RALLY PROCEDURES
Potential members are required, upon invitation, to attend one rally unmounted and to complete an application form, which is then considered at the next committee meeting. Upon acceptance by the committee and payment of the insurance component of the fees, the rider may then attend the next rally mounted and will be assessed by the Chief Instructor (as to the rider's standard) and will be allocated to a training group. The family then has three months to decide whether they want to become members. The rider may ride at rallies only (not Pony Club competitions) as a visitor. At the end of the three months, the balance of the fees are payable and the rider is entitled to participate in all Pony Club activities. Currently there is a waiting list so potential new members will be placed on the list until there is a place available.
THE RIDERS PARENTS OR NOMINATED GUARDIAN MUST REMAIN ON THE PONY CLUB GROUNDS FOR THE DURATION OF THE RALLY.
At present, there is one rally a month. This is held on the first full weekend of the month (ie. If the Sunday is the 1st, then the rally will be held on the 8th). Additional 'special' half day rallies my be arranged from time to time.
The basic program for a full day rally is:
Full Day Rally
8.45 - Gear Check
9.00 - 10.30 - Instruction
10.30 - 12.00 - Instruction
12.00 - 12.30 - Untack and feed horse
12.30 - 1.30 - Lunch
1.30 - 2.00 - Tack up
2.00 - 4.00 - Instruction
4.00 - Dismissal
THE RIDERS PARENTS OR NOMINATED GUARDIAN MUST REMAIN ON THE PONY CLUB GROUNDS FOR THE DURATION OF THE RALLY.
At present, there is one rally a month. This is held on the first full weekend of the month (ie. If the Sunday is the 1st, then the rally will be held on the 8th). Additional 'special' half day rallies my be arranged from time to time.
The basic program for a full day rally is:
Full Day Rally
8.45 - Gear Check
9.00 - 10.30 - Instruction
10.30 - 12.00 - Instruction
12.00 - 12.30 - Untack and feed horse
12.30 - 1.30 - Lunch
1.30 - 2.00 - Tack up
2.00 - 4.00 - Instruction
4.00 - Dismissal
INSTRUCTORS
Unlike some clubs who employ outside instructors, Mountain Pony Club relies mostly on volunteer instructors. They are mostly parents of members, are experienced in their field and are qualified in the Pony Club Way. Although we aim to provide the best possible instruction, the emphasis is on safety and having fun. It is advised that riders continue to have lessons outside of Pony Club as their progress will be slow if they rely upon instruction once a month. Once the riders are under their control of the instructors, it is important to allow them to do their job without interference.
CLINICS
From time to time, we hold specialist clinics when we do employ outside professionals. There may be an additional cost involved. They are usually popular and very beneficial to the members.
LUNCH
Riders and families are asked to bring a salad and a sweet to share for lunch on the full day rallies and gather in the club rooms at lunch time. The Club provides a BBQ lunch at a cost of $5 per person / $15 per family. This is a social time for members and families and the Club's week-to-week news is dealt with during this time. Arrangements for lunches are reviewed from time to time and members are advised of any change through the club newsletter.
