Why aren't small adults riding ponies?

[goponies]

I've often wondered why thare aren't more adults riding ponies. I'm 5`2`` and was put on behemoths when I was taking lessons. One was 18 hands!!!! And I never had fun riding one of those giants...Put me on a pony and well it just feels right! Right now all I own are ponies, one mare tops at a chunky 13.2h, the other a gelding at 14.1h. I'd like to market some ponies to the adult market but there are so very few riders that don't turn their nose...
Well there's always Reynard Ridge and her 700$ pony I guess!!!

Who out there would buy a pony? BTW this is NOT a sales pitch it's all hypothetical!

Pros: ponies are for the most part friendly, they let you know right away what's wrong. Ponies are tough, eat barely anything and don't need as much room as a big horse. They also cost less to buy. There's less manure to pick. Don't need a mounting block the size of, well,... a mountain. Don't need an oversize trailer, small is fine. And the list goes on!

Cons: well ponies are ...ponies! But if they've been well handled they shouldn't have pony-tude.

Come get on the bandwagon, let others at shows stare at you, be courageous, ride a PONY!!!!

[siseley]

;) ;)

I don't ride a pony, but instead a small Arabian. She is only about 14.2, and just as strong and much easier to mount than the OTTB I was first training on. There are Paso's, Arabs, and lots of cob sized horses too, that work exceptionally well for smaller adults.
P.S. I am about 155 lbs, and Male, at only 5'6", a real meadow muffin.

Steve

[Jasmine]

I bred my mare to a pony for a nice medium pony for myself. I am also selling my 2 year old, since he's decided he's going to be big. If I do buy another, it will be either a hony, or a pony.

[ExJumper]

I'm sure many small adults would ride ponies...if that didn't mean that they would then have to SHOW ponies. Granted the A/A hunters are technically the same size fences as the Large Ponies, but I wouldn't wnat to be on one competing against a full-sized horse loping down the lines and through the combinations.

It says in the rule book that adults may ride ponies, suitability to count. But I don't anyone who wanted to win would try to do it on a pony.

(Plus, I think they're way smarter and therefore more difficult than horses!)

Oh, and a competitive 3' large pony probably costs more than an equally capable 3' horse.

[IndysMom]

most people don't ride ponies because they have pony gaits. Not too comfortable for old backs...

[furlong47]

I'm 5'10" and will ride large ponies that can carry me (Haflingers, Quarter Ponies, and other stocky/drafty types) :lol: But then I don't show and so don't worry about 'suitability'

[deltawave]

For showing in hunters, there is just no place for ponies in the adult divisions. Maybe there should be, though! Pony jumpers look like a hoot, but if I'm not mistaken those divisions are also for Juniors only. Also in dressage, it's tough to find a pony with big, elastic gaits (unless you import a six-figure German warmblood pony) and "big" is still very much the thing in that world. A lot of people of all shapes and sizes ride horses of all shapes and sizes in eventing, but there too you want something that can make time and score well in dressage and many (although certainly not all!) ponies just don't have the gaits or the speed.

[2ndyrgal]

because we don't have to.

[no_discipline]

Only ponies here(well, Haflingers aren't technically ponies...or are they?...):cool: I don't show either, but they make excellant trail mounts. And yes, to what another poster said...their trots are not the most comfortable thing to endure:lol:.

[gully's pilot]

Gully's pony -bred (Connemara) but not pony sized (15.05). We event; I don't understand why more adults aren't on the smaller-sized dudes. After all, if ponies are good enough for Karen O'Connor....

[eventamy]

I'm all for ponies and short horses! I have a barely 14.3 Connemara cross and a 15.1 Connemara that I Weenie Event.
I used to have a 13.3 Haflinger mare that I loved, did the local hunter on the flats and weenie events on her. She was reserve Champ several times out against horses in our green horse divisions.
I'm all for more riders riding horses/ponies more suitable to their size! I'm 5'3 with very short legs, and although I've had very tall horses to ride in the past (think 17.1 Trak. and 17.3 TB) I looked ridiculous! My friend had a 17 hand TB with such big movement I had a really hard time trotting him with my short legs. I could walk, canter and jump him all day, but I hated his trot! Now, when I look at horses I won't even consider anything over 16 hands!
My cousin, although young, is my size and events at Novice on a Haflinger who is not quite 14 hands. He's awesome! He's like a Mack truck for dressage but bombs around cross country like it's nothing and is winning against much bigger horses.

[Daydream Believer]

All of my horses (all 25 of them) are small horses or large ponies...that is their normal size. I have no interest in owning a large horse again after years of trying to hold big guys together soundness wise. I also find the larger beasties to generally be more work to ride and harder to sit versus the other way around. It sure is easier to get on or off something around 14:2 also if you don't have a mounting block handy!

My stallion, who I will be campaigning in dressage, just crossed into official horse size this fall at 149-150 c.m., so I will not face restrictions at least on what I can do with him. I am somewhat relieved for that and since I don't care about the size limit otherwise, that's OK with me.

I think with the aging baby boomer population and the large number of female riders, we are going to see an increase in demand for smaller mounts as more and more people discover that little equines can be athletic, competitive and be lovely movers as well.

[Reynard Ridge]

Well there's always Reynard Ridge and her 700$ pony I guess!!! Come get on the bandwagon, let others at shows stare at you, be courageous, ride a PONY!!!!

Right - I ride a pony, but, I'm not all that successful! :D The truth is, if I wanted to be really competitive in either dressage or eventing, I would dump the pony and buy myself a nice packer. :yes: But, I don't care that much, so the Pony and I will plonk around happily together. :)

There ARE terrific pony individuals out there - Teddy being a huge star, and lots of lovely, lovely dressage ponies. But it really is an individual thing. If you want to do upper level eventing, it's hard to PLAN to ride a pony. If you are a hunter rider, you simple can't ride a pony, as DW pointed out.

