March 18, 2024 The United States Pony Clubs Adds New Helmet Certification to Official Helmet Policy; Shares 70 Years of Helmet Safety History

March 18, 2024 (Lexington, KY) —Since its founding, The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) has led the equestrian community in promoting and teaching safe horsemanship practices in all equestrian activities. As part of its emphasis on safety, USPC has a long history of raising awareness for the usage of riding helmets and of working to improve safety requirements within the horse industry.

The United States Pony Clubs was the driving force behind the standardization in safety testing of riding helmets. Until recently, Pony Club was the only equestrian organization that collected data on accidents and incidents that result from horseback riding or working with horses on the ground. The USPC Safety Committee was formed for the purpose of promoting best practices in riding and working with horses and educating those involved with all Pony Club activities in the methods of incident and accident avoidance. In addition, the study of any collected data by the committee allows for Pony Club to recognize potential causes of accidents unique to horse activities and to identify possible actions that might be taken to prevent or reduce these risks.

In its commitment to continuing with the latest on safety standards, the USPC Safety Committee has added the following equestrian helmet standards to its list of acceptable helmet safety bodies: VG1 BSI Kitemark and/or IC Mark (European) and EN1384 BSI Kitemark and/or IC Mark (European).

The BSI Kitemark is a quality mark indicating that helmets are subjected to ongoing quality control by the British Standards Institute (BSI). The VG1 01.040 2014-12 is the newest standard from the European Commission. It was created according to British standards and adopted by the EU.

The European Normes EN 1384 (Helmets for Equestrian Activities) is a standard published by the Centre for European Normes in Brussels and widely used for conformity assessment in Europe. This European Standard specifies requirement for protective helmets, that may or may not have a peak, for people involved in equestrian activities.

USPC’s Official Helmet Policy
With this addition, the updated USPC Policy #0810 on Safety Requirements for Helmets states:

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. recognizes that riding is an inherently dangerous sport, and consideration for safety is of utmost importance. Participation in any equine activity can result in injury or death and individuals must assume responsibility for their own safety. In order to promote high safety standards for our members, it is the policy of the Board of Governors to require properly fitted and securely fastened helmets containing the standards and certifications that meet criteria established by specific safety bodies listed below, to be worn by members during any mounted activity (except vaulting) and during some unmounted activities.

  • ASTM F1163 with SEI Mark (North America) (required for USEF Competitions)
  • SNELL Memorial Foundation E2016 or E2021
  • AS/NZS 3838 with SAI Global Mark (Australia and New Zealand)
  • PAS 015 with BSI Kitemark (United Kingdom)
  • VG1 BSI Kitemark and/or IC Mark (European)
  • EN1384 BSI Kitemark and/or IC Mark (European)

Delegation of authority is to:

A. The District Commissioner (DC), Center Administrator (CA), and Regional Supervisor (RS) shall have responsibility for this policy at the local and regional levels.
B. The Vice Presidents of Instruction, Activities, and Regional Administration, as appropriate, and the National Office shall have responsibility at the national level.
C. The President and the Chair of the Safety Committee shall have oversight of this policy.

Other Guidelines on Helmets
In addition to the above policy, USPC has published in the USPC Safety Handbook: “Wearing an approved helmet every ride, every time is required.” USPC also recommends when longeing, at horse inspection (jog for soundness), and at pre-riding inspections (turnout inspection and safety checks). In addition, a detailed explanation on determining helmet fit can be found in Appendix A of the handbook.

Further guidance in the handbook includes the following tips:

To preserve the optimal function and lifespan of a helmet, avoid placing it on top of hairspray, sunscreen, or insect repellents. Clean the inside and outside of the helmet often with warm water and a mild detergent. Do not soak any part of the helmet, put it close to high heat, or use strong cleaners. Helmets should be stored in a room that does not get too hot or too cold and where it is away from direct sunlight. (Do not store an equestrian helmet in a car.)

It is important to check helmets for damage and not allow a rider to use a cracked or broken helmet or a helmet that is missing any padding or parts. Replace any equestrian helmet that is damaged or has been involved in an impact from a fall. Equestrian helmets are designed to help protect the rider’s brain and head from only one serious impact. You may not be able to see the damage to the inner protective foam, but the foam materials inside the helmet will crush after an impact. That means that the foam in the helmet can’t effectively help protect the rider’s brain and head from another impact.

When is it time to replace an old or damaged helmet? The USPC Safety Handbook offers guidelines for this as well.

You can’t tell if a helmet has been damaged by looking at or even from feeling a helmet. Not all helmet damage is easily seen or felt.

  • The material inside a helmet that absorbs the concussion is expanded polystyrene, which is similar to the material used to protect heavy electronics during shipping. This material may be damaged if the helmet is dropped or worn in a fall. It will be unable to effectively absorb another impact in the same area.
  • Helmets showing signs of aging or damage of any kind should be replaced.
  • The headliner (the soft material between the head and the hard, outer shell) may compress over time, making a helmet too loose.
  • Any helmet worn in a fall should be inspected for damage by the manufacturer before further use or replaced.
  • Save the helmet box and receipt. If there is suspected damage after a fall, many manufacturers will replace the helmet for a nominal fee if you have documentation.

USPC’s Dedication to Helmet Usage
Even from its earliest days, lesson procedures required inspection of helmets to “Check that the rider’s hat and footwear comply with the current official safety rules.” At the time, riding “hats” were just that—items of apparel. The traditional velvet hunt caps of the day had no safety harness or retention system to keep them in place, thus they offered no actual protective qualities.

Fast forward to the 1970s, when the USPC Board of Governors, led by Board President Rufus Wesson, established a task group to search for a source of improved riding helmets, since they were receiving reports of increasing numbers of serious head injuries to USPC members. In 1978, an Advanced-level event rider wearing an unsecured show helmet was photographed during a fall, and the photo also showed the helmet on the ground before the rider landed and was hit on the head by a falling jump rail. The front-page story was reprinted and led to calls for action from Clarke Cassidy, a board member of the United States Combined Training Association (USCTA; now the United States Eventing Association, aka USEA).

The United States Pony Clubs and USCTA sponsored a meeting in January of 1979, which was attended by equestrian sports leaders, helmet manufacturers, lawyers, doctors, insurance representatives, competition managers, engineers, bio kineticists and members of the equestrian media. From that meeting came the help of the United States Polo Association, who offered permission to use their newly completed helmet standard. Wayne State University’s National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) football helmet standard was also offered, as was the use of the Snell Foundation’s testing lab to test existing equestrian helmets from various other countries.

As the USPC’s new Ad Hoc Safety Committee put together a draft of a standard for protective equestrian headgear, a western New York test laboratory kindly agreed to test prototype helmets and those that passed its provisions were publicly listed. Several equestrian sport governing organizations rewrote their competition rules to require the use of the listed products. This proved to be a controversial move, and it became obvious that the committee needed a more formal procedure and more research.

Groups who used the list included six breed clubs, three instructor certification groups, 13 horse sports groups, three horse industry organizations and welfare groups, one insurance and safety advocate, four youth groups, and five national/international organizations, including those from the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the Fédération Equestre Internationale (aka, the International Equestrian Federation, or FEI).

The American Society for Testing and Materials (now ASTM International) hosted an exploratory meeting, and in August 1984, the first meeting was held by members of the 1979 meeting and additional component manufacturers, standards editors, consumer safety activists, and testing lab professionals.

By 1988, and six drafts later, F1163-88 was completed as an internationally recognized standard, unique in its partnership with the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI), which provided the testing certification by impartial third-party labs and a quality-control oversight program. Members of the Equestrian Protective Headgear Subcommittee also worked on a base standard for other sports helmets, called F1446. The resulting standards were developed much more quickly than F1163 since they had the advantage of being able to customize from a successful example.

As time passed, helmets have evolved. F1163 was first published in 1988. By May of 2015 (27 years later), the SEI listed 18 manufacturers of certified equestrian helmets. The list of model numbers was six pages long. By June of 2023 (35 years later), the SEI lists 21 manufacturers of certified equestrian helmets. The list of model numbers is 16 pages long.

Today, certified helmets have become the norm in sport horse disciplines and acceptance has grown. Now helmet options go way beyond basic black. It’s possible to buy helmets covered in bling to match bling browbands and bling stirrups … to customize helmets in a zillion colors or with insets of your flag, or to feature a halo look in rose gold. There are also plenty of styles with a western aesthetic available, although helmet use among western riders has been slower to catch on.

Since March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, we encourage equestrians to visit USPC’s Head Injury and Concussion Training page and the Safety Page of our website, which contains additional safety resources and a Head Injury/Concussion Training.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. —The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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February 29, 2024 The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. Announces Exciting New Programs for Members

February 29, 2024 (Lexington, KY) — As part of its efforts to continuously provide fun and exciting activities and events for its members, The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) has developed two new programs to add to its already long lineup of activities—the USPC Points Program and virtual competitions. Both programs are available to all Participating members of the United States Pony Clubs and allows these members to customize their experience while being recognized for their achievements.

“The USPC Points Program creates a positive achievement structure within USPC rewarding members for participating in Pony Club programming,” said Erin Roland, USPC’s Activities and Events Director, who is spearheading the development of both programs. “The virtual competitions encourage member participation at the local level and give more participation opportunities to all regions, including smaller and weather-restricted ones.”

The USPC Points Program allows members to earn points for participating in their everyday USPC activities, as well as regional, national, and international events, while also supporting education, instruction, membership, and all other aspects that make Pony Club what it is. For example, members can earn points by attending local events, such as meetings or camps, or they can earn points by being a participant of a national USPC event, such as USPC Festival or the USPC Convention. In addition, volunteering through the members’ club, center, or region could also earn points for that member. Members participating in international exchanges, special opportunities like a Mounted Games invitational, and those who are enrolled in the various breed and discipline Recognition Programs would also earn points. Members participate within various age divisions and win awards based on national rankings and recognition certificates and pins based on an individual’s total points. This program will be available for members yearly, and points are accumulated within a calendar year.

Virtual competitions are planned for the disciplines of Dressage, Show Jumping Equitation, Trail, and Western Dressage during non-Festival years (odd-numbered years of 2025, 2027, 2029, etc.). Participating members can enroll regardless of their certification level and can participate in multiple divisions/classes. All information including courses/tests to be done, the rules/guidelines, video requirements, how to upload their videos, and more will be sent to members after entering. Members will have an allotment of time to record and upload their videos for a judge to review. After judging ends, members will be sent prizes/ribbons for each competition level/age division. There will not be a Horse Management component to the virtual competitions, but members will get to showcase their competition attire and preparedness, just like for an in-person competition. 

Both programs were enthusiastically received by Pony Club leaders after they were announced at the 2024 USPC Convention, Presented by Via Nova Training, and Sponsored by Lincoln Memorial University, in January 2024 in Reno, Nev. More will be released later this year about the specific logistics of how to join these programs.

Teresa Woods, USPC’s Executive Director, shared her enthusiasm for the new programs. “These programs allow our members to develop their journey with horses in ways that are meaningful for their individual growth and development as an equestrian,” she said. “After a positive reception from leadership already, I’m looking forward to seeing the excitement from our membership for both programs.”

To learn more about becoming a Participating member of the United States Pony Clubs or for more information about Pony Clubs’ other events and activities, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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February 29, 2024 Pony Club Members Gather for Fun Activities, Education, and Leadership Training at the 2024 USPC Convention, Presented by Via Nova Training and Sponsored by Lincoln Memorial University

February 29, 2024 (Lexington, KY) — From its early beginnings for its first annual meeting in New York City, N.Y., in 1954 with its founding members to a festive and fun-filled educational event in a five-star resort in Reno, Nev., 70 years later, The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) kicked off its 70th Anniversary year celebration at the 2024 USPC Convention, Presented by Via Nova Training, and Sponsored by Lincoln Memorial University. Nearly 450 Pony Club members, leaders, and volunteers, as well as equine enthusiasts, gathered for the event, held January 24-28, 2024, at the Peppermill Reno Resort and Spa. Attendees enjoyed more than 50 educational workshops and seminars, plus meetings, awards presentations, leadership training, and other Pony Club activities.

“Pony Club’s annual convention was a great way to start the celebration of USPC’s 70th Anniversary year,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “It’s the perfect time to reflect on Pony Club’s history of growth and change as we look forward to what the future holds and work together to continuously improve Pony Club education and the member experience. Since 1954, Pony Club has been a leader in teaching horse care and safe horsemanship. Convention brings our organization together to celebrate all that we have achieved and explore new ways to provide Pony Club education and opportunities for generations to come.”

Education and Leadership
Representatives from 37 Pony Club regions worked together to improve and expand Pony Club programming for current and future members. In addition to an expansive array of leadership training and educational workshops, the event offered a variety of opportunities—from exploring the Anatomy Lab, presented by Banixx Horse & Pet Care with support from Auburn Laboratories Inc., to shopping at the trade fair and silent auction. Workshop topics delivered important horse-health information and insights on equine behavior, rider fitness and sports psychology, plus land conservation, riding in college, helmet safety, and much more. Pony Club members also got advice to prepare for Horse Management at certifications and rallies, including interactive displays in the hands-on Horse Management Room, presented by Kentucky Equine Research, which was a huge hit with attendees of all ages.

“I always mention Horse Management when I tell people about Pony Club, because it makes the organization so special,” shared Shawna White, USPC Chief Horse Management Judge and director of digital technology for Kentucky Equine Research. “Judges recognize members for how well they care for their mounts, not just their riding abilities. At Convention, Pony Club members, parents, and volunteers visit the Horse Management Room to learn and practice hands-on skills that are fundamental to rallies and certifications.”

The youngest attendees enjoyed horse-related activities and educational fun in the Pony Paddock, sponsored by the Arabian Horse Youth Association and Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. Riding noodle horses as they rocked colorful cowboy hats, the Pony Paddock kids were not hard to spot. Plenty of Pony Club education plus prizes and activities from the Arabian Horse Association kept the kids entertained throughout the weekend. 

“We had a fantastic weekend in Pony Paddock with lots of fun visitors and activities,” said Pony Paddock leader Sedate Kohler. “We had friends teach us about Polocrosse, Foxhunting, Polo, and Vaulting, and even practiced on the vaulting barrel. We spent time in the Anatomy Lab and Horse Management Rooms and asked lots of questions. We also played games with Via Nova Training to learn how to build trust and communicate with horses, because they don’t speak English!”

In the Anatomy Lab, vet tech and longtime volunteer Cindy Healy said that the team “had a blast sharing knowledge. We met up with old friends and made many new ones—thank you to all who came and visited us!”

Healy added that this often includes repeat visitors who come daily or even several times a day. “This year, I had one mother-and-daughter duo that came up with fascinating questions every day. It's always a different experience every year,” she said. 

The Anatomy Lab team, including head veterinarian Brad Gordon, DVM, is already looking forward to next year, along with Healy. “Every year when we finish up at the convention, we put the lids on the crates, take a deep breath, look at each other, and start planning what new and fun things we can do for next year to make the Anatomy [Lab] even more exciting!” said Healy.

Developing the Next Generation
Friday’s Convention activities welcomed 18 delegates to the 2024 National Youth Congress (NYC) thanks to support from the Western & English Sales Association (WESA), as well as recognizing Pony Club alumni Stacy Anderson, DVM, PhD, and Board of Governors member Bo Varnado for this year’s Academy of Achievement, who serve as mentors for the National Youth Congress (NYC), a program that instills life skills that are cross-disciplinary and provide a foundation for lifelong success.

“The United States Pony Club has a special place in my heart as an organization that had a major impact on the person that I am today,” shared Anderson, who was impressed with the young leaders taking part in the 2024 NYC delegation at the convention. “They were consummate professionals and fully engaged with the fantastic leadership program offered to them by the NYC.”

Joining the Academy of Achievement and working with the NYC brought things full circle for Anderson, who is currently the dean of Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine. “Over 20 years ago, I participated in one of the first NYC events held in Baltimore, Md.,” she recalled. “I remember being awed by the alumni who attended that event. It is surreal that now I have been inducted into the Academy of Achievement for achievements in my life that were possible because of what I learned as a Pony Club member.”

Bo Varnado, a longtime USPC volunteer with a background in education and marketing, echoed similar thoughts. “I was a member of USPC in my youth and learned so much about organization, planning, safety, horsemanship, teamwork, and friendship, too,” she said. “The transferrable skills helped and guided me throughout all aspects of my life. I circled back around to become involved with our organization again when my children became riders, and I have stayed involved ever since. Attending and participating in the National Youth Congress was nothing short of amazing for me.

“The NYC delegates demonstrated leadership, dedication, awareness of salient issues, and creativity in proposing solutions,” continued Varnado. “I left the NYC experience feeling energized and hopeful for the future. Being honored as an inductee in the Academy of Achievement, in addition to working with the NYC delegates, was icing on the cake. I feel that the NYC/AA program is one of the gems of our USPC offerings.”

The USPC Research Project Fair, presented by Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation with support from Kentucky Equine Research, continued to grow in popularity with 43 participants presenting 35 total projects, both in person and virtually.

“The ability to offer in-person and virtual options for the Research Project Fair has allowed this opportunity to reach many more members and connect them to Pony Club at the national level,” shared Yvette R. Seger, PhD. “In my 10 years organizing the Research Project Fair, we've hosted participants from approximately 70 percent of USPC’s regions. Thanks to the sponsors, volunteers, and expert judges who make the Research Project Fair happen.”

Seger notes that it is an incredibly valuable opportunity for Pony Club members to interact with individuals in a range of fields, including veterinarians, equine professionals, scientists, medical professionals, educators, and more. “This is something that is particularly important for sparking interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields,” she said.

Pony Club leaders enjoyed a day of seminars and networking sessions to provide improved instruction, organization, and member experiences thanks to support from the Mattingley Leadership Training Fund.

Highlights included updates from USPC’s Regional Administration, Finance, Marketing, Development, and Instruction departments, plus exciting announcements from the Activities department about Festival Championships and two new programs, as well as guest speakers on legal and insurance topics. Small-group breakout sessions and a fun night of trivia brought leaders together to share ideas.

“A key takeaway from this year’s sessions was the vital role of local and regional leaders within the framework of the national organization,” said Rae Birr, USPC Vice President of Regional Administration. “An overall theme of ‘where do I fit in’ emerged. Networking and friendships developed. If you missed all this fun and education in Reno, plan to come to Traverse City, Michigan, in January 2025 for more opportunities to hear the latest USPC news, happenings, updates, and plenty of fun!”

Awards and Achievement
Many Pony Club awards were presented at the Saturday morning Meeting of the Corporation. Six clubs were recognized for their member dedication and longevity with the United States Pony Clubs with the Club Milestone Award, presented to clubs reaching their 25th or 50th anniversary years. 

Four Pony Club members who earned A-level certifications received special recognition for the accomplishment. The A certification is the top level in the USPC certification program and is widely recognized throughout the equine industry as the mark of a highly competent and knowledgeable horse person.

“We are so proud of our new As and the time and commitment to excel and pursue their passion in Pony Club and to achieve the highest certification in USPC,” said Connie Jehlik, USPC Instruction Services Director. “We are excited for their future and continued learning and sharing of their achievements.”

