May 2026 Issue

May 2026 | EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN 48 USPC Milestoners Share Secrets to Making a Club Last for Nearly Half a Century young members grow and learn frommore experi- enced members, they become the next generation of older Pony Clubbers who guide newmembers to success, creating a strong, continuing community.” — Katharina “I like that we’re more independent with the horses; that we have chores that discipline us.” —Diego “I joined Cream Ridge Pony Club in 2003 when I was 11 years old. Pony Club shaped who I am by giving me realistic goals and shaping me into not only a rider but into a horseman. I attained H-A certification and run a lesson barn where my students benefit from the knowledge and trainers I experienced because of Pony Club. I have been regional supervisor of New Jersey Region Pony Club since 2022. I love giving back and allowing others to experience the program that built me as a profes- sional.” — Katie Bunca “The secret to running a long-lived and tru- ly loved Pony Club is remembering that we are building people first and riders second. When we stay rooted in the values of the United States Pony Clubs—education, sportsmanship, stew- ardship, and leadership—we create an environ- ment where members feel safe to grow, try, fail, and try again. A strong club blends high standards with en- couragement, traditions with fresh ideas, and structure with fun. It thrives when leaders invest in relationships with members, parents, and vol- unteers. It’s that sense of belonging and shared purpose that keeps families coming back year af- ter year. We hope to continue the legacy of Perki- omen Creek Pony Club for another 50 years!” — Carlene Ball “I think the secret to a fun and long-lasting Pony Club is making everyone feel welcome and im- portant. At Perkiomen Creek Pony Club, we learn how to ride and take care of our horses, but we also learn how to be good teammates and leaders. It’s fun to work hard toward certifica- tions, but it’s even better when your friends cheer you on and your leaders help you when you’re nervous. When Pony Club feels like a place where you belong and can grow, that’s what makes you want to stay for a long time. I am excited to be part of Perkiomen Creek and am hoping for an exciting year with my pony, Molly.” — Nora Ball “A lasting, well-loved Pony Club benefits from dedicated member and parent involvement. Support from regional and national leaders, along with the commitment of volunteers, is very helpful. Happy, well-engaged members keep a club viable and active. Maintaining good com- munication and promoting a sense of belonging among members will help a club thrive for years to come.” — Deb Merrill “A long-lived and well-loved club thrives when members stay genuinely involved and engaged, continually growing through ongoing education and shared experiences. When everyone remains open to constructive feedback and embraces posi- tive change, the community stays strong, connected, and built for the future.” — Rebecca Jack “A club lasts when members believe that what the club provides is genuinely beneficial. I knew as a kid, and know now as an adult, that skills I learned in Pony Club make me suc- cessful wherever I go. Public speaking, team- work, getting along with strangers, independence, communication, good quality horsemanship, how to make a packing list, and how to show up on time—all these and more I learned because some people 25 years ago thought it a good idea to teach a bunch of kids.” — Anne Kozlowski “A Pony Club’s running title requires dedication and discipline. But the friends and equine part- ners that we love are the glue that holds it together. Knowledge never ends. Pony Club is the biggest opportunity to keep learning through the years.” — Jamie Merrill What’s the secret to a long-lived and well- loved Pony Club? It’s in the glue. Continued from page 34 Image courtesy of the South Shore Riders Pony Club Image courtesy of the Blue Mountain Pony Club Image courtesy of the Cream Ridge Pony Club Image courtesy of the South Shore Riders Pony Club