I am a huge pony advocate, and personally believe that a lot of plonker type adults like myself would do just fine on a lovely pony. And our Wee Spotted Driving Pony is providing my wee children and I with HOURS of fun, kid friendly entertainment.

But, hey, maybe someday those poor horse riding (not too tall and not too wide) adults will be lucky enough to come upon the pony of their dreams. For now, they have farther to fall. :cool:

[tullio]

In a perfect world, I'd have a nice tall show horse who could walk down the lines and make the 3' fences look tiny...

... and a 14.1hh PONY to foxhunt, hunt pace, trail ride, and otherwise enjoy. I had a wonderful large pony growing up, and I miss his athleticism and SMARTS all the time! He was tough, game for anything, easy to keep fit and healthy, had diamond tipped hooves (or so it seemed) and was smarter than me. I'd love to have another and at 5'3" with long legs and no upper body, it can happen!

But I love to go to shows, so I'd have to have two equines to get the best of both worlds. And my first priority would be a horse to jump and show.

[Cherry]

I'd be willing to buy a large pony! I learned to ride on a small Tennessee Walking Horse (who would only trot, btw)--she couldn't have been more than 14.2. I currently have a Thoroughbred "hony" who is around 14.3 and three quarters tall (when I bought her they told me she was 15.1 but none of us bothered to "stick" her).

Some people just don't have a clue--what can I tell you???? Bigger is not always better! :winkgrin:

[Sakura]

My favorite riding horse is an Arabian that is a hair under 14.1 hh. He is a hoot to ride with three outstanding gates (no choppy pony trot on this fellow). The only complaint I have is finding tack that fits... Bridles tend to be too bulky and hide his pretty face and girths are a headache to find in the right size.

If there were more small adults showing ponies perhaps there would not be such a stigma against them...

[clint]

I'm 5'2" and a couple of years ago decided that of the horses I have ridden, I really like a smaller mount. It took quite awhile to find a large pony that had horse gaits, but I did, and rode this pony for over a year before deciding that I loved the size, but not the attitude. The pony preferred jumping, so she went to a kid, a good solution. After that I stumbled across a 14.3 hh QH, and I just adore her. Great attitude and decent gaits, although she wouldn't make a competitive dressage horse. The surprising part of this is how hard it is to find a small horse/large pony with a good attitude and good gaits. (And I realize German Riding Ponies are out there, but the price is a tad steep.)

[Kate66]

I have looked for ages for a smallish horse that has the nice big gaits. Last year I bought a lovely Hanoverian who was only 15.2h, partly because she was only 15.2h and I didn't want to go bigger. Since then I have learned about the German Riding Ponies, which look absolutely fabulous. If I buy another and I can afford one, I will look at the GRP - they are unbelievably expensive though - big gaits in a small package.
A couple of years someone offered to lease me a very competitive 14h pony, who I think was doing 3rd level dressage. I didn't take him because the short, stumpy gaits just drove me nuts.

[no_discipline]

I'm 5'2" and a couple of years ago decided that of the horses I have ridden, I really like a smaller mount. It took quite awhile to find a large pony that had horse gaits, but I did, and rode this pony for over a year before deciding that I loved the size, but not the attitude. The pony preferred jumping, so she went to a kid, a good solution. After that I stumbled across a 14.3 hh QH, and I just adore her. Great attitude and decent gaits, although she wouldn't make a competitive dressage horse. The surprising part of this is how hard it is to find a small horse/large pony with a good attitude and good gaits. (And I realize German Riding Ponies are out there, but the price is a tad steep.)

:yes: I've got the great attitude, still looking for that elusive gait. Not that I care, mind you, as I'm still "young" enough to not be _that_ bother by being bounced around. Give me a few years, I may change my tune;)

Sarah

[Satin Filly]

I'm 5' tall and all I ride are ponies! I couldn't see myself buying a horse larger than 14.2 , LOL!

[jme]

My favorite horse at horse camp was a mid-sized pony named Sufi. She was Arabish, mixed with goodness knows what else. I picked her specially due to her size. She was fast and would jump anything, stationary or moving. :D

When we were kids my younger sister's "horse" was actually a large pony. Granted he wasn't a jumper, but he was a nice moving animal and the pair would clean up in the show ring.

Until my TB now, I always rode the littler horses/ ponies. I'm only 5'3" so I think that's why I got "stuck" with them :)

I would never overlook a pony, in fact, I might even look for a pony.
And I would never turn down a nice $700 pony!

The only complaint I have is finding tack that fits... Bridles tend to be too bulky and hide his pretty face and girths are a headache to find in the right size.

I don't know how fashionable it is these days, but I used a rolled bridle (dressage) on my Arab/Swedish WB cross and he looked cute. I think that type of bridle works well for the little horses and bigger ponies.

[Lori B]

I am shopping (god help me), and am 5'5" and stocky, and would happily consider a 15hh horse that has a sturdy build, whose body takes up my leg, etc. I've been riding a very sturdy Morgan, and I love not being so far from the ground. Of course, having said that, I tried a 16'2" ottb yesterday that is now a contender....

NOT SOLICITING! NOT TRYING TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS THREAD! Just commenting on the topic. I am not in the market for fancy gaits, but am in the market for kind and quiet. Ponies can be ornery, god knows.

[Blugal]

I' 5'2 1/2" and have a pony whom I adore! Right now there is a child riding him part time and I am jealous of her... He has a great temperament which I think makes all the difference. Smart, good feet, easy keeper, good looking - but you are right about the trot. Going for a 2 hour trail ride alternating between rising updownupdownupdownupdown or just 2-point. :winkgrin: I think if you take one of those hunting, you just get them super fit and canter everywhere! :lol:

[Perfect Pony]

I am not small (5'6" and 140+ lbs) but I ride a Hony. She's maybe 15.2. Everyone thinks she's a pony, or a part Arab - she's actually a Hanoverian.

