Competing during the winter season

Winter is obviously a great time for established show horses to have a rest after a busy season and it’s also a great opportunity to give younger horses and ponies a few outings to give them some experience. Continuing to work through the winter months may also give you a head start against your competition when spring shows arrive!

Just because it’s the winter season, it doesn’t mean you can take your eye off the ball and if you have had problems during the busy summer season, winter can be the time to get them sorted out. This may be in presentation or it may be showmanship or producing the perfect show – winter is the time to practice, practice, practice!

Lots of Home Producers talk about how hard it is to compete against the Professional Producers. When it comes down to it, the Producers do the job 24/7, so it’s often about time, practice and experience and Home Producers often don’t have as much time to do this. Bear this in mind and plan your training regime so that you utilise the winter months to perfect your skills and develop your experience. The Producers aren’t successful because they pull a pony out of a field a week before a big show, they are working through the winter months and have a plan in place for each animal on their yard – try to do the same thing and really plan your ‘campaign.’

Looking after a show horse during the colder season is not necessarily a difficult task, but it is harder work than in the summer months and being organised and having a routine is very important. It's actually more difficult this year, we think, because the weather has been so unsettled and at the moment it almost feels like spring has sprung - but we are always asking ourselves will it be better weather or worse next week? That's the conundrum!

We’ve put together the following guidelines to help you…...

Coat Care

If you are showing throughout the winter or want to be prepared for early qualifiers, make sure your horse is well rugged up throughout the colder months. This is absolutely essential if you want to get a head start on the season with the coat looking and feeling healthy. The importance of this cannot be underestimated, careful rugging will reap benefits when it comes to ‘show time.’

If you are having a short break, in order for your horse or pony to be looking great for those early qualifiers, you will need to clip in plenty of time for the coat to come through. You will know how the coat grows and at what speed, so plan your clipping regime bearing this in mind balanced against the dates of your first shows or events.

A few minutes additional vigorous grooming each week can reap rewards during the winter months and, once again, it can give you a head start when it comes to those early classes! Brushing the coat with a medium body brush gets the juices flowing – both for you and your horse or pony – as it stimulates the blood circulation and produces natural oils in the coat which will give a healthy appearance.

Preserving the Mane and Tail

Rug Rubs are really unsightly and take ages to put right, especially if there is a really obvious section of the mane that has rubbed out! My personal preference is to avoid rugs with neck covers as we get loads of enquiries about what products to use to restore manes after they have been damaged where they have been rubbed by neck covers. Neck covers are a relatively new addition to the wardrobe and, in my experience, often can cause rubbing and damage to the mane.

There are a couple of products that I highly recommend for use during the winter months to help protect and preserve the mane and tail.

Detangle and Shine

The first is Detangle and Shine. If you are turning out, this is a product that can prevent the mane and tail from getting too knotty and also acts as a barrier and reduces the amount of mud sticking to the hair which can subsequently cause problems. A quick spritz of Detangle and Shine 2 – 3 times a week, then a run through the hair with your fingers can be really beneficial to prevent tangling and will help preserve the hair as well as be an aid to grooming.

Moisturise and Condition

The second product is Moisturise and Condition. This is a great product all through the year but is particularly beneficial in the winter months when the hair can become dry and brittle in the cold and damp air. Once again, use this product a couple of times a week as a leave-on conditioner and run your fingers through the hair once sprayed on. You will start to see and feel the benefits of this product very quickly. It can also be used on feather or on rubbed sections of the coat if you have any.

Damaged Manes and Tails

Mane and Tail Builder

We receive lots of calls in to the office about damaged manes and tails – anything from a large section of mane being lost due to rubbing from neck covers to tails being eaten by goats! One of our most popular products is Mane and Tail Builder which is from the Heritage Collection. The Heritage Collection was launched for Natives and Traditionals, but this is a product that can be used on all hair types. Mane and Tail Builder helps to promote hair growth and has proved very popular and very effective.

Mane and Tail Builder can be used on rug rubs, problem skin and damaged sections of the mane, tail and coat. It is a leave-on product and should be used daily for the first 4 – 7 days then can be used every 2 – 3 days after that. Massage the oil on to the skin / hair follicle, work it in to the skin and leave it on.

Mane and Tail Builder smells quite ‘woodsmokey.’ It is quite a strong fragrance and some people love it, whilst others don’t – but it does work really well! You should start to see the benefits of this product within a couple of weeks and if you need to accelerate growth you can use it daily.

Bathing

Stain Remover Spray

Bathing can be a problem throughout the winter months. Unfortunately, we don’t all have the luxury of a portable hot shower, so if you need to shampoo, this should be planned for a warm(ish) dry day where you can get your horse thoroughly dried off before stabling.

Instead of giving a full bath, you could also consider giving ‘spot baths’ to problem areas or to using Stain Remover Spray to specific areas. If you need to wash socks or feathers, make sure you really dry off the legs thoroughly and even use a hair dryer if you have the facilities to do so!

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us on info@supremeproducts.co.uk as we really enjoy hearing from you. We also love to see your pictures, so please visit our Facebook page and post them on our wall, making sure you tell us all about you and your horse or pony.

Our office number is not just for people wanting to buy products – if you have a question or would like some advice on how best to use our products or what would be the best product to use in certain situations, then please call us on 01377 229050 – we will be happy to help where we can!

