Alex Brown Racing on Twitter

    Racing News

    Barbaro Updates: 1015 Update 6255: My piece, on Barbaro: Legacy of a Champion... more > (1996)

    Barbaro Updates: 1014 updates are now here. Update 6251: I am making some... more > (1168)

    Barbaro Updates: 1013 Update 6233: Book ordering options for direct purchases: To order... more > (298)

    News Archive

    November 2011
    June 2011
    April 2011
    March 2011
    February 2011
    November 2010
    October 2010
    September 2010
    August 2010
    July 2010
    June 2010
    May 2010
    April 2010
    March 2010
    February 2010
    January 2010
    December 2009
    November 2009
    October 2009
    September 2009
    August 2009
    July 2009
    June 2009
    May 2009
    April 2009
    March 2009
    February 2009
    January 2009
    December 2008
    November 2008
    October 2008
    September 2008
    August 2008
    July 2008
    June 2008
    May 2008
    April 2008
    March 2008
    February 2008
    January 2008
    December 2007
    November 2007
    October 2007
    September 2007
    August 2007
    July 2007
    June 2007
    May 2007
    April 2007
    March 2007
    February 2007
    January 2007
    December 2006
    November 2006
    October 2006
    September 2006
    August 2006
    July 2006
    June 2006
    May 2006
    April 2006
    February 2006
    January 2006
    August 2005
    July 2005
    June 2005

    Search

     

    Barbaro Updates: 124

    updates are now here.

    Update 985: jfrank17 has posted a lovely Tribute to Pine Island.

    Alie, from Kennett Florist left this comment (timestamp: 12:12 am):

    It was a great day in Kennett Square. We just got home from Erin’s fundraiser. And I am happy to report. Thanks to help from many of you. We raise 19,568.00 for Erin & her family, today. We are all beat. But it was worth it. Thank you all so much. Anne & Terry are beyond words.
    Also Rach received a call from her doctor at the benefit. She is now in the hospital. No measurable trace of iron in her blood. She is getting a transfusion. I will keep you up to date.
    Good night & God Bless.
    Alie
    KF
    P.S. Peg thanks for driving down to help us. Hope you got home safely.

    I am now home. Thank you again!

    Update 984: Peter Brette visited Barbaro this afternoon. Dean Richardson had already taken him out for his pick of grass so Peter just groomed him and changed his bandages. Another upbeat report. As we heard from the press coverage late last week, they are planning to replace Barbaro's cast likely early this coming week.

    I'm on my way back home from the Philadelphia airport. Thankfully, US Air honored my November 6th ticket for November 5th...apparently I had booked the wrong date and was oblivious to this until I'd arrived at the airport!

    Update 983: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (saturday). I just spoke to Peter Brette who had heard from Michael Matz. Peter may be visiting Bobby later today so I'll try to catch up with him after I land in Philadelphia.

    I went over to the backside this morning to check on the Fair Hill contingent (Round Pond, Better Talk Now, and Film Maker). All three looked very relaxed in their respective stalls, munching on hay from their hay nets hung by their doors. I hung out with Raphael who works for Graham Motion for a few minutes. So all looks well after their great performances yesterday.

    I do think this might have been Film Maker's last race. Her Breeders Cup record of two seconds and a third is outstanding. It's just unfortunate for her that she ran in the era of Ouija Board. I think it's fair to say that Ouija Board is the best mare to have raced in many, many years. Good luck to her in her final starts this year in Asia.

    I'm now in the airport waiting to come home. (sunday 11:45am).

    Update 982: The morning after the Breeders' Cup. I am planning to go to the backside and try to catch up with the Fair Hill horses. Last night I caught up with Steve Willard and hung out with Giacomo, who is now retired to stud. He looked great after the race, not a care in the world. I also watched Premium Tap getting his bath after his race. I asked his connections about his tongue habit. Apparently he carries his tongue out all the time! I also saw Invasor and Bernardini cooling out. This morning Calvin Borel, who won on Street Sense, was first out galloping at six this morning. I guess after winning one of your biggest races, its work as usual the next day for Calvin.

    It was a great day of racing yesterday, and of course Fair Hill really showed itself well on the national stage. Pine Island's tragic accident is a stark reminder racing in this country has a long way to go in terms of investing in horse safety, to become an attractive sport. As a horseman, you can never get used to seeing a horse lose its life doing what it is doing.

    I will try to get a Barbaro update later this morning before I fly out.

    Comments

    Good morning, Alex. What an emotional day it must have been for you.

    Bless our Barbaro - he is indeed the world's miracle in the making.

    Have a safe trip home!

    Posted by: JudyPA at November 5, 2006 2:06 PM

    Good morning, Alex, safe journey home!

    Good morning, FOB!

    Good morning, handsome Barbaro!

    Love & prayers for everyone!

    Posted by: Tracie at November 5, 2006 2:07 PM

    Alex: thanks so much for the upates and the color from Churchill. Sounds like you had a great time, though Pine Island was a heartbreaker. Fair Hill shined brightly....

    Posted by: Lisa Leach at November 5, 2006 2:08 PM

    Thanks, Alex! You are our intrepid reporter on the ground, not to mention everything else you do.

    I feel for Jeaneanne (sp?). It couldn't have been easy talking about Pine Island. And I well understood why the connections couldn't talk (I know I wouldn't be able to), and Jeaneanne was good about explaining that and not pushing anyone.

    On a happy note - Invasor was brilliant. I don't know why he was overlooked. On paper, he looked like the only horse who really could beat Bernardini.

    And what about Street Sense? He likes Churchill Downs, he's with a trainer who can get there, and he showed uncommon courage coming through on the rail.

    And Ouija Board. As popular in America as she is in England. What an incredible mare! I love the mares who can mix it up with the boys - like Sunline and Makybe Diva. I was happy to see Dreaming of Anna hold her form.

    Still, it's going to be hard for everybody to get beyond the death of Pine Island.

    Posted by: J. Carson Black at November 5, 2006 2:11 PM

    Barbaro, I hope you have had a great Sat.night and great morning. Thanks, Alex, for the updates. Couldn't start my day without them. I will check later to see if Big B had another comfortable night. I hope so!!! Take Care!!!

    Posted by: Amie at November 5, 2006 2:12 PM

    As always Alex summarizes our thoughts the best. I still feel so bad for Pine Island. Thank you.

    I can harldy wait to get the Fair Hill news. They had such a big day. I was screaming for Round Pond. The last time I did that was Barbaro's Derby run. I think Churchill Downs in Michaels' track.

    Posted by: Mary at November 5, 2006 2:12 PM

    Morning Alex - I was so happy for the Fair Hill team yesterday, watching Round Pond and Edgar win. I was heartbroken about Pine Island.

    Big cheers for Michael, Edgar and Round Pond.

    Julie

    Posted by: Julie Bridge at November 5, 2006 2:13 PM


    GOODMORNING ALL...

    GREAT MORNING TO BARBARO....
    ESPN'S HORSE of the YEAR !!!
    You are bigger than that CHAMP...
    HORSE of FOREVER and EVER ....THAT'S YOU!!!!
    SPEED...CLASS...BEAUTY and the biggy INTELLIGENCE !!!!!!
    YOU RULE THE UNIVERSE !!!!!

    THANK YOU LORD for BOBBY'S CONTINUED MIRACLE !!!
    WE BELIEVE !!!
    BLESS ALL THOSE IN NEED OF YOUR CARE ....AMEN


    May the sun shine brightly on all my favorite people...that's YOU ALL...FOB's !!!!!

    ALEX glad you had an enjoyable time at the BC !!!

    Posted by: Maribel at November 5, 2006 2:14 PM

    Good Morning Alex...hurry home ...we miss you!

    Bobbycakes ...waiting to hear! The voting has closed on ESPN but you are the HOY CHAMPION all over the USA! Wyoming and PA had the highest votes for you!!! If you want to check your state go back to yesterday's post at 11:42 and bring up ESPN yesterday and they will allow you to check your state by putting your cursor on the state you want to check!!!

    Liz(UK) Congrats on Quija and Red Rocks...great to have those beautiful horses running here in the states!!! I love/d George W. but it wasn't to be....now he looks forward to making "little Georges and Georgines...:) That can't be all bad for him.
    Hay Jo(UK) If you are here today....where did you disappear to yesterday????? Missed you!!!!

    Posted by: D'Anne in NC at November 5, 2006 2:15 PM

    How could I forget Barbaro! Hope you have a great day. Did everyone see him dominate the ESPN voting for HOY. Last I saw they had over 18,500 votes and he was up by 64%.

    Posted by: Mary at November 5, 2006 2:16 PM

    ***********
    MARY and D'ANNE

    THANK YOU for the updates on the final ESPN voting tallies for their HOY !!!!
    THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN !!!!
    NOW.....IS ANY ONE LISTENING????

    BARBARO....YOU RULE !!!!!

    Posted by: Maribel at November 5, 2006 2:22 PM

    Thanks Alex for all of the updates from the race. I have not been able to bring myself to watch a race since Barbaro's breakdown. So I have to settle for reading ALL of the stories and getting the post results.

    Have a safe return trip and thanks again for all that you do on a daily basis !!!

    Posted by: Amby at November 5, 2006 2:27 PM

    Morning Alex, thank you for the backside reporting. How exciting to see Fair Hill do so well yesterday. It is a shame that one of racing's brightest days had to be darkened by the untimely death of Pine Island. i hope her death will help with better safety regulations for all the beauties who love to run. In every interview yesterday poor Michael could not detach himself from Pine Island's death. I so wanted him and Round Pond to win the Distaff and they rightly did, but for every happy word he spoke of Round Pond, the very next phrase was concern over Pine Island and her family. What an emotional wringer Michael has been through in 2006. Edgar Prado is all class, all the time.

    ####
    Best of luck to ShelleyA and Mr. Boxcar. I will be by my computer rooting the two of you to victory.

    ####
    Mike Rea. I hope you get some much deserved rest today.

    ####
    Erin & LindaH, you are in my prayers this morning.

    ####
    Bob and Joyce, prayers for Bob's upcoming open heart surgery.

    Waiting for those important words Barbaro. Hope you and Peter are able to be together today. Graze, get goodies and grow that hoof. Butterfly kisses to you big fella.

    ####
    I hope everyone can find peace in their hearts today.

    Posted by: Rosemary in NE OHIO at November 5, 2006 2:28 PM

    Good morning Bobby, Alex & Everyone! Bobby, I hope you had a good night and, most of all, a good week ahead. I will be racing to the computer when I get home next weekend to catch up on your cast change, etc. all week!

    Alex, thank you so much for all of your updates and commentary on the Breeder's Cup this weekend, it is much appreciated by us all! My heart goes out to all those concerned with Pine Island, very sad pictures this morning in my local paper. May she rest in peace.

    Have a good week everyone, will be checking back in next weekend!

    Posted by: Ruth Ann - NJ at November 5, 2006 2:31 PM

    The unfortunate accident of Pine Island yesterday emphasizes the importance of the work of Dr. Richardson and his peers in equine medicine and research. My thanks for their ongoing efforts.

    Posted by: Carol at November 5, 2006 2:35 PM

    CONGRATS TO ALL OF FAIR HILL. WHAT TWO DAYS YOU ALL HAVE HAD WITH YOUR WINS AND 2NDS. I SURE WISH IT COULD HAVE BEEN BARBARO AND HE WOULD HAVE LEFTED THEM ALL TRAILING. WE LOVE YOU AND HAVE A GOOD DAY.
    BETTY

    Posted by: BETTY FORD at November 5, 2006 2:35 PM

    Morning, Barbaro! Hope you had a restful night and are ready for some visitors and grazing today. Tell Mocha we said Hi!

    God bless Barbaro, make his hoof grow, his bones grow strong and straight. God bless Dr. R with the wisdom and good judgement he needs to make good decisions for Barbaro this week.

    God bless Pine Island... take good care of her for us.. Foggy, show her all the good pastures....we will see you again, hunny.

    God bless Linda H, BDude, Cahill, Sooner, Woody, Felix, Darlin, Foggy, Star, Opie, Gift, Fleet Indian, Avi, Pio, Dilly, Lucky and all who need God's care today.

    Thank you Alex, fo all you do for us, have a safe trip home.

    Have a great Sunday everyone!

    Posted by: Sue W. at November 5, 2006 2:39 PM

    'morning, y'all~

    Alex, you are indeed an intrepid reporter!


    I learned a lot yesterday and wouldn't have missed it, from the first hearing of it all the way through to the talking about it afterwards.

    It's cool to be able to watch the races and go, "hey, I know who that horse is trained by and where!" adds a little personal touch. Maybe knowing how they behave is why I fared well with wagers on Fair Hill horses.

    Rest well, Pine Island. I'm glad that they did what they believed they had to do quickly, all the while sorry that she was hurt at all.

    Jake, I don't think Jeannine had an easy time of that announcement, either- she teared up.

    Posted by: Anna in Tx at November 5, 2006 2:39 PM

    #######

    Thanks D'Anne..Barbaro kicked butt in every state! Those turf writers better figure it out. The public fell in love with the HOY last May.

    I have seen some pics of Round Ponds win..so impressive. She is beautiful! I also read that Graham was upset that Better Talk lost. Hopefully today he will feel better about how much he accomplished.

    Posted by: Mary at November 5, 2006 2:40 PM

    Good Morning Everyone,
    Alex thanks for your early posts today, hopefully Big B had a good night. I'm glad you enjoyed Churchill so sorry about Pine Island. You are right about American racing having a long way to go investing in horse safety. I hope the people who are in a position to make that happen will. We certainly want to preserve this wonderful sport of horse racing, it's a real turn off to casual fans (and everyone) when they see that happen. Barbaro in May and now this.

    Shelly CA I am shocked that Churchill doesn't have an up to date equine first aid center. Considering all the money they spent on renovating and enlargeing their facility and they don't have a decent first aid facility for injured horses? If that article is true that's shameful.

    Susan E, Great post from you at 5:35. I agree with you, very well said.

    As always Jeannine did a great job with ESPN yesterday. Thanks!

    cindy a


    Posted by: cindy a at November 5, 2006 2:43 PM

    I heard the announcers say that George W. did very well and proved he can be a force on dirt as much as turf. That should do well for his stud value. I was also proud of Giacomo, another horse who was written off.

    Didn't someone say Barbaro ran faster at the Derby than they group did yesterday?

    Posted by: Mary at November 5, 2006 2:45 PM

    Morning Barbaro. Hope you had ACN We love you. Thanks Alex. so happy for Round Pond.Congrats to Michael and Edgar. I watched for that reason. God Bless Pine.

    Posted by: jane at November 5, 2006 2:45 PM

    #
    Sorry Shelly CA Your post said a state of the art equine hospital not first aid center. Hopefully yesterdays breakdowns will prompt action in that direction. cindya

    Posted by: cindy a at November 5, 2006 2:46 PM

    Could someone post info on how Horse of the Year honors are determined and when? Also, how to find end results of ESPN poll. I know people who would still like to participate if vote would count.

    Posted by: Jim at November 5, 2006 2:56 PM

    ####
    Someone posted yesterday that they saw a movie was being made about Ruffian. I went to imdb.com, the movie database, and there is a made for TV movie on Ruffian that will be shown in the spring of 2007. I was hoping it was a theatrical movie, but unfortunately not. Sam Shepherd will take on the role of Frank Whitley.

    ####
    Once again, if anyone wants to sponsor a MO accident horse for Christmas in honor of NBC staff, please go to the forum message boards and check out MO Mamas XMas Sponsors for NBC staff. After you donate, post your name as you want it on the horse's picture that will then be presented in a stocking with goodies to the NBC staff by Dr. Sweeney. Deadline is Nov. 30th.

    Posted by: Rosemary in NE OHIO at November 5, 2006 3:00 PM

    Alex
    thanks for the inside info. I thought ESPN did a very good job promoting and covering the races. My heart goes out to all Pine Island's connections.
    Keep up the good work Barbaro!
    Thanks Alex!

    Posted by: chris at November 5, 2006 3:04 PM

    Hi Alex,

    Thank you. How blessed all of Barbaro's family & extended family is that is life was spared.

    Posted by: Linda at November 5, 2006 3:09 PM

    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

    Posted by: Mary S at November 5, 2006 3:11 PM

    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

    Posted by: Mary S at November 5, 2006 3:12 PM

    Sunday skritches, grass, carrots and appreciation for undefeated champion big boss horse of forever, Barbaro Jackson...! You rock, dude. Yes you do.

    ###
    FsOB:
    Perspective check...Here are a few excerpts from an article by William Rhoden in yesterday's NYT "A Winner Who Keeps Inspiring Victories":
    "One letter [to Barbaro] from "Fans of Barbaro" cast the horse as the inspiration for a movement."
    -and-
    Barbaro's life-threatening injury has indeed brought a number of issues into national view. Thanks in part to Barbaro, anti-slaughterhouse legislation is moving through Congress. "I'm not so sure if he'd gone on and won the Triple Crown that there would have been the interest and the positive things that have come out of it," Roy Jackson said. "There's been a huge amount of subjects brought out from under the surface - changing the dates of races,the backstretch housing, the anti-slaughter bills. There's been a tremendous education about veterinary medicine."
    -and-
    When I asked Jackson if his horse was out of the woods, he referred to something (Dr. Dean) Richardson frequently tells him "As he always says, it's still pretty much a guarded sitaution. There are a lot of hurdles to go through: We're just blessed that he's had some good weeks strung together here without any complications."
    -and-
    "I've been in it too long," Jackson added, in a reference to the sport. "Things can go wrong overnight that you just don't know."

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at November 5, 2006 3:12 PM

    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

    Posted by: Mary S at November 5, 2006 3:13 PM

    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

    Posted by: Mary S at November 5, 2006 3:15 PM

    Does anyone know if Pine Island is a Florida bred horse? With her name, I am assuming she is. I live next to an island here that is a true Pine Island too. Big Pine Key, I would love to put a basket together with a Conch Shell and Pine Cones from here for her connections. Do you guys think that would be weird?

    Posted by: Laura in Key West at November 5, 2006 3:24 PM

    Good Morning Alex! You know, I was wondering about Premium Tap's tongue. I thought maybe he was concentrating too hard! (My kids do that!)
    Have a very safe trip home. Pam from Ohio

    Posted by: Pam Carroll at November 5, 2006 3:25 PM

    ####
    Linda H,

    I have lit three candles for all your groups. I also lit three for Pine, because I know you would want that.

    I am praying that you will be home soon. Recovery is always easier at home!

    Posted by: Barb AZ at November 5, 2006 3:29 PM

    That's so cool you saw Bernardini, Invasor and Giacomo, Alex.

    These magnficent horses deserve much better than what we are giving them in terms of safety on the track. They don't deserve to die doing what their job or what others say they love doing. They may love doing it but their lives are worth so much more!! I'm angry and upset that Pine Island had to lose her life this way. And Alex, you're right, this won't become an attractive sport to the average person if the industry doesn't get their act together - I'm an example of this. Never enjoyed watching horse racing and rarely watched for different reasons, injury being just one of the reasons. These animals are beautiful, talented, magnificent but I don't want to watch one of them die again; it's not worth it to me.

    Daphne

    Posted by: Daphne at November 5, 2006 3:35 PM

    Good morning everybody. May today be a good day.
    Big things for our Bobby this week and lots to do for S1915.

    Martita, I went to bed last night before your lovely verse to Pine Island. Beautiful. I had the strangest dreams all night and all I dreamed of were horses. Nothing but horses.

    Posted by: chris byers at November 5, 2006 3:36 PM

    THANK YOU ALEX for your reports, and congratulations to Fair Hill on it's good showing yesterday's big day. Safe trip home.

    BARBARO, I hope you are happy and content and feel great today with visits, treats, grazing and everything your big beautiful heart desires. (well, except for runnin fas). not yet.

    Posted by: Christine at November 5, 2006 3:36 PM

    Mary: Same distance, same course: Barbaro's time in the Derby was 2:01.36. Invasor's yesterday was 2:02.18. Don't know what difference there was in track conditions.

    Posted by: Lisa Leach at November 5, 2006 3:38 PM

    Thanks for the inside connections Alex, hopr you enjoyed your day at the races!

    RIP Pine Island... glad she didn't have to suffer too much. Condolences to her connections.

    Thanks to ESPN for not beating everyone over the head with repeats and closeups of the breakdown.
    If I'm not mistaken this is a different approach
    in the broadcasting of races... another good thing
    coming out of Barbaro's tragic Preakness perhaps?

    Great to see Invasor run so well... I can't help but wonder if Bernardini got the ride he deserved
    considering the circumstances...

    Much love coming your way Barbaro... you were in all of our hearts yesterday.

    Christian

    Posted by: Christian at November 5, 2006 3:41 PM

    #######
    Laura, no, not weird at all...I think that is a lovely idea...I'm sure they will be touched.....

    Posted by: Tracie at November 5, 2006 3:46 PM

    Good Morning, FOB'S and to you Alex,
    Have a safe trip flying home, and sounds like you had a great trip to Churchill Downs..

    So, sad to see Pine Island, it brought back memories and the gasping sounds so many of us had one other day...my thoughts and prayers to the connections to Pine Island.

    Round Pond..what a race and congrats to Fair Hill...

    And Invasor..what a move..and to Ouija...nice racing..terrific.

    Barbaro....hope you are doing well sweetie...look for update later.

    Cheers to all!!!

    Posted by: Debra B. at November 5, 2006 3:47 PM

    Good morning all,
    I had trouble sleeping last night, thinking of Pine Island and must agree whole heartedly with Alex....something much be done to made things safer for the horses we love so much.
    Even more grateful for the healing of our beautiful Barbaro. He truly is horse of the year. All the trophies in the world can not represent the strength, courage, stamina and fortitude our boy has shown. THE MIRACLE THAT IS BARBARO!!!
    pat

    Posted by: Pat Mendiola at November 5, 2006 3:47 PM

    Good morning, Barbaro. In all the excitement and sadness yesterday, I didn't get a chance to say "Hi." You are very special and definitely Horse of the Year and Horse of FOREVER! You have touched and changed many lives. Your legacy will certainly continue to do so.

    Alex, thank you. So glad you had a good time yesterday. You are our hero here.

    Good morning and love to all.

    Posted by: Barb AZ at November 5, 2006 3:48 PM

    ####
    Laura in Key West,

    Yes, I think that would be a nice idea. I know there is a stable in Florida. Don't know if she was bred there or not. Remembering her is the important thing. Go for it!

    Posted by: Barb AZ at November 5, 2006 3:51 PM

    #####
    Laura in Key West:

    I think that's a wonderful idea..it is very thoughtful of you and I'm sure that would help comfort them..

    Posted by: Sue W. at November 5, 2006 3:53 PM


    ***ALEX am very pleased you had an oportunity to go to BC and take everything in in person."Thanx for the input while there". You are highly informative & we all look forward to your words.
    I could not make it to CD but did get to Ohio's
    Thisledown race track --a highly smoke contaminated place indoors--around 3PM---so much of our time was sent outdoors watching the local action. Was taken to the barn section, petted some horse noses and provided some pepermints. Was in a photo op in the winner cicle for race 10 I think it was--everything was moving along rather quickly--did not get to see Round Pond
    win but did place 3.00 to place. Took 20.00 for wagering. My standard amount. Got 3-$2.00 tickets for Invasor to show; 1 each for Giacomo,Premium Tap,Bernadini,George Washington,Lava Man,Sun King. Betting is not a priority. Rooting for horses and having fun is. Two of the Invasor's tickets were for folksin Canada. This was our first BC. Usually we try to get to the track for KD day but the last 2 years somehow got side tracked with other things and totally missed the afernoon intention of getting to the track,by then it's too late so watched the race at home on TV. Barbaro was fantastic last KD day, to say the least.
    All in all it was a relaxed yet fast moving, fun afternoon. I did not loose any Money.

    Am still moved with the loss of Pine Island and
    hurt Fleet Indian. Two more prominent names to add to the list for enouraging track surface imrovement.

    BARBARO! You have yourself one supper nice day!!!
    SAME GOES TO EVERYBODY ELSE!
    Lee in Ohio


    Posted by: Lee at November 5, 2006 3:55 PM

    Good Morning All

    Thanks Alex, for the news. What a thrilling day it must have been for you to be in the presence of these amazing horses. How we would have loved to be there with you. I'm just so sorry you had to witness that horrible accident. I am so sad for Pine Island and just hope that much will be learned from this tragedy.

    Have a safe trip back and we'll all look forward to hearing from you on your return.

    Good Morning Bright Eyes. We love you so much

    Am planning to visit LindaH today. Will let you all know how she is progressing

    Prayers for safety for all horses and their riders today, especially Mr. Boxcar. We love you, big boy! and your mom!

    Love to all,
    Cheryl

    Posted by: Cheryl Jones at November 5, 2006 3:55 PM

    Alex,

    Thank you so much for providing me so much racing education in preparation for the Breeder's Cup. Even though it was beautiful Fall day here in Arkansas, I gave my horses the 'day off' and watched the entire race. I was so upset about the tragic events of the Distaff, but I felt I knew many of the horses and riders from your reports. I watched the skill that Edgar executed in each race and 'pulled' for him every time he rode. Congrats to both Edgar and Michael on their win with Round Pond even though the race itself was tragic. I hope you have a safe trip home. Your reports have become an important part of my day and my education.

    I'll look forward to the next Barbaro update. He is my vote for Horse of the Year. Did you know one of the national news programs is seeking nominations for 'noun' of the year....my vote will be Barbaro!!!!!!

    Well, I am off for a short trail ride. I'll check your posts later!
    A sincere thank you from Arkansas

    Posted by: Jo in Arkansas at November 5, 2006 3:57 PM


    DO SOMETHING GREAT....

