English riding: Why? It gives it's students incomparable balance and support. A good seat and solid foundation in riding is beneficial in all equine sports, and there is no better way to get that than from learning on an english saddle.
Isn't english riding kind of... you know.... sissy? Try it! You'll be surprised at the challenge! And you just might get hooked - our events can be very adrenaline charged!
Why do you all wear helmets? Same reason bull riders do.
Is this all you do with your horses? Some horses are specialized, but others have a variety of skills. Our members are equestrians of all types - you might see us in 4H, rodeo, parades, working cattle or on trails in the back country.
Do you have to ride english to be in the Pony Club? Buffalo Jump members ride english in order to learn classical position and seat and also to compete in dressage and jumping events. Most of our members also have and use western tack, but english is what our club focuses on.
What does it cost? There is a yearly membership fee to USPC (United States Pony Club) and to our club (Buffalo Jump Pony Club). Yearly club fees total approximately $220! Mounted lessons are paid to instructors and range from $15-$35 a lesson.
Do you have to jump? Not if you don't want to. But don't kid yourself. You want to.
How old do you have to be? Kids eight years old can join, and Pony Club offers a "Horsemasters" program for adults, so there is really no upper limit!
Do I have to have my own horse to begin pony club? No
But my horse wasn't trained english. While it's certainly easier to learn on an english trained horse, many of our members ride horses that did other jobs in their past, including western horses.
Do you have to have a certain breed or type of horse? Nope. While horses of some types and confirmation find jumping easier than others, most sound horses can compete at the lower levels of english events. Horses must be at least 5 years old.
What if I don't have any experience? Our club is a great way to establish foundational skills and knowledge. No experience necessary! Come on and join the fun!