######

Jo thanks :)

will be watching the races between my fingers!

Ro & Brady

Posted by: Rosemarie at November 4, 2006 1:40 PM

Good Morning Bobby, Our Miracle Boy.....today should have been your crowning glory day, but you have come to mean so much more than an undefeated Champion......Big Congrats to Tim and RedAspen, just saw the picture (beautiful) so happy for you. Godspeed to all the horses running today, may they all come home safe. I am very excited about watching all of the races, but especially the Classic.

Thanks, Alex! Isn't she a pretty girl? :-)

Good Morning Sweetheart! The sun is shining bright in Kentucky this morning. Hope it is in Kennett Square also. While the racing world is fixated on Churchill this afternoon, the hearts of the racing world are with you at New Bolton. Be strong and courageous, you're winning the most important race of all. No matter who wins today, their victory will pale in comparision to the victory you are winning.

Love you and talk to you later.

Kim
Nicholasville, KY

Congratulations, Tim!

Alex, have a wonderful time in KY~

I'm so excited I can't sit still! May everyone come home safe and sound.

Congratulations to Tim and RedAspen!!! She wore the auspicious number 8 I see!! Cool! Lava Man has it in the classic I think?
God speed to all the horses running today, may they run a good and safe race. (We don't have cable, so will wait to see the results.)

Have a good bath day Barbaro! Enjoy your day and get lots of extra hugs and scratchies. Everyone is thinking of you today. . . take care everyone.

### Are my eyes playing tricks ? Was reading most recent posts - there was mention of Bernardini being scratched - the board changed - and the posts are gone ! Updates anyone ?

Sherry - Arizona

For fun I am posting my Picks for the Breeders' Cup, greatest racing to date knowing Bobby would have left them in the dust!
Steve?s Picks for Breeders? Cup 2006

RACE #3
Juvenile Fillies
Win pick: Dreaming of Anna, why? Speed off the wall
Value picks: #12, #10

Race #4
Juvenile Colts
Win pick: Principles Secret, why? Grade two stakes win, improving speed
Value picks; #7, #9

Race #5
Turf 3 years and up Girls
Win pick: Ouija Board, why? Consistent top form
Value picks: #7, #10

Race #6
BCSprint-G1
Win pick: Henny Hughes, why? This horse is the class in the race, has run iin better races
Value picks: #6, #1

Race #7
Mile Turf
Win pick: Librettist, why? Specialist in mile, Euro horse
Value picks: #7, #6

Race #8
Distaff
Win pick: Pine Island, why? 6 races 4 G1?s always in the money
Value picks: #7, #6

Race #9
1 ? miles Turf
Win pick: Hurricane Ron, why? Likes distance, Euro horse
Value picks; #4, #10

Race #10
Win pick: David Junior, why? Great Euro horse out of Pleasant Tap
Value picks: #11, #8

Barbaro, you are truly THE horse that America cares about. I think you are inspiring people to start caring about all the horses. I look forward to the day when both you and Bernardini and Bluegrass Cat and Giacomo and all the other great horses this year are in a retirement pasture, way past your stallion days, just enjoying life the way we all want to when we get old. You deserve it, as do all the horses, fast or slow, no matter what their purpose. Wouldn't it be cool to see Barbaro and Bernardini in a pasture together somewhere? Although maybe with two alpha horses, that may not work.

I, like most of you, wrote a response to the Star-Tribune, and I hope they are flooded with responses informing them of the truth, and are willing to publish an op-ed piece.

Alex, have a great time at the Breeders' Cup. I hope you are getting a lot of respect from your fellow horsemen and women. You deserve it.

Barbaro, it dropped to 20 degrees here in western Maryland this morning. I hope you are warm and comfy in your stall, and get out later to feel the sunshine. My dog Piper, a Gordon setter, loves this weather. She can run without getting too hot, and she doesn't have snow and ice to contend with.

Prayers for all humans and animals who need them, Erin, Linda H., Mike Rea, Avi, Rodni, Gift, Becky's golden, the Netherlands horses, and everyone else. I will be rooting for all the horses today; there are so many inspiring stories. I know they all can't win, but I hope someday horse racing gets the respect it deserves, and competitors are rewarded as well. I will also be rooting for Mr. Boxcar tomorrow, and yea for Redaspen yesterday.

I haven't had time to post lately, have been busy with my (very small) wedding, but I even managed to bring up Barbaro and the horse slaughter issue while talking with some of my guests. I think they got it.

Karen in MD

I was going to do my TVG, if it's not too late. But, I have Lava Man to win, Now I will go and do my TVG betting.

Morning Barbaro. Keep healing. We love you. Have agreat time Alex we will be watching. Thank you

Socorro...I tried to do mine earlier but the races weren't up. I hope I'm not too late. I'll try again now.

I agree with some of Steve's picks, but not all
;)

there was a really good article in today's new york times that even had a short paragraph on the friends of barbaro (yup, we've made it to the big times), i just tried to google the article to post it but couldn't find it....just a heads up in case anyone else can find it and post. it says that the jacksons won't be in louisville today to watch the races live.

Has anyone found out anything for sure about Bernardini running?

Alex -
Have a wonderful day!

I've asked the angels to watch over you and everyone at the Breeders Cup, especially the horses, that all will be safe today.

Barbaro-I'm praying for a little more hoof today and that you will be comfortable.

Jo
nice article...

For Barbaro, this is just another day by day

Wrote a response, and told him Barbaro and TWR site. Has me now working to pass the bill S1915. And I thanked him for the nice article too.

Congrats Tim!

cindy -- laura said that he was scratched this morning....

Everyone...I think Bernardini being scratched must be a mistake as it isn't shown anywhere else.

OMG - I sure hope Bernardini's ok...I think he is a beautiful horse of God's creation and poetry in motion when he runs...and I hold no resentment in my heart towards him that he has been successful while Barbaro has been hospitalized...because we all know that BIG BOSS HORSE has been successful in everything he has been asked to do (including recuperating calmly and consistently)!

BARBARO - Good morning, you gorgeous hunk! Snuggle in late this morning until it warms up - it's a chipper nipper day in southern CT! If you have any good tips on the Breeders' Cup races, how about sharing them with all your friends here - LOL! Have a restful, healing day and enjoy your bath!
BARBARO - CHAMPION OF MY HEART
Nancy

MY FERVENT PRAYER IS SAFE HOME FOR ALL BRAVE HORSES WHO PUT HOOVES TO TRACK AT THE BREEDERS' CUP AND AT ALL OTHER RACES THIS WEEKEND!

#####
FELIX - you and my Princess Maizie seem to be the senior citizens of our cat world here, and both struggling to survive. Maizie, Seamus and I send you our prayers and good wishes...I hope you are easier to medicate than the feisty Maizie.
Your friends in CT

Posted by: Nancy in CT at November 4, 2006 1:26 PM

CONGRATULATIONS TO TIM WOOLLEY AND REDASPEN, and special thanks to Tim for hosting us! Redaspen is just gorgeous...and quite successful, I see!
Brava to your beauty!
Nancy

Nice snippet on Redaspen - boy, she's a gorgeous color, isn't she? She's having a nice career, by the looks of it as well....you go, girl!

Peg

HRTV will start Breeders Cup coverage in 30 mins. It'll probably be interesting and informative.

We were at the Meadowlands last night and watched RedAspen run an tremendous race. We even had some nice money on RedAspen. Congrats guys! We love Barbaro!!

I know that we're all going to be pretty wrapped up in the Breeders' Cup today but here are some other races of interest...

DELAWARE

Race 3...11.39am
Creve Coeur (Graham Motion)
Crafty Tricker (Steve Klesaris owned/trained)

Race 7...2.10pm
Sense of Class (Michael Matz)

Race 8...2.50pm
Michael's Doll (Michael Matz)
Baby Games (Steve Klesaris)
The Holy One (Steve Klesaris owned/trained)

AQUEDUCT

Race 2...12.12pm
Blue Sky God (Barclay Tagg)

Teammate, Afrashad and Woodlander are also running.

Good luck, safe race and journey home to ALL horses running today!

Tim and Alex -

Congratulations on your win with REDASPEN! Not only are we 'FANS OF BARBARO,' but we are also 'FANS OF TWR.'

JO (UK) -

I agree with you, there has to be some kind of mistake. I have been trying to check all major sites, NTRA, CNN, Yahoo. If he has been scratched hopefully it won't be because he is injured.

I would like to see Bernardini win so that he can really enjoy a win and be respected, but then you have so many great guys out there. I feel Lava Man will win, but then there's Gorgeous George (sentimental and just plain like the guy), some feel Giacomo will be the big upset. HELP!!!

Boy, glad I'm not betting real money.

All in all, as long as none of the horses are injured that alone is a win itself.

Pictures of the Netherlands horse rescue at
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/in_pictures/6114596.stm

Hi, Barbaro - will be at the vigil for you tonight at 7 PM. Meanwhile keep growing that hoof!

####
Hi Nancy in CT! How is Maizie? I think of you and Maizie and hope you are both well.

Congrats to Tim and Redaspen!!!! Great win for you both. She payed a mighty hefty return too!!
So happy for you, Tim!!

Everyone enjoy the races today. Do you think they will have some sort of Barbaro coverage? Has anyone heard anything about it?

Praying for a safe passage for all who run today.

And to the Big Boss Man; Keep running your race, Barbaro. You're winning!!! Enjoy your bath today and know you are loved.

Have a great day all...enjoy the races.

Morning, Barbaro! Time to rise and shine, maybe get out to graze and see Mocha. By the way, Big Guy, I am not disappointed that you're not at Breeder's Cup today...God has a bigger plan for you and the race you're running now is more important than any race on a Saturday could be. The legacy you're building now is so much more...I'm just so thankful that you're with us and thriving. These past 5 months you've shown the world what the spirit and courage of a true champion really is, we are so proud of you. Thank God for the blessings on Barbaro and continue to bless him with continued healing.

Foggy, you taught us more important lessons too, about courage and spirit..

God bless all the horses and riders in the Breeder's Cup today. Please bring them from start to finish safe and sound.

God bless Linda H, Jeff, BDude, Sooner, Cahill, Felix, Darlin, Foggy, Star, Opie, Gifted Colors, Avi, Sunny, Pio, Dilly, BG, Lucky, Princess Woody and all who need God's care today.

Have a great Breeder's Cup day everyone!

HAY, HAY HAY EVERYONE!!!

I AM SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO PUMPED FOR THE BREEDERS' CUP TODAY! I could barely sleep all night thinking about getting psyched and ready for ALL of the action! Jo UK I thought of you, especially because I KNOW how much you're looking forward to this day. Good Luck to you and "Gorgeous George" in The Classic!!!

And Jo, to answer your question about Redaspen or Red Aspen, I just did a "search" and Equibase is showing it as one word; i.e. "Redaspen!!"

AND THAT BRINGS ME TO MY NEXT CHAPTER!!!

CONGRATS TO TIM AND REDASPEN FOR THEIR GREAT WIN YESTERDAY! THINGS ARE LOOKING VERY VERY GOOD!!!
#################################################

I was out to dinner last night and when I returned home quite late GUESS WHAT WAS SITTING OUTSIDE MY DOOR??? A rather large box and INSIDE there HE WAS ... not even the least bit disturbed that he (A Had to wait in his "stall" all those hours outside without being able to graze and B) that it took so long for me to "free his soul" from the darkness!!!

SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO ... right on cue ... Breeders Cup Day, I have my Barbaro right here ... is this an omen or what for The Classic? That 14th empty gate will have The Spirit of Barbaro racing, and I firmly believe that whichever horse wins this race will do so because it will be Bobby's choice and energy that dictates the win. So, if Bernardini wins The Classic, it will be my belief that Barbaro's positive energy and spirit will be the driving force behind it ... BUT ... if another horse should win, then that will also be because of Bobby's personal choice and the 'vibes' that he sends to "that" horse. Crazy? Maybe so but I truly believe that Barbaro will have a very strong and significant effect on the winner of The Classic today ...
###################################################

QUESTION ABOUT BREYER BARBARO ... This is my first Breyer model so I've never seen the "packaging" before and it's impressive and beautiful ... BUT ... Bobby is still in a box encased with a cellophane/plastic window ... he's not "free", he's "boxed in" ...

So, have most of you left him displayed inside the box or have you taken him out and let him roam and keep the box in a closet somewhere? This is really important to me because I don't know what one does with a Breyer model in such an impressive box with name and all and the COA on the back of the box. So, please enlighten me on this, FOBs!!
#################################################

YESTERDAY, I went to the Breeders Countdown site and I looked over all of the races so that I would be somewhat literate today, and I also wanted to have some incentive for rooting for certain horses; i.e.if they are connected either to the Jacksons, Michael, Graham Motion, which mounts Edgar has and my own personal choices based on other criteria. So here's what I came away with:

In the Juvenile "boys", 1/16 on dirt, my first choice is "Principle Secret" because of bloodlines traced back to Secretariat, so that was a "no brainer" for me. But Edgar is up on King of the Roxy, so I can root for him, too, just in case.

In the Filly/Mary Turf at 1 3/8, of course, I will read for Graham Motion'd "Film Maker" with Edgar up. But I will also be excited to watch the favorite Ouija Board and also Wait A While and Honey Ryder since they seem to have the best odds going into this race, and it should be a good one!!

In the Sprint - 6F on dirt, of course, everyone's eyes will be on Henny Hughes 2-1 BUT I've been hearing lots of stuff on Bordonaro at 3-1 and that he just might overtake Henny in this race, so it will be a great match-up between these two sprinters. And, Edgar is up on "Nightmare Affair" at 30-1 so it will be fun to see if a longshot can come "in the money" with a great ride from Prado.

In the "Mile" on Turf ... my heart and soul will be with "Gorella" at 4-1 since she's not afraid to "run with the bulls" ... oops I mean "boys". But Aragorn is the strong favorite among the fellas so I'll enjoy watching him BUT Edgar is up on "Badge of Silver" at 12-1 so that will be a sentimental favorite for me also to watch.

In the "Distaff", 1 1/8 on Dirt ... OF COURSE it will be Michael's "ROUND POND" with Edgar up ...BUT it will be exciting to watch the heavy favorite "Fleet Indian" ... Hopefully, Round Pond will score a MAJOR upset victory for Michael today!!!

In the John Deere Turf, 1 1/2 and the longest race of the day, Edgar is riding one of the favorites, Cacique, so that's my choice, too, but I've got a bit of a personal stake in "Scorpion" because I R ONE!!! So we'll see if his "stinger" will render the others helpless. Hurricane Run is another favorite at 3-1 as is English Channel at 7-2, so it will be fun to watch all of this action ... AND Graham Motion's "Better Talk Now" will have the lucky #8 position coming out of the gate!!

AND NOW FOR THE REAL 'SPORT OF KINGS' RACE ... THE CLASSIC, 1 1/4 on Dirt ... what tangled webs we can weave around this one, eh?

Edgar's up on Premium Tap at 30-1
Jackson-owned Perfect Drift, the "old man" of the field is running at 20-1
Sun King has a good chance at 15-1
And we have the likes of Lawyer Ron, David Junior, Brother Derek, Flower Alley and let's not forget Giacomo, among this very impressive fraternity ...

AND THEN, AND THEN ... The "Field of Dreams Team" of this Main Event and this is where all eyes will be fixed ... It reads like a Heavyweight Championship Boxing Match with NO undercard ... it's the Yankees "Murderer's Row" of the 40s ... it's the 1980 US Olympic Team, The Ryder Cup, The Stanley Cup and the Super Bowl team of champions, nostrils flared, manes flying in the win, tails whipped into an outstretched frenzy and steam pouring off their glistening coats ...

THE PRETENDERS TO THE CROWN ...

BERNARDINI ... Can he prove, once and for all, that he is, indeed, 3 year old champion or Horse of the Year? If he wins today, he will silence all naysayers and doubters. But does he have enough to take it all from the Contenders:

GEORGE WASHINGTON ... the fastest miler in the world on grass ... can he step up to the plate today, kick the dirt and go the 1 1/4 distance?

INVASOR ... at 5-1 with a most impressive record, can he beat Lava Man and the rest of the field to prove that he is the best horse in The Classic today?

LAVA MAN ... the West Coast Wonder at 6-1 who's got a string of impressive victories behind him ... 6 ... but can his blue-collar background increase his good fortune and do it on the East Coast at Churchill and beat blue-blooded Bernardini to take the coveted prize back home to California?

And what about "THE PRESENCE OF GREATNESS" ... the INTANGIBLES ... THE BARBARO EFFECT ...How much will his spirit affect the outcome of this race? How many thousands of people sitting in the stands and clubhouse today will be thinking "What If?" and how many people's hearts and souls will STILL be thinking of Barbaro winning the biggest race of distance and stamina of his or anyone else's lifetime and feel his absence in the starting gate at 5:20 PM today? And how will that energy impact which horse crosses the finish line?

If everyone's hearts are still with Barbaro, will they want Bernardini to win this race? Well, if you hold out any hope that "Horse of the Year" honors could STILL go to Barbaro for reasons that far surpass what he did on the racetracks, then "Yes" you would want Bernardini to win The Classic and be crowned "3 year old Champion". Why? Because, if by some quirk of fate, neither Lava Man nor Invasor comes in an impressive second, then that leaves the door wide open for "Horse of the Year" to be contested. Maybe this would be the best scenario for Bobby to win "Horse of the Year" once the 3 year old prize was off the table and firmly implanted on Bernardini's mantle, and it would be deserving for certain.

But "Horse of the Year" ... that's the real prize that we need to keep our eyes on ... Can Barbaro's race, the one he's been running AFTER the Preakness, finally bring him across the Finish Line and into The Winner's Circle after all?

Are we truly "Being In The Presence of Greatness?" And if that IS the personal truth of everyone watching this race today and feeling the spirit and energy of Barbaro swirling, captivating and mesmerizing all around them - even IN and BECAUSE of his absence - then this Giant Shadow that he casts can not and will not be overshadowed, overlooked or neglected by anything or anyone else today.

KEEP OUR EYES ON "THAT" PRIZE ...

Wondering how Gifted Colors is doing? Did a search on the board and didn't see an update. Has anyone seen anything.

Socorro...I understand what you mean about Bernardini. It would put a stop to all the negative stuff about him. I didn't bother betting on him though because it's not worth it at 1/1 although he's in my top 3! I did cheat and bet on a few others to make up for it though...just in case it's not his day.

Congratulations Tim on Redaspen's win!!!

Hi All
The email tru our website is not working. All bid emails need to be sent TO kennettflorist@ftdimail.com
Hat 300.00 now Print 1000.00
Alie

Good morning beautiful boy. Hope you get to go out and graze today and treats await you after your bath. Your assignment is to follow Doc's orders and mend that toe and grow that hoof. You are forever a champion in the hearts of so many. Butterfly kisses to you, big fella!

####
May the sun shine bright on that old Kentucky Home today. And may all horses go wire to wire safely and soundly.

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Alex, Mike Rea and all FOB's in Kentucky, have a great time!

####
Continued healing LindaH.

####
Best of Luck Michael and Round Pond!

To everyone, hope you enjoy this magnificent day at the races!!!!!!

Thanks, Linnie...I've always thought it was Redaspen but often see her called Red Aspen.

Anita...what happened to Gifted Colors?

From The Middle Of This Great Country This Half Wore Out Cowboy Wants To Wish All Of Barbaro's Angels A Very Happy And Safe Weekend. I Hope All That Are Involved In the Races This Weekend Have A Safe Run.

Our Hero Barbaro, You Have A Great Weekend And Have Some Dreams About Belly Deep Sweet Grass, All The Carrots And Apples You Would Ever Want And A Few Stud Muffins To Keep You Growing That Hoof And Getting Stronger. I Know You Are In Everyone's Thoughts On This Day.

God Bless Our Troops And Please Bring Them Home Safe To Their Families. Because Of Them We Are Able To Have This Weekend Where We Can Go To The Horse Races, Watch Our Favorite College Play Football And All Of The Other Things We In This Great Land I Believe Take For Granted.

Hola Barbaro Nation,

Dear FOB's I have been with family for a week and had no time for regular TWR updates. I had terrible withdrawals.

I see no update on our Champ, I am assuming that it's because Alex is at the cup right? Knowing Barbaro he is leaning back, TV on handicapping the race.

I hope you all are well,how are Linda H. Erin and Rachel?

I am getting ready for the cup: blinkers, cocktails, etc. IO cannot tell you all who I am rooting for because I will be killed.

May every horse run a safe race and return home healthy.

Good morning, Barbaro. This is BC day, yet one horse (you) means more to me than all of the races we will witness today.

Have a good day.

Diane

Jo (UK) - Yesterday Ruthie R posted this:

I'm not a regular "poster" on the site, but I do read almost every day. Now, I'm asking that you guys please say a prayer, light a candle, cross your fingers...whatever...for my mare, Gifted Colors (Gift). At present she is in a vet clinic in Aiken, SC and will undergo scoping today to see if she has ulcers. After sustaining an injury to her sesamoid ligment the end of April, she's been on stall rest/confinement to small paddock for the past 6 months. All was going ok until August, when she colicked, and then colicked again in Sept. and just last weekend. The vets can't figure out what is wrong. They've thought impaction, but most times she is extremely distended and has displaced a couple of times. She's pulled through with the help of fluid therapy and drugs to move her gut but this last time, I picked her up on Tuesday and by the next morning, she was lying down, in pain again. One vet is afraid that her cecum isn't working as it should, that the pacemakers are out of whack, which wouldn't be a good thing. I've changed her hay, I make "soup" out of her grain, I've given her ulcer medicine for the past month. Wednesday was the first time she's been able to go out to her field in all this time. We'd hoped to get her back into some canter work first but because of all the colics, we've only progressed to the trot. However, it has become apparent that her digestive system is more important than her foot right now, so I let her out for a few hours, hoping that the movement/grazing would help. But it was later that day that she started being painful. This time, it didn't go into a full blown colic like the times before so I'm hoping it was ulcers and not cecum issues. Anyway, please keep her in your thoughts today and over the weekend as the vets try to figure out what is going on with her. Thank you!

Posted by: Ruthie R at November 3, 2006 10:35 AM

In a later post Ruthie R said she was headed to the vet's. So now I'm worrying about what the outcome was of that. Will be adding Gifted Colors to my vigil tonight but I was wondering...

Cngratulations Tim Woolley and RedAspen on a very impressive win. Looking mighty good!!!!!!

####
Linnie,
Whether you keep him in the box or not is up to you. Many collectors keep the horse in the box for monetary value. It is no longer pristine once out of the box. I buy Breyers only because of the particular horse. So my Secretariat is free to graze in his paddock in my stepback cupboard, as is Ruffian, Seabiscuit and now Barbaro. Seabiscuit has the same type of neat box. In the box you just can't see how really beautiful they are and they look more like a toy. That's just how I feel. Mine are free and look like they enjoy it.

In the end, it is how you feel that matters most, Linnie.

Good morning Barbaro and all FOBs

I'm just getting up to date on all of the posts I've read - but in response to that piece of uneducated, ignorant literary crap tribune article I have to respond.

First, how sad you felt the use of the words "nag", "out to pasture" and "eat a huge hunk of nelly" would be clever. You're so misguided I can't believe you even write for a living, much less find someone stupid enough to publish the crap you are writing.

Second, the use of the word "accusations" only shows that you know nothing of what you speak (or write). Read a newspaper - we don't make accusations - we respond to facts. So, 42 horses crammed into a double decker trailer getting into an accident doesn't mean "facts" to you. Maybe you were off that day - at a luncheon for the well, if it's there on may plate I might as well eat it society. The only thing larger than your ignorance seems to be your lack of humanity.

Third, don't flatter yourself or those europeans that like a "big ole plate of nelly" once in a while. We don't care what you "beings" eat - we just want to save American horses from sale, theft, cruelty and inhumane, unnecessary death. Let them do whatever they like with THEIR horses. We're trying to protect ours,

Fourth, what's next for you . . . humans come into this world as well as leave it without the ability to "fend for themselves". So will you now spend your days begging senators to support the idea that we simply kill our babies and our elderly since they can't take care of themselves?

Fifth, I, for one would like for you to experience first hand how slaughter is performed (meaning of course it would happen to you- not that you watch). That's one slaughterhouse video I WOULD watch. Just think of it, YOU would be shot in the head with the "bolt gun" once, just as you wrote. Then, have your throat slit, be strung up by one leg, decapitated and dismembered. Then you could fully appreciate having your "meat" prepared by Jean-Claude and eaten by Pierre.

Sixth, I'm sure you could have been more inhumane, uneducated, and ignorant in your article - I'm just not sure how.

Seventh, WATCH a horse slaugher video pal - that bolt gun is used at least 2 to 3 times and STILL some horses do not die before the slaughter.

Eighth, we have helpless, homeless, neglected, starving people in America too. Perhaps your next feature article willl be on how we should steal them, sell them for money to a slaughterhouse and add them to foreigh menus as well? You probably would enjoy a big juicy "hunk of homeless Billy" once in a while huh?

Ninth, shut up, just shut up. You are an ignorant, evil, malicious excuse for a human being. HOW DARE YOU JUDGE US - THOSE FIGHTING FOR THE WELFARE OF ANIMALS. Ever heard the word "humanity"? I know it's a lot of syllables and all, but you really should look that one up because if you think that the slaughter of horses is humane you're truly one of the most clueless people I've ever encountered. You are SERIOUSLY misguided.

Tenth - be careful - they steal, kill, dismember and eat jackasses too. YOU could be next on the menu. Talk about poetic justice. Shame on you, Shame on all of you,

####
Well said Designgirl7. That's pretty straight forward stuff.

I hope your gram is resting comfortably and peacefully. I also hope you can catch a few of the races today to sort of unwind a little. Your gram is in my prayers.

####
I am watching Electric Horseman with Robert Redford. What a nice way to start BC Day!!!

Designgirl7 - Right on! Someone has to say it...

Sorry guys, but the use of the words "can't fend for themselves", and "elderly" just really irritated me. Not just because of my Gram's final fight, but because that's just ignorant,

####
Linnie,
Whether you keep him in the box or not is up to you. Many collectors keep the horse in the box for monetary value. It is no longer pristine once out of the box. I buy Breyers only because of the particular horse. So my Secretariat is free to graze in his paddock in my stepback cupboard, as is Ruffian, Seabiscuit and now Barbaro. Seabiscuit has the same type of neat box. In the box you just can't see how really beautiful they are and they look more like a toy. That's just how I feel. Mine are free and look like they enjoy it.

In the end, it is how you feel that matters most, Linnie.

Posted by: Rosemary in NE OHIO at November 4, 2006 3:07 PM
################################################

THANK YOU, ROSEMARY ... that's EXACTLY how I feel too and I didn't buy him to sell him to anyone else ever! So that 'pristene' condition means squat to me! LOL

I guess that since I am a free spirit who can't be 'fenced in', I don't like to see anyone else restricted or constrained either, so Bobby will be set free and I will keep the impressive packaging someplace else.

I have a gorgeous statue of Secretariat that I bought several years ago but that was never in a box except for shipping purposes. He is a large statue mounted on a cherrywood base with bronze plaque ... most impressive and gorgeous. And I want Barbaro to look the same in his place of honor ...

SO ... Out of the Box he will come right now!!!

A big Congrats to Tim and RedAspen. What a beautiful girl she is.

((((Bobby)))) Have a wonderful day Big B. Thinking of you always Champ. How I wish you were at the BC "Kicking Ass and Taking Names"...:)

(((Alex))) I hope you are having the time of your life.

Saw up above that there's speculation that Bernardini has been scratched. I doubt it - I would have seen it on thoroughbredchampions.

I think it's just somebody pulling our collective chain.

Jake

Just got a notice that Jenny's on the radio worked out this morning. So I guess she is still ok!!!

####
Ruthie may Gifted Colors have a full recovery soon. Warm hugs from this cold FOB

Designgirl7,

Very well said, you go girl!! I didn't realize there were SO many idiots out there.
cindy a

#### Marky - where do you live?

Congrats to Tim and Redaspen! Wow, she is really red, isn't she? A beauty.

Prayers for Maizie, Felix and all FOB animals with fur, feathers or fins.

Prayers for Dora, Rachel, Designgirl's gram, Linda H., and all FOBs who need hugs and healing.

Bobby, your parents will be there to visit you today with love in their hearts for the great champion you are. Grow that hoof, heal that toe, splash in your bath, and know that our prayers and love are with you each and every day, especially on this big race day.

####
Jo, I'm really going to be thinking of you when I get to see George up close. Isn't this exciting???

Gotta go get some food ready--the countdown starts! Safe trips to all the horses and riders today...

####
Sally,

Thank you for the comment on Jenny's on the radio. I have been wondering about her for months!

####
Designgirl7,

Well said! Thanks! I needed that.

Thanks, Anita...I often miss stuff during the week because I don't have the time to read everything and tend to skim through. I hope we hear some good news about Gifted Colors today from Ruthie.

Jane...I feel like a nervous parent with my George over there! lol

Jo
We'll take good care of him!!!...:)
Go George!!!!!

#### Jo (UK) - I know, the same happens to me. Sometimes I have absolutely no time to read the posts, and then some days I can read each and every one of them. So I have no complaint when someone reposts a post.

#####
LINNIE & ROSEMARY - I'm totally with you - my Barbaro and Smarty Jones are nickering at each other on top of my buffet - don't fence them in!

HEY EVERYONE..AT THE BREEDER'S CUP

GLORIA, ALEX, LAURIE AND ALL..HAVE A GREAT DAY..HEAR IT IS SUNNY, NO WIND, AND IN THE 50's latest update from Gloria one of the Alex Brown Tribute Team members...

Have a great day and may the horses running in the races stay safe.

