The IGA is working to see changes at FEI shows which will have a positive impact on grooms’ working lives. Better stable facilities, better food provision, better communication.
We know there is a long way to go – but by working alongside the FEI, stewards and shows we know we can bring about the change we want to see.
There is another group of people who can make a grooms’ working life easier – grooms.
In our latest blog, our Rep Silvia reflects on what happens when no one takes responsibility for the stable environment, and how grooms can already do better for each other.
My second life lesson - the idea of leaving a place the way you would like to find it - is something I miss on many shows, especially when there is no clear lead by the stable manager.
Honestly - I have a ton of respect for a good stable manager, but you can always tell when this is missing, and things get out of hand. I had a show like this some weeks ago.
On day one the grooms created a muck heap by themselves and for 4 whole days nobody looked after it. It grew so much that it got nearly impossible to walk the horses between the manure and the tents.
But what was even worse was all the trash. The trash bins were full after the first day and just like the manure - nobody cared at all. At some point, the stable manager tried to empty them a bit but the trash was flying around all over the stable area.
And people didn’t seem to mind at all, adding even more trash to the scenery. It was a real dump.
At this point I want to put the spotlight on every one of us – yes, the stable manager and show organiser should give us proper circumstances but it’s also not their job to constantly clean up behind us like they are cleaning staff.
We are all adults and should be more than able to take care of that
As a final result of these thoughts there is one thing I really wish for the groom community of the future: less of “me first, rest of the world can see for themselves“.
Walk to the wash place some meters away instead of washing your horse on the grass where everybody has to walk.
Push your muck back – and then the next person is more likely to do the same.
We are all professionals, and want to be seen and treated as such – but it’s our responsibility to act like professionals. Otherwise, the cycle of disrespect goes on.
Look after each other and most of all: celebrate the success of other grooms like it’s your own!”
