope,
the thoughts, and the wishes
to see Barbaro through each of these days.

Stay strong we all say,
listen to your doctors,
show everyone how smart you are.
An inspiration to so many,
Barbaro, a bright shining star.

So Bobby, (as he is known by so many),
keep your head high and eyes all a'gleam.
For each of us knows
in our heart of hearts,
that you will fulfill our dream.