The Barb /

The Barb (1863-1888) was an Australian bred Thoroughbred racehorse, famed for winning the 1866 Melbourne Cup, the Sydney Cup twice, and other quality races. He was bred by George Lee and foaled in 1863 at Leeholme, near Bathurst, New South Wales. The Barb was by Sir Hercules, his dam Fair Ellen (also known as Young Gulnare) was by Doctor (GB). He was a brother to Barbarian (sire of the Melbourne Cup winner, Zulu) and Barbelle (AJC Doncaster Handicap, VRC Flying Stakes [three times] and Sydney Cup). Sir Hercules (by Cap-a-Pie (GB)) was one of the best colonial sires, having sired 18 stakeswinners for 45 stakeswins including, Yattendon, Cossack and Zoe. The Barb was sold for 200 guineas as a yearling. He was owned and trained by Honest John Tait, who owned and trained three other Melbourne Cup winners: Glencoe, The Pearl and The Quack. The Barb proved to be highly strung and temperamental. At his first appearance he threw his rider and bolted and because of this side of his nature was known as the "Black Demon". As a spring three year old, The Barb won the sixth AJC Derby by two lengths at his first start from a spell. The Barb started favourite in the Melbourne Cup and went on to