Rachel Alexandra, the 2009 Horse of the Year who foaled a Bernardini filly Feb. 12, is in serious condition after undergoing surgery Feb. 13, according to owner Barbara Banke. The surgery was performed at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, in Lexington, Ky., to repair a bruised area in her small colon that was injured during foaling.

"We are solely focused on making sure Rachel is as comfortable as possible," Banke said. "She is showing the same strength and courage now that she demonstrated on the track. Our hearts are broken by this turn of events and I can only ask that you send your thoughts and prayers to Rachel now."

Veterinarians could not determine a full prognosis for Rachel Alexandra at this time.

Rachel Alexandra’s filly, who weighed 140 pounds at birth, is healthy and has returned to Banke’s Stonestreet Farm where she will be placed on a nurse mare