©FITE
Since the 1990s, TREC became a gathering element for the FITE. International, World and European Championships are organized in each NETO member of the FITE. They have to abide by specifications that the FITE provides.
It has to be at least 6 years-old and must be in good shape, calm, attentive and should have bonded with its rider.
He or she must be at least 16 yo and be able to walk outdoors with a topographic map and to safely cross difficulties than can be met outdoors. There is no such thing as an official outfit, however, decent clothing is expected. Wearing a helmet during all phases is also compulsory.
Compass, map and chronometer are essential.Competitors must conscientiously follow a 30 to 50 kms long route that corresponds to a marking they will have discovered and transcribed 20 minutes before their departure. Stage and route checkpoints whose locations are unknown by the competitors are hidden throughout the route. These checkpoints purpose is to check on the competitor's time of route, the accuracy of the route taken as well as the horse's welfare with veterinary controls. Riders must abide by an imposed speed (between 6 and 12 km/h). Good knowledge of topography enables to predict the horse's effort and to manage the progression.
This circuit, from 1,5 to 5 km, is to be performed in an ideal time which means a maximum of 12km/h. It presents a range of natural or simulated difficulties: corridor, bank, cross-slope, dip, gate, footbridge, water crossing, immobility, etc... Judges grade the efficiency, the style or chosen pace by the competitors and the potentials penalties.
This phase takes place the day after the POR phase and enables to evaluate the horse's abilities of recovering after a sustained effort.
This phase is made to highlights the paces of the horse. In an about 2 meters long materialized corridor, the horse has to travel a 150m distance, first at the slowest canter, then at the fastest walk. Putting a foot out of the corridor or performing a break of paces, makes the competitor lose all of the points for the judged pace.
The FITE puts documents at your disposal that enable you to find a roster of judges, trainers and results. It also gives you the opportunity to get informed about the applicable TREC regulation.