Best wishes,

Sarah

Kick Start your Showing Season with Active Rider Camp - South View EC, Cheshire

South View has great facilities , this event is suitable for all - Riding Club, County and Novice horses and riders.

* Arrive on the Thurs from 4pm, indoor school is available for free use till 7pm
... * 2 x ridden lessons per day
* Evening Performance practice (optional)
* Optional Workshops
* Optional 1-1's

Coaches:

* Tracey Milward (video judge)
* Sarah Harrison
* Jo Callwood Winner HOYS 2010 WH! Will be our jump coach
* Victoria Hesford
* Sarah Challinor (HOYS & Olympia winner 2010)
* Wayne Thorneycroft (ride judge)

Supreme Products Demos at Camp, Topspec 1-1's, (portable weigh bridge!), Equiscan demo, Vet workshop, Naf sessions, Cortlea Numnahs, Epona 1-1's, Equine Physio on site, Horse Bit Trader on site & many more - you will be shattered!

Sold out with a wait list in 2010 - only 8 places left

£220 PER HORSE ALL INCLUSIVE

http://www.activerider.co.uk/camp_details.php?id=146

or contact Jane on 07736 872307 jane@activerider.co.uk 

Team SUPREME PRODUCTS® on a Roll at HOYS

Team Supreme Products riders and producers continued their winning ways on the second day of the Horse of the Year Show with championships going to Team Hollings, Simon Charlesworth of the Stanley Grange Show Team and Sarah Challinor.

Having already taken the Mace Group Mountain and Moorland Pony of the Year on the first day, Sarah’s success with the Dartmoor stallion, Pumphill Buckthorn continued when heading the Thistledown Mountain & Moorland Working Hunter Pony of the Year after winning the ponies not exceeding 122cm section earlier in the day.

Following a very successful season, the large hack, Royal Angel, ridden by Michaela Wood and produced by Team Hollings looked a picture.

Winning his section, Royal Angel then went on to take the Topham Barnes Hack of the Year Championship in another prestigious finale.

To round off an amazing day, Simon Charlesworth and the Stanley Grange Show Team then made it through to the evening performance with Mr and Mrs Parkin’s Catwalk after winning the Cuddy Supreme In-Hand Horse Championship.

Against his father Alan, winner of the pony section with Scallywag II, Simon and the lovely bay mare looked magnificent under the spotlight, shining to perfection and continuing to wow the judges to take to the overall Cuddy In-Hand Championship.

Meet the Team- Nicola Howarth

Here we meet Nicola Howarth, part-time groom for Team Hollings and a fan of all things showing!


1. How long have you ridden and what disciplines do you compete in?

I’ve been riding for 16 years, mainly showing.

2. What is your favourite TV programme?

America’s Next Top Model, great viewing on a Monday evening.

3. Do you have any brothers or sisters?

I have a younger brother, Ben aged 12.

4. What is your favourite food?

Curry, it’s always been a favourite.

5. Where is your favourite holiday destination?

Italy, it is beautiful.

6. Who is your favourite horse or pony on the yard and why?

Archie an Intermediate Show Hunter, known as Whitaker’s Count in the ring.

7. What is your favourite event?

HOYS

8. What is your favourite item from the Supreme Products Professional Collection?

Supreme Products Glistening Oil- it is a fantastic show ring presentation product and really enhances the horse's features.

9. Do you have a top tip for us?

Don’t put too much horse make-up around the eyes, you create a much better effect by using it sparingly.

10. Do you have any family pets?

Horses, dogs and a cat.

11. What music do you currently listen to?

R ‘n’ B

12. What was the last film you watched at the cinema?

Twilight

13. If you could have an hour’s conversation with anyone who would it be and why?

Maria Carey.

14. When you have time to yourself, how do you like to spend it?

I enjoy going in to town with friends.

15. If you were given £1million, what would you spend it on?

I would buy more horses.

16. What is the most expensive thing you have ever bought?

My horse, Jack a Welsh Section C.

17. If you could be anyone else for the day who would it be?

Maria Carey, I am a huge fan.

Supreme Win For Stanley Grange Show Team

SUPREME PRODUCTS® sponsored Stanley Grange Show Team were in top form at the Cherif Championships taking the Dalton Stud In Hand Championship.

The six-year-old stallion Stanley Grange Cocksure took the title along with the £500 prize in these new classes marked to celebrate the 21st Anniversary.

Delighting the judges, the stallion was foot perfect and was beautifully shown, looking bright and sharp but very well behaved. In the evening performance he came back in great form and showed extra sparkle with his glistening coat and wonderful movement.

Said Jerome Harforth: “We are extremely pleased; we haven’t shown him very much at all. The last outing he had was in 2006, when he was reserve in the Cuddy at the Royal Welsh.”

Stanley Grange Cocksure has been busy making a name for himself at stud. His first offspring are now three-year-olds and he also has some very good stock in Australia.

Supreme Products sponsored show pony producer Katy Carter has also invested in one of his first foals to produce for her daughter, Poppy.

Stanley Grange Show Team Hit Top Form at Royal Highland

The Supreme Products™ sponsored Stanley Grange Show Team was in winning form at the Royal Highland show.

Handler Simon Charlesworth was certainly the one to watch in the Cuddy Supreme In Hand Championship.

After a superb few days, Simon had two through having qualified the riding pony in-hand champion, Moluccas Tarragon Tiger, and the hunter breeding champion, Carrhouse Boston Legal.

