Wednesday, August 23, 2006

AUG 23-24, 2006 UPENN BARBARO RECOVERY REVIEW

Barbaro's Improvement "Absolutely Thrills" His Chief Surgeon
Yesterday, Dr. Dean Richardson was informally interviewed by DMV Dr. Debbye Turner (correspondent for CBS News Early Show)on LIVE VIDEO. She was amazed at "really great Barbaro looked" and even had to jog to keep up along side him as Dr. Dean took him on his late afternoon walk they do together. He said, "I am thrilled he pulls me around and that he's able to walk at a brisk pace comfortably...absolutely thrilled. He is doing far better than I thought he'd ever do...I am just thrilled."
Even though he's been on bedrest for a long time he's still a very strong horse.
What you're seeing today is nothing quite like he really is when healthy. Just ask his trainer Michael Matz. It takes at least 3 or 4 people to handle him. He is quite a handful."
Barbaro would prove that when Dr. Turner held her hand underneath his muzzle. He nipped several times as if to bite her. Dr. Richardson explained, "he's used to getting treats and thinks you have something for him. It's best not to tease him or he'll keep nipping."
The interview switched to what key factors turned Barbaro's recovery around and where is in terms of getting out of the woods. Dr. Richardson reported, "The attributing key factors to Barbaro's improved recovery are outstanding nursing care and effective pain management control keeping him comfortable. His fabulous attitude also played a key part."
"He just kept taking the blows thrown at him and he keeps fighting. If you can keep pain under control, it keeps a horse from giving up on life. Not eating, drinking, and interacting with your caregiver are signs he won't survive. That is why pain control to keep him comfortable is so important." Barbaro was on a number of pain killers included narcotics.
Summarizing, "he received various pain killers through an epidural catheter in his hind pelvis. He also received anesthesia making it easier. He had the catheter for over a month or more which is rather unusual. However, he is no longer using one. He gets an equivalent of 2 aspirin a day now to comfortably manage his pain."
When asked about his thoughts on when Barbaro might be out of the woods, Dr. Richardson
replied, "He still isn't out of the woods but at the moment he has a clearer path to walk through.
I can't really be confident until he's out of his R Hind leg cast." His concern remains about protecting Barbaro's right leg so that "he doesn't overload his left hind leg and laminitic foot."
Regarding Barbaro's chances for improving recovery, Dr. Richarson believes first is his survival However, he cautioned that Barbaro would be at least several more months in Intensive Care at NBC. "This is the best place for him so he his healing progress can be very closely managed, especially his left hind foot and the fusion process of his pastern bone in his right hind leg."

According to Dr. Turner's comment, "While no amount of money guarantees Barbaro's survival," she did say the Jacksons have already poured out over tens of thousands of dollars for his medical costs. Dr. Richardson reminded her, " if this were a human recovering, their medical care would be well over half a million to a million dollars. At least, we are nowhere near to that...not even close to that figure for Barbaro's veterinary care."

Dr. Richardson concluded that first -- ideally for Barbaro to have a full recovery, he must first regrow his L hoof completely and have full weight-bearing capability on a solidly fused pastern of his R hind leg. And second -- if he does recover fully, "he will certainly be able to do more than just walk again." He is hopeful that "by sometime in 2008, Barbaro will be capable of mounting mares and siring offspring."

So, as he continues to improve his recovery we have cause to celebrate...


The flow of get-well cards, gifts, and goodies continues to pour in on a daily basis here at NBC.

Editing & design by Cle ShawPosted by Picasa Barbaro's special stall area is adorned with 3rd graders handiwork and Love messages.

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

AUG 22, 2006 UPENN BARBARO's RECOVERY REVIEW

BARBARO's SPIRITS BRIGHTEN UPENN VETS DAYS(Sabina Pierce UPENN August 21 - 23, 2006)
Above Sabina Pierce captures exciting moments for Barbaro as he explores his new
outdoor environment which at first he was shocked to see. It took awhile as he explored his new surroundings. Almost 3 months later, he loves being outside for at least 30 minutes each day. More to come with latest UPENN update scheduled for today...
August 22, 2006 Tuesday 3:00 pm
KENNETT SQUARE, PA — 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.”
Next BARBARO UPDATE scheduled Tuesday, AUG 29, 2006
Upper Right, Lost In The Fog Does Track Runs In Early Morning Fog 2005 at Belmont.

