Barbaro was a very successful racehorse before his truly devastating injury. After winning the 2006 Kentucky Derby by 7 lengths, he made his bid for the Triple Crown. Just weeks later in the Preakness Stakes, he attempted to keep his undefeated title. Unusually, he broke through the starting gate, perhaps a sign for the devastation to come. Before the first turn he fractured his right rear long pastern and cannon bone in more than 20 places. Opposed to euthanizing on the track, Barbaro was inducted into surgery immediately in an attempt to save his life. The surgery was successful, but after his right rear leg began to heal, his left rear developed laminitis and 80% of his hoof was removed. Laminitis soon developed in both front feet and he was humanely euthanized to prevent any further discomfort. This champion will forever be honored with a statue placed outside of Churchill Downs, the last track he raced at to cross under the wire.
Barbaro is a lean horse, with powerful muscling over is hind end. His neck is very thin and appears almost “ewe necked” because of how curved upward it is. This picture does not reveal any noticeable conformational faults.
Barbaro is a lean horse, with powerful muscling over is hind end. His neck is very thin and appears almost “ewe necked” because of how curved upward it is. This picture does not reveal any noticeable conformational faults.
To see Barbaro break-down in the Preakness Stakes please jump to: 6:45