At least around here more people are getting into German Riding Ponies, as well as a lot of Halflingers, Icelandics, etc.

[MistyBlue]

I have a 15hh and a 17hh horse. I'm 5'2". I adore, adore, adore ponies. I would love to find a nice scopey pony with reasonable gaits. (no Singer sewing machines, but giant movement not necessary either) I'd never turn down a nice pony and if I were equine shopping the size range would be 13.3 to 15.2hh for optimum fit for me. Those German Riding Ponies are indeed lovely...but I like all ponies.

[clanter]

We don't ride ponies because there aren't any Morgan ponies all Morgans are horses regardless of size. Most of ours are under 14.2H however they appear to be much larger in size.

When shown is open classes that are separated by size we often have been challenged having the horses measured to prove they are under 14.2

[Sassenach]

4'10 and -100lbs - I ride ponies. My family has bred ponies - 2nd generation - I will be 3rd.

I WILL ALWAYS have Ponies!!

LOFF my Connemaras - nothing better~ :D

[Auventera Two]

I'm 5'7" and my girls are 14.1 and 15 hands. I feel most at home on them. I love ponies and small horses. It's like driving a sport car. Neat, quick, precise, responsive, and lightning fast. Riding my mother's warmbloods always felt like maneuvering a semi truck and trailer. I always felt like I'd smack my head on the arena rafters, and your 6 canter strides ate up the diagonal and you were in the other corner already.

No thanks, I love having double the strides down the long side or across the diagonal. Small horses are very challenging, in that the gaits are quick and rapid fire. Tiny little horses/ponies can spin on a dime and give you a nickle change, while the 18 hand ogre is still getting his left front foot on the ground. I love reaching around and scratching my pony's forehead and giving her a little treat after a really hard movement. With the warmbloods, you had to order special, long reins because their darned neck is 18 feet long. It feels like communicating with a person across walmart. You know, yelling and waving and saying "I'm over here! Can you see me!? Can you hear me!?"

[Auventera Two]

but you are right about the trot. Going for a 2 hour trail ride alternating between rising updownupdownupdownupdown or just 2-point. :winkgrin: I think if you take one of those hunting, you just get them super fit and canter everywhere! :lol:

:lol: That's hilarious!! My mares are the same way! We just canter everywhere because the trot is so fast I feel like I can only post every 2 or 3 strides. A good friend of mine grew up with a tiny little Morgan mare. She said she always just did 2-point or canter on trail rides because posting was exhausting.

Yeah, of course when I'm doing ring work, I collect the stride and ask for a nice medium trot (and get it.) But on trail rides when we're keeping up with the pack, it's just better to canter all the time.

[goponies]

God Bless you all!

But you guys seem to be the exception to the rule! I know in the hunter world it's near impossible to ride ponies but how about dressage?
The 13.2h mare I'm riding is a fab little dressage queen (don't you dare tell her otherwise!) but there aren't any others like her and she's not likely to ever be sold. There's no market for her as a children's pony (mom and dad want bigger and something that JUMPS) and there's no market for her as an adult pony (too small say the adults...but she does take the leg in a lovely fashion) Oh well I guess I'll just have to show her in open dressage classes myself! I'll get some looks! Maybe I'll start humming to myself too on the showgrounds just to make things even more interesting!

[Huntertwo]

I'm 5'4 and love my 13.1 POA. She is a bit stocky and I don't look or feel big on her at all. She doesn't have the choppy fast pony gaits.

And she is the best little trail pony. :) Today she and I went out all alone for about 2 hours.

[mp]

No ponies here, but all my horses are between 14.2 and 15h. (I'm 5'4" and some change). I recently went to my first dressage show with my 14.3 gelding. We got a good score and great feedback. My most treasured comment from the judge was "this is a nice picture." I've always thought we looked good together and it was nice to have it made official. :)

[pintopiaffe]

I am 5'4" and *not* small. I need to loose 50 more lbs. (I've lost 50, but battle meds for every ounce <grr> )

I ride a honey I guess. He was sent to me as 15 or 15.1. I tended to believe it, because in the trailer next to the "15h" H U G E Qh mare, his rump was actually higher. Well, neither of them were 15h. :uhoh: I think he's 14.2 or 3. STILL never officially sticked on flat cement.

I love smaller horses, though according to most I should be on a draft cross. I find the smaller guys cheaper to clothe, easier to trailer and house, all around just more economical. Plus, WAY easier to get around a small arena. :yes:

Mine have excellent gaits, and pretty much clean up in SHIH and now undersaddle. As DB said, I find them quite EASY to sit in comparison. Several well regarded BNTs have proclaimed loff for them. I'm not purposely breeding for small size... but I AM purposely breeding for the adult amateur, first-time-foal-owner etc. So rideability and temperament first, competitive gaits next... size is the last thing. Full sibs can be drastically different, so even repeating a cross doesn't guarantee anything size-wise. Long term plans for me include adding Iberian blood, to 'up' the dressage factor without upping the size exponentially.

Part of the problem with finding the small dressage-bred horse, is it seems as if buyers want them w/t/c maybe doign 1st or 2nd etc. Most of us who breed them aren't in a position to keep them (all) that long to get them going. Finding a talented trainer small enough--or just plain willing enough--to work with them can be a challenge.

I think it's great that there are just as many different kinds and types of horses as there are people who love them. I *do* think a rider in the learning stages really does need a mount SUITED to their size... shorter doesn't necessarily mean a good fit--some tiny riders are so small in the hips they can't sit properly on a Fjord or Haffie or a honey built like such... Some quite long and lean tall riders can't ride a huge horse for the same reason. you need to find one that SUITS you.

