Pie & I Take on TREC! Watch Out For The Low Hanging Branches!

This video gives you a taste of the time I decided to enter Pie and myself into a TREC competition! Easy, right? 😉

You’ll see a session where I’m getting more than a few pointers on my technique for the tricky ‘low branches’ obstacle, followed by some exciting TREC competition footage and a bit of get-up-and-go inspiration!

For the low branches – it’s so easy to pop up in your stirrups too early, but it’s key to stay low and stable in the saddle as you approach. You’ll hear the instructor reminding me – “push down,” “get low,” and “don’t lift your bum!” It’s all about keeping Pie and myself balanced and secure. I realised I was standing in my stirrups before we even reached the obstacle, which definitely doesn’t help! There’s also a quick chat about whether you can change your stirrups after the low limbs – and the answer in TREC is a definite no.

Then, we switch to some great TREC competition footage. You’ll see another competitor tackling various obstacles, including going under a low loading area and navigating a narrow lane. The commentary is really positive, highlighting good scores and smooth riding. Finally, we round off with a brilliant, energetic motivational speech all about being “the world’s greatest!” It really gets you in the right headspace and reminds you to believe in yourself.

Key Takeaways:

• When you’re tackling obstacles like ‘low limbs’ (or ‘low branches’ as we call them!), it’s so important to keep a low and stable riding position. That means staying in the saddle and trying not to pop up in your stirrups too soon – something I’m really working on with Pie!
• TREC competitions have specific rules about adjusting your kit during the obstacle phase. For example, you can’t change your stirrups after you’ve completed the low limbs.
• Having a positive mindset and confidence in yourself is a massive part of equestrian sports. That motivational speech at the end really captures that feeling!