Since its inception in 2007, The Fund disbursed almost $400,000 in support of scientific conferences, research programs and a half-dozen research projects, all focused on finding a cure for laminitis, the painful and often fatal hoof disease that plagued Barbaro for so much of his recuperative period following his injury in the Preakness Stakes. Dr. Richardson provided surgical treatment and other veterinary care for Barbaro at the New Bolton Center following his injury in the 2006 Preakness Stakes.
The Barbaro Fund for Equine Health and Safety Research will now replace the NTRA Charities - Barbaro Memorial Fund and become the primary fundraising arm of the NTRA Safety and Integrity Alliance for equine health and safety research. Pfizer Animal Health also hosted a jockey autograph session at Belmont Park to benefit the Barbaro Fund for Equine Health and Safety Research and the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. Pfizer Animal Health also made a special donation to the Barbaro Fund for Equine Health and Safety Research to kick off the event on Mother Goose Stakes day at Belmont.
NTRA CEO Alex Waldrop said, "The NTRA Safety and Integrity Alliance is proud to be a part of Barbaro's enduring legacy on behalf of all Thoroughbreds. We especially appreciate the support of Roy and Gretchen Jackson in the creation of this new fund. We also thank Belmont Park and the Belmont jockey colony for making this day possible."
