A while ago, we talked to Jana Bannister, the groom of Belgiums Niels Bruynseels. She works from the morning 'till the evening to make sure Niels' horses are in the best possible shape. How she started there and what her usual day looks like? You just have to read this article to get an answer to those questions.
How did you start grooming?
I reacted to an advertisement when I was fifteen years old but unfortunately the job was already taken. I did get the offer to help in the stables which I did. I went there every weekend and in the holidays. Just when I finished school, a groom decided to leave, so I took over the job. Since that moment, I'm always working with horses, every hour, every day.
Do you have a special moment that you will never forget?
I can honestly say that I've had a special moment with every horse I've taken care off. Maybe the best moment was in Lummen last year with Pommeau du Heup. He jumped a double clear in the Nations Cup and ended on third place in the Grand Prix. I don't think I've ever been so happy in my entire life.
What does a normal week looks like?
When it's possible, I try to keep my Mondays off. On Tuesday I shave the horses that need to be shaved and I make everything ready to leave for the competition. On Wednesday me and the horses are usually traveling to the shows. When there's no competition scheduled, it's more quiet.
What do you do on a normal 'competition day'?
I start by feeding the horses in the morning. If I have time, I take breakfast with friends. After that, I have to wait for Niels to come and ride the horses. Then I lunge the horses or I walk with them. In between all of that, I have to get the horses ready when they're jumping a class. This goes on until the evening. At night, I conclude the day with a 'night check'. I check if the horses still have hay and water and I make sure they have their blankets on.
How do you prepare a competition to a far foreign country?
I do change a lot. The first thing I do in the truck, it putting all of our stuff at the back and the horses in front. They have more space to put their head down in front of the truck... If I have to drive for more than twelve hours, I stop somewhere to rest. I stop every six hours to give the horses water and carrots. It is very important to keep the hydrated.
Which competition has been your favorite so far? And were to you still want to go in the future?
I really liked the competition of St. Moritz. It was a fantastic venue and they did a lot for the grooms. I would like to go to Miami. It looks amazing and of course I like the beach!
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Niels Bruynseels CSI3* Bonheiden by Pegasus Photography for Equnews[/caption]
