Horsemasters

The Horsemasters program allows participants the opportunity to access the Pony Club structure in an adult environment. Horsemasters can attend rallies and Championships, achieve Certifications, and have a voice in the activities of the club. Whether your goal is to compete and advance through the Certifications, or just to learn more about horses and how to care for them, the Horsemasters program has a spot for you!

Horsemasters is open to any rider of any experience level over 18 years of age.

What is Pony Club?

The United States Pony Clubs (USPC) is an internationally recognized organization that focuses on the education of equestrians of all ages. Members can join a club in their region to access riding lessons, lessons on horse management, and participate in team competition called “rallies” across the region. Red Gate Farm is proud to offer the Pony Club program in the form of the Red Gate Pony Club.

The Pony Club Certifications system is the backbone of the program. As a rider ascends through the levels, the depth of equine knowledge and scope of riding ability required increases. The Certifications, from lowest to highest, are D-1, D-2, D-3, C-1, C-2, C-3, HB, B, H-A, A. The “D-1” level is designed for even the most beginner of riders, so never fear, all riders may participate! The highest level, the “A”, is internationally recognized as the peak of horse knowledge and riding expertise. Many successful horse professionals are “A” graduates from Pony Club. Notable Pony Club graduates in the eventing world include Lynn Symansky (A), William Fox-Pitt (B), Colleen Rutledge (A), Maya Black (A), and Tim Bourke.

Pony Club has traditionally revolved around Eventing instruction, though in recent years the organization has widened its scope to encompass hunters/show jumping and dressage as well. The primary focus at Red Gate will be on Eventing, though it is absolutely accessible to any individual who would like to join with any interest in English riding, horsemanship, and equine knowledge.

How do I become a part of Pony Club?

There are three tiers of organization to Pony Club: National, Regional, and the Club level.

• To join the USPC, you will need to complete the National form.
• To participate with the Region (Virginia Region Pony Clubs), please complete this form. This form is required. 
• Participation on the Club level will come when you sign up for Pony Club lessons at the farm.

Email Center Administrator Christie McKitrick for more information: christina.mckitrick@gmail.com

First time expenses ( approximate)

$165 to USPC

$35 to VRPC

What are the expectations of members?

Pony Club is about community: the volunteering efforts of members are crucial to the success of any Pony Club. We strongly encourage participation from all our Horsemasters members in the form of the Adult Board for the Red Gate Pony Club, and also in the Horsemasters Board. This is the way for your voice to be heard within the club and to be an integral part of the community.

Center Administrator: Christine Vitkus (703) 585-7586

Adult Board

Assistant Center Administrator

Certifications Coordinator

Rally Coordinator

Membership Coordinator

Treasurer

Secretary

Fundraising Coordinator

Volunteer Coordinator

HMX Board

President

Vice President

Secretary

Treasurer

Do I have to have a horse?

No, you just need to have access to one! If you sign up for the Pony Club lessons, you’ll be able to participate in the lessons on a Red Gate school horse. Please view the FAQ for more information. 

Lesson Schedule

$500 per session

This includes 8 riding lessons and 2 ground schools

Lessons will take place certain Sundays. Please see the Lesson Page for the current session.