[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 31 (Saturday, February 17, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E388]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           TRIBUTE TO BARBARO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ED WHITFIELD

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 16, 2007

  Mr. WHITFIELD. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize horse racing's most 
inspirational figure, Barbaro. In his short-lived life, Barbaro quickly 
became one of the sport's most respected and beloved champions. Foaled 
on April 29, 2003, this American thoroughbred racehorse warmed his way 
into the hearts of many Americans with his success on the track and his 
courage through injury.
  Barbaro knew nothing but success in his racing career, winning his 
first six races and earning winnings of over $2 million. Yet despite 
his undefeated record through his first five starts, his achievements 
went largely unnoticed until May 6, 2006. On that day, his victory at 
the Kentucky Derby earned him the respect of horse racing fans 
nationwide. Barbaro entered the race with odds of 6 to 1. After 
stumbling at the start, Barbaro moved easily to the front when the 
leading horses tired at the five-sixteenths pole and he glided through 
the stretch to win in a fast time of 2 minutes, 1.36 seconds. Barbaro's 
final quarter-mile run of 24 and one fifth seconds was the fastest 
since Secretariat's in 1973, and his victory margin of 6\1/2\ lengths 
was the longest since Triple Crown winner Assault won the Derby by 
eight in 1946. As the crowd celebrated and looked on the horse with 
amazement, jockey Edgar Prado rode Barbaro into the winner's circle, 
pumping his fists at 108,065 cheering fans, the second largest crowd in 
Derby history.
  A new hero had been born as Barbaro became just the sixth undefeated 
winner in the Derby's 132 year history. His impressive performance 
under the Twin Spires at Churchill Downs inspired diehard racing fans 
and casual observers alike. Heading into The Preakness as the heavy 
favorite, Barbaro was thought by many to have the best chance of 
becoming the first Triple Crown winner since 1978.
  As fate would have it, Barbaro was unable to finish the race due to 
what would become a fatal injury. Barbaro shocked spectators by 
breaking through the starting gate just before the race began. After 
being reloaded, he tore away from the gate, determined not to let his 
previous jumpstart stand in the way of victory. But just seconds into 
the race, Barbaro broke down in his right hind leg and was prudently 
pulled up by Prado. Barbaro fans would soon learn that he had fractured 
three bones in and around the ankle of his right hind leg, making it 
impossible for him to race ever again.
  Nevertheless, Barbaro's terrifying breakdown on national television 
would not be his legacy. Instead, the story of this great horse became 
a tale of unyielding love and determination that captured the attention 
of millions across the country. The unprecedented level of care and 
advanced medical treatment offered by Barbaro's owners, Roy and 
Gretchen Jackson, and his medical team were displayed on network news 
shows and national magazines. Get-well cards and letters from around 
the world were sent to him throughout his struggle to recover.
  Despite receiving the best possible care and an outpouring of public 
affection, Barbaro's eight month battle for life was characterized by 
significant progress followed by substantial setbacks. On January 29, 
2007, Roy and Gretchen Jackson came to the conclusion with Barbaro's 
veterinarian, Dr. Dean W. Richardson, that Barbaro was in too much pain 
and that it was no longer possible for Barbaro to make the miracle 
recovery everyone was hoping for.
  Barbaro's fight for life demonstrated unique courage and remarkable 
spirit that captured the hearts of America. Millions of people embraced 
this amazing racehorse, followed his struggle, and waited for his 
miracle recovery. We all hoped and prayed for a happy ending to this 
fairy tale story but there would be no such ending.
  Barbaro's story is one of great perseverance and great integrity that 
was shown day in and day out by him, his owners, and his caregivers. 
Barbaro proved that greatness is not only achieved on the racetrack but 
through a willingness and determination to overcome all obstacles life 
may present. This son of Dynaformer out of Carson City mare La Ville 
Rouge gave us a lifetime of memories to be proud of, and he will be 
remembered in the annals of horse racing for all of history.

                          ____________________