The Ultimate Guide to Pony Club

What It Is, History, Levels, and Benefits, and Sports

If you have had the wonderful pleasure of being a part of Pony Club then this may be nothing new but for those of you that have not discovered Pony Club the largest equestrian educational organization in the world, here is an introduction to everything Pony Club.  Pony Club is a globally recognized organization dedicated to teaching young equestrians how to ride, care for horses, and develop life skills through horsemanship. With clubs operating in many countries, Pony Club offers a structured educational framework that promotes sportsmanship, responsibility, and camaraderie among its members and we wish every horse lover had the opportunity to be a member of Pony Club learn why!

What Is Pony Club?

Pony Club is an international youth organization that provides comprehensive education and training in equestrian sports and horse care. It is aimed at children and young adults up to the age of 25 (21 in some countries), offering opportunities for learning, competing, and developing a deep connection with horses. Pony Club members participate in a variety of activities, from riding lessons to horse management workshops, games, rallies, and competitions.

A Brief History of Pony Club

Pony Club was founded in 1929 in Great Britain as a part of the Institute of the Horse, with the mission to promote interest in riding and horse care among young people. The concept quickly spread across the globe, with countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand establishing their own Pony Club organizations. Today, Pony Club has grown into an international network with thousands of members and countless branches worldwide.

Levels in Pony Club

Pony Club members progress through a series of levels, each designed to build their riding skills, knowledge of horse care, and leadership abilities. When a member is ready for the next level they do a test, largely conducted by volunteers, and if they pass they can move up a level.  As a young child I remember my horse crazy competitive self frustrated that I had to wait to move to the next level.  The levels typically include:

1. D Level: Beginner level focusing on basic riding skills, stable management, and knowledge of horse behavior.  Depending on your location you will then move through the D levels D1-D2 or D3
2. C Level: Intermediate level where members develop more refined riding techniques and a deeper understanding of equine health and management. Depending on your location you will then move through the C levels C1-C2 or C3
3. B Level: Advanced level that involves riding on the flat and over fences with precision, as well as comprehensive horse care knowledge.
4. HA/HB Level: Advanced Horse Management Certification, where members demonstrate proficiency in stable management, horse handling, and instructional abilities.
5. A Level: The highest level, requiring a high degree of competency in riding, training, and overall horse care.  The most worrisome about this level testing I recall as a young person was the requirement to swap horses during testing.  

Benefits of Pony Club

Pony Club offers numerous benefits for young equestrians, including:

• Riding Skills: Members receive top-notch training in various disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, and cross-country.
• Horse Care Knowledge: Pony Club teaches everything from grooming and feeding to first aid and disease prevention.
• Personal Development: Members develop responsibility, leadership, and teamwork skills through hands-on learning and volunteering.  Those that are testing through the levels quickly become teachers and testers of those in lower levels.
• Competition Opportunities: Pony Club hosts rallies, shows, and championships at regional, national, and international levels.
• Friendship and Community: Pony Club fosters a sense of camaraderie among members, providing a supportive environment to make lifelong friends.

What Do You Do in Pony Club?

In Pony Club, members participate in a wide range of activities designed to develop their equestrian skills and knowledge. These activities include:

• Mounted Instruction: Lessons in riding, from beginner basics to advanced techniques in dressage, jumping, and eventing.  When growing up we had Pony Club lessons each Saturday morning.  Lessons are usually on a consistent basis for all levels in the club.
• Unmounted Instruction: Classes and workshops covering topics like horse anatomy, stable management, and health care.  These may be associated with Quizzes or just part of the club education opportunities.
• Rallies and Camps: Opportunities for members to compete, camp, and learn in a group setting with their peers.  Rallies, featuring three-day eventing and camp also have the unmounted portion either judging or lessons.
• Certifications: Members can work towards earning different Pony Club certifications based on their riding skills and horsemanship knowledge.

What Is the Purpose of Pony Club?

