Introduction. TREC - Techniques de Randonnée Equestre de Compétition

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1 BHS TREC BHS TREC is a unique, fun equestrian sport based on the popular French discipline Le Trec. Competitions run throughout the UK, catering for all abilities - beginners through to those competing at international level - Why not give it a go? BHS TREC is designed to test the partnership between horse and rider and their ability to cope with riding across a varied terrain and over natural obstacles. It involves the skills and challenges any rider might encounter when out hacking.

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3 Introduction In 1998 The British Horse Society brought the sport of TREC to the UK and it has now expanded into a popular and accessible equestrian activity. BHS TREC is based on the French discipline Le Trec. Its French name, Techniques de Randonnée Equestre de Compétition gives us the abbreviation TREC. The concept of BHS TREC is to test the expertise of professional equestrian trekking guides yet also appeal to the everyday grass roots rider who enjoys the thrill of riding out either as an individual or a pair in unfamiliar countryside. It tests their navigational competence, control of their horse s paces and their ability to tackle a variety of obstacles. TREC has its own International Governing Body, The Fédération Internationale de Tourisme Equestre (FITE). The BHS is the official member and Governing Body for the United Kingdom, where the sport is known as BHS TREC. BHS TREC appeals to all horse and rider combinations irrespective of breed or experience, from the ambitious competitor to the grass roots recreational rider. Affiliated BHS TREC competitions and Championship qualifiers are held throughout the country. These give competitors a chance to qualify to compete at the BHS TREC Championships of Great Britain. Important Contact Information Call: competitions@bhs.org.uk

4 What is BHS TREC? BHS TREC comprises three phases: Orienteering Control of Paces Cross-Country Obstacle Course Phase One: Orienteering or POR (Parcours d'orientation et de Regularité) This phase is orienteering on horseback and is the most challenging phase of the competition. It sees competitors copying a predetermined route onto a map which they must then follow without deviation. Competitors can compete either as an individual or as part of a pair and are usually set off at five minute intervals to prevent riders from following each other. The organiser will set speeds between each checkpoint, so competitors need to ride the route correctly within an optimum time. For any minute a competitor is over or under the time limit set for that stage, the competitor will lose marks. Most of the POR sections are completed in walk and trot depending on the level. Routes range from 12km at beginner level, up to 45km at Championship level where a higher level of horse and rider fitness is required. Phase Two: Control of Paces or CoP (Maîtrise des Allures (MA)) The Control of Paces is designed to demonstrate that the rider can exercise a high degree of influence over the horse, first in canter then in walk following a marked course of up to 150 metres long and between 2 and 4 metres wide. The aim of the exercise is for the horse to canter along the marked corridor as slowly as possible without breaking its gait. The rider then turns around and walks back along the corridor as quickly as possible, again without a change of gait. Phase Three: Cross-Country Obstacle Course or PTV (Parcours en Terrain Varié) The PTV is intended to test the horse s obedience, confidence and balance as well as the correctness and accuracy of the rider s aids when negotiating the obstacles. The size of the obstacles is set according to the level of competition. Each obstacle is optional and does not result in elimination if bypassed. Riders gain points for each obstacle attempted.

5 The winner is determined by the number of points gained over the three phases of the competition. BHS TREC is a fun sport, open to all. It has something to offer every horse and rider.

6 How do I prepare for my first BHS TREC event? Once you have found an event that is suitable for both you and your horse s level of experience and fitness, it is sensible to get some practice with an Ordnance Survey map so you can recognise specific landmarks, bridleways and roads around your local area. Take a map out with you when you go hacking, even on a route that you are familiar with, as it will give you an idea of the length of your route and help you familiarise yourself with specific symbols. You will find ditches, logs and gates when out riding which make ideal practise for the PTV. It is recommended that newcomers to BHS TREC start competing at Level 1 so they can familiarise themselves with the rules and how the competition structure works. If you don t feel confident riding in unfamiliar countryside as an individual you can compete in BHS TREC as a pair. This is usually with another rider on horseback, but if you are under the age of 14 you can be accompanied by a person on a bike or on foot. You would then complete the CoP and PTV phases separately. Your score for the POR will be doubled and the PTV and CoP scores will be combined to form your total score. It is important that you familiarise yourself with BHS TREC rules so you are fully aware of how the scoring works and where you can earn those extra valuable points. The Rulebook details the obstacles that you can expect to find on the PTV course and is available from our BHS Bookshop ( There is also a list of required equipment that riders must carry at all times. You may be penalised or not be allowed to start the POR without this equipment. Basic fitness It is important that both you and your horse are fit to compete regardless of the level you are competing in, as you may be out for a number of hours. Your own fitness plays an enormous part in how you and your horse will cope while out riding. If you are not fit you will become tired very quickly, your riding position will be affected and you will be a burden to your horse, tiring it more quickly.