Debra in Ohio

Trying to catch up on all the posts after i went to bed. Bonnie - no problemo - I didn't even consider that!

IT's the Breeders Cup! Woo Hooo!

Alex, have fun! We will be looking for you!!!!!!!!!

Bobby, King of my heart, don't you worry about a thing! You enjoy your bath and the love and adoration of your wonderful nurses! It is a beautiful crips sunny fall day so get outside and enjoy! I love you!

GOOD NEWS!!!

This notice is to inform you that one or more of your horses has worked out.

Jennys On Radio
Your Comment: recovered from breakdown

Date: November 4, 2006
Track: AQUEDUCT
Distance: Three Furlongs
Time: 37:22 Breezing
Track Condition: Fast
Surface: Dirt
Rank: 4/6

Great to see she's still doing well! :-)

ALL,

BTW, I KNOW we get too many candles groups going sometimes. I can't keep up with them. But I did start a group for "Gift" if you want to stop in and light a candle. Thanks. You are all amazing.

Love to all.

#####
DESIGNGIRL7 - I know you've going through tough times with your beloved Gram, but GIRL, YOU JUST ROCK!!!!!

Nancy in CT - how is Princess Mazie doing today?

There is a horse running at Hollywood Park today called Scoonerwharfbardog - must be connected to Key West because there is a bar here called Schooner Wharf and is one of the few bars that dogs are allowed - there are always dogs in there - just thought it was funny and wanted to share!!!

###
Anita, I live in Atlata,
I know that it is not really cold here, but I grew up in Florida and anything under 45 feels like the arctic circle to me, ain't it sad? It is in the high 40's now

####
Linda H,

I have lit three candles for Barbaro, Foggy, S1915, MOEQ, Dr R., and Jacks for you.

I am hoping you will soon be home and comfy.

Jo - I am so glad Jennys On The Radio is doing so well!!!!!!!!!! YEAH!

I must say HELLO LINDA H ... DEAR FRIEND! ARE YOU ALL SET TO WATCH THE BREEDERS CUP?

I'm sure they've given you a very special TV to watch the races today! My heart, healing thoughts, friendship and love are with you as always and hope that this day brings you one step farther from discomfort and one giant leap closer to healing and recovery!! Love you Girl!!
##################################################

TO EVERYONE AT CHURCHILL, INCLUDING MY GOOD FRIEND, DEBBIE B IN MIAMI .... HAVE A BLAST!! I AM THERE IN SPIRIT WITH YOU AND ENJOYING IT ALL FROM MY LIVING ROOM ... CAN'T WAIT FOR THIS MONUMENTAL DAY TO BEGIN!!!
##################################################

TO DESIGNGIRL7 ... Thoughts and Prayers for you and Gram all the way ...
###############################################

FOR ROSEMARY AND NANCY in CT ...

OK, Here's what I did "for now" with Breyer Barbaro ... I took him out of his box but I love the artistic, colorful backdrop against Churchill Downs and his name blazing above his head. So I had to figure out a way to keep that while still freeing "The Big Boy."

So I removed all of the wiry thingys that kept him literally tied down ...and I angled his body so that he is three dimensional against the backdrop with the upper half of his body turned outward instead of flat agains the back of the artwork. Then, just for safety, I took one of the little black thingys and just loosely put it through two of the little holes on the very bottom around one of his ankles ... just so he wouldn't fall out or down. You can't even see it and all of his other legs are loose, free and turned outward and away from the backdrop. Actually it looks very cool and three dimensional like he's coming at you!!

Thanks again for your advice! Now he's not caged in at all, but he's still running in The Derby to the Finish Line and the Winner's Circle!!!

Again cogratulations to Tim and Redaspen! She is gorgeous!

Reminder - Vigil for Bobby tonight at 7 pm EST

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

Magnificent Steed! Another day closer. We hold the vision of your wholeness - you are perfect and complete - in vibrant good health.

The Light of God surrounds you
The Love of God enfolds you
The Power of God Protects you
The Presence of God watches over you
Wherever you are Bobby, God IS.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us…” Romans 8:38, 39

For the love of who you are
For the love of your spirit...

God Bless The Fog

I love you Fog

Love, Light and Protection for All The Bearers of The Light

When we pray for Barbaro, and focus on his physical healing, I humbly ask you to include prayers for his peace of mind and continued courage. His is a difficult path.

Thank you God, that right and perfect decisions are made by Barbaro, and for Barbaro.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

No Laura didn't say he was scratched!! I read it from someone else's post on here!!
Here are the scratches at Churchill today!!



Race Horse Scratch Reason


1 Humorous Gal Trainer

1 Indian Flare Trainer

1 Joint Effort Trainer

1 Trippi Street Trainer

2 Latent Heat Trainer

2 Wiggins Trainer




That's from Equibase


jock4hire (lj)

Lord God, wrap S1915 in Divine Love and Divine Order. Open the heart of every member of the Senate to clearly hear the voice of the horse, and feel the Magnificent Spirit of the horse. Compel each member to immediately move S1915 to the floor in a right and perfect way, and then vote with their hearts and their conscience for the highest good of all.

Love, Light and Protection for The Boys (always)

God Bless and Protect Us and All of The Horses

###
Sorry for being a pest is Linda H in the hospital, did she have her surgery?

##Barb - I can't find the post, but I believe someone started a group for Gift yesterday and called it COLOR - there are 16 candles there.

Thank you for always letting us know when Bobby's candles are low!

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby and All The Horses

####
Marky,

Yes, Linda had her surgery and is doing great! She didn't even go to ICU.

#### Marky - LOL, I was just wondering, thought you might be somewhere in Minnesota, and that your weather was heading here. We're getting in the high 20's at night, 40's daytime here in Massachusetts, which to me is pretty cold, even though it will get much colder soon!

#### Sally in Key West - love that name, Scoonerwharfbardog, LOL. Will have to have a drink at the Schooner Wharf when I visit Key West, which I plan to someday. Have to see those feral roosters, hens and chicks someday, you know, LOL. (You wouldn't think I was raised on a farm, would you? But I always get such a kick out of those animals outwitting us humans!)

Marky - She did, and she was feisty afterwards, according to Cheryl.

Marky
I don't know where everyone went...did someone yell "fire"...lol

Yes to your first question and yes to your second ....details will have to come from someone else though as I don't have the up-to-date info on her.

Good day Barbaro and Fans! BIG day for racing....will have all the horses and riders in my prayers as I watch.
Jo, thanks for keeping us up to date on ALL the racing!
Go Barbaro, keep growing that hoof, one day at time!
Hope it's a beautiful day for all.

Nancy in Va Beach :)

A high five to Designgirl, and best wishes to your Gram.

Best wishes and prayers for all horses and horsepeople today. May all come home safe.

I think I'm pulling for George Washington because of the Jackson connection and the name, but I worry about the dirt for him , running and hitting in his face. You can't call a Jackson bred horse a foreigner, epecially with his name !
ANd most of my ancestors came from England .

Linda H., I thinking of you, and all that are sick or need prayers, Star and others, I'm praying.

Barbaro, the giant shadow you cast is over the race track and continues to spread over all of America. God bless you. So many will think of you this day and know if you were there, there would be no doubt. It would be AND HERE COMES BARBARO, THE UNDEFEATED BARBARO, IN A SUBLIME PERFORMANCE...
Much love to you through the tears in my eyes I wish you a wonderful day, and may you not know they are running. You just enjoy all your comforts and pears, etc. and a soapy fun bath.

####
Linnie,
What you did is perfect. I did something similar with Seabiscuit. The three dimensional quality you created adds to the horse's personality. The plastic was what held him captive. Now he is free to be magnificent Barbaro !!! I knew you would do what was best for the big boss horse!!

Enjoy the races today!!!!

#####
YAAAYY for Linda H. She is a TRUE FOB. Linda we are all pulling for you and be like the Big Boss, Nip if they annoy you. I hope you are able to watch the race.

Anita I can only say that people like me should never mention the word "cold". I was once in Maine and I do not remeber the temperature, but I asked someone "is this normal"? they politely said yes......I could see them thinking "stupid Florida girl".....LOL

#########

Everyone Please..... I'm stuck at work,Could you please do your regular race day banter so I can follow along....Please.

DesignGirl7:
You rock, girl. I am proud of you! I'm the guy from Minnesota and as I posted this ^%%$$%%yesterday I also explained I do not read that paper for this exact reason. My son called me and told me of the article. A FOB e-mailed this a.m. and said she heard from the Star Tribune they would only print articles submitted by Mn. residents. Well, I have e-mailed them 4 times and have only recieved that standard form blah,
blah garbage. I have requested from the Tribune that I submit an article with the facts. And I will stay on them. I have a contact name and I will attempt to reach her Monday morning. I am going to demand equal time. If their policy is to publish articles from Mn. residents only I will use that but I will also use as leverage the tremendous displeasure this article has caused nationwide. And I also will demand that this article be signed by "Fans Of Barbaro!" Together we will win these battles and the horses will be safe. I ask all FOB's to paste, paste that paper! This is an opportunity to get positive exposure in mainstream media!
Daryl
www.tribune.com/feedback

Continued prayers for Barbaro for a complete recovery of healed bones and a grown hoof and to my Foggy, your life was way too short but you are not forgotten. Foggy's job today is to act as a guaridan angel and being all the BC horses back to their barns safe and sound.
Prayers to all of those that need them both 2 legged and 4 legged.
Hope everyone enjoys the races today!

#### #### Marky, Marky - I lived in Florida for 3 years and thought it was heaven, and that the Florida people were the SMARTEST people in the USA (THEY knew where to live!). Am forced by circumstances to live in MA now, but have my eye on FL.

I just talked to Linda H. and she felt that she had over done it yesterday and was paying the price today. I told her to just stay in bed and watch the Breeders Cup all day and rest. Linda mentioned getting our group flowers and that they had a big carrot in the middle. She was laughing as she told me that part. Of course, she asked for the latest news on the big guy. If Lina is feeling better tomorrow, both Cherly J. and I are planning to vist.

BTW - I put my Breeder's Cup picks, such as they are, on my blog.

Is anybody else as nervous and excited as I am?

Yes, Linda H - just enjoy the Breeder's Cup. Sounds like you're doing well, though, if you're already "overdoing it".

Good morning sweet prince. Waiting for the three best words in the world.

Congrats Tim!! She is a beauty!!

Prayers to all that are racing, may god watch over you and keep you safe.

BLB!!

Karen - TN

It's all started over here on Racing World! I'm so excited! :-)

FOB'S,
ENJOY THE BREEDER'S CUP RACES TODAY! BUT, JUST
REMEMBER- THEY ARE ALL RUNNING FOR SECOND BEST IN
THE CLASSIC. BARBARO, I LOVE YOU BIG GUY AND KNOW
THAT OUR HEARTS AND OUR MINDS ARE WITH YOU TODAY.
YOU ARE TRULY A CHAMPION AMONG CHAMPIONS AND THE
BEST OF THE BEST! HAVE A NICE BATH AND ENJOY YOUR
TIME OUTSIDE. WHO ARE YOU ROOTING FOR, BOBBY? I'M
SURE HE'LL WIN WITH YOU BEHIND HIM! COULD IT BE
THE JACKSON'S GEORGE? WE WILL SEE. JUST HOPE ALL
FINISH WITHOUT INJURY. LOVE MY BREYER FIGURE OF
BARBARO! I FOR ONE AM KEEPING HIM IN THE BOX- IT'S
MORE VALUABLE THAT WAY.FOB'S, NOTICE WHAT IS ON HIS BELLY? HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL, ESPECIALLY YOU
BIG GUY!
JAN OF WOR.,NOV.4,2006,11:30AM

ALEX
Tim and all, congratulations to Redaspen, what a beautiful girl she is! Alex, have a great time at the Breeders' Cup and please come back and fill us in on all the "inside info".

Michael and The Jacksons
I especially pray for safe successful races for your horses today. And I pray for safety for all horses and jockeys today. Though, I do hope Lava Man, with his tongue flopping, wins!

Bobby
I hope you get some visitors today, I imagine everyone is occupied with all the important races. But I hope you know you are #1 in all their hearts. I feel a little sad thinking this could have been another big day for you, but your strength, will, and heart are in a much more important race right now, and you're winning! Sounds like it's cold up there, so stay safe and warm, especially when you go outside. I pray God will complete the healing and fusing of your bones, grow your hoof, protect your other three hooves, keep you from infection, and keep you comfy and happy. You are a magnificent horse and loved by sooooo many.

Just seen Bernardini having his bath, and his first canter on the track, Lava Man, and George really does look gorgeous!!! :-)

There is a 20 year old horse running at Aqueduct in the first race

Never mind - they were pulling my leg!

####
SusanO I would love to race banter for ya, have HRTV on but nothing is happening....I CAN tell ya that most of the commentators are saying Bernadini will win.....besides you know I am a total amateur. I bet the experts will come on later and call it for you.

Anita, Thank you for saying Floridians are smart. We are also spoiled by that warm weather. Only problem those Hurricanes. I have been in GA 5 months now and I love it.

Bobby,

We have you in Spirit, winning the Breeder's Cup "Classic", but you are winning a race beyond mere Classic, it is Historic!

I hear the mention of 'Barbaro' sends chills up and down Bernardini's spine!...boy, I don't even wanna think about that Barbaro dude *looking me in the eye*! Yikes! I hate that phrase, and all these sportswriters use it...shudder shudder!

Love you, Bobby. Ya big lug!

#######
Marky.....Thank you!

Looks like Lava Man is the lucky number 8 in the Classic!

####
J.Carson: nervous and excited Nelly here.....mmm, maybe I'm not cold just nervous

Precious Barbaro: Praying for another comfortable day today and praying that our Heavenly Father will continue to fill your spirit with peace and calm as you continue on your road to recovery.
Father, thank you for the "Miracle of Barbaro"

Lost in the Fog: My Forever Horse...watch over your "horsy" friends as the race today. Bring them home safely. Miss you and love you even more.
Father, thank you for "The Fog".

Barbaro Team: May you all have a beautiful day today as we watch the races. Our hearts will be with our Precious Barbaro whose "greatness" will be felt by everyone that will be watching these magnificent creations that we are fighting so hard to save. The Barbaro Effect moves on.

Although today's races are classified as the BC (Breeder's Cup), in my little world the BC will be known as "BARBARO'S CLASSIC"......

Prayers for all FOB and their "furry families" that are in need of prayer...may our Father fill all of you with positive healing and restored health.

"Please Pray for the Horses"

God Bless you and yours.

Jeanette Cavalier

Jo from UK,

I read that George is from Tipperary, Ireland. So, I'm going to have to back him as my Grandfather was from Tipperary. Seems there are some nice TB farms in Tipperary, nice grazing no doubt. Ever been to Ireland? I want to go and visit my Grandfather's town near Nenagh, Tip.

I just talked to Linda H. and she felt that she had over done it yesterday and was paying the price today. I told her to just stay in bed and watch the Breeders Cup all day and rest. Linda mentioned getting our group flowers and that they had a big carrot in the middle. She was laughing as she told me that part. Of course, she asked for the latest news on the big guy. If Lina is feeling better tomorrow, both Cherly J. and I are planning to vist.

Posted by: Barb D. at November 4, 2006 4:22 PM

##############################################

LINDA H ... TODAY ALL YOU CAN DO IS "GRAZE" ... NO TROTTING, CANTORING, BREEZING OR GALLOPING IS ALLOWED!!!!!

Today is your day to graze and WATCH The Breeders Cup NOT run in it, OK???? "Be LIKE Barbaro" ... you can't BE Barbaro!!!! But you are still THE PRESENCE OF GREATNESS TO ALL OF US!!!!

Congratulations to Graham Motion...a nice win at Delaware for Creve Coeur! :-)

##############
Ruthie R - Prayers and healing thoughts for Gift. Last saturday my mare Star injured her tendons, supensory ligament and possibly a fracture to her sesimod in her right hind. Good work getting Gift thru to rehab. Gift has come this far, hopefully the vets can find and cure the stomach issue.
Ruthie would you please email me @ cawpos@gmail.com.

Prayers to all that are sick or in need.

Cheryl in PA

Good morning, Champ:
Do we wish you were there? Absolutely! But you are with us, and that's the important thing. Because of you so much good has happened. We all owe you so much!
May everyone, horses and jockeys, have safe trips!
Daryl

Bonnie...I've never been to Ireland but I know it's very beautiful and produces some brilliant horses! :-)

GO GEORGE!!!!

Barbaro,
Thank our beautiful Lord for ACN. Have a nice day Bobby, keep warm. I am off to Hollywood Park for the Breeders' Cup. Good luck to all the precious horses and jockeys. Go Lava Man! May the Lord keep the horses safe and jockeys safe. Have a good day everyone. God Bless to All who care for Barbaro. Foggy we didn't forget about you. You will always be in our hearts. Prayers and thoughts for all who are in need.

Hay all, I am so glad I have no eye makeup on. Is anyone out there crying beside me watching the Breeders Cup? Am I just silly and too hormonal? All I can think of is Bobby.

Barb D
Thanks for the update on Linda H. I hope she gets plenty rest and feels better today.

Does anyone have a suggestion for someone who does not have the racing channels on tv. Is there a website that might have clips, re-runs of the BC today? Thanks.

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO GEORGIE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jeanette Cavalier

Nice to see you back, I have missed your postings.

Everyone... Don't forget to vote for Barbaro!!!
I have been going back to vote a couple times a day soooo vote often. Voting ends Nov. 29th.

VOTEforBARBARO

I guess its when they talk about "The Best" being there that chokes me up. Damn it, I know THE BEST is in a beautiful small town in Pennsylvania called Kennet Square.

###
Chris tears here early on too. Now I just think of how amazing his recovery is. I KNOW that he is the triple crown winner. If they mention or show him I think we'll be bawling together.

Thank you, God, for another comfortable night for OUR Champion, Barbaro. Please continue to heal him.

Dear Sweet Barbaro, I am watching the Breeder's Cup, but like all of your friends here, I am thinking of you. I am also thinking of my visit to Churchill Downs in September and having my picture taken with YOUR statue there. You are the champion of champions, Barbaro. And we are here to support you for the duration. I love you, Sweet Boy!

Congratulations to Tim and Redaspen!

Dear God, please keep all horses and jockeys safe today.

Have a great Breeder's Cup day, Team Barbaro!

Love,
Sue
xoxox

Bonnie...try Churchill's site. They might have live streaming.

Barbaro,
Think of you every day but especially today...You are the greatsest of champions, you have proven it a hundred times, on the track and off. I am praying for you always and for all the other beautiful racers. May today's racing be safe for everyone. Thank you for all you have given us and all you have taught us. You have helped many others with your courage and stregth. God bless!

YAY for Bobby!!!!!! :-D
I'm thinking of you, sweetie!

Alex...I'm so envious that you're actually there! I'll look out for you! lol

Jo,
Thanks, I'll go over there and try it!

###
Mornin' Nation

I've got the BC on. So exciting!!!!
Having my MHR garage sale right now so I can only come in a peak.
Everybody have a great day watching all these beauties & safe races for all.

Fan Of Barbaro

Morning Handsome Prince!!! Morning all FOB's. Congrats Tim. Alex, enjoy!!

Everyone have a happy and safe Breeders Cup. Barbaro, we will all be thinking of you.

Good Morning Champ! FOB's! Tim congratulations, how nice!

And we're off!

They're loading in the gate!

JO, Do UK horses have to go in a gate there?
They are having a little trouble here with the gate I hope she doesn't get hurt

Dearest Barbaro
Our thoughts are always with you our champion of champions.

Safe day for all the horses

We Love You So Dear Sweet Barbaro

Her Majesty won't go in. She's scared.

On with the blindfold and she's in.

The first race is about to run, and good luck to all.
The greatest champion is having a bath and some carrots today !
Dreaming of Anna , how beautiful she is!

The first race is about to run, and good luck to all.
The greatest champion is having a bath and some carrots today !
Dreaming of Anna , how beautiful she is!

Dreaming of Anna won, Octave came second!

#####
Alex - I know you day will be great, wish we were all with you!!

Congratulations Tim on your win with Redaspen, what a beautiful picture.

Just have to do a few quotes for Barbaro. . .

Well, NewsNet5.com (posted articles from yesterday) headlines "As the Breeders Cup approaches Bernardini still in Barbaro's shadow". Barbaro, the 3 year old colt was unbeaten in five races, when he overpowered the Derby field and won by 6 1/2 lengths - the largest winning margin in 60 years. Then the Bernardini-Barbaro connection was sealed by the Preakness. It could have been a great rivalry, like Affirmed and Alydar. But, E. Parado said "that will have to be a fantasy race, in the memories of all fans".

However, today Edgar Prado (Barbaro's jockey for the Kentucky Derby ) will be aboard Premium Top a 30-1 long shot.

Bernardini is owned by Sheik Mohammed, the ruler of Dubai.

Prayers for a safe race and may God watch over it.

Another good night for Barbaro, his fans, the staff at NBC, the owners, his jockey and trainer. When Barbaro is happy we are all happy.

Love and Prayers for all,

Karen M. Dallas, Texas

It's not very lady like to work with your tongue hanging out. LOL Congrats to Dreaming of Anna and her connections. She ran a beautiful race!

ACN!!! Way to go Barbaro!!! LOVE YOU SWEET PRINCE!!

Karen - TN

What a beautiful filly Anna is!

Ok I am here!!!

I posted the picks in the Breeders Cup Challenge thread... also emailed

PICKS

I'm off to chat in chat! :-)

Woo finally I can relax and enjoy.... Octave was awesome... But Dreaming of Anna really dug in ..that was awesome!!!

You would think they would give everyone the day off tomorrow since Bernardini is running late tonight for us the races end at 2:45 a.m., so my husband went to sleep because he has to work tomorrow.

Wrong Sheikh for us.

WINNINGS: Just pulled this off the NTRA site. Our dear Bobby is still #2 in winnings, after spending the last 6 months in his stall at NBC... this will change later today, but not how much we LOVE you, Barbaro. You are #1 in my heart.

1 Lava Man 7 7 0 0 $2,770,000

2 Barbaro 5 4 0 0 $2,203,200

3 Bernardini 7 6 0 0 $2,060,480

4 Bluegrass Cat 7 2 4 0 $1,547,500

5 Fleet Indian 6 6 0 0 $1,473,720

6 Lawyer Ron 7 5 1 0 $1,340,800

7 Showing Up 8 6 0 1 $1,310,500 V-

8 English Channel 6 4 0 0 $1,207,937

9 Wait a While 8 5 1 2 $1,114,437

10 Collier Hill 1 1 0 0 $1,066,560

####
Designgirl7

Haven't read the article but from your message I got the idea of the article.
So thank you and add my name to the thoughts as well.

Safety to all during the race!!!

Karen M. Dallas, Texas

Octave did good and Garrett Gomez was very happy with her :-)
I'll keep popping back here, but if I disappear for a while it's cos I'm rabbiting in chat! lol

Hello Barbaro,

I hope you're having a great day and have a variety of treats in front of you. I love you. XXOO

Good morning, Starshine! ACN--the words I wanted to hear, especially today. Enjoy your "bafth" today, Big Horse. Will you watch the races today? They're going to talk about you a lot, because everyone misses you.

Bobby, I am still leaning towards Lava Man (I think it was his Rasta mane that put him over the top for me) but mostly I just want all the horses and jocks to come home safely today.

KAREN GARDNER, loved your post!!

ED from NEBRASKA--hey, welcome! I'm a Husker by birth and raising myself. GO BIG RED! What part of the state are you from, if I may ask?

NANCY in CT: Yes, our senior babies need to stick together. I keep thinking of BDude, who recently turned 19. He was very sick but got well. Paws and toes crossed that the Barbaro Effect will help our kitties, and Designgirl's Gram, and GIfted Colors, and Cheryl's Star, and all the other animals.

LINDA H, take care of yourself! Remember to nip your doctor and family if they don't bring you treats and spoil you. NO rearing or bucking today, but perhaps a little boinging might be in order!

#####
BonnieM
I have BC on ESPN

Note to Chris B:

Not to worry! It's not silly, and you're not alone. I'm watching the Breeder's Cup through teary eyes as well!

Take care!!

Sue
xoxoxo

TEARS ANONYMOUS here too!

From the opening commentary and footage, I was choked up and crying before anything even happened.

I got VERY VERY NERVOUS for "Her Majesty" and was yelling "No, No, No" when they wanted to force her into the gate. I kept thinking she was going to be hurt and then when I saw them blindfolding her I wanted to KILL all of these people! How CRUEL IS THAT? Blindfolding her and THEN spinning her around to disorient her. She was dizzy! And then she had to stay in the gate very annoyed and upset until the other horses were loaded. No wonder she came in next to last.

Poor Baby!

Congratulations to Barclay Tagg and Blue Sky God for a win at Aqueduct!

Linnie...I was really nervous for her too!

Judy Walker in WA: Thank you for your kind words. They truly fill me with so much happiness for all the beautiful people I have met thur our Precious Barbaro. I was without a computer for 3 weeks.....that was a "nightmare" that I'm still trying to overcome by catching up with all the posts. So much is happening but our Barbaro is continuing to lead all of us on a "ride of a lifetime" as we continue to be in awe of this magnificent creation that our Father has brought to us. May God bless you and yours on this beautiful day.

Chris Byers: I have been crying "buckets of tears" at the mention of our Precious Barbaro....who would have thought that I would be sitting here watching and recording horse races (with squinted eyes most of the time). My family and friends are just so amazed with me on my knowledge now of horses, horse racing, rescue farms, and sadly--horse slaughter. I talk more with my "Barbaro Family" than I do to anyone else. All of this is due to the "magnificent presence" of our Preciuos Barbaro.

Thank you Father, for giving me the opportunity to be living at this time to see the "Miracle of Barbaro" and all of the difference he has made in this world. I pray Father, that it is Your will that Barbaro will be with us for years to come.

"Please Pray for the Horses"

Jeanette Cavalier

##################
Don't be nervous.......anyone in racing....knows.I Love my bud ................Gary and now Steve is a trainr????????????

oh my street sense was on fire

Redaspen is such a beautiful and graceful horse, what a prized picture, Michael, Tim and Alex must be so proud of her, and she is wearing Barbaro's lucky number 8, what a nice picture.

Barbaro, hoping you have a fun filled bath day today and grooming and that you get pampered today.
Has anyone found out what is going to happen to the Netherland horses, are they going back to their owner or are they going to a rescue, just wondering, I know alot of them were sick from being out and exposed to the water and wind.
mary mi

ONLINE HORSE SLAUGHTER BAN POLL CURRENT RESULTS--PLEASE VOTE

www.ksdk.com
bottom right of home page

Should the United States have laws banning the slaughter of horses?
Yes 2084 Votes
No 1107 Votes
I don't know 356 Votes

Total Votes Cast: 3547

I'm happy for Calvin Borel, he's a nice guy, loves horses and deserves some good things coming his way.

WHAT A RUN BY STRAIGHT SENSE! HE JUST KEPT PULLING AWAY FROM THE FIELD ...

REMINDED ME OF SECRETARIAT'S BELMONT RUN!

PRINCIPLE SECRET JUST FIZZLED OUT!!!

Linnie,
That poor baby was exhausted by the time the gate opened. I'm just glad she wasn't hurt. I always worry about a flip in the gate.

Street Sense was awesome!

AM I THE ONLY ONE GETTING ANNOYED with talk of college football instead of horses? (and I'm a football fan...but this is the HORSES' day!)

Alex, Thanks for remembering us with all the excitement going on there! I'm glad you are having fun!!

ALL IS WELL WITH BIG B! Great news!

Congratulations to Tim and Redaspen!

Godspeed to all the horses and jockeys running today. May you all reach the wire safely.

Well today is bittersweet, Barbaro. Although I'll be watching the Breeder's Cup, it most definitely will be with a sad heart as you can not be there. Although I know you would have been victorious today, just as you were in all of your races, the race you are currently running is the most important one of all, and I have no doubt that you will once again emerge the victor. You are a great champion, and you continue to prove that each and every day. As it has been said, "Never doubt the heart of a champion." I have never doubted yours, sweet boy.

You are always in my thoughts and prayers. Have another comfortable day, filled with healing and peace, and know that you are in the hearts and minds of so many people today. I love you Barbaro.

The miracle continues...

Nancy, I'm with ya, very annoying!

Bernardi..............you go guy.

Susan, just voted on www.ksdk.com from my home computer. I voted yesterday at work. it will only let you vote one time from what ever computer you are on.

VOTE ALL PLEASE!

I loved when the announcer said" Street Sense rocks!"

Linnie,
That poor baby was exhausted by the time the gate opened. I'm just glad she wasn't hurt. I always worry about a flip in the gate.

Posted by: cindy a at November 4, 2006 6:20 PM

I KNOW Cindy ... she was all spent and disoriented. I do NOT like putting on a blindfold and spinning her around ... that IS NOT GOOD!!

O my God - they just showed a piece on the making of Ruffian's movie and I am totally sobbing. How the hell will I be able to go see it when I am crying so over just a piece like that.My keyboard is covered in my tears.

Oh, Ruffian, I was hysterical when reading the book, crying just now during the promo for the movie, don't know if I can handle the movie!

Also, anybody, it is Lava Man who runs with the tongue tie, his tongue flying as he goes, or am I wrong?

Good Morning all

Alex, hope you are having a wonderful time!

Barbaro, in case you didn't already know it, we love you SO much.

