Grove City, OH — Gina DiMatteo of Northfield, Ohio, has been named the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association Outstanding Groom for 2023.

Gina DiMatteo has been named the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association Outstanding Groom for 2023. Provided photo.

DiMatteo works for and was nominated by trainer Bill Rhoades.

Rhoades says DiMatteo is selfless when it comes to the needs of the horses.

“She tends to every horse’s needs that she is in contact with on an individual basis,” said Rhoades. “If every trainer was lucky enough to have someone half as hard-working, caring, and dedicated as Gina, this business would be a whole lot easier.”

DiMatteo says the best part of her job is being around the horses.

“It is work, but it is relaxing. The horses bring a smile to my face every day with the things they do.”

DiMatteo has been a groom for about 37 years and says the horses are addicting: “They get into your blood, and you’re done.”

DiMatteo will be honored at the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association annual awards banquet on Jan. 13 at the Marriott Columbus OSU in Columbus, Ohio.