Bottom Left, Lost In The Fog Wins Riva Ridge Belmont 2005

(Photo by Barbara Livingston 2005)

Above is a tribute to Lost In The Fog's Homecoming to Golden Gate Fields in California to spend his last remaining young days with trainer Greg Gilchrist, Harry Leo (LITF's owner) and groom Pascual Garcia. Terminal Lymphoma was confirmed late Friday evening by the UC DAVIS veterinarians who did special bloodwork, MRI (magnetic resonic imaging) to diagnose his condition. He did arrive home safely and still has a vigorous appetite.
Everyone was very happy to see him and will pamper him in his last few months of young life left. Known as the 2005's best sprinter, Lost In The Fog received the coveted Eclipse award at 4 years old. Enjoy the Barbara Livingston photos which can be viewed at with many more at her site.


Lost In The Fog Crossing The Finish Line Winning Kings Bishop 2005

Monday mid-noon August 21, 2006, after Dr. Richardson and his top medical team performed an extremely difficult surgery on ALCOR, he died while in transport back to Erie Zoo in Pennsylvania.


UPA photo shows Alcor the polar bear undergoing surgery at the New Bolton Center. He originally shattered his leg/forepaw while playing with his brother. "Doctors say the operation was difficult" as they operated on him Monday about noontime, August 21, 2006. The surgery lasted over 4 hours. Dr. Richardson said, "It was an extremely difficult surgery. The ulna forearm was broken just above the carpus wrist and we were able to repair it satisfactorily with 2 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 was listed in guarded conditon after the operation. Erie Zoo officials say he died in transport during the 7 hour trip back home. ABC 6 ACTION NEWS
0710 am UPDATE FROM ALEX Barbaro is stable and comfortable but condition is still serious..
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.
TIM WOOLLEY's CHAT ROOM FORUM


UPDATED POST TO DEBRA OUR WISCONSIN USA TEAM BARBARO AMBASSADOR & WEBMASTER creater for www.campaigningforbarbaro.com who continues to add new IN MEMORY OF to the SIDELINK PAGE inside the MOTHERSHIP. ..

http://www.petitiononline.com/reformhr/petition.html
RACEHORSE DEATHS 2006 RIP
--> -->
DEL MAR 12-->-->
Simply because-->-->
Blazing Sunset-->-->
Ugotadowhatugotado-->-->
Playful Blint-->-->
Chobigmoe-->-->
Esroh-->-->
Bonus Pack-->-->
New Joysey Jeff-->-->
Early Ronan-->-->
Sheriff -->-->Jordan-->-->-->-->
Go Bye Bye-->-->
It's Who You Know-->-->
--> -->
http://www.signonsandiego.com/sports/delmarraces//20060727-9999-1n27delmar.html-->-->
--> -->
-->-->ARLINGTON-->--> 24-->-->
Warned-->-->
Bernel Trail-->-->
I Love Lisa-->-->
Gully Washer-->-->
Easy Strider-->-->
Just Ducky-->-->
Grandelena-->-->
Three Hour Nap (injured – had surgery)-->-->
--> -->
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chicago/chi-0607160053jul16,1,7505537.story?page=2-->-->
--> -->
"Twenty-four horses have died this season because of running-related injuries at -->-->Arlington-->-->, all on the dirt surface. A minimum of 64 more have been retired or laid up because of running-related maladies. Last year, for the full four-month run of the -->-->Arlington-->--> meeting, only eight horses were euthanized because of main-track injuries in the afternoon. An additional four horses were humanely destroyed after suffering injuries on the grass surface."-->-->
http://www.suntimes.com/cgi-bin/print.cgi?getReferrer=http://www.suntimes.com/output/horse/cst-spt-arl30.html
-->-->CANTERBURY--> -->PARK-->-->-->-->
Counterfeit Gold-->-->-->-->
-->-->
RETAMA PARK Miss Pretty Promises

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/metro/stories/MYSA052106.1A.dying.racehorses.7e1a7e5.html

CHECK OUT BARBARO SPECIAL FARE CORNER FOR UPDATED NEWEST TRIBUTE POEM: Barbaro's Goodnight Whisperer by Cle Shaw August 22, 2006 that now appears in the STORIES and POEMS ANTHOLOGY of www.campaigningforbarbaro.com!

TO DATE AUGUST 22, 2006 THERE ARE 623 Plus 140 signatures on Number 411 signer.

(FOR SYNTHETIC HORSE RACING TRACK SAFETY): FAIR HILL TRAINING CENTER WILL BE ONE OF THE FIRST TO INSTALL TAPETA FIBER!
Please start today by signing the petition to help make race tracks safer!

