A Unique Evolution and Blind Trust

The foundation of their current success was laid years ago when both were just starting their careers. Felicia was only 19 when she began, and Richie was in his early twenties. Growing up together in elite sport naturally brought its challenges, and disagreements were a normal part of the process along the way. Over the years, however, they have learned how the other communicates and what they need from one another.

Today, they share an unbreakable bond built on pure, mutual trust. This brings an incredible sense of peace to the team; Richie can rely on Felicia completely while she is working with the horses at home, making constant updates or check-ins entirely unnecessary.

The Daily Balance Between Groom and Rider

The structure at the stable has evolved organically alongside their success. While Felicia initially traveled everywhere as a pure show groom, she now spends more time at home managing operations. Her role sits perfectly in the middle, balancing the responsibilities of both a groom and a rider.

Mornings are dedicated entirely to riding between three and five horses a day, including the top stallion United Touch S. These training sessions under saddle are usually on the lighter side, specifically focused on keeping the horses fit, relaxed, and happy. It is only in the afternoon that Felicia switches to her management duties, such as stable management, daily care, paperwork, and prepping the horses for shows.

"A horse needs to be a horse first and foremost. Happy horses are the ones that go that extra mile for you in the ring."

The Mental Well-being of Elite Horses

Within this daily routine, the mental well-being of the horses is perhaps the most crucial priority. Even though elite sports horses are extremely valuable and cared for down to the smallest detail, it remains the groom's responsibility to safely let them just be horses.

Horses need to use their natural instincts: spending time outside, seeing other horses, and experiencing variety in their daily schedule, like a relaxing ride through the forest. Stripping away those natural needs also removes a part of the animal's personality and motivation. The philosophy at the stable is simple: only a horse that is mentally happy can perform consistently at the absolute highest level.

The Deep Bond with United Touch S

Just how intense the connection between a groom and a horse can become is proven by Felicia’s bond with the top horse United Touch S, whom she has cared for day in and day out for nearly five years. Spending so much time together—whether at home, traveling, or at competitions—allows you to know each other inside and out. He is an extremely intelligent and observant horse who always wants to understand what is happening around him.

They share this need for clarity, which leads to Felicia talking to him constantly. While horses do not understand the specific words, they pick up on energy and emotion flawlessly. Before a major competition, she often quietly explains the plan to him. The result is a total sense of security; whenever he feels nervous or unsure, he looks directly to her for reassurance. This support goes both ways, as the horse has also been there for her mentally during difficult times in her personal life.

Routine and Calmness Under High Pressure

This strong partnership is truly put to the test during major, high-stress international competitions. The art lies in keeping everything as normal as possible during those exact moments. Because horses are highly sensitive and immediately absorb stress from their handlers, it is the groom’s job to act as a beacon of calm.

In the hours leading up to a major class, they stick strictly to their usual routine: a relaxing morning walk, perhaps a light warm-up under saddle, and then the physical preparation using massage blankets and nebulizers. By remaining completely calm herself, Felicia ensures that the horses head into the arena feeling comfortable and relaxed.

The Challenges and Rewards of the Profession

The life of an international groom comes with incredible highs, but it also demands immense sacrifices. It is a physically and mentally demanding existence where it is easy to put yourself last; after all, the care of the horse and the support of the rider always come first. Furthermore, constant travel means living a life far away from home. Especially during difficult times, such as the loss of a family member, being far from home presents a heavy challenge.

Yet, balanced against those tough moments are unforgettable rewards. The profession offers the opportunity to travel the world and meet incredible people. But the ultimate satisfaction lies in the sporting payoff behind the scenes. When all the pieces of the puzzle fall into place after years of blood, sweat, and tears, and you manage to secure a major victory together, it brings an indescribable feeling. It is a demanding lifestyle, but for those who do the work with all their heart and soul, it rewards them with a unique bond and an extraordinary life.