Pony Club Road Safety

It has been reported by the B.H.S. that in the United Kingdom there are over 3,000 road traffic accidents involving horses. In the majority of these accidents the rider requires medical attention.

The Pony Club road safety test is designed to prepare children for riding on the roads. It seeks to teach them to be aware of the dangers they face and how to react to, and deal with, the ever changing situations they will encounter on todays fast moving public highways. Minor roads are proving statistically to represent a greater hazard to all road users.

Preparation for the test is best undertaken by members of approximately 10 to 12 years of age. This is usually the age when members are preparing to take their “C” test. Members who do not hold their Road Safety Certificate may not wear their badge with the green “C” test felt circle and may not progress on to their “C+” test training.

As advised by Pony Club Headquarters, the Tedworth Pony Club road safety training scheme aims to involve parent and child in exploring the necessary skills and knowledge required to be responsible for an unpredictable pony on the public highway. Vehicles regularly travel on minor roads at speeds of up to 70m.p.h. in places and a high level of road sense is necessary in order to cope and react in a safe manner. This is the point in their lives when children become active road users as opposed to passive passengers in a car.

Cycling proficiency training and testing is available in many schools. This preparation holds many advantages for young riders as it helps to build up the childs level of road sense.

The Tedworth Pony Club Road Safety theory training session lasts 90 minutes and includes two short B.H.S. videos. The venue is 17, Manton Hollow, Marlborough. Sessions are arranged to suit individual families or a small group of friends together with a parent from each family.

Members will need to bring a copy of the current Pony Club Road Safety manual (these can be purchased on the day from Mrs. Elks.) and one item of high visibility clothing (reflective and fluorescent combined) obtainable from tack shops or mail order riding specialists. Older members who have already passed the test are always welcome to attend on a refresher basis. All sessions and the test itself are free of charge.

The practical training and test takes 1 hour and is conducted at the base where members keep their ponies, or at camp. The test does not take place on the public highway for safety reasons.

THIS TEST IS NOT DESIGNED TO GUARANTEE THE SAFETY OF A CHILD ON THE ROAD. Members who achieve the standard of knowledge required by the Pony Club will receive their certificate.

Parents must always ensure that their child is properly equipped, possesses the necessary strength and riding skills, and that the pony is suitable to be ridden in traffic by a child if they intend to hack out on the roads. The Pony Club advises that no child under 12 years old should ever be allowed to ride on the public highway unless accompanied by an adult.

For more information and to arrange a theory session please contact:

Alex Cox 01672 810138  or alex@coxweb.co.uk