Barbaro’s story continues to inspire 20 years after his dominant Derby win

Each Kentucky Derby holds irreplaceable history of its own, but for many watching the race in the early 2000s, Derby 132 stands out among the rest. That memorable Run for the Roses led to more than just a remarkable victory for three-year-old Thoroughbred, Barbaro. It was also the pentacle of his short, yet successful career, and – unknown at the time – the beginning of his legacy focused on equine welfare.

Barbaro earned his place in the hearts of the nation with a dominating Derby win, pulling ahead by 6 ½ lengths. He was undefeated, impressive, and on the road to the Triple Crown when an injury in the Preakness Stakes took his story on a path no one expected.  

As much as crowds had cheered for Bararbo’s victory in the Kentucky Derby, they were now cheering with equal passion for his recovery. The injury to his right hind leg fueled a fight for healing. Barbaro’s battle garnered national media attention and highlighted equine care. Groups formed, spotlighting the welfare of racehorses. Fans across the country looked for regular updates on Barbaro. Cards and well-wishes came flooding in to his owners, the Jackson family.

 “You had so many people that adored him and were looking after him and cheering for him in his fight after the victory. I think that’s another reason why we still get questions about Barbaro,” said Chris Goodlett, Senior Director of Curatorial and Education at the Kentucky Derby Museum.

Goodlett said Barbaro’s jockey, Edgar Prado, is credited with realizing something was wrong in the Preakness and knowing what to do next.

“We’re reminded of how crucial it is that that jockey and horse communicate. They can’t use words, they can’t talk to each other, but the great horses and the great jockeys can really communicate with each other and know when things are good and know when things are off a little bit,” Goodlett explained.

While Barbaro’s surgery was successful, he was faced with resulting infections that ultimately led to his death in 2007. A memorial statue outside Churchill Downs honors Barbaro’s legacy. His ashes are buried beneath the memorial. He is the only horse buried on Churchill Downs’ property. After all, it was the site of his greatest racing victory. But just maybe, even more impressive than that 6 ½ length win, is that his name is still easily recognizable, his story is still shared, and his legacy is more than just being a great racehorse. Barbaro’s history isn’t complete without telling the impact of what happened after his racing career; the equine welfare that is still highlighted today.

The memorial statue remains a place fans and supporters come – 20 years after his Derby victory – to add flowers and take a moment to remember Barbaro. It’s often the first thing visitors see before walking into the Kentucky Derby Museum. Several of the cards, letters, and gifts the Jacksons’ received during Barbaro’s battle for health are on display at the museum. The Barbaro exhibit literally showcases the love and support that surrounded Barbaro in his fight. His legacy is one that continues to inspire, now two decades after this Derby win.