Within the equestrian realm, there exists a crucial group of individuals who play an indispensable role. These are the caretakers of the horses, those who ensure the well-being and success of these magnificent animals. As one groom aptly stated, "They can't speak for themselves, so we have to speak for them and feel what they need and want."

The Invisible Yet Vital Third Member

When a horse and rider step onto the racetrack or arena, spectators are often captivated by the seamless synchronization of the two athletes. However, there is a third member of the team that stands just on the rail, often less visible but equally important – the groom. Grooms manage the daily tasks that are the foundation of a horse's life, from feeding and cleaning to grooming. Their jobs also extend to handling the horses' travel, veterinary care, shoeing, and therapies. They must be in tune with the horse's mood to detect any potential issues promptly. Sean Vard, who has worked as a groom for Martin Fuchs for over eight years, emphasizes, "We as grooms are solely responsible for the welfare and daily management of horses, elite equine sport animals. We do everything in our power and ability to give them the five-star luxury life they deserve."

Daily Caretaking in Racing

In the world of racing, the responsibility for a horse's care is spread among several roles. Hot walkers take over after a run, walking the horse as it cools down to ensure it has recovered properly before returning to its stall. Grooms handle the daily caretaking tasks, while an assistant trainer may oversee the work and make higher-level decisions. Arturo Ramirez started as a hot walker for David Donk over 25 years ago and has since moved up to become a groom and then an assistant trainer. Currently, he manages the daily welfare of 30-45 horses.

The Importance of Mood Detection

Being in tune with a horse's mood is a crucial skill for a groom. Horses, like humans, have their good and bad days. A groom needs to be able to sense when a horse is happy, calm, or perhaps stressed or in pain. This ability allows them to take appropriate actions to ensure the horse's well-being. For example, if a horse seems unusually agitated, a groom can investigate to see if there is an underlying issue such as a sore spot or an uncomfortable environment. By being attuned to the horse's mood, grooms can prevent minor problems from escalating into more serious ones.

The Impact on Performance

The work of grooms has a direct impact on a horse's performance. A well-cared-for horse is more likely to be in peak condition and able to give its best on the track or in the arena. The daily tasks managed by grooms, such as proper feeding and grooming, contribute to the horse's physical and mental health. When a horse feels cared for and comfortable, it is more likely to be focused and confident during competitions. This, in turn, can lead to better results for both the horse and its rider. As one trainer once said, "The groom is the unsung hero behind the scenes who makes it all possible."