Simon chose to handle the riding pony in the championship for the Cuddy judging.

Owned by Sue Grimshaw and produced by Jerome Harforth he looked in superb condition.

By Willowcroft Regal Bronze, Moluccas Tarragon Tiger headed the Cuddy championship much to everyone’s delight.

Said Simon: “He was fantastic in the busy main arena. He has never seen anything like that before, he’s only a yearling, but he went in, stood like a rock and moved well when he was asked to.

“He is a great colour to flash up with quarter marks and sharks teeth, and is just so elegant, he really does catch the eye.”

Sarah Walker Qualifies for HOYS- Robert Home from Hospital

Sarah Walker took up the reins at Cheshire County and North of England Summer with husband Robert currently sidelined but now home from hospital.

At Cheshire County Sarah rode Lucy Smith-Crallan’s Holtess D-Day to win the Novice Riding Horse class to everyone’s delight.

In the HOYS qualifiers, Sarah’s winning form continued with Jill Day’s Small Riding Horse, Party Time heading his class, before Lucy Smith-Crallan’s Large Riding Horse, Tranquil Heights claimed the runner-up spot in his section, both horses gaining their tickets to Birmingham in October.

At the North of England Summer Show at Arena UK, Sarah rode Camilla Neame’s young cob, Starry Nights to head the Novice Cob class and took second in the Maxi-Cob with Tank Top owned by Yorkie Jobling-Purser.

The team at Supreme Products wish Robert well on the road to recovery and have their fingers crossed Sarah’s superb form continues.

Meet the Team – Nigel, Penny, Stuart and Alexandra Hollings

Based in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire, Team Hollings have been at the top of their game for more than 40 years.

The Team comprises of brothers Nigel and Stuart, Nigel’s wife Penny and their daughter Alexandra. Between them they have won many of the top accolades in the showing world.

10 things you didn’t know about Team Hollings:

Penny’s favourite indulgence is champagne

Stuart is a regular Horse & Hound columnist

Penny’s most memorable horse was Dutch Dame

Nigel is an NPTC City & Guilds Approved Assessor - Certificate of Competance Transport of Animals (Horses Cattle & Sheep) short and long journey for Drivers, Attendants & Grooms.

The horse Penny would have most liked to own is the late Blue Hors Matine

Stuart and Nigel have written several books about showing and ring craft.

Penny’s biggest no-no in the ring is glitter

Penny’s proudest moment was watching her daughter Alexandra at the Horse of the Year Show

The team have 28 stables at the yard

Penny has lots of superstitions – usually lucky clothes

Top foot care tip; “The old saying ‘no foot, no horse’ is as true today as it has ever been” says Nigel Hollings of Team Hollings. Animals competing from the Team Hollings stables always have their frogs sprayed daily with Supreme Products Foot Care Spray from the Horse Care range. “It is easy to use, very reasonably priced and most importantly it works wonders and keeps foot rot at bay!”

Meet The Supreme Products Team – Sarah Emmerson

Peter, Claire and Sarah Emmerson, well known for producing lead rein and first ridden ponies, have a top class team of ponies to produce for the season and are huge supporters of the Supreme Products Professional Collection recognising the great help they provide when it comes to show preparation and show ring turnout.

10 things you never know about the Sarah Emmerson:

Her favourite TV Programme is Waterloo Road

Her favourite meal is Spagetti Bolognaise

A horse she would like to own is Edward Gal’s Moorlands Totilas

Her biggest annoyance with competitor turnout is visible socks

Her competition superstition is that she must hold the lead rein in a particular manner

Her most memorable pony was a mare called Cosford Promise

She has a twin brother who lives in Australia

Her personal highpoint is the satisfaction she gains from teaching children and adults and helping them succeed in the show ring.

She is a qualified primary school teacher

She has an 18-year-old Fylde saddle that has been down the spotlight many times with many different ponies.

Finishing Tails Tip: An absolute ‘must’ for the grooming box at shows is Supreme Products Sparkle. It has the ability to transform a normal, boring tail into a spectacular tail, adds glamour to a pony in seconds and looks great under artificial lights or on a sunny day. It also acts as a detangler.

Meet the Supreme Products Team- Katy Carter

Katy Carter produces a wide range of ponies from lead rein’s to intermediates, with great success, from her Stoke-on-Trent yard. Her daughter Poppy is well known in the show ring and is busy following in Katy’s footsteps.

Q&A with Katy Carter:

Where are you based?

Wetley Rocks, Stoke on Trent in Staffordshire

What led you to showing and ultimately to be a professional producer?

I started out at the local riding club competing in gymkhanas and progressed from there. My sister, Joanne, and I branched out to small BSPS shows when we got a little older. Joanne was the braver rider but gave up at 16 to work in a bank, however she has remained in showing and is a well respected judge.

I had a successful career in the 80’s riding some lovely ponies including Groundhills Amazing Grace who I rode for Mr Champion the owner and producer Alan Bullock who was also a great horseman. Alan’s family were like my second family in 1987. I had some great successes that year, I won and went show pony champion at HOYS. It was my dream come true, a day I will never forget.

Tell us about your family:

My partner Jason is a farrier and I have three children Harry 10, Poppy 8, and Harvey 1.

What type of animals do you produce and show?

I produce show ponies, mountain and moorlands, show hunter ponies and intermediates.

What is your biggest and/or proudest achievement to date?

