We call him Al.  He is a four year-old thoroughbred that was officially retired from racing October 2007 with a bone chip in his right knee.  Al was donated to Friends of Ferdinand in lieu of sending him to slaughter.  Al's injury will heal, with some TLC and stall rest, he will be riding sound.  However, he will be limited to pleasure riding and flatwork only. 

Update December 2007:  We've moved Al to a new foster home and he is just so much fun to have around the farm.  We go for daily hand walks, up past the creek and into the meadow.  He is moving quite nicely now.  He is just so cute - always into everything.  His favorite things - teenagers, unzipping zippers, pulling sweatshirt strings and pant legs, playing with the water hose, and being scratched! Thanks to the Fans of Barbaro, Al received two new halters and toys to keep him busy while he heals for Christmas!

Update:  Al received such a wonderful gift from Rood and Riddle Equine Center and the the Fans of Barbaro.  Beginning of April, he went to Lexington KY to have the chips removed from his knee.  He is currently on stall rest with light handwalking and easy time grazing. 

Update 5/23/08:  Al still has some heat and swelling on his knee, but he moves much better.  He is still on stall rest and he gets limited turnout to graze and be a horse for about an hour 3-4 times a week.