On a much happier note, C.Jaffre at Tim Woolley's had this to say:
http://www.cbc.ca/cp/sports/060820/s082076.html
It seems Barbaro the horse isn't the only Barbaro into bouncy-bouncy. Though our Barbaro is no longer bouncing in the sling, an athlete from Toronto named Philip Barbaro made news today, winning a gold medal in the Pan-American Trampoline championships. CJ in Hamond IN.

WE COULD USE A BIT OF GOOD CHEER SO HERE IS Barbaro's Goodnight Whisperer Poem posted at TIM WOOLLEY's


Barbaro’s Goodnight Whisperer

By Cle Shaw -->-->August 22, 2006-->
(inspired by Bobby Jackson’s Big Heart)

From Dawn’s earliest sunbeams grazing your face,
You knew at once NBC was your new place.
Handling all kinds of setbacks you willed your way through,
Winning America’s hearts and your Dr. Dean’s too.
-->--> -->
Believe in Miracles and Believe in Barbaro,
Became the motto - as much as - Go Bobby Go.
Never once were you willing to give it all up,
For deep inside you knew there is a Victor’s cup.
--> -->
Arabian bloodlines - our American Champion,
Goodnight whisperer prays again -“Heal our blessed one.”
Prayer vigils at seven pm with lots to do,
Before moonlit evenings - graciously comfort you.
--> -->
There’s no denying that Miracles beyond faith occur,
Baffles scientific genius you’re improving as it were,
When millions gather around you to send their prayers to God,
All things are possible with Faith, yet why is that so odd?
--> -->
Gretchen and Roy, Michael and Peter, along with Dr. Dean,
Find there’s more “Greatness” in your heart than ever before seen.
Emotions run high for you get under everyone’s skin,
Your Charisma and Passion will not die but would rather win.
--> -->
Thankfully Compassion is not written in solid stone,
That Love beats the odds for horses we simply do not own.
Not until your presence graces - his do we understand why,
Resting your weary head on Edgar’s shoulder and you comply.
--> -->
Winning over sports writers placing you in public’s views,
Sympathy cares flowing as Niagra Falls were selfless truths.

Boggles the mind thinking about generosity’s human flow,
Rises far above comprehension our love for Barbaro.
--> -->
Brightness, intelligence, courage are burning fires we see,
In us as we strive living for human and horse dignity.
When immeasurable hours of doctoring and nursing care are done,
There is still much healing for Barbaro in his special race to run.
--> -->
Marathons are fleeting while concerns are still shining through,
Reflecting the most brilliant star lighting evening’s deep blue.
It’s love light guides the goodnight whisperer to ease away the pain.
With burning hopes that will not die as new horizons awaken again.
--> -->
May time fly so your bones and hoof heal quicker in stages to mend,
On the goodnight whisperer’s voice hear a song that will never end.
You’re the brightest spirit in our thoughts and prayers night and day.
Your burning desire inspires us to fight the same way.
--> -->
Still, Barbaro wishes Bernadini 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.
Bernadini 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.
--> -->
Take the goodnight whisperer’s advice - “Reserve, conserve, then move out,”
Knickers Barbaro, “But you two better play nice at Travers - running about.
No clipping, or tripping like Afleet Alex and definitely no slipping on turns.
Last thing anyone want to see are needless falls, heatstrokes, and burns.”
--> -->
“Taking your wisdom to heart, you’re incredibly smart,” chime the pair.
“Did you know you’re now more famous than Ginger Rogers and Fred Estaire?
Somewhere we heard by spread of the word that your heroism is no fable.
Seabiscuit’s pride lives just inside making you better than even Clark Gable.”
--> -->
And now the goodnight whisperer gives special thanks to Alex and Tim,
For humoring Barbaro’s lighter fare that makes us all laugh with him.
Swift-fleeted feet were always there accompanied by sharp witty mind.
Qualities so rare as a Pink Panther Gem in the horse racing world to find.
--> -->
Moonlight beams now enter in where Sunlight rays once were,
The brightest evening star is never far from where Barbaro might stir.
Dreaming once again of that Kentucky Derby race seven lengths ahead,
Will be our hero’s healing grace night and day - rising and going to bed!

Monday, August 21, 2006

AUG 21, 2006 UPENN BARBARO RECOVERY REVIEW

Barbarbo Dedicates Today's Special Page To Lost In The Fog's Homecoming
Weekend Prayer Vigil with Alex Brown and Friends around globe prayers include Lost In The Fog and trainers Greg Gilchrist, Mike Rea, and Barbaro's favorite Michael Matz. Barbaro continues to be stable and comfortable this morning, August 21, 2006 with more updates later. August 22, 2006 UPENN VETS Medical Team Barbaro will update Bobby fans. Latest release video from UPENN Vets is available (see yesterday's section, UPDATE FROM ALEX & UPENN VET: NEW VIDEO RELEASE with Dr. Dean and BARBARO (need to use QUICKTIME)
Sabina Pierce's Photo taken this weekend shows Barbaro continues to thoroughly enjoy grazing since his first days if initial shock wondering where he was according to Dr. Dean Richardson.