My proudest would have to be leading my daughter Poppy at HOYS in 2008 to take the Supreme Pony title, and again in 2009 to take the Dick Saunders Supreme at the Royal International.

Do you have any show ring superstitions or show ring rituals?

I do have a mouse tin that has a little plastic mouse and a piece of cheese in (not real!) I had it at HOYS in 1987 and in my pocket when I won at Olympia. Poppy had it in her pocket at HOYS and RIHS.

If you were not involved with horses, what would you like to be?

I love fashion so I think it would be fun to work in, also I would love to run a family restaurant, however Jason, laughs at this because I am a terrible cook. He would have to be the chef and I would be the waitress.

What tip could you give to newcomers to showing?

Watch, learn and be critical of yourself, have an open mind and never stop listening to what people say.

Laying the Coat Tip: An essential part of our show preparation is using the Supreme Products Body Wraps and Lycra Mix Hoods. I always have total confidence that the coats will be laid and conditioned, that plaits will be protected and that ponies are pristine when stabled or travelling to shows when I use these garments.

Supreme Team Triumphant at North of England Spring Show

THE SUPREME PRODUCTS™ show team were in all-conquering form at the North of England Spring Show, Osbaldeston.

The show started with a host of wins and championships for Robert Walker who was unstoppable on his team of established and up and coming horses.

The charismatic bay gelding Ballard Bouncer, owned by Jill Day, started the proceedings well by winning the Novice Lightweight Hunter, before going on to take the Novice Hunter Championship.

His winning ways didn’t stop there as Robert then went on to head the Open Lightweight Hunter class with the same horse, who eventually took the Open Hunter Championship with Robert’s wife, Sarah, on board.

Robert chose to ride his Open Heavyweight winner Manton in the championship and took the reserve spot behind Sarah.

In the Riding Horse classes the following day Robert took the honours in the Novice Riding Horse Class with Holtess D-Day before the Large Riding Horse, Tranquil Heights, won his class and then went on to take the Riding Horse Championship.

The Small Hack, Southills Hocus Pocus took the Reserve Championship for owner Lucy Smith-Crallan while the Maxi Cob, Super Sonic also took home a Reserve Championship award. The Stanley Grange Show Team were also in top form with Danielle Purves and Holtess Wise & Wonderful winning the Novice Hack class and taking Reserve Novice Champion.

In the pony classes Julie Bankier and Little Brown Sugar ran out the winners in 128cm Show Pony section. Poppy Carter from the Katy Carter Show Team continued with the Supreme Team’s winning ways. Poppy and the 12hh Show Hunter Pony, Woodend Matilda, first took the honours in their section before going on to become Champion Open Show Hunter Pony.

To add to their collection of ribbons, Poppy also headed the Heritage Mountain & Moorland First Ridden, with the four-year-old palomino, Shamrock Lake Shirley Temple, a win which took them through to the Mini Mountain & Moorland Championship which they duly won to round off a very successful day.

Ponies from Staffordshire-based Gill Thompson’s yard were also in great form. Mrs Hinchcliffe’s Roseberry Highland Fling and Charlotte Thompson won the Small Intermediate Show Riding Type before going on to finish Reserve Intermediate Champion.

While in the Show Hunter Pony section it was another triumph with young Daisy Cambray and Parkhill Renaldo capturing the exceeding 133cms not exceeding 148cms section. For Emmersons Show Team, North of England Spring Show continued their great start to the season.

Jo Prenderdest’s Chaseford Aloof and Ella Raynard headed up the Mini Show Pony Championship much to everyone’s delight.

Say’s Sarah Turnbull of Supreme Products “I’m thrilled at the run of results over the weekend, they all did brilliantly well. The horses and ponies looked absolutely immaculate and the team really did us proud.”

Interview with Supreme Products Sponsored Show Rider, Robert Walker

A well-established British expert in the field of top quality products for the show ring, Supreme Products are proud of their Yorkshire roots.

Keen to support talent in the area Supreme Products are delighted to sponsor show rider Robert Walker.

Born and bred in Yorkshire, Robert is now based in Cheshire, and is a very well respected figure within the sport and extremely proud of his Yorkshire heritage and is known for his down to earth attitude and Yorkshire charm.

How long have you been riding?

RW: I was brought up around horses and my earliest memories are of my dad Tony running a breaking yard in East Yorkshire. I can’t remember exactly when I started riding, I was too young!

What was your first pony called?

RW: Roly was my first real fun pony.

Did you show ponies as a child?

RW: Yes I used to attend the local gymkhanas around East Yorkshire and then progressed to my local county shows.

What made you settle on a career in showing horses?

RW: I have always enjoyed producing young horses and watching them develop and improve, it is the most satisfying part of the job. It seemed only natural to take up showing.

What type of horses do you have on your yard?

RW: We have Show Hunters, Show Cobs, Riding Horses and Hacks.

Tell us about any really memorable horses?

RW: You would expect my most memorable horse to be a show horse, but it is in fact Fury, my fantastic hunter.

An ex Grade A show jumper, as a youngster Fury competed internationally but luckily for me he jacked it.I took him hunting and it completely rejuvenated his passion for life. I have never had a better hunt horse and have some fantastic days out hunting on him. I retired him this season aged 16.

Which showing classes do you enjoy the most and why?

RW: That’s a really hard question. I love showing every horse in their appropriate class so I don’t have a particular favourite, but because of my hunting background I must say I thoroughly enjoy the Show Hunter classes.

