The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. 4041 Iron Works Parkway Lexington, Kentucky 40511-8462 (859) 254-7669 | www.ponyclub.org
Pony Club Mission Statement The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. is an educational organization that builds the foundations of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and the care of horses and ponies while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members.
H O R S E
Pony Club Core Values orsemanship with respect to healthcare, nutrition, stable management, handling, and riding a mount safely, correctly, and with confidence rganized teamwork, including cooperation, communication, responsibility, leadership, mentoring, teaching, and fostering a supportive, yet competitive, environment
espect for the horse and self through horsemanship, for land through land conservation, and for others through service and teamwork
ervice by providing an opportunity for members, parents, and others to support the Pony Club program locally, regionally, and nationally through volunteerism
ducation at an individual pace to achieve personal goals and expand knowledge through the teaching of others
The Pony Club Pledge
“As a member of the United States Pony Clubs, 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.”
Allpony.com Allpony.com, owned by the United States Pony Clubs, is an online educational platform that teaches horse care, horsemanship, and riding skills through interactive content, such as courses, quizzes, and games. Visit www.allpony.com
Stay Connected to USPC Online /USPonyClubs @unitedstatesponyclubs /UnitedStatesPonyClubs /company/ponyclub https://multibriefs.com/optin.php?uspc
Discover all that the United States Pony Clubs has to offer. The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is an educational organization with a globally respected program dedicated to teaching horse care, riding, and safe horsemanship to all ages and experience levels. USPC members learn far more than how to ride—they develop confidence, responsibility, and leadership skills through education, all while having fun with horses and building lifelong friendships. USPC’s proven curriculum prioritizes the well-being of the horse and develops knowledgeable equestrians. Members also develop essential life skills, such as teamwork, goal-setting, problem-solving, and effective communication, which supports success in a member’s school, during their career, and in their communities. Through hands-on learning, volunteer opportunities, and leadership pathways, USPC prepares its members not only for success in the barn, but for success in life.
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Membership Options Learn more at bit.ly/intro-to-uspc-membership
Participating Memberships Participating Membership is an option for individuals who would like to ride and enjoy the fun, educational offerings of USPC clubs and centers. National dues can be found on the USPC website. Regional and local dues vary. Ask your local Pony Club leader (either a District Commissioner or Center Administrator) for details. Participating members gain an impressive depth of knowledge in equine health, fitness, nutrition, veterinary care, stable management, and the correct use of equipment. Participating members share their knowledge with other members as they learn and have opportunities to get more involved through leadership positions.
Club/Center Membership
A USPC Club/Center Membership is the most comprehensive way to begin, or continue, your journey with horses as you learn and become the best equestrian you can be. Those who wish to participate in mounted and unmounted meetings, clinics, rallies, certifications, or other special opportunities do so by becoming a member through a local Pony Club or Pony Club Riding Center. Club/center members can focus on a discipline of their choice and progress through the certification levels at their own pace.
National Membership
National Membership provides an opportunity for former members 18 years or older, with a C-2 Horse Management certification or above, to be a member of Pony Club on a national level without a specific region, club, or center affiliation. These members will have the opportunity to share their passion of Pony Club with others and have the chance to ride with other clubs/centers, rally in other regions, compete at USPC Festival Championships and pursue national-level certifications. National Members pay dues directly to USPC, instead of at the local and regional levels. To participate in club, center, or regional activities, they must pay-as-they-go.
Professional Memberships A Professional Membership is an option for riding instructors, camp directors and staff, professors, teachers, homeschool parents, and other educators interested in ready-to-teach educational materials for their students.
Professional Membership
A USPC Professional Membership includes the following benefits: organized lesson plans for both mounted and unmounted lessons; access to Pony Club IQ articles relevant to lesson plans; an online profile; and Pony Club E-News, with information about additional opportunities for riders to continue their equine education. This membership option has a 365-day term based on the anniversary of the join date. Professional Members may purchase additional educational packages that provide access to comprehensive materials to help teach basic horse care and riding skills to students. Add-on packages include Achievement Badge Program workbooks and guides, introductory-level certification materials, and complimentary Pony Club IQ E-Memberships for your students. In addition, as a longtime equine education industry leader, USPC now offers the Equine Management Curriculum to schools and other educational organizations to use as part of their courses. This educational package is for anyone looking for classroom resources to teach equine science topics or who wants their students to benefit from a reputable and safe curriculum.
