Twenty-two-year-old Olivia Galindez Cea, originally from Valencia, currently works as a groom for the Spanish international Grand Prix dressage rider and Olympian, Beatriz Ferrer Salat at Villa Equus. Olivia’s main role there is to ensure the horses health and well-being are in perfect condition. She says “this includes everything from feeding and daily grooming, riding the horses in the field, any type of on the ground training and helping Bea at competitions. My goal is to ensure the horses are comfortable and ready to perform at their best at home and competitions”
Share with us the journey from when horses came into to your life to where you are now
Olivia and Beatriz Ferrer Salat
Since I was little, I’ve been close to horses. My family has never had any connection to horses, but I was always looking for opportunities to be in contact with them. When it came to studying, I didn’t follow a conventional path. My passion for horses led me to train through different work experiences and specialized courses. I’ve always enjoyed learning about all aspects of the equine world. At sixteen, I went to the stables of a show jumper in Madrid, to whom I owe everything I know and who I am today. He taught me so much about horses, but more importantly, he helped me grow as a person. I spent five years there helping with stable work and caring for the horses, in addition to riding. During that time, I obtained my degree as a veterinary assistant specialised in horses. I had the opportunity to work at the equine veterinary hospital at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, where I learned everything I know about veterinary care and met amazing people. Afterward, I worked at the equine veterinary hospital at CEU San Pablo University in Valencia. However, I realised that my path was more focused on the care of horses within the sports and competitive sphere. Still, I’m grateful to all the veterinary professionals who have taught me so much over the years.
What does your role as a groom involve?
The work of a groom is very comprehensive and goes beyond the physical care of the horses. It involves stable cleaning, feeding, maintaining the horses, and making sure each one is in optimal condition for work. On top of that, I also make sure all the equipment is ready for competitions and assist Bea during training and competitions. Honestly, going to shows is my favourite part; I always say I could live at shows forever. It’s a job that requires attention to detail and, above all, a lot of dedication.
What makes what you do special?
For me, what makes it special is the connection and bond with the horses, the ability to influence their performance, and the fundamental role you play in the success of the pair or the team. It’s not just a physical job — it’s an emotional commitment to the horses. Seeing their progress and being part of the pair in competition is incredibly rewarding. Also, being part of a high-level team like Bea’s motivates me to be better every single day.
Tasks that you least like doing?
What I like the least is when there’s an unexpected situation, like a sick horse or an injury. But even though it’s not the most fun part of the job, it’s essential to do it with the same, or even more, dedication. When you see progress in their recovery, it’s very rewarding too.
Memorable moments?
Even though I’ve only been in the grooming world for a short time, being able to go to Aachen with Bea and Elegance was a dream come true and an experience I’ll never forget. I’d also highlight being part of the team for the European Championship in Crozet — they both did a great job. Feeling like part of the national team and representing my country is something I’m truly proud of. These are the moments that make all the hard work and sacrifice worthwhile.
Hardest parts of being a groom?
Sometimes horses can be unpredictable, and you must be prepared for any situation. The demands aren’t just about the well-being of the horses, but also about your ability to stay alert and anticipate what might happen.
What advice could you give to someone who wants to follow in your footsteps?
The most important thing is to have a genuine passion for horses and be willing to constantly learn. It’s a big mistake to think you know everything. The work is demanding but very rewarding. My advice would be to seek out experiences and make the most of them, not to be afraid to start from the bottom, and to always be ready to improve and adapt.
What does it mean to you to work as part of the support team?
Teamwork is essential — all the work a groom does is aimed at contributing to the success of the horse-and-rider partnership. The work between a rider and their groom is a shared effort, where each person plays a vital role. It’s like a triangle with three points: the horse, the rider, and the groom. If one of the three fails, the triangle falls apart. I’m very happy and incredibly grateful that Bea has given me the opportunity to grow and learn by her side, and that she trusts me to take care of her horses.
What have been some unexpected parts of being a groom?
One of the things that has surprised me the most is how many things you have to consider when preparing for competitions — getting all the equipment ready and making sure you bring absolutely everything you might need at the show. It’s a job that requires a lot of organization, and although it’s often behind the scenes, it’s incredibly important to make sure everything runs smoothly.
A horse that holds a special place in your heart?
My mare is obviously the most important horse in my life, but specifically, the horse with whom I’ve created the strongest bond and spend the most time is Elegance, Bea’s Grand Prix horse. He’s an incredibly sensitive horse with a bit of a complicated personality, but when he trusts you, he gives you everything. Thanks to him, I’m living these experiences.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
Right now, I want to enjoy the present. My goal is to keep growing and learning, both as a professional and as a person.
Your Top Tip
My main piece of advice is to be willing to learn and to be patient. Horses are very sensitive animals, and our job as grooms is to understand them and take care of them as best as we can. The dedication and love for what you do shows in the final result.
Products you can’t live without?
There are several essential products for me — brushes, shampoo, hoof oil… but I think one thing you absolutely can’t forget is ice. After tough training sessions or competitions, it’s really important to apply ice boots to the legs to help reduce inflammation and prevent injuries. It’s an essential part of post-work care.
What tips can you offer for being organised when away at competitions?
The key is preparation — I always bring a checklist with everything needed for the trip. It’s very important to be methodical and to have a set daily routine during competition days.