UNITED STATES PONY CLUB
Good Hope is a part of the USPC Old Dominion Virginia Region
What is the United States Pony Club?
Good Hope Equestrian & Regenerative Farm, Inc. (GHERF), takes great pride in its role as a Pony Club Riding Center. As an internationally recognized organization, the United States Pony Clubs (USPC) is committed to providing equestrian education to individuals of all ages. By becoming a member of a center within their region, participants gain access to riding lessons, comprehensive instruction in horse management, and the exciting opportunity to participate in regional team competitions known as “rallies.”
We at Good Hope Equestrian & Regenerative Farm, Inc., are truly honored to be a USPC Riding Center. Our program serves as a gateway for individuals to immerse themselves in the world of equestrian education and nurture their passion for horses. We are dedicated to offering a supportive and enriching environment where members can develop their equestrian skills and forge lasting connections within the equestrian community.
Join us at Good Hope Equestrian & Regenerative Farm, Inc., and embark on an incredible journey of learning, growth, and equestrian excellence within the esteemed United States Pony Clubs.
The Pony Club mission to, “develop character, leadership, confidence and a sense of community in youth through a program that teaches the care of horses and ponies, riding and mounted sports.” Core values include:
- Horsemanship with respect to healthcare, nutrition, stable management, handling and riding a mount safely, correctly and with confidence.
- Organized teamwork including cooperation, communication, responsibility, leadership, mentoring, teaching and fostering a supportive yet competitive environment.
- Respect for the horse and self through horsemanship; for land through land conservation; and for others through service and teamwork.
- Service by providing an opportunity for members, parents, and others to support the Pony Club program locally, regionally and nationally through volunteerism.
- Education at an individual pace to achieve personal goals and expand knowledge through teaching others.
The Pony Club Certifications system serves as the foundation of the program, offering a progressive framework for riders to advance their skills and knowledge. As riders progress through the levels, the requirements for equine knowledge and riding proficiency become more comprehensive. The Certifications, ranging from D-1 to A, represent different levels of achievement.
The program ensures that riders of all levels, including beginners, can participate and benefit from the Pony Club experience. Even at the introductory “D-1” level, riders are encouraged to join and embark on their equestrian journey. At the pinnacle of the Certifications stands the internationally recognized “A” level, symbolizing the highest level of expertise in horsemanship and riding.
While Pony Club has traditionally focused on Eventing, the organization has expanded its scope in recent years to include hunters/show jumping and dressage. At GHERF, our primary emphasis within the Pony Club program lies in show jumping and the incorporation of dressage techniques to enhance the horse-rider partnership and achieve better balance.
The GHERF Pony Club program welcomes individuals with a passion for English riding, horsemanship, and equine knowledge. Whether you have an interest in show jumping, dressage, or simply want to deepen your understanding of horses, our program offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Join us at GHERF to pursue your equestrian aspirations and cultivate a lifelong love for horses.
Lifelong Skills
Pony Club offers more than just horse-related education. It serves as a platform for young members to develop essential life skills such as sportsmanship, teamwork, and leadership. Regardless of age, all members have opportunities to engage in International Exchanges, Leadership Congresses, and Championships, fostering personal growth and cultural exchange.
Young members also benefit from access to collegiate scholarships and resume-building opportunities. These resources can greatly support their educational and professional aspirations. It is worth noting that Pony Club is not limited to children and youth. Adults over the age of 18 who join for the first time are referred to as “Horsemasters” and are welcome to participate in lessons, ratings, and rallies just like any other member. For more detailed information, please refer to the Horsemasters page.
Pony Club is an inclusive organization that values the development of individuals both as equestrians and as well-rounded individuals. It provides a supportive and enriching environment for members of all ages to learn, grow, and thrive.
We are proud to announce that Good Hope Equestrian & Regenerative Farm, Inc. has been designated as a United States Pony Club Riding Center. This esteemed recognition highlights our commitment to excellence in equestrian education and horsemanship.
As a United States Pony Club Riding Center, we provide aspiring riders with the opportunity to engage in a comprehensive equestrian program that adheres to the Pony Club standards of proficiencies. This internationally-recognized curriculum encompasses both mounted and unmounted horsemanship, ensuring a well-rounded education for our motivated riders.
Through our Riding Center, riders gain access to a structured and progressive learning environment. Our dedicated instructors follow the Pony Club curriculum, which covers a wide range of horsemanship topics and skills. This includes both practical aspects such as horse care, grooming, and stable management, as well as mounted disciplines like dressage, show jumping, eventing, and more.
By participating in our United States Pony Club Riding Center program, riders can expect to receive comprehensive instruction and guidance from our knowledgeable staff. We aim to foster a deep understanding and appreciation for horsemanship, while also instilling values such as sportsmanship, teamwork, and responsibility.
Good Hope Equestrian & Regenerative Farm, Inc (GHERF) is honored to be a part of the United States Pony Club network and to offer our riders access to this esteemed organization. Good Hope Equestrian & Regenerative Farm, Inc. provides a top-quality equestrian experience that nurtures the growth and development of riders at all levels.