7 Control of Paces (CoP) The CoP is designed to demonstrate that the rider can control the horse s speed, first in canter then in walk following a marked course of up to 150 metres long and between 2 and 4 metres wide. The aim of the exercise is for the horse to canter along the marked corridor as slowly as possible without breaking its gait, or stepping outside the corridor. The rider then turns around and walks back along the corridor as quickly as possible, again without a change of gait. This is harder than it looks. Remember that to canter in a controlled and balanced manner down the centre line in a dressage test (a distance of between 40m - 60m) is difficult enough and in the CoP you are usually looking at more than double that distance. It is important to establish a secure, balanced working canter on a circle prior to starting this phase and the horse should be between your hand and leg. The horse should be responsive to the rider s aids and be submissive and balanced to ensure that you produce a balanced working canter. When the rider feels that the horse has the correct canter, it is important that the rider looks all the way down the corridor. As soon as a rider enters the corridor, it is very important that they keep riding the canter until they reach the end of the corridor. Many riders pay the penalty for relaxing half way down the corridor and the horse breaks into trot, instantly losing marks. The rider must then turn around and walk back along the corridor as quickly as possible, again without a change of gait. Different riders approach this in different ways. Some ride on a loose rein taking their feet out of the stirrups, others keep a secure contact, pushing their horse forward. Your technique depends on you and your horse and requires practise so when you get to your competition your horse knows exactly what is expected.

8 To practise start by finding out how many canter strides your horse makes in his normal canter over a set distance and then practise slowing that canter down increasing strides until your horse s canter is much slower and collected, but still balanced and rhythmical. Every horse is different and what works for one won t necessarily work for another, so take the time to find out what works for you and your horse.

9 Obstacle Course (PTV) The PTV is a timed obstacle course and will consist of up to 16 natural or simulated obstacles, including steps, water, jumps, ditches and low branches. It will include some tasks which must be undertaken while dismounted. The course should be completed within an optimum time which is calculated at roughly 12km/h depending on terrain, weather conditions and length of course. One of the nice things about BHS TREC is that if you don t want to attempt an obstacle, you don t have to. If you come to an obstacle that you know you and your horse won t attempt you can simply opt out of that particular obstacle and score zero in that instance. You must stop in front of the judge and clearly inform them that you won t be attempting that particular obstacle before proceeding to the next one. If you fail to inform the judge you will be eliminated for taking the wrong course. There are up to 10 points available for each obstacle. Each obstacle s points consist of: Effectiveness - how well you can carry out the task (max 7) Style - how stylishly the obstacle is completed (+3 to -2) Penalties (-1 to -3 for carelessness, abusive or dangerous riding) are taken off the score as necessary. Training You will find that if you have regular lessons with your horse or compete in other disciplines such as dressage or cross-country you will be well prepared for the demands of a BHS TREC competition. An obedient horse that can perform a simple dressage test should have no difficulty with the CoP or some PTV obstacles such as rein back, S-Bend or the corridor. Although it is not compulsory to jump on the PTV phase those who have done a little cross-country riding will be able to tackle the jumping obstacles and score more points.

