Sterling Hunter/Jumpers recognizes that horse-back riding is certainly not just for kids! We’ve instructed many adults and feel that they would benefit from a “Pony Club” like organization. The Old People’s Riding Club (OPRC) is a national organization with chapters throughout the US, but there isn’t a chapter close to Austin. We need at least 5 adults (ages 21 and up) who are interested to form our own chapter at Sterling H/J. The OPRC operates similarly to the United States Pony Club (USPC), although there is no affiliation with this group. The OPRC’s mission is to promote safe and enjoyable horsemanship through educational activities to anyone over the age of 21 no matter the discipline. The OPRC has incorporated the rating system of the United States Pony Club into their organization; however, the ratings have been modified to suit the older rider, the Western rider, and the English rider who does not jump. They have also incorporated more safety topics into the ratings tests.

Until we have formed our own chapter, it’s my plan to go ahead and hold monthly meetings for those interested to begin working on their skills for the ratings. The $15 fee is to cover copy charges and horse usage. The skills include all aspects of horse care and riding including safety around the horse, nutrition, first aid and everyday medical care, daily horse management, etc. In addition, the group would plan outings and special events such as trail rides to State Parks and private ranches, club pot lucks and riding demos, and host clinicians.