May 2026 Issue

May 2026 | EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN 34 USPC Milestoners Share Secrets to Making a Club Last for Nearly Half a Century By L.A. Berry What’s the secret to running a long-lived— and loved—United States Pony Club? Part of the answer emerged at the largest USPC Convention in recent memory, held earlier this year at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort in Illinois where more than 500 attendees from 36 regions gathered, and nearly two dozen clubs were recog- nized for milestone 50th and 25th anniversaries. “While the USPC Convention always provides a mix of education for any horse lover, one of the main points this year was the future of USPC,” said executive director Teresa Woods, noting the strong presence of members who have become leaders in their professions and communities. “We’re excited about where USPC is headed.” “The secret to a long-lived and loved club is 100% the volunteers,” said Karol Wilson, USPC Member Services and Regional Administration Director. “Membership and resources may ebb and flow, but enthusiastic, welcoming leaders who support mem- bers and families are what sustain a club.” Former USPC president James K. Ligon once summed up the program’s foundation: “Respon- sibility…is a natural result of having complete care of a living creature.” That responsibility extends beyond the horse to the club itself. So we asked milestone clubs what keeps them riding forward. “The secret to a long running Pony Club is to al- ways focus on members learning great horse man- agement skills, having fun, and making friends. It’s also important to be flexible, as members’ needs and interests change over the years.” — Janae Klinger, District Commissioner, Blue Mountain Pony Club “I’ve been in Pony Club for eight years and some of my favorite memories are early mornings fox hunting, and long, busy days at rally that some- how fly by. Going to Championships was a special experience I’ll always be proud of; Pony Club has given me many opportunities and friendships. It’s shaped so much of who I am.” — Laurel, BMPC member “I have been district commissioner for over 15 years. My daughters started in the club over 20 years ago. My favorite part of being involved with Cream Ridge Pony Club for such a long time is long-term friendships and relationships between adults, and kids moving into adulthood. Many continue as adults in Pony Club doing their part to help it thrive. We have past members now in careers who help with certifications, educating young members, working rallies, and taking care of horses during periods of need. Families slowly but surely enlarge into extend- ed families revolving around Pony Club. There is nothing more rewarding than to see what used to be a shy member become a peer for younger members (and sometimes adults). Many continue in the equestrian world as vets, vet techs, barn owners, barn managers, feed reps and elite athletes; others have ventured into human health. Cream Ridge Pony Club is blessed to have a long run of wonderful officers, parents, and mem- bers and, hopefully, continuing on with strong membership and leadership into the future.” — Anne Stevens, District Commissioner “Pony Club has helped me learn and grow a lot. Being in the club has taught me that you have to be responsible and work hard, but it’s worth it, be- cause horses are the best!” — Julia “Pony Club not only gave me fundamental knowledge about horses and riding that I have used across the last 10+ years, but helped give me confidence and strength in so many aspects of life. It set me up with goals to strive towards in riding, strengthened study habits, developed leadership, and left lasting friendships. Twelve-hour rally days remain some of my favorite memories, teaching me how to show up, work hard, and give my all to something I am truly passionate about!” — Jillian “I really like Pony Club. You get horse man- agement knowledge, as well as a lot of riding, and meeting people. It’s nice to have chill rides with friends.” — Lena “Cream Ridge Pony Club has been a large part of my life. Through lessons, rallies, and ratings I have not only learned integral horse-related skills but life lessons about teamwork, patience, and hard work. Cream Ridge fosters a supportive com- munity where I, like many others have and will, create lifelong bonds with horses and humans. As Continued on page 48 Image courtesy of the Blue Mountain Pony Club Image courtesy of the Cream Ridge Pony Club