10 What to expect? There are four levels of competition, with Level 1 being the simplest and Level 4 the most challenging. Phases POR- Orienteering Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 Suitable for beginners Route up to 12km long 2-3 hours riding Basic map reading skills - rivers, roads, woods and field boundaries, rights of way Suitable for novices Route up to 20km long 3-4 hours riding Higher degree of accuracy, contours, choosing correct route between farm buildings, the ability to navigate through woods and over heathland with minimal landmarks Horses are subject to a vet check out on the POR at Championships Suitable for experienced competitors Route up to 32km long 4-5 hours riding High degree of accuracy, including using grid references and/or bearings (navigating by compass without the use of a map) Horses are subject to a vet check out on the POR Suitable for highly experienced competitors Route up to 40km long 5-7 hours riding Tests the fitness of horse and rider to navigate unfamiliar terrain accurately over a sustained period of time High degree of technical accuracy Horses are subject to a vet check out on the POR

11 Phases CoP Control of Paces PTV Obstacle Course Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 Up to 150m in length Flowing wide and inviting corridor Up to 16 natural or simulated obstacles including jumps up to 60cm with an appropriate time limit Inviting and flowing course Up to 150m in length Flowing and inviting corridor introducing smooth curves Up to 16 natural or simulated obstacles including jumps up to 70cm with an appropriate time limit Up to 150m in length Narrower, flowing corridor with curves than at level 2, slight gradients Up to 16 natural or simulated obstacles including jumps up to 80cm with an appropriate time limit Up to 150m in length Narrow corridor that can be straight or may have twists, corners and gradients Up to 16 natural or simulated obstacles including jumps up to 90cm with an appropriate time limit More technical course with fast obstacles going into a slow obstacle

12 Entering a BHS TREC competition Most BHS TREC competitions are run over two days, although some Level 1 competitions are run on one day. For two day competitions the POR phase is normally run on the first day. A social evening for all judges and competitors usually rounds off the first day with the PTV and CoP being run on the second day. This is not always the case, if access to land is limited. If the competition is run over two days and if you are staying for the whole weekend, the usual accommodation for horses is corralling. Competitors usually park their trailer/horsebox and then use electric fencing to create a suitable paddock for their horse. If your horse doesn t corral, organisers usually have a list of local stabling in the area. This would be something you would need to check prior to entering the competition. Competitors will then either pitch a tent or sleep in their lorry/caravan for the duration of the competition. One of the major attractions of BHS TREC is the social aspect of the sport. Organisers of two day competitions will usually put on some sort of function on the Saturday night, like a quiz or a disco. On the day Secretary s Office When you arrive at the event, report to the Secretary s Office where you can collect your rider number, emergency phone numbers and any other additional information such as vetting or start times. Tack check Prior to entering the map room you will have a tack check, so it is important that you are carrying all the compulsory equipment. Failure to have the required equipment will result in your being unable to start the POR until all the correct equipment is in place. You may also incur penalties. It is very useful to remember where the equipment is stored, so at the tack check or in an emergency, items are easily accessible. In the map room Once you have had all your tack and equipment checked. It is important that you have your map marking pens readily available so you are ready to start as soon as you are in the map room. Remember you have a limited amount of time in the map room to copy the route, dependent on the level at which you compete.

13 On entering the map room you will be given your Competitor POR Record Card and a blank copy of the map. It is important that you store this card in a safe place as you will need to give it to checkpoint stewards throughout the POR phase who will record your progress. Remember to be as accurate as possible when copying the route onto your map as this is where errors can occur. Ensure you pay attention to direction arrows and mark accurately, which side of the field boundaries you are to ride on and where you need to turn off the path. The map room steward will inform you when your time is up. Your time starts as soon as you have left the map room, so it is important to leave as quickly as possible, making a note of the set speed for the first section. If you leave after your allocated departure time, you may incur penalties. Orienteering (POR) Organisers will place a number of checkpoints along the route which aren t marked on the map and are used to check that competitors are on the correct route and the horse/pony is in good physical condition. When you arrive at the checkpoint the steward will ask you for your POR Record Card, they will also note down your arrival time and will inform you of the time you are due to depart. Use this time wisely, it is a good chance for both you and your horse to have a rest, check where you are on the map, the speed for the next section, refreshment and to give your horse a check over. Between check points there is a set speed determined by the organiser, dependent on terrain, level and weather conditions. If you are too fast or slower than the set speed time penalties will be accrued. The rider begins the POR with 240 points and the aim is to complete the phase without scoring penalties which will be deducted from your original score. Speed Card