The Brookfield Land Conservation Award was presented to Woodbrook Hunt Pony Club and Misty Morning Farm Pony Club Riding Center, while the Flash Teamwork Award went to the late beloved Pony Club mount Sylvester, who was owned by Racine County Pony Club in the Lake Shore Region for many years before his recent passing.

The Saturday Night Banquet was a highlight as attendees celebrated the recipients of the USPC Founders Awards, honoring dedicated longtime volunteers Rae Birr and Eileen Corl Kirby. Olympic-level groom Max Corcoran was the keynote speaker. Corcoran served as president of the United States Eventing Association from 2020 to 2023 and is currently the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Eventing Elite and High-Performance team facilitator. In her address, Corcoran offered a moving testimonial to life with horses while she shared photos of many of the elite-level horses she worked with, such as Theodore O’Connor, who was ridden by Olympian Karen O’Connor.

Thank You to Our Event Sponsors
Pony Club was pleased to partner with title sponsor Via Nova Training for the 2024 USPC Convention and supporting sponsor Lincoln Memorial University. Additional support for the event was provided by: the American Association of Equine Practitioners; the Arabian Horse Youth Association; Auburn Laboratories, Inc.; Banixx Horse & Pet Care; BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program; Coach Daniel Stewart and his Pressure Proof Coaching Academy; a Contra Costa Pony Club alum; Double Clear Farm; Dover Saddlery; Dressage 4 Kids; Ely and Marcy Payoyo; Featherlite of Reno; Flash, the USPC 50th Anniversary Breyer Model Horse; Gold Country Pony Club; the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation; the Interactive Wild Horse Experience; Jennifer Ludwig; Kentucky Equine Research; Kerrits (the official apparel sponsor of USPC);  Lone Tree Farm & Friends; the Mattingley Leadership Training Fund; Meghan Lewis; the Middle California Pony Club Region; Nino Campos Photography; Otterbein University; Ram Tap Horse Park; Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club; Santa Ynez Valley Hounds; Shapley’s (the official grooming products sponsor of USPC); Sheila Larsen; a Squamscott Pony Club alum; Sterling Essentials LLC; Triple Crown Nutrition (the official feed sponsor of USPC); USA Working Equitation; USPC National Examiners; the USPC International Exchanges and Special Opportunities Committee; Western States Horse Expo; Wintec (the official saddle sponsor of USPC); The Horse; the Western & English Sales Association; and Zoetis (the official health and wellness partner of USPC).

Save the Date for the 2025 USPC Convention
Proposals are now being accepted online for 2025 educational workshops; more information is available here. Pony Club invites all horse lovers to save the date for the 2025 USPC Convention to be held Jan. 22–26, 2025, in Traverse City, Mich., at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. More information will be made available throughout the year on ponyclub.org.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org

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February 23, 2024 Cheers to 70 Years of Equestrian Education with the United States Pony Clubs

February 23, 2024 (Lexington, KY) — The year 2024 is a big year for The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) as the organization celebrates its 70th Anniversary. The organization’s vision is to be the leading source and voice of education in horse care, safety, and equestrian pursuits. Officially founded on February 24, 1954, as a youth organization to teach safe riding and the proper care of horses, USPC has developed into an organization for all ages and experience levels. Over the past seven decades, the U.S. Pony Clubs has served more than 175,000 members with 68% of them staying involved with horses for life. In addition to learning horse care and riding, the skills, habits, and values instilled by the USPC program translate to valuable life skills that members and volunteers use in all areas of their life, including skills in goalsetting, volunteerism, service, teamwork, stewardship, and more.

“The vision of USPC’s founders to create a long-lasting and influential organization teaching youth safe riding and the proper care of horses has grown into so much more than they ever could have dreamed,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “With 70 years of equestrian education throughout the United States, USPC’s longevity shows their vision has stood the test of time.”

With Horse Management as USPC’s foundation, the Standards of Proficiency, as the Pony Club curriculum that influences USPC education, and the USPC Manuals of Horsemanship make Pony Club unique as an organization within the horse industry, due to the focus on horsemanship and horse care rather than competition. Along with nine competitive riding disciplines, Quiz, and experiences and information in six resource disciplines, USPC’s program is all encompassing. The USPC curriculum also includes certification tracks in Hunter Seat Equitation/Show Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Western, and Western Dressage.

The United States Pony Clubs is comprised of more than 475 clubs and riding centers with members who keep coming back year after year, along with new members who find many reasons to join. Some of the reasons members are drawn in include: the opportunity to create a customizable journey as they seek various certifications, the ability to learn all there is to know about horse management, the chance to try a variety of disciplines or to compete in a team environment, or by the extraordinary special opportunities through international exchanges to other Pony Club-participating nations, where participants can experience culture with a competitive edge during their time abroad. Additionally, members have the option to experience leadership opportunities, earn scholarships and grants, participate in awards programs, and all become part of the Pony Club community, where lifelong friendships are made.

Over the next year, you will see various ways that USPC is celebrating its 70th Anniversary. The kickoff of the 70th Anniversary happened in January 2024 in Reno, Nev., at the 2024 USPC Convention, Presented by Via Nova Training and Sponsored by Lincoln Memorial University. Attendees enjoyed a special photo and memory area in the trade fair area, and alumni and current members, volunteers, and board members wished the national organization a “Happy 70th Anniversary” during a video that played during the Meeting of the Corporation at the convention. With USPC’s Founders Day of February 24, the organization will kick off a “7 Days of Giving” campaign, complete with historical information via USPC’s communication channels. Anyone wishing to support the organization can do so with an online donation at https://donate.ponyclub.org.  

In addition, USPC will feature its 70th Anniversary at events that it attends throughout the year, such as the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, along with offering multiple ways to celebrate 70 years during USPC’s capstone event, the USPC Festival. Festival, which will now be held every other year, features championships in multiple disciplines followed by several days of educational clinics with a wide range of equestrian experts to total eight days filled with fun, friendship, and camaraderie at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky., July 15-22, 2024.

For more about Pony Club’s history, visit https://blog.ponyclub.org/category/uspc-history throughout this 70th Anniversary year as we share all of the stories that have made USPC what it is today.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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November 16, 2023 Pony Club Invites All Horse Lovers to Enjoy Education at the Annual USPC Convention, Presented by Via Nova Training

November 16, 2023 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) invites horse lovers of all ages, experience levels, and disciplines to attend the 2024 USPC Convention, presented by Via Nova Training, which will be hosted by USPC and the Sierra Pacific Region, from January 24-28, 2024, at the Peppermill Reno Resort and Spa in Reno, Nev. The event will offer a blend of in-person and on-demand educational opportunities, including leadership training, equine education, and hands-on learning activities. While education is the main focus, a highlight is always the camaraderie and connections made with equine enthusiasts from around the country.

Each year, the USPC Convention is held in a different location around the United States as Pony Club’s 41 regions take turns hosting the event. In 2024, the Sierra Pacific Region, which spans parts of Northern California and Nevada, will play host.

“Pony Club is always thrilled to put on our annual convention,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “This multi-faceted event has so much to offer for attendees of all ages, along with top-notch education from experts of all kinds. There is something for every horse lover, and Pony Club members and their families can enjoy the experience together, while Pony Club leaders find the in-person networking and discussions invaluable. This year’s location, especially at such a nice resort, makes it ideal for a family-friendly vacation combined with the Convention.”

The Peppermill Reno Resort is a AAA Four Diamond-rated resort, including a 9,900 square-foot fitness center, a three-story spa and salon, two resort pools (with one heated for all-year use), 10 award-winning restaurants on site, and 15 themed bars and lounges. The USPC Convention will be housed in the recently remodeled convention space, and rooms are offered at a discounted USPC group rate of $125-$185/night. Conveniently located five minutes from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and 10 minutes from downtown, Peppermill is a perfect location for easy travel.

Education for all Equestrians
Both in-person and virtual meeting attendees will have access to extensive education during the event and for six months following through the virtual event platform. More than 40 in-person and on-demand workshop sessions cover a variety of riding sports and disciplines, as well as rider fitness; equine health, grooming and nutrition; saddle fit; training basics for horse and rider; helmets and safety; plus disaster preparedness, land conservation, intercollegiate riding, and more. Of particular interest to Pony Club members are workshops covering Horse Management within Pony Club, USPC’s Standards of Proficiency, rally tips, international exchanges, and other Pony Club opportunities.

Another educational highlight of the Convention is the Research Project Fair, presented by the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation and supported by Kentucky Equine Research. Science-minded Pony Club members of all ages and certification levels share their findings on equine topics ranging from whether horses have a favorite color to genetics and cloning.

Other popular event features for hands-on learning include the Anatomy Lab, sponsored by Banixx Horse & Pet Care and the hands-on Horse Management Room, presented by Kentucky Equine Research, while the Pony Paddock, sponsored by the Arabian Horse Youth Association, entertains the youngest attendees.

Leading the Way
Leadership training is also a much-anticipated part of the USPC Convention and offers professional development for Pony Club’s instructors, leaders, and the many dedicated volunteers who make Pony Club happen at all levels. In addition to learning and networking, leaders can enjoy connecting over a special dinner and trivia night on Thursday.

The USPC National Youth Congress (NYC), supported by the Western & English Sales Association (WESA), also takes place during Convention. The NYC recognizes outstanding Pony Club members, ages 18–23, who are selected for their achievement, leadership, and volunteerism. Delegates come together with USPC Academy of Achievement alumni to focus on personal development and work together as a group on proposals to present to the USPC Board of Governors. They also enjoy plenty of team building, leadership training, and opportunities to network with USPC graduates, alumni, and leaders.
Another leadership function of the USPC Convention is the important work that happens during the Board of Governors meetings.

The USPC National Youth Board (NYB), a group of young leaders who serve as a bridge between the membership and the Board of Governors, also meets during the Convention to welcome the newest NYB members and to work on a service project.

Making Connections
Everyone looks forward to the Meeting of the Corporation on Saturday morning, held alongside a complimentary continental breakfast to kick off the day. This is when the business of the organization is conducted, and special awards are presented, such as the Flash Teamwork Award and the Brookfield Land Conservation Award. Notable achievements are also recognized, including members who have earned Pony Club’s impressive A-level certification, and clubs receiving 25- and 50-Year Milestone Awards.

The Saturday Night Banquet is always highly anticipated, with an evening of celebration, and dancing the night away. The winners of the Research Project Fair, along with the Founders Award recipients, are honored before the Passing of the Whip ceremony to the next hosting region. The keynote speaker at this year’s banquet is Max Corcoran.

Corcoran has been grooming at the highest level for over 25 years for some of the best in the world, including the O’Connor Event Team. She traveled for 11 years to many Olympics, World Championships, Pan American Games, and numerous CCIs around the world. Corcoran was part of the organizing team for the 2018 World Equestrian Games and was a Technical Official at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games. She was the president of the United States Eventing Association (USEA) from 2020 to 2023, where horsemanship and horse care are her legacy. She continues to sit on various USEA and United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) committees. She is currently the USEF Eventing Elite and High-Performance Program team facilitator.

Shopping the trade fair and bidding in the Sierra Pacific Region’s silent auction complete the Convention experience in Reno. We hope you will join us there.

Pony Club is pleased to partner with title sponsor Via Nova Training for the 2024 USPC Convention. In addition to title sponsor Via Nova Training, support for the event is being provided by: the American Association of Equine Practitioners, the Arabian Horse Youth Association, Banixx Horse & Pet Care, Coach Daniel Stewart and his Pressure Proof Coaching Academy, Dressage 4 Kids, Gold Country Pony Club, the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, Kerrits (the official apparel sponsor of USPC), Kentucky Equine Research, Lone Tree Farm & Friends, Mustang Champions, Otterbein University, Ely and Marcy Payoyo, Ram Tap Horse Park, Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, Santa Ynez Valley Hounds, Shapley’s (the official grooming products sponsor of USPC), Sheila Larsen, Triple Crown Nutrition (the official feed sponsor of USPC), Wintec (the official saddle sponsor of USPC), The Horse, the USPC Special Opportunities Committee, the Western & English Sales Association, and Zoetis (the official health and wellness partner of USPC).

Be Part of the 2024 USPC Convention
Registration for the 2024 USPC Convention, sponsored by Via Nova Training, is open online at bit.ly/2024-convention-registration-info. USPC group rates on lodging are available at the Reno Peppermill Resort and Spa and online here. For more information about the convention, visit www.ponyclub.org/Events/Convention and click on the “Convention Website” button.

Sponsorship and trade fair opportunities are still available, with a deadline of December 6. Through Pony Club, you can connect with an equine-savvy audience of all ages and support the next generation of leaders and equestrians. Those interested should email development@ponyclub.org.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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October 25, 2023 The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. Changes National Events to Offer USPC Festival More Often

October 25, 2023 (Lexington, KY) —The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) has made a significant change to its national events offerings for USPC members. Starting in 2024, the United States Pony Clubs will be celebrating USPC Festival every other year in Lexington, Ky., instead of every three years. Festival offers its national championships competition in eight disciplines with open competitions in two of its newest disciplines during the first part of the week. This is followed by more than 50 clinics and workshop sessions taught by Olympians, Pony Club experts, and equine industry professionals. Throughout the week, participants, family, and visitors can shop at the USPC Festival trade fair, participate in and watch the mock foxhunt, and enjoy all aspects of Pony Club activities. This unforgettable experience attracts 2,500+ Pony Club members of all ages, their families, volunteers and leaders, coaches, judges and clinicians, as well as equestrians from the equine community.

The USPC Festival has always been a much-anticipated event for Pony Club, and it is open to members and non-members alike. This remarkable event, first held in 1983 at the world-renown Kentucky Horse Park, was the brainchild of then-President Mary Lou Anderson, who had the brilliant idea of gathering the entire Pony Club family in one place for national competitions and mounted and unmounted education. Festival is a time of excitement as friends are made, goals are met, and awards are earned. For more about Festival, visit www.ponyclub.org/events/festival.

This shift away from annual championship events will also help USPC focus on who matters most—its members, volunteers, and leaders—as Pony Club works to strengthen regional support and continues to grow USPC programming. This decision was made after an extensive review period, during which the National Office gathered information about USPC events and regional activities, and, most importantly, solicited feedback from membership.

“We listened to the membership and carefully reviewed all of our options for our national events. This was the best option by far, as members have always loved Festival, and everyone who attends gets so much out of the experience,” said Teresa Woods, USPC Executive Director. “The amazing friendships and bonds that are made at a USPC Festival are truly awe-inspiring, and the educational programming is always top-notch. It’s always inspiring for me to attend and see our members as they learn and compete at this special event.”

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., which is the largest equine educational organization in North America, is excited to be celebrating its 70th Anniversary throughout the year, and especially at the 2024 Festival, and USPC is currently planning special ways for attendees to help it celebrate 70 years of equestrian education.

In addition, the United States Pony Clubs has several new and exciting program options for members that will be unveiled during the 2024 USPC Convention, to be held January 24-28, 2024, in Reno, Nev., at the Peppermill Reno Resort and Spa. Anyone interested in Pony Club programming is encouraged to attend the 2024 USPC Convention to learn more as you also enjoy equine education, camaraderie, leadership training, and connection to equine enthusiasts from around the country. This event is being hosted at a AAA Four-Diamond resort and spa with numerous activities inside and outside of the event, for a true horse-loving family friendly vacation. Take advantage of the fabulous group rates of $125-$185/night. For more about the 2024 USPC Convention, visit www.ponyclub.org/events/convention.

For more information about Pony Club Activities and Events, please email events@ponyclub.org.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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October 5, 2023 United States Pony Clubs Offers Annual Awards & Recognition for Members Competing in Dressage & Eventing

October 5, 2023 (Lexington, KY) —The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) offers many levels of recognition each year for members who participate in Dressage and Eventing at Pony Club rallies, as well as competitions recognized by the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) and United States Eventing Association (USEA). USPC members who meet the criteria may submit an online application by November 15 of each year.

“Pony Club is pleased that so many of our members are actively participating and competing in these disciplines at Pony Club rallies and beyond,” said Erin Roland, USPC Activities and Events Director. “We are proud of their achievements as they represent Pony Club in the equestrian community.”

Dressage Recognition Awards include:
• Blue Ribbon Club: Completion of one USPC Dressage rally at the Introductory Level and one USEF-licensed/USDF-recognized Dressage show at the Intro Level.  
• Medallion Club: Completion of one USPC Dressage rally at the Training Level and one USEF-licensed/USDF-recognized Dressage show at the Training Level.
• Bronze Medal Club: Completion of one USPC Dressage rally at the First Level and one USEF-licensed/USDF-recognized Dressage show at the First Level.
• Silver Medal Club: Completion of one USPC Dressage rally (this can be in competition at any level or by being a volunteer for the rally) and one USEF-licensed/USDF-recognized Dressage show at the Second Level.
• Gold Medal Club: Completion of one USPC Dressage rally (this can be in competition at any level or by being a volunteer for the rally) and completion of one USEF-licensed/USDF-recognized Dressage show at Third Level or above.

Pony Club members can earn Dressage certifications from the basic D-2 level all the way through the advanced A level. The Pony Club certification program is a series of tests completed by members as they gain skills and become more proficient in both horse management and riding.

“The youth and members of these two organizations solidify the foundation and represent the future of the sport and USDF is thrilled to work with USPC to recognize their accomplishments both within USPC and the dressage community at large,” said Katherine Robertson, USDF Education Director.

Eventing Recognition Awards include:
• Blue Ribbon Club: Completion of one USPC Eventing rally at the Beginner Novice Level or above and one USEA-recognized horse trial at the Beginner Novice Level or above.
• Medallion Club: Completion of one USPC Eventing rally at the Novice Level or above and one USEA-recognized horse trial at the Novice Level or above.
• Bronze Medal Club: Completion of one USPC Eventing rally at the Training Level or above and one USEA-recognized horse trial at the Training Level or above.
• Silver Medal Club: Participation in one USPC Eventing rally (this can be in competition at any level or by being a volunteer for the rally) and completion of one USEA-recognized horse trial at the Preliminary Level or above.
• Gold Medal Club: Participation in one USPC Eventing rally (this can be in competition at any level or by being a volunteer for the rally) and completion of 1 USEA-recognized horse trial at the Intermediate Level or above.
From the beginning, when The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. was first founded in 1954, the organization’s traditional Standards of Proficiency were rooted in the discipline of Eventing. It remains popular among Pony Club members today for both competition and certifications at all levels.

“Since the founding of our Association, the U.S. Pony Clubs has been the pathway for a majority of our members into the sport of eventing,” said USEA CEO Rob Burk. “Members such as myself, my spouse, and my children learned horsemanship, sportsmanship, responsibility, and lifelong friendships thanks to USPC. We are excited to continue to build on our Pony Club bonds through the USPC/USEA Eventing Recognition Program.”

Anyone interested in becoming a Pony Club member may join a local club or riding center in their area. Visit the Pony Club website to learn more about membership and find a Pony Club or Riding Center nearby.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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August 31, 2023 2023 USPC Championships East Celebrates Teamwork, Leadership, and Horsemanship

August 31, 2023 (Lexington, KY) — The 2023 USPC Championships East took over the grounds at Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, N.C., for four days of competition and camaraderie while members focused on their horse management and riding skills. The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) competitions follow a unique format as competitors compete on a team and are judged on how well they care for their horses (horse management), in addition to how they score during a ride. In addition, the discipline of Quiz is offered, which allows unmounted competitors in a five-phase discipline to showcase their equine knowledge as a team. This focus on teamwork and horse care teaches Pony Club members to become excellent all-around equestrians who can provide the highest care for their mounts while learning life skills, such as leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship, organization, and much more.

