As easy as one, two, three
There are three phases that make up TREC — orienteering, control of paces and the obstacle phase.
The orienteering phase can be ridden in pairs or solo at summer competitions. It involves copying a route onto a blank map, then navigating your way around the trail. There are optimum speeds for each section. In the control of paces phase, riders are awarded marks for a slow canter and a fast walk in a corridor 100-150m long.
The obstacle phase consists of 16 obstacles based on hazards you might encounter out hacking, such as splashing through water, riding up and down an incline, opening a gate, and so on. All obstacles are optional. “TREC is the only sport in which you can decline an obstacle and just lose the 10 potential points. You won’t be eliminated,” explains Amanda. “In fact, we have several good competitors who don’t jump for various reasons and that doesn’t stop them winning. A loss of 10 marks can easily be made up by a good sense of direction on the map phase.” Over winter, the TREC season doesn’t stop. There are still arena days focusing on the obstacle phase and control of paces sections, which make a great introduction to the sport. Events are usually run in an indoor or outdoor school, with the obstacle phase shortened to 10 obstacles. There are a number of classes to suit all horses and riders, and help is at hand for those trying TREC for the first time. You can even do the obstacles in-hand, or have someone in the arena with you to boost your confidence.