The The Pony Club is divided into 19 geographical areas across the UK, and Garth South is proud to be part of Area 13. As members of Garth South, riders have the opportunity to compete both within and on behalf of Area 13, as well as take part in a wider range of activities beyond our own branch. This includes access to Area 13 events and rallies, along with those run by neighbouring branches, offering even more opportunities to train, compete, and socialise.
Our membership spans a wide region, with families joining us from areas including Farnham, Reading, Basingstoke, and Camberley. To best support our members, we hold rallies at a variety of venues conveniently located around the North Hampshire and Berkshire borders.
At Garth South, we run multiple rallies each month to suit a range of interests and abilities. These include our regular mounted working rallies, unmounted horsemanship sessions focused on horse care and knowledge, and discipline-specific rallies tailored to the key equestrian sports we support as a branch.
To ensure sessions run smoothly and make the most of each rider’s time, we ask that all participants are ready to ride at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. As a volunteer-led charity, Pony Club relies on the support of its members and families, and we greatly appreciate parents lending a hand where possible—whether that’s helping to keep venues tidy, clearing up after sessions, or assisting with general rally organisation.
Garth South Squads / Teams / Sections
We welcome riders of all ages up to 25 and all abilities. We work with our instructors to try and match you to the best group for both friendship and abilities.
Currently we have the following groups-
Mini-Minis
Adored by all and normally adorning small fluffy ponies, these riders are from complete beginners to just off the lead rein.
Minis
Taking the next step up and beginning to focus in detail on different disciplines and the theory behind being a successful rider and carer. Normally jumping from 40cm to 70cm.
Grassroots
Those jumping 70cm to 80cm
Novices
Those leaping over 90cm
Seniors
All those competing over 1m
What to Wear at Rallies & Competitions
Looking smart, safe, and well-prepared is an important part of Pony Club. The following guide explains what riders (and ponies!) should wear for different activities at Garth South.
Training Rallies & Working Rallies
Pony Club Member
- Hard hat (to current Pony Club standards) with black or dark blue silk
- Riding boots (long boots or jodhpur boots, with chaps if preferred)
- Gloves
- Garth South / Pony Club sweatshirt or polo shirt
- Plain jodhpurs or breeches (any colour)
- Hair tied back neatly
- Chaps – optional
- Body protector – optional (unless specified for certain activities)
Your Pony
- Clean, well-fitting tack
- Pony should be well groomed
- Check stitching carefully, especially reins, girths, girth straps, and stirrup leathers
Pony Club Tests (E–D Tests)
For E and D Tests, riders should be turned out as for a working rally.
- Pony Club polo shirt and sweatshirt are acceptable
- Dress should follow training rally guidelines
- Pony turnout should be clean and tidy
Efficiency Tests & Competitions (D+ and above)
Pony Club Member
- Approved hard hat (must be checked and tagged) with chinstrap fastened
- Black or dark blue hat silk
- White shirt with Pony Club tie or stock
- Riding jacket with Pony Club badge (test felt on left lapel)
- Light-coloured jodhpurs or breeches
- Long boots or jodhpur boots with chaps
- Gloves
- Hair neat and secured (hairnet recommended)
- Body protector – recommended (discipline dependent)
- Whip – optional
- Spurs – only with instructor permission
Weather note: Warm and waterproof layers may be worn when needed—we want riders safe and comfortable.
Your Pony
- Clean, well-fitting tack
- Pony well groomed
- Plaiting is optional but will improve turnout marks
Cross-Country Rallies
Pony Club Member
- Approved hard hat without a fixed peak
- Hat silk: WPC Blue & Gold, or black/navy
- Body protector (compulsory) – must meet BETA 2018 Level 3 standard
- Air jackets may be worn in addition (optional)
- Riding boots
- Gloves
- WPC cross-country base layer
- Jodhpurs or breeches
- Hair tied back
- Chaps – optional
Your Pony
- Clean, well-fitting tack
- All stitching checked carefully for safety
Competitions (General Guidance)
- Always check specific rules with the organiser
- For dressage:
- No coloured browbands, martingales, boots, or bandages
- Light jodhpurs and gloves required
- For show jumping:
- For eventing/horse trials:
- Body protector is compulsory for cross-country
Unmounted & Social Rallies
- No need for riding clothes, but dress tidy and practical
- Jeans, wellington boots, Pony Club sweatshirt, and warm layers are suitable
- Bring your riding hat
- Hair tied back; no jewellery
- Dress for the weather—yards can be cold and muddy
- Bring your Pony Club Manual, notebook, and pen
Manners & Etiquette
We expect all members and families to follow Pony Club values:
- Arrive clean, tidy, and well presented
- Ensure ponies and tack are clean
- Clear up all droppings and mess
- Help pack away at the end of rallies where possible
- Be respectful and thank organisers and instructors
A positive attitude and good manners make rallies enjoyable for everyone and reflect the true spirit of Pony Club.