The event brought more than 360 competitors together representing 23 Pony Club regions from around the country to compete in Dressage, Western Dressage, Eventing, Mounted Games, Quiz, Show Jumping, and Tetrathlon. But what makes the competition truly stand out is the dedication and support from the large number of volunteers, Pony Club leaders, parents, and friends who showcase the love within the Pony Club community. Talk to any volunteer, leader, member, or parent about what Pony Club means to them or their child and you will understand what a special organization it is.

“Each year, USPC Championships offers the ultimate experience in competition for Pony Club competitors to show their mettle as they compete with their fellow teammates,” said Teresa Woods, Executive Director of the United States Pony Clubs. “But what sets USPC Championships apart from any other competition is that focus on horse management, and seeing all of the members carefully caring for their mounts and working together as a team. It warms the heart while really showcasing how unique Pony Club is as an equestrian organization. Our focus on education is what make USPC Championships, and also USPC certifications, really special within the horse community.”

The event kicked off with competitor packet pickup, which featured numerous goodies from event sponsors; then discipline briefings from each discipline’s leaders; horse inspections; three days of competition; and barn night checks at the end of each day, which is just one of the moments when members focus on taking care of not only their mount, but also their teammates. Educational workshops were also offered, including an Ask the Judge session for Dressage and Western Dressage, an Eventing cross-country course walk, strategies for Mounted Games play, how to judge horse conformation for Quiz, a Polocrosse discipline demonstration, a shooting clinic for Tetrathlon, and what an equitation judge is looking for in Show Jumping.

“Championships is the only national competition that competitors not only show their skills for their discipline, but show what it takes to be a well-rounded horseperson through Horse Management, which is the core of what Pony Club is,” said Erin Roland, USPC Activities and Events Director. “It is a feat in itself to become eligible for Championships, let alone compete in, not only your discipline, but Horse Management, in addition. All attendees should be extremely proud of their accomplishments. I know I am proud of all our members who attended. Well done to all!”

USPC plans various special events for entertainment of competitors, such as the Opening Ceremonies, where members march in a parade of regions, while many youth carry regional banners, flags, and decorations, and many wear face paint and costumes with their friends to stand out in this super festive event. The competitor party provided a delicious dinner for all participants. The penultimate entertainment was the Saturday Night Lights and Upper-Level Showcase.

Saturday Night Lights, hosted by the Tryon International Equestrian Center, invites the public for free entertainment, such as pony rides, live bands, face painting, performers, and rides on a hand-painted Venetian carousel, and more. Attendees could grab dinner, a carnival-style treat, and enjoy the Upper-Level Showcase, which featured riding demonstrations by upper-level Pony Club members and trivia challenges with Quiz competitors. It’s an honor to be chosen for the Showcase, as Pony Club members must qualify through their certification level. Riders and quiz competitors did not disappoint as they entertained this year’s crowd.

The final event that everyone looks forward to is each discipline’s award ceremony, sponsored by Kentucky Performance Products, where ribbons, prizes, and swag from sponsors are presented to those who accumulated the highest team and individual scores—in both horse management and riding—in their discipline and division. In addition, competitors who achieve outstanding turnout scores are recognized with a special ribbon to wear. During the award ceremony, stable managers were also recognized. Stable Managers play a unique, integral role on a Pony Club team as a non-riding member who helps keep the team working together to provide the best care of horses and equipment throughout the competition.

Special awards include the Margo Leithead Cornerstone Award for Excellence in Horse Management, the Tiny but Mighty Character Award, and the Scandalously DanDee Best-Presented Pair Award. In addition, discipline awards are given to those who complete the requirements of the USPC Breed Recognition Award programs offered by USPC and affiliate breed partners. This year, riders with horses registered with the American Connemara Pony Society, the Arabian Horse Association, and the Thoroughbred Incentive Program (TIP) were recognized for their accomplishments. In the discipline of Eventing, recognition was also provided by the United States Eventing Association (USEA).

View overall results and awards from each discipline at the 2023 USPC Championships East here.

The event wouldn’t be possible with USPC’s generous sponsors, including corporate sponsors Kerrits, the official apparel sponsor; Shapley's, the official grooming products sponsor; The Horse; Triple Crown Feed, the official feed sponsor; Wintec, the official saddle sponsor; and Zoetis, the official equine health and wellness sponsor. USPC Championships East sponsors also include Achieve Equine, Dimples Horse Treats, Dover Saddlery, Dreamers & Schemers, Gore Trailers, HandsOn Gloves, Kentucky Performance Products, the Equine Veterinary Education Program at Lincoln Memorial University, Middle Tennessee Pony Club Fund, Ride EquiSafe, Santa Cruz Animal Health, Shires Equestrian Products and one anonymous sponsor.

Next year’s USPC Championships will take place as part of the USPC Festival, held July 15–22, 2024 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky. The 2024 event, which also includes educational opportunities and riding clinics, promises to be extra special since USPC will be celebrating its 70th anniversary. For more information about the 2023 USPC Championships, visit www.ponyclub.org/events/championships, and for more information about the 2024 USPC Festival, visit www.ponyclub.org/events/festival. If you would like to receive information via email about the 2024 USPC Festival, click here.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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August 16, 2023 The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. Awards College Scholarships to Members

August 16, 2023 (Lexington, KY) — In its commitment to education, The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) offers a variety of college scholarships, and this year, USPC has awarded a total of $7,500 in college scholarships to seven Pony Club members in 2023. These exceptional recipients all demonstrated outstanding achievements in academics, sportsmanship, and leadership through horsemanship

“These student are excellent examples of what a Pony Club education has to offer,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “The life skills that Pony Club teaches will serve them well in the classroom, the workplace, and beyond. Our college scholarships reflect our commitment to education and give back to a membership that values the pursuit of knowledge and excellence in all forms.”

Pony Club is honored to recognize the following individuals:

2023 USPC Triple Crown Nutrition Scholarship ($1,000), sponsored by Triple Crown Nutrition, official feed sponsor of USPC—Shawn Walden
This scholarship rewards members for excellence in academics and outstanding achievements in Pony Club. This year’s recipient is Shawn Walden of Lake Waukomis, Mo., a C-3 Eventing and H-B Horse Management certified member of Mill Creek Pony Club in the Midwest Region. He is a film major planning on attending either the University of Missouri or Arizona State University.

2023 USPC Dorothy Renfro Memorial Scholarship ($1,000)—Natalie Hamilton
This scholarship is awarded annually for higher education to an active Pony Club member who exhibits the qualities that Dorothy Renfro valued most: leadership, horse management, and volunteering time and energy to beneficial activities. Natalie Hamilton of Reno, Nev., was this year’s recipient. A member of Silver State Pony Club in the Sierra Pacific Region, Hamilton has earned her C-1 Dressage, C-2 Hunt Seat Equitation and H-A Horse Management certifications. She is an animal science and management major attending the University of California, Davis.

2023 Anson W.H. Taylor Memorial Scholarship from USPC and Equine Land Conservation Resource ($1,500)—Meghan Hill
The Anson W.H. Taylor Memorial Scholarship is sponsored by Pony Club and Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR) in memory of former Pony Club president and ELCR founder Anson Taylor. The scholarship is awarded to a current Pony Club member who has been actively committed to land conservation efforts. Meghan Hill of Petaluma, Calif., is a C-1 Dressage and C-2 Horse Management certified member of Sonoma Coastal EquesTraining Center Pony Club Riding Center in the Sierra Pacific Region. She is majoring in sustainability and management at Royal Holloway University, University of London.

2023 USPC Jubilee Scholarship ($1,000 each)—Julia Magsam and Delaney O’Neil
The Pony Club Jubilee Scholarships are awarded to two Pony Club members for excellence in academic pursuits and outstanding achievements in Pony Club. The scholarship was established in honor of USPC’s 50th anniversary in 2004. This year’s recipients are Julia Magsam and Delaney O’Neil. A member of Bluegrass Pony Club in the Midsouth Region, Julia Magsam of Sadieville, Ky., has earned her C-3 in Dressage, C-1 in Eventing, and H-B in Horse Management. Magsam is a second-time USPC scholarship recipient, pursuing a degree in biomedical sciences at Georgetown College in Kentucky.
Delaney O’Neil of White Hall, Md., is a member of Elkridge-Harford Pony Club in the Maryland Region. O’Neil has earned a C-2 in Eventing and Horse Management. She intends to study nursing.

2023 Stanley R. and Martha C. Helbert Memorial Scholarship ($1,000)—Samuel “Levi” Moreland
The Stanley R. and Martha C. Helbert Scholarship is awarded annually to a Pony Club member pursuing the liberal arts in areas such as literature, music, theater, and visual arts. Samuel “Levi” Moreland of Dallas, Ga., was this year’s recipient and is a C-2 Eventing and Horse Management certified member of Atlanta Pony Club in the South Region. He plans to major in architectural engineering at Kennesaw State University.

2023 USPC Bodgie Read Memorial Scholarship ($1,000)—Lydia McKenzie
The Bodgie Read Memorial Scholarship is given to a Dressage- or Eventing-certified member who exhibits the qualities that Bodgie Read valued most: volunteerism and participation in both disciplines. This year’s recipient is Lydia McKenzie from Columbus, Ohio. McKenzie has earned her C-2 in Eventing and Horse Management and is a member of Hunter’s Run Pony Club in the Tri-State Region. She will be pursuing a nursing major.
Pony Club scholarship recipients are selected through an application process administered by Pony Club, with essay submissions reviewed by a scholarship committee and chosen according to the unique requirements for each opportunity. Visit the Pony Club website to learn more about our college scholarship opportunities.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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June 28, 2023 The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. Partners with the United States Eventing Association to Support the Eventing Coaches Program

June 28, 2023 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Eventing Association, Inc. (USEA) is thrilled to welcome The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) as a sponsor of the USEA Eventing Coaches Program (ECP). USPC will be the “Presenting Sponsor of the ECP Workshops,” which includes educational opportunities for interested candidates in Area III at Malvern House, Area II at Destination Eventing and Loch Moy Farm, Area IV at Jigsaw Farm, and Area VI at Twin Rivers Ranch. USPC will also contribute funding from the Eleanor Brennan Memorial Fund, which offers scholarships to current USEA members who are affiliated with the USPC as a member, instructor, or leader to cover their ECP workshop expenses.

“As part of the United States Pony Clubs’ core mission of offering educational opportunities, we are really excited to partner with the United States Eventing Association to offer training through the USEA’s Eventing Coaches Program (ECP), with a possible scholarship to Pony Club members,” said Teresa Woods, USPC Executive Director. “Pony Club members, instructors, and leaders who teach can apply for funding for this opportunity through the Eleanor Brennan Memorial Fund, which offers scholarships to instructors in their quest to develop their skills. The ECP workshops offer top-notch education so that up-and-coming eventing coaches can then better educate their students.”

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., which was loosely based off its counterpart, The British Pony Club, was founded in 1954 to help improve the education of riding and the proper care of horses in our country. USPC’s main goal is to promote sportsmanship, stewardship, and leadership through horsemanship. Pony Clubs and Pony Club Riding Centers throughout the U.S. offer educational opportunities that build the foundations of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding and horse care, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members.

“The USEA is excited to welcome the United States Pony Clubs as a partner, and we look forward to working together on the ECP Workshops,” said USEA CEO Rob Burk. “The USEA and USPC have had a strong relationship since our founding, and we share a core mission of enhancing educational opportunities for members of our community. By joining forces through the Eventing Coaches Program, we will be able to open doors to better, more qualified coaching to a wider audience across the country.”

To view the schedule of USEA Eventing Coaches Program workshops for 2023, click here. If you are interested in participating in the program, apply as an ECP Candidate today.

To learn more about the Eleanor Brennan Memorial Fund and to apply for the scholarship, click here. To learn more about USPC, visit www.ponyclub.org.

About the USEA Eventing Coaches Program (ECP)

Coaches are essential to the training of riders and horses for safe and educated participation in the sport of eventing. The USEA Eventing Coaches Program (ECP), formerly known as the Instructors’ Certification Program (ICP), was initiated in 2002 to educate all levels of eventing coaches with crucial training principles upon which they can continue to build throughout their teaching careers. ECP offers educational workshops and assessments by which both regular coaches, Level I through Level V, Young Event Horse (YEH) coaches, and Young Event Horse professional horse trainers can become ECP certified. Additional information about ECP’s goals, benefits, workshops, and assessments as well as names and contact information for current ECP certified coaches, YEH coaches, and YEH professional horse trainers are available on the USEA website. Click here to learn more about the USEA Eventing Coaches Program.

About the United States Eventing Association

The USEA is a non-profit 501(c)(3) educational organization committed to providing eventing enthusiasts with a competitive level suited to their individual skills. By assisting and educating competitors, event organizers, and officials; maintaining responsible safety standards; and registering qualified competitions and clinics, the USEA offers a strong and continuous training opportunity for an ever-expanding field of world-class competitors. Just as importantly, the USEA provides a means for all riders, regardless of age or ability, to experience the thrill of eventing. To learn more, visit http://www.useventing.com.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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June 9, 2023 The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. Named a Finalist for the 2023 Equine Industry Vision Award

June 9, 2023 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is honored to be named as a finalist for the 2023 Equine Industry Vision Award. Since 2002, the Equine Industry Vision Award, presented by American Horse Publications and sponsored by Zoetis, has honored 17 individuals and four organizations for exemplifying outstanding visionary achievements or sustained contributions that have profoundly impacted the equine industry. The 22nd recipient of the award will be announced on Friday, June 23, during an honorary breakfast at the American Horse Publications Conference in Tempe, Ariz.

“Pony Club is honored to be named as a finalist for this prestigious award,” said Teresa Woods, USPC Executive Director. “To be recognized for our visionary achievements and our impact to the horse industry means that we are making a difference in the lives of our members and beyond, and that follows along with our long-term vision of being the leading source and voice of education in horse care, safety, and equestrian pursuits. We will continue working to make a positive impact on the horse community long into the future.”

American Horse Publications is a membership organization that strives to be the primary source of education, resources, and networking for the equine media community. A committee of six equine industry professionals narrowed a field of 15 nominations to the following four finalists:

  •  The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., a nonprofit educational organization serving equestrians of all ages in the U.S. and Virgin Islands
  • Dr. Amy Grice, VMD, MBA, LLC, Veterinary Business Consulting, co-founder of Decade One, an organization instrumental in reducing the attrition of early-career veterinarians
  • Janet Jones, PhD, owner of Brainworks, author of books, articles, presentations, clinics, research, horse training, and riding instruction in the development of brain-based horsemanship
  • Dr. Nathaniel White, a member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners for the past 50 years, who served as president in 2010. Since 2014, he has been the director of the Equine Disease Communication Center.

U.S. Pony Clubs was selected as a finalist based on the following attributes and abilities:

  • The vision and innovation of a true pioneer
  • Leadership, commitment, dedication, and the willingness to serve
  • Original and effective ideas or products, services, and programs
  • High moral, ethical, and professional standards

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. is an equine educational organization founded in 1954 that helps horse lovers develop a solid foundation in horsemanship along with riding skills. Pony Club is an equestrian organization uniquely focused on teaching horse management and safety first. Members learn horsemanship, teamwork, sportsmanship, confidence, and leadership skills while developing respect for land conservation, service, and education. Members proceed at an individualized pace to achieve personal goals and expand their knowledge.

As the organization prepares to celebrate its 70th anniversary, Pony Club offers programs for all ages and experience levels—from mounted and unmounted meetings, to clinics, camps, rallies, certifications, and national events, such as USPC Festival, USPC Championships, and the annual USPC Convention. A host of additional programs, such as international exchanges, the National Youth Board, National Youth Congress, scholarships, and the Visiting Instructors Program, are available to members who develop and progress through Pony Club. Visit www.ponyclub.org to learn more or find a Pony Club or Pony Club Riding Center near you.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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May 31, 2023 Five Things You Didn’t Know About Pony Club

May 31 , 2023 (Lexington, KY) — What’s in a name? The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) isn’t actually for ponies. When Pony Club was originally founded in Great Britain in 1929, the term “pony” was used generally to describe the mount of a youth rider. Horses, ponies, and equines of all sizes and breeds are welcome to participate with USPC members in the various activities available through the United States Pony Clubs.

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. was founded in 1954 to teach riding and the proper care of equines. In nearly 70 years, USPC has grown and changed with the times while remaining true to its original mission and core values.

Here are a few fun facts you might not know about today’s United States Pony Clubs:

1. There aren’t any age limits. Pony Club welcomes members of all ages.
While we are proud to be“where it all begins” for so many young riders, the United States Pony Clubs also welcomes adult members and anyone who wants to learn more about horse care and safe horsemanship. We have adult beginners and advanced adult riders, returning adult riders, parent-child duos who participate in Pony Club together, members who have earned their Century Award in dressage (where the combined age of the rider and mount equal 100 total years of age), as well as members who rejoin to complete certification goals and participate in Pony Club again as adults.

2. Western riders can be part of Pony Club, too.
USPC offers instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 English and western riding sports, including Dressage, Eventing, Gymkhana (barrels, pole-bending, and more), Horse Management, Mounted Games, Polocrosse, Quiz (a knowledge-based competition), Show Jumping, Tetrathlon (a four-phase event including running, swimming, riding, and shooting), Trail, and Western Dressage. With so many disciplines, Pony Club has something for everyone.

3. You don’t need to own a horse to join Pony Club.
No horse? No problem. Pony Club Riding Centers help make horses, equestrian sports, and Pony Club education accessible to more people, whether they own a horse or not. Pony Club Riding Centers are lesson barns and professional facilities licensed to offer the USPC curriculum and programming.

4. Pony Club teaches horse care, not just riding.
It’s not just about riding, or winning ribbons. Horse care is the cornerstone of the Pony Club program. Pony Club emphasizes horse management and care of our equine partners in all activities. The Pony Club certification program encourages members to set goals, expand their knowledge, and learn and progress at their own pace. From the beginning D-1 all the way to the advanced A certification, each of the Pony Club certification levels is more challenging than the preceding one and requires members to learn more about horses and their care, in addition to becoming increasingly accomplished riders, trainers, and instructors.

5. Lessons learned in Pony Club last a lifetime.
The benefits of the Pony Club program go far beyond the barn. In addition to horsemanship, Pony Club teaches valuable life skills, including teamwork, leadership, responsibility, confidence, and more—which all serve our members well, both personally and professionally.

Local Pony Clubs and Pony Club Riding Centers offer Pony Club education in safe horsemanship, with the opportunity for members to participate in mounted and unmounted meetings, clinics, Pony Club rallies, the Pony Club certification program, and much more. Anyone interested in becoming a Pony Club member may join a local club or riding center in their area. Visit the Pony Club website to learn more about membership and find a Pony Club or Riding Center nearby.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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May 23, 2023 2023 USPC Championships Central Has Been Cancelled

The USPC National Office has an important announcement regarding the 2023 USPC Championships Central that could impact your club, center, or region.