The primary purpose of Pony Club is to educate young riders and horse enthusiasts in both riding and horse care, promoting the development of well-rounded equestrians. The organization emphasizes the importance of safety, responsibility, and sportsmanship while instilling a love and respect for horses. It aims to prepare members for a lifetime of involvement in equestrian sports and fosters a passion for learning.

How Much Does It Cost to Be in Pony Club?

The cost of joining Pony Club can vary widely depending on your location and the activities offered by your local branch. Typically, Pony Club is heavily dependent on volunteers making membership quite reasonable and inclusive.  Membership fees range from $100 to $200 per year, which includes access to educational resources, riding instruction, and participation in events. Additional costs such as equipment, travel, and competition fees may also apply. Some clubs offer fundraising opportunities or financial aid to help cover expenses.

What Are Good Pony Club Books?

For those looking to deepen their understanding of Pony Club’s teachings, there are several excellent books that provide valuable insights:

1. "The United States Pony Club Manual of Horsemanship” (D, C, and B/A Levels) by Susan E. Harris: This series is a comprehensive guide covering everything from basic riding skills to advanced techniques and horse care and is really the main go to for Pony Clubbers, once upon a time I really had it memorized!
2. “Pony Club Quiz Book” by Pony Club Association of Victoria: A fun way for young members to test their knowledge on various aspects of horse care and riding.
3. “Complete Horse Riding Manual” by William Micklem: This book offers a visual and detailed approach to riding and horsemanship, making it ideal for Pony Club members at any level.
4. “The Pony Club Handbook” by Pony Club UK: A go-to resource for UK-based members, providing all the essential information about Pony Club activities and certifications.

Conclusion

Pony Club is more than just a place to learn about riding—it’s a community where young riders grow, achieve, and form lifelong connections. Whether you’re looking to improve your riding skills, deepen your horse care knowledge, or simply enjoy time with like-minded equestrians, Pony Club offers a supportive and enriching environment to help young riders reach your goals.  I think more adults are wishing such a thing existed for them!

If you are ready to embark on a Pony Club journey don’t forget to check out Young Rider collection so you can show up to your lessons in style with our colorful designer matchy English saddle pad sets made for ponies and cobs. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pony Club

Q: What do you do in Pony Club?
A: In Pony Club, members participate in a range of activities that focus on riding instruction, horse care education, and competition. Typical activities include mounted lessons in disciplines like dressage, show jumping, and cross-country, as well as unmounted workshops on topics such as horse grooming, health, and stable management. Members also take part in rallies, camps, and social events, providing opportunities for learning, competing, and building friendships with fellow young equestrians.

Q: What is the purpose of Pony Club?
A: The primary purpose of Pony Club is to develop knowledgeable, responsible, and skilled young equestrians through structured education in both riding and horse care. Pony Club aims to promote good sportsmanship, leadership, and safety, while fostering a love and respect for horses. Members gain valuable life skills, such as perseverance, teamwork, and self-discipline, that extend beyond their equestrian pursuits.

Q: How much does it cost to be in Pony Club?
A: The cost of Pony Club membership can vary depending on your location and the specific club you join. Annual membership fees typically range from $100 to $200, which may include access to educational resources, riding instruction, and participation in local events. Additional costs may include equipment, competition fees, and travel expenses. Some clubs offer fundraising options or financial aid to help cover these costs.

Q: What are good Pony Club books?
A: Some excellent books for Pony Club members include:

• “The United States Pony Club Manual of Horsemanship” series by Susan E. Harris, which provides comprehensive guidance for each Pony Club level (D, C, and B/A).
• “The Pony Club Handbook” by Pony Club UK, which is a go-to resource for members in the UK.
• “Complete Horse Riding Manual” by William Micklem, which covers everything from riding techniques to horse care in a visual format.
• “Pony Club Quiz Book” by the Pony Club Association of Victoria, which is great for testing knowledge on various aspects of riding and horse management.

These books offer valuable information and tips that support Pony Club members as they progress through the different levels and deepen their understanding of horsemanship.