    VOTE TO BAN HORSE SLAUGHTER !!!!!!

    WE NEED YOUR VOTE.....

    GO TO....

    www.kdsk.com

    DON'T WAIT....DO IT NOW !!!!!

    BARBARO THANKS YOU !!!!!!

    Posted by: Maribel at November 5, 2006 4:05 PM

    Payson Park

    c/o Claude (Shug) McGaughey

    9700 S.W. Kanner Highway

    Indiantown, FL 34956

    Address for Pine Island's trainer Shug McGaughey

    Thank you, Barbi1958 on the Forum........

    Posted by: Tracie at November 5, 2006 4:08 PM

    ************
    Laura Supper creative idea. Do it!! Lee

    Posted by: Lee at November 5, 2006 4:09 PM

    Have been all over the ESPN site and cannot find the Horse of the Year poll taken yesterday. Any suggestions as to how to access that? Would love to see the results and how Barbaro did. Thankx,

    Posted by: Ken at November 5, 2006 4:10 PM

    #######
    Lisa, thanks. I knew Barbaro's time was fatser, but I didn't realize it was that much. When do they vote for HOY? We should put together a campaign for B, after the anti-slaughter vote is won.

    Posted by: Mary at November 5, 2006 4:10 PM

    Good morning, Starshine. Will we hear the magic words, ACN, this morning? Every day is precious.

    ALEX
    So glad you had a wonderful time. There were some amazing races yesterday. All I cold think about last night, and upon awakening, was Pine Island. Do I want to watch races again? I think so. If people like us stop paying attention, where's the incentive to improve tracks safety, breeding, training, overracing, and other critical matters?

    The industry needs people like us to keep watching and participating and critiquing.

    LAURA IN KEY WEST--good to see you posting again! Your idea is lovely. Martita had a similar idea as well. It is a very fitting tribute.

    Okay, time to medicate my Felix (one day at a time, just like Bobby). Then, today is Slaughter Ban day. Screw the office and screw the billable hours--I can say that here, can't I?

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 5, 2006 4:11 PM

    ************
    Laura Supper creative idea. Do it!!
    Remember to incude some sand.

    Lee

    Posted by: Lee at November 5, 2006 4:12 PM

    Daphne,

    You are so right in your statements that the animals deserve so much more from us and should not have to die doing their job. What an insane thought that is.Doing their job of entertaining us. The only thing we can do is to keep pressuring for track safety and to personally boycott racing. I and my husband will no longer attend any racing events or watch them on TV. It all has to start somewhere so this is what I will be doing and promoting.

    Posted by: anne at November 5, 2006 4:14 PM

    dear alex and tim,
    thank you for your wonderful posts..fascinating and exciting..
    congratulations for the wonderful showing from fair hill farim and great horsemanship and training prevailes.seeing giacomo so utterly happy and pleased and gorgeous was thrilling..he is goign to enjoy his life now big time..isnt that a beautiful thing.
    you are so right. it is nothing to ever get used to
    ..a breakdown on the track and all other issues involved in the horse racing world. that are not right-- in honor of barbaro
    ..always so mucn to do
    and now the question
    i ask myself this morning
    is what to do about PIne Island
    for that not to happne ever agian..is my dream.
    and the huge outpuring on my telephone machine and emails from friends etc.,
    idearest barbaro,
    may you know today..when your loved ones return.
    .that we all do care deeply for your brothers and sisters in the horse naiton.
    my heart hurts so much today
    . on no grounds
    is it acceptable to hurt or place a great animal in danger,,may her life not be lost in vain.
    and have to yet even worse witness her and many ohters'
    struggle .
    the owners and pineisland's family--i have heard-- and see--are so wonderful they are i am certain
    inconsolable this morning
    to have to face the empty barn and stable and the images cut into their souls.--like my onw and others--
    may i, lift up my little arms to the great one ..for comfort
    tor them
    for all who care and for the work ahead whether it is s1915 or chaniging the turf at churchill or getting the racing breeders et all to take responsibility for their industry.
    the scent of pine..
    i am going into the woods this afternoon wiht you all in mind..fob--the best ion the world..
    to collect pine cones that have dropped.and make a scultpture on the beach that the waves will eventually take.
    some firiends will join me.and otmorrow i face four hundred kids i ahev to have mself together..so they can express their loive for pine island too.
    dearest barbaro,
    may your day be easeful and enjoyable wiht goodies and warm hands to groom you who love you
    we TRY to wipe our tears away
    to celebrate
    round pond and all the splendid accomplishements of yesterday.
    .in the hopes we can make a larger circle to heal those things that hurt others..
    in memory of a great exqusite soul and personality--horse,
    pine island..
    i am so sorry we humans let you down..but i know your owners did everything they could to have you have a splendid life..to prevent further suffering ..to save your magnificent life..you will not have died in vain...i promise..to all my power..
    in the light and in the dark
    martita

    Posted by: martita goshen at November 5, 2006 4:14 PM

    I hope Barbaro had ACN and congrats to everyone at Fair Hill.
    If everyone who is working for a ban on horse slaughter could take a couple of minutes to vote on two online polls, we FOB's could really be a mighty voice for the horses and get the poll numbers up!
    One is at www.kdsk.com (about a third of the way down on the right). The other is listed on the first post under a thread on the discussion boards Topic: Anti Slaughter Issues called "Willie Nelson helps horses". There are also 2 nice videos of the 11 rescue horses Willie has saved from slaughter. Beautiful horses!!
    Both of these polls are super easy to vote in--they don't ask for any personal info or anything. It takes about 45 seconds!! Thanks everyone!!

    Posted by: Ondine at November 5, 2006 4:18 PM

    Ken,

    If you go to espn.com then scroll down on the left hand side to horse...then click on home.....then scroll down on that page and the voting results should be there. You can click on each state and see the results for that state.

    Ashley

    Posted by: Ashley at November 5, 2006 4:19 PM

    ALEX - thanks for your usual insightful commentary, and safe home for you today. I'm sorry that you had to witness such a nightmare, but you also had the thrill of seeing some incredible performances. I was delighted by the American crowd's reaction to the amazing Ouija Board - a marvelous tribute to a true champion from across the pond! Edgar was the ideal of professionalism in every race he rode - no surprise to me. I, too, was disappointed in the ride Bernardini got, although I had picked Invasor to place - just got my 1-2 order reversed. Happy to see Giacomo do well...he never got too much respect as far as I'm concerned. And was delighted that floppy-tongued Premium Tap showed with Edgar after some horrible odds - I've had a little crush on PT since I first saw him run and worried that he'd smack himself in the eye with that tongue!

    Heartfelt condolences to the connections of Pine Island - it doesn't feel the least bit better to me this morning, even after a good night's sleep.

    BARBARO - the overwhelming choice for HOTY - have a shining day befitting a superstar! All your friends will be heading home soon to spoil you again. You are the undisputed CHAMPION OF MY HEART! Nancy

    Best of luck tonight to all who have worked so hard on Erin's fundraisers - there are some marvelous silent auction prizes, so I hope there will be mucho $$$ to help with her medical expenses.


    Safe home to Shelley's handsome Mr. Boxcar today!

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at November 5, 2006 4:24 PM

    ALEX - thanks for your usual insightful commentary, and safe home for you today. I'm sorry that you had to witness such a nightmare, but you also had the thrill of seeing some incredible performances. I was delighted by the American crowd's reaction to the amazing Ouija Board - a marvelous tribute to a true champion from across the pond! Edgar was the ideal of professionalism in every race he rode - no surprise to me. I, too, was disappointed in the ride Bernardini got, although I had picked Invasor to place - just got my 1-2 order reversed. Happy to see Giacomo do well...he never got too much respect as far as I'm concerned. And was delighted that floppy-tongued Premium Tap showed with Edgar after some horrible odds - I've had a little crush on PT since I first saw him run and worried that he'd smack himself in the eye with that tongue!

    Heartfelt condolences to the connections of Pine Island - it doesn't feel the least bit better to me this morning, even after a good night's sleep.

    BARBARO - the overwhelming choice for HOTY - have a shining day befitting a superstar! All your friends will be heading home soon to spoil you again. You are the undisputed CHAMPION OF MY HEART! Nancy

    Best of luck tonight to all who have worked so hard on Erin's fundraisers - there are some marvelous silent auction prizes, so I hope there will be mucho $$$ to help with her medical expenses.


    Safe home to Shelley's handsome Mr. Boxcar today!

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at November 5, 2006 4:27 PM

    First I am happy for Michael Matz and his hard work with Round Pound's feet. It certainly paid off. If anyone can fix a problem it is him.
    My second comment is not so happy as I was a big fan of Pine Island from day one. I know the connections treated her with respect and a ton of love. She was the queen of the barn. From the Phipps family to her groom she was treated with so much love and affection. They were all in shock yesterday as were her fans. I had the pleasure of being around her a little and you would be surprised at what a sweetheart she was. Loved her peppermints and any affection anyone showed her. She reminded me of Smuggler who was the same. Shug does right by his horses and gives them time when needed. He gave Pine Island time to recover from her campaign. The article said it happened (according to her jock)... when she was changing leads. Maybe Alex can expalin who is in charge of that move. I thought it was the jockey who asked the horse to change leads. Can a jock do that too soon or when a horse is not really ready to change leads? She was a big filly so would that be an issue? It seems the two biggest fillies were injured yesterday. I was just wondering. Thank you to anyone besides Alex as well, with any insight on that question.
    Rest in peace you beautiful girl. You always gave your best and we will always remember and respect you for that.
    Pine Island is not a Florida bred. She was bred by the Phipps family. She is by Arch out of Matlacha Pass by Seeking the Gold. She was born at Clailborne Farm.
    She is also a half sister to Chili Cat who Michaels's wife and sister have acquired from the Phipps family. Shug trains for Helen Alexander who is Dee Dee's sister.
    Piney has another half sister Voyage by Rahy and another by Giant's Causeway. Maybe they will carry on her tradition and heart.

    Posted by: Anne at November 5, 2006 4:28 PM

    SORRY FOR THE DOUBLE POST - ANTIQUE COMPUTER GIVING ME AGITA!

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at November 5, 2006 4:29 PM

    Good morning, Champ:
    Waiting for your update! Always thinking of you! God Bless Pine Island! Let's all stay together and get S.1915 passed. Then we can tackle the racing industry. I wish NTRA officials and other influential people could read the posts on this page and the discussion board. They would realize how much racing is loved, but the horses are loved more. The public will demand change!
    Daryl

    Posted by: Daryl Smoliak at November 5, 2006 4:29 PM

    THANKS ALEX! for all you do and all the wonderful reports. We are indebted to you forever!
    Still sad after yesterdays loss of Pine Island but so happy for great races by lots of other horses. Go Fair Hill!

    Barbaro, keep growing that hoof, one day at a time. You are in inspiration to us all!

    Boxcar, safe journey and good racing! We will all be watching! Prayers with you Shelley and Boxcar!

    GO Barbaro GO!

    Nancy in Va Beach

    Posted by: Nancy in Va Beach at November 5, 2006 4:30 PM

    Good morning all,

    I posted last night but wanted to let you know again in case you missed it that our FOB Joyce's husband, Bob, is having open heart surgery on Tuesday. Joyce is physically ill herself so please keep both Joyce and Bob in your thoughts and prayers. Candles are under the group named Bob.

    I'm possibly one of the more reserved "FOB's" but you all really are the best and TWR is one of the first places I turn to in happy times and in sad. It was a balm to be able to turn to all of you after the BC yesterday. Sometimes the "blood" family just doesn't understand the depth of it.

    Posted by: Sam I Am at November 5, 2006 4:31 PM

    Good Morning Fellow Bobbyheads...:)


    ((((Alex)))) Have a safe trip. I look forward to reading more of your account at the BC.


    I have been looking for updates on Fleet Indian and this is all I have found so far..

    From Bloodhorse.com


    "Trainer Todd Pletcher, winless with 17 starters Saturday, said Fleet Indian was stable Sunday morning after sustaining a Fleet a lateral condylar fracture that is believed to be repairable in the Distaff. He said she will remain at a veterinary clinic for three days before being given 30 days of stall rest."


    Dearest ((((Bobby))) Pine Island's death gives me even more reason to be grateful that you are alive and recovering. You are my inspiration have a wonderful day Sweet Prince.

    Posted by: Pat G San Jose, CA at November 5, 2006 4:32 PM

    Susan E -- great point! "If people like us stop paying attention, where's the incentive to improve tracks safety, breeding, training, overracing, and other critical matters?"


    We each have our own abilities to watch or not watch. Your point brings up something important. I'll keep watching, and faxing and calling, but I don't bet on races any more, it's a distraction from the horses. I feel as if people can help either way. We're each following our own instincts to improve the sport of kings where the little guys -- like Seabiscuit and Lava man -- can run with, and sometimes win against, the king's own.

    Posted by: Susan in Saratoga at November 5, 2006 4:34 PM


    *********
    MARTITA...THANKS !!!!

    Wish I could come too!!! What a lovely memorial to PINE ISLAND !!!!

    I think I'll go and look for some pine cones and take them to the shores of Lake Huron today and say a prayer for the sweet girl too !!!

    BLESSINGS....

    Posted by: Maribel at November 5, 2006 4:35 PM

    ###########

    Shelley A....I'll be rooting for Mr. Boxcar to have, not only a safe run today but, a WIN!!!!!!

    Posted by: Ernie at November 5, 2006 4:41 PM

    #########

    Anne,

    Thank you for the background and lineage info on Pine Island, my Foster Daughter and her friends live in Cape Coral so maybe they can find someone to go to the real Pine Island and get some cones. I will check. If not I will go collecting here on Big Pine Key. She was special, I will not forget her, its good to hear that she was as sweet as she was brillant on the track.

    Posted by: Laura in Key West at November 5, 2006 4:41 PM

    ## I posted address for Pine Island's connections in forum and see someone posted here also for everyone to see. One of Shug's exercise riders is a good friend of mine and I am at Payson Park all the time doing travel. I will talk to the connections at the right time to see if they have a horse charity they prefer if people care to send donations in the name of this brave filly. Like Lost in the Fog's connections asked people to contribute to GEVA. I will keep everyone informed. I think they would be very touched as already 2 thoroughbreds in CA destined for slaughter were saved last night by donations in her name to the Exceller Fund.

    Barb m in Florida

    Posted by: Barb m in Florida at November 5, 2006 4:41 PM

    I thought I had wept too many tears to have any left, but martita's love poem and Anne's inside knowledge of the sweet Pine Island have let me know there is no end...

    I still cannot remove from my mind the heartbroken face of Edgar looking back toward Pine Island versus the "thumbs up" of Javier Castellano and his later statement in his TV interview before the Classic that "I'm ok" without a word for Pine Island and her fate. That distresses me so much, and I know it does no one any good to hold it, but the difference is so stark. It makes me appreciate the people we cherish, Edgar, Michael, the Jacksons... SO much.

    Safe run to Mr. Boxcar, please...

    And on the basis of what he has brought to the world of horse racing, there is no doubt Barbaro is Horse of This Year and Forever. Perhaps they will have to have a special category this year.

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at November 5, 2006 4:41 PM

    Laura in Key West - what a wonderful idea! I think you're doing a beautiful thing in Pine Island's memory.

    I love the name, and I pictured Florida. I think I'll look it up and see where she came from. The Phipps family have a lot of homebreds, so it's possible she was raised with them. They had the undefeated Personal Ensign (won Distaff) whose daughter My Flag won the juvenile, whose daughter Storm Flag Flying won the juvenile. They also owned Easy Goer.

    Jake

    Posted by: J. Carson Black at November 5, 2006 4:41 PM

    OMG...
    After I heard about Pine Island yesterday I purposely avoided the media coverage of the Breeder's Cup. I just did not want to see the tragedy.
    I just opened my Sunday paper to the front page section. And there on page 2 is this enormous picture of Pine Island, fallen and the jockey thrown off. Absolutely horrid...
    How awful those last few moments of Pine Island's life must have been. That's what I hate and think about is how scared the Pine Island must have been....
    jan

    Posted by: jan at November 5, 2006 4:41 PM

    BARBARO-I have been missing posting. These new glasses have me in quite the confounded state. Depth perception and seeing close up in weird. I pray that you are still healing and feeling marvelous and that all is going wonderfully for you today, Big Ole Boy.
    ###########

    I am sorry I have not been on. BC was more traumatic,especially with clearer view with my new glasses. OMG Pine Island, I am so sad and so sorry to the connections of that poor girl.

    Linda H.-Glad you are in reg. room, not the ICU. I hope you are following Drs. orders, and not being too feisty!

    Bdude-missed you lately,hope you are still getting along greatly.

    Does anyone know how long it takes to get used to having glasses? Remember, I am 44-this is my first pair.(progressive bifocals) My sisters cannot tell me, they were in grade school when they got glasses. Ho-hum and dang. I think I do not like them too much already.make me feel yuck,and out of sorts. thanks

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 5, 2006 4:42 PM

    Thanks, Ashley, as I spent an hour looking for the poll--didn't click on the right button.

    Great to know that in the public's mind Barbaro is overwhelmingly the HOY whether the industry votes him in or not. 64% of vote is outstanding. My wife and I both watched every race yesterday and enjoyed the spectacle (obviously, excluding the tragedy of both injuries). Having followed Barbaro closely since we first met him at the Laurel Futurity last fall and having been in the grandstands at the Preakness we were a bit disappointed that ESPN and Jeannine did not cover the Barbaro story again. I know they had the "Outside the Lines" report on Wednesday at 3 p.m. but that is a time when most people are working but we were hopeful of a repeat showing or at least a feature on him. We surmised that the Breeders Cup did not want to put any attention on the horse that was not there and instead wanted to focus on the Bernardini, Invasor, Lava Man challenge and I understand that.

    We follow the Miracle Horse's progress every day on Tim's site, occasionally post on the NBC site, have been involved in the Anti-Slaughter movement, are closely watching the synthetic track movement, and also following all the good works the Fans of Barbaro and the Barbaromaniacs are doing. Today was my first post here and I want to commend all of you to the good you are doing in this world by turning the affection and love for Barbaro into things that will benefit horses, bring more people to love horses, and hopefully change the horse industry such that more people are attracted to the majestry of these incredible creatures. Keep up all the good works and remember that B's tragedy continues to bring more good and more compassion for horses into this world than if he had won the Triple Crown!! Like a Greek tragedy play there was a higher purpose to the sad event at Pimlico and it plays out every day in tens of thousands of lives. And, last but not least, "Go Hoof Grow!!!"

    Posted by: Ken at November 5, 2006 4:42 PM

    Shelley, I think Javier was in shock.

    Edgar has been around for a long time, and had to deal with breakdowns all his working life. He skips denial and goes straight to grief. I think of the pressure Javier was under, and I know he was trying to be upbeat because he had a very hard job to do.

    I'm going to give him the benefit of the doubt.

    But no question - Edgar Prado is a true thoroughbred.

    Posted by: J. Carson Black at November 5, 2006 4:43 PM

    I see Anne got the skinny on Pine Island's breeding. I suspected she was a homebred.

    Poor sweet girl. And the poor Phipps family. It's heartbreaking any way you look at it, but to have raised her as well.

    Posted by: J. Carson Black at November 5, 2006 4:46 PM

    It is obvious after yesterday that Barbaro should indeed be three year old champion, as for horse of the year I would love him to be but that will go to Invasor as it probably should. Congrats to Michael Matz and Edgar with Round Pond on their bittersweet win! Thank you Alex - keep up the good work.

    Posted by: Tracy at November 5, 2006 4:47 PM

    Posted by: ssinss at November 5, 2006 4:48 PM

    **************
    SAM I AM...

    Are you talking about our Joyce Moore and her husband?????

    Get back to me please.....

    Posted by: Maribel at November 5, 2006 4:52 PM

    Here is the link to the article about the debate over the need for a state of the art equine hospital located at Churchill Downs. What amazed me, finally, was the comment that they do not even have a state of the art first aid center for horses there. My comment yesterday was - wouldn't that be a no brainer for those concerned with the fate of the horses if they should falter???

    There are also interesting photos with the article.


    Posted by: Shelley in CA at November 5, 2006 4:56 PM

    For as long as I can remember I have been in love with horses. I would collect any and all newspaper clippings from the local paper when the sports page covered racing. My parents would take me to Del Mar to watch the magnificent throughbreds run. Even now as a 50+ my love for horses is as strong as ever. I may raise my Quarter Horses but I still follow racing. I remember Go For Wand, Ruffian, and now Pine Island's last races. I pray for Barbaro everyday. Unless and until they start addressing the tragedy of horses dying for this sport I will never watch again. As an owner and breeder I cannot continue to support anything that takes these wonderful animals lives for man's pleasure.

    Posted by: Tonee Mc at November 5, 2006 4:57 PM

    Laura in Key West, I think sending Pine Island's connections a local gift basket is a such a nice gesture. I'm not 100% sure, but I think the Phipps stable their horses at Claiborne Farm in KY even though the Phipps family still lives in Palm Beach.

    What a heartbreaking day...I've gotten so that my stomach just ties up in knots as they load the gates. I felt so bad for Jeannine having to cover the news yesterday. She has such a good heart and is so professional---I have so much respect for her. And poor Michael Matz and Edgar, they've been through so much yet couldn't even fully enjoy their hard-fought victory. The scene reminded me of the 2001 Daytona 500 when Michael Waltrip couldn't savor his first win because of the dark cloud cast by Dale Earnhardt's death. Such a mass of intense emotions.

    If there's any good to come of this, maybe Churchill will finally be convinced that an onsite equine hospital is necessary. There is no excuse for big tracks to not have such facilities when they're capable of hosting events with world-class horses. The way that millions of dollars are thrown around with such great abandon at the Keeneland sales, it's disgusting that some of these same animals can look forward to being hauled off for a lengthy ride in a trailer after being injured, just to get the care and quiet they need to be stabilized. There's no justice in that.

    Okay, off my soapbox. Hugs and nose scratches to our boy (and to Round Pond!), and many, many prayers to Shug and the Phipps. They're some of the good guys of the sport, so I know they're taking this very, very hard. Bless you, Pine Island---we can only take comfort in knowing that you're no longer feeling pain and are now romping in that heavenly field with Secretariat and Seabiscuit. Excuse me while I go have myself another good cry....

    Laura in NJ

    Posted by: Laura at November 5, 2006 5:00 PM

    Alex, thank you for the updates and the ACN...

    Film Maker can retire with honors - so, she ran in the era of Ouija Board, the best mare for years, and was second twice, third once to her. Doesn't that sort of make her the next to best - in the WORLD - ??? Not many mares could claim that title. Graham should be proud...

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at November 5, 2006 5:00 PM

    Tonee I feel your pain I have to throw in the towel as well. This is my last race to follow. Its to upsetting and a money maker for all except the horses. Barbaro keep getting well we love you in charleston south carolina! Also I found a tribute to Pine Island on You Tube ... What a sad day for her...

    Posted by: Belinda at November 5, 2006 5:03 PM

    Morning Alex -

    Safe travesls to you on your way home. Thanks for taking the time to let us know how our Barbaro is doing today. As always, he's never far from my thoughts.

    Very sad about Pine Island. As much as I adore horses and think racing is something to see, I alway watch with trepedication, always relieved when all are safe at the finish line, always saddened when something occurs. I feel badly for all those close to Pine Island. Very sad day for them.

    Posted by: Pam Mross at November 5, 2006 5:03 PM

    Jan, I dont know if it will help at all, but what I saw in the aftermath, was that Pine Island got up...looked at Javier saw that he got up then looked towards the finish line. She was not panicked or wild from what they did show us on the screen. I am sure that the on-track vets got an air splint on her and probably did give her pain meds and tranqs in the ambulance. Her comfort was the main focus, hence the quick decision that was made. To have delayed that, would have truely been cruel.

    Posted by: Laura in Key West at November 5, 2006 5:06 PM

    HELP - INFORMATION NEEDED FOR SPECIAL PROJECT!
    I have researched everywhere until I'm crosseyed, but I need to be POSITIVE that Barbaro's 2006 record was 6-0! (I've counted so many times that I've lost confidence!) Anyone, please verify so I don't mess up!

    Also, is there significance to a horseshoe being shown with the opening at the top as opposed to the bottom?

    Thanks to anyone who can help - please email me
    mllebutterfly@sbcglobal.net

    Nancy

    Posted by: Nancy in CT at November 5, 2006 5:08 PM

    Safe trip Alex!

    #######
    Thanks Sheila for the link..nice article

    Posted by: Mary at November 5, 2006 5:10 PM

    ###

    Would someone please post the time that Mr BoxCar's race starts...and at which track?

    Thank you.

    Posted by: Otherlyn at November 5, 2006 5:10 PM

    Horseshoe faced up keeps the luck from spilling out!

    Posted by: Christian at November 5, 2006 5:13 PM

    Afternoon skritches (and more carrots!!) to undefeated champion big boss horse of forever, Barbaro!!!!
    ######
    FsOB:
    I think Judy B's post from last night (reposted below) just about covers it...And in the interests of etiquette, let's not forget that the name of this site is Tim Woolley Horseracing: Race Horse Trainer -- and we do have a few owners of racehorses here as well.

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck
    ----------------------------------------------
    REPOST
    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.

    Posted by: Judy B at November 5, 2006 8:06 AM

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at November 5, 2006 5:20 PM

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 5:23 PM

    Boxcar in Race 7... sorry forgot that one!

    He is the favorite

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 5:24 PM

    ##

    Thank you, Mary L,

    I am streaming it now.

    God Speed to Mr BoxCar...and grant a safe flight for all.

