Phase II of a Ridden TREC Competition
Control of Paces / COP 60 Points
This phase is also known as the Maîtrise des Allures or MA.
Phase II – The Control of Paces (COP) is designed to demonstrate a rider’s ability to influence the horse’s gait and maintain direction. In international competitions this phase is called Maîtrise des Allures (or MA).
FORMAT
Control of Paces (COP) is a timed exercise ridden along a 150 X 2 meter marked corridor that may be straight or gently curved. There are 1-2 timekeepers depending on the method used and 5 judges spread out along the corridor spotting for a break in gait.
OBJECTIVES
- To canter the corridor as SLOW as possible without breaking gait or stepping outside of the corridor.
- To walk the corridor as FAST as possible without breaking gait or stepping outside of the corridor.
SCORING / RULES
60 total points are possible (30 per section).
Times are converted to points. (See TREC Resources)
Stepping outside corridor or breaking gait = Score of 0 for that section.
LEVELS
The Control of Paces / Mastery of Gaits is the same for all Levels.
TIPS
Riders may use vocal cues to encourage their horse and help create cadence.
Riders may carry a dressage whip in this phase.
Riding with stirrups dropped allows for a longer leg and can give a distinct cue to your horse with practice / training.
Control of Paces is a simple exercise that can be difficult to master!