General Working Rallies
Working Rallies are thought of as the “backbone of The Pony Club” and consist of group lessons of ridden instruction with highly qualified instructors. The sessions are designed to be fun whilst also improving a wide range of skills and abilities with show jumping, pole work and cross country.
All members are encouraged to attend and group are arranged around individual ability. The sessions are split into two phases, firstly focused on warm-up and flatwork progressing jumping (or poles).
These rallies are a fantastic place to start for beginners and those new to the branch due to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, whilst also providing a great place for the long standing members to improve too.
Achievement Badges
The Pony Club has a wide selection of badges that can be attained, ranging from grooming to camping, beach riding to countryside access. A cloth badge is awarded once a member has met the required standard for the badge which can be sewn onto the PC sweatshirt.
We run regular achievement badge rallies and encourage all members to come and join us. These rallies are a great way to learn and make friends and are very popular amongst our members.
On gaining 21 achievement badges, or 14 mini badges, special Gold Awards are presented at Presentation Evening in November.
Pony Club Tests & Training
The Pony Club offers a series of tests that encourage a member to improve their knowledge of riding and stable management. There are 9 Pony Club Tests beginning with E up to the most difficult A test. After attaining a test, a certificate will be issued along with a felt disc to be worn behind the PC badge on your jacket. The Pony Club test pathway is a valued mark of proficiency in the equestrian industry and unlocks many opportunities, including international Pony Club teams and the Pony Club coaching pathway.
We will be organising training courses throughout the year to support our members to achieve The Pony Club Tests.
Summer Camp
Each summer, usually in August, the committee arrange a 3 day camp (sadly we do not actually camp at the venue) with a packed agenda of activities for everyone who takes part.
All those who take part have an opportunity to really work on their techniques for cross-county and other areas of riding. We all cross our fingers and toes for good weather!
Here’s what some of our members have to say about camp
“Even if you think you know everything, you
always learn something new everyday.” Erin
Lily “it is great fun, and I gained a lot of
confidence especially on the cross country