What has been your best showing moment?

RW: Winning the Hunter Championship at the Great Yorkshire Show for the first time on Cool Green Star, a fantastic bay middleweight.

What has been your worst showing moment?

RW: When I was 17 years old I had a very good Small Hunter called Double Coin, we qualified for the Royal International and we were pulled in top of the line initially, and then moved down to third in the final line up. No one knew why, the horse went perfectly and there was no explanation for the final placing.

In hindsight this was one of the best days in my career, although I was disappointed at the time, so many people thought I should have won and after that show people started to send me horses to produce.

What do you look for in your horses when you buy them?

RW: It is important that when buying a horse you look at the overall package and suitability. I do insist that any horse I buy has exceptionally good limbs.

Which is your favourite show?

RW: Definitely the Great Yorkshire Show! The atmosphere is unlike any other and I feel it brings me back to my Yorkshire roots.

Is there a showing goal that you are still to achieve?

RW: I have won every championship around the country, bar the Hunter Championship at Horse of the Year Show.

What hobbies do you enjoy?

RW: Hunting it is my favourite past time. I am a joint master of the Cheshire Hunt. I think my love of hunting means that I thoroughly enjoy the show hunter classes and prefer an old fashioned stamp of hunter.

What is your favourite food?

RW: A traditional beef roast dinner with Yorkshire Puddings!

What is your favourite TV programme?

RW: When I have time to sit and watch TV, I like to watch Sky Sports News.

Which rider has inspired you?

RW: Jockey, Tony McCoy

Which top horse do you most admire?

RW: Miners Frolic. Not only does this horse have oodles of ability but he oozes pure quality.

Do you have any favourite show ring products?

RW: Supreme Products has an amazing range of products that really help my team achieve a superior look when in the show ring. One of my particular favourites is Supreme Leg and Body Whitener, a real ‘must have’ product when trying to keep those legs white and bright!

The Supreme Products Guide to Fitting a Hood Correctly

Supreme Products are known for being the leaders in equine preparation products, and are also proud to be able to offer an elite range of garments from hoods to body wraps that can help you achieve your goal.

Whether you are looking to keep your horses coat fine and sleek, protect from rug rubs or trying to avoid clipping during the winter, Supreme Products has garments to help tackle all these issues.

Many horse owners turn to using hoods throughout the winter or to keep coats gleaming before shows but have you ever stopped to think whether you are using the hood correctly, ensuring optimum comfort for your horse and putting it on in the simplest way?

Here Supreme Products offer valuable advice on how to fit a Supreme Products Hood.

STEP 1

Gather the hood in to both hands; make sure you are holding all excess material. Begin by rolling the hood over the nose, up over the face and head. Users should find this easy, the finest Italian lycra mix has been used to make the hoods, creating a non restrictive and manoeuvrable garment easy for putting on a horse with its’ four way stretch.

STEP 2

To ensure optimum comfort align the ears and eyes into place straight away. Supreme Products have spent a great deal of time researching and developing a garment with the right size eye and ear holes. This means your horse and pony will remain comfortable, without risk of the material rubbing the eyes or restricting ear movement if fitted correctly.

STEP 3

Once over the head roll the hood down the rest of the neck, taking care to lay the mane flat and to the correct side of the horse. Supreme Products Hoods are great for taming unruly manes and are ideal for setting them on the correct side. If you plait, plait the night before and the Supreme Products hood will help keep the plaits laid and in pristine condition.

STEP 4

All Supreme Products Hoods fit over the rug on the horse. This is to ensure your horse has complete freedom of movement in the stable. When tucked under rugs some other hoods can restrict movement, and problems such as slipping hoods can occur – which is why Supreme Products design is to be fitted on top of the rug.

When securing the hood, start at the front end of the horse. A flexible loop forms part of the hood and this can be threaded through the breast strap of your rug. Two further loops are provided at either side of the horse and have been designed so that a surcingle can hold them in place.

STEP 5

The Supreme Products Hood correctly fitted and in place.

How do I Know if my Hood Fits?

All Supreme Products Hoods have been sized in the easiest way for you to ensure a correct match with your horse. Sized in hands from Mini to 17.2hh the Supreme Product Hoods should be close fitting, but not tight and should provide freedom of movement. These hoods and garments have been proven to enhance the quality of the horse’s coat.

Sizing is based on Riding Pony or Horse type, so if you have a native or heavier ‘type’ then it is necessary to increase the hood or garment to the next hand size.

The best way to tell if your hood fits the horse correctly is by placing the horse’s head in an upright position. Whilst in this position the hood should show ripples down over the neck:

This excess material means that your horse has plenty of stretch and movement,
making it comfortable and free to move in.

If the hood is tight to the skin or the stitching is taught – then the hood does not fit correctly, and your horse will not benefit from everything the Supreme Products Hood has to offer.

Supreme Products has a wide range of hoods available in large selection of colours and materials. Sizes from Mini and Foal to 17.2hh. RRP £30 - £50.

For further information contact Supreme Products on 01377 217150 or visit
www.supremeproducts.co.uk.

Supreme Products- New Tail Bag

New for 2010 is the Supreme Products Tail Bag.

Waterproof, lightweight and roomy, the Supreme Products Tail Bag will protect the tail from stains in the field, stable, travelling and give protection against wind, rain and sun damage.