Due to low entries, the 2023 Championships Central has been cancelled. This decision was carefully considered by USPC leadership.

All competitors have received an email with an invitation to transfer their registration over to the 2023 USPC Championships East at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, N.C. However, if they wish to request a full refund, they may do so by emailing events@ponyclub.org.

At Pony Club, we value each and every family, competitor, and volunteer and hope to see everyone at a future USPC Championships, including the 2024 USPC Festival, July 15–22, 2024, in Lexington, Ky. for our 70th anniversary year.

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April 11, 2023 Find the United States Pony Clubs at Equestrian Events This Spring and Summer

April 11, 2023 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is headed for a busy spring and summer. We hope you will visit us and take advantage of special Pony Club-related activities at events like the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, Equine Affaire Ohio, and at the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) National Finals.

“The United States Pony Clubs finds it crucial to get out into the equestrian community to meet members and those interested in Pony Club,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “We always love meeting our members, talking to Pony Club alums, and answering questions from those who might be interested in the United States Pony Clubs. In addition, USPC has a lot of exciting activities planned in connection with the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event.” 

Please find us at the following events:

Equine Affaire Ohio, April 13–16, 2023, at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, Ohio: Visit the United States Pony Clubs at booth #1208 at Equine Affaire Ohio, and talk with National Office staff and local Pony Club leadership and learn about all that USPC offers for members.

IEA Hunt Seat and Dressage National Finals, April 26–30, 2023, at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, N.C. and the IEA Western National Finals, June 23–25, 2023, at the Will Rogers Memorial Coliseum Complex in Fort Worth, Texas: USPC is a proud sponsor of the Virtual Written Knowledge Test at the Hunt Seat, Dressage, and Western IEA National Finals and will present awards to winners of this knowledge-based competition at both locations. In addition, please visit the USPC booth on-site in Tryon and Fort Worth.

Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, April 27–30, 2023, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky.: USPC is a proud sponsor of this event, and the official USPC booth is located on The Hill at Booth #301 next to the Steeplechase Barn. Come talk to National Staff, find out more about Pony Club, and shop for official USPC educational materials, apparel, and accessories at Shop Pony Club.

USPC members and the public are encouraged to come to the USPC booth to find out about special events and contests, including a Sunday morning course walk of the 4* show-jumping course for participating USPC members and a drawing for an exclusive meet-and-greet barn tour. Visit Booth #301 on The Hill for a detailed schedule of events. 

In addition, Pony Club is sending four teams to compete in the EEI Mounted Games Invitational, which will take place Friday afternoon (1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.),  April 28, and on Saturday morning (starting at 8:30 a.m.), April 29, in the Walnut Arena. All attendees are welcome to come watch this fast-paced Mounted Games action. Mounted Games is one of USPC’s 11 competitive disciplines and features a series of relay-style races on horseback, where the riders must perform different skills, such as picking up objects from the ground while remaining in the saddle, weaving through a series of poles at high speeds, handing items off to teammates without slowing their ponies, and dunking objects into buckets (sometimes at a gallop!).

Not only can attendees enjoy watching Pony Club riders in the EEI Mounted Games Invitational, but members of the Bluegrass Pony Club and Keeneland Pony Club will once again serve as flag-bearers on Saturday night prior to the $226,000 Kentucky Invitational CSI3* Grand Prix and on Sunday morning during the opening ceremony presentation of officials before the CCI4*-S Jumping Test in the Rolex Stadium. 

For those who are unable to meet Pony Club at the equestrian events listed above, you can always find out more about Pony Club at www.ponyclub.org or call our office at 859-254-7669.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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March 24, 2023 Pony Club Announces Dates, Locations, and Sponsorship Opportunities for 2023 USPC Championships

March 24, 2023 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is heading to the National Equestrian Center, Lake St. Louis, Mo., June 5–11, for the 2023 USPC Championships Central and returning to the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) in Mill Spring, N.C., July 26–30, for the 2023 USPC Championships East.

Each year, USPC holds National Championships in Dressage, Western Dressage, Eventing, Mounted Games, Polocrosse, Quiz, Show Jumping, and Tetrathlon, plus the new addition of open competitions for Gymkhana and Trail. All members competing at USPC Championships qualify through participation in regional rallies, where teams of members are selected. Teams are scored not only on their success in the ring or on the field, but also on their Horse Management skills and knowledge.

“We look forward to the USPC Championships this year as our members showcase their competitive abilities, as well as their skills in horse management, leadership, teamwork, and sportsmanship,” said Teresa Woods, USPC Executive Director. “The USPC Championships represent the culmination of much hard work over the past year to qualify, and competitors should be proud to make it to the USPC Championships. We wish the best of luck to those participating.”

Sponsorship opportunities are currently available at all levels to support the 2023 USPC Championships. With one sponsorship, reach participants at both Championships locations with an audience of more than 500 competitors, 10 years of age and above, plus coaches and chaperones in eight different disciplines. More than 150 dedicated volunteers support these events, along with family members and the local equestrian communities.

Book your sponsorship now to maximize your exposure, and join Dimples Horse Treats, the Equine Veterinary Education Program at Lincoln Memorial University, Kentucky Performance Products, Kerrits, Shapley’s, The Horse, Triple Crown, Wintec, and Zoetis in supporting the 2023 USPC Championships.

Learn more about Pony Club’s sponsorship and event opportunities here, or contact USPC Development Director Marian Wahlgren at (859) 254-7669 or development@ponyclub.org. For more information about the 2023 USPC Championships, please visit the Championships page on the Pony Club website.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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March 16, 2023 U.S. Pony Clubs Team Wins Nations Cup at Inter-Pacific Exchange Held in New Zealand

March 16, 2023 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) was proud to send a team to New Zealand to compete in the Inter-Pacific Exchange (IPE), held January 8¬–26, 2023. The USPC team joined Pony Club teams from Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, and New Zealand to train, compete, and experience the local culture. During the exchange, teams participated in a combined test and rode in the Nations Cup show jumping competition on horses provided by the host country.

“International exchanges such as this are just one of the many incredible experiences available to Pony Club members,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “These programs are more than the trip of a lifetime—they bring out the best in teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship, and offer a special connection across countries and cultures through a shared love of horses and the strong belief in good horsemanship that Pony Club represents internationally.”

The USPC team won with the lowest cumulative score of the top three riders in each round of jumping, claiming the Nations Cup. Team Australia finished second, followed by New Zealand in third, and Canada rounding out the fourth place slot.

USPC team members included Keely Bechtol (Midsouth Region), Nora Goldfarb (Middle Tennessee Pony Club, Midsouth Region), Sierra Shurtz (Piedmont Pony Club, South Region), and Emily Thomas (Greenville Foothills Pony Club, Carolina Region), along with alternate Alexis DiPasqua (Radnor Hunt Pony Club, Eastern Pennsylvania Region), and Team Manager Alex Ambelang, an H-A alum from the Big Sky Region. The team was coached by Jennifer Merrick-Brooks, an A-level Pony Club alum who teaches and trains in Michigan.

“The team [members] were very prepared, amazing, and coachable individuals, and our manager was truly an asset in completing the team,” shares Merrick-Brooks “They were fantastic ambassadors for the USPC and their country. The team’s fundraising accomplishments were outstanding as well, fully funding their trip.”

To qualify for the team, members must be between 17 to 25 years of age, hold a B certification or above, and ride at Training Level Eventing or Show Jumping at 3′6″. The B certification is in the uppermost tier of Pony Club’s educational program, followed by the top-level A certification. Both require extensive knowledge and proficiency in riding and horse management.

Support for the 2023 USPC Inter-Pacific Exchange team was provided by many generous donors, including Kerrits, the official apparel sponsor of USPC; Divine Equine & Pet Supplies; the Dover Saddlery store in Brighton, Michigan; EquiJenn Equestrian International, LLC; Essex Classics; Equine Bonnets; Fairfax and Favor; FITS; Stockbubble; and Victoria Rose Equestrian Athletics.

The Inter-Pacific Exchange includes Pony Clubs organizations located within the Pacific Rim region, bordering the Pacific Ocean: the United States, Canada, Hong Kong, Australia, and New Zealand. During the exchange, teams compete for the Nations Cup. Depending on the host country, the competition may be either a Show Jumping- or Eventing-style competition. Countries take turns hosting the exchange, with the next one to be hosted by Australia.

To support the USPC International Exchange and Special Opportunity Fund, please contact Marian Wahlgren in the Development Department at (859) 254-7669 or email development@ponyclub.org. This fund supports USPC’s participation in a variety of international exchanges, including Foxhunting, Inter-Pacific, Mounted Games, Quiz, Tetrathlon, and more.

Anyone interested in becoming a Pony Club member may join a local club or riding center in their area. Visit the Pony Club website to learn more about membership and find a Pony Club or Riding Center nearby.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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January 31, 2023 Pony Club Presents Education and Awards at the 2023 USPC Convention, Sponsored by Stephens College and Supported by Via Nova Training

January 31, 2023 (Lexington, KY) — Pony Club members, leaders, and volunteers, as well as equine enthusiasts, gathered for the 2023 USPC Convention, Sponsored by Stephens College and Supported by Via Nova Training, held Jan. 18–22 at the Marriott St. Louis Grand in St. Louis, Mo. Nearly 450 attendees enjoyed more than 40 educational workshops and seminars, plus meetings and awards presentations, and special Pony Club activities. The event offered a blend of in-person, livestream, and on-demand content, bringing additional value and flexibility to the Convention experience.

Representatives from 36 Pony Club regions worked together to learn and expand Pony Club programming for current and future members. In addition to leadership training and educational workshops, the event offered a variety of opportunities—from exploring the Anatomy Lab, sponsored by Banixx Horse & Pet Care, to shopping at the trade fair and silent auction. Pony Club members got advice to prepare for Horse Management at certifications and rallies, including interactive displays in the Horse Management Hands-On Room sponsored by Indian Hills Thoroughbred Farm. Workshop topics delivered important horse health information and insights on equine behavior, rider fitness and sports psychology, career opportunities in the equine industry, plus updates on helmet safety, and much more. The youngest attendees enjoyed horse-related activities and educational fun in the Pony Paddock, sponsored by the Arabian Horse Youth Association, Breyer Model Horses, and Trafalgar Square Books.

Friday’s Convention activities welcomed 21 delegates to the 2023 National Youth Congress thanks to support from the Western & English Sales Association (WESA), as well as honoring three inductees into this year’s Academy of Achievement: Sandra Gebhart, DVM; Deb Kirsch, and William West “Wes” Thompson. The USPC Research Project Fair, presented by Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation with support from Kentucky Equine Research, was popular with members of all ages and levels, with 37 participants presenting 29 total projects, both in person and virtually. Pony Club leaders enjoyed a day of professional development sessions with guest speaker Jay McChord, who works regularly with equine industry organizations on ways to communicate and collaborate more effectively in today’s multigenerational environment. The training, supported by Specialty Program Insurors and the Mattingley Leadership Training Fund, is eligible for continuing education credits.

Many Pony Club awards were presented at the Saturday morning Meeting of the Corporation. Six clubs were recognized for their member dedication and longevity with the United States Pony Clubs and they received the Club Milestone Award, given to clubs reaching their 25th or 50th anniversary years. 
Four Pony Club members who earned A-level certifications received special recognition for their accomplishment. The A certification is the top level in the USPC certification program and is widely recognized throughout the equine industry as the mark of a highly competent and knowledgeable horse person.

The Brookfield Land Conservation Award was presented to Tidewater Pony Club from the Delmarva Region, while the Flash Teamwork Award went to beloved Pony Club mount Princess Fiona, owned by Beth Walkowicz and nominated by Lori Gmerek, district commissioner of East Aurora-Lake Erie Pony Club in the Western New York Region.

Princess Fiona shared a few words of acknowledgement via her humans on social media. “I’d like to thank Pony Club for developing riders who learn to do things like groom, mount, and ride tactfully and thoughtfully. Pony Club emphasizes respecting us, the equines, as athletes in our own right who need proper nutrition, extensive veterinary care, the best stable management, and, most importantly, TIDBITS. Thank you, Pony Club, for having two whole pages of the D Manual dedicated to tidbits.”

The Saturday night banquet was a highlight as attendees celebrated the recipients of the USPC Founders Awards, honoring dedicated longtime volunteers Debra Sue Waters and Brenda Yike. Five-star eventer and A-certified Pony Club alum Allison Springer, sponsored by Brooke USA Foundation, was the featured speaker. Springer shared how she got her start in Pony Club and how her experiences in USPC laid the foundation for her future success as a rider, trainer, coach, and equine welfare ambassador.

The 2023 USPC Convention was possible thanks to the support of our sponsors, including Convention title sponsor Stephens College; supporting sponsor Via Nova Training; USPC corporate sponsors Kerrits, Shapley’s, The Horse, Triple Crown Nutrition, Wintec, and Zoetis; and event sponsors, including the American Association of Equine Practitioners, Arabian Horse Youth Association, Banixx Horse & Pet Care, Breyer Model Horses, Brooke USA Foundation, Dressage4Kids, Fair Hill Saddlery, Grayson-Jockey Club Foundation, Indian Hills Thoroughbred Farm, Kentucky Equine Research, the Mattingley Leadership Training Fund, Santa Cruz Animal Health, Specialty Program Insurors, Trafalgar Square Books, Unicorn Trails, University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, and Western & English Sales Association.

Convention attendees will have access to view recorded content and on-demand workshops via the virtual event platform through August 1, 2023.

Proposals are now being accepted online for 2024 educational workshops; more information is available here. Pony Club invites all horse lovers to save the date for 2024 USPC Convention to be held Jan. 24–28 at the Peppermill Reno Resort in Reno, Nev., with trade fair, silent auction, and sponsorship opportunities available.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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January 31, 2023 Pony Club Achievements Recognized at the 2023 USPC Convention, Sponsored by Stephens College and Supported by Via Nova Training

January 31, 2023 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) was pleased to present many awards during the 2023 USPC Convention, Sponsored by Stephens College and Supported by Via Nova Training, held Jan. 18–22 in St. Louis, Mo.

Milestone Club Anniversaries

Six clubs were honored for their member dedication and longevity with the United States Pony Clubs, Inc. with the Club Milestone Award, given to clubs reaching their 25th or 50th anniversary years.

The following clubs were recognized with 25-Year Club Milestone Awards:

  • Live Oak Hounds Pony Club (Sunshine Region)
  • Tidewater Pony Club (Delmarva Region)
  • Two Rivers Pony Club (Northern Lakes Region)

The clubs below were honored with 50-Year Club Milestone Awards:

  • East Aurora-Lake Erie Pony Club (Western New York Region)
  • Piedmont Pony Club (South Region)
  • Tecolote Pony Club (Camino Real Region)

“We are proud to recognize these important milestones, said Karol Wilson, USPC Director of Member Services and Regional Administration. “These long-standing clubs have shown an incredible commitment to Pony Club, providing an example and inspiration to all. The dedication of their leadership is essential to USPC, and we look forward to celebrating future successes.”  

Local Pony Clubs such as these provide Pony Club education in safe horsemanship, with the opportunity for members to participate in mounted and unmounted meetings, clinics, Pony Club rallies, the Pony Club certification program, and much more.

A-Level Certification Achievements

Four Pony Club members who earned A-level certifications received special recognition for their accomplishment. The A certification is the top level in the USPC certification program and is widely recognized throughout the equine industry as the mark of a highly competent and knowledgeable horse person.
The following members were honored for achieving A-level certifications during 2022:

  • Audrey Buchanan (Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds Pony Club, Eastern Pennsylvania Region)
  • Margaret Buchanan (Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds Pony Club, Eastern Pennsylvania Region)
  • Eleanor Goldfarb (Middle Tennessee Pony Club, Midsouth Region)
  • Genevieve Munson (Northwest Arkansas Pony Club, Midwest Region)

“We are proud of our newest A recipients and the level of dedication and excellence this award represents,” said Connie Jehlik, USPC Director of Instruction Services. “I know all of these members will continue to achieve great success in future pursuits.”

Each of the Pony Club certification levels is more challenging than the preceding one and requires Pony Club members to learn more about horses and their care, and to become increasingly accomplished riders, trainers, and instructors. Along with an emphasis on learning to ride and care for horses, Pony Club promotes teamwork, a sense of responsibility, safety, good character, and self-confidence.

Anyone interested in becoming a Pony Club member may join a local club or riding center in their area. Visit the Pony Club website to learn more about membership and find a Pony Club or Riding Center nearby.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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December 20, 2022 Pony Club Announces Partnership Opportunities

December 20, 2022 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) invites the horse industry and equestrian community to partner with Pony Club in the coming year. Pony Club is the largest equine educational organization teaching horse care, safe horsemanship, and riding in both English and western disciplines. Members of all ages and mounts of all sizes are included in Pony Club, and the skills learned in Pony Club—leadership, sportsmanship, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community—last a lifetime.

“As a nonprofit organization, your support helps Pony Club continue to create more knowledgeable horse owners and grows the future of equestrian sport. Our members value education as they progress through the levels of Pony Club’s program, and we invite you to be part of that journey,” says Marian Wahlgren, USPC Director of Development.

Advertise with Pony Club
We offer a variety of ways to reach the Pony Club community with advertising through our membership magazine, Discover USPC, plus new opportunities through the Pony Club Blog and the Pony Club Podcast. Through Pony Club, you can reach an equine savvy audience with a broad age range, including Pony Club’s youth and adult members and their families, plus equine professionals, alumni, and a vast network of volunteers, all with buying power and interest in horse-related products.

Learn more at www.ponyclub.org/News/Magazine or email advertising@ponyclub.org.

Save the Date for Pony Club Events
Pony Club offers sponsorships for every budget, plus trade fair opportunities each year at our national events, including the USPC Convention in January and two USPC Championships in the summer. The USPC Festival is held every three years at the Kentucky Horse Park and combines championships competition in eight disciplines with educational clinics for an unforgettable experience. Make plans to join us for Pony Club’s premier event, as we celebrate USPC’s 70th Anniversary in 2024.

USPC Convention:
Thank you to the sponsors and vendors joining us January 18–22, 2023, in St. Louis, Mo.
Save the date: January 24–28, 2024, Reno, Nev.

2023 USPC Championships:
USPC Championships Central: June 5–11, National Equestrian Center, Lake St. Louis, Mo.
USPC Championships East: July 26–30, Tryon International Equestrian Center, Mill Spring, N.C.

USPC Festival: Coming in 2024
July 15–22, 2024, Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington, Ky.

Corporate Sponsorship
For companies interested in supporting Pony Club, USPC will design a custom sponsorship, including a mix of advertising and event opportunities, plus sponsor recognition online. Request information on becoming a Pony Club sponsor by completing the Sponsor Interest Form or email development@ponyclub.org.

More information about Pony Club and our partnership opportunities can be found in our media kit.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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November 30, 2022 Pony Club to Offer Educational Opportunities at the 2023 USPC Convention Sponsored by Stephens College January 18–22, 2023

November 30, 2022 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) invites equestrians of all ages and disciplines to attend the 2023 USPC Convention sponsored by Stephens College, hosted by USPC and the Midwest Region, taking place January 18–22, 2023, in St. Louis, Mo. The event will offer a blend of in-person, live streaming, and on-demand opportunities with more than 40 workshops and seminars, as well as trade fair shopping, networking, awards presentations, and more.

