Saddling up for the future: Lakeville Pony Club hosts open house

Whether you’re a young rider, a parent, or simply horse-curious, the Lakeville Pony Club is inviting the public to get a behind-the-scenes look at its long-standing equestrian tradition. Founded in 1956, the club will host an Open House on Tuesday, August 12, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Riga Meadow Equestrian Centerin Amenia, NY. Guests are welcome to arrive early to watch the club in action, meet the horses, chat with current members, and learn more about the club’s programs and history.

Riga Meadow is run by Linda Bushnell, a Pony Club graduate herself. Originally situated on Route 41 in Salisbury, The Club moved to Amenia in 2018 after the Salisbury property was sold.

The Club’s current membership includes children from the towns of the Northwest Corner of Connecticut, as well as New York and Massachusetts, representing a broad range of ages (7 to 18) and abilities, from beginners to advanced riders. Although some members own or lease their own horse, owning a horse is not required and most members use the stable’s horses, or the dedicated Pony Club horse, Quincy.

The Club is led by parent volunteers, with support from both the national and regional offices. There are certifications, much like scout badges, as the kids are tested for their knowledge of horses, stable management, and riding skills. Since the knowledge testing involves oral presentations, the kids learn how to stand up and present to their peers. They also learn marketable skills—horse care and stable management—that they can parlay into earning extra money by working at Riga Meadow and other area barns in need of help. Some go on to become professionals in the equine industry, while others pursue careers in medicine or veterinary school. The Club produces some real high achievers!

Pony Club offers opportunities for members to participate in local and regional competitions. A highlight is the annual Halloween party, where Pony Clubbers and their horses are in full costume, competing for prizes. There’s also summer camp — a concentrated week where younger riders are mentored by older ones, and everyone learns and competes in a supportive environment.

Here are some of the things the Club’s kids have said about their belonging to Pony Club:

“I love to meet all the different people and learn new things with people who share my passion.”

“It’s like a family – everyone is there for each other.”

“I love riding with a group of friends.”

“I love the ability to try new things and learn through experience.”

“I love the team competition and being able to help each other.”

Finally, mark your calendars. The Club’s annual horse show, the Lakeville Open, will be on the Riga Meadow property on Sunday, September 7. The show runs all day and admission is free.

For further information and updates on this event, visit facebook.com/LakevillePonyClub/.

Caitlin von Graf

Pony clubbers learn how to groom a horse