Adam Short - Nominee for Cavalor FEI Best Groom

As we catch up with Adam Short, he’s watching Tom McEwen and Quintus practice their dressage test, quietly taking mental notes.

It’s this calm focus and meticulous attention to detail that has made Adam one of the most respected grooms on the eventing circuit – and now, one of four finalists for the FEI Cavalor Best Groom Award.

“Honestly, it’s absolute madness,” Adam laughs. “I don’t really know how it happened, but it’s such a privilege to be chosen.

It’s such a big deal – a really recognised award – and to think my name was even in consideration is crazy. To be one of four grooms in the industry shortlisted is out of this world.”

Recognition for grooms

Adam is passionate about what this kind of recognition means for grooms. “It’s amazing to be put on the same pedestal as the riders,” he says. “Everyone works really hard, and we’re such an important part of the team. I hope it continues.”

Seeing his name on the board and hearing it announced over the loudspeaker at the recent European Championships at Blenheim was a moment of real pride. “For members of the public, it helps them see how much goes on behind the scenes,” Adam explains. “There’s a whole network of people working to make it happen, and that kind of visibility is amazing.”

Lists, Lists and More Lists

When it comes to life as a travelling competition groom, Adam says planning is key. “It’s not just daily care, everything is planned in advance,” he says. “We’d been preparing for the European Championships for a year.

You’re managing the vet visits, farrier, feed routines, vaccinations – everything down to the smallest detail.

Adam admits he’s “a bit list-obsessed.” “I’ve got multiple lists going at once – checking, and checking again. The more you write down, the better. In the last month alone, we’ve done Blenheim, Osberton, Pau, Le Lion, and now Boekelo. It takes huge organisation to make it all run smoothly.”

Loving Life on the Road

Despite the long days and constant travel, Adam wouldn’t have it any other way. “I love the buzz of being away.” he smiles. “If I was at home for a month straight, I’d probably be exhausted, but on the road the energy is totally different. You see friends you don’t live close to and get to catch up – it’s brilliant.”

At Boekelo, Adam is looking after Quintus, an eight-year-old who he describes fondly as “a very lovely boy.” “If he could talk, he’d probably ask me to be a bit quieter,” he jokes. “He loves to eat grass, so we spend a lot of time hand-grazing.”

Tools of the Trade

Ask Adam about the one thing he can’t live without, and the answer comes without hesitation: “A hoofpick! I always have one on me.

I once got stopped at airport security because I’d forgotten one was still in my pocket. For a moment I thought I was going to get in trouble for trying to bring a weapon on board!”

Looking Ahead

After an incredible few seasons that included Paris 2024, Adam’s already thinking about the future. “We’d love to be part of the World Championships and the next Olympics is definitely in the back of my mind,” he admits.

“It’s funny,” Adam reflects, “at school I wasn’t really sporty at all – and now I’m the one at the Olympics!

As our chat wraps up, he pauses for a moment, watching Tom and Quintus once again. “I just feel very grateful,” he says. “To everyone who nominated me, who’s voted, and to all the people and teams who’ve helped me get here. It’s a bit overwhelming, but really, really cool.”

Voting for the FEI Awards 2025: Cavalor FEI Best Groom close on Sunday 12th October! Use the button below to cast your vote.

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