Wine, Vodka and Cigarettes

Adam Short, #Supergroom to Tom McEwen has very kindly spoken to the BGA about his role as a groom.

As a small child Adam asked his mum for a pet dog, she said no sending him off for riding lessons. Adam’s mum thought the novelty would wear off, a mistake most parents make!

Although Adam still rides, he has decided to concentrate fully on his career as trying to compete alongside his busy role was becoming too time-consuming. Adam still enjoys a little jump or a gallop whenever he can.

YOU ARE SO WELL RESPECTED AS A GROOM, ALWAYS SO FRIENDLY AND UPBEAT. HOW DO YOU STAY POSITIVE EVEN IN TOUGH TIMES?

"I genuinely just love the sport and all the people involved. Everyone is so kind. I think everyone really champions each other. The opportunity to go to amazing three-day events and visit so many beautiful places is just brilliant. Doing this job has made me friends for life. It also gives me a great social life!"

DO YOU HAVE A TOP TIP YOU CAN SHARE WITH US?

"I honestly think you should prioritise the welfare of your horse over their turnout. Obviously, I always turn the horses out well, but I would prefer to give them more time grazing to help them relax rather than fretting about a plait not being completely perfect."

DO YOU HAVE A FUNNY STORY YOU CAN SHARE WITH US, ONE THAT WE CAN PRINT?!

"Oh, there are so many! I was once at a three-day event, and I went to a party on the Saturday night. I woke up so late on Sunday morning that I only just made it to the trot up. Somehow the rider didn’t notice though! That was at my first ever three-day event!"

WHo would be your dream dinner party guests, past or present?

"Kris Jenner, Beyonce, Zac Efron and the late Queen."

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE EVENTS?

"There are so many, and I am so lucky to have been to them. I particularly love Bramham, Kentucky and Pau."

ARE THERE ANY EVENTS YOU HAVEN’T BEEN TO THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO GO TO?

"I think I have covered most of them now. On my bucket list were Kentucky, Aachen and Boekelo and I have been to them all. They really are fabulous events."

HOW DO YOU LOOK AFTER YOURSELF DURING THE BUSY EVENT SEASON?

"In all seriousness though, I always make sure I have my day off and try to have some down time.

You do get tired and it’s not practical to work for weeks on end without a break. I also have planned a big winter break this year and I am taking 5 weeks off to do some travelling and rest."

HAVE YOU SEEN STANDARDS AT EVENTS CHANGE OVER RECENT YEARS?

"I think the food available to grooms has got much better – we really appreciate it when we get meal tickets. Also, the parties are definitely better! Plus, we really appreciate a goody bag.

Estate managers are very welcoming and accommodating for grooms. It is great to hear the grooms getting more recognition at major championships too. Hearing your name being called out alongside the rider, horse and owners is a real win."

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART ABOUT BEING A GROOM?

"The community is so special. I was lucky enough to be taught everything I know by the amazing Jackie Potts. There are so many good people involved in this sport. I love my job and I love the horses."

WHAT IS IT LIKE TRAVELLING ABROAD WITH THE HORSES NOW COMPARED TO PRE-BREXIT?

"It is more difficult now and it takes so much longer as there is so much paperwork to complete. You can be sat in Calais for hours which changes everything, when you need to get the horses off, when you need to stop, and so on. Even though it is more difficult, I love European events so much."

DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS ON MAINTAINING GOOD RELATIONSHIPS WITH KEY PEOPLE, SUCH AS THE FARRIER, VET, FEED COMPANIES?

"I think always be nice, be organised and make lots of tea and coffee for them!"

WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR KEEPING WARM IN WINTER?

"I always wear my waterproof over trousers to keep me warm and dry and I just try to keep moving all the time. Also, don’t shave your legs!"

We really want to thank Adam for his time and for making us laugh so much throughout the interview! 

Be like Adam and join your Professional Association; the organisation that supports, represents, and champions the career of all grooms. As a BGA member you will enjoy discounted insurance policies, education, and support. 

JOIN US

Be part of a community of grooms, just like you. 

If 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