It was Forrest Gump’s mama who said: “Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”
More important than the hands you are dealt in life, is how you play them. Noble Central School student Colt Cunningham is one of those who is definitely all-in despite the challenges he’s faced to date.
Colt, who was born with a congenital heart disease, recently had his wish come true at famed Santa Anita Park in Los Angeles County. A groom for his horse-training father Randy, Colt asked The Children’s Wish Foundation in Canada to visit the 2016 Breeders’ Cup Classic.
Not only was he treated royally, an interview with him trackside was broadcast on the big screen for several minutes and for some 80,000 horse racing fans to see.
Noble Central School Principal Greg Rollingson was on hand and couldn’t have been happier for the Grade 12 student, who he says is a great story teller and always quick with a smile.
“He's faced some challenges that most of us never will, so when we have an opportunity to reward someone who's been through a lot, it's important that we give that recognition, and learn to stay positive in the face of challenges,” says Rollingson.
Rollingson and Colt had an instant connection when he became principal at Palliser’s school in Nobleford. Not only had Colt been a student earlier at Coalhurst High School, where Rollingson’s father was principal, they shared a common interest.
“When things get busy or stressful, I can always count on a story from Colt, or a good chat about our shared love for the horse racing industry,” he said of the 18-year-old. “I hope nothing but the best for him.”
Julie June Stewart wrote a great piece about Colt and his dream come true in America’s Best Racing, which is a multimedia platform created by The Jockey Club to increase the profile of thoroughbred racing.
To read her piece, go to https://www.americasbestracing.net/lifestyle/2016-breeders-cup-dream-come-true-colt-cunningham
Since 1984 the Children’s Wish Foundation in Canada has granted nearly 25,000 wishes to children diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. For more information on the worthy organization, go to http://www.childrenswish.ca
Colt Cunningham Dream Come True Photos
