Supergroom to the WINNER of Badminton Horse Trials 2022

Ever wondered what is like to be a #supergroom to the WINNER of the 2022 Badminton Horse Trials?

We first wrote this article for our magazine British Grooms, which BGA members receive as part of their membership benefits of joining the British Grooms Association.

With the 2023 Badminton Horse Trials fast approaching, we thought it is the perfect time to share this lovely feature with our wider community of grooms.

We caught up with Tilly Hughes, competition groom for event rider Laura Collet, who finished Badminton 2022 with an all-time record score.

Where did your journey working with horses begin?

"I grew up on a farm and had ponies when I was little. After taking A-Levels and going to Uni, I decided to take a gap year to work as a groom. The plan was to get horses out of my system, but I have been working with them ever since. I start out working for Jonty Evans, then I moved to work for Laura Collett."

What was the most important thing you have learnt? 

"Never stop learning!"

What does your job involve?

"Everything – looking after the horse and supporting the rider. I travel, taking horses to events, drive the lorry and work on the yard."

What do you love most about your job?

"The hard work paying off. Laura and everyone works so hard. I also love taking the horses out and seeing them being so amazing."

When you are away at events, how are the grooms at home included and recognised for the part they play?

"That is a tough one – Laura is amazing at showing her appreciation to all the grooms, she is really grateful for everyone and makes sure we all feel appreciated. We send videos and pictures back to the grooms at home, we are all one big team."

How did it feel to be at Badminton, when your rider Laura Collet won the event?

"Surreal, as it was my first time grooming at Badminton, to be able to be in the stables was amazing. It was an incredible week, a dream from start to finish."

Did Dan, (London 52), receive any special treatment that evening?

"He had lots of pink lady apples, and then peace and quiet in the stable that evening."

What advice would you have, to any grooms starting their journey, who want to get into grooming at top level events?

"You must be committed; it is a way of life. Take every opportunity you are given, do everything to the best of your ability and it doesn’t matter if you make mistakes, that is how you learn."

What do you have to say about the BGA and would you recommend grooms join the association?

"I first joined through an apprenticeship; I use the insurance and to have the BGA’s support gives peace of mind."

Good Luck Laura

We wish Laura Collett and all the team the best of luck for this year’s Badminton. It is disappointing that London 52 is unable to defend his title this year having been injured recently. Good luck for Laura riding Dacapo.

Be like Tilly and 1000’s of other grooms who have peace of mind, by joining your professional association.

If, like Tilly, you would like to become a BGA member, have a look at our membership options, from as little as 49 pence per week. 

BGA MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS

Photo credit: Roy Kilcullen