    Posted by: Otherlyn at November 5, 2006 5:26 PM

    The link to jfrank's new Tribute to Pine Island video is on youtube:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZhCaBin79o

    I am so sorry we only get to know these beautiful creatures individually when they leave us... Thank you to those artists who bring them to us in all their glory, all their passion.

    Thank you, also, to those who made it possible, for Barbaro, the One we have been privileged and blessed to get to know.

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at November 5, 2006 5:27 PM

    #

    ...it is 12:30 EST,and the first race at Philly Park was just run....

    Posted by: Otherlyn at November 5, 2006 5:28 PM

    Hola Barbaro Nation,

    Champ, today the miracle of your continued healing is more evident than ever. You are my triple crown winner and horse of the year.

    I hope that everyone is well today and may all the horses that race today go home safe.

    May Pine Island's family find solace.

    Yesterday it became evident to me what an exceptional jockey Edgar Prado is. Not only as a rider, but also as a compassionate horseman. I was in shock after the breakdown and to see Alex and Michael's concern for Pine Island gave me some peace.

    Posted by: Marky at November 5, 2006 5:34 PM

    Hello Beautiful Barbaro!

    I know that you know that yesterday was really your day. You are without a doubt, the horse of the year. Bernardini is good, but you are the absolute best. You never lost a race, you have faced the greatest challenge any horse could ever face and have beaten all odds that have come your way, and your spirit continues to thrive. I just adore you, Champ. Had you been physically racing yesterday, I do not believe anyone could have beat the wind as quickly as you would have. Although it's pointless to speculate, they'll say, I'm not speculating - I know. After all, there's no miracle like Barbaro.

    Bless you, precious one, yesterday, today and for every tomorrow in your future.

    Be well and be safe.

    Our miracle
    Our Barbaro.

    Posted by: Mary Allen at November 5, 2006 5:37 PM

    ###

    Dora J:

    I've had progressive bi's for three years now. No prescription at the top, progressing down to a light reading prescription.

    I got them at 44, just like you. I have never really gotten used to them. If I look at something close, then something far away, or vice versa, I often can't focus. I get a lot of headaches. Even now, if I read for 15-20 minutes, it will be at least half an hour before I can focus on any kind of distance. Working at a computer for any length of time (which is what I do) gives me miserable headaches and difficulty focusing.

    My reading scrip is out of date now, I really should have new lenses made, but after all the "fun" with the first ones, I don't see how new ones will be that much better.

    I'd love to say it's been great and wonderful. I got them because I couldn't read any more, but everything else was fine. Well, I have more trouble with reading now than I did before, only difference is that with the glasses, at first the letters were big enough for me to see.

    I hope you have much better luck than I did.

    I BELIEVE IN BARBARO

    Posted by: Cora-IL at November 5, 2006 5:41 PM

    Thanks for reposting Judy B's message--what an excellent, balanced, and knowledgeable commentary on the thoroughbred and horseracing. (I feel lucky to have an older, lazy thoroughbred to ride, but even at almost 20, he can still be a steamroller when he feels like it! Impossible to stop in a mannerly way!)

    And of course ALL of her words about Fair Hill, Barbaro, Alex, and all the connections are SPOT ON. Alex, you and Fair Hill totally Rock!!!!

    Love to all, especially to Barbaro, and all my sympathies to Pine Island and her connections.

    sallie

    Posted by: Sallie at November 5, 2006 5:41 PM

    Thank you, God for Barbaro's comfortable night and continued healing. Please continue to watch over him and heal him.

    Please also bless Pine Island and watch over her family and help them through this difficult time.

    Thank you Alex for your great updates from Churchill Downs. After visiting there in September, I still have vivid images of the backside in my memory and can picture you there.

    Enjoy your Sunday, Sweet Barbaro. Know that you will always be our horse of the year!

    Good Sunday to you all, Barbaro Nation.

    Love,
    Sue
    xoxox

    Posted by: Sue at November 5, 2006 5:42 PM

    ACN Barbaro Jackson , that is wonderful. After all the tragedy yesterday, it is so comforting that you soldier on , undefeated in your battle against injury.

    God bless Pine Island and all her connections, may they be comforted in their grief.
    May Fleet Indian recover well and fully.

    I love all the horses today and dreamed about them last night. It is so cool that 2 thoroughbreds were saved in Pine Islands name.

    Wish you all a wonderful Sunday.
    Remember we can call Senators and fill up their answering machines so all they will hear is 1915!
    Bye for now, BB

    Posted by: Bobbie B at November 5, 2006 5:42 PM

    ###

    Nancy in CT

    I've always heard that a horseshoe pointed down pours its luck over the entryway, and a horseshoe pointed up attracts and captures the bad luck.

    Sounds like either way you hang it, it ends up being good luck.

    I BELIEVE IN BARBARO

    Posted by: Cora-IL at November 5, 2006 5:46 PM

    PINE ISLAND TRIBUTE


    Direct link above, thanks Shelly. Beautiful, sensitive tribute to Pine Island. What a good girl.

    Posted by: Susan in Saratoga at November 5, 2006 5:47 PM

    ACN!!!!

    So glad to hear the Fair Hill horses are doing well today. They will come home covered in glory!

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 5, 2006 5:49 PM

    dear FOB,
    and anne, beautiful to know more about pine island and her wonderful history--yuo ask the questions that seem important , too..so we all can learn from this terrible tragedy..i think tha tis the point for me..
    ..and marible ,sure anyone cane come..
    '
    i find as the day grows longer,
    i get sadder
    .but for bobby's sake
    i feel i got to get a grip.
    i have been shedding tears non stop. asking myself why?
    i dont want to think of blame..but histroy has shown
    the horse does what the rider says.
    .unless you are gorgeous george washington..
    bless him and his fire, too.
    some times we humans dont have the answers or the deeds.
    .i will alwyas rule to the favor of the animal.
    .their ancient wisdom always kicks in..
    i cant see any photos// or film about it
    ..instead i am hard at gathering pine cones for her tribute scultpure on sea cliff beach. i take a brake here ot connect becasue i feel so terrible about it.it is jsut unacceptable and horrific..
    for sabina, lind h- gifted colors. llittle erin,rachel and the hearts of the phipps fam ily.light and love and healing graces ,angel wings and the whole realm of possibilities..to yuo all.
    in the light and in the dark
    martita

    Posted by: martita goshen at November 5, 2006 5:50 PM

    ####

    Nancy in CT: 6 - 0 for all starts (2005 and 2006). Preakness was the 7th start.

    Horseshoes: Ends up to catch the good luck - Ends down the good luck spills out....

    Lisa in CT

    Posted by: Lisa Leach at November 5, 2006 5:52 PM

    Lisa Leach
    Sorry I'm just getting back to posting...been out!!! I hope you are still around..I wanted to thank you for posting Barbaro's time vs. that of Invasor's. (Barbaro:2:01.36...Invasor:2:02.18) Well, it looks like our CHAMP may have taken this race. Same track and condition at Churchill Downs, plus the distance was the same. .... AND our CHAMP had a lot left in the tank too!!! Other factors of course would be how he "felt etc" but in all the races ... he went through slush, ran on dirt,turf, etc. and came out the UNDEFEATED CHAMPION...GO Barbaro..HOY!!!!! LOVE THAT HORSE........:)

    Posted by: D'Anne in NC at November 5, 2006 5:53 PM

    www.ksdk.poll

    current results

    POLL IS STILL OPEN-PLEASE VOTE


    Should the United States have laws banning the slaughter of horses?
    Yes 2718 Votes
    No 1401 Votes
    I don't know 442 Votes

    Total Votes Cast: 4561

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 5, 2006 6:00 PM

    D'Anne: Yes, thought the same - If Barbaro ran like he did in the Derby, it sure looks like he would have had the race going away. Difficult to compare intangibles, but the numbers do tell a story - Any Bobby did it effortlessly...

    Nancy in CT: Sent you an article on horseshoe superstition - Like so much in life, nothing is easy - If you hang horseshoes in the house, it can go either way - up catches good luck, down spreads the good luck around the house.

    Lisa in Colorado (not CT as per my last post)

    Posted by: Lisa Leach at November 5, 2006 6:03 PM

    SamIAm
    Did you get my message the other day that I still haven't received your emails???? I can't understand why??? You are getting mine. Are you getting anything from the system that says that your messages are not getting to me??? Try bdcob@alltel.net It's are old one but is still active and we receive emails posted to that email every day. Let me know if you are still having trouble...as I DO want to know what you have going on...!!!
    Susan E. Just to let you know I have voted!!! Thanks for the heads up for others on this site!!
    I have seen a lot of new names on the TWR today...yes???? Great!!

    Posted by: D'Anne in NC at November 5, 2006 6:03 PM

    Thanks Alex. Been hoping for good report on our bobby. Bobby is winning by landslide for ESPN Horse OF The Year. If you have not voted yet, get going everyone.

    Posted by: jane at November 5, 2006 6:08 PM

    Jane
    Is the poll still open????

    Posted by: D'Anne in NC at November 5, 2006 6:08 PM

    Martita,

    Barbaro has chosen his messengers wisely. There are many here.

    But It is you who speaks for that wise OLD SOUL that we see when we look into Barbaros eyes.

    Leslie IN MN

    Posted by: Leslie in MN at November 5, 2006 6:11 PM

    Leslie
    You have captured Martita to perfection and very nicely said...she should be proud !!

    Posted by: D'Anne in NC at November 5, 2006 6:14 PM

    Alex'
    Happy for the good report on Barbaro! I pray for his continued recovery.

    Thanks for the Pine Island tribute to whomever put it together. Rest in peace, I hope more track safety issues are dealt with as a result of her death.

    Where is Alex going??

    Posted by: cindy a at November 5, 2006 6:23 PM

    Good Afternoon, FOB's!

    Just watched the Pine Island Tribute and its beautiful. Hearing Enya sing my all time favorite song from the soundtrack of my all time favorite movie (trilogy...Lord of the Rings) did me in. Pine Island is a beautiful, courageous spirit. When I go up to work on 'the boys' and 'the ladies' tomorrow, I'm going into the woods and follow Martita's example - get a lot of pine cones and make a memorial to her there in the woods - let the seeds from the cones create new life. The energy of the ranch's land is now changing from one of pain and sadness to opening up of its healing properties and I am forever honored and humbled to have been a small part of that transformation. To whoever published Mr. McGaughey's address, thank you. I'll write tonight and get it mailed tomorrow.

    Congratulations to Invasor, Round Pond, Michael Matz and Edgar Prado - the two men showed their class, compassion and caring yesterday.

    Martita, your posts are so beautiful. Sounds like the quilting circle will be adding a beautiful quilt section dedicated to Pine Island - a beauty who touched our hearts.

    ####
    I met a Celtic shaman yesterday - she was VERY interested in what I had to say and had wonderful things to say about those of us who are caring for and loving horses and other living things...just wanted to tell you about this re-validation of how extraordinary this 'family' is.

    LITF, I know you were there to greet Pine Island and get her acclimated to her new existence. I also know Ruffian, Secretariat, St. Liam, Gallant Secret are also welcoming her.

    Barbaro, its a little bit cloudy here in Chester County, but still nice enough to get outside grazing. Yesterday should have been bath day so you're nice and clean.

    Linda H, take it nice and easy...

    Prayers are out to those who are sad, lonely, sick or in need of comfort.

    Gotta go...have been VERY lazy today, but I need the down time.

    Alex, welcome home. I can't wait to read about your stories...can us locals have a meeting at The Whip to hear them?

    Healing, Love, Peace,
    Lyn Gilbert

    Posted by: Lyn Gilbert at November 5, 2006 6:24 PM

    Precious Barbaro: May our Father, who loves you so very much, continue to fill you with positive healing. May He fill your spirit with patience and peace as you continue on your road to recovery. I pray that you will have a day filled with sunshine and healthy grazing.

    Father, thank you for the "Miracle of Barbaro".

    Lost in the Fog: My heavenly angel horse. You are always in my thoughts and dreams. Loving you and missing you so much.

    Father, thank you for "Foggy"

    Barbaro Team: May our Father give you all a day filled with rest and peace........Thanks for making the good times twice as good and the sad time half as bad.
    May God Bless you and yours.

    Thank you Alex for all that you do to keep us connected to our Precious Barbaro.

    Congratulatios to Mr. Matz, Edgar Prado and the beautiful Round Pond.

    My heartfelt condolences to Pine Island's connections. May she run and play with all the other horses that have gone on before her.

    Continuous prayers and restored health to my friends in need of healing and for all of our "furry family" that need healing also.

    Jeanette Cavalier

    "Please Pray for the Horses"

    Posted by: Jeanette Cavalier at November 5, 2006 6:24 PM

    Cindy a
    He's coming home to us...:)

    Posted by: D'Anne in NC at November 5, 2006 6:24 PM

    Alex,

    Thank you for all your faithfulness in getting us daily updates about our boy, even in the midst of all the hecticness, glory, excitement--and tragedy--coming off the Breeder's Cup. You really are tops! ACN, fantastic! Go Barbaro!

    Posted by: Peggy at November 5, 2006 6:27 PM

    The tribute to Pine Island is beautiful. It breaks your heart to lose any of the magnificent thoroughbreds. Her connections must be in such pain. Prayers and solace to all who loved her.

    Cathy

    Posted by: CathyMc at November 5, 2006 6:27 PM

    I agree with Alex and many of you that horseracing must be made safer for our magnificent, innocent horse athletes. There must be something we can do!

    Posted by: Fran at November 5, 2006 6:28 PM

    Hi Fran
    I heard an announcer talk about track surfaces and he said that the major tracks will probably follow California's lead in polytrack. It should cut dow on the injuries. Time will tell!

    Posted by: D'Anne in NC at November 5, 2006 6:30 PM

    Yeah, Barbaro, another comfortable night!!!!Music to my ears. I hope you get visitors today as I am sure you must enjoy seeing people. I love you and pray for you every day. I would invite you to our Thanksgiving dinner, but I don't think Dr. Dean would let you come.:):) Take Care, Mr. Beautiful!!!

    Posted by: Amie at November 5, 2006 6:34 PM

    Amie
    If he accepts...........
    Make sure you have plenty of carrots and studmuffins on the table!:)

    Posted by: D'Anne in NC at November 5, 2006 6:37 PM

    Hi FOB's,
    Another day another great report on Barbaro.

    The tribute to Pine Island was just beautiful,I watched it with tears. These babies are so young. Too heartbreaking.

    Well Mr. Barbaro,
    How are you today. Bet it's chilly in PA. Have a good day get some grazing in. Talk to you later Sunshine.
    Love ya bunches.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 6:51 PM

    Good Morning Barbaro! I prayed for you in Church today. In fact I prayed for everyone LOL.


    Alex when you get back could you find out if Michael is coming back to Fair Hill before he heads to Florida? Thank you.

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 6:53 PM

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

    Mary: Same distance, same course: Barbaro's time in the Derby was 2:01.36. Invasor's yesterday was 2:02.18. Don't know what difference there was in track conditions.

    Posted by: Lisa Leach at November 5, 2006 3:38 PM
    ###################################################

    Thanks so much, Lisa, for posting this information as I had been wondering also and, yes, the track distances are the same at 1 1/4 for both the Derby and the Classic.

    Not taking anything at all away from either Bobby or Invasor, especially on Bobby's incredible Derby win at 2:01.36, but I just have to get a 'plug' in here for my beloved Secretariat because I just can't help it and hope you will also put up with me on this very proud declaration to put the times in even more clarity and perspective ... Secretariat's Derby time was 1:59.2, a track record which stands to this very day! I am so proud of "Big Red" for his accomplishments.

    Having said all of this, however, I am just as quick and proud to also note that Barbaro's 6 length win margin in the Derby was the widest in 60 years, including Secretariat's run in 1973 ... Bobby and "Big Red" have much to be proud of as two of the greatest champions that ever had the "Run for the Roses"!!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 6:58 PM

    Linnie,
    Nice post. Big Red will always be very special.
    I hope your day is better today than yesterday. I felt so bad for you.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 7:01 PM

    Linnie: I love Big Red as well - I had a poster of him in my room when I was in high school - His Triple Crown Races stand the test of time and still amaze...

    I think the 2006 times are interesting though because it does let you know that Bobby should have taken them yesterday.

    Posted by: Lisa Leach at November 5, 2006 7:07 PM

    ####

    To Cora IL,

    I am an Optician. I work with 40-something Progressive Lens wearers every day. Most often, non-adapt Prog wearers experience problems because of inferior quality brand lenses (you get what you pay for), and also because they are wearing the wrong lens material.

    If you are experiencing headaches with your lenses, check to make sure that you are NOT wearing Polycarbonate. Many Poly wearers experience headaches and/or a "swimmy" feeling. They can even produce nausia in some patients. DO go back to your eyecare provider. Very often just a simple adjustment of the angle of the lenses in the frame is all that is necessary to bring relief. Such adjustments should be at no charge to you.

    Next, I will suggest a good PREMIUM brand of Progressive such as the Hoya GP wide, the Varilux Physio, or the Gradal Top. These lenses have a nice wide intermediate focus area, and are fairly well suited for computer use.

    You mentioned that you have a minimal distance Rx, so I will also suggest a lense called the Shimir Office Lens.(I wear this one most often).

    The Shimir Office lens is designed to be used for intermediate, and near focus applications only. With this lens you have a very wide focus on anything within 10feet at the top of the lens, and a nice wide near focus at the bottom. For distance, you will be peeking over the top of the glasses. I love this lens for use at work and at the computer. It comes in regular plastic, and averages a cost of around $100 for a pair of lenses.

    Also, I always advise getting a PREMIUM anti-reflective coating on the lenses,such as Crizal Alize, to eliminate glare on the lenses. Glare free lenses are WONDERFUL.

    Last of all, please see your eye doctor at least every two years, if your are not able to get an annual exam. The eye-health evaluation is very important in maintaining the best health of the ONLY TWO EYES YOU HAVE.

    Go to a private practice if you can. Most often corporate chains or mall-optical-outlets offer inferior products and services at hugely inflated prices. You will get better quality eyecar and vision products (with better prices) at a private practice.

    Sorry for the long "preach session,"...I just saw that you were having problems that I help people with every day.

    I hope this has been helpful, to a fellow FOB.

    Posted by: Otherlyn at November 5, 2006 7:08 PM

    Even though the Distaff was marred yesterday, I am still SO THRILLED that Round Pond won!!! I thought about her at work all night...well...when I wasn't laughing at what was going on in the chat...and I was still thinking about her this morning. I think I am going to be so happy for awhile because of this win. I am so sorry for the Phipps and Shug M. (sorry I can't spell his last name). And Pine Island was such a beautiful horse. Almost all black!! But I just have to be thrilled by this win. Michael deserved it SOOOO much and I hope he is very happy. I don't want to see anymore tears or being upset, so now I am kinda glad that they didn't show the Barbaro interviews that ESPN did last Wednesday. I only want to SEE SMILES AND HAPPINESS!!! BTW I thought ESPN did a wonderful job with the BC!!!

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 7:12 PM

    ####
    Otherlyn; I just saw your post about eyeglasses. But I wanted to ask you what the best brand of over-the-counter eye drops are. My eyes are very dry and my tear ducts are clogged. Is there anyway to unclog them. I have to go to the pharmacy this week to get some prescription eye drops to use after my LASIK eye surgery in two weeks, but I am not going to keep getting the prescription.

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 7:15 PM

    ###

    If you have TVG they will be showing Race 7 (boxcar's race) at Philly today.. Yippee!!

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 7:18 PM

    I have the Windows Media Player up!! Can't wait!!!

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 7:20 PM

    Thanks Mary L - I didn't see that in their schedule today but I will watch TVG and see - will also have Phillypark up on the puder so I can watch there just in case!

    XXOO

    Posted by: Sally in Key West at November 5, 2006 7:23 PM

    A cute article on Pine Island, although a little sad knowing the outcome. Sure miss that sweet girl.

    http://www.bloodhorse.com/articleindex/article.asp?id=36195

    Posted by: Elana at November 5, 2006 7:25 PM

    ACN again, one day at a time. Alex, words are more inadequate than ever, what you (and Tim) do for us - neigh, for civilization . . .

    Alex, your coverage of the BC during your physical absence from Fair Hill is nothing short of amazing, see, inadequate words again.

    ###############
    I choose at this time not to add to the comments about PI; did my part yesterday. But am constrained to pass along this from Barb M posted earlier here:

    ## I posted address for Pine Island's connections in forum and see someone posted here also for everyone to see. One of Shug's exercise riders is a good friend of mine and I am at Payson Park all the time doing travel. I will talk to the connections at the right time to see if they have a horse charity they prefer if people care to send donations in the name of this brave filly. Like Lost in the Fog's connections asked people to contribute to GEVA. I will keep everyone informed. I think they would be very touched as already 2 thoroughbreds in CA destined for slaughter were saved last night by donations in her name to the Exceller Fund.

    Barb m in Florida

    Posted by Barb m in Florida at November 5, 2006 4:41 PM

    Well, THIS got my faucet going again, Barb m. Managed to stay dry-eyed all day so far until now. SO glad to see those mares in CA being rescued by donations to the Exceller fund in the name of Pine Island. Thanks for spreading the good news.

    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

    ps - risky and dangerous as racing can be, as we have seen - and even walking around the barn (St. Liam) - the leading cause of horse death is COLIC. Life is precious and fleeting, and another good mare left this green earth yesterday. People asking about MHR from time to time, but still not in the MHR Yahoo Group, be advised that Stephanie had to have Tasca, an aged Arab mare who'd lived her last year and a half happily at MHR, euthanized with a twisted gut. Luckily the vet arrived quickly. In the worst cases, that's the best one can hope for. What a life. Love to all - CJ

    Posted by: C. Jaffe at November 5, 2006 7:30 PM

    #########

    To Lynda P,

    I would NEVER recommend an OTC eyedrop (such as Visine or Murine) for a problem such as yours. My best recommendation would be just plain Optical Saline, or a product called OcuFresh Eye Shower. But these are only for immediate temporary relief.

    They will not unclog the ducts. They will temporarily moisturize and refresh your eyes.

    >>Please address the dryness and clogged ducts problem with your eye doctor ASAP.

    Also, most people don't know the difference between Optometrists and Opthalmologists. An Optometrist (OD), can do most everything that an Opthalmologist (OD MD), can do EXCEPT the surgery...and at a lower cost.

    I hope this helps you, my dear friend. ^-^

    Posted by: Otherlyn at November 5, 2006 7:33 PM

    ######

    Well Dang TVG.. They now took it OFF for Tv Viewing!!! It was there when I checked, when I went back to it, it was gone from TV viewing.. Guess they are doing a bigger race now..


    grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

    Oh well, will have it up on my puter (cross fingers it doesn't dump on me by then.. ha ha)

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 7:34 PM

    Alex,

    Do you care to make a comment about the presence of polytrack in races like the Breeders Cup- could it have possibly made a difference in the rate of accidents OR would you like to see turf racing used more frequently?

    Thanks!

    Posted by: Bonnie MacRaith at November 5, 2006 7:35 PM

    #####
    Otherlyn: Thank you. I will ask the Doc about this before/after surgery I guess. They are giving my 3 different eyedrops to use after surgery in my kit, and two of them are supposed to be over the counter. They told me I had cloggled tear ducts when I went in for my eye exam, but didn't say anything else. I will ask them about that too.

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 7:37 PM

    http://www.barbaralivingston.com/gallery/ontrack/judyliners9406

    given all the sorrow today after yesterday's tragedy at churchill downs, here's something that might bring a smile to all of your faces as it did me....

    Posted by: Barbara Kerr at November 5, 2006 7:39 PM

    My Media viewer for Phil Park is horrid. I can barely tell two horses apart. I am glad I can tell the differences in the colors! I should be able to see Boxcar if nothing else!!!

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 7:41 PM

    ###

    OTherlyn. don't know if it is me or puter or Just Philly Livefeed.. I think they have one of the worst ones.. If you try to enlarge it, all blurry in ways.. It looks fine in the compact one but when you double click to bring full screen.. yuck.. Oh well still can watch him Run..

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 7:41 PM

    #######
    Barbara Kerr:

    Thanks, that was soooo cute!

    Posted by: Sue W. at November 5, 2006 7:42 PM

    @@@

    Whew Lynda Glad it is not me then!!

    Okay, Philly has %%%$$$ live feed.. haha

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 7:42 PM

    ######
    MaryL; Hahahaha yea it stinks today. All blury. For me even the little bitty screen is blurry!

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 7:44 PM

    Happy Sunday to all fellow Friends and Fans of Barbaro, and Horse Lovers Everywhere! After a respectful period of time reflecting on Pine Island's death, and for Fleet Indian's recovery, as well as sweating out our wind up here in the Pacific Northwest, I realized that time was and still is, getting short for S1915.

    Therefore, I got busy and Emailed some more Senators. They are as follows: Cornyn, Dayton, Conrad, Coleman, Gregg, Hagel, Harkin, Jeffords, Johnson, Stabenow, Talent, Thune, Nelson of FL, and Salazar. I think that about wraps up the bunch, but I will check my list, and if there are more, I will Email them and get them on the bandwagon to vote for S1915.

    ########
    ELECTION DAY ALERT! ELECTION DAY ALERT!
    Speaking of voting, I'd like to remind everyone that Tuesday, November 7, is ELECTION DAY! Even though we are not voting for a new President, it is still vital that you go to the polls in your respective States and please VOTE! There are lots of seats in both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives up for grabs, so this is still an extremely important election!
    So please cast your ballots, and encourage your friends, relatives and neighbors to vote, too! Yes I have already voted! Snohomish County in Washington State has adopted a total Mail-in policy, so I voted in the comfort of my home and mailed in my Ballot, so don't worry about me. Just make sure you "guyses" get out and VOTE!