“Pony Club is excited about all the educational experiences that this event provides, in addition to opportunities for networking and personal growth,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “We look forward to seeing everyone in St. Louis and to welcoming those who will be joining us virtually through our hybrid format.”

Both in-person and virtual meeting attendees will have access to extensive education during the event and for six months following. Workshop sessions cover topics ranging from horse health and care to fitness for both horse and rider, sport psychology, equine behavior, safe horsemanship, trailering, and more.
Leadership training is an important part of the USPC Convention for Pony Club’s instructors, leaders, and the vast network of volunteers who make Pony Club happen at all levels. A special highlight will be the two professional development sessions on Friday, January 20, presented by Jay McChord, an expert on intergenerational communication who works with the equine industry in numerous capacities.

The USPC National Youth Congress, with support from the Western & English Sales Association (WESA), is also held during Convention and offers an extraordinary opportunity for growth and development for nominated delegates. This program recognizes outstanding members, ages 18-23, who are selected for their achievement, leadership, and volunteerism, and brings them together with accomplished Pony Club alumni from a variety of fields.

Popular event features include the Anatomy Lab, sponsored by Banixx Horse & Pet Care; the USPC Research Project Fair, sponsored by Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation with support from Kentucky Equine Research; the Pony Paddock, supported by the Arabian Horse Youth Association, Breyer Model Horses, and Trafalgar Square Books; a hands-on Horse Management Room, sponsored by Indian Hills Thoroughbred Farm, Inc., and the Saturday night banquet, which will feature five-star eventer Allison Springer as the keynote speaker, sponsored by Brooke USA Foundation. In addition to title sponsor Stephens College, support for the event is being provided by The American Association of Equine Practitioners, Dressage4Kids, Santa Cruz Animal Health, Specialty Program Insurors, Unicorn Trails, University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, and USPC’s corporate sponsors, which include Kerrits, Shapley’s, The Horse, Triple Crown Nutrition, Wintec, and Zoetis. Sponsorship and trade fair opportunities are currently available, with a deadline of December 9. Those interested should email development@ponyclub.org.

Registration for the 2023 USPC Convention sponsored by Stephens College is currently open online. USPC group rates on lodging are available at the Marriott St. Louis Grand, the host hotel for the event. For more information, visit www.ponyclub.org/Events/Convention.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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November 11, 2022 Pony Club to Offer Professional Development Training with Jay McChord at the 2023 USPC Convention Sponsored by Stephens College

November 11, 2022 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs is offering a special opportunity to get energized and inspired for the year ahead through professional development sessions with guest speaker Jay McChord at the 2023 USPC Convention sponsored by Stephens College, to be held January 18–22, 2023, in St. Louis, Mo., at the St. Louis Marriott Grand.

On Friday, January 20, McChord will present two half-day professional development sessions, which will be eligible for continuing education credits. McChord is a highly sought-after authority on effective leadership, communication, and collaboration in today’s multi-generational work environment who works with the equine industry in numerous capacities.

“Education is the cornerstone of the USPC Convention, and we are pleased to offer this chance for Pony Club’s leaders and volunteers to enhance their skills and knowledge,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “By investing in the people who make Pony Club run at all levels, we can create a better experience for all members and build a better, stronger organization.”
Convention attendees will benefit from the following sessions:

Relevant Leadership: Leveraging the Generations—Recruit, Retain, Manage, and Motivate Across All Generations

The most relevant leaders today understand there are two numbers that stand in the way of success—those numbers are eight (8) and five (5). Eight (8) is the 8 seconds that is the average attention span of someone today. Because people have such short attention spans, we all have smaller windows in which to communicate. Five (5) represents the five separate generations now working (and volunteering) side by side for the first time in history. The goal of this workshop is to help leaders understand the times we are in and know what to do in order to lead across multiple generations and build stronger relationships and organizations.

Relevant Leadership: Becoming 20% Better Personally, Professionally, and as an Organization

To be “better,” you need to know where you are (presently) and where you are aiming. In this workshop, McChord helps leaders “know the times” and “know what to do” in order to create and implement a plan to make themselves and Pony Club 20% better. Recognizing that substantial improvement can come from a few small areas is the key to making this happen. This session is about identifying and then seizing opportunities others are missing.
Equestrians of all ages and disciplines are invited to attend the 2023 USPC Convention sponsored by Stephens College. In addition to the professional development sessions, the event offers leadership training, 40-plus educational workshops and seminars, plus trade fair shopping, networking, and more. For event details and registration, visit www.ponyclub.org/Events/Convention

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, visit www.ponyclub.org.

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November 9, 2022 Pony Club Awards Members College Scholarships as Part of Its Commitment to Education

November 9, 2022 (Lexington, KY) — In its commitment to education, the United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC, or Pony Club) offers a variety of college scholarships and has awarded a total of $7,500 in college scholarships to seven Pony Club members in 2022. These exceptional recipients all demonstrated outstanding achievements in academics, sportsmanship, and leadership through horsemanship.

“Our college scholarships are just one more way we emphasize our commitment to education and give back to a membership that is always seeking to learn more—whether in college or through the Pony Club curriculum,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods.

Pony Club is honored to recognize the following individuals:

2022 USPC Triple Crown Nutrition Scholarship ($1,000), sponsored by Triple Crown Nutrition, official feed sponsor of USPC—Hannah Fisher

This scholarship rewards members for excellence in academics and outstanding achievements in Pony Club. This year’s recipient is Hannah Fisher of Berwyn, Pa., a C-3 Eventing and H-B Horse Management certified member of Radnor Hunt Pony Club in the Eastern Pennsylvania Region. She is pursuing computer science and biology majors at Haverford College. In 2019, she won the Margo Leithead Cornerstone Award for Excellence in Horse Management with her team during the USPC Championships, along with recognition in the Bronze Medal Club in the USPC/United States Eventing Association Eventing Recognition Awards in 2019.

2022 USPC Dorothy Renfro Memorial Scholarship ($1,000)—Emily Garside

This scholarship is awarded annually for higher education to an active Pony Club member who exhibits the qualities that Dorothy Renfro valued most: leadership, horse management, and volunteering time and energy to beneficial activities. Emily Garside of New Franklin, Ohio, was this year’s recipient. A member of Bath Pony Club in the Tri-State Region, Garside has earned her C-3 Eventing and H-B Horse Management certifications. She is a biochemistry major attending the University of Akron. Garside also earned the 2021-2022 Bath Pony Club Leadership Award and was a member of the 2020 USPC National Youth Congress.

2022 Anson W.H. Taylor Memorial Scholarship from USPC and Equine Land Conservation Resource ($1,500)—Liesel Fazekas

The Anson W. H. Taylor Memorial Scholarship is sponsored by Pony Club and the Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR) in memory of former Pony Club President and ELCR founder Anson Taylor. The scholarship is awarded to a current Pony Club member who has been actively committed to land conservation efforts. Liesel Fazekas of Kennesaw, Ga., is a C-3 Eventing and H-B Horse Management certified member of Atlanta Pony Club in the South Region. She is planning on majoring in environmental engineering. Fazekas participated in a local conservation project to prevent development of Kemp Park and has also interned with the Environmental Protection Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

2022 USPC Jubilee Scholarship ($1,000 each)—Rachel Marsh and Abigail Frank

The Pony Club Jubilee Scholarships are awarded to two Pony Club members for excellence in academic pursuits and outstanding achievements in Pony Club. The scholarship was established in honor of USPC’s 50th anniversary in 2004. A member of Timber Ridge Pony Club in the North Central Prairie Region, Rachel Marsh of Iowa City, Iowa, has been awarded a 2022 USPC Jubilee Scholarship. She has earned her B in Eventing, D-3 in Dressage, and H-B in Horse Management. She plans to pursue a degree in marketing. Marsh competed at the 2021 USPC Festival in Eventing, was a member of the 2021 Virtual Dressage Exchange Team, and assists her club with unmounted instruction.

In addition, Abigail Frank of Portland, Ore., earned a 2022 USPC Jubilee Scholarship. A member of the Rose City Pony Club in the Oregon Region, Frank has earned a C-1 in Dressage, D-3 in Eventing, and H-B in Horse Management. She is intent on majoring in aeronautical and astronautical engineering at Purdue University. Frank has competed at several USPC Championships in Quiz and Show Jumping, with first-place team finishes and served as a local-level examiner in her region for more than five years.

2022 Stanley R. and Martha C. Helbert Memorial Scholarship ($1,000)—Savannah Connor

The Stanley R. and Martha C. Helbert Scholarship is awarded annually to a Pony Club member pursuing the liberal arts in areas such as literature, music, theater, and visual arts. Savannah Connor of Davenport, Iowa, was this year’s recipient and is a C-1 Eventing and C-2 Horse Management certified member of Quad Cities Pony Club in the North Central Prairie Region. She plans to major in biology and participate in various music ensembles at Illinois State University. In addition to her Pony Club activities, Connor was the principal bassoonist with the Quad Cities Youth Symphony from 2018-2022.

2022 USPC Bodgie Read Memorial Scholarship ($1,000)—Julia Magsam

The Bodgie Read Memorial Scholarship is given to a Dressage- or Eventing-certified member who exhibits the qualities that Bodgie Read valued most: volunteerism and participation in both disciplines, and this year’s recipient is Julia Magsam of Sadieville, Ky. Magsam is a C-1 Eventing, C-3 Dressage and H-B Horse Management certified member of Bluegrass Pony Club in the Midsouth Region. She is majoring in biomedical sciences at Georgetown College. In addition to competing in dressage, Magsam assists with Horse Management at rallies, unmounted instruction with her club, and has been a local-level examiner within her region. She is also an active volunteer with the Kentucky Dressage Association and the MidSouth Eventing and Dressage Association.
Pony Club scholarship recipients are selected through an application process administered by Pony Club, with essay submissions reviewed by a scholarship committee and chosen according to the unique requirements for each opportunity. Visit the Pony Club website to learn more about our college scholarship opportunities.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

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October 7, 2022 Pony Club International Alliance Virtual Dressage Show

October 7, 2022 (Lexington, KY) — Pony Club members from around the world are competing internationally in the virtual arena of the second Pony Club International Alliance Dressage Show. The virtual dressage show will be held October 17–28 with five classes consisting of: Training Level 14 and under, First Level 18 and under, Second Level 25 and under, Pas de Deux (all ages), and Prix Caprilli (all ages).

This event is to further promote the international organization through an activity that involves Pony Club members in different countries. While many areas around the world are back to more normal activities following the COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions, this virtual event continues to offer expanded opportunities for engagement. It also serves as a valuable showcase for the talents of Pony Club members worldwide, as well as the benefits of Pony Club’s education and instruction.

The excitement for this year’s PCIA Virtual Dressage Show is mounting among the 160 entries (up from 144 competitors last year) competing from Australia, Canada, Hong Kong (China), Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States, Singapore, and the Cayman Islands.

Final results will be judged and finalized by November 12, 2022.

About Pony Club International Alliance  The Pony Club International Alliance ( PCIA) is a combined governing body for international activities that grew out of The Pony Club, the founding Pony Club incorporated in the United Kingdom. The PCIA oversees all International Exchanges and is responsible for maintaining the rules and guidelines for hosting all International Exchanges. Countries in the Alliance include Australia, Canada, Hong Kong (China), Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom, and the United States.

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September 9, 2022 Pony Club Launches Regional Challenge Fundraising Campaign Encouraging Members to “Give a Leg Up to Get a Leg Up”

September 9, 2022 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) announces the launch of the Regional Challenge fundraising campaign to support the 2022 USPC Annual Fund. The challenge will raise funds vital to this 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization while also giving back to benefit members in all of Pony Club’s 41 regions.

The campaign runs September 1–November 30. Anyone can donate at bit.ly/donate-regional-challenge-2022 during the Regional Challenge and support one or more Pony Club regions. Simply click the donate button and type in a region where it asks “Would you like to credit this donation to a specific fundraiser or team?” Donations go to the 2022 USPC Annual Fund, which supports all members of Pony Club.

“In addition to horsemanship and riding, Pony Club teaches so many important leadership and life skills. The USPC Annual Fund plays an important role in helping us to keep Pony Club dues affordable and expand programming and opportunities,” explains USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “The more each region raises, the more they will get back. When you give a leg up, you get a leg up!”

Each Pony Club region will receive 10% back of the total amount raised for their region. The region that raises the most money will win an exclusive live regional Zoom party sponsored by Ride iQ with world-class coaches, riders, and special guests.

“Pony Club is all about teamwork,” says USPC Development Director Marian Wahlgren. “Working together, we know we can exceed the $100,000 goal for the Regional Challenge. We are excited to engage our members in the fundraising process and see which region can secure the most donors to support the USPC Annual Fund. Each donation makes a difference for Pony Club.”

Learn more about the USPC Annual Fund Regional Challenge at bit.ly/2022-regional-challenge-info or email development@ponyclub.org.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, please visit www.ponyclub.org.

 

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June 30, 2022 2022 USPC Championships West Kicks Off July 1; 2022 USPC Championships East Starts July 27

June 30, 2022 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. is heading to Twin Rivers Ranch in Paso Robles, Calif., July 1-8, for the 2022 USPC Championships West, and Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) in Mill Spring, N.C., July 27-31 for the 2022 USPC Championships East.
Each year, USPC holds National Championships in Dressage, Western Dressage, Eventing, Mounted Games, Polocrosse, Quiz, Show Jumping, and Tetrathlon, plus the new addition of invitational competitions for Gymkhana and Western Trail. All members competing at Championships qualify through participation in regional rallies, where teams of members are selected. Teams are scored not only on their success in the ring or on the field, but also on their Horse Management skills and knowledge.

“We really look forward to the USPC Championships every year, as our members showcase, not only their competitive skill, but also their skills in horse management, leadership, teamwork, and sportsmanship,” said Teresa Woods, USPC Executive Director.

For many members of Pony Club, the USPC Championships are the culmination of their hard work over the past year. Their dedication to their clubs, horses, and studies is exemplified in their ability to qualify for the USPC Championships, where they can exhibit their skill and knowledge. More than just a competition, the USPC Championships provides excellent educational opportunities for members to continue to expand their knowledge and capabilities. Competitors should be proud to make it to the USPC Championships, and The United States Pony Clubs wishes the best of luck to those participating.

Pony Club would like to thank the generous sponsors of the 2022 USPC Championships:

• Achieve Equine
• C-4
• Hodges Badge Company
• Horseshoe Greetings
• Horse Tech
• Kentucky Performance products, awards ceremony sponsor
• Santa Cruz Animal Health
• Shires Equestrian Products
• Tipperary Equestrian
• Kerrits, the official apparel sponsor of the Pony Club
• Shapley’s, the official grooming product sponsor of Pony Club
• TheHorse.com
• Triple Crown Nutrition, the official feed sponsor of Pony Club
• Wintec, the official saddle sponsor of Pony Club
• Zoetis, the official equine health and wellness partner of Pony Club

To learn more about the 2022 USPC Championships, please visit the Pony Club website, where guidebooks for both the East and West USPC Championships are available.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, and care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, visit www.ponyclub.org.

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June 9, 2022 New Equine Health & Wellness Partnership Between the United States Pony Clubs and Zoetis Inc.

June 9, 2022 (Lexington, KY)—The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) is thrilled to announce a new partnership agreement with Zoetis Inc. (Zoetis) as the Official Equine Health & Wellness Partner.

“The Zoetis Equine team is proud to support the Pony Club mission, which teaches the next generation the horsemanship, leadership and responsibility to enjoy a lifetime of horse ownership, riding, and other activities with horses,” said Jen Grant, Head of Marketing, U.S. Equine for Zoetis. “From the barn to the veterinary clinic to a Pony Club rally, we’re committed to being by the side of horses and their caregivers.”

As a long-time innovator in the animal health field, Zoetis offers leading equine health products, including Quest® Gel and Quest® Plus Gel dewormers, Dormosedan® Gel (detomidine hydrochloride) oral sedative, Pro-Stride® APS, a regenerative medicine device, the Core EQ Innovator® vaccine, and much more. For over 70 years, Zoetis and its legacy companies have been committed to helping horses live healthier, happier lives.

“Zoetis and Pony Club share a commitment to providing horses with the best possible care, so this partnership is a natural fit,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “Through their trusted products, education and resources, we value all that Zoetis has to offer Pony Club members and their horses and ponies. We look forward to working side by side with the team at Zoetis to improve horse care knowledge at all levels and celebrate the special connection that comes from caring for a horse.”

USPC members can look forward to receiving exciting educational content from Zoetis across the USPC platforms, including Discover USPC, Pony Club’s membership publication; and the bimonthly Pony Club E-News digital newsletter, which is available for anyone to subscribe to. Members will also have opportunities to engage with Zoetis experts at the USPC Convention to be held in January.

“I couldn’t be more excited that Zoetis is now an official sponsor of the United States Pony Clubs,” said Ken Bunn, Executive Account Manager at Zoetis and proud 7-year Pony Club volunteer. “Through volunteering with my local Pony Club, I’ve seen firsthand how much horses add to the lives of young people by teaching them responsibility, instilling leadership qualities, and building self-confidence. Both Zoetis and Pony Club have long been dedicated to providing horses with the best possible care, so it makes sense to bring these two organizations together to further support the next generation of equestrians and the horses that teach them so much.”

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. – The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, visit www.ponyclub.org.

About Zoetis – As the world's leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture the world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After 70 years of innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide, from livestock farmers to veterinarians and pet owners. The company's leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. A Fortune 500 company, Zoetis generated revenue of $7.8 billion in 2021 with approximately 12,100 employees.

The Zoetis Equine division is committed to providing horse care that horse owners can count on. The Zoetis team includes numerous equine veterinarians and other experts who are inspired daily by the opportunity and profound responsibility to support horses, the owners who love them and the equine veterinarians and other care team members who safeguard their well-being every day. Whether at the clinic or in the field, Zoetis is always by your side with a comprehensive, innovative portfolio of equine products and services at every step of a horse’s care and throughout the journey of a horse’s life. Visit ZoetisEquine.com to learn more.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Do not use DORMOSEDAN GEL in horses with pre-existing atrioventricular (AV) or sinoatrial (SA) block, with severe coronary insufficiency, cerebrovascular disease, respiratory disease, or chronic renal failure. Do not use in anesthetized or sedated horses, or in conditions of shock, severe debilitation or stress due to extreme heat, cold, fatigue or high altitude. Do not use in horses intended for human consumption. Handle gel-dosing syringes with caution to avoid direct exposure to skin, eyes or mouth. See full Prescribing Information.

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June 2, 2022 New Partnership Between the United States Pony Clubs and Western Dressage Association of America

June 2, 2022 (Lexington, KY)—The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) is pleased to announce a new partnership agreement with the Western Dressage Association of America (WDAA).

“Western Dressage is a great fit with Pony Club’s education and activities,” said Erin Woodall, USPC Activities and Events Director. “We see a real opportunity for growth in Western Dressage, and through this partnership with WDAA, we will be better able to promote and grow the sport within Pony Club.”