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THE UNITED STATES PONY CLUBS, INC. | ponyclub.org
Membership Options Learn more at bit.ly/intro-to-uspc-membership
Online Memberships Online Membership is a great option for those who want to maintain a connection to Pony Club, along with online access to Pony Club resources. There are three types: Pony Club IQ E-Membership, Alumni Membership, and Friend Membership.
Pony Club IQ E-Membership
Unlock the world of horses with the Pony Club IQ E-Membership—an annual online membership designed for curious horse lovers. Dive into content on horse health, care, and management developed by experts at TheHorse.com and reviewed by veterinarians. Pony Club IQ is organized to follow USPC’s respected curriculum and Standards of Proficiency—giving you a structured learning path. You will also receive access to Pony Club publications online, along with select offers from Pony Club sponsors. It’s perfect for learning, whether you’re exploring the USPC curriculum before joining a club/center or eager to expand your horse knowledge on your own.
Alumni Membership
Alumni Membership is designed for former participating members of all ages who want to stay connected to the Pony Club community and support USPC’s mission. As an Alumni Member, you can proudly represent Pony Club wherever you go with your exclusive Alumni pin and enjoy online access to Pony Club publications. This annual membership lets you continue your Pony Club journey and remain part of the Pony Club family.
Friend Membership
Friend Membership is perfect for individuals, age 18 and up, who want to proudly support Pony Club and the impact of its educational programs.This annual membership is ideal for volunteers, parents and other family members, and equine enthusiasts. Become a Friend Member and wear your USPC Friend pin at any time. In addition, you will receive online access to Pony Club publications.
Supporting Memberships Corporate Memberships A Corporate Membership is an option for individuals 18 years or older and is required for Pony Club leaders. This membership is designed for Pony Club’s leaders, instructors, professionals, and others who are actively involved in working with members at local Pony Clubs and Riding Centers or engaged with Pony Club events, national committees, and governance. It also connects local leaders/ volunteers to Pony Club’s national administration by enabling them to vote at USPC’s annual Meeting of the Corporation or by proxy. You will receive a subscription to the print magazine, special updates throughout the year, and access to an online directory. Both Corporate Membership options, Annual and Life, show that you are a dedicated supporter of the United States Pony Clubs.
Annual Corporate Membership
Annual Corporate Memberships may be purchased online on a yearly basis.
Life Corporate Membership
Life Corporate Membership is a one-time purchase that lasts for an individual’s life. Many alumni and longtime volunteers stay involved in Pony Club through the benefits of this membership. Life Corporate Members receive a Life Member pin and a certificate. All Life Corporate Membership dues go directly to the Pony Club Endowment Fund to support future generations of Pony Club members.
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How to Learn and Grow in Pony Club
must have an increase in maturity, knowledge, and riding skills. Members must be eligible for these certifications and apply through the National Office. Certifications are organized at the regional level and administered by National Examiners. These levels include H-B (advancedintermediate) through A (advanced).
