Parent FAQ
How does my child join Pony Club?
Individuals join USPC by becoming a member of the local Pony Club or Riding Center. A club is a group of parents and other adult volunteers who have gotten together to administer the Pony Club program in their area. Typically, a member needs to have his or her own mount, or access to a mount in order to join a club and get the most out of the program. A center is an equestrian facility that has been recognized by USPC to administer the Pony Club program to its clients and others in the area. Typically a center is able to provide a pony or horse for their members. If you are Joining Pony Club at Thomas School you our joining a center.
How much does it cost to join Pony Club?
When an individual joins Pony Club, they are a member of the National Organization, USPC, a region (a geographic collection of clubs and centers), and a local club or center. Membership runs yearly January 1 through December 31.
Yearly Dues
National Dues: $155
Regional Dues: $45
Local Dues: $200
Do I have to own a horse?
Ownership of a horse or pony is not required for membership, but arrangements for a suitable mount must be made on an individual basis. Thomas School Horses will be available for all center members at all Pony Club Events (Stallions are unsuitable mounts for Pony Club activities. Horses and Ponies must be at least five years of age for use). Please note: The first year is considered to be January 1 following the date of foaling.
What if I don't have a pony, what if I have a horse?
It doesn't matter, as long as the mount is suitable according to the Pony Club policy. The word "pony" in Pony Club comes from the British Pony Club and was originally used to refer to the size of the rider, not the size of the horse.
How often does the club/center have meetings?
This varies between each club or center. Many clubs/centers have on mounted meeting and one unmounted meeting each month. Some clubs/centers meet weekly. During unmounted meetings members learn about feeding, shoeing, veterinary care, and other areas of horse management. Under adult supervision, the more experienced Pony Club members instruct and assist the more inexperienced members.
Are there any age restrictions to become a member?
There is no national minimum or maximum age to join Pony Club. Some clubs and centers have set a minimum age due to resources available to them. Members are considered youth members until they turn 18. Adult members are any individual aged 18 and above, and are subject to Member and Volunteer Protection policy requirements such as favorable background checks and SafeSport™ trained course completion.
What if I don't have my own horse trailer?
Thomas School can provide trailering to off property events.
What kind of clothes do I need to buy?
USPC and Thomas School are committed to safety. It is a membership requirement that Pony Club members wear a riding helmet meeting the ASTM/SEI standard when attending mounted meetings. Parents should be prepared to purchase this item and the minimum basic riding equipment such as jodphurs, paddock boots, etc. for more information please contact Thomas School.
What opportunities are available to members?
Along with learning riding and horse care skills at local meetings, there are a variety of other educational and competitive opportunities in Pony Club for its members. Check out this chart of opportunity that lists various opportunities and information on any age and/or certification level requirements for participation.
Do I need to/can I take riding lessons in addition to Pony Club?
Most members take riding lessons in addition to Pony Club. The Pony Club program is designed to be a supplement to any other formal individual training a member is receiving.
Do parents need to "know" horses?
No, they don't need to "know" horses, but they will be involved. Parents play an important role in the Centers and their child's pony club experience. The Thomas School Centers is administered by our Riding staff, but still relies on parents to assist in the program. Parents should ask about the expectations of them and their Child prior to joining the center.
Contact us for more information – 1(833) Ride-TSH or [email protected]
Source Ponyclub.org