Fixing a broken leg on a horse - it's not just a matter of science being able to figure out how to do it. The legs of a horse have a very complicated vascular system and although "miracles" can be done with today's surgical technology, getting all those blood vessels connected and working again is the main problem. Additionally, a horse has to be able to bear weight on all four of his legs or problems can develop in the other legs if they have to carry more than their share of the horse's body weight. That's what ultimately did in the poor colt.

Dr Richardson and Barbaro's owners deserve kudos for both giving the horse every possible chance and Dr Richardson especially for being open and honest with the media and keeping the public informed of Barbaro's condition. He said until the end that Barbaro was a very smart and cooperative patient.

Ironically, despite the fact that Barbaro won the 2006 Kentucky Derby, he technically was not a Champion as Bernardini was voted top 3 year old and Invasor Horse of the Year.

However to those of us who love the Sport of Kings he will forever be remembered for his dominating Kentucky Derby victory and indomitable spirit as he recovered from surgery.

Those are qualities of a Champion by any definition.