The Loss of a Thoroughbred

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

JoyJackson21 — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 03:30:50 GMT

Re-reading Invisible Ink's story brings back so many memories for me of this lovely, courageous son of Thunder Gulch. Inky grabbed a hammerlock on my heart the very first time I heard his story, told every eloquently and emotionally by his owner, John Fort. I rooted for him to win the Kentucky Derby, and had boxed him in the exacta with Monarchos, and had placed $20 tickets on Inky to win, place and show. That's how much I believed in him. I knew he couldn't have fought so hard to live for nothing. Some wonderful destiny had to have been planned down the road for him, I was sure of it.

When I saw Invisible Ink streaking up the track after the blazing Monarchos, I was so happy. I screamed and screamed for Inky to hurry up and make it to the wire because he still had a chance to win the race. Inky did not lose that Derby by very much. He gave it everything he had in him and just missed winning the race by a short distance. If Monarchos ran the second fastest Derby in the history of the race after Secretariat, that also meant that Invisible Ink ran the third fastest Derby, because Inky was a very close second in that race. I think Inky's half brother, Point Given, was in that Kentucky Derby too, if I'm not mistaken. Inky outran Point Given, the eventual 2001 Eclipse Horse of the Year winner that year.

I was so proud of Inky. It was the race of his life. Invisible Ink had saved the greatest performance of his life for the greatest race of them all - the Kentucky Derby.

As I write this, I smile with love and great fondness for Invisible Ink. I miss him, and I am thankful Mr. Fort chose to have Invisible Ink buried where his fans can always go and pay tribute to him. Inky still has many fans out there, including me.

Rest in peace, Inky. You made a wonderful impact in your short life. You were loved and you are missed.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Lori M. — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 17:59:13 GMT

Thank you, Steve, for another provocative story- but a sad one this time for sure.

I am so touched by the love Mr. Fort had for his horse. Your blank nameplate suggestion was so perfect, and Fort's taking you up on it was so sporting and fun.

My husband and I both love Monarchos, and visit him often. One of the very first Thoroughbreds I ever saw was Monarchos- standing under a golden-leafed tree, just like a dappled statue, at Claiborne.

Now we will have your story - of the heart of the horse who came in second - Invisible Ink, who was truly all heart.

And what a handsome individual he was! This link is from the Ky Horse Park's press release of Sept. 12th- Inky walking - what grace he had:

www.youtube.com/watch.

Here is the link to the press release- there is going to be a memorial service there for Inky open to the public: the Forts show much we really can love our animals.

view.exacttarget.com

Thank you to Needler in VA for reminding me that Inky and his connections are threaded thru Mr. Squires book! And thank you to Holy Bull Fan for mentioning that awesome banner a plane was pulling across the sky saying "Go Inky!" before the Blue Grass S. OMG Mr. Fort adored his horse.

And they say that real men don't cry. Guffaawwww- Fort is a REAL man- who loved w all HIS heart, so much so as to bring Inky back, w the steadfast vets, from almost graveside - ohhh incredible, incredible tenacity and care! RIP Inky. I will look for you at the KY Horse Park in November. Even more love Mr. Fort had for Inky - made sure he was buried with honor and distinction at a place where his fans could visit and tell their racing tales to him. May God bless Mr. Fort and all the owners like him...he is a credit to the sport, and to animal lovers everywhere.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

susan in tn — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 23:35:33 GMT

I am so sorry, Mr. Fort, for your loss.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Cris — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 11:47:09 GMT

Whatever brings his owner the most comfort is what he should do. If he is still raising "inks" the story is not yet complete. There may be more comfort knowing he is just outside rather than hundreds of miles away. There are no words to say that will make Mr. Fort feel better. Perhaps just comfort in knowing so many care.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

greatbigbubby — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 20:09:05 GMT

it's always a very hurtful thing when a horse passes on, wether it's your child's pony, the neighbor's faithful companion or a million dollar thoroughbred. horses have a special place in our hearts.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Woodland Dash — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 06:21:15 GMT

I bred my mare, Ashton Ridge by Pentelicus, to Invisible Ink during his first year at stud and had a wonderful colt named Legends Echo. So much like his father that we also nicknamed him Inky. So much potential from that breeding but unfortunately injuries from a bad trainer resulted. He could have followed in his father's footsteps to the Derby. I loved Invisible Ink from the first day we saw him. He was all personality and then some. RIP my favorite one. You live on in Legends Echo.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Slew — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 14:47:57 GMT

