Derby winner progressing on road to recovery

Tuesday, December 12th 2006, 2:21 pm

By: News On 6

KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. (AP) Barbaro continues gaining strength in his right hind leg since having his cast removed last month, another encouraging sign for the Kentucky Derby winner.

Nearly seven months into his stay at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center, Barbaro's veterinarians said Tuesday the colt continues to recover gradually.

"Barbaro will need a special shoe on his right hind foot that will provide extra support for at least the next several months," said Dean Richardson, chief surgeon at the New Bolton Center.

Barbaro will likely have his right hind shoe changed within the next day or two.

Barbaro's laminitis-stricken left hind foot also continues to improve.

"The left hind foot is progressing slowly although his comfort on that foot remains acceptable," Richardson said. "Most importantly, Barbaro's overall condition is continuing to improve and he weighs more now than at any time during his hospitalization."