Jan. 29, 2007

In response to Monday’s announcement of the passing of Barbaro, Gulfstream Park President and General Manager Bill Murphy announced the establishment of the “Barbaro Foundation,” which will oversee an annual scholarship program for future veterinarians.

“The sacrifices of owners Roy and Gretchen Jackson, and the enormity of their colt’s contribution to the sport, and the courage of all involved, have been inestimable,” Mr. Murphy said. “The Barbaro story went beyond racing. It held us all in its grip for eight months. On behalf of Magna Entertainment Corp. and Chairman Frank Stronach, we at Gulfstream Park will proudly honor the people who tried so hard to create a better ending than the one we received.

“The entire Barbaro team – the Jacksons, trainer Michael Matz, jockey Edgar Prado, the veterinary staff and his fans throughout the world – deserve recognition after this experience.”

Barbaro suffered catastrophic injury in the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico May 22. Mr. Murphy, a long time executive with MEC, witnessed the injury up-close at the MEC track and was there to help put Barbaro on an ambulance.

Diagnosis showed the cannon, sesamoid and long pastern bones of his right rear leg were broken and the fetlock joint was dislocated. He was transported to the New Bolton Center, the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine, in Kennett Square, Pa.

Dr. Dean Richardson performed surgery and inserted 27 screws to stabilize the leg. The colt withstood infection and a bout with laminitis in his left hind leg before a recurrence of that disease sent the colt’s condition spiraling downward.

Last week the Jacksons, Richardson and New Bolton received a special Eclipse Award for their work and perseverance in trying to save Barbaro.

Mr. Murphy said details of the Barbaro Foundation and its scholarship program will be forthcoming.