The tail bag is fantastic for use for shows and when travelling. Place the clean, try tail in to the bag and secure the ties at the bottom of the dock then bandage up the tail over the ties to keep securely in place.

Great for Natives and all animals with a lot of tail to preserve and keep clean.

Available in sizes 20” and 24”, the Tail Bag costs £12.50 and £14.50 respectively.

Supreme Products Hoods & Garments – for a superior fit and finish

For further information call Supreme Products on 01377 229050 or visit the Supreme Products website, also available at stockists nationwide.

The Use of Equestrian Garments for Show Ring Success

One of the key elements to keeping a coat looking in great condition throughout the year is good rugging. A horse must be kept warm throughout the winter to encourage the growth of a fine summer coat. The use of garments also enhances the quality of the coat so you can wow the judges this summer.

Body Wrap and Hoods

A Supreme Products Body Wrap should be your first choice when it comes to choosing your horse’s under rug. This garment is truly fantastic at keeping coats in tip top condition. With a belly flap and leg straps, the body wrap does not move and provides a great rugging accessory for your horse.

In the cold winter months, the Body Wrap can be compared to a second skin providing that all important layer to keep your horse or pony warm and encourage the summer coat to grow. During the warm summer months the body wrap is ideal when it comes to maintaining the perfect coat without creating discomfort which stems from over-rugging during warm nights.

For early starts the Body Wrap is the ultimate garment in competition preparation. Not only does the Body Wrap keep your horse’s coat sleek and shiny, it also helps to keep them clean and protects plaits created the day before.

A close relative of the Body Wrap is the Supreme Products Rug Wrap. Available in both Lycra Mix or Fleece, this garment covers the rug area and secures under the belly. It will protect the coat, chest, withers and shoulder area from rug rubs and will lay the coat keeping it in pristine condition.

Supreme Products Hoods are also great when it comes to preparing for a show. Hoods must be fastened correctly to stop the hood from riding upwards causing problems for your horse or pony and messing up your plaits. Hoods with an Anti Rub vest built in must be attached around the horse’s girth area. For those looking for something a bit different Supreme Products has a range of Fleece Hood designs to choose from.

Anti Rub Vests

Anti Rub Vests are brilliant at keeping a coat looking good. Rug rubs occur when there is friction between the tough fabrics of a rug and soft, bare skin. The results of rug rubs not only leaves a horse uncomfortable but with bald patches, especially on the shoulders. To reduce the chances of this happening, a Supreme Products Anti-Rub Vest will act as a barrier between the skin and the rug. By securely fastening the vest under the stomach the vest should not move providing great protection.

For those needing extra protection the Supreme Products Anti Rub Padded Bib is excellent. Three moveable layers between the horse and the rug help prevent friction and rubbing. The Bib is satin lined so moves over the coat, preventing rubs, as well as smoothing the coat and leaving it lustrous, laid and shiny.

Neck Sweat

The Supreme Products Neck Sweat is a garment that can really help show horses or ponies that have large cresty necks. The Neck Sweat has been designed to reduce hard or neck fats by keeping the heat in and breaking down the fatty cells.

This garment can really help with the overall impression your horse makes on the judge. Some horses have larger necks with more top line than other and there may be occasions when you need help reducing this.

Tail Cover

When travelling to competitions, horses have a tendency to get excited. Covering your horse’s tail is a simple and easy way of keeping it clean, especially if you have a grey or coloured with a white tail.

When using a tail cover make sure your horse is comfortable, you do not want to arrive at the show to find your horse in discomfort, clamping down his tail and resulting in a poor performance. However you do not want to put the tail cover on too loosely as it will slip down the tail defeating the object of using a cover so you need to find the balance. Supreme Products now have a couple of options available – a Tail Cover which is fleece lined and can attach to the rug and covers the length of the tail or, new for 2010 is the Waterproof Tail Bag which covers and protects the lower half of the tail.

Travelling Bandages and Pads

When travelling it is important to protect your horse’s legs from any knocks or bumps that might occur. You do not want to turn up at a show to find your horse has cut himself or has a swollen leg and is unable to compete. Using travel boots when in transit will also help keep your horses legs clean, giving you more time to work in and less stress when you arrive at the show.

Stable bandages and boots are also recommended for horses that are prone to knocking themselves or if a horse is put into an unfamiliar stable. Another reason for using stable bandages is for support especially with older horses. Before or after a busy day of showing bandaging your horse’s legs can help keep them clean and blemish free.

At The Show

Rain Sheet

When caught in a rain storm keep your horse dry so he stays looking at his best. The Supreme Products Fleece Lined Rain Sheet is a real necessity, allowing you to be prepared for the worst weather conditions.

An important feature - all rain sheets should have is plenty of fastenings. With rain normally comes wind, therefore if you are putting a rain sheet on your horse or pony make sure you fasten it securely. You do not want the wind getting underneath the rug and lifting it up as this could be a potential hazard for the horse and anyone in the vicinity.

In bad weather a Supreme Products Lined Rain Sheet can really help with your turnout. Not only will it keep your horse or pony’s coat looking good but will also keep them warm.

For further information please contact Supreme Products on 01377 229050 or visit the Supreme Products website.

The Supreme Products Guide to Producing a Champion

Most of the preparation for a show horse should be done at home. Giving your horse a quick bath and brush the day before a show will not have him looking in tip top condition. A show horse requires care and attention to keep him looking at his best throughout the season.

