Standing Ovation by Ovation Riding
This week’s honoree: Lee McKeever, winner of the 2018 FEI Best Groom Award.
Behind nearly every great international rider is a team of individuals working together to ensure that the athlete can stay at the top of their game: the phrase “it takes a village” seems custom-written for equestrian sports with a support crew of veterinarians, bodyworkers, farriers and grooms working hard behind the scenes.
That’s why we love that the FEI names a Best Groom Award, decided by both a panel of experts and a public vote. This year, the winner is Lee McKeever, groom to four-time Olympian McLain Ward of the USA.
“He knows the horses better than anybody. There’s never been a moment where I doubted that my horses were in the best of care [and at the] best preparation to compete." -McLain WardHe’s a vital part of our team and an inspiration to many horsemen around the world. Congratulations to Lee McKeever on winning Fédération Equestre Internationale's Best Groom Award! #USAJumping
Posted by USA Jumping on Tuesday, November 20, 2018
Perhaps the vote of confidence that says the most, McKeever is a mentor to other grooms as well as other riders — I love that other professionals seek him out, saying more than words ever will about this man’s expertise, leadership and character.
Congratulations, Lee McKeever!
Many thanks thanks to Ovation Riding for their support of both Horse Nation and individuals and organizations that are doing good work in the horse world. If you know someone who deserves a Standing Ovation, we would love to recognize them in a future post. Email the name of the person or organization along with a message about the good work they do to [email protected]. Photos/videos are always welcome, and include a link to their website if applicable.
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