Behind the Scenes with Top Show Groom Alan Carlos: Horse Care Secrets from Rome

At the recent international show in Rome, we caught up with renowned groom Alan Carlos, best known for his work with top Spanish rider Armando Trapote. With years of experience preparing elite show jumpers for world-class competitions, Alan opened up about his daily care routines, showground strategies, and the essentials he never travels without.

Horse Care, According to Alan Carlos

“Routine is everything,” Alan explained. “Horses thrive when things are done properly and consistently—clean stalls, good hay, fresh water, and a calm environment make a big difference whether you’re at home or at a show.”

He stressed the importance of clean bedding, not only for hygiene but also for the horse’s comfort and rest. “When the stall is clean and dry, the horse is more likely to lie down, relax, and recover better overnight.”

Travel and Showground Management

Alan ensures horses are well-supported during travel and competition with a focus on hydration, forage, and simple but effective care.

“Keeping them well-hydrated and giving them plenty of hay during transport and at the show is key. It keeps their digestive system healthy and helps them settle into new environments,” he said.

He also works closely with vets and follows a carefully

planned vitamin and supplement program for each horse. “Everything we do is about long-term health, not just short-term performance.”

The Art of Keeping Greys Clean

Known for presenting spotless grey horses in the ring, Alan shared some of his go-to methods:

“Grey horses test your discipline. The secret is not to let the stains build up in the first place.”

Alan’s top tips for keeping grey horses clean:

• Daily grooming with a quality stiff brush to keep the coat shiny and clean
• Spot cleaning with diluted shampoo for stable stains
• Regular clipping, especially during winter, to avoid sweat and dirt build-up

What’s Always in Alan’s Show Trunk?

Every top groom has their must-haves—and Alan keeps his simple and effective:

• Vaseline – “I always apply it at the corners of the horse’s mouth before bridling—it helps protect the skin from rubbing.”
• Plenty of towels – “For grooming, wiping, polishing— you can never have enough.”
• A good stiff brush – “It sounds basic, but daily brushing is the best way to keep the coat healthy and clean. There’s no substitute.”
  

Alan Carlos’s dedication, precision, and respect for the horses in his care are what set him apart. As he puts it:

“If you take care of the basics every single day, the horse will show up ready to give you everything.”

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