P.S. Goponies--you campaign that great little mare (I think I saw pics of her on an older thread no?) and get your scores... then you'll be able to move the comma over a couple of places on her price--just market her as a SPORTpony broodie prospect. :winkgrin:

[pintopiaffe]

I am shopping (god help me), and am 5'5" and stocky, and would happily consider a 15hh horse that has a sturdy build, whose body takes up my leg, etc. I've been riding a very sturdy Morgan, and I love not being so far from the ground.

I find this VERY interesting. To me, there seems to be a lack of Big-Little horses.

Growing up there seemed to be a lot of 14-15h horses as wide as they were tall. Sturdy, kind and more athletic than we gave them credit for. These days it seems as if the larges are pretty refined, and even small horses are refined. Sure, we have Fjords and Haffies now, but they are $$$ and not all are suitable for the english disciplines. MANY are--don't get me wrong, but I think they're definitely a step up from what I'm talking about...

I'm considering trying to breed the kind of cob you see much more of in Ireland/UK/Europe. Uh... not to stir pots, but god forbid, I think the GV's are this type. I don't care so much about hair though. :lol: But, good movign, big bodied, sturdy and yet not overly tall. I think a little draft blood --1/8 or 1/4 is probably needed... I've one 1/4 perch mare whom if I didn't keep her trimmed, could probably pass off as a GV. I think she'll finish under 15h. She'll be the starting point.

Just interesting to read it, beacuse I've been thinking it for a long time.

[philosoraptor]

Pros: ponies are for the most part friendly, they let you know right away what's wrong. Ponies are tough, eat barely anything and don't need as much room as a big horse. They also cost less to buy. There's less manure to pick. Don't need a mounting block the size of, well,... a mountain. Don't need an oversize trailer, small is fine. And the list goes on!

Ponies can only support kids and a very lightweight small adult. A horse can support the weight of kids AND adults -- economics. Heck, at some riding schools they're moving up from small horses to huge ones.

Ponies can go laminitic a lot sooner than a horse. Budget in grazing muzzles & careful limited turnout.

Some ponies honestly aren't very nice. Too many people figure since they're small and cute they don't need to learn manners. As a result a well mannered pony is worth his weight in gold, but these aren't cheap.

Some little ponies have problems when they're the little guy in a herd of big horses. Some full sized horses will run the little pony around for fun, and this isn't so good for the pony. You can't totally get rid of the regular horses, so what do you do?

I don't see a barn switching to more ponies tearing out their stalls to make pony-sized stalls. Or selling their normal sized trailer for a "pony" one. By being able to handle larger horses, they will remain more flexible.

Ponies are cute, don't get me wrong. :) They just aren't for everyone, and it doesn't make sense to keep on lots of ponies that are useless for the average adult student.

[MistyBlue]

Another good pony point...they tend to stay sounder for longer. And they last forever. (as most pony people know, evil lasts forever LOL)
My 17hh big boned mare is a very special lady...we really click and I adore her to pieces. However, she's only 18 years old and starting to really get crickety and stiff easily. In the last year she's been much more prone to illnesses and allergies. Weather changes affect her much more than they should/used to. She'll still bounce around in turnout from time to time and move and act like a 4 year old...but I'm noticing her aging more and more from season to season. I've already started warning my husband (who is *extremely* attached to her) that there's a good possibility she won't be one of those horses who stay healthy and going strong into her mid to late twenties. And I think a lot of that has to do with her massive size. 17hh is tall...but many are taller. However...she's huge built and huge boned. This girl last tipped the scales a tad over 1600 lbs. And she's not even close to fat or overweight. Some might say she could use a tad more fat, but that's because she's so big boned that her hips tend to look like they're sticking out. (she has well covered ribs, spine, tail head, etc) Her head from poll to nose is longer than my body from the top of my head to my inseam. She wears a size 4 shoe. She's big. Too big.
Ponies...well they seem to get better as they age. I rode one medium pony ages ago who was in his 30's...and full of piss and vinegar. He lived to his mid 40's. :eek:

[YankeeLawyer]

One of mine is just barely 15.2 but is a big horse otherwise; he is a WB, weighs 1100 pounds, and has a very deep barrel. I am 5'6 with a 32" inseam and do not look big on him; he completely takes up my leg. He also has big gaits, I love the little-big ones. If I were smaller I would love to have a pony.

[Astraled]

Ponies can only support kids and a very lightweight small adult

I don't think the OP is suggesting a fine-boned American Shetland show pony. Most adults can safely ride the average large pony, many would also be fine on a medium.

I have arabs (you must never refer to them as ponies :eek:). The new one is 14.1 and change, the mare was 15h when she was young and fit, the gelding was 14.3 when I last measured him three years ago (he's six now).

[MeredithTX]

I love ponies. :) I have a "hony" of an Andi who is 15.1 on a tall day and compete him in breed shows and dressage. He has a half sister that I would LOVE to have who is 14.2. I rode her some before her owners decided to breed her and she has incredible movement in a very cute little package. I used to ride a lot of big horses, but I find that I fit the honies and ponies better with my short legs and small frame.

[mayhew]

I'm 5'5 and very long legged, and still fit well on a large pony. I love ponies--they're smart, versatile, and so darn cute.

[mayhew]

[QUOTE=pintopiaffe;2023130]
I'm considering trying to breed the kind of cob you see much more of in Ireland/UK/Europe. [QUOTE]

Absolutely. My husband and I are considering the Canadian Horse when we go to buy our own, because they're that sturdy cob type. Very hard to find when the market around here is almost entirely driven by the show circuit, which just isn't going for that right now. But we're looking for solid family horses/honies who have some talent as well, and I don't imagine we're the only ones.

