About the National OrganizationHorsemanship with respect to healthcare, nutrition, stable management, handling and riding a mount safely, correctly and with confidence
Organized teamwork including cooperation, communication, responsibility, leadership, mentoring, teaching and fostering a supportive yet competitive environment Respect for the horse and self through horsemanship; for land through land conservation; and for others through service and teamwork Service by providing an opportunity for members, parents, and others to support the Pony Club program locally, regionally and nationally through volunteerism Education at an individual pace to achieve personal goals and expand knowledge through teaching others |
Who We Are |
A national not-for-profit organization that provides a program for youth teaching riding, mounted sports, and the care of horse and ponies, with the goals of creating lasting life skills, friendships and leadership skills.
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Our History |
U.S. Pony Clubs started in 1954 to teach the English style of riding and the proper care of horses. It is an offshoot of the British Pony Club, which was created in 1929 as a junior branch of the Institute of the Horse. Since then, Pony Club has expanded to many countries around the world. The main purpose is to promote sportsmanship, stewardship and leadership through horsemanship.
Many of our nation's top equestrians, including many of our Olympic team members have roots in Pony Club. Youth members range in age from as about six through age 25, and some clubs even include adult members of the Horsemasters Program. There are approximately 10,000 members in 600 clubs and riding centers in 43 regions throughout the country. |
Certifications |
Pony Club members progress through a standard evaluation system called Certifications. Each level requires them to learn more about horses and their care and to become increasingly accomplished riders. Pony Club believes that safety and the care of the horse - Horse Management - should be primary goals for all riders.
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The Rally & Championships |
A Regional rally is a competition in one or more specific disciplines where regional clubs come together to compete in Horse Management and Riding in search of the top title.
Every year a Championship competition takes place in the warm month of July. Championships is an opportunity for winning regional teams to compete in their desired discipline. |