Feeding

Finding the correct feed for your horse is essential for making sure your horse looks and performs well. Regular small feeds are essential to a horses wellbeing. If your horse’s coat looks dull, add a splash of soya oil to his feed and he will soon have a shine back on his coat.

Rugging

Rugging your horse will help keep his summer coat looking good and discourage him from growing a winter one. Make sure he is warm - but not too hot otherwise he will be uncomfortable - at all times to help maintain a great coat.

In the summer it can become quite warm so you do not want to over-rug your horse. A Supreme Products Lycra Body Wrap is perfect for keeping your horse cool and comfortable whilst keeping the coat in tip top condition by preventing rug rubs. Add a lightweight rug over the top if necessary on colder periods.

Grooming

Daily grooming is essential to keep him looking good. By thoroughly grooming your horse you will help stimulate oil production and blood circulation, and will remove any dead skin cells and coat to give your horse a healthy glow. After grooming spray with Supreme Products De Luxe Coat Gloss to leave a natural looking shine to your horse’s coat

Trim any stray hairs on your horses head for example the ears, whiskers, jaw line and bridle path with mini clippers. Also make sure all heels are trimmed to create an elegant look.

Pay attention to the length of the mane and tail. If you will be regularly plaiting the mane, make sure it is pulled to a length that is manageable and will enable you to create neat plaits. In the show ring a nicely pulled tail looks elegant, however if you are not comfortable with pulling your horses tail the Supreme Products Thinning Comb is perfect for thinning manes and tails quickly and humanely.

Riding

At the start of the year make sure you get your show animals as fit as possible to be able to cope with the long days at shows. Spend a lot of time hacking out and building up the ponies and horses with more intense schooling. Good schooling work is important for the right build up of muscles to make them look more defined.

Throughout the season it is a case of ticking your horse over in between shows. It's a good idea to spend more time hacking the ponies and horses out and turning them out in the field in an attempt to keep their fitness and interest in showing.

Turnout

Turn out as much as possible. Ideally, aim for them to each get a few hours every day. Time in the field is very beneficial for horses and ponies, they get to relax and unwind which should stop them from becoming stale half way through the season.

During the season the ponies should be fit enough so concentrate on keeping them happy and sweet. After a show, give them a couple of days in the field, coming in at night for a feed and to be checked over.

For further information please contact Supreme Products on 01377 217150 or visit www.supremeproducts.co.uk

New and Improved Supreme Products Stain Remover Shampoo

So, you liked the grey or coloured horse when you went to buy him but didn’t really think about the work involved when it came to keeping him clean!

Don’t despair.

Help is on hand thanks to new and improved Stain Remover Shampoo from Supreme Products.

We’ve all been there, scrubbing away at stable stains that simply won’t go away but
Supreme Products Stain Remover Shampoo provides the answer.

Following in depth research and development using the latest technology Supreme Products has developed a new formula ideal for older, established stain removal.
It is also great for shifting yellow stains from white tails.

Supreme Products Stain Remover Shampoo- priced from £9.50 500ml.

For further information contact Supreme Products on 01377 217150 or visit the Supreme Products website.

The Secret to Producing Perfect Quarter Marks & Sharks Teeth Every Time

To those new to the show ring, applying quarter marks can seem like a complex and difficult procedure. However, practice is all that is needed to perfect them. If you get them right, they can enhance the hindquarters and can be that final touch to a polished, professional looking picture.

Show Hack and Show Pony Quarter Marks

Firstly you will need the following equipment.

• Quarter Mark Comb

• A wide body brush with closely knitted bristles

• A bucket of water

• Supreme Products Professional Collection De Luxe Coat Gloss

• Supreme Products Sparkle

Step 1

Take a body brush and submerge in a bucket of water and shake off the excess. Start at the top of the your horse quarters and brush the hair straight from left to right, working your way down to just above your horse’s thigh.

After the quarters have dried, spray Supreme Products De Luxe Coat Gloss generously on to the coat. This De Luxe Coat Gloss creates a blank canvas for you to work with and will also help keep the finished markings in place all day.

Step 2

For Show Ponies and Hack the traditional markings are an upside down V checker- board pattern. To create this effect you will need a quarter marking comb.

Start on the left hand side at the top of your horses quarters and gently comb down to create an even small square around 1 inch in size, then leave a gap of an inch and comb down again.

Show Hunter Quarter Marks

Show Hunter Quarter Marks are much simpler to apply than show pony ones.

Step 1

Prepare the hind quarters as you do for the show ponies by using a damp brush and Supreme Products De luxe Coat Gloss.

Step 2

Place the main comb or brush on the rump and comb down vertically to create a rectangle.

Leave a gap about two inches and then repeat. You should be left with two or three rectangles, which should produce a simple look.

It is important to remember that these are show hunters so create something that is bold yet still ‘showy’.

Sometimes to put even more emphasis on the hind quarters create a V-shape instead of rectangular blocks running down the quarters. To create this, take a body brush from the hip and brush into the centre, then take the brush and start from the top of the tail and brush to the centre.

You can jazz show hunter quarter marks up a bit by using a small quarter mark comb and comb horizontally in the rectangle you have just created one or two small squares.

Sharks Teeth for all Show Horses and Ponies

Now the quarter marks have been completed, it is time to add the sharks teeth underneath.