“I am thrilled about the new partnership between WDAA and Pony Club,” said Cindy Butler, WDAA president  “Our missions, visions, and values flow together to encourage better horsemanship through education. Not only do our organizations make declarations of our values, but we also implement programs to make our visions come to life and that benefit horses and riders everywhere. I look forward to exploring more ways WDAA can work with Pony Club in the future.”

The partnership will launch in conjunction with the 2022 USPC Championships, including Championships West taking place July 1–8 at Twin Rivers Ranch in Paso Robles, Calif., and Championships East to be held July 27–31 at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, N.C.

“Pony Club is especially excited to offer the USPC Western Dressage Championships as a WDAA-recognized event for the first time in 2022, and to host open WDAA classes in conjunction with Championships West,” said Woodall.

Pony Club has been incorporating Western disciplines for more than 10 years and offers opportunities to compete and earn certifications in Western riding. Western Dressage was the first Western discipline to be offered at regional rallies and National Championships beginning in 2017, and is increasingly popular with Pony Club members.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) —  The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in 11 competitive disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, visit www.ponyclub.org.

About the Western Dressage Association of America (WDAA) — The Western Dressage Association of America (WDAA) is an educational non-profit 501(c)(3) with a primary focus on education about and the promotion of Western Dressage. The United States Equestrian Federation has recognized WDAA as the sole affiliate representing the discipline of Western Dressage. WDAA's mission is to build an equine community that combines the western traditions of horse and rider with classical dressage by honoring the horse, valuing the partnership between horse and rider, and celebrating the legacy of the American West. For more information, visit www.westerndressageassociation.org.

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April 27, 2022 Pony Club to Have a Big Presence at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event

April 27, 2022 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Club, Inc (USPC) will have a large presence at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, which kicks off on Thursday, April 28, and runs through Sunday, May 1, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky. Pony Club serves as a sponsor of the event and also offers several exclusive opportunities for members during the “Best Weekend All Year.” Don’t forget to visit booth 303 on The Hill behind the Rolex Stadium and meet USPC staff and volunteers, learn more about the organization, and purchase from an assortment of items and apparel at Shop Pony Club. And if you are a USPC member or alumni, don’t forget to let us know!

One of the opportunities sponsored by Pony Club during the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event is the Pony Club Meet and Greet, which includes a barn tour with several Pony Club alumni, including Woods Baughman, who is competing for the first time in the 5*, and Alex Ambelang and Courtney Carson, who will be using their Pony Club knowledge while managing all five of Doug Payne’s mounts for the weekend. The Meet and Greet is tentatively scheduled for Friday afternoon for current Pony Club members ages 12-20 and certified D-3 HM or above. Only 10 members are chosen, and those wishing to enter the drawing for this opportunity must stop by the USPC booth on The Hill to put their name in for a chance of a lifetime! Names will be drawn at 5 pm on Thursday, and the lucky winners will be notified Thursday night of when and where to meet on Friday, April 29.

Another USPC-sponsored activity during the weekend is an exclusive sneak peek at the 2022 four-star stadium course on Sunday morning with course designer Steve Stephens. Scheduled for 8 am at the Rolex Stadium, any USPC participating member is encouraged to walk the path of champions. We are unable to accept late arrivals however, so please be on time, and visit the Pony Club booth for more information and finalized times.

In addition, National Youth Board member Ruth Rosendaul of Louisville, Ky., a member of Ariatti Equestrian Center, was selected as the Ann Haller USPC media intern in the Land Rover Kentucky Media Center.

Keeneland Pony Club and Bluegrass Pony Club will be well-represented during the opening ceremony for the $225,000 Kentucky Invitational CSI3* on Saturday evening at 5:30 pm in the Rolex Stadium, and six USPC riders will carry flags for Sunday’s opening ceremony and presentation of officials and flags before the official CCI4* Jumping test kicks off in the Rolex Stadium. All flag riders will be outfitted courtesy of Kerrits, the official apparel sponsor of USPC.

Pony Club connections can be found in every aspect of the event—from competitors, stewards, volunteers, coaches, spectators, and demonstration riders, all who show that Pony Club really is where it all begins. The following competitors at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event have been or are currently members of USPC:

CCI5*

  • Doug Payne
  • Alexandra Knowles
  • Lauren Nicholson
  • Jessica Phoenix
  • Hannah Sue Burnett
  • Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp
  • Hawley Bennett-Awad
  • Phillip Dutton
  • Booli Selmayr
  • Woods Baughman
  • Alexandra MacLeod
  • Ariel Grald
  • Ashlynn Meuchel
  • Colleen Rutledge
  • Zoe Crawford
  • Hallie Coon
  • Boyd Martin
  • Bobby Meyerhoff
  • Megan O’Donoghue
  • Lexi Scovil
  • Sydney Elliott
  • Marc Grandia
  • Bruce “Buck” Davidson, Jr.

CCI4*

  • Phillip Dutton
  • Doug Payne
  • Ellen Doughty-Hume
  • Alexandra Baugh
  • Sophie Click
  • Meaghan Marinovich-Burdick
  • Ryleigh Leavitt
  • Bobby Meyerhoff
  • Missy Miller
  • Heather Gillette
  • Jessica Phoenix
  • Sara Kozumplik
  • Bruce “Buck” Davidson, Jr.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, visit www.ponyclub.org.

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April 14, 2022 Pony Club and the Interscholastic Equestrian Association Announce Continued Partnership

April 14, 2022 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) is pleased to announce the continuation of their partnership with the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA). As a longtime sponsor of IEA, USPC has provided horsemanship tests and quizzes for IEA riders, as well as prizes for the IEA National Finals Horsemanship Test.

“Our partnership with IEA is an important opportunity to bring Pony Club’s horsemanship education to this great group of young equestrians,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “Together with IEA, we share the common goal of growing participation in the equine industry and promoting access to horses and riding sports.”

“Horsemanship Education is an important aspect of the IEA experience,” says IEA Executive Director Roxane Durant. “Not only have we benefited from the partnership with USPC at National Finals, but over the past decade, IEA has developed our own year-round online Horsemanship Program with the support of USPC that continues to grow and expand each year.”

The IEA National Finals Horsemanship Test is an online written and timed exam made up of discipline-specific questions, as well as general questions pertaining to equine health, nutrition, tack, best-practices and IEA rules. The test is open to all IEA Rider and Jr. Contributing Members, and is scored for Upper School and Middle School divisions. In addition to the test, riders submit answers to tie-breaker essay questions in order to determine placings. The top eight Upper School (grades 9-12) and top eight Middle School (grades 4-8) participants are awarded. As part of the sponsorship agreement, USPC has provided ribbons and first-place awards for the IEA National Finals Horsemanship Test for many years.  Test questions are made up from various USPC manuals and other source materials. Each year, approximately 100-150 riders submit answers for the National Finals Horsemanship Test.

Pony Club will be at the IEA National Finals on April 28-May 1, 2022 in Harrisburg, Pa., as the title sponsor of the Horsemanship Test for the event, which will feature all three IEA disciplines (Hunt Seat, Western and Dressage). Pony Club members, IEA riders and coaches, and all horse lovers in attendance are invited to stop by the Pony Club booth to say hello and learn more about Pony Club. Visit www.rideiea.org/2022nationalfinals for details.

About the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) — Now in its 20th year, the IEA has over 14,250 members across the United States participating in hunt seat, western and dressage disciplines. The non-profit 501(c)(3) IEA was organized to promote and improve the quality of equestrian competition and instruction available to middle and secondary school students (grades 4-12) and is open to public and private schools and barn teams. There is no need for a rider to own a horse, because the IEA supplies a mount and tack to each equestrian for competitions. Its purpose is to set minimum standards for competition, provide information concerning the creation and development of school-associated equestrian sport programs, and to generally promote the common interests of safe riding instruction. For more information, visit www.rideiea.org.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. For more information, visit www.ponyclub.org.

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March 15, 2022 The United States Pony Clubs and Ride iQ Announce Strategic Partnership

(Lexington, KY and Ocala, FL) — Today, The United States Pony Clubs (USPC) and Ride iQ are pleased to announce their strategic partnership, bringing together USPC’s trusted educational curriculum with Ride iQ’s innovative learning platform. Ride iQ is a first-of-its-kind coaching platform with listen-while-you-ride audio lessons taught by world-class coaches.

Technology is helping to significantly improve athletic skills and performance across all sports, and equestrian athletes stand to benefit, too. One of the greatest limitations to a rider’s progress lies in ineffective independent schooling. Ride iQ transforms independent schooling and empowers equestrian athletes to progress toward their goals through access to world-class instruction.

“With Ride iQ, riders have a phenomenal coach in their ear providing direction, insight, and reminders for every step of their independent rides. Through our collaboration with USPC, Ride iQ’s audio lessons will help Pony Club members of all levels develop fundamental horsemanship skills, strengthen their partnerships, ride more safely, and achieve their next certifications. It’s an absolute game changer,” said Jessa Lux, co-founder of Ride iQ.

Ride iQ was founded in 2021 by two Pony Club alumni, sisters McKinsey and Jessa Lux. While the Ride iQ mobile app and audio lessons are foundational to the platform, other Ride iQ membership benefits include access to weekly live virtual Office Hours with Ride iQ coaches and guest experts, a private Facebook community for members and coaches, and a selection of exclusive podcasts.

The Ride iQ platform currently features 18 coaches across eventing, hunter/jumper, and dressage disciplines. Every Ride iQ coach has proven their ability to produce highly capable riders and has earned a reputation for exceptional horsemanship. Given that selection criteria, it’s not a coincidence that several Ride iQ coaches have strong Pony Club backgrounds, including “A” graduates Ema Klugman (5* event rider), Doug Payne (US Olympic event rider), and Gina Smith (Canadian Olympic dressage rider). Two Pony Club national examiners are also in the process of recording Ride iQ lessons that will be available soon.

Ride iQ’s growing lesson library already has over 300 audio lessons to choose from. Every audio lesson is marked with a Pony Club certification level to help Pony Club members navigate to suitable and relevant lessons. Lessons range from exercises at the walk to working on advanced skills.

Ride iQ membership includes unlimited access to the audio lessons and all other Ride iQ benefits for $29.99/month or $249/year. Through the USPC-Ride iQ partnership, Pony Club members will get discounted access to Ride iQ. As a partnership launch promotion, Pony Club members and their friends and families are invited to use the promo code “USPC” for 50% off their first Ride iQ membership payment (i.e. $15 for the first month or $125 for the first year). The 50% discount will be available for 72 hours, from March 15 through March 17. After that, the “USPC” promo code will generate a 15% discount off the first payment.

“The USPC-Ride iQ collaboration represents a significant step forward in enabling Pony Club members to take ownership of their own development through innovative equestrian sports technology and expanded access to top-tier coaching,” said McKinsey Lux, co-founder of Ride iQ.

“We are excited to expand Pony Club’s educational opportunities through our partnership with Ride iQ,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “As a leader in equestrian education, we feel this technology offers unlimited potential for Pony Club members to enhance their learning as they work toward their goals.”

About Ride iQ — Ride iQ is the first audio-focused training platform for equestrians and offers something completely new: the opportunity to get on-demand, listen-while-you-ride instruction. The private Ride iQ mobile app features 300+ lessons with options suitable for equestrians at every level. Ride iQ has coaches across hunter/jumper, eventing, and dressage including Leslie Law (British eventer, individual gold medalist), Gina Smith (Olympic dressage rider), Doug Payne (Olympic eventer, Grand Prix jumper), and several others. Visit Ride-iQ.com to get started or connect with Ride iQ on Facebook or Instagram.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. 

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February 24, 2022 Pony Club Announces Dates and Locations for 2022 USPC Championships East and West

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) is pleased to announce the dates and locations for the 2022 USPC Championships East and West. The USPC Championships West will be heading to Twin Rivers Ranch in Paso Robles, CA, July 1-8, 2022. The USPC Championships East will be returning to the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) in Mill Spring, NC, July 27-31, 2022.

“Pony Club is thrilled to be hosting our championships competition at two top-notch facilities,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “We look forward to these two great competitive events in the coming year and the memorable experience that participation offers for our members.”

USPC offers Championship competition in Dressage, Western Dressage, Eventing, Mounted Games, Polocrosse, Quiz, Show Jumping and Tetrathlon. Pony Club members compete as a team and are scored not only on their riding performance, but also on their Horse Management skills and knowledge.

For 2022, invitational competitions will again be offered for USPC’s newest disciplines, Gymkhana and Western Trail. All equestrians (current Pony Club members and non-members alike) are welcome to attend and compete in this special opportunity.

“We are excited to offer these new opportunities that are more inclusive of Western riders,” said USPC Activities & Events Director Erin Woodall. “The enthusiasm is building and having these invitational events at Championships is a great way to show what these new disciplines are all about.”

USPC Championships bring together hundreds of members, volunteers, and families for a fun-filled event. Visit www.ponyclub.org/Events/Championships for more information about USPC Championships. For information about sponsorships, advertising and other opportunities, contact advertising@ponyclub.org.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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February 9, 2022 2022 USPC Convention Marks Success with Hybrid Event Format

February 9, 2022 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) gathered nearly 500 equestrians of all ages for the 2022 USPC Convention, held January 26-30, in a new hybrid format with a blend of in-person, livestream, and on-demand opportunities including more than 60 workshops and seminars plus meetings and awards presentations. As an added benefit, Convention attendees will enjoy extended access to all content on the digital event platform for the next six months.

Pony Club members, leaders and equine enthusiasts met in Norfolk, Virginia, for networking and education with additional attendees logging in online. Representatives from 36 United States Pony Club Regions participated in the event, working to expand Pony Club programming for current and future members. In addition to educational workshops, attendees enjoyed a variety of activities, from shopping the trade fair and viewing research project fair entries to exploring the popular USPC Anatomy Lab presented by Banixx Horse & Pet Care. Pony Club leaders enjoyed a special professional development seminar, and members got advice to prepare for horse management at certifications and rallies. Workshop tracks focused on leadership, instruction, veterinary care, and riding disciplines.

The convention welcomed 19 delegates to the 2022 National Youth Congress as well as honoring the inductees into this year’s Academy of Achievement: Sally Ike and Carol Kozlowski.

Many Pony Club awards were announced at the Saturday morning Meeting of the Corporation, sponsored by the University of Louisville College of Business Equine Industry Program. Alley-Cat Pony Club (Western New York Region), Conestoga Pony Club (Delmarva Region), Dune Riders Pony Club (Lake Shore Region), Gambel Oak Pony Club (Intermountain Region), Redwood Hills Pony Club (Middle California Region), and Sawtooth Pony Club (Intermountain Region) were recognized with 25-Year Club Milestone Awards. Connecticut Valley Pony Club (New York/Upper Connecticut Region), Covered Bridge Pony Club (Midsouth Region), Hinkson Valley Pony Club (Midwest Region), River Bend Pony Club (Virginia Region), Tuscawilla Pony Club (Sunshine Region) and Woodbrook Hunt Pony Club (Northwest Region) were honored with 50-Year Club Milestone Awards. Upper-level members received special recognition for achieving Pony Club’s highest certification, with members Arielle Aharoni (Amwell Valley Hounds Pony Club, New Jersey Region), Alexa Ehlers (National Member), Jessica Fan (Tejas Pony Club, Rio Grande Region) and Catherine Meehan (Blue Ridge Hunt Pony Club, Virginia Region) earning A certifications. The Brookfield Land Conservation Award was presented to Miami Valley Pony Club and Zoe Hagedorn in the Midsouth Region, while the Flash Teamwork Award went to Deer Creek Pony Club in the Sierra Pacific Region.

At the Saturday night banquet, Pony Club welcomed newly elected USPC President Jennifer Sweet. Winners of the USPC Research Project Fair presented by Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation and supported by Kentucky Equine Research were announced, and attendees celebrated the recipients of the USPC Founders Awards for 2021, recognizing longtime volunteers Darlene Connors and Kim Lowman Vollmer for their dedicated service to Pony Club. Outgoing USPC President Ben Duke presented the inaugural President’s Recognition Award to Gegi Winslett in gratitude for her commitment to Pony Club and all the knowledge and wisdom she has contributed to the organization over the years.

The 2022 USPC Convention was possible thanks to the support of our sponsors, including the Arabian Horse Youth Association, Banixx Horse & Pet Care, Ballyhack Farm, Blue Ridge Equine Clinic, Dressage4Kids, Earth-Tek, Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, HandsOn Gloves, Harmonia, Inc., Harmony Hills Equestrian Center, Kentucky Equine Research, Laura King, Major League Eventing, Old Dominion Equine Associates, Old Dominion Region, Victoria Pickett, ODR Alumna; Kenzie and Cora Raniowski, The Rising Equestrian Pro, St. Andrews University, Specialty Program Insurors, Sweet Briar College, Trafalgar Square Books, University of Louisville College of Business Equine Industry Program, the Virginia Horse Center Foundation, the Virginia Horse Industry Board, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, and Western & English Sales Association, as well as USPC corporate sponsors Kerrits, Shapley’s Grooming Products, Triple Crown Nutrition, Wintec, and The Horse.

The 2023 USPC Convention will be held January 18-22, 2023, as Pony Club will explore the “Gateway to the Future” with the Midwest Region at the Marriott St. Louis Grand in St. Louis, Missouri.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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December 21, 2021 Horse & Country and The United States Pony Clubs Announce Wide-Ranging Partnership

Lexington, KY – December 21, 2021 – Leading equestrian sports network Horse & Country and The United States Pony Clubs Inc. (USPC), a nationwide organization dedicated to developing character, leadership, confidence, and a sense of community through teaching riding and proper horse care, have announced the details of a wide-ranging partnership. The rationale behind the new arrangement is underpinned by each organization’s ability to offer benefits to the other’s membership community.

Key features of the partnership include:

• 15% discount on annual membership of H&C’s streaming service H&C+ for USPC members
• Cross promotion of core campaigns to each other’s social communities
• Ad campaigns on each other’s media properties including on H&C+ live streams and in USPC newsletters, publications, and more

H&C Partnership Manager Tattie Singer commented, “Over the last year we’ve significantly increased the number of events we’re streaming on H&C+, and we’re planning even more for 2022. This exciting partnership with USPC will help us connect with a passionate group of next-generation equestrians throughout the United States and share our quality equestrian programming with new audiences.”

USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods added, “We are excited to partner with Horse & Country to offer the Pony Club membership this special opportunity to view some of the most exciting equine events from around the world. In addition, our members will love the Masterclasses and training sessions offered by some of our own Pony Club graduates.”

Beyond H&C’s extensive sports coverage, both live and on demand, H&C+ members also get access to more than 1,800 hours of equestrian programming including content from all disciplines, masterclasses and training series, barn tours, rider profiles, and documentaries.

Members can watch online or with H&C’s mobile apps, as well as on Xfinity, Roku, Apple TV, Android TV, and Amazon Fire. Membership is just $9.99 per month and full details on how to join can be found at www.horseandcountry.tv.

