About River Hills
The United States Pony Clubs, Inc., develops character, leadership, confidence and a sense of community in youth through a program that teaches the care of horses and ponies, riding and mounted sports.
River Hills Pony Club is a proud part of the Southern California Region of The United States Pony Clubs (USPC). We hold our main activities in Norco, California, "Horse Town USA."
Our Program: Horsemanship, Leadership, and Community
The core of our program is the mounted meetings. Members attend with their mounts for hands-on instruction that integrates riding skills, horse management, and other activities. We also hold unmounted meetings where members receive education, learn about upcoming clinics and shows, and plan club events.
We actively promote leadership:
- Mentorship: More experienced members are encouraged to step into leadership roles and mentor newer and younger members.
- Leadership Skills: Everyone is given the opportunity to advance leadership skills through instruction and club management.
Educational Advancement: Certifications and Testing
Pony Club offers a comprehensive educational path through eight nationally recognized Certifications. Members start out as "not tested" and advance through the levels at their own pace, taking tests when they are ready. Certifications are scheduled throughout the year.
Each level includes:
- Riding skills tests
- Horse management practicals
- Oral testing
Testing for the first five levels (D-1 through C-2) is performed by local examiners. The three highest levels (C-3, B, and A) are national certifications tested by national examiners, requiring a high degree of skill, knowledge, and horsemanship experience—the equivalent of a college-level education!
River Hills PC regularly sends teams of riders to local and regional competitive rallies in disciplines such as Eventing, Show Jumping, Dressage, and Quiz, a knowledge-based, unmounted, team competition focused on horsemanship and horse care. In all competitive events, teamwork, horse management, good horsemanship, and good sportsmanship are emphasized just as much as performance.
Beyond local competition, the USPC offers members advanced pathways:
| Opportunity Category |
Examples |
| National Competition & Education |
Qualified members may participate in the biennial (every other year) USPC Festival and National Championships in Lexington, Kentucky. Note: Attending Championships requires significant commitment and funding to transport a member and their mount. |
| Specialized Competition |
Invitational competitions like the President's Cup and Prince Philip Cup, USEF Pony Jumper Finals, and virtual competitions in Dressage and Quiz. |
| Cultural & International |
International Exchanges offer cultural experiences for members selected to represent USPC in countries like Ireland or New Zealand. |
| Leadership & Development |
Members can join the National Youth Board, participate in the National Youth Congress, or attend clinics and lessons with top caliber professionals. |
| Recognition & Support |
Opportunities for College Scholarships, Awards, and Recognition Programs. |
Membership
In order to participate, Pony Club members pay national, regional, and local dues.
Two participating membership types are available:
Youth members (under 18)
Adults (18 and over)
Other supporting membership types are also available for those interested in learning about horses but who may not have access to, or interest in, mounted riding.
Parents and Volunteers play a huge role in Pony Club; without their help, Pony Club would not be possible!
We welcome Youth and Adult members who share our passion for horses, and we thrive thanks to the active involvement of our dedicated parents and volunteers!
USPC Pony Clubs and Riding Centers are assigned to one of 41 geographical regions, which are administered by a volunteer Regional Supervisor (RS) and other appointed and elected officers. Regions offer additional activities and opportunities for members and support for the club and center leaders under their administration.
River Hills Pony Club is part of the Southern California Region.
Visit the region's website for the contact information for the Regional Officers.
Visit the Pony Club website to learn more about the Pony Club educational program, national events, activities and opportunities for members.