Category Pony Club Member Highlights

What is your favorite thing about Pony Club?

My favorite thing about pony club is the team building and how I get to enjoy the sport I love with my friends by my side.

What is one of the most valuable lessons you have learned in/from Pony Club?

One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is that you need to take your time to master skills. It is so important to master skills before you can move up to a higher level of learning and riding.

What is the most challenging part of being in Pony Club?

The most challenging part of being in pony club is the thorough learning and skill development required before moving up to a new level of riding. It is a good thing because it helps me to master what is needed before I can learn to do bigger and better things.

What horse/horses do you ride? What do you love about them?

I ride Jack and I love his kind soul, the trust he has in me, the bond we have formed, and how beautiful of an animal he really is.

Anything else you would like to share about Pony Club or The Community Farm?

I would like to share how The Community Farm, the animals and the people have taught me more than I could ever ask for! TCF has been my favorite place for so long now.

How long have you been a member of The Community Farm and what brought you?

I have been a member almost 5 years, and I first came to talk to Carol about being a physician assistant as I was applying to school that fall. While I was visiting, Carol kept telling me to come ride “that big grey mare” and I haven’t left since then. 

What kind of riding/showing do you do?

I show in 3-day events right now but grew up in the jumpers. 

What is your favorite thing about TCF?

The relaxed atmosphere and lack of drama or judgement. Everyone is really supportive and encouraging of one another . 

What is one of the most valuable lessons you have learned in/from your time at TCF?

I have learned how to think of horseback riding as a group effort and community endeavor vs competing against one another.

What horse/horses do you ride? What do you love about them?

Right now I ride Cannon, and I love that he is sensitive and smart but willing to listen to me. He has also been very fun to work on desensitizing with! 

Anything else you would like to share about TCF?

It is the best place for people who love horses, horsemanship, and understand that riding isn’t just about sitting on the horse. If you are lucky enough to fit in with our weird group, then you will stay for life. 

Why did you join Pony Club? How long have you been a member?

Pony Club’s emphasis on sportsmanship and responsibility instantly drew me to the program. All of the opportunities Pony Club has brought me have advanced my skills as a rider as well as sparked my interest in equine care. I have been a proud member of Westwoods Pony Club since June of 2019, and have enjoyed expanding my knowledge of horses and getting closer to my teammates.

What is the most challenging part of being in Pony Club?

The most challenging part of being in Pony Club is getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. Taking steps outside of my comfort zone hasn’t always been easy. However, my goals as a rider have helped me gain confidence and try news things my past scared self couldn’t even imagine!

What horse/horses do you ride? What do you love about them?

For most of my time spent at The Community Farm I have leased Rico! He has helped me overcome so many fears and continues to take me to new heights. Rico has taught me to stay flexible and think both logically and realistically even in stressful situations. The love and patience he has shown me over the last year I will forever be grateful for. Without him I don’t know where I would be today! 

Anything else you would like to share about Pony Club or The Community Farm?

I love that the Community Farm is a safe place to love, learn and grow. All the fun memories I have there inspire me to further my self as an equestrian. So thankful to everyone who has helped me get to the place I am now!