Taking a class this AM, so wanted to take a break and bring everyone up to speed on LindaH! of course "speed" and my poor little laptop are mutually exclusive, but anyway, Ms. LindaH was a little tired and sore this morning, had kind of a rough night. Why? because she DID TOO MUCH yesterday :) No surprise, huh? She's learned her lesson and is planning on resting today and watching the races like a good girl. No yelling, no jumping up and down ( yeah, right ) Told her to let Alex and all the rest of us do that for her :)

She received her flowers yesterday and said THANK YOU SO MUCH! They are beautiful, especially the carit :)

Gave her all the news I could then her doc came in so I said I'd call this evening to check up on her. Am planning to visit her tomorrow, and if i could find a Barbaro Beanie Baby between now and then I would be ESTATIC

Hope to get home in time for the Big One. Saw a couple of posts that Bernardini may have been scratched? Anything new on that? I hope to God he's okay. Good Lord PLEASE let him be all right

Congratulations to beautiful Redaspen. What an astonshingly gorgeous girl. She reminds me of Ruffian, except for that stunning color, of course. Tim, I think she should live here with me in Aspen Country :) Great win, we are all so proud of you and her.

Okay, back to the closed doors. this is absolutely the worst coffee I've ever had in my life.

Love to all, prayers ongoing that all horses and riders are safe today

I believe,
Cheryl

tears, tears......saw the Ruffian clip

Hi, guys... I've been out of the computer loop since my young dog nosed one of my cats into the water bottle unfortunately on the right side of the computer, and of course when the cat jumped the water spilled onto the mouse... suffice to say, I think it has repaired itself by drying out, since Dell couldn't figure it out any other way...

I, too, Linnie, was screaming no no no when they were trying to get Her Majesty into the gate - those moments are so hard, and I really feel for the horse. Coming over from European style is probably hard, especially for the young ones. You're right, too - she ended up next to last, probably stressed out, and it hardly seems fair -

But - since I haven't read anything for last couple of days -

LAVA MAN IS WEARING NO. 8 - !!!!!!!

When I saw that - well... he's been my man all along, and that sealed the deal.

Linnie if you are watching ESPN Jerry Bailey is going to talk about the "gate" next.

I'm a big baby I haven't read the Ruffian book and won't watch the movie. I'd be depressed for a week. I really can't handle it.

Linda H - follow your doctor's orders!

##

AW FILM MAKER IS TOO CUTE. OK, I STAYED UP ALL NIGHT PLAYING BREEDERS CUP PRE-GAMES ONLINE.

SHAN ETC.. THANKS FOR SENDING MY PICKS TO ME, WILL I WIN A MILLION DOLLARS?? :>) WHY WAS THAT HORSE JUST SHAKING- IS IT REALLY COLD THERE? RANDY SAID IT WAS "BALMY" DIDN'T HE?

GO GIRLS (MARES)!!

CHERYL G

Just Say NO to Horseslaughter

Marky,
I had tears for Ruffian to. What a Beauty!

Barbaro Team: Crying buckets of tears again. They just showed a clip on "Ruffian".........I was watching the fateful race that took her to the Rainbow Bridge..........beautiful girl. May you watch over the horses today and bring them home safely.

Father, the creations that come from Your loving hands are the perfect description of beauty and magnificence. Thank you Father for the majestic "Ruffian".....

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

Very sad. Cried watching the Ruffian clip. Imagine what a mess I will be when the movie comes out. I loved that horse, back when I was 16, and she was on top of the world.

Karen in MD

###
I'll never be able to watch a movie about Ruffian. I hope they don't show the trajedy.

I have to be at my store all day today and I cannot get the races on anything (no TV here, would never want to work). SIRUS has the exclusive and am not a member of anything for the computer.

If anyone knows a way to get it any other way PLEASE let me know, don't mind missing the little races ( not to put any wonderful horse or rider down ) just hate to miss Bernardini and the others. Kinda interested in George Washington cause he is frome Ireland and I am Irish and my maiden name was O'Brien, like the trainer.

Great race day!

Karen M Dallas, Texas

OMG the closeup of Barbaro, tears, tears.

Just showed Bobby breaking early at the Preakness. I am crying again.

oh geez...the Preakness "broke through the gate" clip :(

Karen, I am not sure but mabe Church Hill Downs web site is live streaming?

OMG ... Just seeing that brief clip of Bobby coming out of the gate at The Preakness was heartbreaking ... reliving that moment and now looking at it head on, I definitely believe that something happened to him with the false start at the gate! He just didn't look right in all four legs when he broke.

And when I saw Sam Shepherd is going to be in Ruffian, the movie, I was thrilled. He will do justice to the emotion that movie will inspire. I can't imagine watching it, but won't be able to stay away.

whew these clips are flooding my keyboard. if this goes on im going start drinking now

Guys: Loved the commercial on Emirates Air Bus. I was wondering how they fly the horses to different parts of the world. The start of the commercial was "hilarious" with a horse (not a real one) going thru security. Well, I saw and learned about the "flying" horses.......very interesting.

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

Linnie,
I saw the same thing and told myself don't be silly. I'm glad I'm not alone in my thoughts and eyes are OK.

#####
SUSAN IN TX - I believe you're thinking of Premium Tap (Edgar's riding him)...I saw him race once and his tongue was flapping like Mocha the cow!

#####
Thanks Chris B. I will check it out!!

Karen M. Dallas, Texas

Yes, it is Lava Man who runs with his tongue flying in the wind! They just showed a clip of his win in CA a while back. I hope he wins and he does have lucky #8!!!

What is with the clip/shave job on Satwa Queen?

Yes, it is Lava Man who runs with his tongue flying in the wind! They just showed a clip of his win in CA a while back. I hope he wins and he does have lucky #8!!!

Ouija Board is a real beauty!

Hey Guys...I loved the plane footage too!! WOW...such luxury...I thought it was sooo cute the way the grooms are allowed to pet them and love on them during the flight...aaaaawwwww
It really shows you how human coach flights stink!

Wait a while is pretty

Premium Tap is the tongue flapper...

Pamela,
I found that interesting. I like the behind the sceens info.

HOORAY FOR FILMMAKER !!!!!!!!

Hi, hugs, and love to all FOB's, and prayers continue for all your furry friends, and ALL THE HORSES today.

Barbaro, I just went to pick up an order of bagels and as I was approaching the deli on the sidewalk I noticed a USA Today newstand - immediately saw a horse on the front and thought it was you, and got so excited I nearly walked into a glass door storefront - sheesh!! The glass pane was misted and well - oopsy!
Turns out I think the photo is of your friend, Lava Man ? But just know I'm thinking of you, Barbaro!!
The other thing was this morning when the alarm went off I was still apparently in a dream (?) and I was hearing an announcer shouting "It's Barbaro, here comes Barbaro, the undefeated Barbaro . . . . !!!"
I LOVE YOU BARBARO!! My heart beats for your heart!!
It's a beautiful day just a few counties away from you so I hope you are able to get out a bit, visit with Mocha, have some treats . . . and continue those positive healing thoughts.
As Mr. Jackson said I think you're getting ready for them to "bring on the girls", you keep communicating with Dr. R who loves you so much.

LOVE YOU BABY!!
My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro!!
A kiss on your nose!
Lou Ann, Pennsylvania

WOW what a beautiful horse and great race for Ouija board and yaay for Edgar in 2nd

Great Race by Ouija Board - Film Maker as well.

Agree the bit on the plane ride was fun to see.....

I don't think shes even breathing hard! What a champion!

i'm going to have to close this window soon, but wasn't Ouija Board amazing???

I should have said - HOORAY FOR FILMMAKER and EDGAR PRADO !!!! And GRAHAM MOTION !!!!

(And the owner/trainer switched to Edgar to give her a better shot - !!!) Against a great field, wow!

like leaves...
on a tree ..i sit on the hill overlooking the scene..
the king is not there ..but in a distant stable
....he knows something big is going on.
.michael is not there ,nor roy and gretchen //
but
WE ARE ALL there,them too,
just different
no bodies, but deep current..we are all there with you
many look down the stretch of famous dirt..and feel the the emptiness of
what can not be..for ever..
shock ,disappointment ,.confusion., welded into that track wiht its
curves..all risking to get to the inner rail..
beyond resignation, into redemption. YOU ARE CROSSING THE RIVER..
..you get it . great horse
where our humans ,our leaders ,struggle to get anything.. but..
...you so get it..
.....dearest barbaro,
walking in the leaves last night
returning from ......
i am struck
by the patterns in my hands of drying red leaves.
..their veins all entwined and yet each distinct...their damp musky scent
...connecting to me . to
connecting one by one to each other
some call that together...
... and so it is on this land today
, we hear, see
another page in .your nation of brothers and
sisters.. ..
.. .
rest well and graze today
..to your hearts content.
your bath day
your strength and humor ..today.
..line up the mints..
hoof grow ,all four legs safe..red blood pump through that mighty
heart--peacefully.
i am sure your hear your nation
, part gather at some distant gates..
thundering hooves. willing hearts ,..ready to flower in the effort..
we are indeed all connected
all the limbs of our tree
folding over and under..
...leslie in MN- thank you so for hearing me
...i feel connected to everyone..the invisible and the visible
...the candles in their light
i hear about the dutch horses and before you know it they are saved...my
heart can go back in..whew..lord. ..joinuing us all far and wide..thnak
you .,
thank you.c.jaffe.
i will be delighted to hear,visit, WITH your music
it will be wonderful
l. as soon as i can
i will follow the steps to your songs
.. thank you.
robyn
, I WILL BE THERE With MY SCROLL/...ha ha ha
...yes. when bobby is inaugurated..president for life. soul extraordinary
we shall meet on that beautiful knoll..and in that beautiful song.

for the horse...colors.ruthie....and the golden retriever
..MY PRAYERS FORyou all in your pain and challnege..for
AVI , prayers almost all answered..yes...yes.
..little opie gets to the vatican..and the best ambassador.
..little erin who fights might and might
..let me carry your loads
...down this path..that curves more gently.
..no thick dirt..soft moss
..dear alex and mike,
may you enjoy every breath of today
...may all horses land safely in their barns
..may all owners and riders feel that their presence alone is one
victory and anything above that,
is glorious.
..may the dirt today not be so thick and rain leave till the next sun
....rest dear horses..before the charge
...lava man ..you know so much already about humans promises and lies?
...those street smarts will come in handy with all the depth of talent
and royalty
...stay safe stay safe..no broken hearts today..all are winners..
to the ground in which i have been laying
,you;ve got the fir BARBARO-
-bring me the cup..
got the fire bring me the cup..
heart hurts..
we got the fire. bring us the cup
..run, run, run..
the leaf in my hand..connected to the branch ,of the bigger limb
...on the hill the trunk..
veins .entwined with the golds,reds and browns..life.fire....
in the light and in the dark,
martita.

#####
Markey, Lisa, Cindy and Cheryl you all make great commentators and thanks since I can't get the info here.

Karen M. Dallas, Texas

Can't help it - was applauding for Ouija Board as she walked around, just like everyone else there... How silly, clapping at home, but boy she is a superstar.

Alex,

We're all on the discussion board, hollering, too! Ouija & Film Maker! What a race!!! Hope you are having a wonderful time!! Please congratulate Graham Motion for all of us!!!!

Cheers!

-Julie

HELP!!!! I MUST HAVE MISSED THIS:

O my God - they just showed a piece on the making of Ruffian's movie and I am totally sobbing. How the hell will I be able to go see it when I am crying so over just a piece like that.My keyboard is covered in my tears.

Posted by: chris byers at November 4, 2006 6:32 PM
####################################################3

THEY ARE MAKING A MOVIE OF RUFFIAN????????? FOR TV OR THE MOVIE THEATRES? DID THEY SAY WHEN IT WAS GOING TO AIR OR BE RELEASED????????/

OMG! I haven't read the book and now I'm afraid to after what I've read here on the board about how emotional it is ... how will I ever watch the movie when I cry buckets every time I watch the JLS movie and watch the Secretariat tape that has GOOD stuff on it!!!!!

Shelly,
You're not alone, I'm vocal here the dog thinks I'm nuts. lol

CONGRATS TO GRAHAM AND EDGAR FOR SECOND PLACE ON FILM MAKER! SHE'S A GREAT HORSE!! JUST NOT QUITE AS GOOD AS OUIJA BOARD BUT FILM MAKER'S RACE WAS TERRIFIC!

GREAT RIDE, EDGAR!!

Linnie,
Read Ruffian it is a wonderful story that stays with you. She is unbelievable even though most good stories end sadly.

I am trying NOT to read who wins. I am working and have it recording....but the movie about Sweet Ruffian, I am with some of you guys about not being able to watch it. I still to this day cry when I think about her. I quit watching horse racing after that and Barbaro brought me back.

Linnie: Sounded like it was for TV - out June 2007....

Had tears in my eyes watching the trailer....

Edgar you are the Man. Congrasts to you and Fil Maker. Great race!

Rub it in, Alex, rub it in....FYI, ESPN made the same comment as you about Frankies bad ride on Swane...

ALEX...I said you'd have lost your British cool during that race! LOL
Wasn't it a fantastic race? I'm so glad that Film Maker got second! :-)
Have fun!!!!

###
Linnie
June 07 ABC

####
I'm up to $500 bucks on my garage sale.

Here is some horsey humor. One of my horsey clubs has horsey humor in the newsletter every month. If you enjoy it, I'll post it every month. (Remind me!)

Horsey Humor

A Horse's View of the World

Arena: Place where humans can take the fun out of forward motion.

Bit: Means by which a rider's every motion is transmitted to the sensitive tissues of the mouth.

Bucking: counter irritant

Cross ties: Gymnastic apparatus.

Dressage: Process by which some riders can eventually be taught to respect the bit.

Fence: Barrier that protects good grazing.

Grain: Sole virtue of domestication.

Hitching rail: Means by which to test one's strength.

Horse trailer: Mobile cave bear den.

Hot walker: The lesser of two evils.

Jump: An opportunity for self-statement.

Latch: Type of puzzle.

Longeing: Procedure for keeping a prospective rider at bay.

Owner: Human assigned responsibility for one's feeding.

Rider: Owner overstepping its bounds.

Farrier: Disposable surrogate owner; useful for acting out aggression without compromising food supply.

Trainer: Owner with mob connections.

Veterinarian: Flightless albino vulture.

Happy Weekend fellow fans,

Great races, huh? Ouija Board was just awesome!

Alex - it's wonderful to know you're having such a good time.

I, too, am in a tizzy about the Ruffian movie. I don't know if I'd be able to watch it. Well, we have a long time to decide.

Janice
A proud fan of Barbaro

Shelly,
I'm giving the horses instuctions and encouragement DURING the race. You know like;
Come on baby, you can do it
Don't let em catch you champ
and so on. Thank goodness I'm here with only the dogs!

Boy, Henny Hughs has really matured!!

whoops I just said ALRIGHT EDGAR out loud in this ##@#!! class

Go Ouija Board, good girl!! Safe travels to Asia.

RUFFIAN movie.. did anyone else see the preview earlier? Did anyone else grab a Kleenex?

May all the horses run with the wind and come home safe today. We love you Bobby, enjoy your bath and sneak a few extra bites today, you've earned it, big guy! Grow hoof, grow.

BELIEVE

EDGAR, MY HERO...there is no one I'd rather have you lose to than the awesome Ouija Board - nice to see the Americans give her such a great reception! Loved her jockey - blowing kisses, kissing the horse's face and shoulder - who says the English are reserved?

Lisa L
Thanks, I guess I'm confused about the "tongue flappers". Then Premium Tap won one of the big races this summer/fall? I can't remember when I saw it.

Does anyone know how what the attendance is at churchill today?

War Front was just shown walking off his trailer. Boy, does he have presence. Nice, nice looking horse.

Linnie, it will be in the theaters in June 2007. Sam Shepard is in it. How can I go? How can I not?

Martita - Beautiful.

Linnie,
I saw the same thing and told myself don't be silly. I'm glad I'm not alone in my thoughts and eyes are OK.

Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 4, 2006 6:52 PM

I don't want to believe this, Renee, but something just seemed 'off' but it's very possible that I just don't know what to really look for and 'see' with stuff like this. We will never know for sure, sadly.

Lisa L
Thanks, I guess I'm confused about the "tongue flappers". Then Premium Tap won one of the big races this summer/fall? I can't remember when I saw it.

Great Racing and great coverage! Love the above angle! Was it this good in previous years? I am impressed! Too bad I'm trying to clean house in between races....!
Back to vacuuming......

Barbaro, we are rooting for you in your race to Grow that hoof!!! Grow Hoof Grow!

Nancy in Va Beach :)

okay got to go for now lunch will start just before this next race Has anyone heard anything about Bernardini?

Linnie, it will be in the theaters in June 2007. Sam Shepard is in it. How can I go? How can I not?

Thanks, Chris, at least it will give me 7 months from now to 'prepare' for it, but I know that I will have to see it ...

#####
Karen I have the same experience, I was a child and madly in love with Ruffian. I did not watch a race again until I saw a close up Of Barbaro's face just before the Derby. I watched through my fingers........and I can still hear......."and here comes Barbaro"

Susan in Tx: Correct re Premium Tap - His tongue was all over the place except in his mouth....

Cheryl, I have not heard that he was scratched.

Barb AZ, LOL I love your horse humor! Thanks for posting it!

martita, thank you for putting it back in the eternal perspective... a game missing a brilliant star today, passion and grief, all entwined, hearts aflutter, beautiful athletes running their hearts out for us, for them, while we pray for safety and happiness for all running to have honored lives ahead, with people who will care and cherish them for all they gave. Your words, like autumn leaves, beautiful.

Isn't Ouija Board AWSOME!!! Love to see those older mares running.

Happy for Edgar & Graham & Film Maker for a good second. No shame in finishing second to Ouija Board.

Bobby, you watching Big Guy?

Kim

Cindy, Barbara, and Whoever!!

BERNARDINI IS NOT SCRATCHED at least he's not been scratched as of 1:30 p.m. So whoever posted earlier that he was scratched. You were mistaken!!


jock4hire (lj)

Marky,

Just think about the movie they WILL make on our boy!

###
I don't think I can go to the Ruffian movie......but the one about our boy? I will be the first to buy a ticket and see it 20 times!

Renee and Laurie in MN ...

I wrote a rather long post to both of you at 1 AM about Jonathan Livingston Seagull, the movie and the album. If you haven't read it and would like to, it's timestamped at 6:23 AM under Update 122.

Thanks Alex for all the updates today. ENJOY yourself (as you certainly deserve it!!).

Watching an afternoon of racing on ESPNHD, looks like a beautiful day.

Believe in Barbaro!

###back

thanks Chris I read earlier that there was some question whether he had been scratched or the ticket might have been an error

omigoodness this is so nervewracking

thor's echo won

LOL!! Marky, I know what ya mean!! I'll just camp out at the movies until it's over with....they will have to take me away!!

love that hair

###
cool Karen we will be in the same rubber room talking about every scene in detail

good showing, Edgar!! whew this is really taking the wind out of me Hope Henny is okay

Cory Naketano is awesome, isn't he?

I'll be back gotta pound down a sandwich and get back and get to the test so I can broom outta here

Later all Be safe everyone

Wow ... the Sprint was a surprise with Thor's Echo winning AND CONGRATULATIONS TO EDGAR FOR HIS 3RD PLACE FINISH ON NIGHTMARE AFFAIR!!!!

Edgar's having a good day so far coming in the money!!

I was just thinking about the great Ferdinand. May his horrible death not be in vain.
We are fighting the good fight!

### Jock4hire ...... I posted it earlier - I'd seen it posted on the board before the new board came on .... was just repeating what I'd seen ....
glad it was an error !

Sherry

Linnie...I put a late bet on Thor's Echo! :-)

OMG, JO!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! NICE PAYOFF,EH!!!!!

YOU GO GIRL!!!!!! DID YOU HAVE ANY OTHER WINNERS SO FAR?

LOL!! Marky, I'll see ya there!! I wonder if they can get Barbaro to star in it, or his little brother?

Barbaro,

You have ACN!! I will check on you on Monday...love you sweet prince.

BLB!

FOB FOREVER!!

Karen

Even with its sad ending, Ruffian was so wonderful and her story is heroic. Reading and writing about her got me through a very hard time-- she will always be what you can't forget

Lyn Lifshin

With all the winning horses coming from Gate 1 or 2, maybe that gives Round Pound a chance for Michael Matz in the Distaff - !!! Gorella would have to come from way out in the Mile next, though - have to admit it, I would love for her to beat the boys...

Linnie,
What a great post on JLS.I enjoyed reading what you had to say about it. I wore a necklace with him on it for a long time and still have it.The book was excellent. I love Neil Diamond, have seen him in concert many times and his cd is always in my car plus the ones in the house.

DEAREST BARBARO, thinking of you every minute today, Champ.. Wish you were THERE.. You are casting that shadow from Kennett Sq. to Churchill Downs..

But wishing more that you have a comfortable happy day with Mom & Dad, have a refreshing bafth, go out to graze and get plenty of goodies.

Lots of people love you so much!

GOOD AFTERNOON ALL

BC DAY...someone had that right!!!! Guess that stands for BARBARO'S CUP DAY?????

Seriously everyone.....no matter who wins today ??? Our boy has cast a very big shadow over the precedings and although he can't attend in body.....HE IS VERY MUCH IN ATTENDANCE !!!!

No matter which horse wins and I'm secretly ... well openly now rooting for George Washington because I feel we should at least keep it in the JACKSON family...."BOBBY" will be a big part of the conversation there!!!!!!

It's bath day Champion of Forever and you must look your handsome-est today!!! Many eyes will be on YOU !!!! RELAX and ENJOY the spectacle!!! WE KNOW who is the fastest !!!!!
WE BELIEVE IN MIRACLES !!!!
WE BELIEVE IN YOU !!!!!

THANK YOU LORD for all your blessings where Barbaro is concerned ...continue his miracle!!!
Bless all those in need of your care today !!!!
AMEN

LUV TO ALL MY FAVORITE PEOPLE.....

C'MON GORELLA,
Show those boys girl power

With all the FOB's going to see Barbaro's movie which we will see over and over. The rest of the public will have to wait. Oh well. LOL

Linnie...I don't know if I've won anything else and it's only monopoly money but it's fun! LOL
So many talented horses in this next race!

Oh, I won with Ouija Board! :-)

Jock4hire and whoever
Mike c. posted that this morning, that's where I saw it first. Glad to hear he's running!

I agree with many here today, all I see on that track is Barbaro! I bet if he gets a splint there will be video of him on TV.

A Barbaro movie? I think they should give him his own reality TV show.

Go Gorella!!

GO GO GORELLA!!!!!

OK Gorella...get ready to show the boys what you're made of!!!! You go girl!!!

What a day of races!!!!

http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061104/COLUMNISTS01/611040391/1002

Another Good Article I hadn't seen posted here yet:

For Barbaro, Just another Day By Day

Bobby

http://www.philly.com/mld/dailynews/sports/15927887.htm?source=rss&channel=dailynews_sports

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

GO GORELLA!!!
She will hopefully be one of Barbaro's many girlfriends. I feel like she's already one of the family! YEA!

YEAH JO (UK) for your win!!

GO GORELLA!!

GO LAVA MAN!!

Carol
San Diego

right on with that, Cindy!

Go Gorella! Go girl!

Echo of Light, Aragorn and Aussie Rules for me...and then I have my reserves! lol

There's Aiden!!!! :-)

Keeping my fingers crossed for beautiful "Gorella".......what a beauty she is. I agree,perfect match for our Precious Barbaro.

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

Shannon: Gorella, Aragorn, Araafa

GO GIRL GO!!!! BE SAFE...LOVE YOU!

xoxoxoxo

Aiden's cute! What's he look like without sunshades? Still cute?

GO, GO, GO, GO GORELLA ...

LEAVE THOSE BOYS IN THE DUST!!!

SHOW 'EM, GIRL .... YOU JUST SHOW 'EM!!!

DANG

######
Marky...... No

HAY, HAY...let's here it for the "old guy" in the mile!!!

Gorella did not place

Double Dang

WOW!!! That was a big surprise!

##
Nancy it is cool to see an old boy win, but my heart was with Gorella

Great win for Miesque's Approval, 7 yrs old. Thats great. Little dissapointed for Gorella but thats horse racing.

WOW! SOME REAL SURPRISES AND UPSETS TODAY ... HMMMM

A real long shot wins the Mile leaving Gorella, Aragorn and Arafaa (sp?) in the dust big time.

BUT AGAIN, CONGRATS TO EDGAR FOR HIS 3RD PLACE SHOWING WITH BADGE OF SILVER! WAY TO GO EDGAR!!!

Now ... I'm starting to feel a little antsy about The Classic ... I'm not going to be surprised at all by the outcome after the surprises in The Sprint and now The Mile!!!

Wow! Upsets today.. OK FOBs, who are you picking for the Classic? Today is all about Barbaro, you can feel him there at Churchill. Somebody asked, it's maybe 80,000 attendance today.

Off to watch the later races with other friends... you friends take care! Catch you later, Cheers, Susan H

Wow.........congratulations to "Miseque's Approval", 7 year old from Florida......Wow!!

Congratulations again to our Edgar Prado on Badge of Silver--came in 3rd.

Precious Barbaro: Feeling your magnificent presence with every break of the gate......Love you so much our Beautiful Boy.

"Please Pray for the Horses"

Jeanette Cavalier

Did they say Eddie Castro owns Godiva Chocolate?

Forgot to say "Congratulations" to Miesque's Approval ... a FLORIDA horse!!! YIPEEEEEEE!!!!

Did they say Eddie Castro owns Godiva Chocolate?

Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 4, 2006 8:28 PM

NO ... THEY SAID THAT LITTLE EDDIE CASTRO "EATS" GODIVA CHOCOLATE!!!!! LOLOLOL ... Just kidding Renee I didn't really hear what they said but my ears DID perk up when Godiva Chocolates was mentioned!!

Did they say Charlotte Weber owns Campbell Soup and Godiva ?

what a great race and an upset!

Don't worry Gorella, you did good and are safe.

Congratulations to Steve Klesaris and The Holy One for a win at Delaware!

Love the "Breeders' commercial........especially "men are pigs".....sorry guys, I didn't say it but I think about it alot.

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

Kenny may be silly, but the little breeders' side piece was just sweet and funny -

Crossing my fingers and Toes for Round Pond!!! May she make Michael Proud!!!!

I also am going to predict that George Washington WILL Beat Bernadini.. That is going to be one Hell of a race. all those great horses..

But I still Feel George is going to do it.. :)

I love Kenny Mayne's droll wit! That piece was so funny!

I wonder if Shawlette Lover was making up her shopping list during..... Ha ha!

They boxed my girl Gorella!! Thats ok.. she took on the boys and she is safe and sound.. she needs a rest.. she has been dominating the girls all year. She needs some time off.

Today has been upset day..

Go Round Pond!!

Here is what I am predicting the final 3 for the race:

George Washington
Lava Man
Bernadini.. .

####

It is about time that a movie was made about remarkable Ruffian. A whole new generation needs to see her story unfold on screen in order to appreciate her true place in racing history. Ruffian was one of a kind. No one will replace her. I loved her while she was with us and I thought I'd never watch another race after her breakdown in the Match Race with Foolish Pleasure. But I came back to racing gradually because I couldn't stay away from the beauty of a horse who loves to run. Ruffian was all that and more!! I am thrilled that she will finally be memorialized on film for all to see the big-hearted filly who never thought second place was an option. I can't wait. I am so sorry I missed the trailer about the movie.

GO ROUND POND!

Alex, I hope you are having the blast of your life!! Enjoy every moment!

Barbaro, I hope you had some company today and not too lonely while everyone is so occupied. Don't feel down, honey, you're just resting. Think of your buddy, Seabiscuit.
My heart beats for your heart!
A kiss on your nose!
Positive healing thoughts for Lael Meadows to come. God's light surrounds you.
Love you, Lou Ann

Praying for all the horses, St. Francis keep them safe!

WITH YOU ALL FOR VIGIL TONIGHT, 7 PM EST.

########
MARTITA - that was beautiful!!! Your writings are always beautiful but sometimes they really take me over the top - as if you can feel the actual pulse of what we are sensing-thinking.
God Bless you!

HAY, HAY...let's here it for the "old guy" in the mile!!!

Posted by: Nancy in CT at November 4, 2006 8:22 PM

I agree ... The Old Guy FROM FLORIDA! It figures!! LOLOL

rosemary, it was a piece on the making of the movie. Sam Shepard is in it! It made me and a lot of others sob.

QUESTION FOR ANYONE ...

HAVE THEY SHOWN ANY FEATURE PIECE ON BARBARO DURING THIS TELECAST YET?

I'VE BEEN IN AND OUT AND I JUST WANT TO BE SURE I DIDN'T MISS IT!

PLEASE TELL ME I HAVEN'T MISSED ANYTHING. I DID SEE THE FAST BREAK OUT OF THE GATE FOR THE PREAKNESS BUT THAT'S ALL ... IS THAT ALL THERE WAS SO FAR?

#####
LINNIE - makes sense to me - lots of "old guys" end up in Florida...

THE CLASSIC - I really want Bernardini to win, but I'm wondering about Invasor...hmmmm

Barbaro, You handsome stud!!! Another Comfortable Night!!! Hooray!! I hope you get to go outside today or is it bath day? Whatever you do, I hope you enjoy the day. It's crisp here in Tennessee. I Love You!!! Take Care!!!

#####
LINNIE - nothing on Barbaro yet...I'm thinking before the running of the Classic...

I'm with you Katie, GOOOOOOOOOOOOO Georgie!

Since today is upset day, here is my pick: Premiun Tap, 1: because he is a tongue flapper and 2: because Edgar could win on a goat.......y'all got it here first, world class picks.

Barbaro, You handsome stud!!! Another Comfortable Night!!! Hooray!! I hope you get to go outside today or is it bath day? Whatever you do, I hope you enjoy the day. It's crisp here in Tennessee. I Love You!!! Take Care!!!

Marky, You are funny!!!!!!!!!! They should have goat races or mule races. We have mule races here in Humboldt Cnty. Them mules is pretty fast!

