For those unfamiliar with Pony Club, the name may be deceptive. You might assume that the club is solely focused on children and ponies but, in fact, it is an equine program open to all ages. Amy Aureli serves as district commissioner of the Granby Pony Club that is a member of the United States Pony Clubs, Inc. (USPC). Based in Lexington, Ky., USPC is the largest equine educational organization in North America. Started in 1954 and originally based on Great Britain’s The Pony Club, the curriculum teaches riding skills, horse care fundamentals and sportsmanship within a structured learning pathway. Members progress at their own pace, beginning with club certifications and moving to national certifications. Pony Club is for everyone who loves horses and wants to learn about them.
With members in Granby as well as Avon, Canton, Ellington, Enfield and Vernon, the Granby Pony Club brings together members from ages 12 to 62 who share an interest in horsemanship and community. While owning a horse is not required, having access to a horse allows members to participate in mounted activities that the club organizes. Granby Pony Club has hosted guest speakers including farriers, veterinarians and a visit to the Hampden County Mounted Patrol Unit.
Granby Pony Club is a member of the New York/Upper Connecticut Region and Granby resident, Lynn Guelzow, serves as regional supervisor. With 10 clubs in the region, there are a variety of opportunities to increase skills in both riding and horsemanship. In June, a three-day intensive program, both riding and unmounted, was held at the Kent School. On both the eastern and western sides of the region, clinics were held involving games, cross country and other riding disciplines. In the fall a Horse Management and Certification Clinic, free to all regional members, will be held. In addition to mounted programs, the club also uses Quiz Rally as a fundamental learning tool, providing members with opportunities to learn good sportsmanship, leadership and teamwork.
In addition to horsemanship and riding skills, the goal of the Granby Pony Club is to teach life skills, such as communication, confidence, leadership, safety, responsibility and teamwork. Leadership opportunities for 18 to 23-year-olds through the USPC National Youth Congress and National Youth Board provide an empowering platform for Pony Club members to take on leadership positions, actively participate in events and projects, and boost camaraderie within clubs and regions. The Granby Pony Club welcomes new members. Anyone interested in learning more can email granbyponyclub@gmail.com for information.