Gerald Cooper, the much-loved farmhand from popular television documentary Clarkson’s Farm, is joining forces with Old Gold Racing to launch a racehorse syndicate to raise awareness and funds for Prostate Cancer UK.
The TV sensation received a heartfelt outpouring of support from fans after revealing his prostate cancer diagnosis on the show, and now enters the world of affordable racehorse ownership with bay gelding “The Mullet”, set to be trained in the Cotswolds by Charlie Longsdon, with whom there’s a family connection to Cooper.
The partnership between Old Gold Racing and Prostate Cancer UK will provide the charity with a substantial annual donation, set to be £28,500 if all 3,000 shares sell. At just £60 per share for a 14-month term, the new ownership opportunity will allow enthusiasts to experience the excitement of owning a racehorse without the steep costs usually associated with the sport. Shareholders will also have the option to donate any of The Mullet’s prize money earnings to the charity.
Gerald Cooper said: “It was a shock [speaking about his cancer diagnosis], but everyone has really supported me. The charity [Prostate Cancer UK] were great, I made it through and am now cancer-free.
“I wanted to do something [for a good cause] and I’ve known Charlie and Sophie [Longsdon] for years. I met the Old Gold people [Old Gold Racing, who set up the syndicate] because of Jeremy [Clarkson] and this felt like a good thing to do. I’m really excited about what’s ahead with The Mullet.”
Charlie Longsdon commented: “Having known Gerald a long time, it’s great to have him on board with our team! Sophie has known Gerald all her life as he used to work for her father, and so that’s the main reason why The Mullet has come about! The Mullet is a horse who’s eager to please at home and loves to learn. He has a great way of going and has an exciting future.
“Prostate cancer is a cause close to Gerald’s heart and it’s brilliant to be raising money for this great charity, while hopefully having a lot of fun along the way.”
Ed Seyfried, Chief Executive of Old Gold Racing, explains: “We are honoured to be powering Gerald’s horse racing syndicate. Everyone in every walk of life has had their life touched by cancer in one way or another, and so we’re proud to be partnering with Prostate Cancer UK to set up this syndicate.
“Fans of Clarkson’s Farm will know that Gerald is one of life’s great characters, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for The Mullet.”
With Clarkson’s guidance and inspiration, Gerald is diving into this new chapter, bringing his signature enthusiasm and charm along for the ride. Silks have been especially created to reflect the Prostate Cancer UK corporate colours – light blue body with black seams and contrasting sleeves with a white cap, with The Mullet set to hit the racecourse in the spring of next year.
The Mullet will be open for a reservation period from Tuesday 12th November, meaning prospective owners can reserve their shares today, with the public sale live from Thursday 21st November.
Join the waiting list for shares in The Mullet via the Old Gold Racing website today. Anyone who joins the waiting list will get early access to shares during the private sales period, starting November 19th. Join the waiting list here: http://www.oldgoldracing.com/horses/the-mullet