The Corro HorseGroom of the Month is selected from HorseGrooms Insiders, our exclusive membership for grooms looking to learn, grow, and connect with industry experts. Each winner receives a $100 Corro gift card and is featured in a special interview, shared in Corro’s newsletter and on the HorseGrooms website.
As the go-to online store for equestrian essentials, Corro offers top-quality products for horse care, barn management, and rider needs — all in one place. With fast shipping, competitive prices, and a team that truly understands the demands of grooming, Corro makes it easier to get the supplies you need to keep horses happy, healthy, and performing at their best. Many of Corro’s employees have worked as professional grooms themselves, giving them firsthand insight into the dedication it takes to care for horses at the highest level. That’s why they are committed to supporting the people behind the scenes — because great horse care starts with great grooms.
Join us in celebrating the Corro HorseGroom of the Month February: Zoe Hatgi!
Behind the Scenes with a Top Groom: A Conversation with Zoe Hatgi
By: Angela Rauwolf of Rauwolf Marketing
As a lead groom for Ashlee Bond, I have the privilege of working with some of the best horses and riders in the world. It’s a role I take immense pride in, but it didn’t happen overnight. From my early days as a young rider to being thrown into the fast-paced world of FEI grooming, my journey has been anything but conventional. And now, as part of Ashlee’s team, I’m grateful to have found a place where I can grow and learn every day while being part of something truly special.
From Pony Club to High-Performance Grooming
Horses have always been my passion. I grew up horse-obsessed, even though no one in my family rode. At the age of 8, I convinced my parents to let me take riding lessons, and that’s when it all started. Eventually, we bought a farm, and I was able to get my hands dirty managing and caring for horses daily. My teenage years were filled with Pony Club, eventing and show jumping, and I quickly realized that I was happiest working with horses — whether riding, grooming or caring for them.
As I moved through my teenage years, I began riding for various barns, each offering its own learning experiences. I took jobs that allowed me to ride different horses and meet new people, which helped me build a network in the industry. My first significant break came when I was offered a position working with the Ilan Ferder’s team in Wellington, [Florida,] which was an intense crash course in high-level grooming. It was a tough learning curve, but it prepared me for what came next.
Joining Ashlee Bond’s Team: A Dream Come True
In September 2023, I had the opportunity to work for Ashlee Bond. Ashlee’s operation was much smaller when I started with only about 12 horses. Still, I had been following her career for years and knew how iconic she was in the sport. When the opportunity came up to work with her, I jumped. I started freelancing, but I never left after just a few months.
What I love most about working with Ashlee is her incredible leadership style. She’s involved with the horses, but she doesn’t micromanage. She trusts her team, which allows us to do our best work without feeling pressured. She’s such a calm, positive presence that makes all the difference. She’s always willing to answer questions and guide us, but she also gives us the space to develop our horsemanship. That perfect balance of guidance and independence has made this job so rewarding.
Learning the Ropes: How Past Experience Shapes My Approach
Before joining Ashlee’s team, I had experiences in many different segments of the equestrian world. From eventing to polo and everything in between, I learned valuable horse care and management lessons. For example, eventing taught me how to cool down a horse after a long cross-country course. You must be quick and efficient — pull the tack, keep the horse walking and immediately offer water. At the same time, I learned how to listen to the horse and adjust based on their needs. Not every horse is the same, and learning those subtle cues has helped me immensely in my role as a groom.
Every barn has its own brand of horsemanship, and I’ve found that it’s important to adapt and learn from everyone around you. At Ashlee’s barn, I’ve been able to combine everything I’ve learned and create my own approach to horse care. For example, Donnie [Donatello 141], one of Ashlee’s top horses, prefers to graze rather than go for a walk, so I’ve adjusted his routine accordingly. It’s about making sure each horse feels comfortable and happy while still meeting the demands of the sport.
The Road to Paris: Preparing for the Olympics
One of the most rewarding moments of my career came when Ashlee and Donnie headed to Paris for the Olympics. I stayed behind, managing the horses back in the U.S., but it was still an incredibly nerve-wracking experience. As a team, we made sure Donnie had everything he needed, from tack to grooming supplies so that Ashlee could focus on the competition. I remember checking in regularly and making sure everything was on track, even while she was overseas.
Donnie, as it turned out, was calm under pressure. He’s the kind of horse who thrives in those high-stakes moments. I think everyone on our team felt a mix of pride and excitement watching him jump at the Olympics. We were all gathered in the barn, watching the live stream and cheering him on. It was a truly special experience.
The Joy of Caring for Donnie
Donnie holds a special place in my heart. He’s not just a top-tier competitor; he’s also a very gentle, lovable horse. One of the best parts of my job is seeing him happy and healthy. He gets a lot of turnout and some treadmill time, but he also thrives on attention. His stall is in the corner of the barn, so he can see the parking lot, and every time someone walks in, he perks up. He’s always excited to see us, and he loves when we spend time with him. His happiness is a huge part of what makes him such an amazing competitor.
Tips for Aspiring Grooms
For anyone starting out in the grooming world, I have one key piece of advice: find someone who is willing to teach you. Ask questions and show genuine interest in learning. Grooms who are passionate about what they do are more than willing to share their knowledge. Don’t be afraid to ask a trusted professional for advice: your farrier, your vet or even your neighbors. This job is all about learning every day, and the more you can absorb, the better you’ll become.
The Changing Landscape of Grooming
I’m excited to see how the grooming community is evolving. Mental health, fair working conditions and work-life balance are becoming increasingly important in our industry. It’s vital that we recognize the role of grooms and ensure that everyone has the support they need to succeed. Having a team that values you makes a world of difference.
My Must-Have Grooming Gear
As a groom, I have a list of must-haves I always keep on hand. For one, cookies are essential for rewarding the horses and keeping them happy. I also always carry an extra set of reins, hole punch, gloves for my rider, sticky spray, vet wrap, a hoof pick and extra braiding bands. Small rubber bands are so versatile from fixing a mane at the ring or making extra keepers for bridles and breastplates — I’ve even used them for my own hair on occasion!
On the care side, I’m a fan of preventative maintenance. For bathing I love white vinegar. It’s my go-to for giving the horses a good rinse and clarifying the skin without stripping the oils with soap. It’s a natural, effective way to keep their coats clean and shiny. And, of course, I always make sure to have a hoof pick — no one wants to find debris in a horse’s hoof mid-ride!
Shop Zoe’s Must-Haves
Click here to read about the first Corro HorseGroom of the Month (January 2025): Shay Stenchever.
Corro is an e-commerce platform dedicated to making it easier for equestrians, especially grooms, to get the supplies they need. Founded by horse owners, Corro offers a curated selection of top-quality horse care products, tack and barn essentials, including grooming tools, shampoos and everyday must-haves. With transparent pricing, fast shipping, autoship options and superior customer service, Corro provides a seamless and reliable shopping experience. Many of Corro’s team members have worked as professional grooms, so they understand the demands of the job and are committed to supporting the people behind the scenes. Visit corroshop.com to stock up on the essentials that keep horses looking and feeling their best.
