September HorseGroom
Behind the Barn Doors: A Groom’s Journey From Rider to Barn Manager. An interview with Abbe Lynch
How did your journey with horses begin?
Like many of us, I was your typical horse-crazy girl growing up. My mom was a single parent, so I didn’t have access to the ‘big’ equestrian opportunities, but I started riding when I was seven and explored a mix of disciplines — beginning with saddle seat before transitioning into equitation and a bit of dressage.
When I was 14, I had to make a choice between riding and joining my high school drill team. I ended up choosing the latter — though my mom later told me she thought for sure I’d stick with horses. I don’t regret it, though. That experience taught me valuable skills like performing, presenting myself, and switching gears quickly depending on my audience — all things that help me now as a groom and barn manager.
Years later, when my daughter caught the horse bug, I found a local hunter-jumper barn for her — Sundance Equestrian in Woodinville, Washington. After watching her lessons for about a year, the itch came back. Before long, I was riding again, helping with barn management, grooming for the head trainer, and eventually stepping into my current role as barn manager and groom.
I’ve been doing this professionally for about three years now — though I like to joke that it’s my ‘retirement job’ since I made the switch in my mid-50s!
What does a typical day look like for you?
There’s really no such thing as a typical day at the barn — each one brings something new. We have a great staff who handles the daily care like mucking, turnout, and feeding, but I’m hands-on and often help out wherever needed. My main responsibilities include feed management, scheduling farrier and vet appointments, and grooming for our head trainer during rides.
No matter what’s going on, every day is a learning opportunity. I’m lucky to have a strong network of fellow barn managers and trainers to lean on whenever I need advice — there’s always someone willing to share their knowledge.
What advice would you give to an aspiring groom?
I think the biggest key is getting to know each horse as an individual. We’re a smaller facility of about 12 horses, which gives me the luxury of learning what makes each one tick. You start to recognize their quirks, their favorite grooming spots, and how to help them through moments when they’re nervous or uncomfortable.
For me, the horses aren’t just animals I care for — they’re my partners. We’re in it together.
Was there a defining moment that made you feel like you’d found your stride as a groom?
Developing systems and organization has been a huge part of my growth. When I first started managing the barn and attending shows, I realized how important it was to have clear, repeatable procedures — for everything from packing the trailer to unpacking after a show.
I’ve created standard operating procedures so that if I ever move on, the next person can step in smoothly. I’ve also developed tracking systems for supplements and feed adjustments during shows, which helps us fine-tune each horse’s care. The barn owner loves it — it’s made our entire operation more streamlined and transparent.
What are your go-to products that Corro offers that have made a difference in your barn?
We have quite a few off-the-track thoroughbreds at our barn, and as anyone who’s worked with them knows — their hooves can be a challenge. I love seeing the transformation when we put them on a good hoof supplement. Watching the new, healthy hoof grow in — smooth, strong, and less crumbly — is so satisfying. Even our farrier notices the difference.
How has the HorseGrooms community helped you in your career?
I’ll admit it — I’m a bit of a lurker! I don’t post often, but I love reading the content and seeing what others are sharing. The videos about preparing for shows are great — sometimes I see something I already do, and other times I find a new trick to try.
It’s just nice to know there’s a community out there of people who truly understand the job — the long hours, the quiet victories, and the joy of seeing a horse thrive under your care.
What’s your favorite part of being a groom?
The quiet moments. Early in the morning or late at night, when it’s just me and the horses, and the barn is still. You hear them munching hay, shifting in their stalls, or lying down for a rest — it’s peaceful and grounding.
Those moments remind me why I love what I do. It’s not just a job; it’s a way of life.
Meet the Corro HorseGroom of the Month
At Corro, we know that behind every great horse is a dedicated groom. Many of us have worked as professional grooms ourselves, so we understand the skill, commitment, and passion it takes to care for horses at the highest level. That’s why we’ve partnered with HorseGrooms, the leading global platform for grooms, to recognize an outstanding professional each month.
Each Corro HorseGroom of the Month is selected from HorseGrooms Insiders, an exclusive membership for grooms looking to learn, grow, and connect with industry experts. Winners receive a $100 Corro gift card and are featured in this special interview, which we’re proud to share with the Corro community and on the HorseGrooms website.
Join us in celebrating this month’s honoree and their incredible contributions to horse care!
About HorseGrooms
HorseGrooms is a global platform dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for equine grooms from all levels and disciplines. HorseGrooms’ Insiders membership in the HorseGrooms Community offers exclusive Q&A sessions with top grooms, a supportive online community, discounts and perks especially for grooms, and valuable resources to help grooms succeed in their careers.
Grooms: Become a HorseGrooms Insider and unlock all the benefits. Join Here
Trainers, Riders & Barn Owners: Show your appreciation by gifting your groom an Insiders membership—a meaningful way to invest in their growth and expertise. Learn more here.
Stable Owners & Managers: Support the mission of HorseGrooms by becoming a Stable Supporter and help to provide more resources for grooms across the industry. Learn more → Stable Supporter Program
Learn more about HorseGrooms at horsegrooms.com