Join us at our Riding Center and embark on a rewarding journey of equestrian education, skill-building, and personal growth. We look forward to welcoming you to our equestrian community
How do I become a part of Pony Club?
There are three tiers of organization to Pony Club: National, Regional, and the Club level.
- To join the USPC, you will need to complete the National
- To participate with the Region (Virginia Region Pony Clubs), please complete this form. This is a required form.
- Participation on the Clublevel will come when you sign up for Pony Club lessons at the farm.
Email Center Administrator for more information: gherf2021@gmail.com
UNITED STATES PONY CLUB PROGRAM RATES
| USPC Membership Dues | $ 155.00 annual dues |
| USPC Virginia Region Pony Club Dues | $35.00 annual dues |
| Traditional Pony Club Youth Program This includes ten 2-hour mounted/horsemanship group lessons during each term. (ie: Fall, Spring & or summer) | $350.00 per term |
| Little Equestrians Program (ages 5 – 9) This includes ten 1.5-hour mounted/horsemanship group lessons during each term. (ie: Fall, Spring & or summer) This program dos does not need to pay for annual USPC related dues) | $300 per term |
| HorseMasters Annual Fee This includes ten 1.5-hour mounted group lessons during each term. (ie: Fall, Spring & or summer) | $350.00 per term |
Lessons will take place on weekday evenings, and ground schools on select Saturdays and Sundays.
OTHER FEES
| Community Clinics & Training Camps (Guest Clinicians) | Priced per event (see calendar for details) |
| Horse Use Fee per show/rally/clinic/offsite schooling | $40.00 per day |
| Coaching Fee for offsite show/rally/schooling (GHERF staff fee) | $40.00 per person |
What are the expectations of members and parents?
Pony Club is about community: the volunteering efforts of parents are crucial to the success of any Pony Club. Everything from transporting your young member to lessons, to acquiring source materials for studying for Certifications, to volunteering at rallies (team competitions). You will be amazed how much you can learn about this sport without even having to touch a horse!
We strongly encourage participation from all members in the form of the Adult Board and Junior Board. This is the way for your voice to be heard within the club and to be an integral part of the community. Please contact Margaret Bass at (305) 297-4729 to learn more about the junior and adult board positions available.
Do we have to have a horse?
No, you just need to have access to one! If you sign up for the Pony Club lessons, you will be able to participate in the lessons on a Good Hope school horse.
Lesson Schedule
Coming Soon…
PONY CLUB FORMAL YOUTH PROGRAM
The Formal Youth Program offers a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses both horse management instruction and mounted riding instruction. These monthly sessions align with the Pony Club standards of proficiency, catering to each certification level. While not mandatory, most members of the Formal Youth Program also participate in GHERF’s weekly lesson program, further enhancing their equestrian education.
Through the Pony Club certification system and sanctioned rallies, members gain access to high-quality instruction and the opportunity to explore various disciplines of their choice, including dressage, show jumping, eventing, and hunter seat equitation. Whether utilizing their own horses or our lesson horses, members have the flexibility to tailor their Pony Club experience to their individual preferences and goals. Progression through rallies and certifications can be pursued at a pace that suits each member’s aspirations.
Membership in both the U.S. Pony Club national and regional levels is required for participation in the Formal Youth Program, ensuring access to the full range of benefits and resources offered by Pony Club.
The Pony Club experience extends beyond equine skills and education. It also emphasizes personal growth, citizenship, and the development of life skills. Participants are encouraged to foster a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and leadership, promoting holistic development as individuals.
To learn more about the United States Pony Clubs, Inc. and obtain further information for parents, please refer to the Parent Information section available on the USPC website.
We invite you to join our Pony Club Formal Youth Program at GHERF and embark on an exciting journey of equestrian growth, camaraderie, and personal development.
Through the Pony Club certification system and sanctioned rallies, members gain access to high-quality instruction and the opportunity to explore various disciplines of their choice, including dressage, show jumping, eventing, and hunter seat equitation. Whether utilizing their own horses or our lesson horses, members have the flexibility to tailor their Pony Club experience to their individual preferences and goals. Progression through rallies and certifications can be pursued at a pace that suits each member’s aspirations.
Membership in both the U.S. Pony Club national and regional levels is required for participation in the Formal Youth Program, ensuring access to the full range of benefits and resources offered by Pony Club.
The Pony Club experience extends beyond equine skills and education. It also emphasizes personal growth, citizenship, and the development of life skills. Participants are encouraged to foster a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and leadership, promoting holistic development as individuals.
To learn more about the United States Pony Clubs, Inc. and obtain further information for parents, please refer to the Parent Information section available on the USPC website.
We invite you to join our Pony Club Formal Youth Program at GHERF and embark on an exciting journey of equestrian growth, camaraderie, and personal development.
LITTLE EQUESTRIANS
Introducing the Little Equestrians Program, specially designed for young equestrians between the ages of 5 and 9. This program serves as an introductory experience to horse care, horse management education, and group riding instruction, aligning with the foundational standards of Pony Club. Our primary focus at this stage is to provide age-appropriate games, skill-building activities, prioritizing safety and fun.
