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Becoming A Member

The Irish Pony Club (I.P.C.) is the main equestrian organisation in Ireland providing training in all disciplines of equestrian activities including show jumping, eventing, hunter trials, dressage, mounted games & tetrathlon (running, swimming, riding & shooting) for young people up to the age of 23.  We are always keen to welcome new members so if you are interested in joining then see our How to Join page.

The Irish Pony Club (I.P.C.) providing training in all disciplines of equestrian activities.

Many of our members are happy just to take part in their branch rallies and camps where they simply enjoy riding with their friends. Members who are interested in improving their riding skills to a higher level can take part in the training we offer.

The I.P.C. is focused on helping its members to improve their riding, horse or pony care and stable management skills. We have a wide range of Achievement Badges that members can work towards. These include topics such as plaiting and mucking out to bird watching and wild flowers.

Training

We also provide training towards Pony Club proficiency tests that take our members from basic riding skills in the D test through a series of test levels up to advanced riding, instructing and equestrian management skills in the A test. More details are available on the Pony Club Tests page.

The Activities section provides more details of our various activities from branch rallies and camps to specific disciplines such as show jumping, eventing, etc. We run competitions at local, area and national level and you can find details of the competitions on the specific discipline page in the activities section. Results of the national competitions will be posted on the Results page of this website. Members who succeed in our national competitions have the opportunity to compete at international level.

Rules

The I.P.C., like all organisations, has a set of rules that our members work under. You can find our rule books on the downloads page. This page provides links to all our documents and in particular the rule books and tack sheets for all our disciplines. The downloads page of the IPC website also contains many of the vital membership documents that you may need including the Membership Renewal Form and Membership Transfer Form.

If you need more information or are unsure of anything you can talk to your branch District Commissioner, a committee member or children’s officer who will always be willing to help you.

Membership Forms can be found here

F.A.Q.

What should I do next?
If you would like to join or just need more information then the next step is to contact your local branch which you can find on our IPC Branches Page. The branch District Commissioner or membership secretary will provide you with all the information that you need to join. New Members Membership Application form can be filled out and returned to your branch District Commissioner or membership secretary If you are unsure which is your local branch then contact our head office and they will be happy to help.
See our Branches
Why should I join?
  • The IPC provides highly trained and experienced instructors, including instructors with international experience.
  • You can learn all aspects of horsemanship and horse welfare.
  • There is a structured system of achievement and test badges to reward achievement as you progress as a rider.
  • We provide the opportunity to try out various equestrian disciplines including show jumping, eventing, jump cross, dressage, mounted games, tetrathlon (riding, running, swimming & shooting), and jockey skills.
  • Branches run summer camps (which may be residential) which for many members is the highlight of the year.
  • There is an opportunity to compete in local, regional and national competitions. If you’re really lucky you could qualify to represent Ireland in international events.
  • You can follow in the footsteps of many of Ireland’s leading riders such as Bertram Allen and Camilla Speirs who rose through the ranks of the Irish Pony Club.
  • We’re a friendly bunch and it’s great fun!
What are the age limits?

There is no official minimum age but generally members should be able to ride unassisted before we accept them as a member. We have members aged from about 5 who joined once they were off the lead rein, although it is up to the discretion of the branch District Commissioner. The maximum age is 23. You should contact the District Commissioner of your local branch for further information.

Do I have to be able to ride to a high standard to join?

We cater for all standards of rider from those who are just off the lead rein to very experienced riders. We provide activities for all abilities. You should contact the District Commissioner of your local branch for further information.

Do I need to own my own pony to join?

It is not a requirement to own your own pony to join. However, you will need to be able to bring a pony, whether it is your own, on loan or hired, to your branch rallies and training days which may be held at various locations. You should contact the District Commissioner of your local branch for full details as some branches meet at an equestrian centre and may be able to provide a pony on loan for the rally.

How much does it cost?

Membership of the Irish Pony Club is €110 per year. Membership runs from January to December and includes members’ insurance.

There will also be charges for rallies, training meetings and competitions.  You should contact the DC or membership secretary of your local branch for full details as some branches may offer discounts or include a number of rallies in their subscription fee.

Most events are registered and paid for online through Its Plain Sailing.