Ashes to Ashes...

Word is out that the Roy and Gretchen Jackson, Barbaro's owners, are nearing a decision about the final resting place of their Kentucky Derby winner, Barbaro. Since the horse was euthanized and subsequently cremated, his remains have resided in the Jackson's hall closet in a very large and heavy cardboard box.

Many places have been vying to be Barbaro's burial site, including the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY and the Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville, Kentucky. There was also talk of a racing museum in Pennsylvania, but that, according to the Jacksons, has been shelved.

The burial of an actual horse carcass is a literal big deal. It requires a back hoe and a very large hole. Ruffian was buried in the infield at Belmont Park near the finish line where she tragically broke down in her match race. Man O War, whose funeral was a semi-national event over 2000 people attended, was originally buried at owner August Belmont's farm in Lexington and then re-interred at the Kentucky Horse Park 20 years later under a statue erected in his honor.

The Jacksons have promised a similar statue and in fact they are now deciding on the artist. When they have reached their final decision, they will announce where the statue and Barbaro's grave will reside.

My guess is the Kentucky Horse Park, a wonderful facility in Lexington where many older racehorses are retired and visited by their fans. The late John Henry spent his later years there. Wherever they choose, it is certain that there will be many fans who make a visit to his grave.

It is interesting that this story appeared in many national newspapers as well as industry publications. As we approach the one year anniversary of Barbaro's death, the story is very much alive.