#########

Marky that is great!

Rosemaray in NE: I also thought I would never watch horse racing again after seeing our beautiful "Ruffian".........but thanks to our Precious Barbaro, I am beginning to watch horse racing again and my eyes aren't being "squinted" as much......good thing, my "crow's feet" are beginning to look more like "chicken feet".....thank God for "Oil of Old Age" (I used to pronouce it Oil of Olay).....many years ago.

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

###
LOL Bonnie, as you can tell I am a great expert, btw I LOVE donkeys and mules, love pig races too.

They're showing Round Pond! I hope she does good!

My limited knowledge in horse racing: There are always alot of upsets in the big races.

Nothing that I've seen on Big Boy yet> I think Nancy is right.

Is the Emirates race up next? If so what time? Don't have a tv watching on espn, they don't give time, thanks.

ROUND POND WON!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh, My GOD - MIRACLES DO HAPPEN !!!!!

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH Round Pound won

Pine island pulled up!!! OH NO

what who got hurt?

Oh my gosh.. Jockey is hurt.. HOpe Pine Island is okay.. oh wow

OH NO

YEAAAAAA

Round pond got it.

Afleet Indian and Pine Island what happened?

Oh NO

Both Pine Island and Fleet Indian are injured -- Pine Island very badly.

NO NO NO NO OMG NOT AGAIN PLEASE LET EVERY ONE BE OK

Pine Island jockeys taken in ambulance..

Pine Island is hurt.. not sure what is going on

###########

They are talking the Barbaro connections, Michael Matz and Edgar Prado - ROUND POND and EDGAR PRADO win it - (Breeder's Cup distaff)

OMG two horses pulled up - let's see what's going on - OY VEY. Fleet Indian apparently will be OK, the other one (WHO ?? ) is going out on a stretcher - as Edgar watches - heartwrenching, say the announcers - Bernadini's jockey involved in the pull up - tbc - CJ in Hammond IN

Pine Island is life threatening

######
Other injured fiilly - Pine Island - CJ in Hammond IN

Marky - LOLOLOLOLOL
Since today is upset day, here is my pick: Premiun Tap, 1: because he is a tongue flapper and 2: because Edgar could win on a goat.......y'all got it here first, world class picks.

Posted by: Marky at November 4, 2006 8:49 PM

Dammit, I hate this stuff. Racing is such a beautiful sport, but such a terrible one. Poor Michael, winning a race when something like this happened.

Thank God for Edgar Prado keeping Round Pond out of the jostling.

We love you Edgar.. We Love you Round Pond!!

Fleet Indian, your awesome please be ok!! Pine Island.. Gosh... this is just not what i wanted to see.. javier Castelano taken in Ambulance,,, anyone see what happen to Pine Island?

Oh no.

Fleet Indian is hurt but not as bad as Pine Island.

dislocated ankle and skin broken. Significant injury Infection introduced because of skin

Dislocated front ankle on Pine Island.. PRAYERS for her

Edgar was watching and looking over at them..wow

Alex,
Congratulations to Round Pound. Let's hope all is ok for Pine Island and Fleet Indian.

#########
De. Larry Bramlage - reporting left front ankle appears dislocated, with torn flesh.

Fleet Indian injured also

Pine Island at a minimum dislocated her ankle and it broke through the skin. Gosh, this is awful.

oH, how very sad for Edgar, and Michael.

2 horses, down... maybe Churchill Downs will be going to synthetic track sooner than expected.

Pray for the horses.

For some reasons espn won't play the last race, what happened, Round Pond won and what happened to Pine Island, thanks

I'm crying

####
Not laughing anymore Anita: Pine Island seriously hurt, jockey hurt too

Is Bernadinis jockey okay??

soft tissue and bone injury makes it very serious injury to Pine Island

the irony here is unbelievable. Now Michael and Edgar are in the winner's circle and two breakdowns.

Poor Pine Island. Hope she goes to NBC and Dr. R

OMG - WHY I HATE RACING!!! My heart also goes out to Edgar and Michael...talk about having your buttons pushed!!

Lets all pray for Pine Island to survive! I hope and pray she has a chance to overcome this injury and I hope her owners are the caliber as Barbaro's. Tears!!

will Bernardini's jockey be able to ride him???

I am so happy for Michael and Edgar. However, that poor horse!!

I love that horse, she is my favorite filly. I always giggle at her gangly big self. Her big juggy head, I am just devastated right now. Oh god.

Pine Island has a dislocated ankle with a break through the skin. They say it is very bad. I am so upset. Candle time

Barbaro I Iove you..

screaming then crying...oh sad..sad

Iove hugs,prayers
Iinda a
oregon

It really takes the joy out of the day... Sadness, sadness.

Jeannine interviewing Michael Matz. What a guy.

SOB, SOB, SOB, SOB...I haven't cried like this since the Preakness - EVERYBODY PRAY LIKE MAD!

Marky - so I read in the postings. Am online following everyone's comments and also on Churchill Downs website. Don't have cable, maybe that is a blessing...

Any word on Fleet Indian yet?? I haven't heard them say how injured she was..

Pine Island now they are saying could have a fracture there.. coming from another station....

I hope they can get Pine Island to Dr. Richardson. I can't believe this happened. I was shrieking about Round Pond....

This is bad. I can't stop thinking about Gallant Secret right now.

At least the announcers are being somber and respectful and appropriate.

Divine Order right now in all concerning injured horses at Breeder's. God direct all actions concerning Pine Island and Fleet Indian and their jockey.

Praise God...........Round Pond is the winner.........Barbaro, precious boy.....your spirit was with your Barbaro Connection. Congratulations to Michael Matz....

Fleet Indian was pulled up and Pine Island....Father, please be with these magnificent horses.....please, Father, don't take these ones yet. My Divine Mercy, may your healing rays from your loving heart heal these two horses. Amen

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

CONGRATS MICHAEL AND ROND POND!!! YEA!!!

VERY SAD RACE THOUGH WITH PINE GOING DOWN SO BADLY. :>(

LUV & PRAYERS FOR PINE ISLAND,
CHERYL G

Just Say NO to Horseslaughter

Bernardini's jockey apparently will be OK to ride.

I feel so bad for Michael. We should be rejoicing over Round Pond's victory and thrilled that Michael said Barbaro's cast will be coming off next week. I can hardly concentrate worrying about Pine Island, poor girl. This is almost too much to bear.

Alex -

How terrific for you to have such a wonderful fall day at Churchill. The place really is awesome.

So glad Barbaro is doing fine. Thanks for letting us know...even when you are on the road.
It is so appreciated.

I still can not get over Edgars Face as he was coming back to the winnders circle.. wow.. He was so concerned about what happened..

I am so sorry......being in racing for years....I am used to this, but it never gets better...it only gets worse......OMG how is COREY?

Round Pond, Edgar, Michael....YIPPPPPPPPPPPPPE!

So sad....one minute cheering like mad for Round Pond, and now crying for Pine Island and Fleet Indian.

Please dear God, let them heal and be well again!

Love,
Sue xoxo

It was the Distaff race that claimed the beautiful Go For Wand, I think. Lord, be with Pine Island and her connections. That was terrible.

I was screaming for Michael and had not seen the problems.

The look on Dr. Larry's face is very bad. everyone pray!

I'm sure Edgar is reliving Barbaro's breakdown. How awful! God I hope Pine Island can be saved and her owners have the money to try.

Alex's helpers:

Can you see if Alex can find out how Fleet Indian and Pine Island are?

We'd all appreciate it. We're all thrilled for MM & Round Pond, but very heart broken over Pine & Fleet.

Thanks ever so much!

All that's coming to mind is..

"the agony, the ecstacy, and the irony."

How bittersweet for Matz and Prado.
How ironic.

Gods speed to them all right now.

Praying for a good outcome. Oh, please, let them all be ok.

GO ROUND POUND! Barbaro they cant forget you :) The cast is coming off soon baby boy keep getting better everyday. Love to you from Charleston South Carolina.......

One brief moment of Tears of Happiness immediately turned into uncontrollable sobs for this unfolding tragedy.

Why, why, why did this have to happen? And especially why during the One Moment of Sheer Joy that should have belonged to Michael and Edgar? Why?

I cannot stop crying ... no SOBBING ... for all of it ... So so happy for Michael and Edgar, and so angry that this happened during THEIR Victory. Yes, I know this is very very selfish, but this is horrendous.

And poor Pine Island ... this sounds awful for her and who knows what's really wrong with Fleet Indian.

This is a very very strange day ... I wish I could talk to one of the FOBs ... I can't stop crying.

This is just terrible about Pine Island. I really
like her; she has always been a gutsy little filly.

Once again, Edgar Prado is a class act, you can always see his deep and first concern, the horses.

Let's pray for Pine Island.

THey euthanized Pine Island

Oh, Pine Island was euthanized. Oh, Lord.

If it would have been any other horse in the field besides Round Pond I probably would have been allright, but I have really been following PI this summer. She just really captured my heart, I was looking froward to this race just for her. I am just so freaked out. God be with her over the Rainbow Bridge now.

PINE ISLAND, rest in peace forever with The Fog

OH GOD they put Pine Island down a few minutes ago

No one deserves the Distaff win more than Rick Porter who is the nicest man to share so much with Round Pond fans and of course Michael and Edgar. Yet the win is a blur in light of the horrible accidents with Fleet Indian and Pine Island.

After that accident I can't believe he is going to

Pine Island euthanized tearssssss

The worst news possible. Why can't this be prevented?

Rest in Peace Sweet Filly

OH BARBARO

pine isIand..oh no.....

oh no...

Iove
Iinda a oregon

Injury was too severe and too much adrenlaine.. they had to put her down. Pine Island.. oh my gosh

Did the accident occur at the very end of the race, I saw the race on espn but didn't see the accident?

How terrible! God, please touch Pine Island and Fleet Indian with you hands right now. Lead the veterinarians in treating them, confort their owners and trainers.

Did you guys see how concerned Edgar was? Poor guy, his big moment today and this happens. I love Edgar.

Just heard Pine Island was euthanized. Awful turn of events.

how terrible terrible about pine island-- how sad and terrible-- i can hardly believe it

lyn

Pine Island was just euthanized. Her injuries were just too severe. This is just awful.

She is with Ruffian and Gallant Secret now.My heart felt condolences to all of Pine Island's connections.

Rest In Peace - Pine Island

Somehow the rest of the race doesn't matter as much.

What a horrible accident. How he can ride Bernardini now is beyond me.

Distaff will not soon be forgotten. Such tragedies at the major tracks.

Dear God, please watch over your new beautiful angel who has just come to you and bless her.

Godspeed, Pine Island...

Love you,
Sue
xoxo

######

Barbaro,

I wonder if your world is too intense for me.....

30 minutes ago, a beautiful horse stood, happy, ready, willing - life is so fragile, we have been again witness. We have a new angel joining Gallant Secret.

Michael must really understand how Bernardini's connections felt at the Preakness - so happy for your horse's performance, but so much grief at the tragedy that has unfolded

Pray for Michael & Edgar, too...

RIP Pine Island.

Thoughts and prayers with the Phipps and all connections of PI

I am so sad right now.

I'm outta here for awhile. I'll watch the replay on the next races tomorrow.

Rest in peace, Pine Island.

OH DEAR GOD .... HOW CAN THEY MAKE A DECISION SO QUICKLY TO PUT A HORSE DOWN? IT WAS ONLY A FEW MINUTES AFTER THE RACE ... HOW COULD THEY HAVE KNOW THAT PINE ISLAND COULDN'T SURVIVE?? HOW??? WHY???

DO YOU KNOW HOW LUCKY WE ARE TO EVEN HAVE BARBARO WITH US TODAY? THIS IS ONE INCREDIBLY STRONG HORSE WITH GOD ON HIS SIDE.

I AM A MESS! A MESS ... JUST CAN'T STOP CRYING!

Rest in Peace Pine Island.

Laurie H,

I feel the same way you do.

It's all too much.

I hope Bernadinis Jockey is okay. what he must be feeling at the moment knowing that Pine Island had to be euthanized.

From another site, they said her ankle injury was SEVERE and not repairable and she fought in the barn and broke it worse.. Said her ankle was shattered... and bone out of the skin...

I am lighting a candle for her.. Fleet Indian has a tendon injury.. not life threatening but career ending

I know she was met at the rainbow bridge by LITF. And they are now running free in pastures of green. God bless you Pine Island.

This goes to show how blessed we were that Barbaro's accident occurred at the start of the race. What if his adrenaline had made him unable to cope with injury???? god Bless you Barbaro.

God Bless Pine Island. Hopefully she didn't suffer much. Such a bad fall though, it was ugly!! I doubt they will show it again, now.

Wasn't it the Breeders' Cup Distaff that cost Go For Wand her life? Has there ever been a BC meet without a fatality?

Linnie, the track vet said they could see the ends of her compound fractures and that they had touched the dirt of the track.

...and pray for our dear Alex - I can't imagine witnessing something like this in person - it's horrific enough on television.

Darlin' has a new playmate, the firmament on high has another shining star, Barbaro has another angel...

Pray hard for Pine Island. Track vet said a life=threatening injury with dislocated ankle and broken skin. Pray for her during Barbaro's vigil tonight! Bittersweet victory for Round Pond, Mike and Edgar. Barbaro you are so lucky--will Pine Island's team go the extra mile for her? Love you, big B. Keep on healing.

yES ... EDGAR'S FACE WILL STAY WITH ME FOREVER ... I'M SURE HE RELIVED THOSE PREAKNESS MOMENTS IN HIS MIND OVER AND OVER AGAIN IN A FLASH ...

WHY DID THIS HAVE TO HAPPEN DURING HIS MOMENT OF GLORY? I STILL DON'T UNDERSTAND THIS ... WHY, WHY, WHY?

Heavenly Father, you've taken Pine Island to the Rainbow Bridge......Foggy, greet this beautiful horse that has gone to be with you and all the "great ones" to run and play happily together.........

(Can't stop these tears).......

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

This is TB racing, no wonder I don't watch too often. Doesn't seem fair to that poor horse, sorry but I feel kind of angry.

Linnie, we're here. The country is crying right now. You said it. We're with you.

Fleet Indian was to go to sale on Monday. This was her last race. She can still be an excellent brood mare.

Katie - what site was that?

Linnie

when they took her back to the barn, she was still "geared up".. she fought and they could not get her settled and she broke it worse.. It was VERY VERY bad break, and not repairable because she made it worse that is from another feed I am getting..

They had to euthanize her as she was in severe pain and the injury was not repairable.. it was a bad injury and made worse when she fought and thrashed in the barn area

Another heartbreak and the reason I usually only watch replays. I'm so sad but so happy for Michael Matz. And relieved the jockey is ok.

Given what has just happened, this isn't really important. But as a person new to this sport I don't always see what the rest of you do. What was the foul? Was he supposed to move over and didn't? That's what it seemed to me but I don't know. Thanks.

I really can't stand this--I really adored that filly. Rest in peace, you beautiful girl.

Every race I thought: so far so good. It just breaks my heart about Pine Island and her connections. I'm just sick.

Barbaro is very, very lucky. Everything came together to save him. I know the Phipps would have saved her if they could, but it was impossible.

Jeannine was getting choked up.

Heart felt congrats to Round Pond -- Michael Matz -- Eduado Prado -- all of you, on this bitter sweet day.

Unbelievable....:-(

Rest in Peace "Pine Island"---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maybe this sport is not for folks like me, I am a mess

Hi to all FFOBs and Horse Lovers Everywhere! Will someone please let me know what that natural remedy is that was mentioned on the Board yesterday during the discussion about Gifted Colors' tummy situation? It sure sounds better than Pepto-Bismol. Might be worth a shot!

Speaking of Gifted Colors, how is she doing today? Has her stomach problem been diagnosed yet? Please keep us all posted!

Thanks from Laura S. in Washington State!

It is a site you have to be a member of.. We have inside connections in KY that are giving us the information.. one person was in the barn when htey brought her in.. all they are saying is that it was a very very bad break in the ankle area, and she also broke another leg bone fighting them

Same Doc that euthanized Saint Liam immediately. I'm so glad he wasn't at the Preakness.

It was the distaff in 1990 in which Go For Wand and another filly in the same broke down & were euthanized. Also on the card another colt broke down and was euthanized. Some theorized that the BC would never recover for it. This has been a tough year for racing.

Just a note to those thinking they would have taken Pine Island to NBC, Lexington has superb equine vets also, including Larry Bramladge, the on-call vet who is one of the best. She would have went to Rood & Riddle in Lexington. We are so forutnate that Bobby's injury didn't break the skin. THat makes a ton of difference.

RIP Pine Island.

Fleet Indian pulled a suspensory. Not sure if she's planning on retirement, but after this injury, she most likely would have to be. Not life-threatening.

ESNP talking about track surfaces right now. Polytrack has to become mandatory. Keeneland had one breakdown this past meet; that's one too many but much better than past meets.

I here you Marky........

We have to get the slaughter bill passed so we can get back to focusing on track safety. Pine Island showed herself when she broke down today on national television to prove why it needs to be done, even at America's premier track.

One more thing. Pine Island's owners, the Phipps family, is like racings "First Family". If the horse had any chance at all, they WOULD have taken it.

Kim

####
This is why I can't watch racing any longer. In the old days these accidents were rare. I tried to gut it out today and then this happens.
RIP Pine Island
Another gallant warrior.
I hope Churchill Downs will consider the polytrack.

Edgar Prado is a such a fine person, so compassionate. You could see the heartbreak on his face.

Lily the jacksons would not have had Barbaro put down on the track!

Bonnie McGrath, I feel your anger. It just doesn't seem right in a lot of ways. The horses have no choice about running. They do it because they're entered into races, and because they love to run.

Honestly, until today, I had not watched a race live since the BC Distaff when Go For Wand went down. Three horses died during that Breeder's Cup day and it was simply too much for me. Since then I've taped or TiVo'd the races and watched them only if I learned that everybody made it through okay. I didn't actually "see" Barbaro break down in the Preakness. I heard Tom Durkin say he was being pulled up and I immediatley burst into tears.

But following racing since the Preakness, I've kind of lightened up a bit and today I thought it would be okay to watch the races live. I really wish I hadn't. It breaks my heart every time I see one of these valiant horses with so much personality go down, and worse, die.

I'm not into the BC day any more. I think I'll watch later, too.

Pine Island, may you be surrounded by the breath of your horse brothers and sisters. May they breathe and surround you with strength and comfort as they guide you to join the others of who wait in harmony to welcome your spirit. May their wisdom bring you to full awareness now and may they work their magic, bringing you to your safe place among the stars in heaven.

Go in peace, brave filly. And when you are ready, we welcome your guidance and protection for your horse brothers and sisters here on earth.

I had to trun the TV off. Sorry, but who cares about the classic. There is no excitement left for me.

Alex..if they want to save racing, they must stop these injuries! God bless Pine Island and lets makes ure they allow Fleet indian to heal.

We were so lucky with Barbaro!!! I bet the Jackson's are going to contact the familes of Pine island and Fleet Indian.

OMG, how completely horrible ... Those two poor girls, especially Pine Island. Thank God suspensories can usually be coped with, so at least it looks as if Fleet Indian will be okay.

I'm sure I'm not the only one with God for Wand running through my mind right now.

Thank you Laura! This is too brutal, I can't believe Churchill Downs one of the biggest tracks in the country doesn't have polytrack!!! They've had time to do put it in! Such stupidity is beyond me!

#####
LAURA S - it's colostrum, available in health food stores

Yes Pine Islands owners would have DONE ANYTHING TO SAVE HER.. THey are great people..

You have to understand how geared horses are after a race.. Her ankle was dislocated.. and then it fractured.. She was fighting and in a LOT of Pain.. and made it worse.. THere was no hope of saving her, it was NOT repairable. They are saying it was pulverized a nd bone came thru the skin..

They did TRY.. but they were told it was not repairable.. very bad and sad injury..

We were so fortunate Barbaro's injury was somehow, by grace of God and Edgar Prado, contained within the skin. They have no chance on the front leg, bones going into the track dirt.

Thank God these announcers are talking about track safety. Jerry Bailey is the only one who said they can't blame the track, but I know a lot of these guys really like Churchill Downs and probably will resist - they have generally discounted the Keeneland race results as slower and not as valid - but if they all switch, that will take the bias away.

I hope George Washington has his steel leggings on - running on this dirt after turf is scary.

And now, they are staying Fleet Indian will live because her jockey pulled her up - and Castellano is going to be riding again after NOT pulling up Pine Island??? It makes me love Edgar Prado all the more.

On no, it IS a fracture ...

(and obviously, I meant Go for Wandm not God for Wand ... but please God be watching over all the horses left to run today. Keep them safe.)

Can't take this anymore. Think Pine Island's race was the last one I'll ever watch. Thank God she didn't suffer long. May she fly in beauty with the other horse angels! Barbaro, you must get well for us--even more so now.

Peggy NEOhio

There are reasons to put a horse down right away. Having followed Barbaro, we're all aware of blood supply problems, broken skin, all the things he avoided. Barbaro's injury was bad--almost impossible---but it wasn't as bad as Pine Island's.

GODSPEED- PINE ISLAND. MEET WITH GALLANT SECRET AND OUR LOST IN THE FOG. The great ones will all be there to show you the way to the Rainbow Bridge.

Barbaro, sweet one, please, please, get better and heal totally. You MUST!

Pine Island is with good company. How so very sad.
Go For Wand on my mind, too.

Pine Island was being pulled up.. I saw that but she was really fighting him too..

I don't see how they can still alow him to ride Bernadini after that ordeal. He has to be sore and hurting..

Dr. Bramledge just said Fleet Indian also has a fracture but it did not break the skin. She is being stabalized and wiil have surgery in a day or so. also, said surgery right after a race is a bad thing for the recovery because all the horse remembers at that point is that it is racing.

Bless you Amy. Let us all send lots of love to this sweet girl Pine Island, may she be soothed and taken into the care of the devine animal healer.

I don't believe Castellano had a chance to pull Pine Island up from what I saw - she fell immediately - correct me if I did not see something??

Now the vet has said that Fleet Indian has a fracture also but they feel it is not life threatening but will need surgery and screws placed. Candle time for Fleet Indian

When her head went down, he couldn't stay on, and then she went down, too. It was impossible for him to stay on. I think that's true, but I refused to watch the replay, and wish they hadn't shown it twice.

Have they updated yet on Fleet yet?/ all I am finding is that she is being treated and readied to be taken to the Equine hospital. alal the chatter is on Pine island.....

Her owners are very very upset.. Trainer was seen coming out and crying..

Better Talk now.. Safe race please !!

Danielle, He was thrown so he couldnt pull her up, she kept running.

#########
Thanks for the info Katie.

Remember, they said that Barbaro was a model patient? While I grieve for Pine Island, I can't believe how lucky we are with Barbaro!

I hope Fleet Indian will be ok. Her owner seemed like he was just in it for the money.

Last note...Round Pond was great!

Vets are no different from docs for humans--they have tendencies. Often those tendencies reflect levels of skill and willingness to recommend risky courses. So far the only source of information about the degree of injury was the vet who made the decision--of course he justified it.

But I like Silverfoot also. . that is ONE awesome horse, watch him run.. you will be amazed and ask yourself who does he run like?? answer after the race!!

I thought so - I did not realize immediately that there were 2 injured horses when it happened. I was too happy for Round Pond. Nor will I watch a replay - once was more than enough

The right thing to do was to put Pine Island out of her misery, and prevent her further suffering. It was not a thoughtless decision. It was a decision of great courage and acceptance, and had to be made.

God bless the Phipps and all PI's connections right now.

RIP sweetheart. You did your best, and I am proud of you.

Linne: I'm just as bad a mess.......I haven't stopped crying since I saw her go down......I'm afraid to see the rest of the races. I'm literally shaking with emotion.......Fleet Indian is going to require surgery.....another candle for her......

Bittersweet victory for Michael.........he deserves so much more. Edgar's expression will be forever "etched" in my memory. What a tragedy for such a deserved victory......I recorded the breakdown and will have to tape over it.......can't watch it again.

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses".......Fleet Indian really needs our prayers for a positive recovery.

Oh, God, I am in tears and heartbroken again. What a horrible irony. So happy for Michael and Edgar. But how awful for poor Pine Island and Fleet Indian. How very, very, very lucky we were that everything aligned to save our beloved Barbaro. How terribly fragile that luck was. It makes me appreciate his connections even more. And God bless Edgar--the look on his face--the concern and compassion---THAT is a true gentleman.

Dear Pine Island, sweet filly........may angels surround you in heaven. May you be peaceful and happy with so many of your brothers and sisters.

Fleet Indian--we pray for your full recovery.

May the rest travel in safety for the rest of the card today.

Peace,
Kathy from Toledo and the cats

I have started a candle group for Fleet Indian.It is listed under Fleet

Right before Pine fell you could see the jockey trying to pull her back. but it just wasn't so.. when a horses ankle breaks.. they go down.. Good that the outrider got her so quickly also but the damage was done..

Rood & Riddle is a great hospital; quite a few Penn Vet students intern there -- it is one of the premier such facilities in the world.

They should be well placed to help Fleet Indian. It does bring back shades of Go for Wand, but at least it sounds as though she has a good chance.

Very sad about Pine Island, the Phipps horses are always great.

I agree Therese, I knew when they loaded her that was what was going to happen, no tarp for the Breeders Cup, but it was my fear. As soon as they said it was through the skin (compound fracture) it was inevitible. We are lucky we didnt see a dead jockey today.

Barbaro Family: My little (taco bell look alike dog) Brownie is on my lap just trying to lick the tears off of my face. He knows I'm hurting...doesn't know why but he knows.

God bless our "furry" companions.

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

watch silver foot the last part..

This really does bring home how fortunate we've been with Bobby. How much different would things have been if Edgar hadn't been able to get him pulled up till even a few strides later? Or if Michael wasn't the amazing horseman he is; had the colt's handling been different, would he have had the constitution to put up with treatment instead of throwing a fit and hurting himself too badly to be saved? Or what if the injury hadn't happened somewhere they had access to Dr. R?

So many little things (and I know nothing I'm saying is really new) and all of them adding up to Bobby being with us today.

Which horse fell down and rolled over on the video replay??

####
Linnie,
I hear you and feel what you feel. The track vet just said the track footing was excellent and most trainers like it so much they choose to train there. It wasn't the track. I guess we have to think of them as athletes. Sometimes watching an event like football, the conditioned athlete still sustains a horrific injury. Unfortunately the horse athlete runs on instinct as well and you can't convey to them why it is important to stop when injured. Thus the smashed bones and broken skin and infection and loss of blood supply. All because they are born to run. This was Ruffian's problem too.

I don't understand how they can let Bernardini's jockey ride him. That just doesn't make sense.

I can't give up watching these beautiful horses race. I will keep praying that they stay strong and finish safely. I still feel numb though, can't believe we just saw her going to the gate and now she's gone.... Heartbreaking!

Katie - since you seem to have more info than we are getting. Did the 2 breakdowns have anything to do with each other or they both just took missteps at different times? I refuse to watch the reply if they show it but I was just wondering about that

GOD BLESS U PINE ISLAND BEAUTIFUL GIRL, REST IN PEACE AND MAY YOUR OWNERS FIND SOME STRENGTH.

LUV & PRAYERS,
CHERYL G

How can we find out the email address or contact for Pine Island's owners to let them know they are in our thoughts and prayers?

I think Better Talk Now was doing step for step with Red Rocks - he could have won if he had started a touch earlier!!! How happy for Graham Motion.

YAY .. Our Fair Hill gang is cleaning up at the Breeders Cup!!

Better Talk Now - Nice Second!!!

I wonder how gung ho Edgar could have been after the last race - maybe Cacique picked up on his emotions.

I thought I had turned the TV off, but I just went in and saw Better Talk was 2nd. Congrats to Graham on two 2nd place finishes!

Sorry, but somehow it just seems unimportant.

Alex, do you think you could keep us posted on Fleet Indian? She is so beautiful and I worry her owners aren't like the Jacksons.

Congrats to Better Talk Now. Made a good run, just came up a little short. Fair Hill horses making a good show for themselves.

Is Fleet going to go to NBC?? To see Dr R for screws???

Congratulations to Graham Motion and Better Talk Now for their second place finish in the Turf ... this is good news.

But another surprise in Red Rocks taking this race with another good payoff for first place. Not many favorites have won today at all ...

################################################

Jo I'm so sorry for not answering you earlier about your bets and wins ... I didn't realize you were playing with Monopoly money, but even so, a WIN IS A WIN IS A WIN! Congratulations to you!!!!
#################################################

I am still heartsick over what happened in Michael and Edgar's race with Round Pond ... I wanted it to be such a glorious celebration for them ... I hope they can get past the horrible tragedy to Pine Island and the injury to Fleet Indian to be able to savor their wonderful win in the Distaff!!

No Fractures on Fleet Indina.. All soft tissue injury.. GREAT NEWS

Great news on Fleet Indian....

Hey FOB's:
Let's light candles for Pine Island!
Daryl

No break for Fleet. Thank you God.

I had an unfortunately pefect view of Funfair's breakdown at last year's BC; Edgar Prado was aboard and in that instance clearly didn't have a chance to intervene -- it's often down to dumb luck more than anything else in these situations.

Shug Mcgaughey is a great trainer, it's very sad.

At least the news on Fleet Indian is much better.

Better Talk now looked wonderful digging in!

It's hard to concentrate right now, though. The joy has gone out of the day.

I feel so badly for Shug and the Phipps. They can't even talk. I understand that. They are that broken up.

Thank God for the good news for Fleet Indian ... no fracture ... no surgery needed ... all soft tissue with good prognosis for recovery. This was her last race today anyway so her racing career wasn't in jeopardy.

