Living a jet set grooms life

Alison Bell is living a jet set grooms life and so far in 2023 has been busy traveling to international competitions with event rider Yasmin Ingham.

She grew up in Belfast, Northern Ireland in a completely unhorsey family and started riding as a child. She holds a BSc Equine Management degree and a MSc in Veterinary Physiotherapy and now resides in Cheshire.

Whilst getting ready for travelling to Aachen, she took some time out to share with us a bit about her career so far.

How did your career as a groom start?

In between my second and third year at university I went to Twemlow’s Stud Farm for a few weeks to do some foaling. While I was there, I decided to email Joseph Murphy back home in Northern Ireland. Jill and Joseph kindly took me on for the remainder for my summer break, which is where I got the bug for eventing. After University I went back to Joseph's for another year where I gained an invaluable amount of experience.

Whilst I was completing my MSc, I applied for a job with the late Sue Davies and her daughter Janette Chinn at their beautiful yard in Cheshire, where I have continued to work with Yasmin Ingham and her string of event horses.

What competitions have you been up to recently?

I have just been at Luhmulhen with Yasmin, who had a brilliant result with Rehy DJ finishing 3rd. He really pulled it out of a bag and it was amazing to see him in a podium position against such a strong list of horses that have had more experience at 5*. He really is a special horse!

Next week we are off to Aachen with Banzai du Loir. They are such good events, I'm really excited to get the opportunity to go back!

We have also taken our younger horses to their first international for the CCI2*L at Belsay which was a beautiful event, they both had very educational runs with Goliath du Loir finishing 3rd.

What’s the best thing about being a groom?

The best thing about being a groom is the satisfaction of the job. The long hours you put into caring for the horses at home and away at shows, develops a bond with the horses that you won't forget. It's so rewarding to look after each of them and get to know their individual personalities. It's truly a pleasure to see them achieve their goals in their careers.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

I think my favourite career highlights would be going to my first ever international event while I was with Joseph Murphy, and from there being a part of Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir’s achievements to date at Kentucky and WEG, will always be very special to me.

Would you recommend the BGA and if so, why?

I would definitely recommend the BGA, it puts your mind at rest knowing you are insured and secure in your job role. They are also a brilliant source of advice/knowledge if you have any queries.

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