Supergroom to a rising star

Head girl to event rider Sasha Hargreaves, Taryn Hubbard, shares some insight into her life as Supergroom to an up-and-coming star.

Taryn’s love for horses started when she was around 6 years old when her mum took her to see the pony she had before Taryn was born.

Mum and daughter would go to local shows and always watched Badminton/Burghley on TV. From the age of 10 years old ther pair would go to Badminton XC day every year, which was the start of Taryn's passion for eventing!

How long have you been working with horses?

"I have been working with horses since I was 14, I would work weekends and school holidays on a yard. When I left school, I went straight into doing an apprenticeship. I worked at that livery yard until I was 22 - after the apprenticeship I completed BHS exams and became assistant yard manager.

It had always been my dream to work at an event yard, so when I saw a job advertised as a home groom, I decided it was the perfect opportunity for me! I learnt a lot and after only 7 months, Sasha asked me to become head girl."

Can you tell us about some of the highs and lows of the job?

"My favourite part is seeing the horses progress from level to level - it is an incredible feeling knowing you have been a key part of that. The worst part of the job is if any of the horses are poorly or injured - I have a connection with all of them so it really hits me hard."

How do you manage to juggle everything during busy times?

"I go running/walking and make sure I am eating well as the job it is very active, you need to have a good diet to keep you fit and healthy! I make a list on my phone of things I need/want to do and when I can achieve them realistically. It’s always easy to think of things I need to do, but when you have a yard full of horses it isn’t always easy to find the time to do the little jobs."

What advice would you give someone just starting out as a groom?

"Take any opportunity that comes your way, make the most out of it. I always doubted myself and my ability, so wouldn’t take a chance. I know now the only way you will learn or get better is to try everything!" 

What do you do outside of the time you spend with horses?

"One thing I’ve learnt is that it is good to have a proper break even if just for the day - I try to give my own horses the same day off as me, otherwise I end up spending too much time at the yard as I always see something I could do quickly, (or not so quickly!). I like to try and relax on my day off, catch up with any errands, housework, walk the dog - sometimes see family/friends!"

What made you join the BGA?

"As soon as I started working in this industry, I joined the BGA - I have heard so many good things about the association. Plus I have their insurance, it is very important as a groom to have cover, as you never know what will happen! My love reading the magazines and they have a very good social media to follow which I really enjoy."

Taryn's story highlights how being focused on your dreams can make them come true. Through hard work and dedication she has proved to herself, and those around her, that she is worthy of her success.

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