The examiner will look for gradual improvement; the member has attained a reasonably firm seat independent of the reins and able to apply simple aids correctly; trot poles, small jumps and simple courses in balance with the pony; be in control of the pony in open fields and over natural type obstacles; have regard for safety, both riding and in the stable or paddock; knowledge pertaining to the care of their own pony; able to take care of their tack; politeness, punctuality, cleanliness of themselves, pony and equipment.
Candidate’s should be neat and tidy, wearing suitable boots to be around ponies. Stable Management
Explain how to correctly measure a pony’s height and weight. Give a complete description of a horse or pony that includes colour, markings, size, sex, and obvious characteristics such as whorls and blemishes.
Demonstrate or discuss how to safely turn a pony out into a paddock or field. Discuss how to safely load and unload a pony from a horse trailer (orally only).
Tack up own horse and make correct adjustments to the throatlatch and cavesson. Identify snaffles and other simple bits e.g. loose ring, eggbutt, D-ring, pelham, and kimberwick.
' Know what feeds the candidate’s own pony eats and drinks, including amounts, when and why. Know several rules of good feeding and be working toward understanding why each rule is important.
Identify and use all the items in the grooming kit except the wisp demonstrating correct technique. Candidates should be able to groom a pony with attention to the head, mane, tail and saddle areas. Discuss the best time to do a complete and thorough grooming and the reasons for grooming. Explain candidate’s own procedure for cooling out and care of the pony after work.
Discuss the good and bad features of the candidate’s own pony’s pasture and stall showing an awareness of safety surroundings in the stable and pasture (fencing, watering and feeding arrangements, etc.). Candidate should be aware of stable safety in terms of clear isles, tool storage, etc.
Discuss the signs that a pony is in good health and the things that are done to maintain its health such as worming, vaccinations and dental care. Describe what signs would indicate a pony has colic. Explain the indications that a pony is lame and how to treat a minor wound.
Locate the external parts of the foot and identify signs that trimming or reshoeing is necessary. Discuss the signs of good shoeing.
Riding
Candidate’s should be neat and tidy, wearing suitable appropriate riding attire, breeches, boots/chaps, gloves, cpc pin. . Will need the use of an approved XC vest when riding on XC.
Demonstrate a firmer, more secure correct basic position while riding at all gaits, including sitting trot without stirrups. Correct use of natural aids to maintain forward movement at all paces. Knowledge of trot diagonals and canter leads. Ride a simple flat ride (as provided in the current Testing Procedures) at the discretion of the examiners.
Demonstrate a secure jumping position over trot poles and a small jump (maximum 2’). e.g. 9’ placing pole to a small cross rail.
Ride a stadium course of at least 5 fences, including an ascending oxer and a change of direction at unrelated distances. At least 1/3 of the fences to be at maximum height 2’6”. Candidates may trot on course.
Ride independently in the open over varied terrain at all paces. Jump a few simple fences (e.g. logs) on relatively flat terrain showing control. Fences not to exceed 2’3”.