Leading up to the 2022 edition of National Caretaker Appreciation Day events taking place the week of Aug. 29 – Sept. 5, Standardbred Canada will profile caretakers from across the country in our Faces of Racing series. This feature is on Robyn Bax, employed by Bax Stables.

Robyn Bax currently works at Bax Stables while continuing her education in osteopathy. Her involvement with Standardbreds began at a very young age and along with any new journey of hers, one thing that was always constant was her love and care for Standardbreds. “I got into the industry early on in my life; my dad and my brother trained horses, so I’ve been involved throughout my life.”

With being introduced to the industry by her family, it was very clear to Robyn who her greatest role models were: her dad, mom and brother. “My dad and my mom have approached it with a great work ethic and that’s something that I really want to embody in myself.” Robyn then continued to elaborate on other influences of hers, that being her brother. “He has been the one who has taught me how to jog horses, train horses and told me about equipment.”

With Robyn's educational background in osteopathy, she is now able to apply her skilled knowledge as an osteopath to her work as a caretaker. It’s a wonderful thing for Robyn to be able to join two very special parts of her life. “I am able to combine my passion of osteopathy and animal care.” 

When asked about her favourite part of being a caretaker, Robyn went on to mention how rewarding it is to see a horse that she has cared for go on and try its hardest. “After the racing, it’s nice to see how they did and if they improved…even if they didn’t win, it’s a great feeling.”

To be a caretaker, it takes dedication and a special kind of person. Robyn’s advice to those entering the industry is to remain optimistic and remember why you do what you do. “The goal of the groom is to not necessarily win a race, but to keep that horse happy and healthy.

“I’m really grateful to wake up every day and not only spend time with the horses, but with my family as well,” explained Robyn. The harness racing industry is not only appreciative of Robyn for being a caretaker and taking on the greatest of tasks, but we are thankful for her background in osteopathy and how she has been able to apply it to her work and make her an even better groom.

Join us in showing our appreciation for the unsung heroes of our industry and celebrate National Caretaker Appreciation Day at one of the 12 participating racetracks!