Witbank Branch of South African Pony Club

Now who and what is Witbank Pony Club? The Witbank Branch of the South African Pony Club was ratified at the Limpopo Gauteng Regional meeting on June 7, as the newest Branch of South African Pony Club.

Pony Club is an internationally accepted youth movement which builds characters and good citizenship into its members as they learn about horses and riding.

Pony Club first ever began in Britain at the beginning of 1900s. It met the need of youngsters who were losing the heritage of the horses. The horse, a beast of courage and strength and instrumental in building civilizations had been invaluable to homes and businesses; all that changed after the two World Wars.

Pony Club Rallies were begun to allow children time outdoors to enjoy and rekindle riding skills and practise Horsemastership, both of which were forgotten and almost lost in the rush for industrial progress.

South Africa’s first Club was the Rand Hunt Branch in Gauteng. There are now branches country-wide which interact on Provincial, National and Inter-National levels. The ambassadorial role of Pony Club is an integral part of it strength. South African Pony Club (SAPC) representatives recently won an Inter-National Competition in Zambia, riding borrowed ponies.

Pony Club’s newest Witbank Branch, holds regular Rallies at Bankenveld Equestrian Centre. A small but vibrant group of horse enthusiasts are currently preparing for their Riding and Road Safety Test and the D Test, which is an introductory level test to riding skills and Horsemastership. Pony Club Tests are internationally recognised.

Dates to remember are June 14 and 21 – Practising for Tests; and July 19 – testing day.

To join up with Witbank Pony Club simply call Patsy Fulton, district commissioner on 084 835 0431, or come along to the next Rally on June 14, to have a look at what is going on, or to join as a member.

Adult members are welcome; they may take the Tests, but may not be included in teams representing the Club, as that has an age restriction of below 18 years old.

Pony Club is open to horse enthusiasts from 3 to 77 years of age, who are ready to have fun and learn something new about our noble friend, the horse.