‘The best days of our lives’: We compare 1950s Pony Club with today *H&H Plus*
Mobile phones, tack and jods may have reshaped our riding culture, but is a Pony Clubber’s lifestyle so very different? Andrea Oakes compares the 1950s with today
The Pony Club is an international voluntary youth organisation for young riders, up to the age of 25, which encourages them to learn to ride and care for their ponies, while promoting high standards of sportsmanship, citizenship and loyalty. The vast majority of Britain’s elite riders started their competition careers in The Pony Club, representing their local branch in area, regional and national competitions.
Founded in England in 1929, The Pony Club became a charity on 1 January 1997. The Pony Club exists in no fewer than 27 countries with a worldwide membership exceeding 110,000. It has around 330 branches and 400 centres in the UK.
Branches host riding and management rallies (lessons), which are the bedrock of The Pony Club system, alongside popular camps and competitions. Pony Club Centres provide opportunities for those without their own pony to become Pony Club members and learn about horse care and riding.