Media and Advertising Contact:

Tattie Singer
tatties@horseandcountry.tv
781-985-0796
About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc.
The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club. Learn more at www.ponyclub.org

About Horse & Country
Horse & Country is the leading international sports network for the passionate and active equestrian community. Headquartered in London, it is available globally via connected TVs, mobile and web and on leading digital and pay-TV platforms in the US, UK, Ireland, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Australia. Horse & Country’s programming line-up includes live coverage from leading sporting competitions in all equestrian disciplines, as well as training and learning shows, documentaries, and entertainment.

Photo captions: The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. Photo courtesy of USPC.

USPC has a variety of disciplines for its members, as does H&C in its programming. Photo courtesy of USPC.

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September 29, 2021 Equine Symposium & Convention Hosted by USPC to Take Place January 26-30, 2022

September 29, 2021 (Lexington, KY) — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) invites equestrians of all ages and disciplines to attend the 2022 Equine Symposium & Convention Hosted by USPC and the Old Dominion Region, taking place January 26-30, 2022, in Norfolk, VA. The event will offer a blend of in-person, live stream, and on-demand opportunities with 30+ workshops and seminars, as well as trade fair shopping, networking, and more.

“We are excited about the new hybrid meeting format, allowing for in-person connection as well as online opportunities for greater participation, plus extended access and learning,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods.

Meeting attendees, both in-person and virtual, will have access to extensive educational and networking opportunities during the Equine Symposium & Convention, and for six months following. Workshop sessions cover topics ranging from equine health, care, horse sports, and leadership development for both youth and adults.

“Education and connection with horse enthusiasts and equine experts from across the country is what the Equine Symposium & Convention is all about. We invite everyone to come learn, enjoy and ‘Seas the Magic’ with us,” said USPC Activities & Events Director Erin Woodall.
Popular event features include the Anatomy Lab sponsored by Banixx, with support from Blue Ridge Equine Clinic and Old Dominion Equine Associates; the Research Project Fair sponsored by Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation; and the Pony Paddock supported by Kenzie and Cora Raniowski. Additional support for the event is being provided by Laura King and the Old Dominion Region of the USPC. Sponsorship and trade fair opportunities are currently available.

Registration for the 2022 Equine Symposium & Convention Hosted by USPC opens October 1, 2021. USPC group rates are available at the Marriott Norfolk Waterside, the host hotel for the event. For more information visit https://www.ponyclub.org/Events/AnnualMeeting/.

About The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC or Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. USPC’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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September 16, 2021 The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. Shows Support for Horse Week Event Brought to You by Boehringer Ingelheim

Boulder, Colorado—September 1st- Equine Network is thrilled to have the support of the United States Pony Clubs for the inaugural Horse Week.

Direct link to Press Release Here

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) is an educational organization which builds the foundations of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC started in 1954 to teach riding and the proper care of horses. It is based on The British Pony Club, which was created in 1929 as a junior branch of the Institute of the Horse. Since then, USPC has expanded to many countries around the world, with the main goal being to promote sportsmanship, stewardship and leadership through horsemanship.

USPC will have a feature documentary that showcases two riders and their success stories within the organization featured on Wednesday, October 6th at 8:00 p.m. EDT. Viewers can watch the program for free by visiting horseweek.tv.

Members of USPC will also be recognized as Rising Star Award Recipients presented by W.F. Young. These award recipients showcased hard work, talent, and dedication for their passion for horses. The winners are Michaela and Genevieve Munson, Sarah Ramseur, and Tyler Wiemers.

Just as USPC serves to positively impact and unite the equine community, Horse Week is connecting people and businesses within the equine industry. This fall, the inaugural Horse Week– an equine-centric digital festival unlike any other– will debut on horseweek.tv. With help from title sponsor Boehringer Ingelheim, riders and horse lovers of every level and discipline will enjoy high-quality educational and inspiring content.

This week-long viewing experience will include profiles of incredible equine athletes, equine storytelling that celebrates the horse-human bond, and heartwarming tales of horse heroics. Riders will get valuable takeaways and advice from world-class trainers.

“We have pulled Horse Week together to celebrate the horse across the entire industry in this new, exciting and innovative way,” said Melissa Kitchen, Vice President of Marketing Services at the Equine Network. “Having the support of well-known associations like the USPC helps us to further unify and connect the horse community through Horse Week.”

Horse Week can be streamed for free from October 3-9 on horseweek.tv. Tune in from the barn, office, or the comfort of your couch. The Equine Network is making it easy to watch from any smart device.

For more information about features, giveaways, and other exciting announcements:

Follow Equine Network on Facebook and Instagram
Follow along with your favorite Equine Network brands: Horse & Rider, Roping.com, EQUUS, Dressage Today, EventingTraining.com, Practical Horseman, BreakawayRoping.com.

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About Equine Network LLC. Equine Network’s membership services are designed to entertain, support and inform the equine community, and include unique tech-enabled services for horse owners, live equestrian events, innovative content and engaging digital experiences. For more information, visit www.equinenetwork.com.

For media/press inquiries, please contact Alex Cox, the Horse Week Program Manager (acox@equinenetwork.com).

About Pony Club — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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August 26, 2021 Pony Club Awards Members College Scholarships

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. has awarded a total of $6,500 in college scholarships to six Pony Club members for their outstanding achievements in academics, sportsmanship, and leadership through horsemanship. Recipients were selected through an application process administered by Pony Club, which involved essay submissions reviewed by a scholarship committee and chosen according to the requirements for each opportunity.

“These students are excellent examples of the valuable lifelong skills that Pony Club teaches, preparing them to succeed in the classroom, the workplace, and beyond,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “We are so proud of all that these members have achieved and know that they have bright futures ahead. As a nonprofit organization, we appreciate the generous donations that make these scholarships possible.”

The Pony Club Triple Crown Nutrition Scholarship is sponsored by Triple Crown Nutrition, Inc. to reward Pony Club members for excellence in academic pursuits and outstanding achievements in Pony Club, earning a Pony Club certification higher than a C-2 and an overall GPA of at least 3.0. This year’s recipient is Kara Echternacht, an H-B certified member from Miami Valley Pony Club. Echternacht is a second time scholarship recipient and is majoring in finance at The Ohio State University.

The Dorothy Renfro Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually for higher education to an active Pony Club member who exhibits the qualities that Dorothy Renfro valued most: leadership, horse management, and volunteering time and energy to beneficial activities. This year’s recipient of the Renfro Memorial Scholarship is Sydney Curtis, an H-B certified member of Pioneer Pony Club majoring in biotechnology at Utah State University.

The Stanley R. and Martha C. Helbert Scholarship is awarded annually to a Pony Club member pursuing a Liberal Arts degree in areas such as literature, music, theater, and visual arts. This year the Helbert Memorial Scholarship for Liberal and Visual Arts was awarded to Elizabeth Beazer, a C-1 member of Brazos Pony Club who plans to major in journalism and media at the University of Texas at Austin. 

The Pony Club Jubilee Scholarships are awarded to two Pony Club members for excellence in academic pursuits and outstanding achievements in Pony Club, with a certification of C-2 or higher. Recipient Anna Ferrin is an H-B member of Loudoun Hunt Pony Club who will be studying civil engineering at Messiah University. Recipient Erin Przybyl, an H-B member from Misty Morning Farm Pony Club Riding Center, plans to major in animal science/biochemistry at Iowa State University.

The Anson W. H. Taylor Memorial Scholarship is sponsored by Pony Club and the Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR) in memory of former Pony Club President and ELCR founder Anson Taylor. The scholarship is awarded to a current Pony Club member who has been actively committed to land conservation efforts. This year’s recipient is Madeline McDougal, an H-B member of Butte Valley Pony Club. McDougal is a second time scholarship recipient attending William Jessup University and majoring in biology.

Visit the Pony Club website to learn more about our college scholarship opportunities.

About Pony Club — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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August 2, 2021 USPC Festival 2021 a Success

The USPC Festival 2021, presented by SSG Riding Gloves, sponsored by State Line Tack, wrapped up after eight days of competition and education on July 26. The USPC Festival is a triennial event hosted at the picturesque Kentucky Horse Park. The first part of the week is dedicated to National Championships team competition while the second part of the week hosts clinics, demonstrations, and workshops offering education in all aspects of riding and horse care.


USPC Festival 2021 gathered over 650 competitors in eight discipline Championships, including Dressage, Eventing, Mounted Games, Polocrosse, Quiz, Show Jumping, Tetrathlon, Western Dressage. Invitational competitions in Gymkhana and Western Trail were also held for the first time.


The educational portion of Festival featured over 400 members learning from more than 60 equine experts consisting of respected professionals, USPC national examiners and Pony Club graduates including two-time dressage Olympian Lendon Gray and four-star event rider Alexa Ehlers, one of three USPC members to attain a triple “A” certification. Attendees of all ages and levels participated in mounted and unmounted sessions gaining equine knowledge and skills. A thrill for many was the Monday morning mock foxhunt lead by Iroquois Hunt Club.


“Festival is the ultimate Pony Club event, highlighting the teamwork, sportsmanship and horsemanship that are such an important part of Pony Club’s education,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “We were pleased to welcome close to 3,000 Pony Club members, their families, friends, volunteers and Pony Club leaders from across the country to enjoy competition, learning and fun at the USPC Festival 2021 presented by SSG Riding Gloves, sponsored by State Line Tack. Pony Club is grateful to the many volunteers and sponsors for their support of this event, which brings Pony Club members memories that last a lifetime.”


The USPC Festival 2021 was made possible thanks to the support of many generous sponsors including title sponsor SSG Riding Gloves and presenting sponsor State Line Tack, as well as contributing sponsors Absorbine, Albion College Equestrian, Appaloosa Horse Club, Arabian Horse Youth Association, Central Kentucky Ag Credit, the Dressage Foundation, Farnam, HandsOn Gloves, Kentucky Equine Research, Kentucky Performance Products, the Masters of Foxhounds Association of North America, Meade Tractor, Otterbein University, Precept Wealth Management, Park Equine Hospital, Tipperary Equestrian, Trafalgar Square Books, Transy Eventing, University of Louisville Equine Industry Program, and the Western & English Sales Association. Special thanks to USPC corporate sponsors Kerrits, Shapley’s, Triple Crown Nutrition, Wintec, and The Horse.


About Pony Club — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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July 19, 2021 EQUITANA USA Partners with United States Pony Clubs for 2021 Program

EQUITANA USA announced today it has partnered with the United States Pony Clubs, Inc., to bring interactive and educational content to the October event at the Kentucky Horse Park. The partnership pairs the leading international exhibition for the equine industry with education from the largest equine education organization in the world.

“EQUITANA USA is the premier event to attend for anyone in the equine industry, but also for families that love horses,” said Meghan Margewicz, the event’s director. “Pony Club brings an incredible amount of knowledge to the event to share with horse lovers of all age groups. We’re excited to have them as partners to provide exciting experiences for our attendees.”

Pony Club will be on-site at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky., during the event, scheduled for Friday, October 1 – Sunday, October 3, 2021. Pony Club will provide interactive fun for the entire family with an exciting display inside the venue’s covered arena. Attendees will learn the ins and outs of horses and ponies from an organization that boasts some 9,000 members in over 500 clubs and riding centers throughout the United States. Pony Club programming includes more than nine riding disciplines.

As part of the partnership, Pony Club members, along with their family and friends, will enjoy discounted ticket rates along with opportunities to participate in both riding and educational demonstrations during the event.

For the general public, tickets may be purchased online by visiting equitanausa.com and start at $27 (ages 13+), $10 (ages 6-12), and free for children five and under. In addition to entrance into EQUITANA USA all tickets include on-site parking, free United States Equestrian Federation fan membership and admission into the Kentucky Horse Park, which includes access to the International Museum of the Horse, American Saddlebred Museum and Hall of Champions.
For more information about EQUITANA USA, visit www.equitanausa.com or www.kyhorsepark.com.

About EQUITANA USA & RX: EQUITANA USA is a three-day celebration of the horse that invites equestrian professionals and enthusiasts of all riding levels and ages, disciplines and breeds to gather for education, entertainment, instruction and shopping. RX is the producer of EQUITANA USA and in the business of building businesses for individuals, communities and organizations. We elevate the power of face-to-face events by combining data and digital products to help customers learn about markets, source products and complete transactions at over 400 events in 22 countries across 43 industry sectors. RX is passionate about making a positive impact on society and is fully committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. www.rxglobal.com

About Pony Club — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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June 30, 2021 Pony Club International Alliance Virtual Dressage Show

Pony Club members are competing internationally in the virtual arena of the first-ever Pony Club International Alliance Dressage Show. The virtual dressage show has been put together with five classes consisting of: Training Level 14 and under, First Level 14-18 years, Second Level 18 and above, Pas de Deux (all ages), and Prix Caprilli (all ages).

This event is to further promote the international membership in an activity that includes all countries and members during this time of COVID-19. While many countries are back to more normal activities others are still in lockdown. The excitement for the inaugural PCIA Virtual Dressage Show is mounting among those entries and their countries.

With 141 entries from Australia, Canada, Hong Kong (China), Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States, the competition showcases Pony Club members worldwide.

Final results to be recorded and awarded on July 3, 2021.

About Pony Club International Alliance - The Pony Club International Alliance ( PCIA) is a combined governing body for international activities that grew out of The Pony Club, the founding Pony Club incorporated in the United Kingdom. The PCIA oversees all International Exchanges and is responsible for maintaining the rules and guidelines for hosting all International Exchanges. Countries in the Alliance include Australia, Canada, Hong Kong (China), Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom, and the United States.

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June 29, 2021 USPC Festival 2021 to be Held at the Kentucky Horse Park July 19-26, 2021

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. will be hosting USPC Festival 2021 Presented by SSG Riding Gloves, Sponsored by State Line Tack, July 19-26, 2021. Held at the world-renowned Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky, the USPC Festival will include Championships, plus mounted and unmounted education. Pony Club will welcome over 2,000 members, their families, friends, volunteers, and Pony Club leadership from across the country to Kentucky to enjoy competition, learning, and fun activities.

USPC Festival Championships is the culmination of training and hard work for members who competed at qualifying rallies and competitions throughout the year. Held annually, National Championships in Dressage, Eventing, Mounted Games, Polocrosse, Quiz, Show Jumping, Tetrathlon, and Western Dressage are showcased during the first part of the Festival week. USPC Eventing Championships are again recognized by USEF/USEA. This year’s competition also includes an American Polocrosse Association Sanctioned Tournament and invitational competitions in Pony Club’s two newest disciplines of Gymkhana and Western Trail.

The educational phase of Festival offers a unique learning experience, offering outstanding clinics, both mounted and unmounted, presented for members, parents, and volunteers. The clinics are conducted by Pony Club Graduates, Olympians, and equine experts in various disciplines. A popular non-riding portion of Festival offers a myriad of clinics and workshops teaching all things equine. Anyone can participate in these unmounted educational opportunities and registration is available on-site.

The cornerstone of the Pony Club foundation are education, safety, sportsmanship, stewardship, and leadership through horsemanship. Members learn teamwork, a sense of responsibility, safety, self-confidence, and leadership, through the riding and care of horses. The skills, habits, and values instilled through horsemanship are tested as members progress through the Pony Club Standards of Proficiencies and Certification levels.

The Opening Ceremonies will be held on Tuesday, July 20 at 6:30 PM EDT. All disciplines and competitors will be celebrated as USPC welcomes all the participating regions to Festival. Special guest speaker Governor Andy Beshear will give a welcoming address to those in attendance.
The deadline for Championships has already passed, but competitors may still register for the mounted education through July 6 at 12:00 PM EDT and unmounted education throughout the event. More information on USPC Festival 2021 can be found on the Pony Club website here: https://www.ponyclub.org/Events/Festival/Default.aspx

About Pony Club — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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May 27, 2021 USPC Launches the Pony Club Podcast

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., is proud to announce the recent release of the first episode of the Pony Club Podcast.

Episode 1 features an inspiring interview with USPC leaders, President Ben Duke, and Executive Director Teresa Woods. The two Pony Club leaders share their backgrounds and advice to succeed in life—from following your passions to the joy of lifelong learning—along with the many reasons they are proud to be part of Pony Club.

Future episodes will include the buzz on Pony Club events, activities, and more. Upcoming episodes will feature interviews with equestrians, industry professionals, Pony Club members, staff, and volunteers, as well as talented riders who got their start with the organization. Guest experts will also share insights and education with Pony Club members.

Listen and subscribe at https://ponyclubpodcast.buzzsprout.com/ or tune in on your favorite podcast players including Spotify and Stitcher, with more coming soon.

The podcast joins Discover USPC magazine, the official magazine of the United States Pony Clubs Inc., and the USPC Blog. To keep up with the latest, follow Pony Club on Instagram and Facebook.

About Pony Club — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that builds the foundation of teamwork and sportsmanship through riding, mounted sports, care of horses and ponies, while developing and enhancing leadership, confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community in its youth and adult members. USPC is proud to offer instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines through hundreds of clubs and centers across the United States. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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March 31, 2021 USPC’s Virtual Quiz Rally a Success

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) hosted its first ever Virtual Quiz Rally, held over four days of competition, February 27-28 and March 6-7, 2021. The online event attracted 894 competitors nationwide across all time zones from Maine to Alaska, ranging in age from 4 to 75.

“The entries and enthusiasm for this event exceeded all our expectations,” said USPC Activities & Events Director Erin Woodall. “A tremendous thank you goes out to all the competitors and volunteers who made the first USPC Virtual Quiz Rally possible.”

“We are very excited about the opportunities for virtual connection, learning and competition that the digital platform is providing for Pony Club’s membership, and appreciate the expanded access it offers to Pony Club’s education and programs,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods.

Quiz is one of 10 competitive disciplines in Pony Club. The question-and-answer competition challenges Pony Club members to learn horsemanship and horse care in a fun, interactive way. In addition, Quiz competition provides Pony Club members with opportunities to display and learn good sportsmanship, leadership and teamwork as they prepare, plan and cooperate with their teammates.

Due to the overwhelming success of the event, additional Virtual Quiz competition dates are being planned for later this spring to allow more members the opportunity to qualify for national Championships, to be held this summer at the USPC Festival 2021 presented by SSG Riding Gloves, sponsored by State Line Tack.

About Pony Club — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1954. The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., develops character, leadership, confidence, and a sense of community through a program that teaches the care of horses and ponies, riding, and mounted sports for an inter-generational audience with a focus on youth. Pony Club is one of the largest equine education organizations with thousands of members and hundreds of clubs and centers throughout the United States. USPC is proud to provide education to equestrians of all ages, with instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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February 5, 2021 Pony Club Awards Presented at the 2021 Meeting of the Corporation

Pony Club members, leaders and equine enthusiasts gathered online January 29 for award presentations at the 2021 Meeting of the Corporation, taking place during the 2021Virtual Equine Symposium & Convention hosted by USPC.

Four clubs received recognition for their dedication and longevity, marking milestone anniversaries with USPC. The Olympus Pony Club (formerly named Vashon Island Olympus) in the Northwest Region and St. Margaret’s Pony Club in the Maryland Region received 50-Year Club Milestone Awards, while Rose Lake Pony Club (Great Lakes Region) and Shaker Valley Pony Club (White Mountain Region) were honored with 25-Year Club Milestone Awards.