[flypony74]

I am a small adult and ride a 14.3hh "hony." When I was horse shopping I specifically did not want anything over 15hh. I am an average lower level amateur event rider who has no desire to do the upper levels, so I certainly didn't need a horse capable of doing that either. I wanted something sensible, athletic and fun, and that is what I got. He doesn't have huge gaits, but always scores well in dressage, and is a good little jumper.

Here we are warming up at an event this summer:
http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2103792500048526821cryTZr

Personally, I LOVE the little guys, and really don't want to ride anything else!

[nightsong]

I love ponies.

[murphyluv]

hehe.. my horse is currently the smallest horse at a dressage barn. He's 14.3, I'm 5'4". I didn't do it intentionally, but I fell in love with his personality. However, if I was serious about jumping, I probably would have gotten something a little bit bigger. Nothing like having a longer neck in front of you. If a pony stops its much harder to stay on... haha.
Lendon Gray took a pony to FEI levels... yeah I can dream on.

[Mao]

Another advocate of the 'little-big guys'.

Five years ago, when I first started my struggles with dressage, I owned a 16.1 hand TB/Percheron (1/4) gelding - with the temperament of a blessed saint. But, holy goodness - I SO struggled with 'on-the-bit' with him. He was a tank - for someone my size - short-legged 5'1". It was so frustrating.

Then we got a 14.2 hand Nokota gelding for my daughter. In almost every single respect - the Nokota's size and movement was SOOOO much easier for me.

I ended up selling my blessed saint of big horse, and bought a 14.2 hand Andalusian gelding. And, in fact, because my big horse was well... a big horse... I sold him for more than I paid for my purebred but small Andalusian.

I later bought a 15 hand blue roan Nokota gelding. In some respects, he's an even better fit for me - because he's more narrow. We fit perfectly.

Anyway, I can't imagine going back to the over 16 hand variety. I am middle-aged adult rider and I'm just more confident in every way on my smaller (though often more fiery) horses. And, fwiw, in regards to competitiveness, both Andalusian and Nokota have placed a few times over warmbloods at modest little schooling dressage shows I occasionally dabble in!

Pictures...
My 14.2 hand Andalusian - nothing 'small' about him!
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y132/TeamNokota/HHchotrotwarmup.jpg

My 15 hand blue roan Nokota gelding
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y132/TeamNokota/Kentucky%20Horse%20Park%202006/KHPteaser002.jpg

Me on my daughter's 14.2 hand Nokota gelding...
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y132/TeamNokota/maochico.jpg

[Daydream Believer]

Ponies can only support kids and a very lightweight small adult. A horse can support the weight of kids AND adults -- economics. Heck, at some riding schools they're moving up from small horses to huge ones.

Not all of them. Our colonial spanish horses can pack some serious weight and they can do it every day and be sound into their 20's. What "horse" do you think won the west packing the cowboys and all their rigging...not to mention the Conquistadors and their armor. Some of the dainty breeds, I'll buy that they are limited by weight carrying ability, but my little horses have more bone and substance than many 16 handers. I see many other sturdy ponies and small horses that I'd have no issues putting 250 lbs on. My little 13:3 hand BLM mustang packed that much weight around for a weekend on 5 hour trail rides easily.

The funniest thing is though is how many monster sized horses I see packing around tiny little people who could easily ride a pony. It seems like I see way more people mounted on horses too big than I ever seen undermounted...at least in english disciplines. I see lots of tall cowboys riding little 14:2 hand reiners and cutters and that is the norm for them.

Ponies can go laminitic a lot sooner than a horse. Budget in grazing muzzles & careful limited turnout.

Again...don't confuse your pony breeds here with the modern sport ponies. Some are little air ferns but many of the larger crossbreds or small horse breeds that are not true ponies do not have much of an issue with this. I have 25 "horses" under 14:3-15 hands living on pasture 24/7 and no laminitis or problems at all. They probably could eat themselves to death if giving over lush pasture but no where near as fast as a shetland or the classic cobby types.

[Satin Filly]

I really hope one day they will allow adults to do the pony jumpers! Or make more divisions in the hunter world where adults can ride a pony in the show ring. I wish I were still a jr :cry: !
I think more ponies need (experienced, but small of course) adults on them, just because a 10 yr old can ride it, doesn't mean they can keep it properly schooled, agree? I've seen too many ponies constantly allowed to get away with murder because some kids just aren't capable of correcting it.

That's basically my job at the barn, I school all the ponies, but I wish I could give em' a good ride in the show ring as well.

I know the Welsh shows have adult classes, but not all of the ponies at the barn are welsh, and there aren't enough Welsh shows in my area.

[carp]

I miss my pony. I bought him with the idea that he'd be safe enough to take hubby on some trail rides. The little guy is pretty bombproof, has a comfy trot, and corners like a sports car when you need him to. Guess who's riding the pony full time now?:sadsmile:

[mayhew]

I really hope one day they will allow adults to do the pony jumpers! Or make more divisions in the hunter world where adults can ride a pony in the show ring. I wish I were still a jr :cry: !
I think more ponies need (experienced, but small of course) adults on them, just because a 10 yr old can ride it, doesn't mean they can keep it properly schooled, agree? I've seen too many ponies constantly allowed to get away with murder because some kids just aren't capable of correcting it.

Amen.

[murphyluv]

as far as ponies carrying more weight, I definitely agree that sometimes they can carry far more weight. I wouldn't ask a pony to jump with a 200 lb person, however.
I worked as a trail guide at a camp. We had 2 draft horses, a couple stocky quarter horses, and some real stocky quarter pony and halflinger type ponies, large ponies. I found it was often easier to put the (and not to be mean here) egg shaped larger people on the smaller stocky qh's and ponies, b/c they simply did not have the fitness level to get up on a small draft horse (small Clydesdale) w/out squashing me. The ponies and qh's were just fine and seemed to actually have less issues carrying them than the drafts (I think b/c the amount of tork on saddle to get someone on). As they get older though, I certainly decrease the amount of weight I would expect them to carry...
I've also heard their cannon bone needs to be 7 in. around...apparently that can determine weight load.

