Editor’s note: Below are some updates on Lentenor and La Ville Rouge. I hope they clarify any confusion or concern. Keep in mind that those caring for members of Barbaro’s family are kindly taking time out of their busy schedules to provide information to the public. We should all be appreciative of their willingness to let us have a glimpse inside their world and respect the pace at which they choose to share information.
From Jill Stephens of Stephens Thoroughbreds:
Lentenor is training nicely. He has started some faster paced gallops now, 18 second eighths. He is just about ready for an actual breeze. He stands in the gates patiently and then jogs away.
His routine is pretty much the same. He still gets to go outside, but not as long as he used to, and he doesn't go out with a buddy anymore. He is very independent and doesn't seem to mind having a paddock to himself. He also has a groom everyday at this point that provides daily brushing and leg care.
Not one particular thing has changed about Lentenor. He is going through sort of a steady, across the board maturation process. His mass has increased noticeably to me, it makes him look big.
He is 15 and 3.5 hands. I was a little surprised because he appears even taller than this. His neck goes steadily upward from the withers, and with his mass he has a big presence. He is a very comfortable horse to ride as his body feels so solid and comfortable.
I do not know when he will leave. He is a pleasure to train and care for, and he is going to take time given the family growth pattern---so no hurry.
I would like to add that he continues to be a very kind horse. A lot of the colts change a bit when they get to this age and stage of conditioning. Even when he feels great, he has a kind eye and a gentle demeanor.
From Headley Bell of Mill Ridge Farm:
La Ville Rouge foaled a big colt nearly three weeks ago without event except he had a few cracked ribs, which is not unusual considering his size.
As a result, we kept him in a stall and subsequently he developed a fever which turned out to be an infected umbilicus. We are treating him for this infection and are hopeful he will heal soon.
La Ville Rouge is doing well and caring for her foal. Once he heals, we look forward to sharing photos with the public.