Still here, Linda...but since I don't have to shovel the sunshine, I'm out enjoying it.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

bellesforever — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 16:41:26 GMT

Thank you for the loving tribute..we all want to hear these heart warming stories..it is awesome to hear about people who do care about their horses so much..so sorry for their loss but so happy that this horse had a band of folks that cared so much for him.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Alex'sBigFan — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 03:21:14 GMT

Linda in Texas,

I'm still here don't worry. I went over to Jason's Guest Blogs this week. There are 2 good articles from Gun Bow and Keelerman. So I've been immersed in the one about the decline in California racing.

I will be seeing this Rattlesnake Bridge because I just read he's entered in the Haskell against Shack and ROI!!!!! Cool! And remember I mentioned a JJ's Lucky Train way back at the beginning of the TC, he's in the Haskell too.

And the girls run tomorrow at Delaware Blind Luck and Havre de Grace, should be a thriller.

Hope Mr. Fort is feeling better at this time.

Where's Steve? He must be cooking up a good article for us..............................

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Barbara W — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 18:34:15 GMT

RIP, beautiful boy. Mr. Fort, Our hearts are broken for you and with you. I am so thankful he was so well-cared for by you and your team.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Linda in Texas — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 17:41:12 GMT

Where is everybody. I am having

withdrawals! :(

Hellllllo

Helllllllllllo

Anybody home??????

Steve Haskin, Slew, Dr. D.. Deacon,

Alex'sBigFan, Zookeeper (seeing your name on Marquis's re:movie), Paula Higgins, Needler in Virginia, Mary in Vermont, sweet Oldie, Fran Loszynski, et al????

And cannot forget Zen's Auntie,(how about Rattlesnake Bridge and Irrefutable, both grays doing well)?

Is everyone on a summer sabbatical except me??

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Susan from VA — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 17:35:18 GMT

Just when I am starting to get bored with the Bloodhorse website, you come up with an article like this! Condolences to Mr. Fort.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Danette — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 17:40:20 GMT

Thank you Steve for a very moving and heartfelt story. My condolances to Mr. Fort on the loss of his most precious friend. Invisible Ink left a most visible mark on those who loved him as well as the many fans who remember him dearly. Rest in peace Invisible Ink.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Slew — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 13:25:04 GMT

Nothing speaks more strongly to the champion and the hero than the words, "I survived!" It's a halo for Invisible Ink, and wings for the love of Mr. Fort. There are no adequate words to explain the empty spaces left by the loss of a loved one. Perhaps it's in how we persevere afterwards that defines us...but it's never easy. I wish Mr. Fort joyful memories, and satisfaction with love well spent. I wish Inky green pastures...forever.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Sue MacGray — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 01:38:02 GMT

Steve, what a wonderful, moving story about Invisible Ink and his owner. I haven't owned horses (yet), but I know from my own experience with my cat (the best pet ever) Columbus how close we get to our animal friends. My heart goes out to Mr. Fort for the tragic and early loss of his Invisible Ink. He definitely must keep him close by somehow I think, where he can visit him now and again.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Paula Higgins — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 00:55:16 GMT

JK I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved pets. You are right the pain is excruciating. They are truly family.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Paula Higgins — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 00:49:56 GMT

I am heartbroken for Mr. Fort over the loss of his beloved Inky. I am sure he is beside himself. What a wonderful horse he was Steve. Thank you for this story. I had no idea he was so sick. It is amazing they were able to save him and he went on to place 2nd in the Derby. I think it is a testament to what a wonderful person Mr. Fort is that he was thrilled with 2nd place. I would have been too. A true sportsman. My dog Ralph's nickname is "Inky" so this really hits home. What a moving tribute to his amazing horse Steve. P.S. I started sending my donations this week to Old Friends for Noor.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Holy Bull Fan — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 22:13:11 GMT

I was so sorry to read the news about Inky. We saw him race in the Bluegrass (shortly before which a plane flew over with a banner reading "Go Inky." We rooted for him in the Kentucky Derby, too, during one of the few years we've had Derby parties. He was a favorite among our partygoers.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Needler in Virginia — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 14:48:26 GMT

If reading Steve's column today left ANY doubt about how Mr Fort feels about his equine friends, read Jim Squire's book (he bred Monarchos) called Horse of a Different Color. Mr Fort and his horses are a continuing thread through the entire book, and his devotion and love for them shines through as very real and not at all foolish. Since Inky and Monarchos will forever be linked by that amazing Derby, you'll love the read.