Participants in the Little Equestrians Program attend two sessions per month. Each session consists of a group riding lesson and hands-on horsemanship activities on the ground. This program acts as a pre-Pony Club initiative, promoting the values and curriculum of Pony Club while maintaining a less formal and intensive structure. Please note that U.S. Pony Club national and regional memberships are not required for participation in this program.
The Little Equestrians Program offers a group rate of $100.00 per month or $300.00 per quarter, providing an accessible and affordable option for young equestrians to embark on their equestrian journey in a supportive and engaging environment.
Join us in the Little Equestrians Program and let your young ones discover the joys of horsemanship, gain foundational skills, and foster a lifelong love for horses.
HORSEMASTERS PROGRAM
The Horsemasters program follows the same USPC Standards of Proficiency as the youth program. As a member of the Horsemasters program, you can engage in rallies, certifications, and various other Pony Club activities. Similar to Pony Club, Horsemasters receive education and evaluation in three key areas: Horse Management, On the Flat, and Over Fences. You can also choose from different discipline tracks, including dressage, show jumping, hunt seat, western, and eventing, tailoring the program to your specific interests.
Horsemasters have the chance to achieve certification at the D-1 through C-2 levels, which represent the beginner and intermediate stages. At present, national certifications at the A and B levels are not available within the program.
To maintain consistency, the USPC has closely aligned the certification requirements for Horsemasters with those of the regular Pony Club, with some minor differences. For example, while Horsemasters are not expected to perform flying dismounts like Pony Clubbers, D-2 level members. The Horsemasters program offers an exciting opportunity for adults to immerse themselves in Pony Club activities, improve their horsemanship skills, and contribute to the equestrian community. Whether you missed out on Pony Club as a child or simply have a desire to further develop your equine knowledge, the Horsemasters program is an excellent avenue for adult equestrians.
Join us in the Horsemasters program and unlock a world of equestrian education, camaraderie, and personal growth.
ATTIRE
To ensure the safety and well-being of our students, we have implemented certain guidelines regarding riding equipment at GHERF. Please take note of the following:
- Riding Helmets: For all mounted and unmounted portions of lessons, students are required to wear riding helmets. At GHERF, we can provide students with properly fitted riding helmets that meet the ASTM-SEI (American Society for Testing and Materials-Safety Equipment Institute) safety standards. If students prefer to use their own helmets, they must present them to a staff member for approval. The helmet should not be more than 5 years old and must bear the ASTM-SEI certified seal, ensuring its safety compliance.
- Safety Stirrups: All saddles at GHERF are equipped with breakaway safety stirrups. Students who choose to use stirrups are encouraged to wear riding boots or hard-soled shoes with a heel for added stability and safety.
- Loaner Boots and Breeches: GHERF understands that students may not have all the necessary riding attire. Therefore, we have a collection of boots and breeches available to lend out to students for a season, allowing them to fully participate in their riding activities.
By adhering to these equipment guidelines, we aim to prioritize the safety and comfort of our students. At GHERF, we strive to create a secure and enjoyable environment for everyone involved in our equestrian programs.
ENROLLMENT Process
To initiate the USPC enrollment process at GHERF, please follow these steps:
- Contact the office: Get in touch with our office by calling (305) 297-4729 or sending an email to gherf2021@gmail.com. Our staff will assist you in discussing space availability and determining the suitability of our programs for your needs.
- Schedule a farm visit: Arrange a farm visit to have a personal tour and engage in a detailed discussion regarding the program options available. This visit will allow you to familiarize yourself with our facilities, meet the instructors, and address any questions or concerns you may have.
- Submit required paperwork: Following the farm visit, we kindly request that you submit all necessary paperwork as soon as possible. Our staff will provide you with the specific documents required for enrollment. Timely completion of paperwork will help facilitate the enrollment process and ensure a smooth transition into our programs.
By following these steps, you will be well on your way to becoming a part of the vibrant equestrian community at GHERF. We look forward to welcoming you and providing an enriching experience for you or your child.
BEGIN ENROLLMENT
We kindly request your attention to the following important information. Should you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office for further assistance.
- Review and sign Facility Rules: It is imperative that you carefully review and sign the Facility Rules provided to you. These rules are designed to ensure the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of all individuals at our facility. Familiarizing yourself with these rules will help maintain a harmonious and secure environment for everyone.
- Submit the Required Documents: a. Equine Activity Release: We require all participants to complete and submit the Equine Activity Release form. This form acknowledges the potential risks associated with equestrian activities and signifies your understanding and acceptance of those risks. Your safety and well-being are of utmost importance to us, and this document enables us to prioritize your welfare while participating in our programs. b. Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment Form: In the event of a medical emergency, it is crucial that we have your explicit consent to seek and administer necessary medical treatment promptly. By completing and submitting the Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment form, you provide our staff with the authorization needed to act swiftly and in your best interest should the need arise.
We kindly ask that you submit the required documents as soon as possible. This ensures that we have the necessary information and permissions in place to provide you with a safe and enjoyable experience at our facility.
Thank you for your attention to these matters. Our office is available to address any questions or concerns you may have regarding the facility rules or required documentation. We look forward to welcoming you to our equestrian community at GHERF.