Two upper-level members received special recognition for achieving Pony Club’s top A-Level certification, with the presentation of awards sponsored by Stites & Harbison Attorneys. Members Anna Douglas (Lakeville Pony Club, New York/Upper Connecticut Region) and Kim Goto Miner (Santa Rosa Valley Pony Club, Camino Real Region) both earned their A certifications in 2020.

The Brookfield Land Conservation Award was presented to Groton Pony Club in the Central New England Region for their ongoing efforts to preserve and maintain the Hazel Grove Fairgrounds for equestrian use. This annual award is made possible through a generous donation from the van Nagell family of Lexington, Kentucky, and rewards the efforts of clubs, centers, regions and members who are active in and help promote land conservation and stewardship through various projects.

The Flash Teamwork Award went to Woodside Pony Club in the Middle California Region. Located in the Bay Area of Northern California, Woodside Pony Club members jumped into action when wildfires were burning and threatening thousands of acres in the surrounding area this past fall, preparing over 30 stalls and working together to care for evacuated horses. “The amazing teamwork around this was like nothing our club has ever seen before,” shared Karen Flores, who submitted the winning entry. “In such a scary and uneasy time, this club came together for the greater good of their community. They demonstrated not only their horse management skills learned in Pony Club, but also the core values of horsemanship, organized teamwork, respect and service that are the foundation of our organization.”

Winners of the USPC Research Project Fair sponsored by Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation were announced, judged by a panel of experts from veterinary, scientific and equine backgrounds and showcasing the work of Pony Club members of all ages and certification levels.

The highest scoring individual experimental project belonged to Janna S. (Deep Run Hunt Pony Club, Virginia Region) who presented her work, “Evaluation of Various Cryotherapy Methods.”  Charlotte H. (Hinkson Valley Pony Club, Midwest Region) earned the top score in the Individual Literature Review Category with her project, “When Carrots are Painful: EOTRH Syndrome.” The top-ranked group literature review project was “Ow! My Metacarpophalangeal Joint!” submitted by “The Three Musketeers” from the Midwest Region: Michaela F. (Mill Creek Pony Club); Alaina M. (Hinkson Valley Pony Club); and Lillian K. (Mill Creek Pony Club).

The meeting concluded by celebrating the recipients of the USPC Founders Awards for 2020, recognizing longtime volunteers Lynn du Celliee Muller and Cindy Healy for their dedicated service to Pony Club.

“I am grateful to have found Pony Club for my children, and as it turns out, for myself as well,” shared du Celliee Muller, noting the many friendships and deep connection to the Pony Club community she has enjoyed through her years in the organization. Healy, who has volunteered with numerous youth and community organizations in the course of raising five children, cited Pony Club as the foremost in developing character, leadership, confidence and a sense of community. “It’s been a privilege to give back to an organization that gives us so much. Pony Club is more than an organization; it’s a family, and I love my Pony Club family.”

About Pony Club — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1954. The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., develops character, leadership, confidence, and a sense of community through a program that teaches the care of horses and ponies, riding, and mounted sports for an inter-generational audience with a focus on youth. Pony Club is one of the largest equine education organizations with thousands of members and hundreds of clubs and centers throughout the United States. USPC is proud to provide education to equestrians of all ages, with instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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February 4, 2021 2021 Virtual Equine Symposium & Convention hosted by USPC a Success

Pony Club members, leaders and equine enthusiasts connected online January 27-30 for the 2021 Virtual Equine Symposium & Convention, hosted by the United States Pony Clubs, Inc. More than 500 attendees from seven time zones logged in during the event for a blend of live and on-demand educational opportunities, with over 75 workshops, live presentations, networking sessions and interactive learning experiences on a variety of equine topics. As an added benefit, meeting attendees will enjoy access to all content on the digital event platform for the next six months.

Based on attendee feedback and requests, registration will reopen from February 8-28 for anyone who missed the event but would like to access recordings of the live and on-demand sessions.

Representatives from 41 United States Pony Club Regions plus attendees from international Pony Club organizations participated in the event, working to expand Pony Club programming for current and future members. In addition to educational workshops, attendees enjoyed a variety of online activities, from viewing research project fair entries and exploring the anatomy lab to shopping the virtual trade fair and exhibit hall. Pony Club members got advice to prepare for horse management at certifications and rallies, and workshop tracks focused on leadership, instruction, veterinary care, and riding disciplines.

The convention welcomed 14 delegates to the 2021 National Youth Congress as well as honoring the inductees into this year’s Academy of Achievement: Royce L. Evans-Mason, Emily Harvey, and Sara Lieser.

Many Pony Club awards were announced at the Friday evening Meeting of the Corporation. The Olympus Pony Club (formerly named Vashon Island Olympus) in the Northwest Region and St. Margaret’s Pony Club in the Maryland Region received 50-Year Club Milestone Awards, while Rose Lake Pony Club (Great Lakes Region) and Shaker Valley Pony Club (White Mountain Region) were honored with 25-Year Club Milestone Awards. Upper Level members received special recognition for achieving Pony Club’s highest certification, with members Anna Douglas (Lakeville Pony Club, New York/Upper Connecticut Region) and Kim Goto Miner (Santa Rosa Valley Pony Club, Camino Real Region) earning their A Certifications. The Brookfield Land Conservation Award was presented to Groton Pony Club in the Central New England Region, while the Flash Teamwork Award went to Woodside Pony Club in the Middle California Region. Winners of the USPC Research Project Fair sponsored by Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation were announced, and attendees celebrated the recipients of the USPC Founders Awards for 2020, recognizing longtime volunteers Lynn du Celliee Muller and Cindy Healy for their dedicated service to Pony Club.

The 2021 Equine Symposium & Convention was possible thanks to the support of our sponsors, including the Arabian Horse Youth Association, Aurora Pharmaceutical, Flair Equine Nasal Strips, Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, Small Bytes, Specialty Program Insurors, and Stites & Harbison Attorneys, as well as USPC corporate sponsors Kerrits, Shapley’s, Triple Crown Nutrition, Wintec, and The Horse.

The 2022 Equine Symposium & Convention hosted by USPC will be held January 26-30, 2022, as Pony Club will “Seas the Magic” with the Old Dominion Region at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott in Norfolk, Virginia.

About Pony Club — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1954. The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., develops character, leadership, confidence, and a sense of community through a program that teaches the care of horses and ponies, riding, and mounted sports for an inter-generational audience with a focus on youth. Pony Club is one of the largest equine education organizations with thousands of members and hundreds of clubs and centers throughout the United States. USPC is proud to provide education to equestrians of all ages, with instruction and competitive opportunities in more than 10 different disciplines. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and leaders in a variety of fields, have roots in Pony Club.

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January 14, 2021 Pony Club Invites You to Join Us Online for the 2021 Virtual Equine Symposium & Convention

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., (USPC) invites equestrians of all ages and disciplines to attend the 2021 Virtual Equine Symposium and Convention Hosted by USPC, to be held online January 27- 30, 2021. The event offers educational opportunities with 50-plus workshops and seminars, along with networking, an interactive trade fair and more.

The virtual event will feature a mix of live and on-demand workshops for a convenient and fully customizable experience, with the added value of continued access to the information for six months after the event.

Workshop topics include risk management in an equine program, deworming, hoof care, grooming and more, plus competition and rider fitness tips, as well as leadership training seminars.

The popular Anatomy Lab will also be returning in a virtual format, featuring a head-to-hoof equine anatomy lesson with veterinary experts highlighting a selection of wet and dry specimens.

Trade fair shopping, awards, and the Research Project Fair entries presented by the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation round out a fun and educational experience.

Event sponsors include: Arabian Horse Youth Association, Aurora Pharmaceuticals, Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, Small Bytes LLC, Specialty Program Insurors, and Stites & Harbison; as well as USPC corporate sponsors: Kerrits, Shapley’s Grooming Products, Triple Crown Nutrition, Wintec, and The Horse.

Visit http://www.ponyclub.org/events/annualmeeting for registration information, schedules and a complete list of seminar topics.

About Pony Club — The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1954. Pony Club is the largest equine education organization in the world, with more than 10,000 members in the US, and over 500 clubs and riding centers nationwide. USPC is proud to provide education to youth and equestrians of all ages, with instruction and competitive opportunities in more than nine English and Western riding disciplines. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and government leaders, have roots in Pony Club.

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November 4, 2020 Pony Club Announces Dates for the 2021 Virtual Equine Symposium & Convention Hosted by USPC

The United States Pony Clubs (USPC) announces the 2021 Virtual Equine Symposium & Convention Hosted by USPC, to be held online January 27 - 30, 2021. Registration is now open for the event. This unique virtual experience offers a wide array of online educational opportunities for equestrians of all ages, and disciplines, with a mix of live and on-demand presentations.

“We are very excited about the new opportunities that going virtual brings to our Equine Symposium & Convention this year,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “The online format expands access to more attendees, as well as providing lasting value with extended availability of workshops after the event. We invite all horse lovers to join in on the fun and education, get to know Pony Club, and be part of this experience.”

Pony Club’s 2021 Virtual Equine Symposium & Convention lineup will spotlight leadership training and educational workshops on a variety of topics including horse health, nutrition, horsemanship, tack and equipment, various riding disciplines, and more. The popular equine anatomy lab will transition to an online virtual format, and the USPC Research Project Fair will also be included in the event. A trade fair will also be featured with special offers and unique online shopping opportunities.

Event sponsors include Specialty Program Insurors and Small Bytes, LLC, as well as USPC corporate sponsors Kerrits, TheHorse.com, Shapley’s Grooming Products, Triple Crown Nutrition, and Wintec. Additional sponsorship opportunities and virtual trade fair booths are still available for the event.

Visit www.ponyclub.org/events/annualmeeting for registration information, schedules, and a complete list of seminar topics.

About Pony Club - The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1954. Pony Club is the largest equine education organization in the world, with more than 10,000 members in the US, and over 500 clubs and riding centers nationwide. USPC is proud to provide education to youth and equestrians of all ages, with instruction and competitive opportunities in more than nine English and Western riding disciplines. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals, and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and government leaders, have roots in Pony Club.

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September 28, 2020 Pony Club Pivots to Online Format for 2021 Equine Symposium & Convention

The 2021 Equine Symposium & Convention, hosted by USPC, originally scheduled for January 28-31 in St. Louis, MO., will take place instead as a virtual event. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the potential safety risks to USPC members, leaders, volunteers, and staff attending necessitated the move.
The exact dates for January’s Virtual Equine Symposium & Convention, along with the schedule of sessions and events will be announced in November. The virtual event will offer a blend of live and on-demand educational opportunities, ensuring participants can conveniently attend based on their personal schedules.

The newly envisioned Virtual Equine Symposium & Convention, hosted by USPC, will include many of the popular elements which have brought equine enthusiasts together for years: leadership training, equine education, and camaraderie and connection to equine enthusiasts from around the country.

Registration for the USPC Virtual Equine Symposium & Convention will open in November and offer affordable pricing structures in hopes of making online education available to a broader audience than in-person events offer. Now members, leaders, and friends and family will not need to travel to have Pony Club education at their fingertips.

About Pony Club – The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1954. Pony Club is the largest equine education organization in the world, with more than 10,000 members in the US, and over 500 clubs and riding centers nationwide. USPC is proud to provide education to youth and equestrians of all ages, with instruction and competitive opportunities in more than nine English and Western riding disciplines. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and government leaders, have roots in Pony Club.

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August 25, 2020 Pony Club Offers Teaching Resources to Instructors and Educators for Barn, Classroom and Online Use

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. has been teaching riding and horse care since 1954, and during recent years has expanded to offer more learning and membership opportunities than ever before. The Professional Membership option is available to any equestrian instructor, professor, teacher or educator who is interested in ready-to-teach educational materials for their students and clientele.

“We know our traditional Pony Club and Riding Center models don’t always fit the needs of those who are interested in accessing the many educational resources available through Pony Club,” said Karol Wilson, USPC Director of Member Services and Regional Administration. “Our Professional Membership option is a great way to make teaching easier and customize the educational package that is best for you and your students, with complete course curriculum for the classroom or the barn.”

Now more than ever, there is a demand for educational opportunities that can be tailored to different learning situations. A USPC Professional Membership offers flexible solutions for equine education with or without access to horses. Lesson plans can be modified to teach students at every skill level, with organized, easy-to-understand lesson plans.

A USPC Professional Membership includes a variety of Pony Club instructional resources: an online profile, organized lesson plans, the Pony Club IQ (an interactive, online informational tool), bi-weekly E-News, and educational webinars. In addition, Professional Members may purchase educational packages providing access to comprehensive materials to help teach basic horse care and riding skills. Packages include Achievement Badge guides and student workbooks, introductory level certification materials and complementary e-membership for students, and teaching resources for classroom use. Pricing and additional details can be found here.

Please visit the Pony Club website for more information or to join today.

About Pony Club – The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1954. Pony Club is the largest equine education organization in the world, with more than 10,000 members in the US, and over 500 clubs and riding centers nationwide. USPC is proud to provide education to youth and equestrians of all ages, with instruction and competitive opportunities in more than nine English and Western riding disciplines. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and government leaders, have roots in Pony Club.

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August 20, 2020 2020 Live Oak Hounds USPC Foxhunting Challenge Award

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. is pleased to announce the results of the annual Live Oak Hounds USPC Foxhunting Challenge. The Live Oak Challenge is designed to encourage Pony Club members to try the sport, and to reward members who hunt on a regular basis for mentoring the newcomers. For their achievements, cash prizes were awarded to the top participating Pony Clubs. This award is made possible through the generous support of Mr. and Mrs. C. Martin Wood III, Joint Masters of the Live Oak Hounds in Monticello, Florida, and Past Presidents of the Masters of Foxhounds Association of America (MFHA).

“Marty and I have so enjoyed being able to sponsor the Live Oak Hounds Foxhunting Challenge Awards for the last 14 years,” said Daphne Flowers Wood, Joint Master, Live Oak Hounds. “We are delighted that as a result, hundreds of children have gotten out hunting for the first time, to discover the bliss, freedom and camaraderie of following a pack of foxhounds. Foxhunting is a marvelous sport enjoyed by people from 8 to 80 years old.”

A total of seven Pony Clubs competed this year, accounting for more than 420 days in the hunt fields. Thanks to the following hunts for their hospitality in welcoming Pony Club members throughout the hunt season: Cedar Knob Hounds (TN), De La Brooke Foxhounds (MD), Live Oak Hounds (FL), Marlborough Hunt (MD), Old Dominion Hounds (VA), Red Rock Hounds (NV), and Rose Tree-Blue Mountain Hunt (PA).

Congratulations to the 2020 Challenge winners:

1st Place: De La Brooke Pony Club (hunting with De La Brooke Foxhounds)
2nd Place: St. Margaret’s Pony Club (hunting with the Marlborough Hunt)
3rd Place: Ochlockonee River Pony Club (hunting with Live Oak Hounds)
4th Place: Blue Mountain Pony Club (hunting with Rose Tree-Blue Mountain Hunt)
5th Place: Old Dominion Hounds Pony Club (hunting with Old Dominion Hounds)
6th Place: Cedar Knob Pony Club (hunting with Cedar Knob Hounds)
7th Place: Portneuf Valley Pony Club (hunting with Red Rock Hounds)

USPC was founded in 1954 by a group of avid foxhunters. A knowledgeable rider on a happy pony (or horse) is the goal of Pony Club, and the hunt field is a great place to find many of these pairs. Pony Club offers several opportunities for members to explore Foxhunting as a group or individually through club or center activities. Visit ponyclub.org for more information and to get involved.

About MFHA – Founded in 1907, the Masters of Foxhounds Association of America (MFHA) works to promote and preserve the sport of foxhunting. The organization serves as a governing body responsible for establishing and maintaining standards of conduct; managing the Foxhound Stud Book; recording countries and boundaries for organized hunting establishments, and recognizing organized hunts.

About Pony Club – The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1954. Pony Club is the largest equine education organization in the world, with more than 10,000 members in the US, and over 500 clubs and riding centers nationwide. USPC is proud to provide education to youth and equestrians of all ages, with instruction and competitive opportunities in more than nine English and Western riding disciplines. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and government leaders, have roots in Pony Club.

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August 3, 2020 Pony Club Awards Members College Scholarships

Six exceptional Pony Club members were awarded college scholarships through The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. for outstanding achievements in academics, sportsmanship, and leadership through horsemanship. A total of $6,500 was awarded, with recipients selected based on essay applications reviewed by a scholarship committee and administered by Pony Club according to the requirements for each opportunity.

“These students are excellent examples of all that the Pony Club experience offers in developing valuable lifelong skills that will serve them well in the classroom, the workplace, and beyond,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “We are so proud of all that these members have achieved, and as a nonprofit organization, we appreciate the generous donations that make these scholarships possible.”

The Pony Club Triple Crown Nutrition Scholarship is sponsored by Triple Crown Nutrition, Inc. to reward Pony Club members for excellence in academic pursuits and outstanding achievements in Pony Club, earning a Pony Club certification higher than a C-2 and an overall GPA of at least 3.0. This year’s recipient is Elizabeth Larson, an H member of Patton Valley Pony Club from Bend, OR. Larson is currently studying chemistry and studio art at Willamette University.

The Dorothy Renfro Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually for higher education to an active Pony Club member who exhibits the qualities that Dorothy Renfro valued most: leadership, horse management, and volunteering time and energy to beneficial activities. This year’s recipient of the Renfro Memorial Scholarship is Virginia Klecker, a C+ member of Run O’ the Mill Pony Club from Jefferson, WI. She plans to pursue studies in nursing and pre-med.

The Stanley R. and Martha C. Helbert Scholarship is awarded annually to a Pony Club member pursuing a Liberal Arts degree in areas such as literature, music, theater, and visual arts. Second-time recipient Mckenna Miller, C-2 member of Keeneland Pony Club from Fort Thomas, KY, is majoring in digital media and design at the University of Kentucky.

The Pony Club Jubilee Scholarships are awarded to two Pony Club members for excellence in academic pursuits and outstanding achievements in Pony Club, with a certification of C-2 or higher. Recipient Tanner Kooistra, a C-3 member of French Creek Pony Club from Carnation, WA, is studying data science/entrepreneurship at the University of Washington. Recipient Madeline McDougal, an H-B member of Butte Valley Pony Club from Chico, CA, will be majoring in kinesiology at William Jessup University.

The Anson W. H. Taylor Memorial Scholarship is sponsored by Pony Club and the Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR) in memory of former Pony Club President and ELCR founder Anson Taylor. The scholarship is awarded to a current Pony Club member who has been actively committed to land conservation efforts. This year’s recipient is Kara Echternacht of West Chester, Ohio. A C-3 member of the Miami Valley Pony Club, Echternacht plans to major in data analytics.

Visit the Pony Club website to learn more about our college scholarship opportunities.

About Pony Club – The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (Pony Club) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1954. Pony Club is the largest equine education organization in the world, with more than 10,000 members in the US, and over 500 clubs and riding centers nationwide. USPC is proud to provide education to youth and equestrians of all ages, with instruction and competitive opportunities in more than nine English and Western riding disciplines. Pony Club’s educational standards continue to be instrumental in curriculum development for schools, universities, equestrian professionals and organizations across the United States. Many of the nation’s top equestrians, including Olympic team members, as well as successful business professionals and government leaders, have roots in Pony Club.

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