14 The main reasons for 'losing' points are: Missing any checkpoints or tickets (which are placed on route by the organiser to ensure that the riders are on the correct route) Arriving at a checkpoint by a route other than that intended by the organiser Finding a checkpoint/ bad ticket not on their route Opening their map during the bearings section (Level 3 and above) Control of Paces (CoP) Depending on the competition the CoP is usually held on the second day just prior to the PTV Phase. This isn t always the case, but you will be informed of this prior to the start of the competition. The Control of Paces corridor isn t always in a straight line, so it is very important that you walk it prior to riding, as even a straight line may have undulations. Some organisers have been known to place the CoP on the side of a hill with the camber falling away from you. So it pays to be prepared! You will be given a start time for the CoP so make sure you are warmed up and ready in good time. Obstacle Course (PTV) Depending on the competition the PTV is usually held on the second day. Again, this isn t always the case, some organisers like to put the occasional PTV obstacle out on the POR, but you will be informed of this prior to the start of the competition. It is extremely important that you walk the PTV course carefully, so you are fully aware of the route of the course and whether the obstacles are ridden or led. It is useful to know the time limit set for your level. It is important to remember that in BHS TREC the PTV is not roped off for competitors as it would be in Hunter Trials or Cross-Country events, so you need to remember the route and what order the obstacles are in. Compulsory gates are sometimes used in a PTV course to ensure that competitors ride the route intended. This may be necessary to ensure riders ride around the edge of field instead of straight across it. If a compulsory gate is missed it will result in elimination from the PTV, thus scoring no points for that phase.

15 Prize-giving and final scores It is important to check with the Organiser or Technical Delegate to see when the results will be published. Most organisers will try to publish the results on the day of the competition, but sometimes this is not possible. Remember to collect your individual scoresheet, as this will show you if you missed any checkpoints or found a bad ticket. It will also show you the scores for each obstacle and will give you a starting point on where you can improve. Volunteers No BHS TREC event could take place without the assistance of numerous volunteers. Their dedication and contribution is invaluable to the sport so please treat them with respect. It is also a great way to find out more about BHS TREC: you ll find that organisers will welcome you with open arms if you volunteer to help.

16 What can I wear for each phase? POR Hat to the standard below Fluorescent/hi-viz garments Suitable riding clothing, jodhpurs/waterproofs Suitable riding footwear Body protector if worn Level 3 is strongly recommended Medical Armband General CoP Hat to the standard below Suitable riding clothing Suitable riding footwear Body protector if worn Level 3 is strongly recommended Medical Armband PTV Hat to the standard below Suitable riding clothing Suitable riding footwear Body protector if worn Level 3 is strongly recommended Medical Armband Protective headwear (Hats) Protective headwear must be worn at all times by anyone, whether or not a competitor, riding anywhere at a BHS TREC event. Harnesses must be correctly adjusted and fastened and protective headwear at Championships must show a visible BHS hat tag. protective headwear constitutes a hat which meets one of the following standards. Failure to do so will incur elimination. British PAS 015, BSEN1384 European EN1384 American All SEI ASTM 95, ASTM F1163, SNELL E2001 Australian and New Zealand AS/NZS Provided they are BSI Kitemarked or SEI marked Whips Competitors may carry appropriate whips not exceeding 75cm in length (1m for side-saddle) Spurs Spurs, if worn, must be rounded, pointed downwards and not exceed 3cm. If worn must be worn for all three phases

17 What should my horse wear for each phase? The horse s tack must fit correctly and be suited to the horse. All phases must be performed in the same tack Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 Bit Bitless Bridles Standing/Fixed Martingale Running Martingale Any type of bit may be used Bitless Bridles may be used Not permitted Permitted - must use leadrope attached to head collar for led obstacles/ leading Bitless Bridles may be used Not permitted Permitted - must use leadrope attached to head collar for led obstacles/ leading Bitless Bridles may be used Not permitted Permitted - must use leadrope attached to head collar for led obstacles/ leading Neck Strap Permitted Permitted Permitted Whips POR CoP PTV Not exceeding 75cm in length (1m for sidesaddle) Any type of bit may be used Not exceeding 75cm in length (1m for sidesaddle) Headcollar/Leadrope A headcollar and leadrope must be worn for all phases unless a combination bridle is worn. Any type of bit may be used Not exceeding 75cm in length (1m for sidesaddle)

