ROLEX GRAND SLAM TALKS
Earlier this year, the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping launched an exciting new Podcast series titled ‘Rolex Grand Slam Talks: ‘Through the Groom's Eyes’’. The series delves into the world behind the horse and rider, shedding light on the often-overlooked heroes - the dedicated grooms working tirelessly behind-the-scenes of top-level Show Jumping.
The podcasts, which are released quarterly ahead of each of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors, are available to listen to for free via Spotify. Much like a caddy in golf, or a mechanic in Formula One, the grooms play a vital role in the success of their horses and riders. This series of podcasts aims to educate listeners on the importance that these individuals have on the sport that we all love!
Thus far, two podcasts have been released. The inaugural episode featured Virgine Casterman and Lee McKeever who work with American rider McLain Ward. The duo, who were both vital in the victories that Ward had in the Rolex Grands Prix at CHI Geneva 2021 and The Dutch Masters 2022, spoke about their special relationship with the sensational mare HH Azur and their careers to date. The second edition of the podcast focused on Rolex Testimonee Daniel Deusser’s groom, Sean Lynch. Sean, who has worked with Deusser for nearly 10 years has had numerous successes with the former World No. 1.
Deusser commented on the crucial role that Lynch had on his successes: “Sean is incredible – I trust him 100% with the horses. He spends more time with them than I do, and the relationship between the horses and Sean is amazing to see. For him it is not a job, he lives for the sport and the horses. Sean initially came to work with us as a freelance groom, initially for just one or two weeks but he ended up staying! The relationship between a groom and rider is crucial to be successful, and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to work with him.”
Sean Vard will be the feature of the next instalment of ‘Rolex Grand Slam Talks: ‘Through the Groom's Eyes’’ which will be released in the build-up to the final Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major of the calendar year, the CHI Geneva. The Irishman, who grooms for Swiss rider Martin Fuchs, comes to the CHI Geneva as part of the Live Contender team, following Fuchs’ victory in the CPKC ‘International’, presented by Rolex at the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament this September. With victories in the Rolex Grand Prix at the CHI Geneva in 2019 and 2021, plus a close second-place finish in 2022, Fuchs is sure to be a favourite to win the 2023 edition. Vard will talk about the incredible horses that he has looked after over the years including Clooney 51 and Leone Jei, as well as his career and how he ensures that his horses are in peak condition going into major competitions.
For the latest information and podcast release dates follow @rolex_grand_slam on Instagram, and to listen to previous episodes click here.