Standards of Proficiency & Certifications
The United States Pony Clubs’ Standards of Proficiency provide a core curriculum for individualized instruction. The Standards describe a clear progression of skills in riding and horse care (known as Horse Management in Pony Club). They also provide opportunities for goal setting, as members are encouraged to progress through those skills at a pace that is comfortable for them. Clubs and centers use the Standards as a plan for instruction programs. Certifications are awarded to recognize achievements and encourage members to gain confidence and independence and to practice good safety habits while working with horses and ponies. Practicing, teaching, and testing are the best ways to accomplish this purpose. A Pony Club member is ready to test at the next level when he or she is able to perform the requirements for that level in
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Horse Management
a supervised testing situation. After passing one test, a member continues to receive instruction until a greater degree of proficiency is achieved. The first five levels of Horse Management and riding for members are achieved through evaluations organized and administered by the local club or center. These levels are D-1 (beginner) through C-2 (intermediate). At the upper certification levels, members
THE UNITED STATES PONY CLUBS, INC. | ponyclub.org
Pony Club is unique because its educational programs place equal emphasis on teaching horse care fundamentals, riding skills, and team participation with sportsmanship. Pony Club is dedicated to developing knowledgeable, competent, responsible, and caring horse people. All clubs and centers have a Horse Management program designed to teach and provide knowledge as members progress through the certifications in accordance with the Pony Club Standards of Proficiency. The style of Horse Management instruction varies depending on each club or center, however, every program is developed based on the Standards, and the result is a common level of knowledge at any given level. Pony Club prepares members for the responsibilities of horse ownership by judging Horse Management skills during Pony Club rally competitions and at testings. At rallies, the competitors are judged within their respective certification levels on their knowledge and application of sound, practical horse-care principles acquired through Horse Management instruction and
regular practice. The evaluation of competitors’ performances at rallies reinforces the information taught at the club or center level. The emphasis of Horse Management judging is always on the care and safety of both horse and rider. Horse Management instruction and experiences in Pony Club are designed to encourage inquiry into the nature of horse care and safety based on logic and practical reasoning.
Safety Safety is an important part of Pony Club’s foundation. Pony Club was the first equine organization to require its members to wear safety helmets. The core values regarding safety reach into every aspect of the organization. Volunteers and
staff make safety a priority. For mounted instructional meetings, Pony Club safety practices must be followed. All members are required to wear an approved riding helmet and medical armband or bracelet. While riding, conventional riding footwear with a heel, such as leather or rubber riding boots, Jodhpur boots, or the equivalent, is required. When unmounted around horses, acceptable footwear is a shoe that is securely fastened, entirely enclosed, covers the ankle, and is thick-soled and in good condition. Canvas or cloth shoes of any kind are not allowed. Pony Club teaches safety first. The wellbeing of members and their mounts is of primary importance. To this end, the program for all levels emphasizing preventative techniques, common sense, and daily routines within a reasonable framework of expectations known as the Standards of Proficiency.
Mounted Meetings A mounted meeting is where members attend a lesson together and ride in groups based on their skill level. The basics are continually emphasized and taught, but fun is part of lessons at all levels. Clubs and centers try to organize a program that is fun, educational, and interesting to members. Mounted meetings are often structured so that members who are serious about setting and pursuing their goals may practice at their own level of intensity. Beginning members are offered lots of fun mixed in with educational opportunities. Experienced youth members or knowledgeable adults will assist members in preparing for certifications. Many clubs and centers set up a program in which an advanced member is assigned to mentor a new member. The advanced member may demonstrate proper handling, tying, and grooming. Lessons about tack fit, tacking up, and safety (including the all-important safety check, supervised by an adult) are reviewed before the member begins riding. The advanced member benefits from the teaching experience and
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from watching the progress of the beginner members. Mounted meetings differ greatly from one club or center to another, but all instruction emphasizes safety, control, and the development of fundamentally sound basics.
Unmounted Meetings Unmounted meetings are set up for all members to come, but usually without their horses or ponies. These meetings are often structured around horse care instruction. Examples of topics include: Feed (types of feed and cost)
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Shoeing (types of shoes, process of shoeing or trimming) Vet visits and vaccinations Deworming and product use Temperature, pulse, and respiratory rate Types of tack and identification of equipment Breeds of horses and ponies Setup and safety at competitions Grooming, braiding, and turnout inspection Tack care, fitting, types, construction, and use Trailer safety
THE UNITED STATES PONY CLUBS, INC. | ponyclub.org
Conformation/suitability First aid Breeding/foaling Stable manners Understanding different equine disciplines Identification of horse anatomy Analysis of barns and stables Pony Club members are known for their responsible, complete approach to horse care. Members should be proud of their horse care skills, which sets the United States Pony Clubs apart from all other equestrian organizations.
