My BE Life: Francesca Gorni

We caught up with Francesca Gorni, event rider and groom for Tom McEwen at the Tokyo Olympic Games, to find out about her favourite moments.

My first riding memory

When I was three, we used to take the dogs walking in Epping Forest and I would always see the horses out hacking. My parents took me for a sit on a pony and that was it – I went back regularly afterwards!

My proudest career achievement

Grooming for Toledo and Tom McEwen at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Every dream came true during the lead-up to and at the Games themselves. I feel hugely privileged and grateful for the experience that will last a lifetime.

My proudest personal achievement

Completing the London Marathon this year in 4hrs 45, raising £1,500 for a cancer charity (photo, top).

My most challenging moment

The packing for the Olympics. My list was so long and there was a lot of packing and repacking! I’m delighted that nothing important was left behind.

The hardest thing about my career…

The hardest thing has to be the lack of time outside of work, so I have to get really good at managing the time I have available. I have amazing friends and family who are brilliant at making a social life possible, even when it’s hard.

… and the best

Being based on such a beautiful estate and working with the most amazing horses, from young four-year-olds who are just learning the ropes to the legends such as Toledo.