The Santa Ynez Valley Pony Club holds our meetings at Shepherd Ranch, an eventing facility that holds two USEA recognized Horse Trial Events each year. Because of our relationship with Shepherd Ranch, we are one of the few Pony Clubs in the United States that accepts donated horses which are available for lease by members who are unable to own a horse or pony. Members are required to either own or
lease a horse, because Pony Club is based on caring for your own individual horse or pony in addition to riding lessons. Members (Ages 6-24 yrs) meet twice a month, year round for group lessons and horse management. Our program stresses individual effort and self-sufficiency, as well as encouraging teamwork among the members. We teach each member the skills to take complete responsibility for their horse's health, training, and care. Riders are rated, based on their level of riding abilities and knowledge. We strive to bring this education to all members at the most reasonable costs possible, and engage all our members in fund raising tasks to support the horses, as well as the facilities to house and train them. Funds are raised through annual dues, an annual Horse Show, Jump Sponsorship, Sale of Horses, Advertising, and two 3-Day Events held at Shepherd Ranch, as well as private donations. All members and their parents are required to contribute volunteer hours. The success of the club is due to the tremendous volunteer effort required from members and their families to run the organization.
