HARRISBURG – Calling the fight for life by Kentucky Derby Winner Barbaro “an inspirational Pennsylvania story,” Lieutenant Governor Catherine Baker Knoll commended the compassion of the horse’s owners and the professional capability of the medical team that worked so hard to save him.
Barbaro was euthanized yesterday, eight months after suffering a triple leg fracture in the opening seconds of the Preakness, the second leg of horseracing’s triple crown.
“This horse and the people who did so much to give it every possible chance to survive have earned the admiration of the entire nation,” said Knoll.
“At first we applauded the raw talent of Barbaro, and later we came to cheer his courage. The incredible resourcefulness and know-how of Dr. Dean Richardson and his University of Pennsylvania New Bolton Center staff were on display throughout the attempt to save Barbaro.
“All Pennsylvanians, indeed all Americans, are in sympathy with the difficult decision made by Barbaro’s owners, Gretchen and Roy Jackson. They raised a winner and when it was clear the pain could not be reversed, they made a choice only true champions can do.
“Racing will remember Barbaro as undefeated on the track. His fans will remember him the same way in his last race against injury.”
