Alex Riddle of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky has provided an update on the condition of 2009 Horse of the Year, Rachel Alexandra, who was transferred to the hospital on Wednesday night after giving birth to a healthy filly the night before.

The mare underwent abdominal surgery for what was then described as a “bruised” wall of the intestinal tract.

Here is the veterinary report for today:

Rachel Alexandra’s condition remained serious at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital on Friday following surgery to repair a section of her small colon.

The attending veterinarians on her case, Dr. Bonnie Barr and Dr. Brett Woodie, are pleased with her progress, with Dr. Barr calling her a “strong mare”. Her vital signs remain normal and she was brighter, more alert and demonstrating an improved attitude on Friday afternoon.

“She looks better today,” said owner Barbara Banke. ” Rachel is a determined fighter. It makes me feel better that she was happy to have a mint. I want to thank all her fans for their incredible devotion to Rachel. Your thoughts mean so much right now.”

Rachel’s foal continues to do well. She has adjusted well to her nurse mare and enjoyed paddock turnout on Friday at Stonestreet.

Rachel Alexandra was admitted into Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital on Wednesday, February 13th, one day after delivering a 140-pound Bernardini filly. She underwent exploratory abdominal surgery to determine the cause of excess fluid in her abdominal cavity denoting an infection. A damaged section of her small colon was then repaired in a long and technically demanding procedure.

Thanks to Stonestreet Farm and Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital for their updates on Rachel Alexandra’s condition.