United States Pony Club is one of the most popular equestrian based groups in the world. It exists in 30 countries across the world, and there are over 12,000 members in the US alone. You might be wondering what makes Pony Club so popular, or maybe just what Pony Club is. Maybe, this will clear things up for you. Pony Club welcomes kids from as young as 4 and 5 to up to 21, and was founded "to develop and encourage among children a knowledge of horsemanship including the care of horses, to encourage fair and friendly competition, to develop understanding of, and sympathy for the horse by its rider, and by these and other means, to help to develop in young riders strength of character, alert minds and sound bodies."

The members compete in sports such as dressage, eventing, show jumping, mounted games, tetrathlon, quiz, vaulting, foxhunting, and polocrosse. They also attend "unmounted" meetings where they learn about topics like feeding, shoeing and veterinary care, just to name a few.

Pony Club members may also take "ratings," which are examinations that test their knowledge as well as riding abilities. The members work their way up from the "D" level, to the "A" which is the highest rating a Pony Clubber can attain, and is considered a very advanced level.

Just think, both David and Karen O'Connor were Pony Clubbers!




USPC Mission Statement

The Mission of The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) is to provide a program for youth which teaches riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, thereby developing responsibility, moral judgment, leadership and self-confidence.

USPC Guiding Beliefs

• USPC is an educational organization which progressively develops the well-rounded horseperson.
• The well-rounded horseperson is capable of riding safely and tactfully on the flat, over fences, and in the open.
• Knowledgeable care of horses and ponies (horse management) is basic to the well-rounded horseperson.
• USPC is committed to the well-being of the horse.
• Fair and friendly competitions develop teamwork and sportsmanship.
• Fun and friendship are part of Pony Club.
• USPC requires parental and volunteer involvement and support.
• USPC is committed to safety.
• The local club is the core of USPC.