Issue date: 4/10/07 Section: News

Media Credit: Jefferson Wen am I?/Who? What? Where? Orthodox Barbarolgy pilgrims try to touch a miraculous shrine to the virgin horse during a procession celebrating his revelations in the Bulgarian capital of Sofia. Thousands of believers took part in the procession praying for good health. [Click to enlarge]

*This article appeared in the 2007 Joke Issue

Jesus Christ, move over - there's a new religion in town.

Barbaro, the recently euthanized Kentucky Derby winner that captured the hearts of an entire nation of middle-aged women, is still captivating avid followers from beyond the grave.

Trish Tomkins, 44, a housewife and self-described "Barbaro Maniac," from Ottumwa, Iowa, announced over the weekend her plans for a new religion starring Barbaro as the Messiah himself - Barbarology.

"Barbaro came to me in my sleep last night," Tomkins said. "And I don't mean in my dreams, because that would have been like every night. I mean that the horse actually came into my bedroom and chewed on my hair a little."

Tomkins went on to add that she "could actually smell the hay - and it was glorious."

Tomkins described their encounter as mostly neighing, snorting and heavy breathing, but added that "it was heavy breathing with a deeper meaning, you know?"

Since hearing the announcement, fellow Barbaro fans stricken with grief at the loss of their "friend" have flocked to Tomkins's house, eager to join the Barbarology sensation.

"I always knew there was something special about that horse," said Midge Carter, 53, of Madison, Wis. "That long, flowing mane, those strong, sturdy haunches, those…" Carter trailed off as she gazed toward the sky.

Others showed their religious devotion to the famous thoroughbred through unique artistic expression.

"I started growing my hair out in a mane once I heard he had been euthanized," said Starshine Moonsong, 57, of San Francisco. "I'm working on a tail, but that's a lot harder."

Continued...

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