THE LOOK OF A CHAMPION

For dressage enthusiasts, there may be no sight more breathtaking than a stunning Grand Prix horse and rider passaging effortlessly down centerline at a major international championship. But it’s the countless hours of work and worry behind the scenes by devoted grooms that help make that happen. What does it take to keep elite equine athletes like Valegro and

Legolas happy, healthy and performing at their best both at home and on the road?

Dressage Today spoke with four top grooms from around the world to get a sneak peek at their work behind the scenes as well as share some of their tips for success with your own horses. Following are thoughts from Great Britain’s Alan Davies, America’s

Eddie Garcia, the Netherlands’ Vanessa Ruiter and Germany’s Carmen Thiemann.

Know Your Horse

Alan Davies is the ever-present guardian and friend of the dressage horses ridden by Olympians Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester in Gloucestershire, Great Britain, including international superstar Valegro, Uthopia, Nip Tuck and Wanadoo as well as several up-and-coming youngsters. Known for the immaculate turnout and care of these mounts, who are constantly under the \spotlight of dressage superstardom, Davies was nominated for the 2014 FEI award for best groom.

DT: What are your job responsibilities?

Davies: I have an apartment above the stables so I am always close to the horses, and I am responsible for the day-to-day care of all the Grand Prix horses that are here at the barn. I am in charge of all veterinary and shoeing details, and I have to organize travel details for all competitions. I drive the horses and take care of their needs while getting to all the major competitions here and in Europe and manage everything for the horses at the show for both Carl and Charlotte.

DT: How long have you been in this position?

Davies: Six years ago Carl asked me to take four horses to Vidauban in the south of France for a two-week show. It was Valegro’s first international competition. I was supposed to just do the one show, but I wasn’t allowed to leave, and I’m still here.

DT: Do you have a favorite horse that you care for?

I hate to talk about favorites because I love and respect all my charges for varying reasons. Obviously, I have developed a