A quick catch up with our Youth Collaboration Group as a Abby and Lana chat all things Pony Club and what being part of their local clubs mean to them as they embark on their early careers in the industry.
Abby Beckett – Racing Groom
When did you do / participate in The Pony Club?
I was introduced to the pony club at age 13 by some other girls on my livery yard when I got my first pony Billy. I’m still apart of the pony club now at age 20!
What’s your favourite memory of it so far?
One of my favourite memories would have to be pony camp and representing my branch at showjumping competitions. Our branch (Southdown Hunt East) would hold a residential camp at Plumpton Racecourse every July. It was always so much fun spending the week with your friends & pony doing all sorts of activities including xc!
Did you compete with anyone riding professionally now?
A couple of famous faces have come through the Southdown Hunt East Pony Club, the Moore family being one. Professional flat jockey Jason Watson who did come to pony camp once to give us a talk also.
How did the pathway help you in your career?
So, I’m currently a Racing Groom / Work Rider in the horseracing industry. The Pony Club has helped me massively in my career. It’s not just about riding but stable management too. This has been so helpful as the skills I learnt gave me a head start at the racing school and in my job now as a lot of it crosses over.
If you’re still doing it what are your career goals?
I’ve remained a member of the pony club so that I can continue to learn and progress through the standards of efficiency tests where I am currently studying to take my B test.
On a scale of 1-10 how much fun is it?
1000/10!!
Lana Muller – Apprentice Business Co-ordinator
When did you do / participate in The Pony Club?
I am still in it, I joined the pony club at a very young age as a toddler! I have always been a Wyre Forest member and will continue to be so.
What’s your favourite memory of it so far?
My favourite memory of The Pony Club is probably my first proper pony club camp (without my parents) when I was 11/12. I had an absolute blast, we all did loads and I made new friends and even won a competition on my old pony. My favourite course for the pony club is probably either Blenheim or Gatcombe.
How did the pathway help you in your career?
The pony club has helped my career path grow significantly by always keeping me engaged with horses, challenging me with different exercises and competitions. This has also helped with skills such as communication, patience and compassion. Which is vital in my current job at Worcester Racecourse. Seen as I’m still in the pony club, I would consider doing my instructor course to widen my career pathway.
On a scale of 1-10 how much fun is it?
Definitely it was a 10! I couldn’t be happier with my PC, all the friends I’ve made, the instructors and of course the horses!
Both are part of our Careers in Racing Youth Collaboration Group which this summer has members successfully land placements on the British Horseracing Development Programme, Racing Media Academy and new joiners all targeting the foundation courses over the next year!