[HiJumpGrrl]

I event a welsh cob cross who is 15hh on a big hair day. I am 5'8" with a 33 or 34 inch inseam. I hope to move up to Training with her in the coming year. Here we are at our first event together in March:
http://hoofclix.smugmug.com/gallery/1311423/1/61820965

[YankeeLawyer]

I am a small adult and ride a 14.3hh "hony." When I was horse shopping I specifically did not want anything over 15hh. I am an average lower level amateur event rider who has no desire to do the upper levels, so I certainly didn't need a horse capable of doing that either. I wanted something sensible, athletic and fun, and that is what I got. He doesn't have huge gaits, but always scores well in dressage, and is a good little jumper.

Here we are warming up at an event this summer:
http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2103792500048526821cryTZr

Personally, I LOVE the little guys, and really don't want to ride anything else!

He is indeed a good little jumper! What a nice looking boy!

[YankeeLawyer]

I event a welsh cob cross who is 15hh on a big hair day. I am 5'8" with a 33 or 34 inch inseam. I hope to move up to Training with her in the coming year. Here we are at our first event together in March:
http://hoofclix.smugmug.com/gallery/1311423/1/61820965

She is lovely also! You guys make a nice pair. I can't believe she is only 15 hands!

[MistyBlue]

Mao and FlyPony...please send those lovely 4 footed Christmas presents to my little farmette in Connecticut. They'd all fit loverly under my tree! :yes:

[pintopiaffe]

Flypony--WHAT is your guy's breeding? Yo Quiero MUCHO!

Mao--what is your Andi's breeding? Sire & dam?

Not to be outdone, this is my guy. I am a BIG girl. I will look better on him 50lbs from now, but he has not a minute's trouble with me as I am, God bless him.
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/pintopiaffe/sons%20of%20the%20wind%20show/holycowtrot.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/pintopiaffe/sons%20of%20the%20wind%20show/softwalk.jpg

[SLW]

I've always said that it takes Brass Ovaries to ride a pony at age 47 and admit it. There, I've said it. :) Wouldn't trade my 14.2 (farrier says she is 14.1) equine for the world.

[Huntertwo]

I event a welsh cob cross who is 15hh on a big hair day. I am 5'8" with a 33 or 34 inch inseam. I hope to move up to Training with her in the coming year. Here we are at our first event together in March:
http://hoofclix.smugmug.com/gallery/1311423/1/61820965 (http://hoofclix.smugmug.com/gallery/1311423/1/61820965)

Ahhh she is so cute! Little horse, big heart :yes:

[Huntertwo]

I've always said that it takes Brass Ovaries to ride a pony at age 47 and admit it. There, I've said it. :) Wouldn't trade my 14.2 (farrier says she is 14.1) equine for the world.


Hey SLW, I'm 46 and my pony is 13.1 There, I'm out of the closet...lol :lol:
And, I wouldn't trade her for anything!!!

[goponies]

Wish I could share a photo of my girl so you could all see her! I'm not allowed to post attachments...E-mail me if if you want to see my beauty!

[Satin Filly]

You could always post a link if you have the photo uploaded to a site! We'd love to see her!

[siseley]

:winkgrin: ;)
Here is my mare who is only barely 14.2 and that is stretching the tape. I am 60 yrs old, and at 160lbs, she has NO PROBLEM carrying me around for our 20 mile and more rides. My rides frequently have rocky hills, deep sand, and lots of altitude, so small can do the job!!

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h84/siseley/LindaandSteveatmontanaDeOro2.jpg

[Pocket Pony]

Ok, now I think we should all post pictures of our honys/ponies!

Here's Miles (and my sig has another picture of him also) http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/1370017331029199246PHuZmM on a trail ride, which is our favorite thing to do together.

And here's Paddy and I, at an event last year http://pets.webshots.com/photo/1449345287029199246pIiPDy

Miles is maybe 15.2 and Paddy is maybe 15.1. Both are capable, athletic, and FUN!!! Miles does have a shorter gait, but Paddy has huge gaits - no difference between him and a bigger horse. I'm only 5'4", and look - my leg doesn't even come all the way down their barrells!

My first horse as an adult was 17hh or so...then my next horse was 16.2...then Miles. That's why he's the Pocket Pony - because he was my first small horse - he'd fit in my pocket!

I have absolutely no desire for a horse over 15.3. Heck, I'd LOVE to have a pony. Of course, that would require me getting another horse because neither of my two guys will ever be for sale!

[YankeeLawyer]

Not to be outdone, this is my guy. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/pintopiaffe/sons%20of%20the%20wind%20show/holycowtrot.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/pintopiaffe/sons%20of%20the%20wind%20show/softwalk.jpg

OMG he is so cute! This thread is great.

[IndianaJones3394]

Also, pony classes are:

For small ponies- 12 and under
For medium ponies- 14 and under
For large ponies- 17 and under

So the adults can't show in the specified pony classes.

