Calling all Young People aged 13-18; a Young Equestrians group has opened in your area!

The latest group to join the Nationwide project launched by The Pony Club in partnership with Hoof is the Summerhouse Equestrian Centre.

The new group is based in Gloucestershire and is open to all, you don’t have to be a Pony Club Member or even be able to ride to join.

Young Equestrians groups provide participants with the choice and freedom to try different disciplines and sporting activities as well as the opportunity to develop their equestrian skills and have time to socialise with friends.

The launch event at Summerhouse was attended by eight teens, who kicked off their opening session by putting together a list of what they want to achieve through Young Equestrians; ensuring the scheme is tailored to their interests and needs.

Following the launch, the group have been working on their show jumping technique, learning about building courses of show jumps, and hosting their own competition. Some of the group will also join The Pony Club and begin working towards their Pony Club Tests and Achievement Badges.

Tiffany Rix, Young Equestrians group leader and coach at the centre, is delighted that the scheme is already proving popular. She said: “The Young Equestrians are all so inspired, and excited to work through their list of ideas. It is fantastic to see them all blossoming both on and off the horse.”

The group meet every Monday evening, and are using their sessions to build on their equestrian knowledge and develop new friendships with like-minded individuals of a similar age. They have a number of exciting activities planned for the coming months including visits from guest speakers, trips to events and taking part in a variety of taster sessions such as polo, side saddle, western riding, vaulting and racing.

Young Equestrian Rebecca Francis is looking forward to getting involved. She said: “The first couple of sessions have been really enjoyable. Young Equestrians is a great opportunity for the future and for my CV”.

There are currently over 90 Young Equestrian clubs in the UK, with new ones opening every month. The clubs can be set up by riding schools accredited to a British Equestrian Federation Member Body, such as The Pony Club, or within Pony Club Branches. Thanks to Sport England Funding, those that sign up will be given support for their club through marketing materials, session ideas and audience insight.