As Barbaro improves, there are newly added VIDEOs from Melissa Harden, our Georgia USA TEAM BARBARO Ambassador on her website FOR THE LOVE OF BARBARO. Click on it to visit and enjoy the spunky uplifting music that accompanies it. Her site also includes Barbaro Poems Anthology and special VIDEO section which she has updated with the newest one of Barbaro grazing. It is definitely worth a look. Her site would not have been possible, save for Alex Brown at TIM WOOLLEY RACING. Thank You Alex and friends at Tim Woolleys.
PLEASE NOTE:
IF YOU ARE HAVING TROUBLE VIEWING HER SITE USING INTERNET EXPLORER 6.0 or 7.0 YOU WILL NEED TO DOWNLOAD "AVANT BROWSER". IT WORKS WITH INTERNET EXPLORER & MAKES YOUR LIFE EASIER SO YOU CAN VIEW HER VIDEOS & POEMS ANOTHOGY which she has graciously helped put together so everyone can find it easier. CHECK OUT THE STORIES section with POEMS added recently at www.campaigningforbarbaro.com .

***Already tried the problem solver of enabling the active X controls in the Security Tab section of Internet Explorer options and it still does not work. You have to use AVANT Browser which handles JAVA Sun applidations very well -- no problems.


We dedicate Barbara Livingston's candid view of quiet moments together for trainer Greg Gilchrist and Lost In The Fog. There is an entire section Barbara put together for a tribute to the both. May the last remaining days of LITF and Greg's time with him be the best. Barbaro and company wish this for all the families caring for LITF. Special poems and videos have been dedicated to the LITF team (see AUG 20, 2006, Sunday UPDATES). LOST IN THE FOG VIDEO TRIBUTES
Additional UPDATES from TIM WOOLLEYs By ALEX BROWN
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.
MORE FROM BARBARA LIVINGSTON WITH UPDATED PHOTOS on Barbaro and Lost In The Fog which includes her greatest racing photos and times LITF spends with Greg Gilcrest and friends. WELCOME TO BARBARA LIVINGSTON


design & editing by Cle ShawPosted by Picasa

Sunday, August 20, 2006

AUG 20, 2006 UPENN BARBARO's RECOVERY REVIEW

Barbaro Continues To Amaze And Graze Much To Medical Team Barbaro's Delight Recent photos taken by Sabina Pierce (University of Pennsylvania) show Barbaro still enjoying mischieveous nips in first photo "Me and Barbaro". NBC's ICU staff hold a huge morning round "Meet and Greet" session with Dr. Dean Richardson's favorite charismatic boy. Barbaro continues to improve with 30 minute outdoor grazing. Dr. Richardson sees Barbaro/Bobby is having a bit of trouble keeping the flies away because of his "too short" tail. But never fear, the
ICU team show up from the rear to lend special assistance in the form of powerful bug repellent.

Sabina's latest photo shows Barbaro happily grazing and loving the sunshine and fresh air which he sorely missed for almost 3 months. In Jeannine Edwards Interview (ABC news 3 pm EST) with the Jacksons (ALEX update 435), this is what transpired. Gretchen and Roy were very upbeat with Barbaro's latest improvement. Just a few weeks back, they thought it was the end when Dr. Dean told them their Bobby was badly foundering in his LH hoof/foot. 'Everyone was crying including Dean. He had really fallen in love with Barbaro and there was only one other horse that he ever became really attached to...an Arabian stallion that also had a lot of charisma and intelligence." Gretchen and Roy also stated that they were "so pleased with how Barbaro has kept his fighting spirit and appears to be turning a corner. He is no longer on IV drips, the epidural is out, he just receives some pain management shots and spending less time in the sling...It was Dean's idea to take Barbaro out for grass the other day... We were all here visiting when out of the blue Dean says, "Let's take him outside!" So out he marched (Dean leading him), eyes wide open and eager, and Roy said Barbaro just stood there looking around for a few minutes, just taking it all in before dropping his head to graze. My interpretation of that would be Barbaro thinking, "Where the hell am I???"' UPDATE FROM ALEX & UPENN VET: NEW VIDEO RELEASE with Dr. Dean and BARBARO (need to use QUICKTIME)
Roy and Gretchen Jackson both stated, "Michael has tirelessly gone to see Barbaro every day...he is so personally and emotionally invested in his horse's ordeal." Roy mentioned, "he continues to be amazed at the interest in and the outpouring of support for Barbaro's condition...they simply cannot believe it. It's bafffling, but wonderful...They are happy to help keep the world informed of how Barbaro is doing because they know how people are yearning for updates. " They also visit Tim Woolley's Racing website. Jeannine says that it's the "Go-To-Site-for Barbaro." The Jacksons also own Showing Up who continues to amaze others by winning his races too (referencing his winning Secretariat Stakes as Marcus Hersh and others ask about Barbaro). Peter Brette also visits Barbaro whenever he gets the chance according to Alex.
Sunday Morning update from Alex: Barbaro continues to remain stable and comfortable but in serious condition. Will get more later....in the day...