[YankeeLawyer]

Here are pics of my 15.2 hand guy, by Benvolio:

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/holsteinsw1/Sam/th_ArabellaandSam--Informal002.jpg (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/holsteinsw1/Sam/ArabellaandSam--Informal002.jpg)
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/holsteinsw1/Sam/th_ArabellaandSam--Corkum100.jpg (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/holsteinsw1/Sam/ArabellaandSam--Corkum100.jpg)
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/holsteinsw1/Sam/th_ArabellaandSam--Corkum080.jpg (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/holsteinsw1/Sam/ArabellaandSam--Corkum080.jpg)
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/holsteinsw1/Sam/th_ArabellaandSam--Corkum050.jpg (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r85/holsteinsw1/Sam/ArabellaandSam--Corkum050.jpg)

[IndianaJones3394]

http://i11.tinypic.com/30lijgh.jpg

My little guy is 15.2 and has the shortest stride!


http://i12.tinypic.com/29cmky8.jpg

http://i14.tinypic.com/44hzupx.jpg

[SLW]

Hey SLW, I'm 46 and my pony is 13.1 There, I'm out of the closet...lol :lol:
And, I wouldn't trade her for anything!!!

Where is the photo?? ;) Here is mine from a 30 mile limited distance ride last spring- heading out to do the last 10 mile loop.: http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2074576930052639572dxwEkk

I always figured some 12 year old horse crazy girl is having a miserable childhood cuz I'm riding her pony. ;) FTR, I bought her for $600, won $380 riding her in a poker ride the following year. Net cost: $280. I can't get out of the local tack store for less than that.

[Sakura]

The only time I ever felt hurt was when a judge in an in hand class said ~oh, he's just a pony~. It was at a breed show and my guy is within the breed standard (somewhat... 14.2 hh-15.1 hh with some above and some below), so his height really should not have been held against him, but we don't live in a perfect world...

This is my pony (http://s58.photobucket.com/albums/g278/Copperleaf/?action=view&current=ShenandoahClassic4Canter.jpg)

Another (http://s58.photobucket.com/albums/g278/Copperleaf/?action=view&current=ShenandoahClassicCanterLeft.jpg)

My Favorite (http://s58.photobucket.com/albums/g278/Copperleaf/?action=view&current=ShenandoahClassicStrongCanter.jpg)

[michelle03048]

I'm 5'4" and I ride a 14.1 QH mare. I'm on the hunt for my next horse, my old girl is getting up there in years (she's 24) and I told my trainer not to show me anything that's over 15 HH. Maybe 15.1 if it's the most perfect horse in the world ;)

I like my horses short, that way if I fall off I'm closer to the ground:lol:

[goponies]

here she is!!! Hope the link works!

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r154/goponies/Fleurtte.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r154/goponies/fleurtrotsept.jpg

[Sakura]

here she is!!! Hope the link works!

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r154/goponies/Fleurtte.jpg

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r154/goponies/fleurtrotsept.jpg

She is a cutie!

[pAin't_Misbehavin']

I don't know if I'm a small adult, at 5'9"/145 lbs, but pAin't Misbehavin' is only about 14.2 hh on a tall day. He's blessed with plenty of bone, wide shoulders (and a gi-normous QH butt:winkgrin: ) and has never complained about carrying me.

We don't pretend to the A circuit, but my trainer has ridden him in schooling shows over fences. He looks about a foot shorter than the great towering TB's in his classes - and appears quite diminutive with those great big ol' blue rosettes on his bridle.:cool:

My older horse, the Clydie cross, is only about 15 hh (and about that wide:D ). I get nosebleeds up any higher.

My dream horse would be a Fjord.:yes:

[nightsong]

As an adult, I've had three horses: a 13.3 hand half-Arab; a 15.1 Saddlebred-type Morgan, and a Thoroughbred who, if you took off the excess wither, would be 15 hands on a tall day. I felt comfortable on all three, but the one time I rode a 13.2 pony (I'm 5'5"), it felt like "home". I rode and showed a 13 hand pony as a teenager (I reached my full height between 7th and 8th grades) and had the BESTEST TIME.

[arabhorse2]

I guess my horses could be considered ponies if you're going by height alone, but since they're Arabs, they qualify as horses. :D

I like small horses, and since I'm only 5'1", it's much easier to mount a 14.2 h wee beastie than a 17.1 h monster! :lol:

[clpony]

I event a 14.2 pony and absolutely love him!!
He's so catty!~!
Thrilled to have him when I come off........not so far to the ground.
I will always have something at this size/really have no desire for anything above 15 hands.
Wish there were more wonderful ones out there...

[OnyxThePony]

I adore ponies. At 5'7", I may look a bit big, but I can also look big on 16.3.. it's such an odd perspective, the human:horse ratio :lol:
My last 'horse' was a 14 or 14.2 Hh pony who I just adored (that would be Onyx) but she just didn't work out for me when it came to riding. Not size-wise, but our attitude just didnt' match.
My current is maybe 15 Hh or so? Not athletic.. that's not what I need at this point. I've been in a terrible car accident and really can't ride the way I used to! But athletic enough to go around jumping one day, chase the cows the next, throw in a half pass the next.
I think most people are riding unsuitable horses, because they are still novices riding off the ideal of horses, not the reality of horses. So, the bigger, the more wild/free/noble/high-steppin/expensive/enviable/etc the better.
I still am a professional horseperson, therefor much of my idealism of horses and the biz has been shattered :lol: .... hence.... I"m soooooo happy with my little non-impressive horse that is right now, perfect for me.

I look odd in this picture.. my legs are not twisted from the accident, that is a trick of the camera! But here we are just after I bought her (for $500 and the aforementioned pony):
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a89/PondDucks/Apr2006158.jpg?t=1164740397

[Mtn trails]

I've got the most wonderful pony. She's a registered QH and just 14.2 and is by far and away the nicest horse I've ever owned. Thistle came from a feedlot destined for slaughter and has just bloomed in the last few months. I can't go anywhere with her without people commenting on what a sweetheart she is and is going to really be a force to be reckoned with when she's fully broke.

