I’ve wanted to be a member of the United States Pony Club ever since I discovered it long ago, just a few years after I was too old to participate! Over the years (ugh, decades actually) I looked into “Old People’s Riding Club” and other options, but they weren’t quite organized enough, or weren’t directed at the type of riding and education I wanted, and/or I wasn’t quite ready.
Several years ago Pony Club did start the Horsemasters program for adults. (They just refer to adult members as Senior members now.) This was my way in! Alas it took a few years for them to organize, I wasn’t near a club that had a housemaster program, and again, I didn’t get around to it.
But I did support Pony Club by way of Whisper the wonder horse. Whisper has taken care of many Pony Club kids over the last decade, and they have loved and cared for him. It’s been wonderful to see these young women grow into beautiful adults who appreciate teamwork, love horses, and aren’t afraid to work. And as for Whisper: He’s kind of famous. (I actually overheard a kid telling another kid that one day. ❤️)
After much hemming and hawing, and trying to figure who and what I’m paying for, I finally did it! I hope to have some interesting posts to share my experiences. I’d like to actually earn certifications! I’m a card-carrying Pony Club Member!
Portola Valley pony club website and @portolavalleyponyclub
“As a member of the United States Pony Clubs, Inc., I stand for the best in sportsmanship as well as in horsemanship. I shall compete for the enjoyment of the game well played and take winning or losing in stride, remembering that without good manners and good temper, sport loses its cause for being. I shall endeavor to maintain the best tradition of the ancient and noble skill of horsemanship, always treating my horse with consideration due a partner.”
— The Pony Club Pledge