2006 Preakness Bernardini Wins Barbaros Career Over

May 20 dawned with beautiful weather for the running of the second jewel in the Triple Crown. The track was fast and the horses and jockeys were ready for a great race. Long thin legs below strongly muscled bodies awaited the opening of the gates with excited jockeys mounted. The air was charged with excitement. Barbaro, winner of the Kentucky Derby, was far and away the favorite in betting at Pimlico Race Course, leaving the gate as the 1-2 favorite.

Thirty paces later, jockey Edgar Prado realize something was seriously wrong, and pulled Barbaro to a stop as quickly and safely as possible. One wrong step had ended this amazing and beautiful steed's racing career. Later tests revealed three broken bones in the thoroughbred's right rear ankle, resulting in major surgery that will end any future racing possibilities for Barbaro. This represents a true tragedy to the racing world because this horse appeared to be on his way as a true contender for the three jewels this year.

The remaining horses continued around the turn, and Bernardini, at 13-1 with jockey Javier Castellano aboard, overtook the lead in the stretch to win by over 5 lengths. Sweetnorthernsaint, at 8-1, came in second while Hemingway's Key, at 29-1, showed at third. Brother Derek placed fourth, probably because his jockey had to slow him when Barbaro's leg gave way.

Bernardini was trained by Tom Albertrani and owned by the Sheik of Dubai. This represents the first Triple Crown win for both the trainer and jockey.

As the world held a collective breath, Barbaro was taken away by an equine ambulance to the stable area. Hoards of reports followed, seeking any information about the horse's well-being, but were blocked by security as the horse was radiographed to learn the extent of his injuries. He was immediately sedated and results revealed three separate bones were broken, virtually representing a shattered joint.

Later surgery was performed, implanting a steel plate and 22 metal screws into the joint. The response from the public was amazing with flowers and prayers from around the world arriving to express sympathy and love. While the surgery was successful, it is still unclear how well Barbaro will recover because the six-week recovery period could result in infection or further joint breakdown as the horse is suspended in a pool of water to keep his weight off the recovering ankle. Hopes are that Barbaro will recover and sire winners for the future.