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What Pony Club all about
Pony Club is the largest equestrian educational organization in the world. The cornerstones of our foundation are education, safety, sportsmanship, stewardship and FUN. Members learn riding and the care of horses through mounted sports. The skills, habits and values instilled through horsemanship will apply to every part of a member’s life. Many of our graduates feel that Pony Club helped shape their character and the choices they have made as adults.
The Pony Club Legacy
The idea for Pony Club started in Great Britain in 1928. The founders recognized the need for any child with an interest to have access to excellent equestrian education and training. The idea was so successful that it soon spread to other countries. In 1954, Pony Club came to the United States and today flourishes in 31 countries with 130,000 members! An impressive percentage of the world’s top riders in international competition are graduates of Pony Club.
Devoted to safety
Pony Club members learn how to handle and work around their horse with safety and self-reliance under trained supervision. Pony Club played an integral part in the development of equestrian sport safety helmets. All members are required to wear helmets, and safety checks before riding is a Pony Club “best practice” to ensure that equipment is in good condition and properly adjusted.
Learning, building and progressing
Everyone begins Pony Club at the same level. As members learn and develop at their own pace, they have the opportunity to progress through the Pony Club certification system. Each level requires an increasing depth of knowledge and skills. The highest certification distinguishes the rider as an accomplished, professional-level horseman & Horsewomen.
Confidence in the saddle
Pony Club teaches a solid foundation of correct riding based on timeless classical principles. Members learn good balance and communication, developing into thinking and effective riders, always with the horse’s best interests at heart. They become confident and comfortable riding in the arena and in the open.
Not just riders, but horsemen & horsewomen
Good horsemanship extends far beyond skills in the saddle. Pony Club members gain an impressive depth of knowledge in equine behavior and training, health and fitness, nutrition and veterinary care, and the correct use and maintenance of equipment. Strong business skills are built through stable management: budgeting, record-keeping, and interacting with professionals in the equine industry.
Getting together to learn and compete
Pony Clubs from different parts of the country gather to learn, prepare for certifications and compete. Members compete in teams. Team competition is a fun and important part of Pony Club’s education and training, and is a strong bonding element.
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