On any given weekend across South Africa, in dusty arenas and shady paddocks, you’ll find young riders tacking up ponies with practiced hands, chatting over grooming kits, and cantering with purpose under the watchful eyes of instructors. It’s not just another riding lesson, it’s Pony Club. And for thousands of children and young adults aged 5 to 25, it’s a way of life.
This isn’t competitive showjumping or a private stables programme. This is something far broader and deeper. An equestrian education grounded in tradition, powered by community, and built on values that outlast rosettes and ribbons. This is the South African Pony Club.
A legacy that spans continents and generations
Founded in 1929 in the United Kingdom, the Pony Club has grown into the world’s largest youth equestrian organisation, with over 100,000 members in countries as far afield as Australia, Canada, Hong Kong and, of course, South Africa. Its mission has always remained the same: to educate young people in riding and horse care, to promote good sportsmanship, and to foster a lifelong love for equestrianism.
South Africa’s branches form a proud part of this international legacy. From the earliest clubs established decades ago, the local network has expanded into a vibrant tapestry of branches stretching across provinces, disciplines and cultures. And while each club brings its own personality, all are united by a shared commitment to the Pony Club ethos: learn well, ride better, respect the horse, and support each other.
For all riders, not just an elite few
One of the most defining features of the South African Pony Club is its inclusivity. You don’t need your own horse or fancy tack to join. Many branches offer non-riding memberships or access to school ponies, ensuring that children from all backgrounds can benefit from the programme.
“Pony Club is for every child with an interest in horses,” says Cecile Watt, National Chairperson of the South African Pony Club. “We welcome members from five years old all the way through to 25. Whether they want to ride professionally or simply enjoy the companionship of horses, there’s a space for them here.”
This open-door approach means the Pony Club is a feeder for all equestrians, though it certainly has its share of success stories, with many of South Africa’s equestrian elite having found their passion at Pony Club. It’s also a safe, supportive environment where children can grow in confidence, resilience and responsibility, with the horse as their guide.
A structured system for lifelong learning
Pony Club is not just about time in the saddle. It offers a world-class, structured education system that develops well-rounded horsemen and women. Members work through a series of Mini and Achievement Badges, covering everything from basic grooming and tack cleaning to map reading, first aid, stable management and environmental care.
“These badges are more than just tokens of progress,” Cecile explains. “They’re stepping stones — each one teaching a valuable skill that builds towards the bigger picture of responsible, knowledgeable horsemanship.”
Once members gain confidence and core skills, they begin the Efficiency Tests. A progressive series of practical and theoretical exams that start with the introductory E Test and lead all the way to the prestigious A Test. The A Test is an internationally recognised qualification, demanding a deep understanding of anatomy, riding, horse welfare and advanced stable management. Very few achieve it and those who do, wear it like a badge of honour throughout their careers. It also opens doors to equestrian careers around the world.
But at every level, from the tiniest Mini Badge to the gold-standard A, the emphasis remains on growth and learning rather than pressure and perfection.
More than learning – a way of life
Education is at the heart of Pony Club, but it’s far from the whole story. Rally days, pony camps, inter-branch competitions and badge workshops bring young riders together to learn, bond and celebrate their shared love of horses.
The club also fosters teamwork through events such as Mounted Games and the annual Interbranch Show, where riders compete across disciplines in an atmosphere of camaraderie and good sportsmanship. These events are often the highlight of the calendar, not because of the prizes on offer, but because of the friendships made, the laughter shared, and the sense of belonging that they nurture.
And for those with competitive ambitions, the opportunity to represent South Africa internationally is a powerful motivator. From the Virtual Tri Nations Dressage Challenge with Zimbabwe and Zambia to the Pony Club International Alliance (PCIA) Dressage involving countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the UK, members have the chance to compete and succeed on the world stage.
“International travel and exchanges are also part of the journey. South African clubs have recently had the chance to host teams from Zimbabwe and Zambia, and in 2024, we were also able to send a team to China to ride and connect with Pony Club members abroad. Building not just skills, but global friendships and unforgettable memories along the way,” adds Cecile.
A national network with a local heart
What makes the South African Pony Club truly special is the dedicated network of volunteers, instructors and parents who give their time to keep the clubs thriving. Their passion ensures that the legacy of Pony Club lives on, not just as a riding club, but as a community.
From coastal towns to highveld farms, branches vary in size and resources, but they share a sense of purpose and pride. Some members may go on to international showgrounds or Olympic training centres, while others may simply take what they’ve learned into life and work. In either case, the impact of Pony Club is undeniable.
“Our clubs build more than riders,” Cecile says. “They build people. Young people who are compassionate, disciplined, resilient and who understand the responsibility that comes with caring for another living being.”
A legacy for the next generation
As the South African Pony Club enters a new chapter, the goal remains the same: to keep inspiring young riders, expanding access to equestrian education, and growing the kind of community where every member feels seen, supported and challenged.
New partnerships, digital resources, and national campaigns are helping to bring Pony Club to new audiences, but the heart of the club still lies in the simple joy of a young rider learning to trot, clean tack, or comfort their pony after a long day.
From the stable yard to the showground, from the badge book to the team campfire, Pony Club is more than just an activity — it’s a foundation for life.
And in South Africa, that foundation is strong, steady, and ready for the future.
Visit https://ponyclubsa.org.za/ for more information.
By Charlene Carroll