Mr Fort, our hearts hurt with yours. Take him home to South Carolina; he truly was special.

Cheers and safe trips.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Linda in Texas — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 05:35:21 GMT

Oh thanks a million Alex'sBigFan, i go on Zenyatta's website but haven't in a couple of weeks. i wondered if Pirate Queen had had her foal and how she was. i will go there right now.

And the photo of Paddy O'Prado on bloodhorse.com today is one of my favorite photos.Just look at his face with that great big serving of

determination written all over it. Would love to hug his neck and give him a couple of love pats.

I download every single photo of every horse and write why it is being featured. Someday my son will come across them and wonder what in the world was his mama doing with so many pictures. He knows i am nuts for all animals and the bigger they are the bigger fool i am. It has rubbed off on him too.

And aren't we all crazy about them. I know from the super folks who post here they are no different. And my heart hurt to know that Mr. Fort was so upset Steve could not understand what he was saying. God Bless him and Inky.

Sounds like when my father lost his Champion Chesapeake Retriever which he had acquired from some people who abused the dog. They were inseparable. Sloe Gin Fizz was his name. I have his trophies

and Blue Ribbons from field trials.

He lived to be 13.

Thank you Steve. Have a great week end everyone and don't forget to watch the races on Saturday, i guess i should say today. It is 12:30 am cst. Saturday!

And good luck to Zookeeper for

*****R U N F L A T O U T*****

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Delrene — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 04:33:35 GMT

I learned of Invisible Ink after reading the story of Monarchos written by Mr. Squire. I have watched that video of the 2001 Kentucky Derby endless times. Invisible Ink was such a courageous horse. Heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Fort and all those who were close to this incredible horse. Thank you for your article and learning more about Inky's background.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Alex'sBigFan — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 03:58:08 GMT

Linda in Texas,

Speaking of your beloved grays (Pirate Queen), check out Zenyatta's website. ESPN is doing a piece on Zen this Saturday to be shown during the Hollywood Gold Cup and Zenyatta is stopping over by your Pirate Queen to tell her the news! Photo of it on Zenyatta's website! Too cute!

At least that helped me with the tears about Inky.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Mike Relva — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 03:32:25 GMT

Extremely sorry to hear of Invisible Ink's passing. Mr. Fort my thoughts are with you.

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Alex'sBigFan — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 00:54:43 GMT

What an amazing story Steve, thanks for writing it. What a tremendous will to live Inky had and the dedication of John Fort and the vets is unparalleled. Mr. Fort is everything an owner should be and my heart goes out to him on the loss of his Inky. Those of us that have that unique, special bond with animals know all too well the depth of his pain. Mr. Fort gave Inky back his quality of life and for that he should be so proud. I can't imagine what Mr. Fort went through during that time of Inky's illness, Inky not eating yet swollen from the edema and the raw insides, absolutely horrible. It was very interesting about the buttermilk, I know in humans that plain yogurt has the cultures to put back some natural bacteria in the body. For Inky to have run in the 2001 Derby was truly a miracle and I must go find a video and watch it again. And Steve the idea you had to not put his name "Invisible Ink" on his halter was priceless. There is nothing anyone of us could say that would console Mr. Fort but he should be so proud of all that he is and stands for and has done for his horses. I just love Plum Pretty, she was my Oaks pick. Best of luck to Mr. Fort with her and Flashpoint. Don't worry Mr. Fort your Inky runs free in heaven now and is probably having a conversation with Secretariat right about now saying, "Hey buddy, I ran just about as fast as you did!"

re: The Loss of a Thoroughbred

Runfast159 — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 20:20:01 GMT

I know that I have read about Invisible Ink before. His story touched me as much today as it did years ago.

It is just as much of a story about the love and dedication of John Fort. I'm always encouraged when I hear about people like him. Someone that loves his horses like that can be nothing but good for the sport.

Godspeed Invisible Ink, and condolences to Mr Fort on his loss.