'Grooms deserve reward for all that they do'

Carl Hester on recognising grooms and the London International

- Oscar Williams

NOMINATIONS are now closed for the 20th Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, which “celebrate and recognise the remarkable dedication and commitment of those working at the grassroots of horseracing. These hardworking employees provide the best possible care to our horses and people.”

Generous Godolphin sponsorship provides £128,500 in prize money for the six categories.

Results are in February next year and it got me wondering. It’s lovely to have a medal, trophy or mantelpiece decoration – and we’re very proud our own Lucy Scudamore was voted Groom of the Year at the recent Horse & Hound Awards. However, isn’t it time the horse sport industry stepped up to provide a similar tangible reward?

These diligent staff members devote so much love, knowledge and detail to caring for our horses and making it happen for all of our riders and owners.

Looking back over this year, the highlight was obviously our team gold in Riesenbeck. With three scores over 80% in the grand prix special, this bodes well for next year’s Paris Olympics where the special will determine the team medals.