Great news for Fleet Indian ...

Fleet Indian update x-rays show no fractures!!!
Soft tissue injuries. Praise God!!! Let's continue to pray for recovery.

For your courage and bravery Pine Island, a barn pet and barn favorite. Rest in peace

Yes, celebrating the good news on Fleet Indian. And appreciating the kindness of those bringing us news on Pine Island and her people. Deepest sympathies to all involved in her stable. She was loved!

Rest in Peace Pine Island.

A horse runs with their spirit - out of the physical.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby and For All of The Horses

FLEET INDIAN UPDATE:

Jeannine just said NO FRACTURE - soft tissue damage - should not need surgery .

Re. Fleet Indian, at least there's good news there.

RIP Pine Island, sweet girl. May the wind be at your back.

Congratulations to Better Talk Now!

Thank you, God for watching over Fleet Indian. No fractures.

Please watch over all of us in the Barbaro Nation and soothe our tears.

Love,
Sue
xoxo

God bless you Pine Island...you are in good hands now... Lord, please take good care of her for us...

Praise God, Fleet Indian will not need surgery. I'm just so devasated that I can't get into the remaining races......sorry, Barbaro Team......this is something that I didn't want to see again............Prayers to Pine Island's connections who are very, very devastated.

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

Pine's people devastated. Said she had a huge personality, was a barn pet and barn favorite.

The joy has gone out of the day for me also, Jake ... I'm just watching these races in what seems like "slow motion" and "autopilot" ... My adrenaline and energy is sapped completely.

The one thing that will perk me up is if Barbaro becomes a very viable candidate for either 3 year old or Horse of the Year, and the way that we've been getting longer odds 'surprise' winners, nothing that happens in The Classic will surprise me. And please, please, please a SAFE RACE for everyone ... may they all cross the finish line in excellent health and condition.

God, watch over Fleet Indian. Keep her safe in your arms.

Alex--

I feel so badly for the Phipps and McGaughey stables. These folks really do care about their horses. Could we get addresses to send them condolences?

Thanks,

Kathy

Okay, I'm really glad I'm getting my updates here and not at Yahoo!

THEIR racing page is saying that Fleet "suffered a compound fracture in her left front fetlock joint".

Idiots. Chark your flippin' facts!

Congratulations to Graham Motion for his fine showing today!

MERCIFUL GOD, PLEASE HOLD ALL THE CHAMPIONS IN THE CLASSIC IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND. BRING THEM HOME SAFE...NO MATTER HOW SLOWLY.

That last little blurb ESPN just did on Pine Island sent me over the edge again. She was just a baby...2003-2006. And a sweetheart, too.

Such a shame. All kinds of emotion right now. Saddness, anger, disbelief...all in the shadow of a great victory for MM, EP, and little Roundie. The irony of it all astounds me.

Lava Man or George Washington or Perfect Drift - I'd be happy with any of them... And safely, please!

I had to run an errand and was so upset I would miss the Distaff and seeing Round Pond run. The first thing I heard when I got home and tunred on the television was what had happen to Pine Island. I'm so thankful I missed it. Poor baby girl. Though I'm happy for Michael and Edgar.

Oh, I really pray everyone makes it through the Classic safe and sound.

I think Bernadini will find his competition today. I still Love George.. I stick with my predictions

George
Lava Man
Bernadini..

Shelley
I agree with you, those are my three favorites!

Did they just say that if Bernardini wins The Classic, he will be, most likely, 3 year old champion AND Horse of the Year?

OH NO ... THAT'S NOT FAIR ...

###############################################3

I FINALLY GOT TO SEE GEORGE WASHINGTON IN THE FLESH ... NOW I KNOW WHY JO LOVES HIM SO MUCH ...

HE IS ABSOLUTELY MAGNIFICENTLY GORGEOUS! WHAT A HUNKA HUNKA BURNING HORSE! I LOVE HIS COLOR AND THAT STAR/DIAMOND BLAZE DOWN THE FRONT OF HIS FACE IS SHEER PERFECTION.

And so....carry on

Vigil tonight at 7 pm EST for Bobby

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

Rest In Peace, beautiful Pine Island. Run and play with beautiful Ruffian...tears, tears, and more tears.

"Girls can be ruffians too."
Ruffian's owner Barbara Janney

Melissa K. (Phoenix, Arizona)

Belinda - I'm in Mt. Pleasant, glued to the TV and grabbed my laptop when Round Pond won and Pine Island and Fleet Indian went down. Just wanted to be close to the FOB with the roller coaster of emotions we are all experiencing after that race. Would love to hear from you, another FOB right next door...

Mom talked to Mikey right after the race. She remembered he used to be an exercise rider for Shug McGaughey, Pine Island's owner and she knew Mikey would be really shaken. I just can't believe what happened. Mikey, Rochelle and Gracie had to leave right after that race to make their flight back home. Mom said Mikey was really really tired (although to be sure very memorable for him, it was probably too soon for him to take a trip like that). They were just checking in for their flight. Cathy, Mom and I decided not to call again until tomorrow to give him a chance to rest well tonight.

There are pics on the internet (at the Courier Journal - I am not willing to link) - Pine Island did not run on except to get back up- she got up and stood (JV is on ground in the shot) but the pic shows as severe a break as you can imagine...

Like all of you - the races are no longer important - just hoping they all make it back in one piece.

Bless you Pine Island.

Hope George loads ok - ...

Oh, dear Barbaro, the Breeder's Cup is minus your grace and presence, but you're a TRUE legend who lives on with much thanks to Dr. Richardson, the Jacksons and all of US who love and adore you, not to mention God himself. So continue to get well, Big Boy, for soon you'll be back home in familiar confines, with the wind at your back, and glimpses of your shadow amidst the back-drop of the Autumn sunset. Sleep well tonight, fine prince!!

The talk about Lava Man and Bernardini reminds me of the movie "Rocky IV".......Drago trained with elite machinery.....Rocky with rocks and logs.

I'm rooting for Lava Man and Perfect Drift.

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

Hmmmm Alex. .where are you at?? I SWORE I saw you when they panned the crowd.. :) Are you wearing your HAT??

Nancy, please give our best to Mike!

I've been feeling a bit despondent and haven't posted much in the past week or so, but have been keeping up faithfully. I can hardly take what I am reading about Pine Island. Now I'm sitting here, armed with my glass of wine to soothe my nerves, ready to watch this race with my FOBs calling it for me...I'm too chicken to watch it live. I'm hugging my dogs a little more this afternoon...and they are getting annoyed with me. Please God, let these beautiful creatures make it through safely. I don't think I could take another breakdown today.

Oh, God - after listening to the fragile nature of George's personality - I know, Jo, they said he's pretty much over it - but trouble saddling, and now the gate, and then the track - how much can they expect him to do in one day - ?

I guess I can add one other possible winner I would be happy with, Premium Tap, for Edgar...

Could some quick typing soul call the race for me and Sheila, I can't get it live. Thanks!

How much longer to post?

1minute

Drinking wine more vigorously...

Invasor is the winner..............

invasor won

oh my word.Barbaro...

I am undone!

Iove
Iinda a oregon

what a day

Invasor! What do you know?!

Linnie, Sally, janice what did I tell you guys at the track ha ha ha I knew it INVASOR

Wow. That was a race. Congratulations Invasor!

In light of Bernardini not taking it, anyone think this better's Bobby's chances for the HotY?

Who placed & showed?

Alex, you RULE! Sending us updates from Churchill. :-) Now we're counting down, tick tock, tick tock!

1 Invasor
2 Bernardini
3, Premium Tap

Thanks Marky. Was it close?

Sheila, Saw re-play on espn, Invasor came up at the last minute to win, poor Bernardini didn't seem to have a sprint left in him, so it wasn't real close.

yes, It looked like Bernardini all the way..... and then Invasor turned on the extra gears

Well, at least they're all safe and sound...

I think this win by Invasor may also speak well for horses not racing quite a often, as he had a long layoff (even if due to fever), and Barbaro did so well with the longer period between races, as well. Invasor will now be HOY???

Too bad about Discreet Cat - he beat Invasor!

Amen! That's by far the most important thing.

CONGRATULATIONS BARBARO, HORSE OF THE YEAR!!!!!!

2 interpretations Sheila, go with Bonnie's i am more of a donkey expert and am still numb about the breakdown

Wow! An upset... not surprising. Congratulations, Invasor. Nobody on the air picked him. Hee!
Bernardini was beautiful but he just didn't look as confident going in as Saratoga, where I saw him run, with the tough competition. At 3/8 he was clearly not on the mark. All horses did their jobs in the Classic and came home safe, praise God.

THAT was a horse race!!

OK ... MAJOR CONGRATULATIONS TO INVASOR!!! I AM TRULY HAPPY FOR HIM!!!

But why would this one race immediately and automatically catapult him to "Horse of the Year?"

Is his record that great otherwise?

And so, now will Bernardini be 3 year old champion with 2 defeats ... OR will Barbaro be 3 year old champion UNdefeated??????????

Congrats to Invasor.......

Long Live Barbaro......my horse of the year

Barbaro Team: In my 2nd life, I want to be a horses"s groom.......now that's a dream job.

I'm off to take down my Halloween decorations from outside. Don't want to encourage any "late" trick or treaters.

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

Marky, Actually your comment dovetails, or in this case horse-tails with mine. It looked like Bernardini would take it but Invasor invaded!

Gald all of the horses were safe>

Now we know Bernardidni can be beaten and Barbaro would have won the triple crown!

Marky, ditto.

####
Congratulations Michael and Edgar on Round Pond, though bittersweet as it was. You are both the classiest acts in horseracing. Sincerely...

Horse of the Year, hmmmmmmmm looks like it's up for grabs!

Congratulations Barbaro!!!!!

Invasor great job what a race.

Yes, thank God they all returned safe and sound. I had a feeling Bernardini had not really been challenged before today. With all due respect to those of you who are his fans, I felt the best three year old in the country is in Kennett Square, PA.........

BARBARO--CHAMPION IN SO MANY WAYS!

Hope you had a good bath today, Big Boss Hoss. I live for the day we see your sons and daughters run............

Peace,

Kathy from Toledo and the cats

My little tongue flapper came in third

Did Barbaro ever race against Invasor?

Great Race!!!

Bernardini finally had some competition. He never would have beat Barbaro. Bernardini's jockey is a little inexperienced and a little cocky too.

Congratulations to Invasor...

Barbaro is forever and always number 1!

And more congrats to Edgar - he did very well today! But as others said, we will never forget that look on his face as he heard about Pine Island and looked back. A sad moment detracting from what should have been a proud and deserved happy one... In fact, when I look at his face compared to other jockeys, it seems to have a look of ages and wisdom to it, with a little underlay of sadness. He has seen it all, and has a huge heart.

And GEORGE !!! He did GOOD !!! 6th place will ensure him a huge demand for both turf and dirt stud duties, I would bet... AND he won't have to go into any more of those nasty starting gates...

I guess Lava Man is just a California kid. He can stay here with us, we love him.

The meet is all over except the talking and what-if's. I am so, so grateful there were no more tragedies. The joy left the track with those two beautiful fillies.

The Classic was amazing. How about Giacomo, coming up from dead last to fourth? Brother Derek held his own very well, too. I wish Lava Man had had a better finish, but I liked what his owners said about all he's given them. Lava Man has nice connections.

Well Bobby, they didn't say much about you today, but you were definitely the elephant in the room. Watching the Classic, I kept picturing you in there, making your signature move. You didn't run in the Classic today, but you run a classic every day and you have taken championship to a new level.

Susan E., I can't help but wonder whether ESPN had planned to run a story on Barbaro, and decided not to run it after the tragedy in the Distaff. That might also have cut into the time they had planned. I don't know, but I kept wondering.

I didn't see the race with Pine Island. Was Edgar on board? I hope not.

Awesome Race! Awesome day! Now I'm goin' for the wine! Thanks all for keeping me company through this day...

Chris, I plan to read Mike your comment on his blog and bring him up to date on everything going on with his petition, etc! Mike and Tammy did not win the White Horse Award. The man who had saved the lives of two children from a burning car did. As much as we all love horses, saving a fellow human being, a child, certainly deserves the honor – don’t you think? Mom spoke with Mike late yesterday afternoon. She could tell he was really tired because his words slur so badly when he is. What touched us so deeply though, was not that he was sorry they didn’t win…he recognized the honor of being nominated….but how “out of place” he told her he felt. This is the first time Mikey has visited a race track since his accident and he told Mom that being there, being pushed around in a wheelchair and so dependent on others, really made him feel sad. I know he'll feel better, gets some rest, and begins his out patient therapy. Cathy will be home tomorrow and have computer access again. She'll be updating his blog as only she can, with her love and devotion to her brother shining through!

Amy, I thought the same thing, that it would have presented a dark picture to talk about B and his injury after what happened.

After becoming so close to Barbaro I am glad he isn't racing anymore.

Invasor - he is the best! As Kenny Mayne would say.

A beautiful race by Invasor. He will be HOY now.

I still think Bernardini's a freak, but had a bad day and met great competition in Invasor, who, on paper, was the only horse who could beat him. If Bernardini had won today, he would have been top three-year-old and HOY.

This opens the door now for Barbaro and Bernardini to do battle for Three Year Old honors. Both won six races (if I recall that correctly).

I don't envy the voters this one.

By the time the Classic came on, I was like Linnie - on autopilot. A good way to put it. I really did think that Bernardini would win by open lengths.

But Invasor -- he is great!

Pine Island, to you and your family, we mourn your loss, dear one. You were such a brilliant horse and love by many. So very sorry this had to happen to you.

Love,
Daphne

Pine Island was a great-great grandaughter of Alydar. The Thoroughbred Database already shows that she was euthanized. It's so sad, I pray Fleet will be all right.

Patti, No Edgar was on Premium Tap in that last race, he came in 3rd, very respectful!

Bonnie, I echo your sentiments. As upset as I am over Pine Island, can you even imagine how we would feel every time our boy went into the gate? It would be just way too much for me to take. I am sure that Pine Island's people are feeling a horrible loss right now...it makes me cry all over again. All of these creatures are special...and we should celebrate them all regardless of their racing record. God Bless Pine Island.

Don't forget.....

Debra WI's horse Bond Beauty is running tonight in the 8th race at Hoosier Park.

Good luck and safe trip to Bond Beauty!!!!

Overall, the end result for me is feeling sad. I
watched Pine Island over the summer and she was such a game, gutsy filly. Rest in peace.

I am glad Invasor won--this opens the door for my
dearest Barbaro for 3 yr old of the year.

Just overall this day was too upsetting for me.

And again, Congratulations to Edgar for a great showing on Premium Tap coming in the money on another long shot!!!

#############################################33

BUT the searing question in my mind now is this:

Is Bernardini the "odds-on-choice" for 3 year old? Or does this really open the door WIDE for our beloved Bobby?

Just very very curious ...

YEA, RAH CONGRATS TO MY INVASOR!! :>)

HAVE A GREAT EVENING EVERYONE,

LUV & PRAYERS TO ALL, ESPECIALLY PINE ISLAND'S LOVED ONES.

CHERYL G

Never heard what the time was in the Classic - fast, slow? anyone know?

Patti,

No, Edgar was not on Pine Island. He was, however, on the winner - Round Pond, Michael Matz' trained filly from Fair Hill. What was very sad was this was a field of very good fillies, and to have Edgar and Michael win was awesome, but after Edgar crossed the finish line the pony rider told him what happened to Pine Island back down the track, and he, instead of looking jubilant as he could have, he turned back several times to look down the track, and his face was a picture of sadness and concern. That picture is what we will remember, just like the other scenes we remember from the Preakness of his face. I am sure he doesn't deserve this.

#####

Sweet Barbaro article....

Barbaro trainer at Cup with anotherBy DICK JERARDI
jerardd@phillynews.com
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - During the first week of May, Michael Matz, normally a reticent man, got more confident as each day passed. Barbaro, he kept saying, was growing up before his eyes. By the day of the Kentucky Derby, Matz was as confident as a horse trainer can ever be in a sport in which nothing is ever quite as it seems.

As high as Matz's expectations were, Barbaro exceeded them. The colt won the Derby by the biggest margin in 60 years. After the wire, Barbaro kept increasing his margin. The colt just kept running and running and running. By the first turn, he was 20 lengths in front of the second horse.

It simply was one of the great performances in the history of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby. When Matz left town to head home for Pennsylvania, he had every reason to think he would be back on the first Saturday in November to send Barbaro to that same starting gate at the head of the Downs stretch to run that same mile and a quarter he had scorched in the Derby.

That story took a detour in the Preakness and now plays out at the New Bolton Center in Kennett Square. The ending is still uncertain. Next week, the cast is probably coming off the right rear leg Barbaro shattered in the Preakness. His left rear hoof, however, is still months from growing back after almost all of it was cut away in July.

Matz, however, is here at Churchill Downs for today's Breeders' Cup. He is here with Round Pond, a horse not even in his stable last May. She will run in the $2 million Distaff. The $5 million Classic will go on without Barbaro.

Memories?

"They're all good," Matz said.

"I see Barbaro every day when I'm at home," said Matz, whose farm is a few miles from New Bolton. "He lost a lot of weight from the operations, but he has gotten most of that back."

When asked how good Barbaro really was, Matz gets a faraway look in his eyes and grows wistful.

"He never did anything wrong," the trainer said. "Obviously, I would have loved to have been here with him. The public would love to have him here also."

Matz has never really been comfortable in the limelight. He would prefer to remain in the shadows. But, like his horse of a lifetime, Matz has remained classy throughout.

Round Pond, he said, will run her best since she came to his barn last summer. Even that probably won't be good enough in a very strong field.

Whatever happens in that race, you know Matz will be thinking about what might have gone down if Barbaro were in the gate with Bernardini, Lava Man and Invasor this afternoon.

"The support has been overwhelming," Matz said.

In fact, one could make the argument Barbaro has become a larger icon in the hospital than he would have become had he won the Triple Crown. Still, Michael Matz (and the rest of us) will always wonder: What if?

Bernardini, you ran your heart out and I'm so sorry you didn't win the race as I really feel you deserved to win. You are my champion, my winner and of couse, so is our very special Barbaro.

Daphne

Bonnie,

I did see Edgar on Premium Tap. I was hoping that he would win for Barbaro. 3rd was very respectable. Didn't Edgar have other mounts earlier?

Edgar is a class act. He feels deeply for horses, and he has a great deal of compassion. I remember when he rode Birdstone to victory in the Belmont, putting an end to Smarty's Triple Crown, he was devastated, and crying. He hated to spoil the Triple Crown, but he had to ride his race. And the owner, Mary Lou Whitney, said the same thing.

There are a lot of classy people in horseracing, and Phipps are among the best and believe me, they would have done anything to save Pine Island if she could have been saved.

I don't think Javier Castellano is cocky. He believes in his horse. He is proud of his horse. Jockey's are like that. The good ones invest a lot in the horses they ride. Also, he couldn't help but have been shaken to the core (and grieving) after Pine Island broke down. I imagine he's blaming himself for not being able to stop her--but anyone could see it was impossible. He could not stay on.

Linnie: Sounded like it was for TV - out June 2007....

Had tears in my eyes watching the trailer....

Posted by: Lisa Leach at November 4, 2006 7:14 PM

####################################################

Oh a TV movie about Ruffian .... SHE DESERVES NOTHING LESS THAN A "REAL" MOVIE WHERE PEOPLE HAVE TO PAY TO SEE IT!!

And don't forget Shelley A's horse, MR. BOXCAR, is racing tomorrow at Philadelphia Park! May he come in, first, safely, and happy...

Barbaro horse of the year? Are you for real?

Invasor won FOUR STRAIGHT GRADE 1's to finish off the year. If Ghostzapper won HOW with 4 races, Invasor for sure will too. This race makes Discreet Cat look very good.

Bernardini still gets the 3yo championship sorry to say. It's a What have you done for me lately kind of world, sadly.

My only wish is that the sheikh will run Bernardini next year. Now he has something to prove. I hate the thought of him going off to stud next year.

Jake, you're right. Was just listening to the vet talk, and he said the difference between Fleet Indian's injury and Pine Island's was that Pine Island hadn't been pulled up.

ESPN still on Breeder's Cup at the moment, on Sports Center... with recaps, if any body still around after football stuff.

EVERYBODY GO TO ESPN AND VOTE FOR HORSE OF THE YEAR:

BARBARO
BERNARDINI
INVASOR

According to the ESPN vote - Barbaro has horse of the year hands down!!!!

Such mixed emotions...overjoyed for Michael, Edgar and Round Pond...absolutely devastated for Pine Island. My heart goes out to all of her connections and I pray that Fleet Indian will be all right and will fully recover.

God bless you, Pine Island. Look for the Fog. He'll be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge and will take you home to Heaven's perfect pastures. Rest in peace beautiful girl. So very, very sad.

Fleet Island, please recover quickly.

Invasor, congratulations!!

This is a sad day.

Daphne

Ryan, if you're responding to my post, I didn't say HOY for Barbaro. I said champion three-year-old might now be up in the air. HOY now belongs to Invasor.

PLEASE GO TO ESPN>COM AND VOTE FOR BARBARO _ RIGHT NOW HE IS TOTALLY WINNING !!!!

espn.com

Oh, you were responding to the poll. Sorry, Ryan.

GO TO ESPN.COM RIGHT NOW ...

THEY HAVE A POLL FOR HORSE OF THE YEAR:

BERNARDINI
BARBARO
INVASOR

I DON'T NEED TO TELL YOU WHO TO VOTE FOR ....

TOO IMPATIENT TO LINK IT .... GO VOTE NOW!!

####
I'm with Linnie. Ruffian's story deserves a theatrical movie and nothing less.

What an emotional draining day this has been. Pine Island will be sorely missed by her family. Her personality made her the barn favorite.

I can't even remember seeing Round Pond's victory, which is so sad because I am such a fan of her and Rick Porter. There will always be a cloud over her victory in the Distaff even though she deserved it.

Thanks for the clarification Shelley. That must have terrible for Edgar. I wish he could have enjoyed his victory more, he so deserved it. Congratulations to Edgar and Michael, bittersweet as it may be.

VOTE FOR BOBBY AT ESPN.COM FOR HORSE OF THE YEAR !!!!

Sadness in the midst of the jubilation - that was the Breeder's Cup. I was hoping that ALL the horses would have crossed the finish line in good condition. To have lost one and another injured is just too heartbreaking.

Congrats to MM,& Edgar with Round Pond. I believe one of the announcers mentioned the Barbaro connection.

Ivasor was pretty impressive. Too bad Lava Man didn't do better and I would have liked to see George finish closer to the front too.

ESPN has a poll right now re: horse of the year. Now is our chance to vote for Bobby - he is one of the contenders.

Janice
Proud to be a "fan of Barbaro"

I would vote for Barbaro for Horse of the World, Horse of the Gods, Horse of the Millenium, Horse from Heaven, Most Inspiring Horse, Horse Who Made the Most Difference, but I Horse of the Year should go to Invasor.

Thanks Chris, voted. Barbaro's got my vote. He is the horse of the century...

Hi, FOB's!

Am catching up on the posts - and am heartbroken to read about Pine Island. Yes, I know LITF, St. Liam, Gallant Secret, Ruffian (the great) and Secretariat meet her quickly. From what you all are saying, her injuries were too severe. I can't believe what happened and my heart goes out to her connections. If anybody can get her connections' address, please email it to me at lyn.gilbert@gmail.com.

What is the latest on Fleet Indian?

Its just not fair. When Sherry VW, Marshall and I were at Delaware Park race track, I was looking at the horses and thinking to myself how small their ankles are to carry their bodies on the track. It was hard for me to watch the races and was praying during all of them. I confess its hard for me to watch them race because they are all so beautiful to me.

I am happy for Michael Matz and Edgar - but what a bittersweet day.

####
Surprised "the boys" today - was up in the area and went to see them and boy were they ever happy to see me. Stormy was talking and Windy wanted attention - but it seems the ladies are now insisting that THEY have time with me...girl time, I guess. I'll figure out a way to have time with the boys. They are all sweethearts. Was talking with a lady who teaches Celtic Shamanism and I bought a beautiful stone with a picture of a horse on it - she felt I should have it and the price was right.

Gotta go - am chatting with my son - the light of my life...:)

Prayers are with all of you and with Pine Island and her connections. Anybody know of any pics of her? I want to see what she looks like - to etch her in my memory.

Healing, Love, Peace (and tears for Pine Island),
Lyn Gilbert

Not only is Barbaro winning the poll re: Horse of the Year - he is winning BIG. I don't suppose that counts for anything though, we don't get to choose that honor.

Janice
Proud to be a "fan of Barbaro"

J.Carson Black- I too wondered if this would change things with Champion 3 year Old.

Ashley

HELP!!! I POSTED ABOUT THE POLL AND I CAN'T EVEN FIND THE DAMN LINK TO VOTE FOR BOBBY ..

WILL SOMEONE PLEASE PUT THE DIRECT LINK HERE!!!!

THANK YOU SO MUCH ....

***Alex***, thank you for the updates today. I'm very glad you were there!!

Jerry Bailey said the same thing you did about Castellano starting his move prematurely. Bernardini deserved better.. oh well...

Daphne

There are some beautiful photos of Round Pond and Edgar Prado winning the Distaff at the Louisville Courier-Journal website. There are 21 photos in all, including several of Pine Island, so be careful. There is one beautiful picture of her, standing after the fall, with Javier in a ball on the ground. She has such a look of grace, I wonder if she wasn't already an angel.

That photo could be a poster for track safety.

##

Amy L., yes, I was wondering about that as well. I think ESPN handled the tragedy with compassion and good taste--as much as one can in such a situation.

Don't know what the track condition was today and how different it was from the Kentucky Derby, but our Bobby did cover the same distance faster.....

I see 67% of the almost 4,000 people polled pick Barbaro for horse of the year. Bernardini, second and Invasor, third.

They're replaying all races now on ESPN -

Pine Island, rest in peace sweet one. You are now among so many other great ones. Also, you are now being met by all the horses lost to the slaughter houses. They too, are great. They may not have won money at the track, or ribbons for shows, but all of them are just as loved, and wonderful.

Rest awhile when you first get to the bridge, I'm sure you are tired right now. Then, eat some beautiful green grass, munch on the carrots I'm sure are abundant there. Or if peppermints or apples are your favorites, I'm sure a gentle angel is ready and waiting to share some with you.

Then....run, romp and play with your new found friends and sleep a peaceful sleep under the heavenly skies tonight, preparing for another wonderful day. The heavens are now brighter with you there.

Drinking wine more vigorously...

Posted by: Sheila at November 4, 2006 10:33 PM

I know the feeling, Sheila ... I just hope it's Red Red Wine ... so very good for your body!!

Thank you, Skyler... beautiful.

Go to ESPN and on the right hand side of the page you will find the poll for Barbaro and HOY

PINE ISLAND,
Happy horse,
Friendly girl,
Dark beauty,
Bright Star,
Sweet soul,
...goodbye

I think Castellano was in shock. I know physically he was all right, but he must already have felt guilt about not being able to save Pine Island. In retrospect, I wish Albertrani had put Franki Dettori up on Bernardini. I know that would have been hard, but Frankie strikes me as a self-involved guy who wouldn't dwell on the tragedy and would have probably ridden Bernardini differently.

Or, it could be that Bernardini just didn't have it today. It happens.

I hope the Sheikh will now run Bernardini next year, rather than retiring him to stud. If he wants to prove the horse is great, he'll have to do that.

On this bittersweet day, I must offer congratulations to my hero, Edgar Prado....he had 7 rides - 1 win, 1 place, and 3 shows...a most respectable day indeed! I was especially pleased with his show in the Classic with the long-odds floppy-tongued Premium Tap. And his ride on Round Pond (despite the tragedy of that race) was perfectly placed for an upset win....

Very sorry about Bernardini...maybe his jockey's spill rattled his cage more than he realized? But I was close with my bet - had picked Invasor to place, not Lava Man...

http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061104/SPORTS0802/61104034

Pine Island fall, and you can see her leg is broken.

Some one make it blue.

Good Night Family
Alex...Hope you put a "ton" of $ on Round Pond....M. Matz' team deserve the BEST of the Best!!!!

Barbaro HORSE OF THE YEAR and UNDEFEATED CHAMPION in my book!!!!! There is no doubt in my mind about the outcomes of all the races between you and any other horse this year!!!

Sleep well my shiny, squeeky clean,studmuffin. Heal Hoof ...grow straight and solid!!! I hear Mocha voted on espn.com for you to be horse of the year...she said,"... year???Every day and ...night of the year...lol".

Jo (UK) George WAS gorgeous...came in 6th ...not too bad for first time on dirt and in foreign country....he had a lot to overcome...but Jo he is beautiful....and will make great babies...Now pray the trip back to UK is safe and sound for him. Did I imagine it or did Kinane hold him back too long???It looked like it as they were almost rounding to home stretch??

Special prayers go out to Linda H. Pray you are feeling better?????

Also Prayers to Pine Island's folks...my heat sank when I saw the horse go down and roll...you want to reach right through the TV screen and help them.....These are the times that I don't like horse racing....my blood pressure is still up there !!!

Night to all of my family...Bless you guys!!!!

ESPN Horse of the Year Vote - link below... FOB, here's our chance to vote, and check out the cool state by state stats. Click, then scroll down, lower right column. Since I voted, Barbaro lost 2%, Bernardini lost 1%, and Invasor gained 2%.

ESPN HORSE OF THE YEAR ONLINE VOTE



Current vote:
Barbaro 65%

Bernardini 18%

Invasor 16%


####Sally in KW -- So you were one of the FL voters :)

Just looked at the pictures of Pine Lawn on the Louisville paper website, and it is clear from the picture after the breakdown that Pine Islands leg is hopeless - it's twisted badly. I am crying for her...wish I hadn't looked but in a way I feel a little better because from the way her leg looks, it really does look hopeless.