Standing at the side or wherever you find it most comfortable to see - with a damp body brush, brush in an upwards direction in one stroke in an arch shape. You should be able to see this clearly as the hair will now be laying in a different direction. Then starting at the same point brush downwards in a diagonal movement.

The next step is to brush up and try and meet the last point down, repeat this until you have three or four shark’s teeth down, depending on the size of the quarters.
To add a professional finishing touch, take a brush and starting at the dock brush down in a gentle arc down the quarter to create a more refined look.

Use Supreme Products Sparkle to add the finishing touches to the quarter marks and sharks teeth, enhancing the overall appearance of the quarters even more.

The Ultimate Supreme Products Fans Photo Competition!

Supreme Products is now running ‘The Ultimate Supreme Products Fans Photo Competition.’ This contest is fun, quick and easy to enter. All you need to do is email a photo of yourself or your friends, family etc with a Supreme Products carrier bag or brochure. At the end of each month, a lucky winner will walk away with £20 worth of Supreme Products Gift Vouchers to spend on items of their choice.

In December 2010, we will select an overall winner who will receive a hamper bursting at the seams with Supreme Products goodies. Remember, to catch the judge’s eye you will need to make your shots creative, take the bags or brochure on holiday, make them funny- think of something different or interesting that will make your entry stand out!

We do ask that you adhere to the following guidelines, to give you the best chance of winning a prize and to keep things fun and enjoyable for everyone.

• Photos must include a Supreme Products brochure or carrier bag. Carrier bags can be obtained when purchasing products or garments on the Supreme Products Trade stand throughout the season; brochures can be requested via this link.

• The funnier the better and those taken ‘on location’ (holiday!) will be sure to impress!

• Be clean – please! The judges reserve the right to refuse any pictures that are deemed inappropriate or offensive.

• Be creative

• Maximum file size is 2MB

• Multiple entries are allowed however please do not exceed the 2MB file size per email

• The competition will run monthly and a winner will be chosen on the last day of the month.

• Pictures will be posted on our Facebook Fan Page and in our Website Gallery.

• By entering this competition and submitting images, you give Supreme Products Ltd permission to use them for marketing and publicity purposes.

• Images must be emailed to sarah@supremeproducts.co.uk . Only images sent to this address will be used. Please do not send hard copies as they will not be used and we are unable to return images.

Learn How to Sew Perfect Plaits with Supreme Products

Whether showing, dressage, eventing, show jumping or hunting is your first love, creating smart plaits will give you an element of professionalism. To make sure your horse or pony looks smart when he has an outing, make sure you follow our top plaiting tips.

1. A few days before the big event pull your horses mane to a length so that it is long enough to plait but still easy to handle.

2. Assess the type of neck your horse has and the desired look you want. If your horse has a weak topline then plaits will need to be pushed up onto the crest to give him a better overall appearance. If he has a cresty neck you should opt for small plaits set low down. For a long neck you need fewer larger plaits, and more plaits for a short neck.

3. As you prepare to plait you will need the following equipment:-

• Metal mane comb
• Plaiting needles
• Plaiting thread
• Rubber bands
• Supreme Products Easy Plait
• Supreme Products Highlighter Gel

4. Spray Supreme Products Easy Plait before you begin to plait, this helps you to hold the mane firmly with extra grip, and helps tie in stray hairs. Easy Plait can be sprayed on to a wet or dry mane and will help you get a good ‘grip’ and will hold plaits in place when finished.

5. With a metal mane comb divide the mane into equal bunches bearing in mind the amount and size of the plaits you desire, securing them with elastic bands.

6. Start at the top of the mane, plait down the section of the mane as tightly as possible to create finer and tidier plaits and secure with an elastic band. If you lose your grip on the mane spray more Supreme Products Easy Plait and you will soon be back on track.

7. Once the plait has been secured, roll - not fold - the plait to the top of the neck and push the needle through from the underside to the top, making sure you guide the needle through the middle of the plait. Once the needle has gone through the plait once, repeat until you have a secure plait. I use quite a lot of thread to help hide the stray hairs, but make sure the thread is discreet. Once the plait is perfectly round with no stray hairs, cut the thread.

8. Work your way down the neck and leave the forelock until last.

9. Depending on how good you are at plaiting, French braiding the forelock adds a truly professional look but can take some time to master.

10. Once happy with your plaits smooth down any loose ends and stray hairs with Supreme Products Highlighter Gel. This is great for adding extra definition to the plaits as well as producing a glistening finish when used on the eyes, muzzle, ears and dock - a truly versatile finish.

11. Whether plaiting up on the eve of the event or on the actual day it is advisable to keep your plaits covered and protected with a high quality garment that is comfortable for your horse and durable for your plaits.

The Supreme Products range of Lycra Mix Hoods ensure your plaits stay pristine and laid. They have large eye and ear holes that fit over your horse’s face and neck keeping plaits intact, clean and smart. Make sure that you fit the hood over the top of the rug to ensure freedom of movement during travelling and overnight. The hood will add condition and shine to the coat and lay the plaits too.

12. After the event, in order to promote and protect your horse’s mane, remove the plaits immediately using an unpicker or unpicking scissors. Unpickers are ideal for removing plaiting thread from plaits, and there is less likely to be mane loss using them compared to using scissors. Once the plaits have been removed apply Supreme Products Moisturise and Condition to repair any damaged hair or rubbed skin, keeping your horse in perfect condition and ready for the next show.