New York Racing Association's photo shows Lost In The Fog and Russell Baze powering home to win is $150,000 Bay Shore Race April 9, 2005. Later this 4 year-old colt became sprinter of the year winning the coveted Eclipse Award 2005. ESPN

The following is a tribute to Lost In The Fog who will return to Golden Gate Fields home later today, Sunday afternoon. He has terminal lymphoma of the spleen with an inoperable tumor near his spine. University of California DAVIS Veterinary School of Medicine and trainer Greg Gilchrist decided that his last days should be spent in a comfortable place he loves most. LITF's cancer has metastasized and everyone was visibly shaken by the news. Another egg-sized splenic turmor was discovered Friday August 18th where the original one was sited. "As his trainer, we've been through so much together. He did so much for me I owe that much to the horse. He is like a brother to me. I have more respect for this horse than 70 to 75 percent of the people I deal with.
If he were human, he'd be the type of guy you want to hang around. This will be a very tough time for me." When its his time, Lost In The Fog will be cremated and returned to his upbringing at
Southern Chase Farm in Ocala, Florida.

Now we all understand just why and how much Barbaro and Lost In The Fog and others like them mean so very much to their trainers who have been through all the tough and great times together.
(design, & commentary by cle shaw)
(special thanks and cheers to Alex Brown)
Dear "Lost In The Fog", by Lori C.

This entry was posted on 8/19/2006 10:08 PM and is filed under Lost In The Fog.
Dear Lost in the Fog,
Most of us didn't have the pleasure of knowing you.
Yet our love for you guys is infinite.
If you could feel the energy of our love, you would stand amazed.
Close your eyes LITF, if just for a moment
As our energy surrounds you,
may you gaze into the sky, take a deep breath, take in our love -
and feel the hundreds of thousands of our caring arms around you.
Right Now LITF, Right Now.
May you stand at attention for just a moment,
so we can salute you-
Right Now LITF, right now.
You came to us, more magnificent
than one could imagine
And,
there will be a place...
again -
Where we will see you
Close your eyes, if just for a moment
as we close our eyes with you -
Right Now LITF, right now.
All our Love Lori C.and all from the Tim Woolley Site.
Cle for BARBARO wrote:Barbaro would like to dedicate Beverly Sweitzer's Poem and Limerick that he heard about over at Tim Woolleys. He appreciates all that Alex Brown does and besides eating Lael grass from home, looks forward to Michael's daily visits which brighten his day!"Truly amazed at how wonderfully thoughtful all these poems are," replied our Charismatic Boy (Dr.D's favorite nickname for BJ). And, "Could you please dedicate PERFECTION to Lost In The Fog for me? Thanks guys..."
"PEFECTION" by Beverly Sweitzer(special dedication request from Barbaro to Lost In The Fog)
I searched o'er all the world for one thing perfect.
I looked at castles and 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 could 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 into spring.
In fall, the leafless tree becomes and ugly thing.
The blue of the sky, when clouded, turns gray.
The blossoms of flowers only bloom in May.
In despair I turned to my home on the plain.
To find, in coat of burnished gold and black 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, pefect in everything.
Such faith and loyalty has spaced 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 and day.
In all my wondering of the trackless years,
In countless trips across the hemispheres,
At last I found the race in which he could compete.
Barbaro, perfection, there to find complete.Reply to this


8/20/2006 12:54 PM Wm & CL wrote:*****BARBARO's TRIBUTE TO LOST IN THE FOG***** by WM & CL Shaw & Bobby's Big Heart August 20, 2006
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 thatplays 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."
Listed as Number 1 on Yahoo and Google Search Campaigning For Barbaro