    ########etc
    I thought I'd let you all know before I sign off, that I just lit four candles, one each for Pine Island, Linda H., Moe, and of course, Barbaro, Our Top Horse, who started all of this and stole our hearts!

    My best to you, S1915, and may the best candidates win in the election! Laura S. in Washington State!


    Posted by: Laura S. in Snohomish, WA at November 5, 2006 7:47 PM

    Always that way when I have watched it.. just really blows.. I have seen other feeds from other parks that are a lot better.. At least Boxcar will be easy to pick out.. Best Looking Grey on the track!!!

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 7:48 PM

    ####
    sue w -- i thoughtthe picture was great, i have a thing about racehorses and goats....this goat is alot cuter than barbeque was.

    Posted by: Barbara Kerr at November 5, 2006 7:49 PM

    ###

    Yes Lynda P, ask a lot of questions and follow your eycare professional's instruction completely...but DO question if they recommend Visine or Murine. Those two products are NOT healthy products. They effect the capplilaies of the eye,and are overused to the detrement of many patients.

    I am sending you a little cyber-wink.

    Posted by: Otherlyn at November 5, 2006 7:53 PM

    Is Boxcar Number 3?
    There are 2 grays in this race

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 7:54 PM

    Is Boxcar Number 3?
    There are 2 grays in this race

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 7:54 PM

    Lynda, Boxcar is # 3. Post time 3:01, just a few minutes...

    Posted by: Nancy in Va Beach at November 5, 2006 7:55 PM

    Is Boxcar Number 3?
    There are 2 grays in this race

    My gosh, my connection is SOOOOO pathetically rediculous. So much for cable modems.

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 7:56 PM

    Lynda, he is wearing checkered type blinkers and is #3.... 3 minutes to go..... WISH it was clearer!

    Posted by: Nancy in Va Beach at November 5, 2006 7:59 PM

    GO BOXCAR!!!!!! GOOD LUCK SHELLEY AND BOXCAR!!!!
    PRAYING FOR A SAFE TRIP!!!

    Posted by: Debra, WI at November 5, 2006 7:59 PM

    Nancy, Thanks I thought so!! Yea mine is horrid too.

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 8:00 PM

    HELLO ALL ...

    Still carrying sadness from yesterday and everytime I see a mention or read something about Pine Island, it all comes back again. Such an unfortunate thing to happen on what, otherwise, was such a great day for TB racing in general and Michael, Edgar and Fair Hill in particular.

    I am thrilled for Michael and Edgar with Round Pond's win, but it is bittersweet because it was also the very race that took the life of Pine Island so when I think of the happiness, the sadness follows on it's heels. But that's what life is all about ... we cannot know great happiness without also knowing great sadness. It's the Yin/Yang of all of it ... to know black, one must know it's polar opposite of white. Great joy brings eventual great sadness, so we experienced both at the very same moment in the Distaff race yesterday. And my heart went out to Michael, Edgar and Pine Island and her connections all at once. Crying oceans of tears for both for completely different reasons and that made it both more difficult and more bearable for me. Confusion? Definitely. But I also know there was a Divine reason why this happened just as it did and when it did, so I will not question that serendipity of the Universe.

    I also know there is a reason why Invasor won the Classic and Bernardini did not, just as I know there were reasons why so many other favored horses did not win yesterday, yet some surprising long shots did win and even longer shots like Premium Tap, etc. placed/showed in the money. I think it is a message that we should always "Expect the Unexpected" and that "Nothing is a Sure Thing" ... which brings me to my next observation ...

    If, by his win yesterday in The Classic, Invasor deserves and will get "Horse of the Year" honors, then I am also musing that Barbaro deserves "Three Year-Old Champion" and it would really defy all logic for this award to go to Bernardini after yesterday.

    We now know that Barbaro's time in the Derby on the same track and at the same distance as yesterday's Classic was faster than Bernardini's time; that is fact, not fiction.

    We now know that Barbaro is "Undefeated" in all 6 races that he started and completed; that is fact, not fiction.

    We now know that Bernardini has had 2 defeats in his career; that is fact, not fiction.

    The sentimental odds-on-favorite is definitely Barbaro; that is also fact, not fiction.

    The only item on the minus side for Barbaro is something that was and still is completely beyond his control and has nothing at all to do with his racing performance, and that is his inability to gallop on a racetrack since May 20th. So, for all intents and purposes, Barbaro has been 'inactive' for the past 6 months while Bernardini has been able to enter and win all races ... UNTIL yesterday when he failed to win the biggest race of his life to determine his true racing status among a field of his true peers; he failed to win that race. That is fact; not fiction.

    So, we have a horse on the one hand who raced in the first half of the year and who took on all the competition and beat them and was forced into early retirement in a race that Bernardini did win but without the true test of Barbaro's presence. In a field of 20 horses, it was Barbaro won won The Kentucky Derby by the widest margin in 60 years. That is fact; not fiction.

    On the other hand, we have a horse who has 2 losses while winning some races where he really didn't face any stiff competition, until yesterday, where he lost. He did not enter the Derby; he won the Preakness without Barbaro' presence and he did not enter The Belmont. He did win other races after The Preakness but none were proving grounds for him or his talents, until yesterday ... and he came in second to Invasor whose time for the same distance and time and track was slower than Barbaro's. That is fact; not fiction.

    Now I know I am very biased in my passion and love for Barbaro, but even if I just looked at the facts, this is a "no brainer" for 3 year-old champion, and I just don't see how the voting body for these awards can possibly interpret it any other way. Barbaro deserves to be 3 year-old champion for his accomplishments on the track when compared to Bernardini's accomplishments on the track. And figuring into the equation what Barbaro has done for the sport Post-Preakness is something that is immeasurable and transcends every criteria for this or any other award. And that is also fact; not fiction.

    If Barbaro is not awarded 3 year old Champion after yesterday's loss by Bernardini, then THAT will be "Pure Fiction" in my book.

    Thoughts, comments, opinions?

    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 8:02 PM

    Laura,

    Don't know if you'll see this but I think it would be lovely for you to carry through on the basket idea. You know Pine's people are grieving and your caring will help them be comforted. I am going to send a note to the Florida address.

    Posted by: Bonnie MacRaith at November 5, 2006 8:04 PM

    Looks like Mr. Boxcar came in fifth. Important thing is it appears all had a safe journey. Thank goodness.

    Posted by: Skyler at November 5, 2006 8:06 PM

    Something happened to Boxcar in the Starting Gate.. He hit it and came open but he just did not run well.. Hope he is okay

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 8:06 PM

    Linnie @ 8:02 PM

    Your argument is positively 100% accurate. Barbaro earned 3-year old Champion of the Year after yesterday's BC results.

    Posted by: Kathleen at November 5, 2006 8:06 PM

    Looks like Boxcar got 5th.....

    Posted by: Nancy in Va Beach at November 5, 2006 8:06 PM

    Looks like Boxcar was 5th

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 8:07 PM

    Hope he is ok, too, Mary. Maybe the gate opening put him off a bit...

    Posted by: Nancy in Va Beach at November 5, 2006 8:08 PM

    ###

    Looks like Boxcar hit his side while in the Startign gate.. He just did not look like himself running, will watch the rerun again...

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 8:09 PM

    I, too, think the gate opening may have thrown BoxCar off. I hate when there's a horse that won't load and the others all have to stay in the gate so long. I think that may be what happened. In all honesty, I only care that he's OK.

    Janice

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 5, 2006 8:10 PM

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

    Darn, well I gotta get to bed. I will catch up on an update tonight. Gotta sleep. Bye!

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 5, 2006 8:11 PM

    Bye Lynda

    Watched the replay - couldn't tell what happened. Anybody see?

    Janice

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 5, 2006 8:13 PM

    Yep, looks like he hit himself coming out of the gate.. Just saw the rerun.. He usually comes bonding out of the gate and heads into the front, but this time he held back.. Hope he did not hurt himself.. Saw in the strecth that Victor stopped pusshin him and stood up more.. he knew something was off

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 8:13 PM

    Jeez, hope he's OK. I also hope Shelley can give us an update soon. I don't know how she does it. I've been a wreck for the past hour. I lost count of how many times my stomache flipped.

    I didn't see BoxCar come out of the gate prematurely but just heard what the announcer said. The feed was awful.

    Janice

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 5, 2006 8:17 PM

    Boxcar hit the gate and opened the door, did not come out but you saw him hit it.. when they had the issues with that 5 horse not going into the gate and causin problems..

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 8:19 PM

    Anyone heard the future plans for Round Pond next year? continue to race or retire?

    Congrats to all the connections for Round Pond. Including owner Rick Porter. I bought my last 2 cars at Porter Chevy in Newark DE, so, in a small way, maybe I paid some of Round Pond's bills!

    Round Pond... does she have a barn name?

    Posted by: Lois at November 5, 2006 8:19 PM

    ###

    I just hope he is okay and comes out of the race fine.. I still Love him no matter what!! He has such a personality!!

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 8:20 PM

    ##

    If interested, please see 'My visit to Horses Haven' on the message board under Horse Rescue Issues.

    Posted by: joyce moore at November 5, 2006 8:28 PM

    ####
    I had a good feed from Philadelphia Park and I couldn't see anything either, only heard the announcer comment. I do think the horse goes into the gate with a mental attitude that can get shaken when it has to wait too long for the gate to open. #5 was taking a long time to load. I get so nervous when that happens. How long do they give a horse to load?? It seems unfair to the others.

    That just wasn't the enthusiastic Boxcar I saw run before. I hope he didn't get hurt. His jockey seemed to let up on him toward the end.

    Lately I only seem to care if they cross the finish line safely.

    I was hoping for a win for Shelley and Boxcar of course, but there is always another race as long as he is healthy.

    Posted by: Rosemary in NE OHIO at November 5, 2006 8:29 PM

    Oh goodness ... I just read all of the posts about Boxcar's race ... I sure hope he's OK after the gate incident. Looking forward to getting an update from Shelley as soon as she's able to post. Good thoughts and prayers for them ...
    ################################################

    ALEX ... I want to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for your "Field Reports from The Breeders' Cup" ... you are a class act yourself all the way and it was great to get your personal impressions of all that was happening at Churchill Downs yesterday! Thank you!!
    ##################################################

    Thanks to Renee and everyone who commented about my "emotional state" yesterday. I never thought I would be so quickly affected by what I saw during Round Pond's winning race, but the tears flowed immediately and non-stop for quite awhile. If anything overshadows my sadness for the loss of Pine Island, it's my sheer joy for Michael and Edgar, and that's good enough for me right now. God balanced my sadness with equal happiness for them.
    ################################################

    LINDA H .... Waiting patiently to hear from Cheryl Jones how you are following her personal visit with you today. As always, I am thinking of you with positive thoughts for healing and prayers for a speedy recovery ... and, of course, with much friendship and love always!! You are never out of my thoughts for very long ....
    ##################################################

    Now that this racing season is officially 'over', I'm looking forward to information on Michael's stabling of his horses here in South Florida for the winter meet at Gulfstream beginning January. I am so anticipating getting together with a whole big bunch of FOBs to go to wherever Michael will have his horses (hopefully Boynton Beach) so that we can see these wonderful creatures "up close and very personal." So, let's stay focused on doing this as soon as we can all get together.
    ##################################################

    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 8:35 PM

    ###
    Giacomo retired to stud,

    Dubai Escapade is also retired now to Broodmare at Gainsborough in KY. She was pulled out of BC Sprint because of an inflamed ankle. So, shes done racing and off to be a mommy now. Happy ending for a great gal.

    Film Maker has another 2nd in the Breeders Cup, nice way for her to leave. So glad she came out safe and sound. I do recall that this was to be her last race as well. I wonder who she will be bred too?

    Ouija has 2 more races, one in Japan and one in Honk Kong, then she is to be retired and bred to Kingmambo...can you imagine their babies?? $$$$

    Shelley, watched Boxcar, love his blue and white checkers. Hope he cools out nice and all is well.


    Posted by: Shannon & Zeena at November 5, 2006 8:38 PM

    Good Morning To All:

    I thorughly enjoyed watching the races yesterday untill thE Distaff. While I was excitred to see Round Pond edge uop to the front nosooner said when the anniouncer said two horse had been pulled up. Then the win. Someone once said , a few years ago, that "irony is dead". I cant't imagine what they could have meant by that statement. Irony is an integral part of the life on earth experience. How we horrifficly witnesed it yesterday. What a wonderful win for Round Pond and her connections.-- Particularly Michael Matz and Edgar Prado in light of the fact athat on the same track when Bernardini and his connections quietly, sans fanfare won the Preakness-- Thei MM's amd EP's Barbaro had to be pulled up. I ama sure everyone noticed the dismayed expression on the sensitive Edgar Prado's face when he trurned around as was first aware of what had happenned behind him; all the while knowing that he and Round pond were on the way to the winner's circle.

    My heart goes out to the Phipps family, Claiborne Farms, and all of the late great Pine Istand's the connections ( I don't think I can properly spell Shug Mc..... 's name properly so I will leave it as a suggestion of spelling).

    Congratulations to Round Pond

    wow!! that was some win Girl!!

    I am so sad for Pine Island and addmitedly beloved champion and Pet. It reminds me of another Claiborne tragedy. The tragic demise of the also 3 yo filly the late great Ruffian.

    I enjoyed the races; but after Pine Island was, I presume necessarily put down a pall fell over me.

    Whenever the microphone is put in front of Dr. Bramlage and somber faced he informs us that the skin was broken --- well what hope is there...We know what is coming in the next segment.

    Congaratulations to all who one and came home safely---

    Sadness abounds for Pine Island.
    CRR
    Athens. GA

    Posted by: Carol Rebecca Reiss at November 5, 2006 8:40 PM

    This is my first post since leaving you all shortly before the BC yesterday.

    When I saw Pine Island's breakdown, I immediately thought of all of you and how so many hearts across this country were breaking, all hearts joined here together each day in support of love and compassion for all horses.

    Sheila posted the URL for a very insightful article above about Michael's "fortunes" this year. Turns out that Round Pond was stabled next to Pine Island, so Michael and Shug were together a lot these last few days.

    Yesterday I thought I was witnessing a Greek tragedy. Why it seems the Universe has to spoil Michael Matz' victories is just unscrutable, but to see the compassion and concern on Edgar's face, to see Michael's beautiful smile as he congratulated Edgar, and the sheer excitement of seeing Round Pond win was offset so profoundly by such sadness, it just breaks my heart.

    I'm so glad someone posted Shug's address. I've loved the Phipps horses all my life, way back to Buckpasser. Have always searched for Phipps/Shug maidens at Saratoga, which is where I found Easy Goer in his maiden race and became a fan from that point on. Classy people. Great bloodlines.

    As for the track at CD, maybe they should take some of the money that was used for the rich and famous in the new corporate boxes and put it into track safety. In my view, they've physically diminished the twin spires with their new design. So much for reverence for tradition. Let them replace the track next.

    But on a happy note, what a day for Fair Hill! Wow. Ouija Board was so cool, what a mare. And I was kind of shocked that Red Rocks won--this summer I made a "pilgrimage" to the Red Rocks concert venue in Colorado, where I had wanted to visit ever since becoming a fan of my favorite band, the Moody Blues, because of a concert taped there in 1992. So I had to pick Red Rocks. Too bad I only had a paper bet!

    Finally, Alex, thank you for your incredible on-site reporting. Safe trip home. And thanks for ACN for the Big Boss Horse of the Year. :)


    Posted by: Jane in CT at November 5, 2006 8:41 PM

    Was waiting for Tims Something Wild at Delaware, she was scratched.

    Posted by: Shannon & Zeena at November 5, 2006 8:45 PM

    sorry, I meant HE :)

    Posted by: Shannon & Zeena at November 5, 2006 8:46 PM

    ##### Joyce
    I read about your visit and it sounded like Gabby keeps everybody entertained.
    The goat at the farm where I kept my horse, loved car rides. If you didn't close your car door, he would jump in the backseat. He didn't get out till you took him a ride.

    Posted by: Rikki at November 5, 2006 8:48 PM

    ###

    Hi Otherlyn:

    Thanks for all the info. I'm not sure if it applies the same to me, as I have glasses and not contacts, but if so, it is worth checking into. I appreciate you taking the time to tell me.

    I BELIEVE IN BARBARO

    Posted by: Cora-IL at November 5, 2006 8:50 PM

    Boxcar, are you all right?

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 5, 2006 8:52 PM

    ####

    LYNDA, I wish you smooth sailing and a perfect recovery and PERFECT EYES..


    LINNIE, if Mr. Matz goes to the Palm Meadows facility in Boynton with his horses, we'll find out if and when visitors (even crazy insane ones) are allowed. JANICE is also looking forward to meeting FOB's. My mom lives 5 mins. from there...

    Posted by: Christine at November 5, 2006 9:04 PM

    Hey look at this picture, it's poetry in motion. Edgar and our Round Pond, This picture looks awefully familiar wouldn't you say? Just change the silks it could of been B's Derby pic.

    Round Pond & Edgar

    Posted by: Shannon & Zeena at November 5, 2006 9:05 PM

    #
    OTHERLYN,
    Thanks so much for the preach session. I got my first pair of pogressive lens glasses 2 weeks ago. It's an adjustment. Is it normal to have to tip your head down for distance viewing? Not alot just a small tip down. Also reading the computer screen is the hardest thing to get used to. It looks convex except directly in front of my eyes (sort of) it's hard to explain. I do feel like I'm getting used to them I think the main thing I have to do is wear them all the time.
    I didn't get any of the info you mentioned above from the place that I bought my glasses. I paid over $600.00 for these you'd think they would have told me all that.. thank you
    It's kind of hard driving with them too. You have to turn your head not your eyes to find the right spot to see clearly. It is getting better.

    Posted by: cindy a at November 5, 2006 9:07 PM

    LINNIE, if Mr. Matz goes to the Palm Meadows facility in Boynton with his horses, we'll find out if and when visitors (even crazy insane ones) are allowed. JANICE is also looking forward to meeting FOB's. My mom lives 5 mins. from there...

    Posted by: Christine at November 5, 2006 9:04 PM
    #########################################

    Wonderful, Christine ... thanks for posting ... I couldn't remember the name Palm Meadows but I will now!!!! I'm also very close to Boynton Beach so I look forward to it also!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 9:17 PM

    Hey look at this picture, it's poetry in motion. Edgar and our Round Pond, This picture looks awefully familiar wouldn't you say? Just change the silks it could of been B's Derby pic.

    Round Pond & Edgar

    Posted by: Shannon & Zeena at November 5, 2006 9:05 PM

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

    GREAT PIC, SHANNON ... Thanks so much for finding it and posting it here ... and you are so right ... that "pose" is so very very familiar of Edgar and "Big B"!!! Love it!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 9:23 PM

    Hi Everyone again,

    Could someone please repost Pine Island's connections mailing addresses.

    Since I am at the library today and the comuter timed out before I could proof read my previous post --- sorry for all the typos --- I was in a great hurry to get it all down before I would be cut off.

    RE: Pine Island---

    I didn't have time to finish some of my thoughts on what happened yesterday; and how I perceieved the aftermath.

    Of course no FOB needs to be reminded of whtat LOVELY HUMAN BEINGS Michael Matz and Edgar Prado are. It was so obvious in how they were so understated when they were thrust into the limelight vis a vis the wondrous win of Round Pond. What a story of return to winning ways. Michael sure brought her around to her greatness. How sensible the owner was to turn her training over to Michael Matz.

    Am I just imagining this; but when Castellano(sp?) was interviewed on ESPN after his spill on Pine Island an hour before the Classic was to begin he seemed to minimize the tragedy of Pine Island in favour of his good fortune at coming out whole; and his important mount on Bernadini in the upcoming Classic. Ultimately, I would have to agree with Alex's comment last night that Castellano in his over anxiety to vindicate himnself after what befell "him"(not to mention whatbefell Pine Island) in the Distaff was over anxious in his ultimate handling of Bernardini in the final run for the fninsh; which left it open for Invasor to win the race. Someome ( a noted horseman) I can't remember exacly whom it was said that the best horse on any given day wins. Yesterday we watched field after field of highly trained brilliant athletes do what they are trained and bred to do. In most instances it could have been any one of a few who could have come out the winner --- based on positioning and jockeying .
    .
    All who came home safely came home winners.
    There was only one loser; and it was unjust-- and that was Pine Island, who gave her life on the trackyesterday.

    Rest In Peace great beauty and beloved soul.

    CRR
    Athens ,GA

    Posted by: Carol Rebecca Reiss at November 5, 2006 9:23 PM

    God Bless Barbaro
    God Bless YOU

    Posted by: FOB at November 5, 2006 9:26 PM

    ######

    Hey guys, I just heard from SHELLEY... she told me that Mr Boxcar broke through the gate...he was so ready to run and it took too long loading another horse...Shelley said that he did hit his head pretty badly on the gate, but that he seems to be OK...Needlesstosay, this cancelled out any chance of him running well...
    THE GOOD NEWS is that MR BOXCAR is REALLY P.O'D about this...Shelley said "maybe this will knock some sense into him..." MR BOXCAR just wants a chance to rectify this showing!

    Shelley said that she is sorry it took so long for the update, but that she was talking to her friend from FOX NEWS, who came to see MR BOXCAR race, and they are trying to work something out on getting publicity for the anti-slaughter issue...


    It was a bit of back luck for MR BOXCAR, but
    it is good to know that he is fine and chowing down as we speak...They are still hoping that the PENNSYLVANIA NURSERY will be held Nov 18th...Today just turned into a prep race for that event...

    Posted by: Pamela at November 5, 2006 9:37 PM

    Linnie,
    I think we have the same eyes. It sure looks familure to me.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 9:45 PM

    THANKS FOR THE UPDATE PAMELA, WAS VERY WORRIED ABOUT MR. BOXCAR.

    GUESS THERE IS NO STOPPING HIM NEXT TIME?

    Ro & Brady

    Posted by: Rosemarie at November 5, 2006 9:45 PM

    Linnie @ 8:02 PM

    I agree with you 100%. Barbaro deserves to win the 3-year old Champion of the Year.

    Posted by: Maria at November 5, 2006 9:47 PM

    OMG I just saw a picture from yesterday of Pine Island down, her poor ankle. She is so much better off.God will bless her with a good life.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 9:50 PM

    #####

    I haven't read the posts, but did catch SHANNON's pic of ROUND POND...what a beautiful sight! Thanks, SHANNON...

    In reviewing the race with PINE ISLAND I was stunned to see that you could see her terrible accident during the actual race...It happened just after the second turn going into the backstretch...

    I must say that IMHO, I do not think that ABC and JIM MCCAY would have shown the replay of the accident...they were always very respectful of their viewers and would not have shown a full out close-up of the horrific event let alone, shown it over and over...This is just my personal feeling on this....I guess I am saying that it was an exploitation of the worst moment in PINE ISLAND'S and HER CONNECTIONS lives...It was poor taste in the least...I really don't think that any of the MAJOR news networks would have done this...I am especially greatful they didn't do it to BARBARO.

    Posted by: Pamela at November 5, 2006 9:56 PM

    NEED HELP

    CAN'T FIND THE LIST OF ENTIRE US SENATE THAT HAS PHONE, FAX AND EMAIL.

    DOES ANYONE HAVE THIS?

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 5, 2006 9:56 PM

    Ogden Phipps owns Dancinginmydreams she was trained by Shug McGaughey and broke down in a race at Belmont for 2 year olds just before the 2000
    Breeders Cup, she had a severely fractured pastern, she was sent to New Bolton and survived and is the mother of Dancingforever who has won at Saratoga this summer. My heart goes out to the Phipps family I am very sorry for your loss,I know how much the Phipps family loved Dream, they must be heart broken over the loss of Pine Island.

    Posted by: FOB at November 5, 2006 9:56 PM

    ##########
    Skyler....
    just cherish it as I did. There is something about Jack Van Berg and Alysheba.............he is coming HOME. Count on it. Kimmy is workin on it.
    Love you,
    Susan
    Believe in Miracles.......Believe in our Bobby.

    Posted by: SusanW at November 5, 2006 9:57 PM

    I didn't know they owned Dancinginmydreams. Dancinginmydreams has always been an inspiration, and gave us a lot of hope for saving Bobby.

    Clearly, if there had been anything they could do for Pine Island, they would have spared no expense.

    Posted by: J. Carson Black at November 5, 2006 10:06 PM

    Thanks Pamela for the BoxCar update. I was very concerned. SOOOOO glad he's OK. It's a shame that they had that problem loading - I think #5. Hoping for a better race on the 18th.

    CRR - I agree completely with your assessment of Castellano yesterday. When he was interviewed after the tragic accident, he exhibited not a bit of sorrow for the poor filly who just lost her life but just mentioned how "lucky" he was. Contrast that with Edgar after Bobby's accident. What a bad image for the sport.

    How awesome that ShelleyA is talking to a reporter about S1915. Perfect timing.

    I noticed there is some mention of the FOB's visiting Palm Meadows. Count me in. Does anyone know when MM is heading south? Does anyone know exactly where Palm Meadows is?

    Janice
    A Proud "fan of Barbaro"

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 5, 2006 10:07 PM

    ##

    SusanW, and when Alysheba does come home, we must plan a visit to see him!

    Posted by: Skyler at November 5, 2006 10:10 PM

    ## Susan at 5:47
    Just watched the Pine Island tribute and cried all the way through. It is very moving, and a wonderful tribute to her and her ability.God bless her soul in heaven. And bless her connections.

