Dressage
Dressage is a highly disciplined equestrian sport that showcases the ultimate partnership and communication between horse and rider. It is often described as a form of dancing on horseback, where the duo performs a sequence of intricate movements designed to demonstrate the horse’s natural athletic ability and willingness to perform, as well as the rider’s skill in asking for and guiding these movements.
For more information on Dressage and to keep up to date on latest rules and regulations please go to the Pony Club Dressage Page
Please click on the link below for latest NWPC Branch information.
Endurance Riding
The ultimate test of stamina, partnership, and strategy in the equestrian world, challenging horse and rider to navigate long distances across varied and often challenging terrain. This sport is not simply about speed; it’s about the careful management of a horse’s pace and condition over courses that can range from 25 miles (40 kilometers) in novice events to 100 miles (160 kilometers) or more in competitions like the prestigious Tevis Cup.
Endurance riding stands out for its celebration of the enduring partnership between horse and rider, the physical and mental challenge of long-distance riding, and the profound respect for the health and welfare of the horse. It’s a sport that combines the thrill of competition with a deep appreciation for nature and the capabilities of these magnificent animals.
For more information on Endurance and to keep up to date on latest rules and regulations please go to the Pony Club Endurance Page
We do not currently have any members active in Endurance, but should you want any more information about how to take part please contact Lee Sterrey who is happy to answer all of your questions. Lee is a past Pony Club mum, her daughter started from scratch and went on to come 2nd in the Pony Club Grassroots Championship.
Eventing
Often referred to as horse trials, Eventing is a thrilling and diverse sport that tests the partnership between horse and rider across three distinct disciplines: dressage, cross-country, and show jumping often competed on the same day.
For more information on Eventing and to keep up to date on latest rules and regulations please go to the Pony Club Eventing Page
Please click on the link below for latest NWPC Branch information.
Mounted Games
A vibrant and exhilarating sport that showcases the incredible versatility and teamwork of horses and riders. It consists of a series of competitive games played at equestrian events, each designed to test the precision, speed, and agility of the competitors in a highly entertaining format.
Mounted Games stands out as a testament to the skillful bond between horse and rider, delivering a thrilling spectacle of speed, agility, and teamwork. It’s a sport that combines the joy of riding with the excitement of competition, creating an engaging experience for riders, horses, and spectators alike.
For more information on Mounted Games and to keep up to date on latest rules and regulations please go to the Pony Club Mounted Games Page
Please click on the link below for latest NWPC Branch information.
Polo
A fast-paced and strategic team sport played on horseback, where the objective is to score goals against an opposing team by driving a small white ball into the team’s goal using a long-handled mallet. Originating from ancient Persia, polo is one of the oldest known team sports, often referred to as the “Sport of Kings” due to its historic popularity among nobility and royalty.
Polo is a sport that captivates with its blend of speed, skill, and elegance, offering a unique combination of competitive athleticism and equestrian grace. It’s a celebration of the deep bond between horse and rider, played out on the lush green fields that are the sport’s iconic venues.
For more information on Polo and to keep up to date on latest rules and regulations please go to the Pony Club Polo Page
Our branch is not currently active in this sport but we do put on occasional taster rallies – look out for these on our calendar. Should you want any more information about how to take part please contact our Polo Manager, Tessa Collett who is happy to answer all of your questions. Tessa, is a current Pony Club mum, past NWPC member and runs Offchurch Polo Club with other family members.
Polocrosse
A dynamic and thrilling equestrian sport that captivates players and spectators alike with its unique blend of speed, strategy, and teamwork. Originating in Australia as a way to improve riding skills and horse handling, Polocrosse has grown into an internationally played sport, known for its fast action and competitive spirit.
Polocrosse stands as a testament to the bond between horse and rider, demanding not just physical prowess but a deep, intuitive connection with their equine partners. It’s a sport that combines the elegance of equestrian disciplines with the strategic depth and excitement of a ball game, making it a unique and captivating experience for participants and spectators alike.
For more information on Polocrosse and to keep up to date on latest rules and regulations please go to the Pony Club Polocrosse Page
Please click on the link below for latest NWPC Branch information.
Pony Racing
A vibrant and exciting introduction to the world of horse racing for young riders, offering them the opportunity to experience the thrill of racing in a controlled and supportive environment. This sport serves as a foundational step into the racing industry, helping to cultivate the next generation of jockeys and racing enthusiasts by providing them with hands-on experience in a real racing atmosphere.
Pony racing is more than just a sport; it’s an essential developmental experience for young equestrians, offering a mix of fun, education, and competition. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the future of horse racing by nurturing the talents and passions of the next generation of riders and racing professionals.
For more information on Pony Racing and to keep up to date on latest rules and regulations please go to the Pony Club Pony Racing Page
Our branch is not currently active in this sport but should you want more information about how to take part please contact our Pony Racing Manager, Hannah Mahon, who is happy to answer all of your questions. Hannah is a current Pony Club mum, past NWPC member and National Hunt Racing jockey.
Show Jumping
An exhilarating sport where horse and rider work in unison to clear a series of obstacles, including verticals, spreads, and combinations, arranged in a complex course within an arena. The essence of show jumping lies in its combination of speed, power, and precision, as competitors must complete the course within a certain time limit, aiming to knock down as few obstacles as possible.
Show jumping stands out as a discipline that beautifully illustrates the peak of horse and rider teamwork. It demands the utmost in athleticism, strategy, and mutual trust, making it a thrilling component of the equestrian world.
For more information on Show Jumping and to keep up to date on latest rules and regulations please go to the Pony Club Show Jumping Page
Please click on the link below for latest NWPC Branch information.
Tetrathlon
A captivating sport that embodies the spirit of versatility, endurance, and precision. It evolved from the modern pentathlon, designed to simulate the diverse skills required by a 19th-century cavalry officer.
Participants in a Tetrathlon competition face a rigorous challenge that spans across four varied disciplines, each testing different aspects of athleticism and horsemanship.
Tetrathlon offers a unique blend of physical and mental challenges, requiring athletes to excel in diverse skills. It’s not just about the individual strengths in swimming, running, shooting, or riding; it’s about the ability to combine these skills, manage the transition between disciplines, and maintain focus and endurance throughout the competition. Tetrathlon competitions are a true test of multi-disciplinary athleticism, celebrating the spirit of adventure and versatility in the equestrian world.
For more information on Tetrahlon and to keep up to date on latest rules and regulations please go to the Pony Club Tetrathlon Page
Please click on the link below for latest NWPC Branch information.
Area 7 Qualifiers and Championships:
Dates: these are available on the calendar, here is a quick look summary:
Team Selection Criteria:
Please take time to check the Criteria for Area Team Selection page for member expectations and considerations.