Barbaro finishes 2006 on the upswing

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Kennett Square, PA (Sports Network) - The end of 2006 brings continued good news on the condition of Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro. His medical team reports that the colt has improved strength in his right hind leg.

"Barbaro will need a special shoe on his right hind foot that will provide extra support for at least the next several months," said Dr. Dean Richardson, Chief of Surgery. The cast on Barbaro's right hind leg was removed more than a month ago.

Barbaro is also recovering from laminitis in his left hind hoof.

"The left hind foot is progressing slowly although his comfort on that foot remains acceptable," said Dr. Richardson. "Most importantly, Barbaro’s overall condition is continuing to improve and he weighs more now than at any time during his hospitalization."

Dr. Richardson has been awarded the Big Sport of Turfdom award from the Turf Publicists of America. The organization will present Richardson with the honor at the Big Sport of Turfdom luncheon on Monday, January 22.

"In good times and bad, Dr. Richardson stood front and center to graciously provide enormous hordes of media with up-to-the-minute developments about Barbaro in the weeks and months following the colt’s life-threatening injury in the Preakness Stakes and during a nearly fatal bout with laminitis a few weeks later," explained TPA president John Lee. "He patiently explained, in layman’s terms, every aspect of the treatment and procedures he and his colleagues were employing to save the colt’s life. He made himself very accessible and he is a most deserving winner of the Big Sport award."

The award is presented annually to a person or group of people who enhances coverage of Thoroughbred racing through cooperation with the media and Thoroughbred racing publicists.

Meanwhile, a replica of Barbaro will go on sale to benefit the care of horses. A model of the thoroughbred will be unveiled at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine’s George D. Widener Hospital at New Bolton Center on Wednesday, December 13. Proceeds from the sale of the model will go to the New Bolton Center.

The Barbaro model was developed by Breyer Animal Creations. Breyer designs and sells equine-themed toys and collectibles.