    Barbaro, I'm so glad you are here with us, so glad. Lead on and we will follow. Love, BB

    Posted by: Bobbie B at November 5, 2006 10:12 PM

    I still say Barbaro for horse of the year. Barabro would have beaten that time yesterday. We all know it. It must be so hard for the Jacksons and Michael Matz to hear them brush off B's accomplishments when you know he was better than all of them.

    He beter get 3yr. old of the year. Barbaro was the real deal.

    Posted by: Mary at November 5, 2006 10:17 PM

    ###
    Shannon I just saw the beautiful pic, it puts into words what this sport can mean. Perfect connection between a gifted man and a champion. Thank you, it lifts my spirit. Makes me think of Barbaro.

    I am glad Mr. Boxcar is okay.

    Sleep well champ, every race this weekend made me think of you. Every thought of you comforted me. Groof that hoof big Boss.

    Posted by: Marky at November 5, 2006 10:17 PM

    NEED HELP

    CAN'T FIND THE LIST OF ENTIRE US SENATE THAT HAS PHONE, FAX AND EMAIL.

    DOES ANYONE HAVE THIS?

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 5, 2006 9:56 PM

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 5, 2006 10:18 PM

    #####

    Susan E...I have the list that has the phone and fax numbers, but not the emails...I have called SHELLEY to tell her you need this...She is on the other line and will get back ASAP....

    Posted by: Pamela at November 5, 2006 10:21 PM

    FOB's!

    ####
    the latest re Avi - this is an example of Spirit providing what is needed. He will be coming to live in a field next to his owner's landlord's beautiful home. She's found all the fencing materials she needs in the barn on the property so we're going to get a group of people to put up the fencing and get him home. She can walk to be with him every day, the land is level and now we can focus on healing him for whatever time he wants to be here (he's 21).

    It all worked out and like I said before, I give a lot of credit to The Barbaro Effect.

    Thank you all again for the candles, the prayers, the support. You are all the greatest 'family'.

    LITF, you and the other horse angels shine in the sky, my Long Time Sun.

    Barbaro, its getting dark out now so you have to think about getting all tucked in and warm for the night. Sleep long, sleep deep and dream of the time when you go home to your MOM!!!!

    Goodnight, everybody! Will try to get on chat later.

    Healing, Love, Peace,
    Lyn Gilbert

    Prayers to those who are sad, sick, alone or in pain.

    Posted by: Lyn Gilbert at November 5, 2006 10:24 PM

    Just to let the Florida FsOB know - I found the Palm Meadows information. Already printed out map and directions. So - all we need is a date.

    Janice

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 5, 2006 10:25 PM

    ##

    Lyn, excellent news about Avi! This makes my day! What a sweet, gentle boy.

    Posted by: Skyler at November 5, 2006 10:28 PM

    Lyn
    Wonderful news about Avi!

    Shelley
    I am so glad Mr. Boxcar is okay. Sorry he did not get to run today... :(

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at November 5, 2006 10:31 PM

    Posted by: Senators' Contact List at November 5, 2006 10:31 PM

    Posted by: Senators' Contact List at November 5, 2006 10:32 PM

    Posted by: Senators' Contact List at November 5, 2006 10:33 PM

    Thanks, Pam and Shelley!

    Lyn, that is FANTASTIC news about Avi!

    MARIE from ATL--you posted earlier. Meant to ask, how's April?

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 5, 2006 10:33 PM

    I haven't read the posts, but did catch SHANNON's pic of ROUND POND...what a beautiful sight! Thanks, SHANNON...

    In reviewing the race with PINE ISLAND I was stunned to see that you could see her terrible accident during the actual race...It happened just after the second turn going into the backstretch...

    I must say that IMHO, I do not think that ABC and JIM MCCAY would have shown the replay of the accident...they were always very respectful of their viewers and would not have shown a full out close-up of the horrific event let alone, shown it over and over...This is just my personal feeling on this....I guess I am saying that it was an exploitation of the worst moment in PINE ISLAND'S and HER CONNECTIONS lives...It was poor taste in the least...I really don't think that any of the MAJOR news networks would have done this...I am especially greatful they didn't do it to BARBARO.

    Posted by: Pamela at November 5, 2006 9:56 PM
    ###################################################

    Hi Pamela ...

    I am a little confused by your post, and if you could enlighten me on it, I would really appreciate it ...

    Yes, as we were watching the race yesterday, we could see what happened to Pine Island because all of the TV cameras were focused on the track and the field of runners, as it should have been. I don't think we disagree on that point.

    You mention that in your opinion, you don't think that Jim McKay and ABC would have shown a replay of the accident up close and over and over. This is where I am very confused by your comments. Why did you compare ESPN to Jim McKay and ABC? If I remember correctly during the 1972 Munich Olympics which were telecast on ABC, they did show over and over and over again the atrocities that were taking place in Olympic Village. Why? Because it was newsworthy and that's, unfortunately, what they are in business to bring us ... good or bad, they have to report the current news, whatever that is.

    I watched ESPN all day long yesterday and, personally speaking, I did not see them using 'overkill' at all regarding the incident involving Pine Island and Fleet Indian. Once it was reported and noticed, however, they have an obligation to show us what happened. They are in the broadcasting business of televising Sporting events ... this is their livelihood ... Sports. This unfortunate story was a big one as it happened not only during The Breeders Cup yesterday ... BUT, even more unfortunately, it occurred during the very race that Michael Matz' trained horse, Round Pond, won, with Edgar up. The similarities and comparisons were eerily reminiscent of that day at The Preakness on May 20th. As much as we wanted to, no one could pretend that what was happening yesterday didn't remind each and every one of us of Barbaro. And that was newsworthy because it involved the same trainer and rider when Barbaro suffered his unfortunate accident, and it was during this Distaff Race that all of this occurred. ESPN was almost 'duty-bound' to cover it. But it was definitely not overkill and it was not done for the sake of showing us something horrific over and over again. In fact, several posters here last night mentioned that they felt that ESPN was very cautious in their coverage; I agree with that as well.

    All of the commentators as well as Jeannine were visibly shaken and upset by what happened, and their demeanors changed almost instantly as did the mood of everyone else. They treated the incident with all due respect and they covered it as they should have.

    You bring up ABC and Jim McKay who hasn't been commentating sports for a number of years now, and I am just puzzled as to why you make that comparison. Why not cite NBC or CBS and their sports crews? ESPN is a Sports Network ... people watch it because they get the best coverage of sports news on television. They don't cover things like 9/11, but networks like ABC does. Do you know how many times ABC showed the crashing of the two jets into the Twin Towers on and after 9/11, killing thousands of people? What about NBC or CBS? How many times did they show it? Or what about the "Shock & Awe" campaign that started the War in Iraq? How many times was that shown on the major networks? And, how many times do you think any of this was shown on ESPN?

    The point is that all of these networks cover a variety of news issues ... but ESPN IS Sports, and that's why they must cover all sporting events in depth, completely and often. To do less would be a lack of responsibility for what their network stands for.

    But overkill? I think not ... just cautious but responsible reporting of a story that was, unfortunately, a pivotal 'connection' to one of the biggest sporting days in TB racing, and one, by the way, that ESPN devoted over 6 hours of network time to ... just to satisfy the racing fans who wanted to see it, wire to wire.

    Anyway, that's my 2 cents ...

    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 10:39 PM

    ####

    JANICE, I mentioned you in my post to Linnie! I know you mentioned you want to meet friends of Barbaro in FLA...

    If only Mr. Matz takes B to Florida....WOW! But I can't imagine Dr. R giving him up any time soon... You never know..

    Anyway, for you and Linnie - Boynton Beach Blvd runs east and west. You can get it by going north for Linnie, or south for you on Jog Road or Military Trail. Take Boynton Beach Blvd west, down toward the Florida Tpke, make a right onto Lyons Road and Palm Meadows is right there.

    Posted by: Christine at November 5, 2006 10:42 PM

    ###
    FOBs - need your advice. My dogs just got into it - I've got a 10 yr old pointer who refused to concede being the alpha dog and a 2 yr old choc lab who is generally laid back, but just now my pointer snapped at him, and the lab responded by biting the pointer on the left hind. He has punctured the skin - no profuse bleeding but definitely a puncture. The pointer is laying on his bed nursing a hurt ego - doesn't appear to be in pain but is definitely shaken up. I don't really know if I should do anything with the wound - and cannot really afford an emergency Sunday evening visit to the animal hospital. Does anyone have any advice?

    Posted by: Sheila at November 5, 2006 10:45 PM

    Posted by: Senators' Contact List at November 5, 2006 10:48 PM

    Posted by: Senators' Contact List at November 5, 2006 10:50 PM

    Evening skritches, carrots, grass, etc. to undefeated champion big boss horse of forever,
    Barbaro Jackson!
    ###
    Sheila:
    Just clean it up (betadine solution if you have, or 1/2 water-1/2 hydrogen peroxide solution.)
    Everybody will be fine...[and pass around the Rescue Remedy if you happen to have...four drops each -- you too.]

    Cheers,
    Friar Tuck

    Posted by: Friar Tuck at November 5, 2006 10:53 PM

    Lyn,
    Great news about Avi.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 10:57 PM

    Thanks Friar Tuck. And I'm all out of red wine after last night's trial - was looking forward to a mellow evening until this happened. Maybe I am more hurt than the dog is - will go get the peroxide right now.

    Posted by: Sheila at November 5, 2006 11:00 PM

    Martita,
    What a pleasure to read you post at this peaceful time of the day for me.

    George Washington has a lot of fire to let go of. LOL

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 11:05 PM

    Hi All: Just an update on my little girl Rosie a.k.a Ambling Rose. She is running this Tuesday at Meadowlands in the 5th race. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers that she has a safe trip home. She's the # 5 in the fifth race. She is making her debut in a 6 furlong maiden special. She's never broken out of the gate with more than one other horse. Right now eight are listed to go. I don't know how she is going to react. As I have stated before she will beat anything but as soon as she gets past she stops. Hopefully the other horses will hold her interest. She is as sweet as can be and I just love her so much. I'll be there with her Tuesday as the nervous parent letting my little two year old baby go out on her own for the first time. Hopefully, I can join her in the winner's circle. Keep your fingers crossed.

    Posted by: lorraine S. Staten Island,NY at November 5, 2006 11:06 PM

    FOR JANICE & CHRISTINE ...


    Just to let the Florida FsOB know - I found the Palm Meadows information. Already printed out map and directions. So - all we need is a date.

    Janice

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 5, 2006 10:25 PM

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

    LINNIE, if Mr. Matz goes to the Palm Meadows facility in Boynton with his horses, we'll find out if and when visitors (even crazy insane ones) are allowed. JANICE is also looking forward to meeting FOB's. My mom lives 5 mins. from there...

    Posted by: Christine at November 5, 2006 9:04 PM

    JANICE, I mentioned you in my post to Linnie! I know you mentioned you want to meet friends of Barbaro in FLA...

    If only Mr. Matz takes B to Florida....WOW! But I can't imagine Dr. R giving him up any time soon... You never know..

    Anyway, for you and Linnie - Boynton Beach Blvd runs east and west. You can get it by going north for Linnie, or south for you on Jog Road or Military Trail. Take Boynton Beach Blvd west, down toward the Florida Tpke, make a right onto Lyons Road and Palm Meadows is right there.

    Posted by: Christine at November 5, 2006 10:42 PM

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

    Janice, if there is a more organized efficient person on this planet, I haven't met him or her yet. You are incredible!! Thank you so much for already having the map, directions, etc.!!

    Christine,

    This is SO CLOSE to where I live ... and I know the Boynton Beach Blvd. area so well because I go to that mall every single week!!! This is almost a hop, skip and a jump for me! And I look so forward to meeting you also!!!

    OMG ... IF THE BIG B spends ANY time in the beautiful, balmy, warm climate of South Florida (hint, hint!!), I would DIE to actually get a glimpse of him! OK ... another dream to be realized!! Seeing B and taking a pic with him?????? Am I asking too much!!!!!???? They say that whatever you want you must keep seeing it in your mind ... every single day, keep visualizing what you want, and thought WILL CREATE REALITY!! So, we must ALL see Bobby here in South Florida and US THERE WITH HIM!!! OMG, OMG!!!


    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 11:07 PM

    Lorraine S.
    Good luck to that sweet girl Ambling Rose of yours. I hope she does well. Scratches on her nose for me.

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 11:09 PM

    Great news about Avi. Been thinking about her during my despondent time....haven't posted for a while before yesterday because of feeling overwhelmed by all of the beautiful animals in need. Sometimes I feel like it's insurmountable. Went to church today and the sermon was all about making a difference and how each person as an individual can really do good in this world. The message has re-inspired me. It was really what I needed after yesterday's tragedy. I've spent a few weeks doing the whole "why me" song over every little thing. I almost let the Pine Island tragedy do me in again. But then I started to think, what if we all did that? Where would Jeremiah Salvation be, or the MO horses, or all the other horses out there who need to be saved? I will press on despite how challenging it is for me to tolerate such horrible outcomes to our beautiful animals.

    Posted by: Sheila at November 5, 2006 11:10 PM

    I think Linnie is overcome. Linnie do we need to call 911 for you? LOL

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 11:12 PM

    #####

    Good luck Lorraine..it must be funny to see her stop.

    Posted by: Mary at November 5, 2006 11:13 PM

    Sheila:

    If it was my dogs, (and believe me, it has been more times than I care to think about), unless there are major wounds, bleeding without slowing/coagulating, I would clean all the sores, disinfect, then put some neosporin on them.


    Keep an eye to be sure the bleeding stops, that the dog isn't acting like he's in pain, that he's walking normally and that everyone goes back to behaving normally. Watch for swelling, but there probably won't be any.

    If they're anything like mine, in a little while they'll be best buddies again. The silly part with mine is that the two I have left are a 130 lb German Shepherd and a 17 lb Lhasa Apso. Guess which one is the alpha, and is the one that starts all the fights and the one that NEVER backs down. You got it, the Lhasa. My Shepherd backs down to him every time. LOL

    I BELIEVE IN BARBARO

    Posted by: Cora-IL at November 5, 2006 11:14 PM

    Sheila,

    I would cut the fur back in the wound area, carefully so as not to cut the dog. If he won't hold still for this have someone hold him but if he still struggles don't do it. Then I would saturate it with hydrogen peroxide, keeping a towel hand as when it runs off they don't like it. Do this every couple hrs. today, let it really sink in, hold the dogs head away from it a few minutes while it absorbs because he'll want to lick it. That's what I've done with my dogs and it works if the wound isn't too deep, then you would have to go to vet.

    Good luck!

    Posted by: Bonnie MacRaith at November 5, 2006 11:16 PM

    #####################
    Bobbie B.
    we lost a friend today .....sometimes it is hard to keep on keeping on.
    Love
    Susah

    Posted by: Susanw at November 5, 2006 11:17 PM

    Cora - thanks. I have sent my husband out for first aid supplies. The lab is still in his kennel being punished and the pointer hasn't moved from his spot on the bed. I'm afraid to turn him over until he willingly does it to check the other side of him. I think he's got another wound over there though because when I put my hand underneath him it comes out with blood. But it's not a lot, and the pointer is not acting like he's anything other than humiliated by his defeat so I am thinking it is physically superficial.

    Thanks for the chuckle over the mental image of your Lhasa reigning over the mighty shepard. Hilarious.

    Posted by: Sheila at November 5, 2006 11:19 PM

    Lyn ... I must confess that I haven't been following the posts about Avi, but apparently there is good news going around ...

    So, I will add my positive thoughts and congratulations as well!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 11:19 PM

    Anyone know why Mellissa Harden does not visit us at all any more?I miss her poems and videos.
    Did something happen?

    Posted by: BrendaRyder at November 5, 2006 11:21 PM

    Thanks Bonnie. Check your email when you have a minute.

    Posted by: Sheila at November 5, 2006 11:24 PM

    ####
    Lorraine S,

    Prayers for Amblin Rose's safe journey around the track on Tuesday at the Meadowlands and best wishes for a victory. Please keep us informed. It is so much fun to root for one of our FOB family member's babies. I have to chuckle when I think of her beating everyone in front of her and then stopping. I remember you discussing this with Alex, right?? I truly hope the other horses motivate her to keep running until she crosses the finish line a winner!!!!!!!

    Posted by: Rosemary in NE OHIO at November 5, 2006 11:25 PM

    HOPE EVERYONE HAD A GOOD SUNDAY. I PURPOSELY DIDN'T COME HERE TODAY, I AM STILL SAD ABOUT PINE ISLAND, BUT I'M CERTIAN HER OWNERS, TRAINERS ETC.. ARE A LOT SADDER THAN I AM.

    SORRY SHELLY THAT MR. BOXCAR DIDN'T WIN. :>(

    LUV, PRAYERS & HEALING FOR EVERYONE,
    CHERYL G

    Just Say NO to Horseslaughter

    Posted by: CHERYLGNOHORSESLAUGHTER at November 5, 2006 11:25 PM

    I think Linnie is overcome. Linnie do we need to call 911 for you? LOL

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 11:12 PM

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

    RENEE .... WE SHALL OVERCOME!!! But I may SUCCUMB!!! LOLOL

    To even allow the thought of seeing B into my conscious mind fills me with "How can this happen" ... but I also know that I must believe that it WILL happen and that it should happen.

    I never thought I would meet "My Boy, Brilliant Bill" up close and personal, and that happened, and that was a dream of mine also, so why not another "Brilliant B" ... BARBARO!!! So I am going to "see" B here during this winter season and I am going to see our group of FOBs there with him ... over and over and over again!!

    So, yes ... have 911 on standby ... just in case, although I hate drawing attention-getting scenes with sirens swirling and blasting. Better yet ... no 911 ... just send Barbaro to rescue me!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 11:26 PM

    ###
    Per my daughter (almost a vet) on the dog wound issue...

    If you can see a puncture and can put the tip of your finger inside of it, it needs stitches... Says you need to clean it out with water ASAP.. If it continues to bleed more than 10 min.. need vet care as the other dog might have hit a vein or artery... Apply Direct pressure to that area to stop the bleeding..


    I don't know about where you live but we can call the vet on call and ask questions, does not cost anything until you bring the dog in.. Some large cities have special numbers for that..

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 5, 2006 11:34 PM

    HAS ANYONE HEARD ANY UPDATE ON LINDA H TODAY???

    PLEASE POST IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION AT ALL ON HER ....

    THANK YOU SO MUCH!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 11:34 PM

    This is my first chance to post since the races yesterday. I went to Foxwood's Casino in Ct. to watch and won $275 on my first bet ever on horseracing. Needless to say I was flabergasted but I owe it all to what I read on Tim Woolley Racing and to Alex. My heart is breaking for Pine Island and her connections. What a tragedy.

    The Fair Hill horses were amazing and I was so proud of Giacomo, and happy for his connections. I think that even Brother Derek showed everyone what he is made of. Bernardini has nothing to be ashamed of either. A great horse. I did bet on Invasor, and am delighted that he won. Michael had a great day with Round Pond, and wasn't it wonderful that it was at Churchill? I think our Bobby was thinking good thoughts for his beloved Michael. I hope for ACN for Bobby, the Miracle continues!

    Posted by: Jane at November 5, 2006 11:35 PM

    ###
    Mary L. we're in St. Louis and the animal hospital that is open 24hrs says that they will not give us any advice unless we come in - isn't that nice? The "after hours" charge is $150 and that's just the office visit, then they tack on the treatment charges. Ugh. Trying to hold off until tomorrow to see our regular vet in the morning if I can. Anyway, my husband just got home and between the two of us, we gave Mickey (the pointer) a good all over exam to make sure we were seeing everything. He has 2 wounds, one that I'm not too worried about on the right hind and one on the left which we just cleaned out first with water and then with peroxide. It's about the size of a fingertip I think, but I'm too afraid to spread it open for fear that I'll make it worse. Maybe he will need stitches...but it's not bleeding too badly. My lab is now moping around the house knowing he's been a bad boy. He went over to the pointer to try to make up, but the pointer had none of it. It will be interesting to see how long it takes for them to be friends again.

    Posted by: Sheila at November 5, 2006 11:41 PM

    Linnie & Christine,

    I just scanned some of the posts and saw your comments about B coming South. In all honesty - I think it would be a good thing for him. There's no question that his going outdoors to graze everyday really helped him gain weight. It probably was somewhat of a return to normalacy that improved his disposition overall. I know PA winters and they're not pleasant. If it would be a bad winter, it's possible he might not get outdoors for days at a time. I know they're not going to want to risk him falling on ice or snow. Of course I have my selfish reasons too in wanting to see him head to the sunshine state, but my main concern is for his well being. This long confinement has to be extremely difficult for him.

    Janice

    Proud to be a "fan of Barbaro"

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 5, 2006 11:42 PM

    That is funny Alex..so glad you were able to get home!

    I have loved your breeders cup "insider" stories.

    Posted by: Mary at November 5, 2006 11:44 PM

    #######Sheila, As a dog breeder for over 30 years I can tell you that you should get the dog to a vet asap. The wound needs to be flushed, and almost definitely needs some systemic antibiotics. Usually you would keep flushing the wound and also using Neosporin on and inside it. It must drain. Also warm soaks. If a dog bite gets infected you have a real problem on your hands.

    Posted by: Jane at November 5, 2006 11:45 PM

    Linnie,
    You are a nut. I like your dream and I do believe in them. I have a feeling I will meet him someday to. OMG I think I will just stand there stare, cry and tell him how much I love him, and if it is ok with him I would like to give him a hug and kiss. They will never get me out I will have super,super glue on my hands. LOL

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 11:50 PM

    JANICE .....

    Linnie & Christine,

    I just scanned some of the posts and saw your comments about B coming South. In all honesty - I think it would be a good thing for him. There's no question that his going outdoors to graze everyday really helped him gain weight. It probably was somewhat of a return to normalacy that improved his disposition overall. I know PA winters and they're not pleasant. If it would be a bad winter, it's possible he might not get outdoors for days at a time. I know they're not going to want to risk him falling on ice or snow. Of course I have my selfish reasons too in wanting to see him head to the sunshine state, but my main concern is for his well being. This long confinement has to be extremely difficult for him.

    Janice

    Proud to be a "fan of Barbaro"

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 5, 2006 11:42 PM
    ################################################

    You would make a great lawyer!!!! I think you understand about compelling arguments!!

    But you will get none from me because I sit at the same table as you do ... and I couldn't agree more.

    I know there was some mention of B going to the Jackson Farm for the winter, and, of course, I would love to see him 'home' with his "parents" on their farm. But I think that their farm is up north where it is still very cold for the winter, so, if we really think of what's best for Barbaro, then warm weather, grazing, getting outside, seeing sunshine and blue skies would be the answer. And, especially if Michael is here for the winter with his horses, then Peter will be here also. The only person who won't be here is Dr. Richardson ... BUT ... if he feels that B is well enough to leave the confines of NBC and travel south to a much more comfortable climate which is more suited to his continuing recovery, then I am sure that Dr. R knows and can recommend an excellent Vet in this are to oversee Bobby's continued treatment and recovery.

    Also, it's only a 2 hour flight from PA to South Florida, so if Dr. R needs to see Bobby up close and personal, in 2 hours he's here!!

    I say VOTE YES ON TUESDAY FOR BARBARO here in South Florida!!

    Janice ... is that on our ballot????

    Posted by: Linnie at November 5, 2006 11:50 PM

    #### martita - I will share with you a pine cone or two I picked up - on the grounds of New Bolton - when I was there last month. I just do stuff like that ! Always have ........ collected pine cones - and pine cones from New Bolton -close to Barbaro's energy - they just found their way into my collection .... waiting for quite the right moment - the right collage - the right memorial ......... and are carefully waiting, still, in my carry on and carry off luggage - waiting to share with you !!
    Let me know - I would be sure they made their way to you - in honor and memory of beautiful Pine Island.

    Sherry - Arizona
    sherryvw@aol.com

    Posted by: Sherry at November 5, 2006 11:54 PM

    #####

    Linnie...whatever you are smokin'...pass it on down...

    Posted by: Pamela at November 5, 2006 11:55 PM

    Beautiful Barbaro, bless you honey, and lots of love and "scratchies" - are you snuggled down for the night, had some treats . . .

    I lit another votive for you, Barbaro, in the Holy Family niche before Mass this morning, and also a votive for your equine friend, Pine Island, so sorry, heart has been heavy.

    A multitude of angels keep watch over you, Barbaro, and remember - positive healing thoughts . . . positive energies directed to that growing hoof tissue -- feel it growing strong and secure. Be sure to give Dr. R and The Jacksons "hugs" when you see them next.

    My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro!!
    And a kiss on your nose!
    Love you, Lou Ann

    Posted by: Lou Ann, Pennsylvania at November 5, 2006 11:58 PM

    Lorraine,

    My prayers for you and Amblin Rose on Tuesday. A safe race for her and all the others racing that day. Please be sure to let us know how she does.

    Janice

    Proud to be a "fan of Barbaro"

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 5, 2006 11:58 PM

    Time to get ready for tomorrow. Barbaro Nation enjoy your night, we will talk tomorrow. I can't wait.

    Undefeated Barbaro Horse of the Year,
    I just love you so much I could burst. Time to tuck you in and give you angel kisses on your brow. Sleep well free spirit. Angels will cuddle with you. nite nite. muah shhhhhh Barbaro is sleeping. shhhhhhhh

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 11:58 PM

    I am thankful that you have had another comfortable day precious boy. Get a good night's sleep...rest well and heal. You're in my thoughts and prayers, and, as always, in my heart. Hugs and scratches. I love you Barbaro.


    The miracle continues...

    Posted by: Sandie at November 5, 2006 11:59 PM

    RENEE ....