18 What Equipment do I need? Check list: Horse Bridle Saddle Girth Numnahs ID on horse to include rider number and telephone number to be clearly visible and waterproof (compulsory) Saddlebag Headcollar and Leadrope (compulsory for all phases) Hoof boot (recommended but compulsory at Level 3 and above) Rugs Grooming kit Travelling rugs, boots Passport (under DEFRA rules it is illegal to transport horse without a valid passport) Horse First Aid Kit Hat PAS 015 BSEN 1384 EN1384 Rider ALL SEI ASTM 95, ASTM F1163 SNELL E2001 AS/NZS E (compulsory) Suitable waterproof riding clothing Suitable riding footwear (compulsory) Spurs (not compulsory) but if worn must be worn for all phases Medical card and armband (compulsory) Body protector (not compulsory) Level 3 recommended Whip (not compulsory) First Aid Kit Watch Provided they are BSI Kitemarked or SEI marked General (All recommended except where marked compulsory) Drinks and snacks (It is important to eat/drink while competing to maintain your concentration levels) Pens for marking map Compass First Aid Kit - Human First Aid Kit - Horse Torch Map Case Waterproofs/sun cream Whistle Emergency farrier tools For POR only - fluorescent/ reflective clothing (Compulsory for POR phase) Electric fencing, tape, posts and battery for corral Water containers, buckets, sponges, feed and hay

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20 National BHS TREC Championships of Great Britain The British Horse Society holds an annual BHS TREC Championships of Great Britain open to competitors from throughout the United Kingdom who have qualified to compete at the National Championships. How to qualify for the Championships BHS TREC qualifiers are held throughout the country, enabling competitors to qualify for the Championships. Competitors who are placed first to fifth at a qualifier will be invited to the Championships. If a competitor within the top five is already qualified then the qualification is passed down to a maximum of tenth place. All those who qualify will receive official notification from the BHS office and will be invited to the Championships. Competitors must complete all three phases of the competition to be eligible to qualify for the Championships. Any BHS Gold or British Riding Club member is eligible to compete at the qualifiers. Team entries are also welcome. How do you enter? Schedules for BHS TREC qualifiers and the BHS TREC Championships are placed on the BHS website and can then be downloaded. You can also enter the Championships online at Competitors qualified for the Championships will receive official notification from the BHS Competitions office. For more information and dates of this year s BHS TREC Championships of Great Britain please visit the BHS website at: Riding/BHS_TREC.aspx

21 European and World TREC Championships Competitors regularly competing at Level 3 and 4 can represent their country as part of the GBR BHS TREC team in the European and World TREC Championships. A development squad of long listed riders regularly attend training incorporating the following elements: flatwork, jumping, orienteering and team motivation. Riders aged between years are eligible to compete as part of the Young Riders Squad and compete on an Annual Basis at the European/ World Championships. Senior riders compete every two years at European/World Championships. Any British Horse Society or British Riding Club member can represent GBR. Selection criteria 2011 a) Team selection will be the sole responsibility of the Chef d Equipe and the Selectors appointed by the BHS Competitions Committee. b) Selection will be primarily based on the following: Current form of horse and rider Consistently proved themselves in competition, riding at Level 3 and above, (Seniors to be mainly at Level 4) as an individual, including events outside of the UK. Short listing will require competitors to be assessed at Level 4. Long Listed Young Riders may be required to complete a Level 4 competition at the discretion of the Selection Committee. Selection will be based primarily on the rider/horse form in the year of the International Championships. Fitness of horse and rider Have demonstrated that the rider/horse combination has the level of fitness and the degree of consistency of performance appropriate to be competitive in an International Championships. Suitable level of fitness, both mental and physical. Control of Paces Demonstrated that they have the ability to score in excess of 45 points on the CoP (MA).

