Sandy Creek Member Materials
Becoming a Member of Sandy Creek Pony Club FAQs
1. What does it really cost to become a member?
To become a member of the Sandy Creek Pony Club you must first be a member of the Pony Club (national). The annual national membership fee for participating members is currently $155 for new members. You will then need to pay regional dues which are currently $20 per year. You will also need to purchase a medical arm band or bracelet which are currently $6.00 (+tax and shipping) on the Pony Club Website.
In total to become a participating member of the Pony Club you will pay $181.00. correct as of December 2023.
2. How often are regular meetings and how much do they cost?
The Sandy Creek Pony Club currently meet once a month for regular meetings. These meetings consist of a mounted portion for those who have a mount and an unmounted portion which covers horse care etc. The current cost of these meetings is as follows.
Whole meeting (include mounted and unmounted) $40.00 pp
Unmounted only $20.00 pp
If you are riding at a meeting the dues are $40.00 whether you choose to stay for the unmounted portion or not. All members are strongly encouraged to take part in the Horse management portion of the meeting.
3. What is a rally and how much do they cost?
Rallies are competitions where the Pony Club members can demonstrate their knowledge and skills. Sandy Creek members can take part in regional rallies held by the Rio Grande Region. At a rally members are judged not only on their performance in the ring but also on their horse management skills. Rally entry fees vary, but are usually approximately $75.00 for unmounted rallies.
Sandy Creek offer the option for members over the age of 10 to attend rallies under the supervision of the committee members and volunteers, the fee of $50.00 for unmounted occasions is required to cover the members portion of gas and food/snacks while on the road, any portion of this fee that is not used, remains in the Sandy Creek Pony Club account and is added to the general fund. Hotel fees vary depending on the location.
4. Do a need my own horse or pony to join in?
No, members without their own horses will take part in all unmounted aspects of Pony Club. They will learn about the care of horses and take part in all aspects of horse management. They will have the opportunity to practice their unmounted skills with horses that are loaned to us by KJ Equestrian (our hosting barn). They can opt to complete ratings in horse management, take part in rallies, where they can enter the one horse division or enter as the mounted teams stable manager.
They can even enter the Quiz rally that holds a chance to qualify for national championships. Our club runs on volunteers and all members are encouraged to volunteer to help at our local and regional events.
Members without their own mount are invited to join in at Friday fun, a mini show series that is held specifically for Sandy Creek Members. Horses for this event are provided for members with out their own mount, who are capable of riding independently at the walk and trot.
Members without a mount are also encouraged to attend all educational events that are offered, locally, regionally and nationally.
5. I have my own horse/pony can I bring him/her to Pony Club?
YES! Members with a suitable mount are encouraged to bring them to mounted meetings, shows, Friday fun night and join our mounted rally team. All mounts must have a current negative Coggins certificate.
6. What equipment do I need?
All members require the following equipment
- A Helmet
- Boots with a small heel
- Light colored breeches or correctly fitting jeans (western)
- Gloves
- A polo shirt or show shirt with sleeves and a collar
- A Black Belt
- A USPC Pin (comes with membership)
- A medical armband or bracelet
- A binder
Members with their own mount will be required to bring all the equipment required for the correct care of their mount and required for riding their discipline in addition to the above.
7. Can I ride English or Western at Pony Club?
You can ride whatever style you choose at our meetings. Pony club offers many disciplines for both English and Western riders. Sandy Creek Pony Club encourages anyone who loves horses and wants to ride in a supportive environment to seek out membership.
8. Is Pony Club just for Children?
NO! Pony Club is for anyone who has a love for horses and wants to learn more and have fun. The Sandy Creek Pony Club holds adult horse management classes (Horse Masters), camps and educational events for adults too! Adults DO need to be members of USPC to participate.