The rider’s first introduction to certificates comes with the D Certificate. This is awarded for keenness and encouragement. The candidate must have reached a minimum age of 7 years before examination. The candidate should have attended at least three (3) rally days and have learned about elementary grooming, feeding and general care of a horse as well as basic riding. There is no written paper for this certificate
Specific details regarding the examination for the D certificate are listed below.
RIDING
Riders should present in full Pony Club Uniform.
The pony is to be tidy.
Mounting and dismounting. A mounting block may be used.
Being legged up.
How to hold and use the reins.
Capable of starting, guiding and stopping the pony and riding at the walk, rising trot and canter without being led.
Road safety rules-know the do’s and don’ts of riding on the road.
Take part in simple mounted games & riderexercises.
HORSE HANDLING
Approach, catch and lead a quiet pony.
Tie a pony up with a rope at correct length, preferably to string, using a quick release knot.
Let the pony go in the paddock.
Give a pony an apple or carrot safely.
HORSE CARE
Identify and demonstrate use of grooming tools: - dandy brush, body brush, rubber curry comb, hoof pick.
Saddle and bridle a pony, with assistance
Know the comfortable living conditions for a pony
Know what a pony eats and drinks
Identify parts of the horse: - Nostril, forehead, eye, ear, muzzle, forelock, crest, neck, mane, shoulder, wither, back, loins, rump, tail, hock, knee, fetlock and hoof.
Identify parts of saddlery: - Bridle, bit, reins, cheekstrap, browband, nose band, throatlash, saddle, girth,stirrups, pommel, leathers, seat, crupper and surcingle.
Know how to wipe dust and mud off saddlery and put away tidily.
Most riders’ next move onto the D Gold Star certificate, although this is not compulsory. The candidate must have attained the age of 9 years and have gained further knowledge in grooming, feeding, and care of the horse.
Candidates must have control of their ponies and show a more secure and correct position for flat work and jumping. This certificate is an extra activity for any Club wishing to include it in their curriculum and fill in the years from 9 to 12.
The D Gold Star is not a prerequisite for any subsequent certificate. There is no written paper required for this certificate. Specific details for the D Gold Star certificate are listed below.
RIDING
The rider is to be in full Pony Club uniform.
The pony is to be tidy.
Mount correctly (from a mounting block if necessary).
Dismount from either side of the pony
Walk, rising trot and canter in a large area, including circles, straight lines and change of direction.
Make transitions on command.
Trot and canter at varying speeds.
Ride with reins in one hand. Hold and use a short whip correctly.
Trot on a loose rein.
Change trot diagonal on command.
Rising trot over poles on the ground in a forward position.
Negotiate small jumps of varied design from the trot.
Know simple traffic rules when riding on the road.
HORSE HANDLING
Lead and turn a pony in hand at the walk & trot (with bridle)
Pick up and clean out front feet.
HORSE CARE
Knowledge of basic feeding and care of the pony.
Basic care of the feet.
Identify parts of the hoof - Wall, frog, sole and heels.
Identify the farriers tools - Rasp, hammer, toe knife, buffer and pincers.
Identify parts of the horse - Throat, elbow, pastern, dock, coronet, hips, hock, stifle, ribs and cheek.
Identify & demonstrate use of: - Dandy brush, body brush, curry comb, hoof pick.
Identify parts of the saddle: - Cantle, waist, gullet, stirrup bar & sweat flap.
Clean and put away saddlery.
Describe the following conditions: - Girth gall, cold, colic and laminitis (founder).
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Know the names of the Club Executive.