The IGA is very proud to be working with the National Horse Show, and we're very excited to see the great plans they have for the grooms heading to Kentucky. Here the team behind the show tell us why it's important to them to recognise the role of the grooms and what they have put in place for this year.

The National Horse Show - an event that most, if not all of the top equestrians in the sport are familiar with. It is the longest running indoor horse show in the United States and has been home to some of the most legendary equestrians and equine athletes in the history of the sport. Featuring hunters, equitation, and international show jumpers, qualified athletes are invited to the famed Kentucky Horse Park to spend time in their well-deserved spotlight after an incredible year of competition.

Each horse and rider is unique in their abilities and talents but all tend to share one thing in common at this elite level. The phrase “it takes a village” is often heard in winner’s circles, and celebrating the small victories and the success stories. The “village” is often one of the most important parts of a horse and rider journey. The grooms that make up each team behind the scenes are a crucial, and sometimes overlooked, part of the sport that the National Horse Show works to recognize. 

Many members of the organizing committee at the National Horse Show have worked as grooms in the past. The team is well placed to understand the unique challenges faced behind the scenes of the show ring and is honored to  turn the spotlight onto the men and women who work tirelessly to help horses and riders achieve success.

The National Horse Show is committed to showing their appreciation towards the dedicated grooms that spend countless hours before sunrise and beyond sunset  caring for the four-legged athletes as if they are their own, and setting up their riders for great performances. The true success of the sport requires all hands on deck, and these are the ones that matter.