Scholarship Started in Barbaro’s Name

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – A Florida race track is honoring Barbaro by establishing a scholarship in his name.

Officials say the award will be worth at least $20,000 and will go to high school students planning to study veterinary medicine at the University of Florida.

Last year’s Kentucky Derby winner yesterday lost his fight to survive a serious injury.

The horse had strong ties to the Sunshine State and a large fan base, Gulfstream Park spokesman Mike Mullaney said. Barbaro, who was euthanized Monday after complications from his gruesome breakdown at last year’s Preakness, secured his Derby spot after winning the $1 million Florida Derby at Gulfstream.

"The sacrifices of owners Roy and Gretchen Jackson, and the enormity of their colt’s contribution to the sport, and the courage of all involved, have been inestimable," Gulfstream Park president Bill Murphy said. "The Barbaro story went beyond racing. It held us all in its grip for eight months."