Racing Champion Barbaro Passes
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by user Christof
Little racing colts in barns across the world are in mourning today as news has broken that horse racing champion Barbaro has passed away. Doctors at the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Hospital at New Bolton , where Barbaro has been a patient since last May, euthanized the champion this morning. Barbaro was four years old.
Barbaro won the 2006 Kentucky Derby in commanding fashion. Sadly, in Barbaro’s next race, the Preakness Derby, he suffered what would become a mortal injury. During the early stages of the Preakness, Barbaro shattered his right hind leg. Barbaro was transported immediately from the race track to the New Bolton facility. There, he underwent reconstructive surgery on the leg. The good news was that the surgery itself was a success. The bad news was that complications arose from the surgery and the recovery that led to Barbaro’s demise.
A debate may now occur as to whether attempting to save Barbaro’s life was worth it, or even proper to do so. We, however, live in a world that simply does not respect the value of life, including lives of animals. I believe, therefore, that it was worth the effort to try and save Barbaro’s life. Sure, the effort ultimately did not succeed, however, the lessons provided by this effort could be beneficial to all of mankind.
The saddest thought in regard to Barbaro himself is the fact that he did not get a chance at his second career, that of being a stud! Barbaro did not get a chance to graze in wide open pasture while looking for some action. Hence, Barbaro never got the chance to father any colts.
Rest in peace, Barbaro. A true racing champion!