Pony Club Offers a Variety of Programs and Special Opportunities National Events
workshops, demonstrations, USPC Festival and seminars Imagine a week surrounded that deepen by horses, learning from the best, understanding of riding every day, and sharing horsemanship, unforgettable moments with stable management, fellow horse lovers. That’s the equine health, experience of the USPC Festival. and cutting-edge Held every other year at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, techniques. With so many options, Ky., the week-long USPC Festival attendees can tailor draws thousands of Pony Club their experience members, families, volunteers, to match their and equestrians from across the interests and skill country—and USPC welcomes everyone to join in the fun. Whether level, making every day of Festival an you’re a rider, a lifelong horse opportunity to grow enthusiast, or simply curious about and learn. USPC, we invite you to immerse For young Pony yourself in the action, energy, and Club members, camaraderie that define Festival. The USPC Festival features two D Camp offers the ultimate introduction to Festival. Designed exciting components: Education for riders ages 6 to 12 through the and Championships. D-2 certification, D Camp provides The Education sessions offer small-group instruction, twicean unparalleled opportunity to daily riding, unmounted learning learn directly from Olympians, in the barn, and the unforgettable Pony Club experts, and leaders experience of caring for a horse at in the equine industry. Mounted one of the world’s most renowned clinics allow participants to ride equestrian venues. twice daily, exploring a rich The second part of Festival variety of disciplines, including showcases USPC National Eventing cross-country, Show Championships, where members Jumping, Dressage, Hunter Seat compete as teams representing Equitation, Mounted Games, USPC’s 40 regions. Championships Polocrosse, Western Dressage, feature eight core disciplines, along Trail, groundwork, and natural horsemanship. Highlights include with additional Open competitions, such as Gymkhana and Trail. the exhilarating mock foxhunt, Riders demonstrate not only where USPC members can ride across the stunning grounds of the their riding ability, but also their Horse Management knowledge— Kentucky Horse Park. Unmounted education is equally working together as teams and building skills in communication, compelling, offering hands-on
teamwork, and mutual respect. Throughout the week, participants, families, and spectators can explore the bustling trade fair, cheer on competitors, watch the mock foxhunt, and soak in the unique energy of Pony Club at its best. Festival is filled with excitement as skills are honed, friendships are forged, goals are achieved, and memories are made to last a lifetime. It’s where youth and adults celebrate all of their hard work and their partnership with their horse. With multiple disciplines running over several days, countless learning opportunities, and a welcoming community united by a love of horses, the USPC Festival is more than an event—it’s an experience you’ll never forget...and one you’ll want to attend again and again.
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USPC Convention
Set in a welcoming and familyfriendly hotel and hosted by one of USPC’s regions each year, the USPC Convention draws Pony Club members and families, leaders and volunteers, and nonmember equestrian enthusiasts from across the country—and all are welcome. You’ll be immersed in an atmosphere buzzing with energy and inspiration, conversation, and the shared passion for horses. Education is at the heart of Convention, with dozens of hands-on workshops, interactive demonstrations, and unique experiences, such as the Anatomy Room, the Horse Management Room, and the Research Project Fair, where science and horse care are on display. Imagine learning from leading experts all in one place during a packed four-day schedule! Younger attendees have opportunities to engage in age-appropriate activities, while aspiring leaders and USPC leadership can explore professional development and leadership workshops. With so many options, every day brings a new chance to grow, deepen your knowledge
of horses, and meet experts from across the equestrian world. Enjoy the illustrious Saturday Night Banquet with awards and a keynote speaker, celebrate with award winners at special meals and receptions, and browse the trade fair and the silent auction for equestrian goodies. By the end of the event, you’ll leave inspired, enriched, and part of a vibrant Pony Club family—ready to take your journey with horses to the next level.
States Dressage Federation and the United States Eventing Association, to recognize members who compete at events within that discipline as well as Pony Club rallies, with awards available across multiple achievement levels. The USPC Foxhunting Recognition Program offers both unmounted and mounted components, allowing members to show off their knowledge and skills out in the field and earn tangible awards for their participation.
