The BarnManager Q&A With: Abigail Fulmer
The BarnManager Q&A With:
Abigail Fulmer, Head Groom/Barn Manager for Lynn Symansky Equestrian, located in Middleburg, VA
Abigail Fulmer and Lynn Symansky at the Ocala Jockey Club International Three-Day Event.
What are important items that are always in your ring bag?
In my ring bag, I always have a hoof pick, rubber bands, pins, and a leather hole punch.
What is the most helpful habit that you practice at the barn?
I always make a to-do list. When you work in a fast-paced performance barn, you are always having to multitask and end up doing several jobs at once, so it is very easy to overlook or forget to do something. This is why I always make a list for myself, either on the whiteboard or I make a note in my phone. This helps me make sure that everything gets done in the most efficient way possible and that I do not forget anything.
(Did you know? BarnManager’s app has a helpful list feature so you can make your daily to-do lists with your team at the barn!)
How do you foster a great team environment in your business?
Communication. In my experience, most tension and struggles between people working together come from a lack of communication. For this reason, I think effective communication should be a priority in a barn.
Abigail Fulmer enjoying some downtime at a horse show.
What’s your best tip or hack for grooming and horse care? Where did you learn it?
For horses with dry skin or sensitive skin, apple cider vinegar is your best friend. Dilute it in a bit of warm water and it will work wonders on hives or dry skin. I learned this trick from Lynn’s previous groom that I had the pleasure of overlapping with for a few months as I was getting started in the business.
What is your favorite equestrian competition and why?
My favorite event so far has been Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event. It is such a beautiful facility and a hub for people from all over the world to come together to compete and enjoy the sport.
If you were a horse, what would you be and why?
I would be a Shetland pony because even though I may be tiny I can still hold my own with the massive warmbloods in our program!
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