Grooms to the riders competing in international show jumping classes at this week’s Longines Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead have the opportunity to walk away with a cash prize of up to £500.
No show jumper can be successful without the vital help provided by their grooms, and the RIHS has celebrated these individuals, who are the backbone of the industry, for a number of years.
Unnamed judges will watch over the day-to-day work of grooms in the international stabling area and assess them on the general condition and fitness of their horses, grooming and turnout, including saddlery and equipment, as well as the groom’s personal turnout.
“The grooms will not know who the judges are, but they will be people who have exceptional knowledge of show jumping and horse care,” explains Hickstead’s Peter Jeffries.
This year’s search for the best groom at the show is supported by Robinsons Healthcare. The winning groom will receive the Animalintex International Horsemastership Trophy and a £500 cash prize. The runner up will receive £300 and there are three further awards of £100.
The prizes will be awarded in the International Arena on Sunday.
