Celestial City: A Steady Light at Second Chances Lowell
Celestial City arrived at the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation with the résumé of a true professional and the heart of a barn favorite. Foaled March 1, 2019, the bay Kentucky-bred gelding is by Uncle Mo out of Lunar Evening (by Malibu Moon). On the racetrack, he made 10 starts, earning $348,420.
A New Home & A New Role
Today, Celestial City lives at TRF’s Second Chances Farm at Lowell Correctional Institution. If you spend five minutes with him, you’ll discover his trademarks: gentle eyes, a steady stride, and an enthusiastic love for treats.
For the women in our program, Celestial is both teacher and healer. Through daily care, grooming, handling, groundwork, leading, and basic horsemanship, participants learn patience, communication, and trust. Celestial meets them where they are, offering calm feedback and the kind of quiet confidence only a seasoned Thoroughbred can provide. As with all TRF Second Chances horses, the transformation flows in both directions; while Celestial gains the comfort and consistency of dignified lifetime care, the women gain new skills, a sense of responsibility, and a living example of resilience.
Why His Story Matters
Every TRF horse carries a story that ripples beyond the barn aisle. Celestial City’s path, from the speed and spotlight of the track to the thoughtful rhythm of a teaching role, perfectly illustrates the power of Second Chances. He didn’t just retire; he re-purposed. And in doing so, he helps people re-imagine what’s possible for themselves, too.
Celestial City was responsibly retired to the TRF on 4/23/23 and will remain in our care for the rest of his life. Your support ensures that his veterinary care, nutrition, and farrier work are covered, and it sustains the TRF Second Chances curriculum, which changes lives, both equine and human.