By the time you read this we'll know whether the Derby winner lives or dies, after Saturday's horrific misstep that may cost Barbaro his life. Surgery started at 12:30, and he has multiple fractures. I think if he were any horse other than the Derby winner, he might already have been euthanized.
As it is, that's still a possibility. And all it was, was a misstep. Nobody's fault, just an accident. I've said a few prayers for him. We know his racing career is over, but now what he's fighting for is his life.
These horses do what we ask them to because running is a part of them. And the ending isn't always pretty. Injury ends their careers or their lives, and people who look at them as only an investment send them off to slaughterhouses when they 'outlive their usefulness.' Were Barbaro to never run another race, he has more than earned a long stud career and that's what I'm hoping for right now for him, if he survives.
If you're considering finding a riding horse or a possible show jumper perhaps, consider a retired racehorse. There are more up for adoption than can possibly find homes. Some even help juvenile delinquents learn what it's like to care for another creature and get unconditional love in return. Check out NTRA.com and learn more - there are several organizations throughout the US, including Horse Haven here in Michigan.
In the meantime, think well of Barbaro, whatever the outcome, and every other horse who runs for our entertainment - and wish for better ends for all of them.
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