Sad news from the University of Pennsylvania: School of Veterinary Medicine where Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro was euthanized this morning.

Barbaro, a true professional, adapted to challenges in his recovery that would have beaten a lesser equine with the same grace he showed in the stretch at Churchill Downs back in May. It seemed that he would win the race to recovery until just days ago, when more complications set in.

Barbaro's owners, the Jacksons, trainer Michael Matz, jockey Edgar Prado and the remarkable medical team at the New Bolton Center, lead by Dr. Dean Richardson all did their best to save Barbaro so that he could live a happy and healthy life. They should be commended for doing everything possible to save Barbaro, and for ultimately doing what was best for him by allowing him to leave us with dignity when it became apparent that the pain-free life they wished for him was not to be.