In Memoriam

This is the day, January 29, when three years ago, we lost Barbaro to complications of laminitis. It is a day when many Fans of Barbaro stop, pause and reflect on their journeys with and without this special horse, who inspired and continues to inspire so many to act on behalf of horses everywhere. It is a bittersweet day, as always.

This year, however, is perhaps a little less sad due, in part, to the promise that the racing careers of Nicanor and Lentenor represent. Lentenor, in particular, seems to have caught the eyes of the racing press who are still talking about his maiden race.

Jeremy Plonk, over at ESPN.com has made him the Number 6 pick for the Kentucky Derby, noting that he was "phenomenal in his turf return at 1-1/16 miles" and that he, the not often effusive journalist, "is giddy about Lentenor off this race." High and significant praise indeed coming from one who admitted that he wasn't part of "the heart-felt hype" prior to this performance.

Nicanor should be making his return to the turn in the Spring, another reason to look forward, not back.

No one will ever forget Barbaro. That much is certain. He touched a chord in the minds of the general public that is a throwback to the racing heroes of old and his valiant career, both before and after his injury inspired so many to do so much good.

But in his soul, Barbaro was a race horse. And for his brothers to become similar athletes is more than fitting. It is, in many ways, one of his greatest legacies.