About United States Pony Club

Sooner Pony Club

About the United States Pony Club

The Three R's

Reading
Riding
Responsibility

The United States Pony Club (USPC) was founded in 1954. Patterned after the British Pony Club, the USPC created a way for kids to get good, sound, experienced training in horsemanship without regard to economic status, or breed of horse used. Youth through age 21 are eligible.

One misconception about Pony Club is that "Pony" in the name refers to the size of the horse used. But, that isn't the case. Equines of all sizes - 17 hand Thoroughbred to Shetland ponies are used. The "Pony" in Pony Club came from the British use of the word where a pony is any mount used by children.

The USPC focus on education, riding, knowledge, horsemanship, and responsibility. Pony Club builds a solid foundation of horsemanship skills that the members use throughout their lifetimes. Also, the USPC emphasizes safety, with stringent rules requiring the use of ASTM/SEI - certified helmets (which the Pony Club was instrumental in developing and implementing), conventional heeled boots, proper attire. Each member starts out at the lowest level, progressing as knowledge and skill increase.

All Pony Club members advance through a series of skill levels. Beginning with D level, which has three steps, Clubbers learn basic care, horsemanship, and are introduced to English riding. They must demonstrate a basic knowledge of horses, safety, tack and riding. It is also important, in fact required, that Pony Clubbers wear proper attire including helmets and boots. They must also work together with other club members as a team.

At the C level, which also has three steps, Pony Clubbers gain more independence, control, confidence in all phases of riding.

B level Clubbers have gained enough knowledge and experience to teach younger members.

At the H-A and A levels, dedicated Pony Clubbers are focusing on all aspects of horse management, teaching and training. The A level members have reached the top. Many continue in professional equine careers. Some Clubbers go on to achieve greatness in the Olympics and in other equestrian circles.

During mounted meetings members must follow USPC guidelines which include: proper preparation of the mount, grooming, tack safety and cleanliness, pre-ride safety checks by upper level members or group leader. Children are instructed in riding technique, control, safety and problems are addressed.

At Quiz Rallies, which are question and answer events to test the knowledge Clubbers have about horsemanship, members work as a team; presenting tack room set up, stall setup, and verbal knowledge. Safety is a focus of many questions as well as terminology and technique. Pony Club is committed to education, an important part of every meeting. Parents cannot help their children during any form of competition or preparation for it. Clubbers will be penalized if parents interfere. Clubbers like this!

You can find out more about Pony Club at the official web site of the USPC ( www.ponyclub.org). Also, there are many links to regional and local chapters that have a lot of information and pictures.

At the USPC official site there is information for parents and kids about Pony Club, upcoming events, becoming a member, making donations, volunteering. There is a chat room for kids, links, featured clubs or regions and more!

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