Lavinia, 26, got into the saddle for the first time when she was eight and fell madly in love with the adrenaline of competitions. Along the way, she discovered the intimacy and trust that comes from looking after your own horse on a daily basis.
So, 3 years ago, she began asking herself: «Why should I carry on riding when there’s a profession that allows me to enjoy my relationship with horses on an equal footing? »
This question prompted the definitive decision to become a professional groom – and thanks to Riccardo Boricchi, she became part of the team at the Arezzo Equestrian Centre, where she follows a very precise routine: «I arrive at the stables at 6.30 so I can brush, clean and saddle the five horses I look after. I feel that I am very fortunate to be able to spend so much time with friends and take care of them on a daily basis».
However, you don’t learn the work of a groom from books but in the field: «Growing professionally means it is important to watch and steal the secrets of people who have more experience than you. In every context, especially where top riders are concerned, I have always meticulously observed how their grooms work, in the practice and the competition rings alike, learning a great deal. Working near professionals such as farriers, riders, veterinarians and instructors also helped me understand more deeply how to manage all the needs of horses».
And Fieracavalli, thanks to its versatility and the involvement of the most important figures on the equestrian scene, is the perfect stage for learning more about this world: I started following the event on TV and on Internet from an early age. I didn’t want to miss anything, so much so that as soon as I got my driving licence, the first trip with my friends was precisely to Fieracavalli. And ever since then, it has always been an essential occasion».
The appointment with the most important event on the international equestrian scene is in Verona 9-12 November 2023.
