Great Britain’s Oliver Townend and Cooley Master Class defended their title at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event. © Mackenzie Clark for Red Bay
British eventer Oliver Townend has announced his long-term ride Cooley Master Class will be retired after 13 years together.
In a statement via his social media, Oliver said it was a very emotional decision.
“We bought him as a 4 year old and he has for the last 13 years been a fantastic competition partner but moreover a very dear friend.
His competition highlights include back-to-back Kentucky 5* wins, 2nd at Maryland 5*, 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.
Cooley is a huge character and has always made sure to be a yard favourite, so he will retire to a hacking lifestyle where he’ll continue to be treated and looked after like the king he is.
I could not be more grateful to have had the honour of partnering Cooley for all these years.
He’s achieved more than we could have dreamt of and we’ve literally travelled the world together with memories that’ll last a lifetime! Huge thanks to Angela Hislop, who has co-owned him with me, and who’s just down the road from his retirement home to make sure he stays spoilt rotten!
Thanks for everything Cooley, and happy retirement!”
Equestrian Life wishes to congratulate Oliver and Cooley Master Class on a marvellous career together and all the best for his retirement.
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