Linnie - starting on the red, began with the white though. Now I'm rationalizing that I'm doing something healthy for myself...

Red is good. Wish I'd had some when I saw Pine Island fall.

Now I hear that fat rats don't suffer the effects of their obesity if they are hit with huge amounts of red wine.

After this awful day, I feel like a big fat rat.

Vigil for Barbaro in 10 minutes - he needs our prayers and focus now. He could be going into this week with a cast change and general anesthesia.

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

Magnificent Steed! Another day closer. We hold the vision of your wholeness - you are perfect and complete - in vibrant good health.

The Light of God surrounds you
The Love of God enfolds you
The Power of God Protects you
The Presence of God watches over you
Wherever you are Bobby, God IS.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

Jake....:) :) I'm right with you...
I have to do something to bring my blood pressure down!!!lol

When we pray for Barbaro, and focus on his physical healing, I humbly ask you to include prayers for his peace of mind and continued courage. His is a difficult path.

Thank you God, that right and perfect decisions are made by Barbaro, and for Barbaro.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

wow, some interesting races.
Pine Island's demise is hard to take. They always are. I'm wondering if Castellano was more shaken up than he knew and that affected his ride on Bernardini.

Funnily enough, in my first ever foray into wagering on horses, the ones I actually won were on Dreaming of Anna (for no other reason than her name- I missed the actual race), and Round Pond and Better Talk Now.

Interesting experiment. Not sure whether I'll do that again or not, but I didn't lose much.

####
Skyler such a beautiful thought, I haven't seen anything, when did Pine Island get injured and how?

What happened in the race with Bernardini? Who won that race, I have been able to tell he didn't from the posts but to much in a hurry to read all.

Someone please recap!!!

Karen M. Dallas, Texas

Thank you Mary S.

A good reminder that this is an especially important week for Barbaro. Let's pray all goes well for him.

I love your prayers Mary, and after the tragedy of today, your words help.

I still dont see where you vote on Espn for horse of the year...What is the headline???

I'm lost

Leslie in mn

Wasn't it Pine Island who was balking at going into the starting gate?...or was it another horse?

If so, perhaps she sensed danger, or was already hurting, and was trying to tell "us" something...trying to tell us that she did not want to go. What a heart- break...what a tragedy.

Did anyone else notice how much she resembled Ruffian...with her dark satiny coat, little white star, and tall leggy stature ?

I wish that I had not flashed on that as she entered the gate.

Today, she was simply meant for heaven.

They're doing Lava Man's background on ESPN now...

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/breederscup06/news/story?id=2649541

ESPN video of Round Pond win.

Hay there FFOBs and Horse Lovers Everywhere.

Thank you Nancy in CT for the name of that tummy stuff! I have irritable bowel syndrome, and at one time had pyloric stenosis, which had to be opened by balloon endoscopy. Maybe the colostrum will help prevent a recurrence. I'll get some, and try it at my next opportunity.

So sorry to hear about the terrible accident to Pine Island in the Breeders' Cup. It sounded to me like she fought her helpers because she was in such horrific pain. Dogs have been known to bite people who tried to help them after they were badly injured in accidents. I'm so sorry they had to put her down but you can all rest assured that PI is no longer suffering in such great pain. It sounds like they did try do do whatever the could for her. She is now free to run and play among her fellow spirits. Rest In Peace, Pine Island! You may be gone but will not be forgotten!

Rosemary in NE Ohio, you are right about the fact that even well-conditioned trained human athletes can have horrific injuries. Our professional football team, the Seattle Seahawks, temporarily lost their 2 star players, Matt Hasselbeck and Shaun Alexander. Matt tore a ligament in one of his knees; Shaun, thinking he had a bruised foot, continued playing on it, making matters worse, and causing the foot to be broken. Both players will be out for a while, and this is affecting how our Hawks are playing. So be it man or horse, all great athletes are very subject to injuries of all kinds; it's an occupational hazard of being a pro athlete.

Well I gotta sign off soon, we are presently having a cold front coming through, with heavy rain and winds of 20-30 MPH, with gusts up to 50 MPH, danger of power going out, even with underground utilities! Keep me posted on Gift's progress, and wish me luck with this storm! I hate it when the wind blows and kills the power!

Best to all everywhere from Laura S. in Washington State.

Karen, she fell in the distaff and severely broke her left front leg.

Debbie in LA put a link to the article describing her injury on timestamp 11:41pm

Skyler - I am sorry I had no words for today....none - just numb - I worked with her - but it was too late - I'm sorry. Thank you for your comforting and beautiful statement for Pine Island. God Bless them all.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

First of all my sincere condolences to Ogden Phipps connections on the loss of Pine Island. The announcers said that she was really something special to them. I know they are devastated. I was so upset when I saw what happened to her. Rest in Peace Pine Island and may god bless you.

Next, a big congrats to Michael Matz and Edgar Prado on Round Ponds win. Outstanding ride for Edgar. You guys really deserve it. I saw how upset Edgar was when he saw what happened to the horses. He is a true sportsman and friend of horses.

I have to say I have been watching horse racing for over 30 years and I've always been upset to see a horse go down. Since I started owning them though, every breakdown really hits home. I've come to know horses and love them very much and it really breaks my heart when something like this happens to one of them.

I need to ask a favor of you guys. My little girl Ambling Rose(Rosie) is scheduled to make her debut this Tuesday at the Meadowlands. Please say a prayer for her that she has a safe trip home. Thanks

And last but certainly not least, to the big guy: How you doing sweet Bobby? You be good for every one. You're doing great and you are an inspiration to all. Remember my friend, baby steps lead the way home. Love ya, Lorraine

##

Otherlyn, I too noticed the similarity to Ruffian immediately when I looked at her picture. It actually took my breath away when I saw her face.

Ruffian will be the first to meet her at the bridge....

Bernardini still gets the 3yo championship sorry to say. It's a What have you done for me lately kind of world, sadly.

Posted by: Ryan at November 4, 2006 11:08 PM
################################################33

Respectfully, Ryan, could NOT DISAGREE with you more. I have faith in the people who vote for this award ... and if they want to know what Barbaro has done for them lately, all they need to do is a "Google" search on Barbaro ... all the answers lie therein!

PERIOD!

Thanks of the blue to ESPN
I voted for Barbaro

Totals right now on
ESPN who should win horse of the year

Barbaro 65%
Bernardini 18%
Invasor 13%

Go vote, try to get your mine off of things!

Vigil time for Barbaro.

I love you Bobby.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

Hello everyone,

I haven't posted in a very long time. I've still been checking Alex's updates but life has been rough lately.

My heart goes out to Pine Island. I walked in from the barn and turned on the Breeder's Cup in time to hear she was put down. I hope more tracks go to Polytrack.

By the way I voted for Barbaro for HOY. No one beats Barbaro!

I had picked the exacta of Round Pond and Asi Siempre...but then he got disqualified. I still had a straight play on Round Pond to win so that was ok. But after that race.....I had to leave the track and go home. Too much sorrow in that race. MM and Edgar were once again standing in the shadows of glory and of pain....and so was I.

Leslie in MN

JUST VOTED FOR HORSE OF THE YEAR, EVERYONE VOTE-
BARBARO IS WINNING!! DO YA ALL THINK HE REALLY COULD WIN HORSE OF THE YEAR??? HM?? THAT WOULD BE AWESOME, I DO LOVE INVASOR, BUT NO ONE WILL EVER TAKE BARBARO'S PLACE!!

LUV & PRAYERS FOR BARBARO & PINE ISLAND,
CHERYL G

http://espn.go.com/

####

The Louisville Courier has 22 pictures of the Distaff, but if you are squemish do not look at the ones of Pine Island. Her leg is so badly mangled and the bone is showing. Just terrible. I thought Barbaro's injury was hard to look at, nothing like this. Pine Island's photos are very much like Ruffian standing on the backstretch so many years ago. What makes them winners is the very thing that ends their lives.

As aweful as what happenend to Pine is as least we know she was very much loved and had the very best of everything. She didn't spend her last day on a slaughter truck or at a slaughter house. She spent it doing what she loved to do and was born to do. She had her loving people with her when she received the injection.

Red is good. Wish I'd had some when I saw Pine Island fall.

Now I hear that fat rats don't suffer the effects of their obesity if they are hit with huge amounts of red wine.

After this awful day, I feel like a big fat rat.

Posted by: J. Carson Black at November 4, 2006 11:44 PM

#################################################
Jake ...

That's not quite right ... obese rats who were ALSO suffering from other diseases were given mass amounts of red wine. The results were that they were still obese BUT they were healed of their other maladies.

HAIL TO RED, RED WINE! And yes, Neil Diamond has also written a song about "Red Red Wine!!"

Love him!!

Hi Everyone!

Just lit a candle for Our Boy!
Also lit one for Pine Island, my she RIP.

Voted for Barbaro on ESPN, he has 65% of the votes so far. Go Bobby!

Ro & Brady

I love red wine. I am having bourbon now but I will have my red wine next.
Not driving.

Thanks of the blue to ESPN
I voted for Barbaro

Totals right now on
ESPN who should win horse of the year

Barbaro 65%
Bernardini 18%
Invasor 13%

Go vote, try to get your mine off of things!

Posted by: Debbie L.A. at November 4, 2006 11:59 PM

I can't find this ... can somebody please help me find the direct link on the site ... I just don't see it ... will someone pleae post the link to this specific question .... I can get to espn.com but I don't see this poll or question and I am about ready to take my computer and throw it out of my window!!

Love Neil Diamond but I am more into a Gordon Lightfoot mood tonight.

I'm drinking red wine right this very minute

Dear Barbaro - you deserve horse of the year more than any other. Your race to survive and your courage cannot ever be compared. Soldier On.

Congradualtions to Invasor, and sad for Bernardini, but, his jockey needs to take some empathy lessons from jockeys like Edgar who are concerned with the horse as well. Maybe this was a way of sending a message to him. My heart was with Lava Man.

Bless you Pine Island and all who have met their fate on the track. In that one picture, you were such a mirror image of Ruffian - broken but, always beautiful. She fought - like you in the end - I'm sure you will be the best of friends.

Bless them all and Keep them

Hi all!
What a hard day......
I just voted for Barbaro- Horse of the Year!!!
My heart goes out to Pine Island's connections
Congrats to Michael & Edgar! Two class acts!
Take care Barbaro nation..
We are so lucky...so lucky
I want to see a new picture of Barbaro tonight.....
jan

OK - I just have to say it - I'm amazed, just really amazed - its Bobby's vigil! I think I know how Linnie felt when she thought we should be in vigil for Linda and lots of babble going on instead. I don't give a damn what you guys are drinking

ME EITHER LINNIE!!! is it some sort of pop up thingie or something??? Maybe my computer is blocking it??? I've had some red wine tonight too but still!!! It's just not there!!

Leslie in MN

Dear FOB's,

If any of us are not able to call or E-mail the Senate, and the committee during the week, as we continue our efforts to stop horse slaughter, PLEASE try to find some time to do so tonight or tomorrow. Most of the Senators have voicemail, and E-mail will always get through.

Wouldn't it have been nice if the Breeders Cup coverage on ESPN or on the HRTV channels had run some sort of PSA on the horse slaughter issue?

They took some time to air a "helpful" piece on Invasor's trainer's MS, which was nice...but they totally missed the chance to do some GOOD for horses...the very heart of the BC.

(sigh)...for all of the excitement of the weeks leading to the big race, even with the outstanding horses running this year, right now, the energy seems so sad.

I AM happy for all of the winners...but, true "joy" is elusive tonight.

Sweet Barbaro, thank you for being our anchor...sleep well and in peaceful safety. You are our joy, Dear Boy. You are our CHAMPION in all that you are, and all that you have accomplished, and in all of the victories that will come for your sake.

Just was looking at my favorite picture of Peter training Bobby where Bobby has that Michael Flatley thing goin on with mussed hair, thin leather forhead strap and flaring nostrils. I have his winning Kentucky Derby ticket with it. Hubby wanted to cash it. I asked hubby if he wanted a divorce.

####
Shelley in Ca,
I read your post to Patti and I don't think I will ever forget the look on Edgar's face when he was told about the accidents. His "look" was the same as it was at the Preakness. He is such as caring man. I can only imagine the flood of feelings that came over him when he realized what happened. I know that everyone handles tragedies differently, but it seemed like Javier was more concerned with riding Bernardini, which I don't think was a good idea, than concern for Pine Island. I will only say Edgar's concern seemed truly genuine when juxtaposed with Javier.

The irony here is now Michael and Edgar know the feeling of "What ifs" that Bernardini's team must have felt after Barbaro's injury. Michael and Edgar know both sides of issue, What if Barbaro didn't injure himself and what if Fleet Indian and Pine Island didn't injure themselves. Michael and Edgar have truly gone through the wringer this year. And they still stand with grace and poise and character.

Jay Cronly of ESPN has a blog about today's races, and here are his final thoughts which I thought interesting and succinct:

===============================================

Did we learn anything from this year's Breeders' Cup races?

Maybe this:

Once a horse has fallen, you watch the remainder of the races with an eye on the field as a whole, your teeth clenched, hoping to see all the heads bobbing along evenly the rest of the way around.

Hit one Breeders' Cup Exacta, any Breeders' Cup Exacta, and you win money for the day.

There is a notable absence of women jockeys at the top level.

If they wanted to shave off a few minutes between Breeders' Cup races, it would be all right by me.

The case for artificial dirt will be advanced.

=============================================

No doubt, overall, the tragedy will be what we remember. Last year, I don't know that the comments on track safety would have been so loud. That is Barbaro's legacy...

###
Otherlyn,

There was a huge two page spread in todays Daily Racing Form for EndHorseSlaughter.com.

It was very very good and I was delighted to see this right smack dab in the center of the the DFR.

At least thats something...

Leslie IN MN

Edgar Prado is a classy, caring gentleman. He came from very humble beginnings and now is so famous but he is still the same wonderful person. Horse racing is blessed to have him in the sport. You can't buy class.

I found this posted about Pine:

Update on Pine Island: Shortly after being taken to the vet barn, Pine Island was euthanized. She sustained too much soft tissue damage along with the multiple fractures to her ankle and bone above it.it was an open fracture-dislocation of Pine Island's left front fetlock

Dr. Bramlage reported that there was no way to restore circulation to her leg because of the severity of the injury. It's a bad bad day for the Phipps Stable and Trainer Shug McGaughey.

**********FYI**************

There is a group candle set up for Pine Island at gratefuleness.org ("Pine")

Let's lite her way.

Please,everyone, go lite a candle for her.

Update on Fleet Indian: Fleet Indian has sustained only soft tissue injuries, straining her suspensory ligament. Had she kept running, she'd have ended up with fractures too. Pine Island wouldn't quit running, even on three legs, until she fell.

Everyone handles things differently, but I remember after the Preakness I didn't care for the lack of concern for Barbaro that I felt Javier showed. I know that's not the case and that of course he cares, it's just the way it comes across on camera.

Ashley

Laura in Key West,

Yes, I do remember you picked Invasor. Congratulations! Did you put money on him too?
I hope so!

Janice

Proud to be a "fan of Barbaro

Today I learned something....

I don't like horse racing.

I love the horses too much.

I'm done with it.

####
Mary S.
Please don't be so upset with people tonight. Today was a very disturbing day for many. I light a candle at seven, but I hold Barbaro in my heart always, not just at a certain time. Today I had a running prayer with God about my gratefulness for all the good that has happened to Barbaro recently. Every picture, word, phrase, poem or prayer I read on this site turns into my vigil for Barbaro. I really don't think Barbaro is ever out of an FOB's mind and heart.

Mary, you and your beautiful words are who I turn to for gentle strength. Please don't be upset. People really do care.

####
Therese,

I know what you mean. It's too painful. Like Shelley in CA said, "No doubt, overall, the tragedy will be what we remember."

I'm having a hard time with it.

####

Linnie,
Go to www.espn.com then scroll down the right til you see the poll.

If the HOY poll is what it is you are looking for.

####

If you are on the page with Classic Upset and picture of Invasor, that is the page. Look to the right and scroll down to ESPN Sport's Nation
The poll is there.

Theresa, I understand how you feel. maybe we all could do with some words of wisdom and encouragement from Alex right now. He works so hard with this web site getting all those interviews and giving us all the great pieces of information on the sport itself. I now know so much more. I used to only watch the triple crown races and i would have the Breeders Cup on while I did other things but now I watch all the other races and today I was glued to my chair and the computer. I knew so much more about the sport so that I could understand it. For instance, I never realized before Tim woolley Racing and Alex brown that there was so much involved in just training a horse and getting he/she to prime phyical conditioning. I never had any idea that they have to school them so much to get used to being able to handle the starting gate. That and all the wonderful things that Alex has opened my mind to here. I think it would hurt him deeply if we all said we quit the sport.
I know that if I had the chance, despite the heartbreaks, i would give up my mundane office job life to be involved with a training stable any day 24/7 365.

Barbaro Team: Before I post my comment, I just want to say "I'm truly sorry"........I went the ESPN.com to cast my vote for Horse of the Year. Barbaro is first of course, then Bernardini and Invasor. Ater I voted, another screen popped up showing how each state voted. New Mexico voted for Bernardini........Am I the only Barbaro fan over here? Most of the states voted for Barbaro.......I don't know what's going on but I am and always will be a follower of the most magnificent horse I have ever seen.

Precious Barbaro: May our Father give you a night of rest and healing. May you wake to a glorious day of sunshine and grazing.
Thank you Father for the "Miracle of Barbaro"

Lost in the Fog: I know you were there when beautiful Pine Island crossed the Rainbow Bridge. May she run and play with all the great ones that were there to welcome her home.
Father, thank you for "The Fog".

Barbaro Team: May you have a good night....I know the remainder of my evening will be overshadowed with the sadness of losing Pine Island. May her connections find comfort in the arms of our Heavenly Father for such a tragic loss.

I prayed "extra hard" for our Precious Barbaro during our vigil......thanking our Father for Barbaro presence in our lives......

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

I don't know if you all know it, but Gallant Secret still has candles burning for her, at "gal s". She will always be with us, another tragedy with a name we will never forget.

Thank you to the DRF for the anti-horse slaughter ad. This profile is rising at the right time, hopefully - perhaps having this vote right after the biggest horse event of the year (other than the Derby, of course) will be helpful. I just wish ESPN had done a feature on it during the races...

Alex, thanks for the updates at the BC. Glad you had a great time.

Our prayers go out to Pine Island's connection (it was notes that she was a 'favorite' and 'pet' at the stables. Our hearts go out to Ogden Phipps and crew.... She is running with cream of the crop of those in heaven.

Believe in Barbaro!
Believe in Miracles!

On a night like this, I feel so strongly that horse racing and my concern--dog racing--are blood sports. So many of these finely bred animals are just fodder for the gamblers and the revenues the states receive. When their injuries are too grave, or they are "retired" the vast majority are slaughtered--the dogs don't wind up as food, but their deaths are as varied and as heinous as the many ways man has devised to kill living things. It sickens me. I told myself I was not going to watch the BC today, and I did. And there stood Pine Island. So beautiful, her life crushed by her genetics. The hearts of those who loved her torn forever....I thought of Go for Wand, Ruffian, Gallant Secret--the many who died for their speed.
That's what it comes down to. Yes, racing is beautiful to watch--but at what a cost. These animals...I feel it is a miracle that more are not
fouly injured and euthanised, that so many manage to make their slender legs carry their enormous bodies and seemingly defy gravity over and over again....and then what? Injury? Slaughter? I am so sad.

Dear God watch over all your creations man has altered to please his need for watching 4-legged creatures fly. We ask that you protect these animals from those who would harm them and not cherish them as the divine creatures that they are....and bring comfort to those who have loved
and honored them and are now shredded with such sudden loss and pain.

Run free little girl, be with all the great ones and all the not-so-great, and learn to love the many thousands and 100s of thousands of racing greyhounds God has called back to his side....

Nancy in CT said it the best
RIP Foggy and Pine Island

I always seem to forget just how delicate these horses are. Very sad.

Nancy in CT said it the best
RIP Foggy and Pine Island

I always seem to forget just how delicate these horses are. Very sad.

####

Does anyone know if Mike Rea won the White Horse Award at the Breeder's Cup?? I don't know if I missed a post about this somewhere.

Does anyone know???

Firstly, congratulations to all the winners today, especially Round Pond! I watched the races from 12:30 until the end, very enjoyable afternoon. That is......with the exception of Pine Island and Fleet :( My sympathies go out to all concerned with Pine Island, she was such a beauty, it just broke my heart seeing her go down and even worse when I heard the results of her fate minutes later. Tears would not stop flowing, she reminded me so much of Ruffian, and both of those days I will never forget.

I am now heading over to light that final candle for Pine, all those greats have met her at the Rainbow Bridge. May God hold her in his arms and let her run free.

Hiya, Bobbey! I hope that your Saturday was a special one, filled with extra pampering. Today's events at Churchill Downs bring an even greater awareness of how fortunate the world is that you were able to be saved on 05/20/06. May your slumbers tonight be unfettered by troubles, sweet prince. You've captured our hearts. Hugs, pets, & "scratches" from your pals in CT - Robyn, Brent, & Nikita

#### To Linda H.: Please take it easy and try not to overdo it.
To Nancy: I hope that Mike's trip home isn't too taxing. I'm sorry if his time at the track was bittersweet. His courage and tenacity are exemplary.
To Alex: I hope that you can convey to Michael Matz and Edgar Prado that we are sending good thoughts their way on what must've been a truly difficult day for them both.
To Designgirl7: Right on, Sister Woman! Here's to righteous indignation. Well said.
To Cheryl: May Star be feeling better soon.
To Nancy in CT: Ditto on good thoughts for Ms. Maizie the Cat.
To Linnie: Truly a sad day, with the death of Pine Island and the injury of Fleet Indian. My condolences to the Phipps Family. The lovely, incomparable Lilly Pulitzer is a member of the Phipps Family by birth.
It's odd, today I drove past the place where I sat with Brent on 05/20/2006 and listened on the car radio to the Preakness. I always get so sad when I have to drive by there. I couldn't bring myself to watch any of the races today. I wonder if it was some sort of premonition. Now it's time for this native Kentuckian to head upstairs and have Brent make me a Manhattan with Maker's Mark. (I'm past wanting any red wine tonight, due to today's events.) I'll raise my glass to Master Barbaro Jackson and all his caretakers. Peace! ##

Jonna, I understand why you are distraught but please remember that we are guests here of our very gracious hosts Tim Woolley and Alex Brown and that horse race training is their livlihood and that we are here on their business web site. They are great "blokes".

###Thank you Rosemary. You're right. My apologies for reacting in anger.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

I'm joining you guys in a glass of red wine.

VOTE FOR BARBARO FOR HORSE of THE YEAR

GO TO ESPN.com and look in the right hand of the page for the poll.....three choices

Let's make BARBARO win by a landslide !!!!!!

He's winning in every state let's make sure there's no doubt who WE WANT for HOY !!!!!

DON'T WAIT....these polls don't seem to stay for long.....

Hi Jeanette,

I live in Northern New Mexico, check on Barbaro everyday and wear my bracelet proudly. My eleven year old daughter does as well.........you are not the only one so don't feel alone. I'm going to vote now!

Janie in New Mexico

Hi Jeanette,

I live in Northern New Mexico, check on Barbaro everyday and wear my bracelet proudly. My eleven year old daughter does as well.........you are not the only one so don't feel alone. I'm going to vote now!

Janie in New Mexico

Barbaro, time to go nighty, night and tuck you in for the night. I'm so glad you're safe and doing so well, thank God. Today we again are reminded all too tragically, how the angels were with you that day and continue to help you. Have a peaceful rest tonight.

God bless Barbaro, make him stronger every day.

God bless Pine Island and please take good care of her for us. Foggy, show her all the greenest pastures.

God bless Linda H, Fleet Indian, BDude, Cahill, Sooner, Felix, Darlin, Foggy, Star, Gift, Avi, Pio, Dilly, BG, Lucky, Princess Woody and all who need God's care tonight. Please give Pine Island's family comfort.

Today was the first day I watched live racing since the Preakness...I really have to think all of this through..

There is a very nice picture of Pine Island on Barbara Livingston's site:

http://www.barbaralivingston.com/albums/ontrack/RF3K5817.jpg

She's a very pretty girl, looks very intelligent...

(Ok, forgot the blue link...)

chris byers

thanks for your response. My personal revelation today has absolutely no bearing on Alex or Tim's professions, or their absolute professionalism in how they conduct themselves both in and out of the sport.

My reflection is not based on anything other than my own personal feelings. I just can't embrace the sport any longer.

Maybe my decision is based on ignorance, but I simply cannot ignore how I feel. It hurts me too much to see any animal suffer needlessly. I also don't gp tp zoo's.

This decision to remove myself from race viewing in NO WAY alters my love for Barbaro, and the respect I have for many in the industry.

I just don't want to be involved in the racing part of horses. It hurts too much.

Thanks for your response...I truely understand and respect what you are saying. Please try to see my position as well.

Have a peaceful nite, everyone. And please go lite candles for Pine Island tonite...lite her way over.

Feeling extremely grateful for Barbaro tonite.

Slumber well, champ.
Therese

Sue W - please go read my post of 12:45 AM timestamp.

Bobby is kicking butt on the ESPN poll right now.

Theresa, I hope you have a good night with sweet dreams of Bobby. I picture him laying on his hay right now snoring and dreaming of baby carrots, mints and goats.

HORSE SLAUGHTER BAN POLL

CURRENT STANDINGS BELOW

PLEASE GO TO www.ksdk.com, lower right side, and VOTE !

Should the United States have laws banning the slaughter of horses?
Yes 2332 Votes
No 1231 Votes
I don't know 392 Votes

Total Votes Cast: 3955

Chris Byers:

I mean no disrespect to our hosts. I simply mean I have to think all this through and settle it in my own mind before I can enjoy a race again. Luckily I have until May to do that...

Fleet Indian needs some candles tonite, too.

Let's keep her in our prayers for a safe and complete recovery.

I just finished watching the races (Magic of Tivo)...

My heart goes out to Pine Island's connections. Fleet Indian...she will be taking the same road as our beloved (((Bobby)))...best wishes...all of Barbaronation will be pulling for you.

Congratulations to Michael Matz and Round Pound.

Invasor-Classic Champion. My Hero.

((((Barbaro))))...Still the only undefeated 3 Year old...Thinking of you always Champ.

Pat G
Proud Member
Fans of Barbaro

Sue W, yes we have until the next season. I understand how you feel. I have the same cunundrum about Ruffian's movie but after what happened to Pine today I feel I owe it to both of them and all the other precious ones to go and see it.

Just want to say:

Bless all of you kind hearted souls here today. You are all wonderful and special people.

Theresa, it is very hard to love this sport, because of what happened today. I understand you do not want to watch that again. I even gave up watching horse races after Ruffian, for years.

The psychic pain of this - of seeing a wonderful, beloved, strong, fine racehorse like Pine Island going down is the thing I dread the most. I lit candles last night trying to ward this off. As the day progressed and everyone came back safe, it felt so good.

Unfortunately, this happens way too often.

I don't know why I love horseracing, and sometimes I hate myself for watching. It's almost an addiction. I love the lore, I love the horses more than anything, I love the connections, I love the way trainers map out plans, I love the way jockeys ride the races, I love horses who have spirit and courage--like the courage that has stood Barbaro in such good stead.

On days like this, I hate myself.

I hate myself for even loving this sport. But, God help me, I still love the racehorse. I still love the people. And I don't know what to do about it.

Jake

Jonna - I think your prayer is beautiful. Thank you. Therese, I respect your decision. I haven't watched a horserace in 20 years - It was an "accident" that I happened upon the Preakness when Bobby brokedown. I didn't know who he was or what race he was in. SueW - I'm sure you are not the only one that might be rethinking tonight, and I agree, that does not mean disrespect for Alex.

I also think Alex and Tim know not everyone here is a horseracing fan - nor do we need to be. I would hope there is room here for all of us - because ALL of us are here for Bobby.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

Chris Byers:

I was at the Breeder's Cup in 2002 when there was a similar very bad accident that happened right in front of me. Had the same result. Took a really long time to think that one through, eventually, you do, but it's always in the back of your head...

Mary S., you are right. As long as love and the desire to do good fills our hearts. I just don't want Alex to feel like all his hard work about educating us on the sport is for naught.

########

Shelley, Thanks for the link to the picture of Pine Island. She was so beautiful!

FOB's, Of course Barbaro is kicking butt in that poll. Everyone knows he would have beat them all today.

Sue W. , I am fast forwarding in my mind to me in a theater in June 2007 when I will be 43 sobbing uncontrollably like I did in a theater when I was 10 and saw "Old Yeller."

What a great result for Fair Hill: a win and two seconds! Congratulations to all the connections of Round Pond, Film Maker, and Better Talk Now! And condolences to the connections of Pine Island for their heart-breaking loss.

Barbaro, I continue to pray for your healing and recovery; Fleet Indian, I am praying for your recovery, also.

I wish the family of Pine Island comfort and peace; Pine Island has crossed over the Rainbow Bridge, and may she rest in peace.

Goodnight, Foggy; I love you.

Congratulations, Michael, on Round Pond.

May God bless all animals, big and small, two legged and four legged; I love you all. Donna L. in Leland, NC

Sue W.-Woody had a wonderful day. An afternoon spent out in the pasture trotting around while I worked, (a few nibbles of horse manure-I just cannot figure out why bird dogs love that stuff so much!) followed by a snack of popcorn, a ride to the grocery store, and lots of hugs and pats. Thanks for your prayers for her. I'm sure they will help her get up the stairs tonight when it's time for bed. A prayer for you too, and your very kind heart. Wonderful wonderful people here on this site. Incredible people.

