Voting is open in the FEI Awards until 13 October.
Today, we are catching up with Bettina Cardi, event groom to Lara de Lierdekerke.
How does it feel to be nominated for the FEI Cavalor Best Groom award?
“It’s really nice, so cool and I was so surprised to hear. I was not expecting it at all. Clients have always told me I’m hard working, but also I’ve never worked for someone for more than 4 years.
I’m good friends with Kerryn (Edmans, who won in 2022) and she’s more the sort of groom I imagine would be nominated for this – she flew across the world for that job and has stayed with Tim and Jonelle for more than 10 years. So it’s a really lovely surprise to be nominated myself this year!”
And was the first you knew about your nomination the email from the FEI?
“Yes! We start work here at 8, but I always get up early to make a plan for the day. I opened my emails and couldn’t believe it. I’d sent a screenshot to Lara before I realised she was cc’d anyway – so I was the last one to know.”
What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?
“That’s hard to say – probably two memories, both at Luhmühlen. This year, with Lara winning with Hooney d’Arville. I have always loved this mare, even before I worked for Lara.
I’ve believed in her so much, and we’ve worked together as a team to get through her stress in the dressage. I have so much respect for the horsemanship of Lara and Kai (her husband) and it was incredible to see it all pay off.
My other memory is of the 2019 Europeans with Ludwig (Svennerstal). Sweden were not qualified for Tokyo, and we were under so much pressure, going everywhere to try and qualify.
Ludwig’s horse (El Kazir) was always so grumpy at home, and lovely at events. Team Sweden made me feel so welcome and part of everything, and to see them get a podium finish, qualifying for Tokyo, was very special.”
Is there one thing you hope will change for grooms in the future?
“that’s really hard. I think I hope that what changes is more than social media recognition.
Maybe I’ve picked well, but I’ve always had jobs where I have worked really hard, but I have had balance. I got holidays, and days off, I have good accommodation. Of course this will never be a 9-5 job but there does have to be balance.
I talk to too many grooms who don’t have that, and a social media post saying ‘thank you to my groom’ does not outweigh horrible accommodation or any of the other things you hear about.”
You can vote for your 2024 winners here
Photo credit Tilly Berendt
