Five minutes with ......Georgina

The BGA grabbed five minutes on the iconic Badminton House lawn with Georgina Tapner, wife and groom to Australian team rider Paul.

You're no stranger to Badminton but why is it such a special event?

I think it's the history that surrounds it, you feel very proud to be here. It's all special but when you go the other side to the stables the buzz is like nothing else.

Why do you chose to groom here for Paul?

I groom because I can't watch! I want to be here and involved and grooming keeps me busy. For example after starting Paul [for xc] I ambled back to fill my water buckets, just to waste time! People are great and thus come and chat to me as they know how nervous I get when he is out on course. Also as an employer I can't afford a groom to be here for all of the days. We have a wonderful Head Girl, Rowan, and she comes for cross country day to help and to watch.

Badminton really look after their grooms, they feed us well and make sure that we are ok.

How is your horse Vanir Kamira at competitions?

Tilly is very easy and laid back to do which makes the job easier!

How important is it to have a reliable team at home?

I am so lucky with Rowan, she has been with us for four years and I would t function without her. I really know that I can trust her 100%. And she nags Paul as much as me! She lives and breathes team Tapner, she really is very special. We also have a work rider Ben, who is also great. 

What advice would you give to grooms looking to be employed by top class riders?

You have to be open minded, you might not like the job as its a way of life, so it's important to try it and see if it's for you. It's not about clock watching the welfare of the horses comes first. You need to make yourself as employable as possible, ask questions, learn from everyone and look for opportunities.

Do you employ staff too? Have a look at the Employers Zone for lots of support for your business.