Meet the Team

Junior Mounted Games Manager – Julie Tilley

Julie is a BHS Accredited level 3 Coach and has been coaching within the Pony Club for over 25 years, She has been involved in mounted games within the branch for over 15 years, travelling throughout the UK and Europe whilst supporting her daughter in this sport. She believes that building a solid foundation is key, doing the little things right makes the big things right – with a commitment to life long learning.

Her passion for coaching ranges from younger members, though to members taking their efficiency tests, coaching teams taking part in the horse and pony care competition and the national quiz. As well as coaching, she is a keen volunteer for the Pony Club and is well known in the branch as “camp Mum” back in 2019 Julie was invited to attend the Royal Windsor Horse Show where she was awarded her Cuthbert award in recognition of her volunteering and commitment.

Junior Mounted Games Trainer – Beth Palmer

Growing up in the Atherstone Hunt PC, I competed in many disciplines over the years , but in the end my passion was in the mounted games, where I represented the branch at HOYS and in the England team.

Since the age of 15, I have been committed to giving back to the pony club and have supported on all levels from novice to seniors including trips to hoys for many years. More recently I have been training the junior A and B team and enjoy seeing the children grow in confidence.

With a full time role in childcare, I see the benefit and wide range of skills that being in a competitive team environment instils in individuals. My favourite part of the role is being part of a child’s journey from total novice to a competitive junior.

Senior Mounted Games Manager – Sarah Ballard

Senior Mounted Games Trainer – Matt Clingo

When I finished Pony Club Games at 15, I started to train the younger members. I trained the junior B team first and then started to train the A Team.  In the 15 years I trained the Junior A Team, we won the Championships an impressive 5 Times!

I started to train the Senior A team in 2023 and we accomplished everything we set out to, including qualifying for the Horse of the Year Show and finishing as reserve champions.

I work on the principle of practice, practice, practice! Practice and consistency in the team are both really important to maintain a good standard and be in with a chance of winning. The more you do, the more you and your pony come together and both know where you need to be before it happens.

Getting great results helps members believe they can do it and gives them the confidence boost they need. I’m really hoping to get to hoys again this year!

Matt Clingo