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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

(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. 

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

###

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

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.

PDF of Press Release

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. is pleased to announce support from The Dressage Foundation through two grants, including the Trip Harting Fund for Pony Club Members and Graduates, and The Dancing Horse Fund.

Ashley Dimmette of Raleigh, NC, has been awarded a $500 grant from The Dressage Foundation’s Trip Harting Fund, established for current or past members of Pony Club. Ashley was a member of Cardinal II Pony Club based out of Union County, NC, for nine years, before joining Yadkin Valley Hounds Pony Club during college, and earning her B Certification in Eventing. She credits Pony Club with teaching her perseverance, safety, sportsmanship, and to always put the needs of her horse first. Ashley plans to use the grant to train with JJ Tate in Landrum, South Carolina.

"I am thrilled and honored to receive the Trip Harting Fund grant from The Dressage Foundation,” shared Ashley. “As a young professional, it can be difficult to find the time and resources to [participate in] clinics with top professionals like JJ, and I am beyond excited to receive this opportunity!”
The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. was also awarded a $650 grant from The Dressage Foundation’s Dancing Horse Fund to support the purchase of a sound system for musical freestyles at the upcoming USPC Festival presented by SSG Riding Gloves. The objectives of the Dancing Horse Fund are to promote and advance the art of riding to music, and encourage participation in musical freestyles at all levels.

“We are grateful for the support from The Dressage Foundation to invest in a quality sound system that will provide musical freestyle participants at USPC Festival with an improved experience for years to come,” said USPC Activities and Events Director Erin Woodall. USPC Festival is a triennial event held at the Kentucky Horse Park, in Lexington, KY. The event combines championships competition with educational workshops and clinics for a weeklong celebration.

About the Dressage Foundation – The Dressage Foundation is a 501(c)(3), non-profit, tax-exempt, donor-driven organization that is dedicated to educating, supporting, and advancing the sport of dressage. The organization solicits contributions, appropriately allocates the donations, and awards grants to dressage riders of all ages and levels, judges, instructors, breeders, high performance teams, nonprofit equestrian organizations, and more.

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.

After careful consideration of the current circumstances and information available, The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., has made the decision to postpone USPC Festival 2020 Presented by SSG Riding Gloves to July 19-26, 2021. The triennial event was originally scheduled for July 13-20, 2020, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky.

Festival has been a beloved tradition for Pony Club since 1983. Held at the legendary Kentucky Horse Park, the weeklong event combines the best of Pony Club’s educational opportunities with the excitement of Championships competition in a team format. However, protecting the safety and well-being of Pony Club members, volunteers, staff, supporters, leadership, and the local community must take precedence at this time.

“Pony Club is a resilient, proactive and solution-oriented organization. For these reasons, we are committed to highlighting the positive during these unprecedented times,” said USPC President Ben Duke. “Together we will work to create new opportunities for learning, fun, camaraderie, and connection while we look forward to being safely back in action.”

Pony Club is appreciative of all that our organizers, volunteers, leaders, supporters, and members have invested in planning for Festival. Preparations are already underway to ensure that USPC Festival Presented by SSG Riding Gloves will be a memorable celebration for all in 2021.

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.

PDF of Press Release

The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., is pleased to offer online education through a special Lunch ’N Learn series launched in late March. Activities and content currently publish every weekday between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Eastern time on the USPC Facebook page. All are welcome to participate.

“Learning with Pony Club is one thing that can keep us connected during this time when we are apart,” said Connie Jehlik, USPC Instruction Services Director. “Our program has so many educational resources, and we wanted to make those easily available. We created the Lunch ’N Learn series to keep our members engaged through fun, interactive education and activities.”

Online content created for the Lunch ’N Learn series includes videos, live Q&A sessions with experts, quizzes, scavenger hunts and more, plus tips, tools and resources for equestrians of all levels.

“While the global pandemic we are experiencing continues to affect all of our daily lives, Pony Club remains committed to delivering education to our members and the entire equine community,” said USPC Executive Director Teresa Woods. “Especially when social distancing may prevent some equestrians from riding or seeing their horses, these virtual horsemanship lessons are a way that we can help.”

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.

PDF of Press Release