The International Grooms Association (IGA) has launched the first dedicated anti-doping education course created specifically for grooms.
IGA research among elite competition grooms found that 80% had never received any formal anti-doping education, and many of those who had reported low confidence in their understanding of Clean Sport protocols.
Developed with the support and content approval of the FEI, International Groom Clean (IGC) provides accessible, practical online education to help grooms understand and navigate FEI Clean Sport requirements.
To encourage participation, the FEI will refund the IGA membership fee required to access the bespoke education, meaning grooms can gain their initial International Groom Clean certification at no cost. However, IGC must be completed within 14 days of joining to gain the membership fee refund.
Lucy Katan, Executive Director of the International Grooms Association, said, “Our research among elite competition grooms revealed a concerning lack of confidence in understanding anti-doping protocols. We also know that accidental contamination by grooms has resulted in anti-doping rule violations in FEI horses.
“There is a clear need to provide anti-doping education designed specifically for grooms working at all levels. Completing IGC gives grooms, their riders and owners confidence that they understand their responsibilities and know how to work within FEI Clean Sport regulations.
“We are hugely grateful to the Jumping Owners Club and our other generous donors, whose support has made this important project possible.”
Áine Power, FEI Executive Director of Sport & Games said, “We were proud to support the IGA in developing International Groom Clean. International horse sport depends on the dedication, professionalism and expertise of grooms, and providing them with user friendly, high-quality educational resources benefits everyone involved in the sport.
“We hope all grooms working with FEI horses, whether at FEI Events or at home, will take this opportunity to expand their knowledge and achieve their International Groom Clean certification.”
The IGA and FEI encourage all grooms who will be working at the upcoming World Championships to take their IGC course, which is available to IGA members via the IGA website and is hosted on the FEI Campus in English. The course will shortly be available in French, Spanish and German. Upon successful completion, participants will receive an official certificate.
About the International Grooms Association (IGA)
- The IGA was formed at the request of the FEI and is the professional body and representative voice for grooms working in international horse sport.
- The IGA exists to support members throughout their career as a groom, providing representation, advice and education. The IGA works collaboratively with the FEI and show organisers to address issues that affect grooms.
- All grooms who currently work, or aspire to work, with FEI level horses at home or at shows can join the IGA.
- Annual membership is just 15 euros/15 US$ – charged in local currency.
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