“ONE day, I’m going to work for Carl Hester,” announced eight-year-old Lucy Scudamore to her mother some time around 2005. Now, 19 years later, her dream has come true in ways she could have hardly imagined. As head groom for Carl Hester and Charlotte Dujardin, having stepped up to the top job on their Gloucestershire yard after Alan Davies’ retirement in early 2023, Lucy is now a familiar face in dressage circles. Anyone who wasn’t already aware of her certainly is now – Lucy rounded off a whirlwind 2023 by being named Absorbine Groom of the Year at the H&H Awards.
“I remember watching Carl on TV aged eight and being completely obsessed. I decided I didn’t need to work at school because I was going to go and work for Carl,” she chuckles, although young Lucy’s intention was not to become a groom.
“I always thought I would be a dressage rider, but by 18 I was doing some work with young horses for Sandra Biddlecombe, just up the road from Carl, and I realised around that time that not everyone can be a rider,” she says.
What unfolded next could be attributed to fate. Lucy had done a work experience stint with Carl while training at Hartpury and got to know Charlotte during her time with Sandra – developing a particular affinity with a tall, quirky black youngster of Charlotte’s. When Charlotte mentioned back in 2017 that Alan was making mutterings about retirement – six years prematurely, as it turned out – she suggested to Lucy that she might be a good fit for a groom’s job at Carl’s.
Denne historien er fra February 01, 2024-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
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Denne historien er fra February 01, 2024-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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'He's a terrier - a very classy terrier'
Jonbon emulates some legendary chasers as a dual Tingle Creek victor, and trainer Dan Skelton scores a seasonal century
Rupert
This beautiful master's horse hates quad bikes and is \"scared of his rug\" but is dearly loved by both Nigel Peel and his son Jamie
London's landmark moments
What makes London so special for dressage fans? Oscar Williams delves into its unique history, speaking to experts about their most treasured memories and the show's remarkable evolution in the sport
Golden oldies take centre stage
The finals at London International are among the most regarded championships on the senior showing circuit. Alex Robinson investigates the finals and what's contributed to their popularity
Winter wrapped up
With the long-range weather forecast suggesting a chilly winter ahead, how can equestrians prepare for the challenges of frost, ice and snow? Stephanie Bateman finds out
Party time
From Whitaker vs Whitaker football matches to a hunting choir roaring carols, top riders know how to let their hair down at Christmastime. Netia Walker unearths the best festive parties
Rocking their world
Rocking horses were once a common fixture in children's playrooms - or a charming trinket on a Christmas tree. Now, some are getting a new lease of life for grown-up enthusiasts, finds Liz Falkingham
Winter watering
Maintaining a horse's water intake is crucial, but can be tricky in the colder months. Karen Coumbe MRCVS explains why, and how to help
Shetland Pony Grand National organiser
Sebastian Garner on whittling down applicants, playing headmaster and the joy of watching Shetlands at full lick
Peder Fredricson
The Swedish flagbearer and four-time Olympic medallist tells Jennifer Donald about 2024's ups and downs, the key to social licence and silver linings
