Twelve-year-old Cool Selection hit the Triacta when three organizations in two countries got together to ensure he enjoys the dignified retirement he deserves after a successful career which saw him earn $705,000 at the track. The Oklahoma Retirement Program, The Exceller Fund and Ontario’s LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society have united to create “The Cool Project” in order to raise funding for Cool Selection’s future care.
Campaigned by his breeders, the Bruno brothers, in Ontario, Cool Selection accounted for 18 wins, a couple of stakes placings and $690,000 prior to being claimed by trainer Steve Asmussen in the fall of 2008 at age 9. Shipped to the U.S. after the Woodbine season, Cool Selection started a number of times in the Southwest before finally winning a couple of races at the $4,000 claiming level and being haltered by trainer Terry Brennan in November, 2009. He made one more start for $5,000 claiming at Oaklawn in January, 2010, and was beaten 14 lengths.
Fortunately for the veteran campaigner, members of the Oklahoma Retirement Program kept an eye on him and, when he was finally ready to retire, they contacted LongRun. The triad of retirement organizations determined that Cool Selection, for reasons of space and economics, should remain at the facility in Oklahoma but be supported financially by LongRun until a permanent situation is found for him. He has already bonded with buddy Donzie and is happily adjusting to his new life.
So, if you would like to be a part of this “Cool Project”, send your donation to The Oklahoma Thoroughbred Retirement Program, The Exceller Fund or LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society and help a really cool horse!
