Londonderry Pony Club to Host International Mounted Games

Prepare for a day of extraordinary horsemanship, skill, and speed, as Londonderry Pony Club plays host to the highly anticipated Pony Club International Mounted Games Competition this Saturday, November 18, 2023. Mounted Games, considered one of the most exhilarating equestrian disciplines, will feature teams of five riders, who will showcase their skills in a series of games and challenges against the clock and fellow competitors.

Originating from an idea by HRH Prince Philip in 1957, it was meant to be a sport accessible to children who might not have expensive, well-bred ponies. The first Mounted Games competition was held at the Horse of the Year Show in London, where tehttps://youtu.be/6cV-Us-coGgams vied for the prestigious Prince Philip Cup.

This year, Pony Club Australia is proud to host an international exchange, bringing together top young mounted games riders from Australia, New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. These young riders will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent their countries.

The highlight of this exchange program is the competition, which will take place at Londonderry Pony Club. The riders will compete on ponies loaned by Australian riders, which they have grown familiar with over the course of the exchange. This event is a test of their skills, teamwork, and dedication.

LPC Vice President Sharne Haskins said hosting a world-class competition of this caliber locally is a rare opportunity, and the club is excited to provide its facilities for these elite riders.

“We would love to share this incredible event with our local community and make sure that the Australian riders have the best home ground advantage with a roaring crowd to cheer them on,” Haskins said. 

The event offers free entry, and spectators are warmly welcomed. Onsite parking is available, along with a full canteen for refreshments.

The competition will kick off at 10:30 am on Saturday, November 18th. There will be 20 races, each demonstrating the horsemanship and teamwork of these young riders.

To stay updated on the event, you can follow Londonderry Pony Club and the Pony Club International Mounted Games @ LPC on Facebook.