Programs
USPC finds rewarding excellence from its members important, especially since it reinforces the values that Pony Club tries to instill in its members, including trying new things in their educational journey with horses; working toward a goal, such as doing well at the USPC Championships; enjoying equestrian pursuits, which may mean trying Foxhunting for the first time or enjoying a specific breed of choice and that breed’s related programs; and being a good steward to horses and the land used by equestrians. USPC also offers awards during Festival Championships for riding and horse care skills.
Recognition Programs
USPC offers a variety of Recognition Programs that celebrate the active participation and accomplishments of its members alongside partner breed and discipline organizations. Through these programs, Pony Club members can earn points and receive formal recognition for their involvement in activities, such as lessons, clinics, preps, rallies, and certifications, with each program tailored to the specific breed or discipline it supports. In discipline‑specific programs, Pony Club partners with national organizations, such as the United
Awards
USPC Disciplines USPC offers the following as competitive disciplines: Dressage Eventing Gymkhana Horse Management Mounted Games Polocrosse Quiz Show Jumping Tetrathlon 10
Trail Western Dressage USPC also provides information and opportunities in: Distance Riding Driving Foxhunting Hunter Seat Equitation Polo Vaulting
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International Exchanges
Pony Club international exchanges offer each participant a cultural experience with a competitive edge. Exchanges are offered in Dressage (virtual), Eventing (Inter-Pacific Exchange), Foxhunting, Mounted Games, Quiz (in-person and virtual), Show Jumping (virtual) and Tetrathlon.
Virtual Competitions
Imagine testing your skills and competing on a national stage without leaving your own barn! USPC Virtual Competitions let USPC members of all ages and certification levels participate in Dressage, Show Jumping, Trail, and Western Dressage from the comfort of their home facility. Rather than traveling, riders record their own performances, upload video entries, and receive expert judging and feedback—all part of an encouraging and accessible experience available during non‑Festival years. Certificates and awards shipped directly to participants help it feel just like a traditional competition with ribbons, recognition, and pride in their ride.
Member Achievement Program This year‑long challenge lets members earn points for everything they already love doing in Pony Club—from attending lessons, rallies, and camps to earning certifications and participating in regional or national events. Points are tracked within age divisions so you’re competing with peers at your level, and as you climb the leaderboard, you unlock digital certificates, commemorative pins, and special prizes for reaching
milestones—bringing recognition to your dedication, hard work, and growth. In addition, a special awards ceremony is held for point leaders of each division who attend the USPC Convention. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned Pony Club member, this program offers recognition for your Pony Club experience and your dedication to the program, inspiring you to learn more, do more, and show the world what you can achieve.
College Scholarships
Dreaming about college and want support to get there? USPC’s College Scholarship program helps Pony Club members turn that dream into reality by rewarding academic excellence, leadership, horsemanship, and dedication— both in and out of the barn. Each year, USPC awards multiple scholarships— ranging from general academic and achievement awards to specialty honors in areas like the arts, land conservation, Dressage and Eventing, and outstanding leadership—giving members a real chance to earn financial support for their higher education. Recipients are selected based on merit, essays, USPC certifications, and demonstrated commitment to Pony Club values, and past winners have been honored for their academic and equestrian achievements and for roles
within their communities. USPC scholarships recognize your hard work and help invest in your future success.
Special Opportunities When you join USPC, you open the door to extraordinary opportunities that take your horsemanship and Pony Club experience to the next level. Members can participate in special invitational challenges, such as the historic Prince Philip Cup Mounted Games competition, test their knowledge at the USHJA Horsemanship Quiz Challenge, and even represent Pony Club
at top events, such as the USEF Pony Jumper Championships at the Kentucky Horse Park. For curious minds, the USPC Research Project Fair invites riders to explore equine questions and share discoveries with peers at the annual Convention. These unique opportunities go beyond everyday lessons and rallies, offering unforgettable experiences, personal growth, and memorable achievements that help you connect with other dedicated equestrians from across the country.
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Learn More!
ponyclub.org (859) 254-7669