Our rallies are the back bone of the Pony club. All financial members are eligible to attend rally days and be given coaching from the Pony Club Australia syllabus.
Instruction is given in:
- flatwork
- dressage
- show jumping
- cross country
- games
- theory
- horsemastership
- general knowledge
- much more
Rally days are organised by the District Commissioner.
When: Our club holds rallies from February to December on the first Sunday of every month unless otherwise advised. Some rallies maybe unmounted due to inclement weather and/or scheduled excursions.
Where: Our club grounds are at the Alexandra Show Grounds. Rallies are occasionally held at different locations, due to cross country training days, trail rides or overnight camps. Rally locations will be advised as required. Access to the grounds is via the gate marked ‘Pony Club’ on William Street, Alexandra. Gate Policy: please ensure all gates are closed as you enter/exit.
What Time: The day typically begins at 9:30am sharp for gear check, with the first lesson commencing at 10:00am. Rally days finish at 2.15pm, unless advised otherwise. During winter months, the rally start time may be delayed until 10.30am. Start times will be specified in the rally plan distributed to all members.
On Arrival: When you arrive at the Club and have settled your pony/horse, tie them to the float and ensure they have clean water. If you have time before gear check, please see the DC or President to assist with setup and preparation for the day’s activities. Once all set up is done prepare your horse/pony and yourself riding.
Gear check: All riders need to line up (“tails to the rail”) for Gear check, unmounted, in front of the main shed. Cards are handed in for completion and members will receive these back at the conclusion of the rally. Gear Check is done in accordance with the Gear Check Rule Book which is available from the PCAV.
Typical Rally Plan:
Safety talk: DC welcomes riders, and discusses any safety issues as required. The format of the Rally is summarised.
1st lesson: Instruction given to groups of up to 8 rider combinations of a similar ability for approx. 1 hour
Morning tea: Horses to remain saddled & may be tethered to hay band in the large shed. Everyone breaks together for a quick bite to eat, drink and chat.
2nd lesson: Riders remount and continue on with lesson for approx. 1 hour. This lesson is often Jumping, as horse and rider are warmed up from the morning lesson.
Lunch: Lunch is available for purchase, at reasonable prices, and the proceeds assist in ensuring the club is financially viable. All members are urged to support the efforts that are made in preparing lunches for the Pony Club.
Activities: Riders remount for a bit of fun with games or a trail ride. Theory lesson will be given at this time when riders are obtaining certificates. If you have any extra queries talk to the District Commissioner
All junior riders must always have a responsible parent/guardian on grounds for the whole day. If for some reason this person has to leave the grounds, they must see the Secretary. Because of our insurance, Junior riders without a parent/guardian will remain unmounted.
Any falls or injuries must be reported the Club Secretary using the Injury Incident Report Form.
A first aid kit is kept at the club rooms.