    Linnie,
    You are a nut. I like your dream and I do believe in them. I have a feeling I will meet him someday to. OMG I think I will just stand there stare, cry and tell him how much I love him, and if it is ok with him I would like to give him a hug and kiss. They will never get me out I will have super,super glue on my hands. LOL

    Posted by: Renee Antaya at November 5, 2006 11:50 PM
    ###################################################

    I left something very important out of my dream scenario ... since I don't like 'scenes' with ambulances and red lights flashing and sirens blaring loudly (will wake up the neighbors!), when Barbaro rescues me, I will be wearing my "Birthday Suit" (if you know what I mean) and my "Godiva" wig ... and I will also be nibbling on Godiva chocolates as well!!! So Barbaro can prance me through the streets just like "Lady G" all those years ago!!! But I definitely need a VERY LONG WIG!!! LOLOLOL

    OK ... next ... if I was ever to get close enough to even 'hear' B snort or neigh and I could see him in the distance, I would freeze and break down and cry uncontrollably. In fact, I am crying now just thinking about it! I couldn't talk or move or do anything but just "be in the presence of greatness". There's a great song by Wynonna called "I Can Only Imagine" and it's inspirational and uplifting and spiritual and wonderful, and each time I hear it, I immediately think of Bobby and how I would feel "meeting him for the very first time" .... "I Can Only Imagine!!"

    Posted by: Linnie at November 6, 2006 12:01 AM

    ##
    SHEILA---YOU SHOULD DO AS BONNIE SAID, IF YOU HAVE CLIPPERS/TRIMMERS AVAILABLE:CLIP ALL AROUND THE INJURED AREA FIRST. You will then be able to see how bad it is, and be able to access it better. I have had so many bites/ abcesses with my cats/dogs, that I learned to deal at home, vet told me it was alright(as long as eyes,or genitals etc. were not involved) It is not really that hard to clip off, if you use clippers like for human hair-they cut to the skin, just be careful around the wound. Clean it with the betadine/peroxide mixture, pat it dry, apply any type of antibiotic ointment on wound. Make sure your hands are VERY CLEAN, of course.

    CORA-Thanks for info about pro lens, they are making me a little crazy. Left eye is different than right one, this is the problem.

    OTHERLYN- I just got my glasses Thursday. I am partly nearsighted in one eye, and partly farsighted with astigmatism in other. I have been straining the good/better left eye, overcompensating for the bad/worse right one. I am having same problem as Cindy A. Items far away are great, crisp clear. Close up is weird, and there is such a tiny area to look down into for reading. Retraining to read with eyes down, instead of my head is almost impossible. Items in near vision, after looking far away are harder to focus upon. I have only worn them since Thursday, so I have to try and get used to them, then I will call eye Dr. I went to a private practice, instead of a Walmart. I think it will just take adjusting to idea of retraining my eyes with these progressive lenses. I have less headaches now though, from eyestrain. Yeah!

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:02 AM

    Lorraine,
    Thanks for the update on your baby. I hope she wins but mostly that she has a safe trip. I will have her in my prayers. Ya'll have fun on Tuesday!

    Jane, Congrats on your win!

    Has anyone heard anything about Chunky, the PG pony, I think in AZ? I hope she is doing ok.

    Posted by: cindy a at November 6, 2006 12:07 AM

    ####
    Just found this article that was written on Pine Island on Friday, It sounds like she was very excited to run the race...and did every thing they told her to do.


    Pine Island: She's No Beauty, But She Can Shake Her Booty
    by Deirdre B. Biles


    Date Posted: 11/3/2006 11:36:21 AM


    Last Updated: 11/3/2006 11:36:21 AM


    Pine Island, bred and owned by the Phipps Stable, probably wouldn't win an equine beauty contest. She's tall and lanky with crooked legs that toe in. But if pretty is as pretty does, the daughter of Arch is Miss America on the racetrack. Even though she's only 3-years-old, Pine Island is among the favorites for the Emirates Airline Breeders' Cup Distaff (gr. I) at Churchill Downs Saturday after winning the Alabama (gr. I) and Gazelle (gr. I) Stakes earlier this year.


    "She was big, and she was awkward," said trainer Shug McGaughey, describing Pine Island as a 2-year-old. "At one time, there was a little bit of talk about maybe putting her in a yearling sale. But I'll give Mr. (Ogden Mills) Phipps credit. He was the one who said, 'No, let's just keep her and break her, and we'll see if anything happens. If we have to put her in a broodmare sale somewhere along the line that's what we'll do.' "


    Pine Island didn't race as juvenile.


    "Somebody asked me where she was on my list at the first of this year; well, she wasn't on it," McGaughey said. "He (Phipps) wasn't calling me every day asking about the Arch filly. But the more we did with her, the more she acted like she would have a little quality to her."


    Pine Island made her career debut at Gulfstream Park in March on the turf, breaking her maiden by a neck over Hostess. She rolled to a 5 1/2-length allowance win three months later at Belmont Park on a sloppy track when the race was taken off the grass. Then she moved up to grade I competition in the Mother Goose Stakes and finished a close second to Bushfire. She also ran a close second to Wonder Lady Anne in the Coaching Club American Oaks (gr. I) before taking the Alabama and Gazelle.


    "This is all new to her; she's never shipped and run before; there's a lot of activity around here," said McGaughey of Pine Island's first Breeders' Cup experience. "She's stepping it up against older horses, so we'll just have to wait and see. I thought she trained as good as she could this morning (Friday) and got over the track good. That was my main concern. Sometimes you come in here, and horses don't really like Churchill. But I thought she handled it very, very well."


    Matlacha Pass, the dam of Pine Island, is a full sister to last year's longshot Distaff winner Pleasant Home.


    Pine Island's "looks are along the lines of Pleasant Home; she's big, and Pleasant Home was big," McGaughey. "But her (4-year-old) half-sister Chili Cat (by Storm Cat) is little."


    Looking ahead to the Distaff, McGaughey said: "She's got the two post; they'll outrun her the first part of it. There will be some pace, and then I think there will be some middle moves, and then I think there will be some that will be coming late. I would just like to see her in some sort of position around the second turn to where he (jockey Javier Castellano) can maybe get her out at the head of the stretch where she would have a run at them. Her age shouldn't be a disadvantage this time of year. The one thing to her disadvantage is that she hasn't run a whole lot. She's really settled in great, but when I got here yesterday, she was all eyes because there were a lot of things happening. But she's got a great mind, so it's not like she wants to do something stupid."


    http://bc.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=36195

    Posted by: Laura in Key West at November 6, 2006 12:07 AM

    ###
    SHEILA-They do not normally stitch up bite wounds because of infection.They do flush out and trim off dead, necrotic tissue, and give antibiotic shot, and of course, usually you get some ointment and oral to take home also. GOD, I hate it when you have to put that stuff in a big hole in their side, it makes me sad when they are hurt! Good luck, Watch for redness and swelling if you cannot get to vet tomorrow. It does not need to close up, it DOES need to DRAIN.

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:09 AM

    Hi Everyone.

    Thanks to you all for your concern about Boxcar. Pam gave you the "scoop" but I just wanted to check in and say how much I appreciate your support. It was a disappointing day but all seems well.

    I guess when we told him to run a good race, we should have told him to wait until the gate opened!! Boxcar is VERY smart and I don't think he'll be making that mistake again.
    He's pretty hard headed...like his mom....so he seems to be fine. But two year olds are very immature and it knocked him off of his "game".
    He did hit his head VERY hard and I believe his jockey, Victor Molina, was a little cautious about pushing him because he couldn't be positive that he was okay. I respect Victor for that and am happy that he cares about his welfare.

    Last I saw Boxcar, he was gobbling up his dinner and his groom, Tom said that other than being mad as hell, he seemed fine.

    It's so funny but he really knows when he has been stupid and messed up!! Gave him some peppermints anyway!!

    Posted by: ShelleyA at November 6, 2006 12:09 AM

    Linnie

    I'm in complete agreement with everything you said. Now if we can only get the decision makers to see things the same way.......

    Shelia

    Good luck with your dogs. I've had my share of similar incidents. Not fun.

    Janice
    Proud to be a "fan of Barbaro"

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 6, 2006 12:09 AM

    Hi All
    It was a great day in Kennett Square. We just got home from Erin’s fundraiser. And I am happy to report. Thanks to help from many of you. We raise 19,568.00 for Erin & her family, today. We are all beat. But it was worth it. Thank you all so much. Anne & Terry are beyond words.
    Also Rach received a call from her doctor at the benefit. She is now in the hospital. No measurable trace of iron in her blood. She is getting a transfusion. I will keep you up to date.
    Good night & God Bless.
    Alie
    KF
    P.S. Peg thanks for driving down to help us. Hope you got home safly.

    Posted by: Alie at November 6, 2006 12:12 AM

    #######
    LYN G.-
    Hi . . . just trying to catch up a bit and just saw your post about AVI and have tears rolling out of joy for you and AVI, and be assured the prayers will continue!!
    Wish I lived closer so I could see! Bless you and please give AVI a hug for me - or whatever form of affection he loves best! L
    ##

    Speedy get well wishes & Prayers also for MR. BOXCAR!!! L

    Posted by: Lou Ann, Pennsylvania at November 6, 2006 12:12 AM

    #####

    Linnie...whatever you are smokin'...pass it on down...

    Posted by: Pamela at November 5, 2006 11:55 PM

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

    Pamie ... don't smoke but I do 'blow smoke' occasionally. But here's my secret, straight from the lyrics of Neil Diamond and how I feel about Bobby:

    Red, red wine, go to my head,
    make me forget that I still need him so.
    Red, red wine, it's up to you.
    All I can do, I've done;
    but mem'ries won't go.
    No, mem'ries won't go.

    I'd have thought that with time
    thoughts of him would leave my head.
    I was wrong, and I find just one thing makes me forget.

    Red, red wine, stay close to me.
    Don't let me be alone;
    it's tearing a part my blue, blue heart.

    Posted by: Linnie at November 6, 2006 12:12 AM

    ShelleyA

    Thanks so much for giving us a "BoxCar" update. I'm so glad that he's OK. I can't even imagine how you must have felt during the whole event. I was a wreck watching on the computer. I knew that long delay wasn't good and when the announcer said that he opened the gate, I think my heart stopped.

    Now that we know he's OK - How are you????

    Janice
    Proud to be a "fan of Barbaro"

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 6, 2006 12:14 AM

    Hi Gang
    I see we got 15 emails today. Too tired to read. Need to sleep. Will reply monday.
    Thanks again
    Alie

    Posted by: Alie at November 6, 2006 12:17 AM

    Thanks for the update Shelley - glad he is ok.

    You are lucky you have a good jockey who didn't try to push him. Its funny he is mad at himself - hopefully he learned that the gate should open by itself! lol

    Next race will be better! GO BOXCAR.

    XXOO

    Posted by: Sally in Key West at November 6, 2006 12:19 AM

    Alie,

    I'm glad that the fundraiser for Erin and her family was such a success.

    I'm saddened that Rachel's condition is so bad. I just talked to her on Friday and she did say that she thought it was anemia, but jeez - the fact that she's getting a transfusion would seem to be quite serious. Did they say why she was so anemic?

    Janice
    Proud to be a "fan of BArbaro"

    Posted by: Janice from Florida at November 6, 2006 12:20 AM

    Hay Dora J,
    My husband has progressive lens and he told me it took a couple of weeks to adjust but now he loves them. They told me when I picked them up that I have 3 weeks to decide if I can adjust to them. It's been 2 weeks this past Fri. and I think they are going to be ok. Actually it's getting better reading the computer screen my big problem is driving with them. I have to be VERY careful especially changing lanes.

    Posted by: cindy a at November 6, 2006 12:20 AM

    Thanks, Shelly A for the update first hand on your boy -- we all were waiting to hear from you. Hope you are doing well.

    Posted by: Barbara Kerr at November 6, 2006 12:21 AM

    FOR SHELLEYA:

    I guess when we told him to run a good race, we should have told him to wait until the gate opened!! Boxcar is VERY smart and I don't think he'll be making that mistake again.
    He's pretty hard headed...like his mom....so he seems to be fine. But two year olds are very immature and it knocked him off of his "game".
    He did hit his head VERY hard and I believe his jockey, Victor Molina, was a little cautious about pushing him because he couldn't be positive that he was okay. I respect Victor for that and am happy that he cares about his welfare.

    Last I saw Boxcar, he was gobbling up his dinner and his groom, Tom said that other than being mad as hell, he seemed fine.
    ##############################################

    Shelley ... Do you know exactly what I was thinking as I read this from you?

    The prep race before the Kentucky Derby for Secretariat was The Woodward ... he lost that race ... may have even come in where Boxie did. Anyway, I remember reading the commentary from Penny Tweedy after that loss by Secretariat.

    Paraphrasing here but she said that he was very very mad at himself and kicked around in his stall after that race. Penny said that she felt that Secretariat ws saying to himself "I WILL NEVER DO THAT AGAIN!!" and the NEXT race he ran was the Kentucky Derby where he blazed in 1:59.2.

    So, if this was the Prep race to the PA Nursery on Nov. 18, and Boxie is "pissed" at himself for losing ... then WATCH OUT, GIRL! HE WILL BLOW THE FIELD AWAY!! He's only 2 ... HE'S GOT A GREAT FUTURE AHEAD OF HIM!! I SMELL BIG RED HERE IN GREY!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 6, 2006 12:22 AM

    #######
    LINNIE-I SO forgot to tell you that I was always a Neil Diamond fan too! When I was in grade school/jr. high I listened to him, Simon & Garfunkel, James Taylor, and stuff like that. I had absolutely no friends interested in my type of music. I did not care. I still love them all, and will forever. I had almost forgotten about how important JLS was to me til ya'll started talking about it, putting Martita's posts to the score. I now know where the music was coming from in my head. I was so shocked that I had forgotten that part of my life. Brought back alot of stuff. Cry some more, crying now. It is no wonder I like all ya'll gals so much, any body who loves Neil Diamond has got to be the most best person you'd ever want to know anyway!! Thanks for reminding me of "Be".

    SHELLYA.-I am so glad to hear Boxcar is going to be alright. I have been gone allday, just read about the gate incident. I sure hope his hard little noggin is okay!

    ALIE-PLEASE tell Rachel that we are all thinking of her. I am so pleased you guys raised all that money for Erin's family. That is such exciting news! But poor Rachel! I know once she is through with hospital stuff, she will feel alot better. Tell that girl she better eat some spinach, gizzards, and kale, dark leafy greens, and liver (OOH YUCK)! She better be taking her iron supplements too, when she gets out. It is not fun being anemic. My family had a problem with that. Iron supplements are no fun--but compared to a tranfusion???They are wonderful...Love you guys.

    LINDA H-Thinking about you, wondering how you are today.Hoping you are feeling better and better every day. We are all missing you. Get well!!

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:25 AM

    ###

    Sheila:

    How's the doggie???

    I BELIEVE IN BARBARO

    Posted by: Cora-IL at November 6, 2006 12:29 AM

    Cheryl J. and I just got back from visiting Linda H. at the hospital. Linda looks great for just having had major surgrey. If all goes well, Linda will get to go home on Tuesday. She wanted to pass along her thanks for the lovely flowers that were sent from her Barbaro family. We spent about hour and half visiting and of course, talk of Barbaro was our focal point. Linda shared with us that she might try and sneak onto the hospital computer later tonight to check in.

    As for myself, it was great finally having the opportunity to meet Linda and Cheryl.

    Posted by: Barb D. at November 6, 2006 12:29 AM

    #######
    SHEILA - I so hope BOTH your "boys" will be okay, especially "Mickey" the Pointer. Please keep us posted. Thinking of you and them! L


    ALIE @ KF:
    Bless you, you must be exhausted and still posted for us. Prayers going up for RACHEL, so sorry to hear that, please keep us posted. Wish I were closer - I would offer to help you at the shoppe or something. You all are the most wonderful people. Prayers to RACHEL! L

    Posted by: Lou Ann, Pennsylvania at November 6, 2006 12:30 AM

    Correction: Secretariat's Prep for the Derby was the Wood ... and it was discovered that he had an abscess under his lip and he lost that race.

    Comparison to Boxie who hit his head before leaving the gate today???? OH YES!!!!

    He won't do it again, Shelley! Look for Boxie to WIN the PA Nursery on the 18th!! And the timing is the same too ... Secretariat lost the Wood 2 weeks prior to THE DERBY. And Boxie lost today's race just about 2 weeks prior to the Nursery! Coincidence? I don't think so! Random occurrence? I don't think so!! Serendipity??? ABSOLUTELY!!!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 6, 2006 12:31 AM

    ###
    CINDY A.-I can drive great, but I too, have to move my head, not my eyes to see peripheally. (cannot spell it) It is so disconcerting. I watch tv, or look at computer, great, take my eyes off to look down and read, YUCK. I got to boyfriends house, tried to park, seemed like I felt I was gonna hit his trucks! I canoot judge distances. I walk up/down stairs and feel like I cannot judge depth of them. Is this what you and your husband went/going through?

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:31 AM

    ####

    You are doing the right thing with treating the wound. . Daughter says if it is still seepish tomorrow, get to the vet. Antibotics will be needed, esp with a leg wound and bite wound.

    Keep it dry and check on it, apply pressure if you see any kind of bleeding. They will not put stitches in for at least 24 hrs to give the wound time to air out and see what kind of tissue damage.

    Her dog MoJo was bitten last year by a groundhog.. talk about one nasty wound!!! We had to flush it daily and give him antibotics for 2 weeks.. They did put stitches in one of the wounds when it would not close up..

    Peroxide is good but don't overuse it, one good benefit will keep him from licking the wound too much. Ice is good also for swelling...

    Good luck and just keep an eye on the dog...

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 6, 2006 12:33 AM

    http://bc.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=36248

    This is the link to an interesting article I just read concerning the long time it took the ambulance to reach Fleet Indian.

    Posted by: cindy a at November 6, 2006 12:33 AM

    #
    Yes I forgot to mention walking with them, you have to be careful because you can't judge distance very well. I put my head way down and try to look thru the top of the glasses. Bob said it gets better. Your brain has to learn adjust to the glasses. If he can do it we can do it!

    Posted by: cindy a at November 6, 2006 12:37 AM

    ##########
    I AM SO HAPPY THAT LINDA H MAY BE COMING HOME TUESDAY!! GREAT!!! OUR FRIEND IS HEALING!!

    LYn Gilbert- I am so glad to hear about Avi getting to be near his owner. It is amazing what you have accomplished for this precious animal and his grateful owners.

    #########
    BARBARO-I FORGOT TO TELL YOU HOW HAPPY I AM TO THINK OF YOUR CAST COMING OFF! BIG OLE BOY-YOU WILL BE HAVING A SPLINT BRACE REALLY SOON!! IT WILL NOT BE NEARLY AS ITCHY AND STINKY, AND HEAVY AS THAT NASTY OLE CAST!! PLEASED WE ARE TO HEAR THIS NEWS!!

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:37 AM

    Alex, so glad you were able to have what sounds like a wonderfully fabulous time, you so deserve it! However, so sorry about Pine Island.
    Hopefully you are safely home by now and did not have to spend the night in Philadelphia airport!! Perhaps JAZZ would have rescued you! But I think they honored your ticket because maybe "a little bird" told the airport staff YOU are BARBARO's PERSONAL REPORTER and could not be detained!! Smile!

    Don't forget your gloves in the morning, Alex! It's frosty!!
    And THANK YOU ALWAYS for everything!!
    Lou Ann

    Posted by: Lou Ann, Pennsylvania at November 6, 2006 12:38 AM

    ###
    Mickey is acting very defensive around the lab (Bruno). We let Bruno up and every time he comes by Mickey, Mickey responds by growling. This is how the whole thing started in the first place. We have cleaned the wound with peroxide two times now, and flushed with water. He is trying to lick it. I have some doggie antibiotics left over from Bruno's leg surgery so I gave him one of those (hopefully my vet doesn't get mad at me for this tomorrow). Mickey's getting around fine, and aside from licking the wound, he seems to be not bothered much by it. There isn't any more bleeding either, so that's really good. I'll definitely take him to the vet in the morning to be looked at. Thanks to everyone for your advice and concern.

    Posted by: Sheila at November 6, 2006 12:38 AM

    Hiya, Bobbey! I hope that your Sunday was a sun-filled one. Ms. Nikita got two walks today and that meets her definition of a good day! Your friends are probably already heading home from KY, if they've not yet reached PA & MD. I'm sure that you'll be happy to see Michael M. again tomorrow. Monday will bring the start of another "work week of healing" for our sweet prince. Wishing you golden slumbers. Grow, hoofie, grow! Hugs, pets, & "scratches" from your pals in CT _ Robyn, Brent, & Nikita

    #### Sending good thoughts to Linda H.
    To Mary L.: I've missed you here. Please accept my condolences upon the death of your uncle as well as your dear friend.
    To Joyce: May your husband, Bob, have a successful cardian procedure on Tuesday.
    To Lyn G.: Great news about Avi!
    To Lorraine: May Ambling Rose have a successful race on Tuesday. You must be so excited.
    To Designgirl7: Your sentiments yesterday were right on the mark and eloquently put.
    To Laura: Your basket for the Phipps Family sounds so beautiful. What a grand tribute.
    To Martita: I promise to gather pine cones when I am off work this coming Tuesday. I'll stack them in a beautiful field to honour Pine Island. May the Force be with you as you work with the children this week.
    To All FsOB: Wishing you peace and a good night to all! Robyn H. ####

    Posted by: Robyn Hoffmann at November 6, 2006 12:39 AM

    #######
    LINNIE-I SO forgot to tell you that I was always a Neil Diamond fan too! When I was in grade school/jr. high I listened to him, Simon & Garfunkel, James Taylor, and stuff like that. I had absolutely no friends interested in my type of music. I did not care. I still love them all, and will forever. I had almost forgotten about how important JLS was to me til ya'll started talking about it, putting Martita's posts to the score. I now know where the music was coming from in my head. I was so shocked that I had forgotten that part of my life. Brought back alot of stuff. Cry some more, crying now. It is no wonder I like all ya'll gals so much, any body who loves Neil Diamond has got to be the most best person you'd ever want to know anyway!! Thanks for reminding me of "Be".
    ###########################################33

    OH DORA .... you made me cry!!! This is such a beautiful post and I so agree about anyone loving Neil's music!!

    There is another album of his that came out after JLS that I just love called "Serenade" ...

    Do you know this one????? So incredibly gorgeous, and several of these songs follow up on the JLS "Be" theme!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 6, 2006 12:40 AM

    ######
    Cindy A.-Thanks, I am certainly hoping that I will adjust. It is funny, the only reason I THOUGHT I needed glasses was to read--turns out, things DO look alot clearer with them on, so I guess I DID need them for distance veiwing also...LOL I was just denying the inevitable, I am so old- HAHAHAHAHAHA AND--I am gettin hellacious payback for messing with my sisters for all those years, when they wore "cokebottle" glasses, and I laughed at them!! I was such a mean child!! My sisters are both laughing at me now, and I totally deserve it! Hey, how is Cahill doing? Has there been any problems after the surgery, or has he still been as happy as he was right after the procedure? I sure hope he is doing great. He certainly deserves to be happy after all he's been through. Thanks again fellow-Presbyopia gal..LOL

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:43 AM

    Sheila:

    Is that how they usually act towards each other after one of those "events"?? If not, you might have to keep an eye so they don't go at it again.

    My Lhasa is a "hold a grudge" type, but fortunately the Shepherd is a sweetheart. Once the "battle" is over, even if he's still crabby, she just wags her tail and ignores him completely.

    I hope the rest of the evening is peaceful for you.

    I BELIEVE IN BARBARO

    Posted by: Cora-IL at November 6, 2006 12:44 AM

    #########
    LINNIE- The one Longfellows Serenade?

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:45 AM

    ##########################
    FOR BARB D AND CHERYL J

    Cheryl J. and I just got back from visiting Linda H. at the hospital. Linda looks great for just having had major surgrey. If all goes well, Linda will get to go home on Tuesday. She wanted to pass along her thanks for the lovely flowers that were sent from her Barbaro family. We spent about hour and half visiting and of course, talk of Barbaro was our focal point. Linda shared with us that she might try and sneak onto the hospital computer later tonight to check in.

    As for myself, it was great finally having the opportunity to meet Linda and Cheryl.

    Posted by: Barb D. at November 6, 2006 12:29 AM
    ##################################################

    THIS IS SUCH PHENOMENAL NEWS ... I AM SO HAPPY TO READ THAT LINDA MAY BE COMING HOME ON TUESDAY!!

    SO, tomorrow I will call her ... it will be my birthday present to myself ... to hear her voice on the phone! My sister gave me her phone card to use so I will call Linda tomorrow and give myself the greatest birthday gift I Can Only Imagine!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 6, 2006 12:45 AM

    I'm tucking everyone in early tonight! Barbaro, Alibi, Boxcar, Jessie, Ima, Cloud, Chicka, Misty, Rosie, Glory and Bobby's Girl - snuggle in your straw tonight, grab your blankies and stretch out. Sleep well, have happy horsie dream, and wake up to a happy new day. XXOO and SCRATCHIES!

    Barbaro - GROW HOOF GROW - excited about the new splint! I'll check in on you in the AM.

    I love each and every one of you!!

    Aunty Sally

    Posted by: Sally in Key West at November 6, 2006 12:46 AM

    #######
    LINNIE-I do not have my albums anymore. My turntable broke years ago, so I gave it to Salvation Army/Goodwill, along with ALL my records. Now of course, my daddy kept his. He made me buy him a trutable online several years ago, and I wanted to kill myself for getting rid of my albums. Most all were first run originals, that are unavailable now. I still cannot find some of Neil's songs on cd or tape that were on soem of my old albums. ARGH!!

