LOUISVILLE, Ky., April 25 (UPI) -- Churchill Downs will honor Barbaro, last year's Kentucky Derby winner who was euthanized in January, at this year's Derby in Louisville, Ky.
Barbaro and his owners, Roy and Gretchen Jackson, will be honored May 5 in a ceremony that will include a video replay of the 2006 Kentucky Derby, and a tribute from local school children, Bloodhorse reported.
"Roy and Gretchen Jackson achieved racing's highest honor when their homebred, Barbaro, claimed the roses in last year's Kentucky Derby," Churchill Downs President Steve Sexton said. "While winning America's greatest race is an amazing feat, the Jacksons and their brave horse proved themselves true champions in the way they handled their greatest setback following the Preakness Stakes."
Barbaro injured his back leg at the start of the May 2006 Preakness and was euthanized months later after developing laminitis and other complications.
"Barbaro became America's horse because the Jacksons opened their hearts to racing fans around the nation who hoped and prayed that Barbaro would enjoy a full recovery," Sexton said. "Even when Barbaro's struggle came to an end, the Jacksons allowed his many followers to mourn with them."