Chris - I haven't seen a heart yet without the desire to love and do good. Probably best to let Alex worry about the rest.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

Good night all,
It was nice sharing the day with you all, good and bad.

Barbaro,
Sleep tight sweet boy. I'm sure you are sleeping now. Kisses on your brow. Love you.

Mary S., I know June 2007 is a while off but could you perhaps prepare a healing of the soul prayer for then for all of us to give comfort as we will be seeing Ruffian's movie, please?
We will need it.

####

November3, 2001 Exogenous was put down after a freak accident going through the tunnel to get to the Belmont track for the 2001 Distaff race at the B.C. Jockey Javier Castellano was thrown from her and she had neurological damage from her fall.

Poor man, he lost two fillies in five years at the same race.

####

Hi, Becky:

Sooo glad Woody is doing well! My black Lab likes the horse poop, too, I don't get it either! And there is no better feeling than when they can get up the stairs to join us at night, is there? I'll keep praying that it gets easier for her every night...thanks for letting us know the prayers are being heard.

All,

RE the Ruffian Movie, I believe it is a movie made for TV. I think it will air on ABC in June 2007. Stock up on tissue!!!!

Ro & Brady

Jake and everyone,

What you have said is true of me too. Sometimes I feel like an ancient roman at the Coliseum. How can I love a sport where 25 percent of the time, someone get severly injured or dies? Am I so caught up in the romance of the sport that I cannot see the truth?

Barbaro's breakdown ripped a gaping whole in my heart. "Enough already" I said.. "I'm done too"
If Barbaro had perished like so many before, I would probably have never set eyes on another race. I would have walked away and never thought about that pain again.

But watching Barbaro's story unfold and seeing his courage has changed all of that for me. And for many of you. I have seen some of the most marvelous and miraculous things because of Bobby. I have met all of you. I have learned so much about so many things. And instead of walking away in pain, I was able to pick myself up and start working together with many of you for promoting safer track conditions. Campaingingfor barbaro.com is dedicated to improving the conditions for track surfaces as well as many other issues.

Sometimes this is all VERY hard to look at. BUT dont give up...please dont give up. Face your enemy ,study it, and conquer.

Keep moving forward...one centimeter at a time, one ACN at a time, one person that you can enlighten at a time.

Barbaro shows us how to do it.
Follow him.

Leslie In MN

###Chris - I meant FOB hearts - not all hearts.

I'm not sure what you mean about healing of the soul prayer for June 2007, but that certainly gives me time to prepare. I have a close friend that loves Ruffian - I will ask her.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

Jake,

You took the thoughts right out of my head. It is a real conflict - I have always considered myself an animal rights activist, and have a very hard time justifying watching horses race, especially the more we know and see - and then, because we know and see more, I have a hard time not watching because the additional knowledge has made it even more compelling. I have always worked hard to help eliminate greyhound racing and help with the resulting rescue efforts, and yet here I watch horse racing even more often with great anticipation because we know more of the horses and their paths to hopeful success.

A day like today breaks the heart and angers the soul. Yet you look in their eyes, standing in the sheds, and - you can't help but love them and wish them a fantastic trip, flowers across their saddles, extra studmuffins for dessert. This is top of the line, of course, best accomodations.

There are two 4 year old fillies right now awaiting disposition at a northern California race track with career ending injuries - they will be sold for slaughter if not picked up by one of the rescues. The Exceller Fund in the forum has almost made up the funds - $500 for each. It certainly puts it all in perspective, along with the tragedy of today. Not all owners care about the horses, as well we know, and I always wonder about the small percentage we are able to watch and admire on the track at the highest level of racing: What percentage of the TB's bred end up at the other end of the spectrum?

If one has a heart, it is not possible to watch this sport without misgivings... That is why it is so easy to love and admire Barbaro and his connections, the absolute best in the overall very questionable business. I think that is why Edgar Prado's face is so heavy with sadness - he is there, he has lived it, and he has a heart.

How do we find an address to send cards for Pine?

Amidst all the excitement and agony and ecstasy of today's racing, let us not forget why we are here at TWR - It's all about Barbaro. Another good night last night, another good day today, and all is right with our world.

Congrats to Tim Woolley and Michael Matz and Edgar Prado and all the other Fair Hill & Barbaro connections who did well yesterday and today.

And my heart goes out to the connections of Pine Island. They portrayed her as a barn favorite with a great personality, not "just" a racehorse.

#########
A poster I've never noticed before, posted this a little while back, shortly before the tragic race today:

Even with its sad ending, Ruffian was so wonderful and her story is heroic. Reading and writing about her got me through a very hard time-- she will always be what you can't forget

Lyn Lifshin

Posted by: Lyn Lifshin at November 4, 2006 7:54 PM

Well I was intrigued that this poster said "writing about" Ruffian, so I went to the website that comes on when you click on Lyn's name at the end of that post, and it seems she is a writer who has an award-winning book about Ruffian. Here is a link to an article she wrote that was published in Horse & Rider Magazine on the 30th Anniversary of Ruffian's breakdown.

http://www.lynlifshin.com/racing_Lifshin_Ruffian_article.pdf

I am impressed, and all of you people who buy books about racehorses, here's one you might not know about. Check out her website. I'm glad I did.

LIVING PROOF OF THE LIVING TRUTH

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

The very sad news of Pine Island's passing today serves to remind us all of how fleeting and fragile life truly is, and makes me all the more grateful for our precious Barbaro's continued recovery. My thoughts and prayers go out to Pine Island and all of her family. My heart truly breaks for them. God bless you beautiful girl. Rest in peace.

Barbaro, I am so grateful that you continue to heal and grow stronger (and a little taller too). I pray you have another peaceful night, filled with healing and comfort. I am very thankful you are safe and well cared for this night. You're in my thoughts, my prayers, my heart. Good night sweet boy. I love you Barbaro.

The miracle continues...

###
Maybe next year these reporters and people who come up with the betting odds etc will do a little more homework into our Fair Hill crew instead of wonderring how many of Todd Pletchers horses are gonna win. Better Talk Now, Film Maker, Round pond were all seriously under-rated and I am so glad they all came out shining!! Plus if you throw in our Jockey Mr Edgar Prado, Team Barbaro really rocked the Breeders Cup today!!

Thats the beauty of today, Todd Pletcher had like 20 entries and Fair Hill shut him down..lol I love his horses, but thats just over kill.

I was excited to see Gorella race today, but think she needed more time to rest. She just raced like 2 1/2 weeks ago and Won. Plus the race before that. She needed a rest, but they threw her in the boys to see what would happen. I thank God she got out OK. It was a very rough trip. Back to the filly and mare races for her. And I want to see her take a well deserved rest.

Round Pond was awesome. I guess we know those glue on shoes were glued on good!! Safe to say her feet issues are behind her? I think so! And nothing we love more then to see MM and Edgar in the Winners Circle. where they belong!

So sad this victory for them had to be marred by Pine's accident. I am truly sorry for Pine may god bless her. We know that MM and Edgar have felt the exact same way and it was obvious they were taken back to the Preakness by the looks on their faces.

Mary S., thank you.

C.Jaffee, I just went up and clicked on her link. OMG !

Thank you Shelley, that's pretty much how I feel. I ask myself why is it that the horse has historically been mistreated or mis-used in many arenas of life. I wonder if we take the horse for granted and that now the truth is beginning to light up those areas of abuse. They have done so much for us, for centuries that's how people got around! As I have gotten older I have noticed that if someone says something is okay many of us follow along like sheep without thinking for ourselves, not wanting to rock the boat or go against what always was the "norm".

The more people become educated about abuse and slaughter people will wake up. It's like domestic violence, as women finally learn how to say no more, enough! -- then others are forced to change.

####

Thank you Nancy for the update on Mike. I am sorry he did not come away with the award and that he had a tough time being there. I am sure when he gets some good rest, he will be able to relive the events of the BC with Alex and have good memories of being there.

Mike you are an inspiration to so many of us. You and Barbaro must be patient. The road to a full recovery is a long one, but step by step you are both getting closer and closer to that day.

####
ShelleyA,

The events of today can't help your nerves any. May you and Mr.Boxcar have a great day at the races.

Candles have been lit for Pine Island and her beloveds, and for Fleet Indian to help the healing process. Pine has over 120 and Fleet about 30...sending love and light is the best we can give at a time like this.

Shannon,

I am 100% with you. We need to commend our hero Mr. Prado, for his class at the race today when he won with Round Pond. He just kept looking back in concern for the injured horses, not thinking about his glory. Class cannot be bought!

Ro & Brady

I don't mean to be harsh - but I can't shake this question. For those that have said if Bobby had died they would never have watched another horserace - well what all of us have fallen in love with is Bobby's spirit. If he had died we would not have had the great privelege of witnessing that spirit. So how would he have been any different that any other racehorse that people liked and they died? Just Ducky, Easy Strider, Pine Island, Gallant Secret, Ruffian - all of them. Somehow the human mind finds a way to shove what they saw, or felt into the back of their minds, were they can stand it, and some will continue to watch, maybe holding their breath for a time, and then not. We de-sensitize to the possibility of tragedy - we have to.

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

So ecstatic about Miesques Approval winning the mile, I have been watching him race and work out in the mornings for years! He really deserved this and the money I made on him is going directly to rescue a few horses from slaughter. He paid $50.00 to win, also good third from Nightmare Affair with Edgar.

But happiness was short lived due to loss of Pine Island. Nothing else matters when that happens. Poor Edgar - he couldn't celebrate on Sarava when he won the Belmont and spoiled War Emblems' triple crown, couldn't celebrate on Birdstone when he spoiled Smarty's triple crown, Barbaro and now this. God bless him.

The Phipps and McGaughey would do anything to save her if it was possible. They saved Dancinginmydreams who had a very similar injury to Barbaro and spent over a year at New Bolton.
They bring their horses to Payson Park here in Florida after the Breeders Cup, I can post the address for those interested. Only 3 years old, hearthbreaking for sweet Pine Island. We need to get S1915 passed so we can get to work on track safety for all horses. Tears!

Barb m in Florida

Janie from New Mexico: Thank you for your comment. I knew that there were some other Barbaro fans here but I couldn't remember them. My mind kind of went into "schock" since I saw Pine Island today. It just gave me flashbacks of Ruffian and I'm having a hard time trying to get over my grief for this beautiful filly. May God Bless you and yours.......

Keep in touch

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

######

Barb or Alex please let us know where we can send a card to Pine Islands family. I would also like to know what they are going to do with Fleet Indian.

Hey, we need to send congrats to Michael..first time at the Derby and he wins and now the first time at the Breeders Cup and he wins! He did have a nice look of happiness today.

######

Barb or Alex please let us know where we can send a card to Pine Islands family. I would also like to know what they are going to do with Fleet Indian.

Hey, we need to send congrats to Michael..first time at the Derby and he wins and now the first time at the Breeders Cup and he wins! He did have a nice look of happiness today.

Hi Fob's:
On this page & the discussion board I see so many people who do not want to watch horse racing again, not only because of today's tragedy but for other reasons as well. First, the people who come to TWR are sensitive people: people with a heart. None of us like to see any animal hurt! So emotions are raw, minds are not right. Horse racing is an incredibly beautiful sport. But nobody should ever say what happened today is just part of it. Horse racing needs to change many things and today is not the day to discuss them. Today we need to sort out our feelings and be thankful for Bobby. He has shown us strength & spirit, he has opened eyes to the horror of slaughtering. Let's celebrate the Barbaro Effect by winning the fight for S.1915 and then we can focus on the racing industry to make changes. There's nothing more beautiful than seeing these great athletes do what they do: run!
Daryl

Jake,

I hear your pain and maybe some anger--I am kind of angry about what happened today. Can I suggest that by hating yourself you are judging yourself too harshly. You love horses and you are fighting to get this HS stopped. Please give yourself credit for that! I think when it's passed it is going to have a huge affect on uncaring people who have horses.

Well said, Daryl. Thank you for the good perpective.

DARYL,

BRAVO! WELL SAID. I HAVEN'T WATCHED RACES SINCE THE PREAKNESS UNTIL THIS AFTERNOON AND BANG, ANOTHER TRAGEDY. I DON'T THINK I CAN TAKE IT AGAIN, BUT I TAKE YOUR POINT.

LET US ALL BE THANKFUL FOR BARBARO!

Ro & Brady

Daryl,

I agree, however, when something tragic happens it is important for people who witnessed it to talk about it, it helps us to eventually let it go and move on. It's part of the healing process.

Congrats to Michael Matz and Edgar Prado for Round Pond's win today in the Distaff.

My thoughts go out to all of Pine Island's connections. What a tough day for them.

I'm sure what happened to Pine Island and Javier Castellano had something to do with Javier's tough trip on Bernardini. It must have been very difficult for him. My thoughts are with you Javier.

Thank you Daryl.....even though I was really shaken today with the tragedy of losing yet another beautiful creation from our Father, I will continue to watch and admire these majestic animals and pray continuously for their safety.

Jeanette Cavalier

"Please Pray for the Horses"

###########

Hi to all FFOBs and Horse Lovers Everywhere! Will someone please let me know what that natural remedy is that was mentioned on the Board yesterday during the discussion about Gifted Colors' tummy situation? It sure sounds better than Pepto-Bismol. Might be worth a shot!

Speaking of Gifted Colors, how is she doing today? Has her stomach problem been diagnosed yet? Please keep us all posted!

Thanks from Laura S. in Washington State!

Posted by Laura S. in Snohomish, WA at November 4, 2006 9:27 PM

You're more than welcome, Laura S. in Washington State! The natural remedy I am always "pushing" at every opportunity, is COLOSTRUM. Feel free to email me and I will relate some anecdotal experiences. (Apparently this is one of my purposes in life, haha.)

LIVING PROOF OF THE LIVING TRUTH

Hope Peace Love Music & RESPECT - CJ the craziest catlady (Blackie's Mother & Pleasure's Aunt) in Hammond IN, f/k/a CJ of T Bar J (Elgin IL) (contact info if you click on my name below)

ps - for horsey runs, though, Pepto Bismol is still the remedy my vet recommends. Colostrum is not a specific for that, as far as I know; but I don't know. I use colostrum to avoid ulcers associated with long-term lowdose bute use in my crippled but comfortable old mare. Have used it to combat nausea in kidney patient cats. CJ

Magnificent Pine - May you rest gently in peace, precious one...I know Fog was there to greet you when you opened your eyes, and he led you safely home. Some day we will see you again - but until then you will be so missed and always so loved forever. You were SO SPECIAL and no one will EVER replace you. We are left with so much pain..the tears will never completely stop for either you or The Fog, but we know you and Fog are together in that beautiful pasture. And we will see you again one day. Thank you magnificent Pine for the joy and happiness you brought to so many. I will love and miss you forever.

Should the United States have laws banning the slaughter of horses?
Yes 2388 Votes
No 1253 Votes
I don't know 397 Votes

Total Votes Cast: 4038

Go to www.ksdk.com
Jo some one do the blue thing to this site.
Please!

Re: Bernardini

I am not sure I would agree with Bernardini having lost due to jockey error. All the things that Bernardini had never faced before he faced today. 1. He had lots of traffic and had to work for his position. 2. He was finally in a field with horses of his calibre and he couldn't take off from the pack. It was a very evenly matched field. 4. Even if Berni had gotten the push from Javier sooner he still would of had to run down the competition and 5. Invasors stretch run would of still been as powerful with the same results. 6. Bernardini was looked in the eye today for the first time and he was firing with all he had. Invasor just had more to give.

Just my two cents. Bernardini had a great race, I had him in my top 3, But I knew he was beatable if he faced all the things above.. and he did and he was. Barbaro should now clearly be the 3yr old of the year, Hands down.

Don't you just love the "men in our lives": Barbaro, Alex, Michael, Edgar, Peter, and Dr. Richardson? If they don't all represent CLASS, who does? Just the thought of them puts a smile on my face and inspiration in my heart.

Barbaro, have sweet dreams tonight.

Love Always,

Kim
Nicholasville KY

Everyone vote

I listened to the short interview with Bernardini's trainer after the race and they said that he ran a bit differently than he has in the past. Jeanine said about 2/3rds of the way into the race the trainer got a worried look on his face. I don't think the Jockey was all to blame. The media built that horse up so high people were comparing him to secretariat! Please! Bernardini is a good horse, he is just not invincible.

Barbaro is one in a million...look at EVERYTHING he has done this year!

Debbie,

So can we vote more than once?

Like all of you, I am heartbroken about today's events and the loss the Pine Island. Anytime you see an animal injured or in distress, it is a bitter pill to swallow.

For those of you that are questioning why you watch a sport where something like this can happen...
Most of these horses LOVE what they are doing. They are bred for racing and it's in their blood. To deny them the right to do what they love would be like to deny your children the right to play football because they might get hurt or to deny them the joy of horseback riding because they might get thrown.

Pine Island was a beautiful, wonderful, loving thoroughbred who died doing what she loved best...competing. Not only is it tragic but it is also very scary to those of us involved in horseracing. It brings to the forefront the danger that they face everytime they race.

So, when you question yourselves about why you are enthralled with the sport, maybe it is because you are watching some of God's most glorious creatures doing what they were born to do and loving it with all their heart and soul.

Did I cry today....yes! Do I want to scratch my horse tomorrow and not let him run...yes!! But would that be fair...no!! So, with my heart in my mouth I will wish him God's speed for a safe trip and let him do what he loves so much.

Bonnie MacRaith
I don't know?

### - when it happened - when Pine Island went down - I developed an immediate headache - that and nausea haven't passed. Rest in Peace - beautiful girl - you are now in the company of greatness. With sincere and BIG congratulations to Michael Matz and Edgar Prado - and Round Pond ...... a beautiful win -
and such an odd scenario - a win, tainted with sadness and shock - much like Bernardini's win at the Preakness. I wish the jockey, who had undoubtedly experienced some physical and more emotional trauma - had been scratched and replaced with another - to give Bernardini a different opportunity to win. It is helpful to have a place - here with fellow FOB's - to give voice to the heaviness - AND the gratitudes -
ACN and ACD - dearest HOF, Barbaro !!

Sherry - Arizona

####
Bonnie MacRaith,

When I tried to vote again, they wouldn't let me!

Prayers and Tears for Pine Island.....

#####

Bdude says hello to all his friends out there in Barbaroland - too cold to come out from under his blanket today.

Thanks for your prayers.

Steve & BDude

Sherry
I think your right, to give Bernardini a different opportunity to win. I am still heart sick for Pine Island. So very sad! Sad for MM and EP too.

##

I just want to add something before I retire for the night. I feel for everyone here tonight that doesn't want to watch racing any longer. But, here me out on my story here. I'll try to keep it brief.

I worked my way through high school and college working for Jack Van Berg, a thoroughbred trainer. A wonderful man. During my tenure on the track, I witnessed many an injury during those eight years. The worst was with a horse I took care of that broke his leg during a race, and had to be euthanized right there, right in front of me as I held him. It still hurts to this day, and it was over 20 years ago. It is why Barbaro's injury affected me the way it did.

As working on the backside was my job at the time, I could not just quit watching, I had other horses to care for, others to cheer on and worry about.

I know it's difficult, believe me I know. And, I respect everyone's individual decision, as it is an individual decision. What helps me through it as I watch races, even now, is knowing that those wonderful horses need us cheering for them, praying for them when they get hurt, and praying for them and their human families when they have to leave us. They need each and every one of us there for them. If you can't watch, again I understand, and I know you'll all continue to think of them and pray. They'll know that you're there for them, even if you're not watching.

Barbaro's legacy will involve safer racing. I just know it. Polytrack surfaces are just the beginning.

I still watch, all the time, and pray.

Shelley A., I wish Mr. Box car a safe and successful day tomorrow!

ShelleyA,

You got me bawling all over again.

Will keep you and Boxcar in my thoughts and prayers tomorrow!

Ro & Brady

Shannon: I agree with you. I dont see jockey error as a big factor. He ran a tough race with some quality competition....Let's face it, Bernardini had the lead - he just got caught. And when he had a horse look him in the eye for the first time down the stretch, he got passed and didnt have the extra kick to catch him. I was ready to give him his kudos if he won, but never felt he was as great as the press wanted him to be. He ran a good hard race but Invasor was better today.

#####

Skyler

I didn't know you worked for Jack Van Berg. That's who I got I'ma from!!! He's a friend and a wonderful man.

Should the United States have laws banning the slaughter of horses?
Yes 2388 Votes
No 1253 Votes
I don't know 397 Votes

Total Votes Cast: 4038

Go to www.ksdk.com
Jo some one do the blue thing to this site.
Please!

What do you think?

##

Shelley, next to my father, husband and brother, there's not a man I admire or respect more. I think the world of him.

Today was IT for me. Horse racing is just too cruel to these beautiful creatures. What a horrible waste! God bless Pine Island, now running free and PAINLESSLY in heaven. I personally am furious what these horses are subjected to and cannot take this anymore, but will always keep Barbaro in my prayers as long as he is alive! Goodbye to this "sport," goodbye to this website, and goodbye to you very good and caring people.

I didn't mean to upset anyone. I just wanted you to realize how much these horses love what they do. I think many that are not involved with the horses might not realize that.

Of course there are some that don't want to run. That's when we need to LISTEN to what they're telling us and make a career change.

But for the horses that love it, it would make them very unhappy not to race!! Boxcar is one of those....he puffs right up when he goes out to the track. He lights up and it's a beautiful sight.

Thank you all for your good wishes and prayers for his safe trip!

Special prayers for Boxcar tonight. Handsome little boy!

May you have a safe journey tomorrow baby.

###
Skyler you are right, Barbaro's legacy involves so many things, mostly all revolving around the need to keep our horses safe on and off the track, his legacy is one that will have far reaching implications for years to come. It will benefit all horses, the beauty of Barbaro.

Tamara, I understand your anguish but if you love horses you will stay here at TWR with us and help get S1915 passed.

We need your voice.

They are bred to run. They love to run - Its what they do - They do it beautifully, with grace, nobility, pride.

Unfortunately, anyone who has been around horses know how fragile they are. It's not just TB's running in a race - those ankles and legs can fail walking on a trail. Because of that fragility, we need to make sure tracks and training environments are as safe as possible. Tracks and Racing will become safer because of Barbaro.

Sweet dreams, Pine Island - Run with the other great ones.

Sorry to break in to the discussion but I want to post this for Joyce who is a Fan of Barbaro who reads TWR but doesn't post much herself.

Her husband Bob is having open heart surgery on Tuesday. Joyce is really stressed about this as you can imagine--to the point that she is now physically ill herself.

Will you please say a prayer for both of them, especially on Tuesday when he has his surgery. And if you can, let them know that they are in your thoughts and send positive energy their way.

I started a candle group for him under Bob if you care to light a candle.

Thanks so much.

Joyce and Bob, my prayers and good thoughts are with both of you.

Here you guys, remember Pine Island in all her glory on her Breeders Cup page they have some video of her winning races. Sticking her big ole head out under that wire. God I loved to watch her race. She was so special. But it made me happy to watch her here. I will fight for Track Safety and I will mention her name too. Forever in my heart...Pine Island

Pine Island Breeders Cup Page

http://www.ntra.com/stats_bios.aspx?id=19685

####
Sam I Am,

Please remind us. It's hard to remember all this stuff. I will be glad to say a few words to the Great Horseman Upstairs if you remind me!

##

Joyce and Bob, you are in my prayers. Your Barbaro family is with you in spirit every step of the way.

Please keep us posted Sam. And Joyce, you take care of yourself. You need to stay healthy to take care of Bob when he gets home.

Big B.,
I'm hoping you're all set and snuggled i for another good night. Heal Sound and Heal Strong!

Alex, hope you had a great time today!!!!! Please extend congrats to Graham for Film Maker and Better Talk Now! Both were phenominal!!

Round Pond deserves special props, too! Very happy for MM and EP but sad for the complete outcome. How horrible!

Thoughts & prayers to Pine Island (who I'm sure Foggy is greeting at the other side of the bridge).

Hope everyone has a good rest of the weekend!

-Julie

When people get hurt playing sports they rarely lose their life, thats the difference.

Laura,

I much appreciate you telling us of Pine's personality, she sounds like a great gal, not the most beautiful but I see the heart of a powerful presence as if she might say "the heck with beauty, I'm here to be a wild and crazy gal". Her spirit will be well remembered.

Bernardini lost due to jockey error???

C'mon now, he got the EXACT trip Barbaro got in the derby,wide down the backstretch and moved to the lead on the turn, except for 1 thing, when Edgar asked Barbaro for run, he exploded...Bernardini fizzled...for the FIRST time Bernardini had some competition, he was flat and tired at the 1/8th pole looking to be beat.

My question is with the rail being the gold paved road to the winners circle at Churchill today(the 1 post won 4 of the 5 dirt races on the BC card today), why did Edgar take Premium Tap OFF the rail coming out of the turn and into the stretch. he rode Round Pond down the gold rail earlier but took this horse off the rail. THAT was a questionable call, not the ride Bernardini got.
AND the only horse to beat Invasor....DISCREET CAT..and with the strong inside bias today at churchill it only makes Invasors win that much more impressive and Bernardinis' flop more glaring.
And the bumping incident in the stretch between Bernardini and Brother Derek cost Brother Derek 4th place in the race, guess the stewards didn't want to upset the apple cart by DQ'ing Bernardini.
If a horse interferes with another and costs him a placing, its grounds for a DQ....Brother Derek clearly had to steady and couldn't regroup allowing Giacomo to pass him..

Hats off to INVASOR for overcoming the strong bias and winning..

Should the USA Ban The Slaughter of Horses?

VOTE HERE

lets add our votes here too!!

Mike,
Did B ever run against Invasor?

Tamara:
I hope you are still reading. Barbaro never quit. Lesson learned? Stay with us. Barbaro's accident happened for a reason. Because of his tragedy: new facilities to study laminitis, new medical techniques for surgical repair on equine legs, the eye-opening to slaughter. He has given us so much! Now it's time to give back. And we start by not quitting! We need everyone to get this legislation passed. Then we can all turn our attention to the racing industry and push for safety measures. No matter how much you hate what you saw, no matter how much you hurt, carry on. Think of Pine Island. Someday racing will be safer. Think of Darlin'. Someday horses won't have to endure what she and her companions experienced in Mo. Think of Barbaro. His strength, his spirit! In the name of these beautiful horses, please! Let's all fight on!
Daryl
It doesn't take much of a person to be a success! It takes all of a person!

BONNIE..

nope..

Bonnie,

You dont have to be beautiful, to be all heart!

####

"JAKE," only those who don't think and/or don't feel emotion should hate themselves. You do both pretty well as most here do, and you've noticed it's much much harder to think and feel at times like this. To have empathy and compassion is hard, but right.

MARY S, I can't thank you enough for your prayer. I say it faithfully every day. It has conquered my fear.

Barbaro, sleep well and heal. I am so glad you're safe and sound and getting sounder each day.

Congratulations to Mr. Matz. He deserves all the success, he's a truly great man.

Laura,

That's exactly right! She was beautiful in her own way!

Nice trip to Churchill for Mr Matz and Edgar...

won a stakes thursday and A Breeders Cup race today. Guess the racing gods owed these men a bit..

Mike dont forget Tims Stakes win with RedAspen.. our Fair Hill crew (graham motion included) really sucker punched the big players ;)

Oh yes, Redaspen ran great last nite..And Motions horse running 2nd today(BETTER TALK NOW, he cost me a tri and exacta..lol)..the maryland boys did real well this weekend..

Hello Barbaro,

How are you Honey? Are you all squeaky clean from your bath today? I know you love your baths Barbaro!

I would welcome ANY opportunity to give you hugs and kisses and just spend time with you. But today I felt the need to let my imagination actually feel your mane while you breathe on my shoulder. To hear you chewing your spearmints and watching your gorgeous, soulful brown eyes scan the contents around your stall. Today I needed to do that. Thank you for being there for me Honey.

I hope you're ready for bed Barbaro. Maybe someone gave you a clean blanket for your bedtime tonight!

Pick your spot and cuddle up Honey. Let the healing continue through the night and strength carry you through your day tomorrow. Think of your Mommy bringing you freshly picked grass (in a bowl!), Peter grooming you...

You have so much love around you Honey. Close your eyes and dream the sweetest, love filled dreams... I'll be here in the morning. And thank you for being there for me today. Now close your eyes Barbaro. I love you. Good night. XXOO

Good night everyone,

ShelleyA

I will have you and Mr. BoxCar in my prayers and thoughts tomorrow.

Janice

Proud to be a "fan of Barbaro"

Barbaro sweetie!

Bit late but I wanted to tuck you in for the nite, fluff up your bedding, turn on your nite lite, and whisper a lullabye in your beautiful ears. Hope you have a goood sleep and wonderful dreams, babycakes! Hugs and smooooochies

Prayers for LindaH and all who need them

G'nite Foggy

mike c: thought the same thing as you: that Bernardini was going to make the same move, have teh same race that Bobby did as he made the turn for home - and he did - he waspositioned well - he just didnt have that extra gear, that acceleration, that power that Barbaro showed when he needed it (and that he didnt even need in the Derby)

###Laurie - the honesty and purity of your posts make me feel washed clean. Thank you for that.

Goodnight

Love, Light and Protection for Bobby

In loving memory of Pine Island, Lost in the Fog and all the horses whose names we will never know who lost their lives to slaughter. It's time for me to light a candle for all of them. Rest in Peace.

####

Mary S.,

And your words offer hope and love to everyone, not only Barbaro. Your posts are always inspiring. Thank you.

Good night!

#####
Shelley A -- Hang in there. We are are holding him in our thoughts for a safe run.

Goodnight beautiful Barbaro....

