Barbaro (horse)

Barbaro (April 29, 2003 – January 29, 2007) was an American Thoroughbred racehorse who won the 2006 Kentucky Derby in impressive fashion, remaining undefeated at that point in his career. He was owned by Roy and Gretchen Jackson's Lael Stables and trained by Michael Matz.

Barbaro's victory in the Kentucky Derby was followed by a disappointing run in the Preakness Stakes, where he fractured his right hind leg during the early stages of the race. The injury was severe, involving multiple breaks.

Following the injury, Barbaro underwent extensive surgery and months of rehabilitation at the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center. His fight to recover from the injury and associated complications captured the attention of the public. Despite numerous surgeries and therapies, Barbaro developed laminitis in his left hind foot, a painful and often fatal condition in horses.

After months of struggling, and with his quality of life significantly diminished, Barbaro was euthanized on January 29, 2007. His story led to increased awareness and research funding for equine laminitis. He was later cremated, and his ashes were interred at the entrance to Gate 1 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, where a bronze statue of Barbaro was erected in his honor.