The retirement of two-time Kentucky 5-star winner Cooley Master Class has been announced by his rider, Oliver Townend of Great Britain.
Cooley Master Class being saluted by the crowd after his 2019 Land Rover Kentucky victory. (Photo © 2019 by Nancy Jaffer)
The horse he got as a four-year-old has been his competition partner for the last 13 years and also “a very dear friend.”
His competition highlights include back-to-back Kentucky 5-star wins in 2018 and 2019, second at the new Maryland 5-star last fall, team silver at the European Championships and 16 international top 10 placings.
“He’s now 17 years old and although still fit and well, we’ve always said it’s important that he retires from competition on his own terms and we feel that the time has come,” stated Oliver.
“Cooley is a huge character and has always made sure to be a yard favorite, so he will retire to a hacking lifestyle where he’ll continue to be treated and looked after like the king he is.”
Added Oliver, “I could not be more grateful to have had the honor of partnering Cooley for all these years. He’s achieved more than we could have dreamed of and we’ve literally traveled the world together with memories that’ll last a lifetime!”
He offered “huge thanks” to co-owner Angela Hislop, who lives near the star’s retirement home and will make sure he stays “spoiled rotten!”