22 Suitability as team member Must have demonstrated their ability to gel as a team member and contribute to the team success and environment Be likely to benefit by representing Great Britain, and contribute to the future success of the squad and the sport Some experience of international competition at equivalent of UK Level 4 Top 10 placing in current UK TREC League, or participation in previous year s International Championships Performance in UK TREC Championships Other factors that will be taken into account by the Selectors The all-round performance of the rider at previous international championships Commitment to participate in both organised development training session and individual personal training plans for horse and rider Demonstrate the ability to ride a variety of different horses confidently and effectively Communication between team members, Chef d Equipe and Selectors Any competitor applying for selection must inform The British Horse Society and the Selection Committee (including the relevant Chef d Equipe) in writing of any changes in health or circumstances of either themselves or their horse prior to and throughout the selection process. New members will be invited onto the Development Squad over the coming months if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, they fulfil the selection criteria. Any current members of the Development Squad who are not felt to be performing at the required level and/or participating (communication, training and competitions, commitment) adequately will be removed from the squad, after discussion with the Selectors. Riders will be notified of their removal from the Development Squad, in writing, by the BHS. After competitors have commenced travelling to the Championships the Chef d Equipe is responsible for changes to selection.

23 BHS TREC training The BHS Competitions office offers training for Judges and Technical Delegates which is usually run during the winter. Training is also offered at Club level. The full list of BHS TREC training dates can be found on the BHS website at Examinations The British Horse Society offers Equestrian Tourism qualifications for those working in the equestrian tourism industry, particularly those taking out treks/ trail rides/hacks. These qualifications are also useful for competitors who compete in BHS TREC, from which some of these skills are incorporated in these industry specific examinations. The BHS offers the following examinations: Assistant Ride Leader this qualification is designed for those working in the equine tourism industry, but is beneficial to those riders who regularly ride for long periods of time over varied terrain. Ride Leader this qualification is designed for those working in the equine tourism industry, but is beneficial to those riders who regularly ride for long periods over varied terrain using grid references and plan routes using appropriate trails on a map. Riding Holiday Centre Manager this qualification is designed for those who operate, as either manager, or owner, a riding holiday centre both from the practical as well as financial aspects. He or she is an expert to whom others, including tourist organisations, can turn to for advice. In recognition of the standards attained by the holders of Equestrian Tourism qualifications, candidates can gain direct entry into some BHS examinations. For further information regarding the British Equestrian Tourism (BET) examinations, please contact the BHS Approvals Department on:

24 Find a Club One of the easiest and quickest ways to find out how to become more involved in BHS TREC is to join a TREC Club Scotland Scottish TREC Advisory Group (STAG) Contact: Karen Waite (Chairman) Phone: Website: North West Bowland TREC Group (Affiliated British Riding Club, Area 3) Contact: Diane Richmond Phone: diane2richmond@yahoo.com West Midlands Mercia TREC Club (Affiliated British Riding Club, Area 20) Contact: Sue Perks Phone: Website: East Midlands White Horse TREC Group (Affiliated British Riding Club, Area 16) Contact: Mrs Paula Bean (Chairman) paula@white-horse-trec.co.uk Website: Central Central TREC Group Contact: Anna Weston / Mary Weston Phone: / central@trecgroup.co.uk Website: Wales TRAC - TREC Riders Association Cymru (Probationary affiliated BRC) Contact: Cath Cromarty Tel: cathcrom@o2.co.uk South West TREC South West Contact: Julie Brand (Chairman) Phone: (Before 8pm) jj@trecsouthwest.com Website: Cornwall TREC Club (Affiliated British Riding Club, Area 19) Contact: Jane Fisher Phone: janefisherarea19@aol.com Website: East Cambs TREC Contact: Yvonne Duffy Phone: purplevonny@cambstrec.co.uk South East South East TREC Group Contact: Joy Taylor Phone: setrec@yahoo.co.uk Website: For more information please call: competitions@bhs.org.uk Abbey Park, Stareton, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2XZ