WHPC aims to enter teams and individuals in as many competitions, at all levels, as possible throughout the year.
To be considered for selection, riders must:
Membership & Eligibility
Teams & Selection
WHPC may enter:
Teams consist of 3 or 4 members, depending on the event and discipline
We will always field the strongest team(s) available
Volunteering Requirement
Competition Results
Results must be verifiable
Competition Dates
Those applying for consideration must be available for the relevant Championship date for their respective discipline, considering possible overnight stays.
If a member is keen to compete at an Area/Regional competition but is not available for the Championship, we may be able to, number of team entrants permitting, enter them as an Individual. If this is the case, you must make us aware at the outset of your application.
Finance
Once a member has been selected for a Team or as an Individual, the place is only confirmed on receipt of the entry fee. This will be facilitated via the usual bookings system of the organisers choice. No entry fees can be refunded without a vet or doctors certificate and there is usually a cut off date for this.
If the Team/Individual qualifies for Championships, the club will pay the Championship entry fee provided the member has fulfilled the expected volunteering requirements in Branch and at Area competitions. Any additional costs, stabling, transport, accommodation etc. are to be covered by the member. However, in the instance that a member cannot attend the Championship after the closing date for entries we will expect the entry fee to be paid back to the club.
WHPC will provide a Team Trainer for any Area/Regional Events where we have a full team competing. If this is the case, it is compulsory for all selected Team members to take part in the course walk with the trainer. You may take your own trainer in addition to the selected Woodland Team Trainer.
We will not provide a Team Trainer for events where we are sending Individuals or for a Composite Team. If this is the case, members are either responsible for making their own arrangements using a suitable trainer or request to the DC to co-ordinate with another Area 12 Pony Club that is attending for the member(s) to utilise their trainer and pay an equal share of the trainer costs whatever that may be. It is not compulsory to take a Trainer with you to an event. Individuals/Composite Teams are welcome to contact the DC to discuss Trainer requirements.
The DC will attend Area/Regional events if able to do so. Should this not be possible, a Team Manager will be appointed for the day (who is not the Team Trainer or a Parent) as a requirement of entry and the Area Rep notified. Competing members will be advised of this and all queries on the day should be directed through this representative.
If a member is unable to put themselves forward for selection due to the financial constraints, they are encouraged to discuss their position (in strict confidence) with the DC and Treasurer to see if WHPC could subsidise some of the costs. .
Fitness
Horse and Rider fitness is crucial not only to the success of the competitor but also the safety and wellbeing of the Horse and Rider. Riders must notify the DC, Team Trainer or Team Manager of any change in their own health or fitness status, and/or that of their horse/pony or veterinary/medical management immediately, where such a change could impact performance.
Your horse will need ‘down’ days both prior to and after competitions to prepare/recover. It is not only the physical but the mental toll on your horse that needs to be taken into consideration when completing MER’s and qualifiers.
Vaccinations
Ponies must be vaccinated, and verified by branch, in accordance with the latest PC requirements.
Training
Appropriate discipline training sessions will be provided which you must attend as frequently as possible. Dressage and show jumping sessions for example will be applicable to those doing either the pure discipline or Eventing. The more you do, the better the team dynamics.
Team Spirit
WHPC expects Riders and their supporters to have a good attitude and participate in all the required activities within the branch, both ridden and helping. We ask that members and parents/guardians have read and understood the Pony Club Code of Conduct https://resources.pcuk.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/updated-code-of-conduct-for-members-final-version-13092022.pdf
Types of MERs Required
There are two types of MERs:
Both must be met.
Final Thoughts from the DC
We hope these notes help you feel confident, prepared and proud when representing WHPC Pony Club.
If you are ever unsure about anything, please ask the DC, team manager or trainers, we are always happy to help and want you to have a fantastic and positive competition experience.