BELIEVE IN MIRACLES
BELIEVE IN BARBARO

God bless Pine Island........

Lindann

Ruthie R, if Gifted Colors doesn't have ulcers...have the vets tried probiotics? Just a thought.

I've owned horses for years but never had the finances to consider a racehorse. Now I know I couldn't do it even if I won the lottery. Just putting one of my girls on a trailer turns me into a nervous wreck. Watching one race? No way.

Gallop in peace, Pine Island.

Barb in WNY

Just another thought about the legacy of horses injured at the track recently... The owners of Pine Island were the same owners who did not euthanize their filly, DANCINGINMYDREAMS, after she sustained an injury similar to Barbaro's. She also undertook months of treatment and is now happily living in Kentucky. The experience gained from her injuries and subsequent rehabilitation undoubtedly have benefited Barbaro. These owners would not have hesitated to save Pine Island if they could humanely have done so. Circles within circles...

Yes Hatchery, all the poor nameless voiceless ones who suffered that cruel ignoble fate who died alone with no one to love them.

We are fighting the good fight.

###

Shelley A.,

I wish you and Boxcar a successful, safe day tomorrow. May he run like the wind!

Please let us know how he does, okay?

Good evening everyone

Just a quick checkin, assuming all is well with our boy

Congratulations to Michael and Edgar on Round Pond's outstanding race.

Invasor was magnificent, but I couldn't help but think.....oh, you know... it's hard to move past that point.

I didn't see Pine Island's horrific injury. I was feeling very emotional as it was, teary-eyed after the showing of Barbaro breaking through the gate at Preakness, the slow-motion, the right hind still sound and well. It was very hard to see again. Hearing of Pine Island brought back Go For Wand's horrific injury and death. Same race too; the Distaff. I think I subconsciously avoided it, despite wanting to see Round Pond. I'm glad to know that Fleet Indian will be okay, but oh my GOD I can't even bear the thought of another breakdown resulting in death. I'll never forget the sight of Go For Wand's horrifically injured leg, or Ruffian's, or Barbaro's, or any I've seen over the years.

I'm sorry for all of you who witnessed it today, and profoundly sorry for Pine Island's people. You are in good company now, little girl. Darlin', Lost in the Fog, Precisionist, Go For Wand, Ferdinand, my girls, so many who have gone on before you will hold you close and guide you. I'll listen for the thunder of your now sound hooves across the Heavens

Love to all

Cheryl

Re: Bernardini

I am not sure I would agree with Bernardini having lost due to jockey error. All the things that Bernardini had never faced before he faced today. 1. He had lots of traffic and had to work for his position. 2. He was finally in a field with horses of his calibre and he couldn't take off from the pack. It was a very evenly matched field. 4. Even if Berni had gotten the push from Javier sooner he still would of had to run down the competition and 5. Invasors stretch run would of still been as powerful with the same results. 6. Bernardini was looked in the eye today for the first time and he was firing with all he had. Invasor just had more to give.

Just my two cents. Bernardini had a great race, I had him in my top 3, But I knew he was beatable if he faced all the things above.. and he did and he was. Barbaro should now clearly be the 3yr old of the year, Hands down.

Posted by: Shannon & Zeena at November 5, 2006 2:45 AM

I ABSOLUTELY AGREE, I'VE THOUGHT FOR A LONG TIME THAT INVASOR COULD TAKE HIM AND HE DID. IT WAS A GREAT RACE, BUT I THINK THE "BERNADINI HOOPLA" WAS OVER DONE.

NIGHT EVERYONE,
LUV & PRAYERS FOR BARBARO & ESPECIALLY FOR PINE ISLAND & HER FAMILY,

CHERYL G
:>)

Debra - WI, hope Bond Beauty is okay. She looked good up till the half way pole, then seemed to fade rapidly... ? Any news?

Lorraine, will look for good experience for your first timer, Ambling Rose, on Tuesday. We hope she has a successful trip, if not winning. Much to ask - !

And, of course, Shelley A : Go, Mr. Boxcar, and enjoy the run. We know you're a winner...

Good Night Sweet Barbaro
Sleep well tonight, knowing that you are loved so much by so many people from around the world. Pine Island's accident really brings home just how lucky we are to have you with us. Thank you, thank you to Edgar for pulling you up so quickly, to Michael for his wonderful training that has given you the ability overcome any adversities that have come your way, to Mr and Mrs Jackson for giving you the gift of life and of course, to Dr R for his expertise and skills in taking care of you. You are, in deed, our miracle.

To Pine Island's connections, I am so sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers and thoughts.

Sharri

###

ALMOST FORGOT, SHELLY GOOD LUCK TOMORROW WITH MR BOXCAR- BE SAFE, I KNOW HE'LL DO GREAT!!

LUV YA,
CHERYL
:>)

###
Bond Beauty was bumped early on, and she fought it out for awhile. Just glad she is safe.

Shelley, Will be watching Boxcar tomorrow, best of luck, be safe and god bless.

Shelley
Praying for your baby Boxcar, mostly that he'll stay safe and healthy, but a win would be nice too.

Bobby
Just as I always feel so thankful for the well being of my own furry babies whenever I see a hurt or homeless animal, after today I am so thankful you are alive .... but for the grace of God! You are so blessed to have so many wise people who love and care for you, and make decisions on your behalf. Stay happy and healthy under God's protection as He continues your miraculous healing. I pray believing and expecting there will be good reports on you tomorrow. Sleep well magnificent horse.

Bernardini lost?!!!! Well that certainly made my day. I was certain that horse was gonna win. And take all the glory from Barbaro.

To those that think I don't like the horse--it's not the horse or his connections. I just simply want Barbaro to have the attention that's due him at year end awards.

I just feel he deserves more than Charismatic got in 99 when he broke down (he and Chris Antley got Moment of the Year). Chris bailed off the horse after the finish line and held that foreleg up til help got there. He said afterwards that he knew Charismatic wasn't right the whole stretch. He said he couldda pushed the horse--won the TC but no horse afterwards. This way Charismatic could be retired and someday maybe have a baby that was as great as he was.

I was gone all day and forgot the set the dvd player up. I read with sadness about Pine Island. It's really awful to see these things.

A few years ago BC was at Belmont. I think it was the first or second race. 2 year old filly comes out on the track (we are 15 minutes into 6 hours of racing) and somehow tangles in that gate that they can push to open and close. Think of an opening (gap) in the fence and they have this part of the fence that is on rails and can close it. Hard to describe to others when you can't see them!

Somehow she reared up and fell over backwards. This is not a pretty site. Her legs tangled in that gate and I was so scared she'd break them just by all her struggling. They showed a replay a couple of times and then once in slow mo. She hit her poll (section right between the ears). They didn't replay it again because it was that graphic.

They brought out that dreaded tarp. It made me cry. They took the filly back to her stall and she lived for several days. She had a pretty bad concussion (who wouldn't). It wasn't until she started having seizures and couldn't get up--that's when the decision to put her down came.

So you know her trainer had announced a day or two before the end that the filly was being retired. That what she had suffered was basically career ending.

I know some can't understand why they put horses down on the track. What happened to Pine Island (I have seen a couple of stills photos of that gruesome scene) would cause most vets to do the "right" thing there and then. Horses have to use their front legs to get up. Yes they to use the hind too--but the front goes up before the hind end does.

I'm not expert but that leg LOOKED horrible.

WARNING THIS NEXT PART IS GRAPHIC

I happened to see on slow mo Go For Wand's break. It was compound with only a bit of flesh holding the lower portion of the leg on. Basically the lower leg was amputated. This is how gruesome and horrible these breaks can be.

Barbaro's injury as devasating as it was--was not in danger of being infected by the track because it remained a closed break.

One reason Barbaro wasn't put down on the spot was because MM got there before that decision was made. Alex talked about this some awhile back. When he gets back maybe we can ask him again about this.

My thoughts are definitely with Pine Island and her connections tonight. Congrats , Round Pond.(we were pulling for you, sweet girl)

Mary S, Thank you so much for your beautiful, inspirational posts. Keep 'em coming. I always try to memorize them.

Barbaro, You are so special. I think we all realized that even more today. You will continue to inspire many of us. (In so many ways)
Thank you, and Keep Healing.

Samantha

###

Shelley A, such great words on the heart of a racehorse, there are many that just love to run, and you can see that. They give their all to do what they were bred for and what they just love to do. Boxcar is one fine example of that. I watch his first winning race over all the time. When he is in front you can see the difference in him , when you saw him in the winners circle you could SEE it in his eyes.. that boy LOVED what he just did, and I believe he will do awesome tomorrow, and I will also pray for a safe trip.. Mom is excited about him and will be watching..

Sorry I have not been on. This week has been a very difficult and emotional one. I lost 2 very special people in my life.

A friend that went through Chemo sessions with me, her appts always were the same as mine.. Sadly she lost her battle this past Monday. Her Funeral was Thurs.. I no more got in the door from that when my cousin called us.. My favorite Uncle died on Wed.. talk about taking your breath away.. His funeral was today and his final resting place is just one row down from my fathers. So double whammy being there today.. Death has a way of making you stop and think and wonder why??

I got to see the last 4 races today.. Sweet sweet Pine Island.. May she rest in peace and be now running in those "Dream Races". I can see her in a race with Ruffian!! (yes there is a book called Dream Races.. MUST READ!!

Alex, can not wait to see your updates on your adventures at Church Hill downs.. Hope you took some pictures too!!

Sweet Barbaro. Just keep doing what you are doing and on that road to recovery. I bet you will be so glad to have that cast off and just wear that splint. I know I was when I broke my leg when I was younger!!

Gosh... Pine Island was beautiful. This is a touching photo of her with Javier Castellano before she won the Gazelle on Sept 9.

God Bless Pine Island
xoxoxoxo

###
Barb AZ and Skyler
Thank you so much and I'll post again.

Late Saturday skritches to undefeated champion big boss horse of forever, Barbaro Jackson!
Today's events remind us that you are indeed pretty amazing...

####
ShelleyA
Good luck to Mr. Boxcar tomorrow!

Cheers
Friar Tuck

I was praying for no injuries. Pine Island, I know you are in heaven with LITF, the MO horses, and all those beautiful horses that have lived a brief life. We love your Barbaro, and our lives our focused on your healing prayers. God Bless You. I was hoping not to see what I saw today. WHY DO WE RACE HORSES????

Laurie Fuller and boys, Luke and Grant

Mary L., I am sorry for your loss. I am glad you are back.

Healing thoughts and positive energies for Bobby, Mike Rea, Erin Brennan, all creatures in need and everyone here.

Laurie Fuller, We race horses cause they love to run. Watch the video clips I posted earlier of Pine Island winning those races and reaching that nose for the wire. She wanted to win, there was no doubt about it. I am sure today, she had every intention of doing the same thing when she loaded in that chute. Accidents happen, what we can do is make sure the horses and jockeys have the safest track possible, the safest breeding programs possible, and the safest training programs possible as well. Pine Island died doing what she loved. As much as my heart is hurting tonight...of that fact, I am not in doubt.

Yes very sad for Pine Island. I prayed and prayed before each race that God would watch over our babies. So of course when Pine Island went down.. I'm just devastated. So many tears earlier. So unfair - such a beautiful horse just doing her job.

Pine Island, you're loved. I'm sorry what happened to you, beautiful girl. Rest in peace.

Good Evening Champ! So glad your safe and sound at NBC, please sleep well and know you are very loved. Today was a sad reminder of just what a Champion you are. Sleep tight, love you lots big guy.

xoxoxoxox

####
Margaret,
I posted about the Belmont Breeder's Cup Distaff accident in 2001 earlier. You gave an excellent account of the accident. I only remembered they were coming out of a tunnel when she went over backwards. The filly's name was Exogenous and the irony of the whole accident is that she was ridden by Javier Castellano (he was thrown that day too), Pine Island's jockey today. I find that to be very eerie.

Good night sweet Barbaro. All your friends will be returning home to you soon. Rest up for your cast removal. Once it is off, you must remember to stand straight and weight all your legs equally. I can't help worrying about the big changes coming your way. You are so special to us and are loved so much. Dream good dreams and mend your toe and grow your hoof. Butterfly kisses from the girls, B, G and me to you, big boss horse.

####
LindaH, I hope you are able to rest without much pain. I am lighting those candles for Barbaro from LSH just like you asked.

Went to ESPN to vote for our Big Guy, and they have a different poll up?

ESPN's Pat Forde had posted a heart-rending article about Michael Matz ("Barbaro, now this...), grieving for Pine Island even as reporters were questioning him about Round Pond's upset win.
http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/breederscup06/columns/story?columnist=forde_pat&id=2649801&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab1pos1

There was another racing injury today, this time at Woodbine which has the new synthetic track. People who watched racing today from the feeds at race tracks saw the horse go down, with all four feet in the air, and then he lay still on his side. Has anyone heard about this incident, and the outcome? I am so praying that this is not the start of more injuries on the synthetic track, and also praying this horse may only have suffered a non-life threatening injury. Anyone?

Two cents:
I watched horse racing all the time as a kid. Then came Ruffian. I didn't watch another race in real time till Mr. Boxcar's debut this past summer. Now I've watched a few.

Today, seeing Pine Island...just like Go For Wand. Same race, same type of injury....I paced around and around debating whether to watch the rest of the races. I did watch, but fearfully.

I keep coming back to a few things: most of these horses obviously love what they do. There is a beautiful photo of Bobby training at Fair Hill this past spring--his face is lit up with joy as he runs.

If there was no more horse racing, eventually we'd have no more thoroughbreds, or at least, very few, for eventing and hunting.

We have thoroughbreds because we have horse racing.

One thing I've learned since the Preakness is that there are a lot of good, kind, loving people in this business.

Let's get the public educated about slaughter, safe tracks, responsible breeding, and most of all, treating animals the way they deserve to be treated. This is what we can do for Pine Island, Darlin, Bobby, Gallant Secret, Easy Strider, and all the other angels.

Good night everyone, you are all so thoughtful and caring, I feel better reading your posts. God bless Pine Islands connections and help their grieving hearts.

Barbaro, and all here who need prayer, I'll pray for you tonight, and every night.
Barbaro, please have a good night, and take care of yourself. We all love you so.

Congratulations to all the horses that won , and pats on the withers to all who didn't.
Shelley A.,### good luck and safe racing to Boxcar.

the legacy ....
before i go to sleep
i might find myself on your doostep,
wrapped in my quilt
carrying a thermos of green tea.
.it has been a veyr emoitonal day
..dear fans of barbaro,
so many wonderful posts..
so many wonderful redemptive moments.
.the accountability isses loom large ..tomorrow ,will deal.
thank you
all and mary
for your prayers ..and all the heartfelt feelings pouring out..
jokeys who are brave and good and in shockl will also do errors and panic..bless htier heartss..re bernadini..who felt it all ..they all did. poeple seem to make assumptions the horse runs and that is it..no. isaw how regal and unicorn out of place looked dear george washington..thak god he was ok..who would want to run on dirt and come in not first/? he is smart .he knew the deal.
.the horse has to alwasy face the consequneces of decions of breeding, training and treatment.
since may 20th, i have friends tape all races that i want to watch so that tragedies can be averted from my eyes and heart..
around four, today,
i was rehearsing and i began to weep..and i have not stopped but i love what skyler wrote.
.in true ruffian spirit.
.that there is a legacy of integrity in many who race their steeds
and in a horse named BARBARO.\
he sacrificed so mcuh for us to get it and others to get it..whether it is breeidng too thin ankles or too dirt tracks or drugs or cruel barn and stable treatment that makes horses ornery and difficult and in pain...all unacceptable to me..
..tonihgt
i place it all on the highest altar..
way above my little mortalshell in the star dust aorund the full moon.

i feel the incence of a pine forest .
.the needles laying a deep blanket for our feet.
.the thick greens ..sheltering birds who nest and gather in the folds..
for protection in the rain and snow.
how sweet and gorgeous was pine island.
.one could see her personality and a favortie wiht barn cats and people alike.
imagine her onwers who dealry loved her.
.i weep as i write this.
.it is absoltuely horrific..
i am beside msye=lf for them and BARBARO..
iHIS FIELD OF UNDERSTANDING BEYOND MY OWN MORTALITY FOR CERTAIN..like a dear poster worte, BARBARO, horse of the world..amen.
am sure ,in the deep of the setting sun..
you felt the thud onto the ground....earth to dust..
i send
warmth of the morning sun to greet your heavy hearts tomorrow..how difficult to see her empty barn oh lord..fill the stall wiht her spirit..may they draw comfort from her toys, her buckets and her blankets all still wiht her scent.. may a soft wind dry your tear stained cheeks
..we hear your pain and we thank you for carrying this great island of innder tranwuility and strength..pine island-- gorgeous horse .
.i am the richer for meeting her even through television..and photos..her
. barbaro, you remind me to keep my heart open..to be wise and to carefully weigh what i can do
in the small dust of my being..for the voices of these magnificent creatures.
lava man you ran a great race..imagine --a claims horse..and some announcers on the espn
have the brains of fleas..
they say the most ridiculouse things..
i honor all horses that came to the breeders cup..and the wonderful standard the edgar pradoi..who can win on even a goat..got to love that you dear fob,
..round pond so good.
so many did so good.
ocean breeze whips through my town..i gather pine cones and place them in a circle.will you walk sometime tomorow and make your own tribute to pine island..from needles and twings and things that stnad above and love and wiht???
.we thank you
pine island..we thank you for your courage and what you had to face
here on EARTH ..
..bless you bless you.
heartbroken
in the light and in the dark
martita

Goodnight, FOB...
Special prayers tonight for Pine Island & Fleet Indian.........

Shelley, prayers for Mr. Boxcar, for a safe day tomorrow.......

Bobby, time to tuck you in. What will you dream about tonight? Is your heart heavy? When your Michael visits you next, wrap yourself around him.

Sleep well and heal under the watchful eyes of far too many horse angels tonight. Be VERY careful getting up and down, and NO clowning. Don't get cocky on us now. Have ACN. Tomorrow will conclude ACW--you are a miracle.

Good night, sweet Velvet Nose.

Good night, Barbaro Nation.

Good luck and safe racing tomorrow, Boxy.

I'm thinking of you, Barbaro, and loving you and admiring you day and night. Your life is a comfort, and a shining ray of hope. God bless you, and all who love and care for you.

martita, a lovely tribute... may someone copy and send to pine island's owners, and we will gather pine cones and needles and twigs with you in her honor, in her spirit, in her name. so many emotions, an empty stall... tears

### Mary in Iowa,

Scroll back up to a post from Sally in Key West and she has the poll site in blue. I, too, found a different poll (something about football) but the blue one worked.

Barbaro, praying for your hoof to heal and to have a successful cast removal this week, stay warm and cozy and sleep good tonite.
I feel so bad about Pine Island being euthanized what a tragic event that must have been, I couldn't see the race today, she was a very beautiful horse, my heart and condolences go out to her family and jockey. Also prayers for Fleet
Indian I hope he has a vet like Dr. R! I think once synthetic tracks are installed in all of the tracks, maybe that will avoid any further tragedies, it must have been like re living Barbaros accident Eduardo! And Michael...Alex..
I know that was hard for all of you to see.

Ruthie- Could it be that Gift might have a food allergy that might cause her to have the stomach problems, has she changed to anything different to eat since this started, maybe a different brand? My prayers are with you and Gifted Colors I hope the vets find out what it is so they can help her.
You know I had an idea tonight, you know how they have Habitat for Humanity for people who need help building houses, I wish they could come up with Habitat For Horses so that people who had the property who really wanted a horse or horses could get HFH to help them build barns or a stable and help with fencing if needed if they had the money for the horses and care but couldn't afford a barn or stable, just a thought
that way people who really wanted horses could make their dreams come true.
Have a good night all, pray for Barbaro, Linda H,Eduardo, Alex, Michael, The Jacksons, Dr. R, MO horses, Foggy, and Fleet and Darlin and Pine Island, Gifted Colors, Star, Alibi, Woody, Zeke,and all who need our comforting prayers tonight.
mary mi

Martita, What a beautiful poem it really touched my heart, I have many pine cones here and tommorrow I will take a walk in my woods and think of Pine Island, thank you Martita for such good words.
mary mi

Martita,
What a truly beautiful blessing you are to us. Your messages are always gentle on my mind and heart. I felt such emptiness this evening for the loss of a wonderful, spirited and gifted Island Pine, but you have brought such peace and comfort to me, and I thank you, dear Martita. I wish those connected to Island Pine, who must be feeling such a painful loss and are heartbroken, could hear your words of comfort.

There is an interesting article in the Louisville paper today, obviously before the BC races, talking about the debate whether to have a state of the art equine hospital built for Churchill Downs. Needless to say there will be added fuel for the argument pro - it's rather shocking to hear they don't even have an up to date first aid center for the horses...

http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?

The article rather flies in the face of those who insist that the horses have always come first.

Martita
thank you for the beautiful verse

My gorgeous ponderosa pine has deposited dozens of cones and needles on the ground. I'll gather some of them up and keep them.

those that stay where they've fallen will seed the soil with new life. They will feed birds, squirrels, their lives will have purpose.

I hope you take comfort in the knowledge that Pine Island's life had purpose as well. Beautiful girl, strong and ambitious. Young fillies will grow to be like her, lessons will be learned from the events that took Pine Island's life.

I can't get over the similarities between this tragic event and Go For Wand's. Both three-year olds, deaths occurred within a few days, ( and 16 years ) both in the Distaff. Two beautiful fillies destroyed by that which they loved most.

There just can't be any more losses

Martita
thank you for the beautiful verse

My gorgeous ponderosa pine has deposited dozens of cones and needles on the ground. I'll gather some of them up and keep them.

those that stay where they've fallen will seed the soil with new life. They will feed birds, squirrels, their lives will have purpose.

I hope you take comfort in the knowledge that Pine Island's life had purpose as well. Beautiful girl, strong and ambitious. Young fillies will grow to be like her, lessons will be learned from the events that took Pine Island's life.

I can't get over the similarities between this tragic event and Go For Wand's. Both three-year olds, deaths occurred within a few days, ( and 16 years ) both in the Distaff. Two beautiful fillies destroyed by that which they loved most.

There just can't be any more losses

Huge congrats to Michael, Edgar, Peter, and the owners of adorable Round Pond! I was absolutely thrilled to see her run away from the field. She was wonderful!!!

Then I realized that Fleet Indian and Pine Island had broken down; my heart broke. These brave horses just fight so hard. That is what makes the thoroughbred so incredible. It is also what makes racing so tragic.

I have loved horse racing all my life. When Ruffian broke down, I was inconsolable. She is my all-time favorite filly. I saw Go For Wand break down right in front of my eyes. I loved her, too. I ran through the grandstand, sobbing, just trying to get back to my seats and my family. My day at Belmont was ruined.

We all know that there have been many others. I don't think I've ever been so stunned and crushed as when our beloved Barbaro broke down in May. I love horses with every fiber in me. I have three of my own and they make my life whole, but it saddens me to read that some want to give up on horse racing, even though I do understand your feelings. Sometimes it just hurts too much.

Thoroughbreds are bred to run. Few people in other horse disciplines would buy a thoroughbred just because they are beautiful. I'm not saying that there aren't TB's in every discipline, but most people don't want that much hot blood in their show hunter, field hunter, or dressage horse, to name a few. We tend to prefer TB crosses and warmbloods that are not so high strung; they can focus better when called upon. I guess what I am saying is, "What would happen to the thoroughbred, in time, if horse racing no longer existed? I love the magnificient thoroughbred, but my showhorse is a cross.

Yes, racing is tragic, yet magnificient! I will keep watching and keep praying before each race. I thought we were going to make it today, but it wasn't to be. Churchill is a wonderful track; but sometimes, sad things happen that we can not explain. Without racing, we wouldn't have the memory of Ruffian, Go For Wand, Barbaro, and now, precious Pine Island. I will always be a fan of horse racing, always hoping for the sport to keep bettering itself, making it safer for our brave heros and their courageous jockeys.

FOB's, don't give up on the sport that made our sweet prince, Barbaro, YOUR HERO. He is why we are all here, every day, trying to make things better for all horses. Pray for the Phipps family and and all of Pine Island's connections. She was so precious to them. They are hurting tonight and they will miss her forever, but they will be back to race another day.

Grieve and cry, but don't quit on this glorious sport.

Michael, Edgar, and Peter, you are awesome! I don't think any mare would have beaten Round Pond today. She really dug in!! Michael/Peter are awesome trainers and Edgar rode a perfect race and you're all special, with a capital S!

Great for Fair Hill with RP and Graham Motion's two seconds! Better Talk Now and Film Maker rock, too!!! Heck, Fair Hill rocks!

As for the Classic, I hope Bernardini doesn't retire. I don't think he's reached his peak yet. He's an awesome three year old, but he wasn't able to match Invasor today. I kind of feel bad for "Bernie" and his connections. He's been in Bobby's shadow for a long time. Maybe they will keep him running and he can be next year's HOY. But, this year's HOY might just be....?

Alex, I hope you had a terrific time in Louisville. You deserve millions of terrific times! You are the best!!! You are the best website host on the planet!

And now, good nite, Bobby J. You are never far from my thoughts. I wish you could have been in Lousiville today, but where you are is just fine. I love you, boy. You are the mostest Boss Hoss, the most handsome Chipper Nipper, and the greatest leader of horses everywhere. Each day is one day closer to freedom.

Good night dearest Barbaro!!!!!

What a day of mixed emotions...
One minute screaming for Round Pond,Prado and Mr Matz ..the next crying my eyes out.

Praying for Pine IsIands' dear peopIe,candIes Iit,I hope someone can post an address.

God bIess everyone,I am happy for Mr Matz,Edgar Prado (whose face when he saw Pine,wiII aIways teII me how much he cares about horses)and congratuIations Round Pond...

Martita Goshen,your post was most comforting...thank you...

I hope you had a nice Bath Barbaro!!!
Iove hugs,nitey nite..

Iinda a
oregon

Good night, Linda. Let's have a better day tomorrow, remembering Pine Island as a courageous and passionate racing beauty, barn pet and favorite. Let's pray for Mr. Boxcar's safe race, and for passage of anti-slaughter. May the sun and soft winds cross your path tomorrow...

We believe in Barbaro, all hearts united.

Good morning everyone.

I didn't see the racing yesterday, but followed the results, so probably haven't been as traumatised as some of you. I'd like to say congratulations to all the winners and of course heartfelt sympathy to the connections of the injured horses.

I was thrilled that Ouija Board won and sorry that Red Rocks triumph was overshadowed by the tragedy in the previous race. I want to link into something here.

Red Rocks's trainer, Brian Meehan, trains at Manton in England - the place where Michael Dickinson began his flat racing career. For some time I have been pondering the link between breeding and breakdowns and in my Googling on the subject found some quotes by Michael who has been working on this subject for 20 years or so. Here is one about the legendary trainer Vincent O'Brien: 'In O'Brien's 28 years of training, only two of his horse suffered a broken leg' and he was very particular about the surfaces his horse were trained on. So is Michael.

There are people in the industry working on this problem and there is plenty of information out there for people to read. I hate horses getting injured, and I am trying to get informed about it.

Knowledge and the will to do something about it must surely be the way forward.

Good morning Barbaro and all FOBs.

I just wanted to take a moment to apologize for going off about that article in the Tribune. It was too angry and graphic for me to post here and I sincerely hope that I didn't offend anyone.

It's just that I have zero tolerance for people who write (and publish) complete lies and fabrication to serve their own agendas.

I couldn't help myself, I feel that what I said HAD to be said.

Sorry guys, will try to restrain myself better.

Good morning, Barbaro! Good morning, fellow Fans!

Heartfelt congratulations this morning to Round Pond (sweet girl!), Rick Porter, Michael Matz, Edgar Prado and all concerned. I know your celebration was appropriately subdued and we all appreciate the incredible irony. I had tears of joy in my eyes at the end of the Distaff when I realized Round Pond was going to win. They quickly turned to tears of sorrow when I heard there were injuries. My condolences to all of Pine Island's people...she was a handsome, beloved horse. And I pray Fleet Indian recovers and goes on to throw some winners.

In honor of all the winners from yesterday's races, I will be making calls today and leaving messages for the Senators. I hope some of you will join me in this tribute to the sport we love.

Alex, we can't wait to hear all about your trip!

Marg
Proud member, Fans of Barbaro

Good Sunday Morning Alex, Bobby and fellow fans,
Good Morning Marg,

I'm looking forward to Alex's comments when he arrives back in PA today. I think the perspective of one watching from the stands might be a bit different from those of us watching on TV. I'm sure he will probably have some interesting little tidbits to add to the big picture too. However, nothing will take away the sadness that all of us feel whenever there is a fatal breakdown on the track. Thankfully, it appears that Fleet Indian will survive.

ShelleyA - I'll be praying for you and Mr. BoxCar. Get ready for your run to the Winner's Circle again.

Have a great day all! Time to get ready for church.

Janice
Proud to be a "fan or BArbaro"

You can vote for ESPN Horse of the Year at

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/index

Well said,Judy B!I love horse racing.If it were not for the races,I would not know of Barbaro.
Breakdowns are a sad reality,but the sport is trying to solve this.
Very sad for the connections of Pine Island.How very ironic for Edgar.I saw his tears,and they were heartbreaking.
I don't have the answer,but we must not give up on the sport.
Barbaro,you are my horse of the year.

Good morning, Barbaro.

I am anxiously awaiting your report this morning.

After all was said and done...the hype of the Breeders' Cup...indeed a three-year-old champion was crowned. That champion was you. Not that you need to prove anything.

Love you...have a great day.

Diane

Barbaro, I forgot one thing...I said a prayer for you, as always, this morning.

Love,

Diane