GROOMS are an integral part of the horse racing industry.

Grooms spend more time with horses than any other professional engaged with thoroughbreds. They work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so when they succeed they deserve to be celebrated.

Steven Smith is one of those grooms who is enjoying the moment. Smith, who presently works at Anthony Nunes’ stables, won his first groom title last year. He won 28 races to achieve this milestone.

Smith’s success can be attributed to his continued hard work and dedication to his profession.

“I am very proud of myself as this is my first time winning the groom championships. This is the result of hard work and dedication,” Smith told Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.

“I have been in the game from a tender age and, having had many experiences, I got to understand that you will never achieve anything in this industry without hard work and dedication.

“You have to put in as much to get out as much, and I have put in the work so I am happy for the rewards. My father was a champion groom as well so I just took up the trend and followed in his footsteps,” he added.

Smith stated that his objective for 2024 is to defend his title, and he is willing to put in the extra effort to attain further success.

Smith is already leading the standings in 2024 with seven winners, one ahead of Garth Pennant who has won six races. Nevis Swaby and Mendel Williams are tied for third place with three wins each.

“I am already in the lead for 2024 and just want to maintain it. It is a long way to go but I am up for the task. I just want to thank my trainer [Anthony Nunes] for the support over the years as well as the owners and fellow grooms,” he said.

Smith stated that he has groomed many exceptional racehorses thus far in his career.

“I have groomed so many good horses since I was here, however my favourite horse was a horse by the name of
Above and Beyond. She won the 1000 Guineas and Jamaica Oaks before she got injured.

“You have horses like Sea Devil, Saragosa, and Southern Cruise, among many others, but I love Above and Beyond,” Smith ended.