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:48 AM

    #########
    LINNIE-I LOVE that song, well most ALL of his songs, but Longfellow Serenade is a favorite. It came out I think I was 12 or 13 yrs old. See now, why my friends thought I was a weirdo? Do you like Simon & Garfunkel as well?

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:52 AM

    #########
    LINNIE- The one Longfellows Serenade?

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:45 AM

    #############################################33

    YES, DORA ... That is one of the songs on this incredible album .... BUT the title of the album itself is just "Serenade" ... here is the track listing:

    I've Been This Way Before (this was supposed to be included on the JLS album but it wasn't finished in time)

    Rosemary's Wine
    Lady Magdelene (INCREDIBLE!!!)
    The Last Picasso (Sooooo sexy!!)
    Longfellow Serenade
    Yes I Will
    Reggae Strut
    The Gift of Song

    IF YOU DON'T HAVE THIS ONE, DORA ... then it is a MUST to add to your Neil Diamond library! Just magnificent!!!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 6, 2006 12:54 AM

    #
    I used to have a little boston bull dog with an attitude. She bullied my yellow lab around all the time. Every now and then the lab would get fed up and beat the bull dog up. I could always tell when I got home from work if they had a fight because the boston bull would be kinda shy. She would behave for a couple of days then she'd start right back pushing the lab around. She never did learn that the lab was bigger than her, she always thought she was the alpha dog and most of the time she was.

    Posted by: cindy a at November 6, 2006 12:54 AM

    ###

    Why is it the littlest dogs seem to have the biggest attitudes?? LOL

    I BELIEVE IN BARBARO

    Posted by: Cora-IL at November 6, 2006 12:56 AM

    #
    Dora, Cahill is doing great. He feels alot better since that painful eye was removed.
    Thanks for asking about him.

    Posted by: cindy a at November 6, 2006 12:56 AM

    Hello everyone! I just wanted to say that I was one of the fortunate ones who got to meet Alex yesterday. He is charming and funny! My family and I had a great time chatting with him at the paddock. The Breeder's Cup was my first race. It was exciting and heartbreaking at the same time. I hope you all get the opportunity to meet him and see what a great guy he truly is! Thanks Alex!

    Posted by: Laura in Monroe GA at November 6, 2006 1:02 AM

    ####

    Dora,

    I mad your poundcake recipe last nite....it was soooooo good.

    Thanks!!!

    Posted by: Therese at November 6, 2006 1:04 AM

    DORA ....

    #######
    LINNIE-I do not have my albums anymore. My turntable broke years ago, so I gave it to Salvation Army/Goodwill, along with ALL my records. Now of course, my daddy kept his. He made me buy him a trutable online several years ago, and I wanted to kill myself for getting rid of my albums. Most all were first run originals, that are unavailable now. I still cannot find some of Neil's songs on cd or tape that were on soem of my old albums. ARGH!!

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:48 AM

    #########
    LINNIE-I LOVE that song, well most ALL of his songs, but Longfellow Serenade is a favorite. It came out I think I was 12 or 13 yrs old. See now, why my friends thought I was a weirdo? Do you like Simon & Garfunkel as well?

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 12:52 AM

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

    DORA ...

    ALL of Neil's albums are available on CD ... I don't have a turntable anymore either, but I still have all of Neil's albums on CD ... Amazon.com has them!!

    Did you ever get his latest "12 Songs?" ... OMG ... you would LOVE IT!!!! You must get that one if you can!!

    Simon & Garfunkel ... Yes, but not a huge fan!! I am a huge fan of Frankie Ol' Blue Eyes Sinatra and Neil and Bobby Darin and so many others, but Frank and Neil top the list for me!!

    Posted by: Linnie at November 6, 2006 1:04 AM

    ########
    LINNIE-I have the boxed set cassettes called "In My Lifetime". I still miss all my old albums, Hot August Night, JLS, Lovr at The Greek, I am going to cry if I keep thinking about them being gone. And all my Simon & Garfunkel, James Taylors, DAngit, Boo-Hoo. I will see ya'll later, daddy gots some Popeyes chickens!!! Yay!!

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 1:05 AM

    Thanks for all the well wishes on my little Rosie. It should be interesting to say the least. I'll keep you posted.

    To Sheila A. Glad to hear your little guy is okay. He'll get 'em next time I'm sure. Sounds like he's a real trouper.

    Posted by: lorraine S. Staten Island,NY at November 6, 2006 1:06 AM

    Sweet Barbaro the Handsomest Horse in the World! ACD!!!! :)

    Mr. Boxcar, bad luck but we are soooo glad you are OK. Next time you will do it, gorgeous Boy!

    Alie, thanks for the update. Rachel is in my thoughts and prayers!

    Have a good Sunday night all

    Ro & Brady

    Posted by: Rosemarie at November 6, 2006 1:11 AM

    ####

    Alie: so glad to hear the fundraiser went well. You guys are just amazing. Please take care of Rachel.

    Lisa in Colorado

    Posted by: Lisa Leach at November 6, 2006 1:11 AM

    It’s unfortunate that the excitement yesterday was diminished by the sudden death of Pine Island who could have been one of the best 3-year old fillies. Thank God that Barbaro is recovering from a near fatal accident. Yesterday’s incident is another blow to the oldest sport in America. It’s bad enough that this sport is on its last legs. For about a year now, everyone has been raving about how good and safe synthetic track is. Apparently, it has been used for many years in Europe. The benefit seems overwhelming. Safer for the horses and riders; less injuries and fatalities to the horses which means cost saving for the owners; healthier for horses which means horses can run more per year and can keep racing longer; increase field sizes which means more competitive and higher handles and purses. What I don’t understand is why it’s taking so long for other racetracks to install it. It’s nice that Churchill Down spent millions of dollars in renovation. I am sure they made millions of dollars on Breeders’ Cup day. Perhaps, they should invest their profit on the safety of the horses and riders by installing synthetic track soon. Keeneland and Turfway Park have already installed Polytrack. Here in California, the CHRB took a strong stand in ensuring the safety of the horses and jockeys by requiring all major thoroughbred tracks to install synthetic surfaces by end of 2007. Hollywood Park now has Cushion Track. Del Mar will be installing Polytrack in January 2007 and Santa Anita will install one on summer of 2007. The Horse Racing Board in other states (such as Kentucky, New York, Florida, Maryland, and Illinois) should do the same thing.

    Posted by: Maria at November 6, 2006 1:11 AM

    Good Night Sweet Barbaro, Dream wonderful horsey dreams, all tucked in your soft bed of hay. I hear from Alex that your buddy, Dr R took you out today. What a bond the two of you have. He is a real softy where you are concerned. I know that he will take such good care of you during the cast change this week. You are our miracle.
    Rest well, my boy.
    Sharri

    Posted by: Sharri in Ohio at November 6, 2006 1:12 AM

    ######
    Cindy thanks for that link He is pissed and I dont blame him, THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR THAT.


    Here is the article, just imagine if you were waiting this long for an ambulance for your spouse or child. OH, being a 9-1-1 planner I am livid.


    Saylor Angry About Slow Ambulance Response
    by Deirdre B. Biles


    Date Posted: 11/5/2006 7:04:45 PM


    Last Updated: 11/5/2006 7:40:28 PM


    Paul Saylor reported Sunday that his Fleet Indian was doing "better than expected" after suffering a suspensory ligament injury in her left front leg during Saturday's Emirates Airline Breeders' Cup Distaff Stakes (gr. I). But he was angry about how long it took for an equine ambulance to reach the mare after she broke down in the race at Churchill Downs.


    Saylor said he understood why Pine Island, who had to be euthanized, was the first priority and was removed from the track before Fleet Indian. But he thought another vehicle should have been readily available to help his mare.


    "We waited around and waited around, and it was an elapsed time of damn near 20 minutes before the ambulance showed up," said Saylor, who was interviewed at the Fasig-Tipton Kentucky November select mixed sale. "They had to bring it over from the Sports Spectrum (now known as Trackside Louisville). I tell you what, I don't know if it's the Breeders' Cup or Churchill (that is responsible), but I'm going to find out and I'm going right after somebody's throat because if she had had a fracture, we would have lost her. Everybody was screaming about the track bias, which should not have happened either. If you weren't on the rail, you weren't going to win. But that (the time it took to get an equine ambulance to Fleet Indian) was friggin' unbelievable."


    However, Saylor is grateful that Fleet Indian wasn't injured more severely. Trained by Todd Pletcher, she took an eight-race winning streak into the Distaff that includes victories in two grade I events.


    "When we found out about 10 minutes after we got her back to the barn that it was all soft tissue, no fractures, I felt like I had won the race," he said. "We checked on her last night (after the Breeders' Cup), and she had her head in her feed bucket. We went back this morning and Todd said that Ken Reed, the veterinarian, said she was doing better than expected. We're going to take more pictures (X-rays) Tuesday."


    Fleet Indian was scheduled to be offered Monday at the Keeneland November breeding stock sale, but she has been withdrawn.

    Posted by: Laura in Key West at November 6, 2006 1:16 AM

    ####
    Linda H,

    Candles are lit for Barbaro, Foggy, S1915, MOEQ, Dr R., Jacks, and Pine. (Sunday evening 6:15 PM MST)

    Hope to see you home on Tuesday.

    Night Night!

    Posted by: Barb AZ at November 6, 2006 1:16 AM

    Maria, we actually have a very active synthetic track movement among us. It has taken a step back because of the slaughter issue, but you can see the petition and sign it here. We used the California model as a basis.


    http://www.petitiononline.com/cares/petition.html

    Posted by: Laura in Key West at November 6, 2006 1:20 AM

    Good evening Barbaro-Good luck & many prayers as you approach your cast change. May your radiographs be perfect & pool recovery & all go very well. A sweet night of healing rest Big B. Lots of love & prayers from all of us here. XXOO


    Peace & love to you Pine Island. Bless you,Angel.

    Posted by: Cheryl -- NY at November 6, 2006 1:21 AM

    Another great report, sweet Bobby. You've got a big week coming up with the cast removal. You're going to be a very happy boy!

    Sweet Dreams Bobby!

    Kim
    Kentucky

    Posted by: Kim at November 6, 2006 1:22 AM

    Another great report, sweet Bobby. You've got a big week coming up with the cast removal. You're going to be a very happy boy!

    Sweet Dreams Bobby!

    Kim
    Kentucky

    Posted by: Kim at November 6, 2006 1:22 AM

    Good news about Linda H., Cahill, Avi, and Boxy!!

    Sheila, I hope your dog will be okay. What were they fighting about, do you know?


    I share Paul Saylor's outrage about the equine ambulances. UNACCEPTABLE. Thankfully Fleet Indian wasn't hurt worse--bad enough as it was. What were those idiots thinking about? One ambulance available when there's dozens of horses racing that day.

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 6, 2006 1:22 AM

    ALL POINTS BULLETIN

    Melissa Harden and Phyllis in Texas, are you out there?

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 6, 2006 1:23 AM

    Laura, Thanks for the post about Fleet Indian. I also could not believe how long she stood on the track waiting for help. It was like, "that's not still Fleet Indian out there is it?". I didn't realize until yesterday that Churchill doesn't have a first aid station for the horses. I don't guess Keeneland (where I always go) has one either but they're right in Lexington where the two equine clinics are (Rood & Riddle, & Hagyard, Davidson, and Magee"

    Posted by: Kim at November 6, 2006 1:29 AM

    Barbaro,I Iove you!!!!!!

    Thanks AIex for aII the news...

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZhCaBin79o

    a beautifuI tribute to dear Pine IsIand..
    with this song..from Enya...


    "May it be an evening star
    Shines down upon you
    May it be when darkness falls
    Your heart will be true
    You walk a lonely road
    Oh! How are you are from home

    Mornie utulie (darkness has come)
    Believe and you will find your way
    Mornie alantie (darkness has fallen)
    A promise lives within you now

    May it be shadows call
    Will fly away
    May it be your journey on
    To light the day
    When the night is overcome
    You may rise to find the sun

    Mornie utulie (darkness has come)
    Believe and you will find your way
    Mornie alantie (darkness has fallen)
    A promise lives within you now

    A promise lives within you now" (ENYA)


    IOVE TO BARBARO
    Iove to aII,
    Iinda a
    oregon

    Posted by: Iinda a oregon at November 6, 2006 1:29 AM

    Great report Alex!

    So happy to hear that LindaH may be coming home on Tuesday..

    Barbaro, sweet prince...time to tuck you in, fluff the bedding, turn on the nite lite, whisper a lullabye in your beautiful ears...have ACN babycakes! Love to hear those words!..Hugs and smoooochies.

    Prayers for Rachel. I hope all will be well with her. She's a super person!

    Prayers for LindaH and all who need them

    G'nite Foggy

    Posted by: Toby at November 6, 2006 1:30 AM

    I was just watching the Bay Meadows replays from the weekend, and I had to smile - a jockey was dumped out of the gate in the first race, but the horse didn't bat an eye and just kept on racing. In this case the horse was last, but in other races I have seen them keep their positions and do very well. What they won't do for us!

    In this case, the jockey was fine, he came back in the next race and won on a longshot.

    However, in the interests of honesty about horse races, and all the trouble we have had finding out what happens to horses who go down: The announcer did replays of the BC races before going on the the Bay Meadows programs, and in the Distaff when announcing the results he said Fleet Indian and Pine Island were eased up. Is this done out of consideration of the viewer, although I would think anyone interested in racing would already know the facts, or in order to maintain an illusion of "all is well"?

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at November 6, 2006 1:35 AM

    Laura in Key West,
    Shelly CA posted this link to an intersting article concerning the lack of state of the art equine hospital at churchill.

    Considering the caliber of horses that run there you'd think they would have the best of everything.

    Posted by: cindy a at November 6, 2006 1:38 AM

    Alex,

    I hope you had the best trip. Someone should let Pine Island's family know about the youtube tribute. It so nice.

    Posted by: Mary at November 6, 2006 1:42 AM

    ##Reposting address for Pine Island's connections

    Payson Park
    c/o Claude (Shug) McGaughey
    9700 S. Kanner Highway
    Indiantown, FL 34956

    They will be happy to make sure he receives all cards, etc. when he arrives. His horses are here now. I have done travel for his wife and I will talk to the connections when the time is right about a horse charity or rescue organization for donations in the brave filly's name and let them know what has been done so far. All I can think about is her empty stall this morning.

    Madeleine Pickens - wife of Boone and owner of Cigar paid for 2 full page ads in the Daily Racing Form yesterday.

    The details which we all know are on page 1 and on page 2 it says:

    EACH WEEK THE SENATE WAITS TO END HORSE SLAUGHTER, 2,000 AMERICAN HORSES ARE KILLED FOR DINERS IN FRANCE AND JAPAN. Then has a picture from Grade Foundation of mom and little foal nursing and says - DO THESE HORSES LOOK SICK OR OLD?

    Senators, please protect our horses and our values.

    Senator Thad Cochran 202 224-5054
    Senator Robery Byrd 202 224-3954

    Shelley A,
    Do you know why Cochran's number is on here? I looked at the list and he voted NO last year on stopping taxpayer's money for inspections. I don't know why they put his number on here, Byrd is the co-sponsor of the bill with Ensign so it figures his number is here. Thought you might know the reason they put Cochran's name on this ad for people to call, maybe something we should know about. Glad your beautiful horse is safe.

    Barbaro, we are all praying for a great week for you. Stay strong and patient. Prayers for all the horses who are alone and scared. Let's have an awesome day of calling and faxing tomorrow. Remember it is Monday at Kaufman and that should make us all call more!

    Barb m in Florida

    Posted by: Barb m in Florida at November 6, 2006 1:44 AM

    ########

    Thank you Laura for the article on Fleet Indian. I was worried about her since her owner seemed to be just about money. I was glad to read how mad he was and how well she is doing today. I hope someone wonderful buys her and loves her for ever.

    Posted by: Mary at November 6, 2006 1:47 AM

    Good night dear Barbaro..tucking you in sweetie......

    You have good peopIe..we Iove you and your peopIe so much....


    ### THANKS IYN,a bright spot in our sorrowing for Pine IsIand...

    #### (from Iyn G)
    "the latest re Avi - this is an example of Spirit providing what is needed. He will be coming to live in a field next to his owner's landlord's beautiful home. She's found all the fencing materials she needs in the barn on the property so we're going to get a group of people to put up the fencing and get him home. She can walk to be with him every day, the land is level and now we can focus on healing him for whatever time he wants to be here (he's 21).

    Over 370 candIes and five countries for dear Pine IsIand...

    http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=Pine


    IOVE and PRAYERS FOR BARBARO!
    Iove to aII,
    Iinda a
    oregon

    Posted by: Iinda a oregon at November 6, 2006 1:47 AM

    Another wonderful tribute for a beautiful horse gone from us. Be happy and healthy Pine Island, you are in a better place. Please say Hi to Lost in the Fog.

    I sure did miss seeing you at the Breeder's Cup yesterday Barbaro. What a race that would have been. Please continue to heal and keep that wonderful attitude. I wear my bracelet every day and smile whenever I look at it. God Bless You Baby.

    Congratulations to Michael Matz on his win with Round Pond.

    Sleep well Barbaro...Good night.

    Stacey

    Posted by: Stacey Streeter at November 6, 2006 1:56 AM

    Glad to hear Boxcar is doing well. :):):)


    ((((Alex))))Welcome Home!! Thank you for keeping us up to date on our precious ((((Barbaro)))).

    Posted by: Pat G San Jose, Ca at November 6, 2006 2:01 AM

    Good evening, Champ:
    ACN, ACD! You inspire us all! Love to you!
    God Bless the Fog, God Bless Pine Island!
    Daryl

    Posted by: Daryl Smoliak at November 6, 2006 2:13 AM

    Cindy a, found the article on Bloodhorse on the time delay for the 2nd equine ambulance in the distaff. I just copied and pasted the whole article. Just wanted to give her credit.


    Shelley, glad that Boxcar is well, remember how great Smarty was after his gate incident. I have a feeling your boy is going to become one very focused man. I cant wait to see it happen. Good Luck.


    To everyone, thanks for the hand holding today, I feel better. I wish I had those dont-give-a-damn feelings, but these still waters run deep. I appreciate each and everyone of you here.


    For all who need the prayers and energy, I am holding you in my thoughts. I havent been around much life has kept me busy and anxious, but you are always close to my heart.

    Posted by: Laura in Key West at November 6, 2006 2:14 AM

    Well, little Erin's fundraiser went very well, but Rachael went into hospital today. A lack of iron. Let's all pray and hope for both.
    I'm so glad Linda H. is doing well.
    Im still very upset over seeing Pine Island fall, and hearing the result. I know many of you are too.

    I think I'll go to bed , and hope for some positive energy tomorrow to make calls again. Bobby never quits so I can't.
    Shelley A. , I'm so glad Boxcar is okay. and thats good news about Avi and Lyn G. too. So its not all depressing is it.

    Goodnight Barbaro, Have a wonderful healing night and I will see you in the morning. Pats on your beautiful jaw, sweet one. night to all.

    Posted by: Bobbie B at November 6, 2006 2:20 AM

    ####
    Rachel, please listen to the doctors and be a good patient like Barbaro. Hope you will soon be feeling much better.

    ####
    What a beautiful tribute to Pine Island. A more perfect song could not have been chosen. Enya's voice is a prayer in itself and the etheral quality of the music was so fitting to the gentle spirit of Pine Island. Roam the great plains of the uncharted territory in peace dear girl.

    So sweet boy - Dr. R. took you out for your pick of grass and Peter came to groom you and change your bandages. You must love them deeply. Their dedicated hands bring much comfort to you. Rest dear Barbaro, changes are coming your way. I dearly hope that you are ready for the splint. It should be more comfortable. You have been so good about accepting all the things you had to do to get where you are now. Please accept this splint and be extra careful with it. No horseplaying around with it. Keep mending your toe and growing your hoof. Butterfly kisses from Bella, Gracie and me, big fella!

    ####
    LindaH.- hope every day finds you getting stronger.

    ####
    Mike Rea, follow your therapy and don't feel down. You have come so far in your recovery. You inspire us daily.

    Posted by: Rosemary in NE OHIO at November 6, 2006 2:20 AM

    Laura, Thanks. I just read the petition and signed it. Good luck!

    Posted by: Maria at November 6, 2006 2:21 AM

    Barb m

    Don't know why Senator's Cochran and Byrd are mentioned in that ad but I guess it means we should put them on our list!!

    Socorro....are you out there? Can you add them to the Senators to Focus on

    Posted by: ShelleyA at November 6, 2006 2:24 AM

    What A Great Tribute To The Pretty Girl Pine Island. Thank You For That. Thank You Also For The Great News That Our Barbaro Is Doing Well. He Certainly Must Be A Wonder Horse To Go Through All He Has And Keep His Attitude Like It Is. Have A Great Week To Big B And All Of The Barbaro Angels. Thank You To All That Are Working On The Horse Slaughter Bill. You All Are Angels To Our 4 Legged Friends.

    Posted by: Ed In Nebraska at November 6, 2006 2:28 AM

    Shelley: I am sure glad Boxcar is doing ok! He sure didn't race as expected, but after smacking his head I can understand why! Poor baby, wait until the gate opens!!!!!

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 6, 2006 2:29 AM

    ####

    SHEILA, if it makes you feel any better, I have two pitbulls (father -daughter) who get into scuffles (looks and sounds like a major war) once in a blue moon. They have little scars to prove it.

    I would not panic and run to the clinic, and I'm a nut about my dogs. I use triple antibiotic ointment. Only problem is they lick it off if they can reach it. What is so desirable about this ointment, I don't know. Anyway, see if the wound stops bleeding and starts forming a scab. The ointment protects it pretty good. Another problem is the scar left on an otherwise beautiful coat - doesn't look too great..

    Posted by: Christine at November 6, 2006 2:33 AM

    Susan E. - they were really just fighting for attention. I know it sounds crazy, but they are horrible when my husband is out and I am home with them myself. It's like they know that the disciplinarian has left the building and they can misbehave. They never act up when he is home - he says I am too much of a softie which I am beginning to believe after tonight's episode. They both came over for me to pet them and the pointer got mad at the lab when he got too close. The lab didn't take it well...and the end result is my pointer nursing his wounds.
    Christine - it does make me feel better to hear about your pitbulls getting into it but still living together. My biggest worry after tonight was them co-existing for the long term. We haven't had the lab too long, and the pointer is struggling with his place in the house with our new family member now here. I'm way past worrying about how the pointer looks - he's got a couple of ugly skin tags and gray hair around his muzzle - I call him my crotchety old man. A few scars will just add to his character, but I don't want to go through this again anytime soon!
    I'm not panicking anymore - but still flushing his wound and applying antibiotic ointment. He's definitely stiff from his battle - getting around ok but not his usually bouncing self.

    Posted by: Sheila at November 6, 2006 2:42 AM

    Goodnight to all FOB,

    I hope everyone sleeps well and has a great Monday, as if thats possible. You know a bad day at home is better than a good day at work! LOL
    I'm glad to hear Barbaro was taken good care of today. I hope he enjoyed his time outside. Please Lord let him continue to heal and get stronger. He is our angel on Earth.

    Alex, Thanks for all that you do for FOB, it is appreciated by all. I'm glad you had a good weekend at Churchill.

    Prayers to all who are ill, afraid or suffering. May you feel the Lord's comforting presence.
    Dear Lord as always please have mercy on the defenseless.
    Linda H I'm thinking of you today I hope you will be home soon and have a speedy recovery.
    cindy a

    Posted by: cindy a at November 6, 2006 2:44 AM

    ALEX,
    Welcome back! So happy you had a wonderful time.
    Wow...what a weekend...(highs and lows considered).
    High note: Our "Bond Beauty" Camp bet Round Pond to win! That was excellent!!
    Low note: Pine Island...it's just terrible and wished they could have saved her. Still asking why they couldn't??? It makes us really appreciate that BARBARO is still here with us.

    WHAT A HEARTBREAKER THE TRIBUTE TO PINE ISLAND IS. Thank you jfrank17.

    BARBARO,
    Thank god you're still with us..........

    Posted by: Debra, WI at November 6, 2006 2:45 AM

    Congrats to Michael, Edgar and Round Pond on a good race; So sad re Pine Island, and it was weird, I was watching on TV and it looked like her head bobbed funny, then the cameras moved to the leaders. I wondered but thought it was probably my imagination. Re the Classic; it was predictable in an uncertain way - very hard for a horse to consistently win and beat everyone. I'm old enough to remember Kelso, my favorite horse ever, and how he managed year after year to beat the best - not always, not everytime, but under lots of weight, long distances and so on.
    Five times horse of the year! That to me is a great horse. It's a tough situation - race or breed - and given the risks on the track, I would vote for breeding if it was my horse! I'm lucky enough to own an OLD (16) t-bred who flopped at the track and is now a dressage horse trained to Prix st. George. I'm so glad he was too big and gangly to be a viable 2-yr old!! He sends wishes to Barbaro all the time...

    Posted by: K. Dennis at November 6, 2006 2:48 AM

    Alex, just watched the video tribute for Pine Island by J. Frank, and the tears are running again - for Pine Island, Lost In The Fog, Precisionist, all those horse angels on the other side. Can't imagine how Pine Island's loved ones feel right now. . .
    THANKS to J. FRANK for that tribute - beautiful.

    Need to sign off, getting rather emotional, just can't stop thinking of all our equine friends tonight, those over the Rainbow Bridge and those here with us, those especially in need, and, of course, read that Dr. Richardson took Barbaro out himself today and cried more because of all the love, that bond; for Lyn G. and Avi, Mr. Boxcar, and well just for all the horses.

