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LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY: Pony Club Riding Centers offer the regular programs of The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC) to equestrian facilities with an established riding lesson program. Currently, 33 Pony Club Riding Centers are active in 21 of the 43 Pony Club Regions nationwide. Approved facilities enter into an agreement with USPC to offer the Pony Club program and curriculum through their facility.

Inquiries for the Riding Center program have come through word of mouth and from instructors searching the Internet for “something more” to offer their clients. “Instructors and parents of children in lesson programs have been very excited to find out that the Pony Club program could be offered through a riding stable,” states Aileen Gordon, National Office Riding Center Liaison. “Before the Riding Center Program, these inquiries would be turned away because they did not fit the traditional club structure.”

Recognized Pony Club Riding Centers include not only the traditional lesson and show barns, but also facilities associated with boarding schools, colleges and one that is a NARHA center. “The Riding Center Program makes Pony Club available to children who would not have been able to participate previously,” observes Tom Adams, 1st Vice President and National Riding Center Coordinator. “Through the Riding Centers, we reach younger members who are beginning their equestrian experience and help them build their horse management and riding skill knowledge with Pony Club’s 50 years of experience. We are excited to partner with local stables to further USPC’s mission of producing well-rounded horsemen and women for the future.”

Pony Club Riding Center members range in age from 5 to 24. These members are offered the same Regional and National educational and competitive benefits available to the tradition member.

Equestrian facilities interested in participating in the Pony Club Riding Center Program may visit the USPC Web site, at www.ponyclub.org, under “Join” on the Home Page to find more information on the program, its development, and a general overview of how to become a recognized Riding Center. In addition, current recognized centers are listed, which interested families may contact to receive information about joining Pony Club.

There are approximately 12,000 members of USPC in over 600 clubs and centers throughout the country. Along with an emphasis on helping members learn to ride and care for horses, Pony Club promotes teamwork, a sense of responsibility, safety, good moral judgment and self-confidence.