The grooms! They work to keep the horses looking perfect. When I watched the slow motion relays, of the live streaming Olympic Dressage ,I was amazed at the beautifully clipped legs of the horses and their shining hooves. And those beautiful tails! But the immaculate turn out is not all they do. They know their horses so well and respect every aspect of their horses’ personalities. They are the security blanket for many horses that would otherwise be nervous at a competition like the Olympics or having to be on a plane flying across the world.
The riders are very appreciative of the work their grooms put in. Here are quotes from Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester.
I saw this picture and it really made me a little emotional. Alan, thank you for everything you do; you are such an anchor for the team and the horses completely adore you. I’ve said it before but we would be nowhere with the hard work, patience and commitment of our grooms. The horses and our careers are such a big part of their lives and Alan rides every test with us; he carries the pressures, the highs and the lows with us. Our medals are yours also
Charlotte Dujardin
My word did this beautiful horse step up for me big time in that Freestyle. Beyond proud of him! A big thank you to Lucy for all your efforts in taking care of him at these Games and for the many years she has looked after him. He’s a sensitive soul and she has held his hand (hoof) every step of the way.
Carl Hester
The grooms make all the difference at a major championship like the Olympics. There is so much pressure on the riders and they must have confidence that their grooms are looking after the horses. These grooms know their horses and can look after them with that knowledge. They are worth their weight in gold!!
I feel like Charlotte in particular does a great job of shining the spotlight on the wonderful Alan. A good groom is a huge blessing!
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Yes she does and Alan is such a lovely person. I did an interview with him a few years ago and he is so devoted to the horses and loves his job.
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The professional grooms are their weight in gold, literally, when the venue is the biggest stage, or on a show tour. They think of the minor details that horse’s rider might forget if they were grooming. They are the ones with all the certifications, with something extra like an equine veterinary tech certificate in the portfolio. The best ones, they are just as good as the riders they work for when it comes to riding. 🐎🐎🐎
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Agreed!!
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The horses all look so placid – they seem comfortable with the whole thing.
Wow at En Vogue standing there like a magnificent statue! The grooms do indeed do a good job.
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The do a good job. The horses trust them and these grooms are the people who spend the most time with the horses. The riders , being professionals, have other horses they have to ride and may not be able to spend one on one time with the horses.
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You can see Pumkin likes Alan Davies from his body language.
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Alan loves his chargee. He still takes care of Valegro even though he is retired. Thanks for reading and leaving a comment Emma.
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Ah, it takes a team of hard workers. 😊
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