    My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro!
    Hugs and prayers for all who need them tonight. . .

    ########
    LINDA H. - so happy to hear how well you are doing, hope you are getting top notch care - butI also know there is no place like home . . . prayers continue for your path!

    SHEILA - I hope the boys have settled down, please hug them both for me, yes both; and I hope Mickey's wounds aren't terribly serious when you see vet in a.m.

    and really thinking of RACHEL @ KF. . .

    Good Night, peace to all

    Posted by: Lou Ann, Pennsylvania at November 6, 2006 2:51 AM

    Ok, ok...I sat in front of the computer with the link copied for the Pine Island tribute for 20 minutes before I finally had the courage to play it. Crying and crying...but smiling through the tears as I saw the beauty that was Pine Island. My heart breaks for her people - as upset as I am over this terrible loss I can only imagine how much deeper it is for those who knew her. Signing off for tonight before I get too sad. Thinking of all FOBs who need prayers and support. See you all tomorrow.

    Posted by: Sheila at November 6, 2006 2:57 AM

    You are all so wonderful here - I used to think of myself as a generous person who would think of things and ways to help others, and animals in particuar, but there seems to be no end to the deep caring feelings and inspiration reaching new heights here every day, in every way. Oh, Pine Island, how we miss thee.

    Is there a limit to what we can do? I haven't seen it yet, and think we all owe it to Barbaro, our Champion, who has raised our consciousness to higher levels, leading and following to create a better world for animals, and indeed their caretakers. If the world were peopled with more like you all here, we would not have the world problems we have. This site is not only a refuge from the outrages we see in the world outside, but it is also creating a force which may affect the world outside to every person's, every animal's, benefit.

    I know I feel blessed - and challenged - to be here. Thank you all.

    With love and admiration, we believe.

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at November 6, 2006 2:59 AM

    Shelley, so glad Boxcar is OK. Keep us posted on the race on the 18th.
    LindaH, glad to hear your doing well.
    Rachel, get well girl!! Glad to hear the auction went well for Erin.

    Barbaro, sleep well boy and keep growing that hoof, one day at a time!

    Night to all you Barbaromaniacs!

    Posted by: Nancy in Va Beach at November 6, 2006 3:00 AM

    ###
    FOBs - need your advice. My dogs just got into it - I've got a 10 yr old pointer who refused to concede being the alpha dog and a 2 yr old choc lab who is generally laid back, but just now my pointer snapped at him, and the lab responded by biting the pointer on the left hind. He has punctured the skin - no profuse bleeding but definitely a puncture. The pointer is laying on his bed nursing a hurt ego - doesn't appear to be in pain but is definitely shaken up. I don't really know if I should do anything with the wound - and cannot really afford an emergency Sunday evening visit to the animal hospital. Does anyone have any advice?

    Posted by Sheila at November 5, 2006 10:45 PM

    ##############
    Don't know if anyone else has responded to this plea, and I hope I don't get into trouble for dispensing veterinary advice without a license, but since you asked, here goes:

    Flush the puncture wound out with plain hydrogen peroxide right out of the bottle, using an oral syringe (if you have one) to get the antiseptic into the wound. If you don't have an oral syringe, you could use an eyedropper. Don't cover the hole, and don't put anything on it that will plug it up (such as a salve type product, like a triple antibiotic ointment). I would leave it alone after flushing with peroxide - and I presume you will be taking the injured dog to the vet during regular hours tomorrow. You can't be too careful with bites/puncture wounds, too easily become infected. Your vet will probably want to clean out the wound and give a shot of some antibiotic and then depending on how it seems to the vet at that time, may or may not give you some kind of topical antibiotic to use. Hope this helps. Let us know the outcome. CJ in Hammond IN

    Posted by: C. Jaffe at November 6, 2006 3:06 AM

    Sheila,

    One more note for the future - after my share of those unpredictable dog moments (your dogs are both neutered, right?) I find the best method is to try to neutralize the situation if you begin to see the signs, with a giant and overwhelming NO! before they even know you know. They get so embarrassed and go hide their heads (sometimes)... and Rescue Remedy or Calms will help them take the edge off if something does start. I also try to divert their attention with quick obedience class in the living room or wherever they are, making them sit and wait or do a long down for treats, focused on you instead of each other.

    Another tip I have learned from various vets is that Betadine is better than peroxide for cleaning bite wounds or cuts, because peroxide actually kills some of the cells around the wound, while Betadine doesn't and allows the wound to heal better.

    Good luck - hopefully time will eliminate this difficulty for the pups.

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at November 6, 2006 3:13 AM

    ###
    I think there is a difference between overkill and letting the public know what happened. Overkill is when NBC showed Go For Wand breaking down 11 times. I thought ESPN did a very tasteful job with it.

    WHen I watched the actual race I didnt even see what happned to Pine Island because my eyes were on Round Pond the whole way. I pretty much didn't even see anyone else. But when I watched it again I watched her and by the time the Jockey was on her head they had switched to a close up view of the front runners. So would not have known exactly what happened.

    Posted by: Lynda Pellitteri From SE Texas at November 6, 2006 3:13 AM

    HORSE SLAUGHTER BAN WEB POLL CURRENT STANDINGS--PLEASE VOTE!!

    www.ksdk.com

    WEB POLL RESULTS
    Should the United States have laws banning the slaughter of horses?
    Yes 3040 Votes
    No 1544 Votes
    I don't know 481 Votes

    Total Votes Cast: 5065


    Posted by: Susan E. at November 6, 2006 3:14 AM

    Hello Barbaro,

    If I read the updates correctly, you have more than enough friends who want to spend time with you! Too cute Honey!

    I'm glad that Peter was there to groom you. You are so special Barbaro and the people in your life prove it every day. I can't tell if you are surrounded more by love or truly good hearted, loving, loyal people.

    What do you say we settle you in for the night? Grab your blanket that you left in the corner and cuddle up Honey. Chances are you had some wonderful conversations with both Dr. Richardson and Peter today. Both men have probably given you some fun things to think about! Now close your eyes and let your mind wander over the memory of those conversations Barbaro. Fun, huh?!

    While you sleep Honey, may the healing continue through the night and strength carry you through your day tomorrow. I'll be here in the morning to check on the update from Alex. Dream the sweetest dreams Barbaro. I love you. Good night. XXOOo OOps, an extra hug! That's what we call a "happy accident" Honey! Good night!

    Posted by: Laurie H. in MN at November 6, 2006 3:17 AM

    LINNIE wrote: OMG ... IF THE BIG B spends ANY time in the beautiful, balmy, warm climate of South Florida (hint, hint!!), I would DIE to actually get a glimpse of him! OK ... another dream to be realized!! Seeing B and taking a pic with him?????? Am I asking too much!!!!!???? They say that whatever you want you must keep seeing it in your mind ... every single day, keep visualizing what you want, and thought WILL CREATE REALITY!! So, we must ALL see Bobby here in South Florida and US THERE WITH HIM!!! OMG, OMG!!!>>

    MAYBE it WILL HAPPEN! No, you're not asking too much - you've been worrying and fretting and praying over this boy for 5 months..

    ----------------------
    JANICE, you got the map out? Oh no, you're not anxious.. I think it's a good idea to send B down there - you are so right about the winters here in the NE - brutal at times, icy, frozen. And Dr. R can commute on a regular basis - it's not far at all.. 2 hours on jetBlue..

    WHATEVER is best for Barbaro - that's what we want. Do they sell baby carrots with green tops in Palm Beach County?

    Posted by: Christine at November 6, 2006 3:19 AM

    Hi Folks:

    Saying prayers and lighting candles for all of our human and animal friends.

    #####
    Bdudeisdoing great - thanks for all the prayers and good thoughts.

    Let's jump on the phones tomorrow and put an end to horse slaughter for Bobby, Foggy and Pine Island.

    Steve & Bdude

    Posted by: Steve & BDude at November 6, 2006 3:23 AM

    Christine - if they sell green topped carrots in Key West they must sell them in Palm Beach County!

    Posted by: Sally in Key West at November 6, 2006 3:24 AM

    Good evening, FOB's! I'm still excited about how well Round Pond ran yesterday! She was magnificient!! But, I almost forgot to congratulate Tim for his win with RedAspen - Bravo, Bravo, Tim!!! I'm so glad Mr. Boxcar is OK. That was scary! He is precious and such a good boy, who probably is in need of some aspirin right now!

    Time for bed for me, Bobby J. I hope you sleep well tonite. If you do go south with your Michael, at least I know you'll be in good hands. Your Dr. Dean will visit, I'm sure, and if you need him, he's just a hop, skip, and a plane ride away. Gosh, the Jacksons would really miss you, too. Maybe everyone will move south to "winter" with the Big B.?!?

    Sweet Dreams, King of all Equines! I love you, boy. Talk to you tomorrow...

    Sleep well, Pine Island. Your life was short, but had deep meaning to all who loved you. You mattered; you will never be forgotten.

    Posted by: Judy B at November 6, 2006 3:27 AM

    As I stated previously, these precious horses deserve better.. ***much*** better treatment than what they're getting.

    Fleet Indian waiting 20 minutes for an ambulance? If there were 2 professional athletes injured on a field, if one was carried off the field, would the other have to wait even 10 minutes let alone 20 minutes before a stretcher became available to carry him off the field so he could receive the appropriate medical attention?

    Unacceptable, unacceptable, unacceptable...

    Daphne

    Posted by: Daphne at November 6, 2006 3:35 AM

    I am just swamped here and can't read all the posts; but would love to watch the Pine Island tribute, if someone wouldn't mind telling me where it is. Thanks!

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at November 6, 2006 3:40 AM

    Barbaro, we love you very much. You will be in our hearts as your cast is removed/changed this week. Peter is your great friend and I'm so happy he is always there for you.

    Alex, so glad you arrived safely and didn't have to hang out in the airport until tomorrow!

    Daphne and Pee

    Posted by: Daphne at November 6, 2006 3:40 AM

    Good night, sweet Velvet Nose,and congratulations on completing ACW!!!

    Sleep extra well and heal even more tonight. You have a big week coming up, with the cast removal. So when you dream tonight, dream of yourself coming through the anesthesia with flying colors. Dream of a strong, healthy, healed right rear leg. Dream of standing strong and foursquare, with a beautiful healthy left rear hoof and no laminitis, ever again. Dream of moving around and the wind in your mane, but safely. Be extra careful getting up and down tonight. NO clowning, especially when you get that cast off. Listen to Dr. Dean!

    Good night, Barbaro Nation. Good thoughts to those who are ailing, and please think of my Felix and send him some thoughts of recovery.

    Posted by: Susan E. at November 6, 2006 3:49 AM

    Precious Barbaro - Sunday night is here again and you've completed yet another comfortable week. I heard that Dr. might remove your cast very soon and put something called a splint on your leg. Maybe this will be your last cast change, Bobby. No more of that nasty anesthesia and the confusing pool recovery. Just one more time. I love you, you are perfect. Beautiful, brave, UNDEFEATED CHAMPION. Praying hard for you and loving you always. Already waiting for more good news of you. XXXXs & 0000s now and forever.

    Posted by: Elizabeth at November 6, 2006 3:49 AM

    Barbaro, you were voted Champion of 2006! I knew you would win you Big Beautiful Boy! To me you will be the Champion of a Lifetime, and Forever!
    I took my walk through my field and into the woods today and found a very large pine tree, I put 6 pinecones in a circle with 3 flowers in the circle forming the initials PI, as I was saying a prayer for Pine Island, I heard footsteps behind me and lo and behold a beautiful buck was standing about 20 ft from me just watching me and then hung his head down for a few minutes and quietly walked away as though he was saying his good bye to Pine Island too, it was very touching. The Tribute was so beautiful and hard for me to watch, I will miss her, may she be with Foggy, Darlin and all of the dear horses.
    mary mi

    Posted by: mary at November 6, 2006 3:52 AM

    Marilyn/CA, the tribute link is posted at the top by Alex. It is beautiful...

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at November 6, 2006 3:52 AM

    Sweet Barbaro,
    So glad to hear all is well with you and you're getting your cast off this coming week.

    Thank you for your recent email from UPenn with your new pictures!
    I just received your Breyer Model and it is gorgeous.

    So sorry to hear about Pine Island.
    Glad to hear Alex went to the Breeders Cup.

    I haven't posted in awhile but read your updates daily and have lit candles.

    I have 2 sick yellow labs, one has bone cancer and her brother has had 2 cancerous tumors removed in the last 10 months and he is sick again. They will be 12 in December and it makes me so sad...

    #####
    Linnie, Janice & Florida FOB,
    Please let me know when you are planning to go to Palm Meadows I would like to join you all if possible. I live about 20 minutes from there and have wanted to go there. It depends on my dogs health but I hope I can go.

    Time for bed, everyone have a good evening!


    Posted by: Patty S in So Fla at November 6, 2006 4:08 AM

    Wow, Mary ....... what an amazing tribute !

    Sherry

    Posted by: sherry at November 6, 2006 4:08 AM

    Good nite sweet Barbaro...get tucked in nice and warm.

    Pine Island-May you rest in peace beautiful one.
    There is a good lookin boy waiting for you..his name is Lost In The Fog!

    Posted by: Lynn in Austin, Texas at November 6, 2006 4:17 AM

    ########
    THERESE-I am so glad you liked that good ole fattening pound cake! I swear we used to steal the butter and suger and sneak to my cousin Libby's house for her to make the cake for us! We would laugh and just have the best time cooking together and guzzling milk and eating pund cake. It is too luscious and delicious and decadent. OOH I wish I had some right now!!
    ###########
    BARBARO-Goodnight Big Ole Boy! I will see you in the a.m. I love you very much!

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 4:41 AM

    ######
    THERESE-We stole ingredients from our own home, not the grocery store, by the way...LOL Makes me kinda look like a really bad girl!

    GODSPEED, PINE ISLAND, GODSPEED.

    Posted by: Dora J Crow/Montgomery,Alabama at November 6, 2006 4:43 AM

    Precious Barbaro: May our Heavenly Father give you a night of rest and more healing. May He wake you to a glorious day of sunshine and healthy grazing. Father, please continue to hold our Barbaro in your healing arms and protect him, Father, from any setbacks. May his cast change this week be positive with another excellent pool recovery.
    Father, thank you for the "Miracle of Barbaro".

    Lost in the Fog: My angel......your candle is glowing. May you feel the love from it's glowing light and know that I miss you still and love you so..
    Father, thank you for "Lost in the Fog".

    Barbaro Team: May our Father greet you all with a glorious day of happiness, peace and love. Thank you for being there for all of us when we need prayers and encouragement for ourselves, families, and "furry" friends.
    May God bless you and yours.

    "God will either lighten our load or strengthen our backs".--

    Alex: Welcome home.....great to have you back. What would we do without you? Thank you for all that you do.


    Jeanette Cavalier

    "Please Pray for the Horses"

    Posted by: Jeanette Cavalier at November 6, 2006 4:46 AM

    ###

    For you Steve Irwin Fans:



    " target="_blank">Memorial Tribute


    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 6, 2006 4:47 AM

    ***

    dang, didn't work.. will try it again. :(

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 6, 2006 4:48 AM

    Here is what Mary L. is trying to get to you!!
    A Tribute to Steve Irwin
    Brought to you by Mary L. in Ohio!!

    Posted by: jock4hire at November 6, 2006 4:55 AM

    My goodness. What a sweet-spirited girl Pine Island was. It just shines through the tribute.

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at November 6, 2006 5:04 AM

    ##########
    Thanks Mary and jock4hire for getting this link posted - and I have to add that this came to me in an email from Susan E and I reached out to Mary L to get it posted because Susan E said she didn't know how. ANYWAY - me being a stickler for credit where credit is due, I had to add this source. It's a great little collection of cartoon tributes to Steve Irwin.

    My personal favorite is one crocodile saying to another, "He made me feel beautiful."

    CJ in Hammond IN

    Posted by: C. Jaffe at November 6, 2006 5:08 AM

    aGAIN, ANOTHER TRAGIC 'DAY AT THE TRACK.' BARBARO, I HOPE YOU SENT A MESSAGE TO ALL THOSE BEAUTIFUL RACE HORSES. I DON'T THINK I CAN SEE ANOTHER CREATURE BEING DESTROYED. GOD, PLEASE GIVE US STRENGTH. ALEX, THANK YOU FOR ALL THE UP DATES WHICH I NOW CHECK TWICE A DAY...
    LAURIE FULLER AND FAMILY (LUKE AND GRANT0.

    Posted by: laurie fuller at November 6, 2006 5:16 AM

    ###

    Thanks CJ

    I was just coming to add the credit (had to look up the names from the email you sent me) after jockrhire told me he posted it on the forum...


    Thanks for allowing me to work on it for you all and thanks jock4hire in "coding" it on. I will get this down sometime!!

    Posted by: Mary L Ohio at November 6, 2006 5:16 AM

    Patty- I will say prayers for your two yellow labs, what are their names? I have two labs too, a chocolate and a black, they are our boys that we love dearly, I know from experience what you are going through with your babies, my previous chocolate lab Sandy had cancerous tumors at the age of eight and was in alot of pain at night and incontinent at night but during the day she would still put on her clown acts and had the most beautiful green eyes and she would seem to hide her pain and discomfort. You might want to check with different vets in case there is a new vaccine out because I seen on the news a couple weeks ago a new drug that they are using for canine tumors that actually take the tumors away, I will see if I can find out anything I can for you. Just stay strong and show them your love,
    mary mi

    Posted by: mary at November 6, 2006 5:22 AM

    Good evening to Friends and Fans of Barbaro and Horse Lovers Everywhere!

    I saw the Tribute to Pine Island, and found it be quite touching and very moving. It was all I could do keep myself from crying my eyeballs out.

    Also saw the picture of Round Pond with Edgar on board. Did you notice that it appears that none of Round Pond's feet are touching the ground? Not only was that horse moving, she was FLYING!
    Way to go, lady!

    So glad that Linda H. is going home from the hospital soon. Hope she continues to recover with no complications.

    Soryy to see that Rachel of Kennett Florist is in the hospital needing a blood transfusion. That does not sound good to have to have a transfusion. I hope they will soon know what the problem is, so she can get treatment and be back up and running again! Let me know the name of Rachel's candle group, and I will light a candle for her.

    Has anybody heard how Barbaro's photographer Sabina is doing? She takes such great pictures! Hope she will be back up and running soon, too!

    I don't know if I'll be able to do much about Emailing Senators tomorrow. In the Pacific Northwest, we are expecting a very strong storm later tonight, and throughout the day Monday. This new storm is packing winds of 20-30MPH, with gusts up to 50MPH. Also expect rainfall to total 6 inches, before it is all over. I will be surprised if the power stays on, as the ground here is already saturated, and it will not take much to topple trees onto the powerlines serving the substations, so please wish us luck in getting through this thing!

    Well, gotta go now, but my best to all of you out there in Barbaroland! Keep hounding those Senators! Thanks!

    Laura S. in now soggy Washington State!

    Posted by: Laura S. in Snohomish, WA at November 6, 2006 5:39 AM

    #######
    I saw that same pic of Round Pond...reminds us of Barbaro's Derby pic...all 4 hooves off the ground...breathtaking!!!!!!!!

    Posted by: Tracie at November 6, 2006 5:50 AM

    Good Evening all
    Sorry for such a late update, just got in, visited LindaH with Barb this afternoon. She looks FANTASTIC. She is a fighter. I told her she must have Barbaro blood.

    Shortly after arriving her RPT came in for a breathing treatment. Not a whimper, not a whine, not a flinch. She did so well, it is absolutely amazing.

    She's had a couple of rather restless nights. The pain medication makes her more wakeful than she'd like, and she is tired. But you'd never know it to look at her or talk to her. We were there for about an hour and 40 minutes, and I was a little concerned about her becoming overtired, but she was a gracious hostess, and was glad to have the company. Her DB Ed left for home right after we arrived, as he had some household duties to catch up on, as Linda may be going home on Tuesday. Her doc told her this morning that her chest tube may come out tomorrow, and if so, home Tuesday. She wants to go home so badly, so she can get some REST and get back to some sense of normalcy. She was sitting up comfortably, and didn't look at all like someone who had just had major surgery for a potentially life-threatening condition 76 hours or so before.

    She said to say thank you for her flowers that arrived Friday. She wanted to know how everyone was. She watched the BC yesterday, and we talked about it, about Pine Island, about how Barbaro's time at the Derby beat Invasor's yesterday, taking nothing away from Invasor, of course, but just confirming what we already believe, that Barbaro would have been unbeatable. We talked about how we all think at this time that we won't be watching or attending races until there are measures taken to protect our horses from serious injuries and fatal breakdowns, and how we believe that many horselovers such as we are probably have the same opinion, which will seriously impact the industry and sport. We wondered how long it will be before things change.

    And of course we pondered over why things in life happen the way they do, will we ever understand them and yet accepting that they happen for a reason even though that may never be known by us mere mortals.

    We talked about how we'd like to have a "union" at some point in the future. Not a "reunion" as most of us have never met. But we'd certainly like to, and look forward to such a "union".

    Almost forgot to mention ..the pathology on the nodes taken in the area near the mass were clean. The mass was completely excised. At this time, four, maybe five chemos are planned. Just to make sure. Malignancy can sometimes migrate to parts of the body you wouldn't necessarily expect, so just to be safe.

    She is so grateful for all the support, the prayers and the candles. Not surprised, because of the people here, but grateful

    Glad to hear that Boxcar is okay ( at least what I skimmed through gave the appearance he's okay ) grateful for Barbaro's continued healing, and for Alex' safe return

    Love to all, prayers for all

    Cheryl

    Posted by: Cheryl Jones at November 6, 2006 5:51 AM

    ######
    Laura, Rachel's candle group is Rach...& my post above was to you...getting late....l

    Sabina posted the other day. I think Alex put it at the top in the updates...

    Posted by: Tracie at November 6, 2006 5:53 AM

    Hey, Mary -

    You must have missed the news! JOCK4HIRE IS A ...drumroll>>> GIRL !!!

    Do we all have stereotypes, or what ???

    She posted a photograph some time back, after some of the other "girls" on here tried to suggest a "date" to learn more about horses, because he/she was so interesting and funny!

    She is also a cancer survivor, as well as the survivor of a terrific accident with a horse falling on her with long rehab time... her stories are on the forum under "Cheers for Good People" (General subjects) and "Questions for Jock4Hire" under Horse Racing. She also has a terrific site with a story about racing, sound effects and all, in one of her posts that you can click on. A very talented woman who has provided lots of racing insight, over on the forum.

    Good night, Mary...

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at November 6, 2006 6:16 AM

    Such wonderful news about Linda H! It really sounds like it all went very well. I hope she will be home soon. Cheryl, thanks for letting us know.

    Posted by: Marilyn/CA at November 6, 2006 6:16 AM

    Hi Patti- I couldn't find the info I wanted to find but at www.dogflu.ca, there is alot of info on numerous things and at dogcancer.net there is info on many types of canine cancer and a number to call to see if they can help you find a vet that specializes in a certain cancer or has new research on certain types of canine cancer.
    I had gone to www.cbsnightlynews to find out and found these two websites.
    mary mi

    Posted by: mary at November 6, 2006 6:36 AM

    Patti, its me again! Forgot to tell you, go to -canine cancer treatments, when you go to this page it shows a whole bunch of websites to see about cures for canine cancers. Hope this helps.
    mary mi

    Posted by: mary at November 6, 2006 6:44 AM

    Mary, MI - Such a beautiful image, in the forest with Pine Island and the buck, so beautiful and magical.

    Patty S - I am so sorry to hear about your labs. One would be hard, but two - ! That is a real whammy, and the hardest thing is watching innocent animals suffer. My last Dane died of osteosarcoma, and we followed a primarily holistic treatment rather than chemo or radiation. I know there have been many developments lately in treatment which might be positive for you. I hope you have a good vet, and a nearby specialty or teaching vet hospital which can be of use to you without costing enormous sums. There are also some very good websites/groups online specifically for these conditions which I would be happy to forward to you if you like. Please email me at shayse2@yahoo.com if so... In the meantime, wish we were closer to help. Cheryl Jones (hAy, it's me bArbaro) has also had this experience and has a very close relationship with a vet... she may have some specific recommendations for you.

    Good night, fellow travelers, another day of mixed emotions and renewed faith, thanks for our kind, benevolent Alex, keeper of all our words, and thanks also and evermore to our Brave Boy asleep in a dream of carefree racing in a perfect world. Lost in the Fog and Pine Island, a beautiful pair of angels, watching over the dream.

    Posted by: Shelley in CA at November 6, 2006 6:52 AM

    Thanks for the info, Tracie. I went ahead and lit one for Rach. She only has 3 candles going, so let's light more, FFOBs!

    For Rosemary in NE Ohio, here are some more towns where my parents had relatives. They are Columbus, Dayton, Springfield and Millersport. I'll probably think of more town names later.
    Hope your weather is better than mine!

    Laura S. in soggy windy Washington State!

    Posted by: Laura S. in Snohomish, WA at November 6, 2006 6:56 AM

    Well Precious Barbaro, time to call it a night. This week is a big week for you and I lit an extra candle for the cast coming off. I am so proud of you big guy. Your trainer and jockey won the breeders cup...yeah! They need you more than you will ever know. Give Michael some loving, he needs it! I'll be keeping a close eye on you. Sleep tight sweet boy, be good!

    Sweet Warrior Foggy, forever in my heart...sleep tight sweet prince.

    Alex....glad you had a good time, you deserve to hobnob with the best of the best! I hope you got pictures for us here!

    Posted by: sharonlynn at November 6, 2006 7:05 AM

    All content & images copyright © 2005-2012 Alex Brown. Designed by Nerja Web Design