Thistle a.k.a Wampin Jackiestraw:
then:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v616/mustangrider2/thistle2.jpg
Now:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v616/mustangrider2/thistle2.jpg

I haven't bought a normal sized horse in 10 years and that's my QH Woodrow who clocks in at 15.3. I adore him but I'll never buy another one that big and he's not really that big. I love my little horses - much easier to get off and get on, closer to the ground. I plan on showing Thistle next year in some intro classes in dressage or maybe even jump her a bit.

[murphyluv]

Here's my munchkin... my staff and i dressed up as the village people for a staff photo, that's why we're dressed up.
http://new.photos.yahoo.com/sbctango/album/576460762341814509/photo/294928803784375774/8

[mosmom]

I'm 5'5" and I sometimes ride my sons' 14.2 hand pony. I even got to show him once. Here's are pic:
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f45/ksox/Fallseries06058.jpg

[Windswept Stable]

Another vote for ponies here!! We love them! My daughters are 17 and 19 -- show them til they absolutely outage..and still ride them all the time. They woud like junior/adult hunters--- but they have 12 ponies instead!!!
Training ponies need a good ride! You can see our ponies at our website!

[redponyrider]

I don't know about PONIES, but a lot of adults ride "small horses"-- arabs, QHs, Morgans. My 14.2 hh arab has the most comfortable gaits, is catty and agile, and has a horse-sized stride down those hunter lines.
After watching a short (sure wasn't little) halfinger smoke the tall horses at an event once, I think prejudice against short equines as mounts for serious competitors is completely unjustified.

[belleellis]

I saw your hony on the draft discussion. I love him. So handsome!

[Just My Style]

:mad: I responded to this thread a few days ago and I guess it got sucked in to the black hole of cyberworld. :mad:

I am 5'4 and my husband is 5'3. I bought myself the Plow Beast a few years back and he was only about 15.2. Perfect. Well, 3 years and good groceries later and he toppped off at 16h+. You often hear of people outgrowing horses, but how often do the horses outgrow the people? What are you going to do? I love him, so I just bought a bigger mounting block. Really, I only wanted a hony. ;)

When he needed a friend, we had a hard time finding a good fit. We didn't want anything too big (meaning over 15h) and all the ponies we found were under 13h. Too small. Then we found Guinevere. She is a 14h Haflinger and PERFECT size for both of us. We both like her so much that we will sometimes argue over who gets to ride her. AND she is great for my son. Still pony enough to not be scary, but big enough that he won't outgrow her any time soon.

So yes, there are adults who ride ponies. :yes:

[lawndart]

She is a short, compact QH, something under 14h. Don't know exactly, don't care. She is perfect for me, I'm 5'2" on a good day. I love, love the big horses in many ways, but not when I'm trying to mount from the ground, duck under trees, or 'go where no man has gone before' as my trail riding buddy calls it.

In fact, when I was searching for a horse, my only requirements were that it had the three S's, short (under 14.2) sound and sane. Willow is all three :D I really was looking for a plain gelding, but she caught my eye, because of her eyes.....A short, sane, sound Palomino of all things. Almost didn't look at her because she was loud colored, but my daughter pointed out that being color biased against flash was as bad as being biased for flash! Thankfully, the seller was completely honest about her temperament, abilities and training.

Like someone else said, I often wonder if there isn't a kid out there somewhere wondering if they will ever find that perfect Palomino pony they have been longing for.....Sorry! This short middle aged chickenlivered rider needs her more then you, go find ANOTHER horse! :D

[pony4me]

I'm 51 years old, 5 feet tall, and ride a 14.1 Welsh/Morgan cross. We show frequently, and sometimes beat the big guys. Sometimes not. I think as riders age, and want to keep riding, we will see more smaller adults switch to ponies.

[LSM1212]

I would if I didn't look like a dork. I'm 5'9" and have a long leg. So I look silly on ponies. :D

[Showponymom Aefvue Mid Atlantic Division]

Believe it or not you can show a large pony in the AA's. As long as you look good suitability wise and they can get down the line for 3' at the horse strides. But most larges that do the regulars would have no problem with that.

I am 46, 5' and I ride my daughters top of the line small with no problem and we have a lot of fun. Go watch the ponies school and see how many small pro riders are tuning them up. Lots of adults ride ponies.

[Wellspotted]

I'd love to have a pony! A nice cobby-looking pony with healthy roundish hooves. A pony I could mount in a pinch without a mounting block. A pony whose back I could look down at, or at least on a level with, to groom. A pony whose saddle I could look down the gullet of to see how it's fitting. A pony close to the ground.


I just don't get the fascination with huge horses. I don't dislike them; I just don't get the attraction. Hard to mount, hard to groom, a long way to dismount from, take huge bridles and girths and shoes. Just ... inconvenient.

[Huntertwo]

I just don't get the fascination with huge horses. I don't dislike them; I just don't get the attraction. Hard to mount, hard to groom, a long way to dismount from, take huge bridles and girths and shoes. Just ... inconvenient.

And don't forget, a long way to fall from....lol :lol:

[gdolapp]

I am 5'2 been riding all my life. the largest horse I have ever owned
was an appendix at 16.3 the smallest that I have ridden besides little ponies
when I was a kid was a 13.1 mustang/welch cross and now I ride
a 15 hand pony. Yep I said 15 hand pony. My appy gelding is actually
an over height POA both sire and dam are papered POA.
Someday I will own my dream horse "I want a Clydesdale"

[audgesmom]

I am 5'3 and thankful!!!! I have haffies and wouldn't ride anything else...

[Satin Filly]

Here's my 3 y.o half Welsh filly (Just shy of 13.1 hands).


http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a344/GTOGIRL3000/Mya/DSCN1011R.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a344/GTOGIRL3000/Mya/DSCN0823CRGrey.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a344/GTOGIRL3000/Mya/DSCN1047R.jpg

(Yes I know my saddle is too small for me now (bummer) but it fits the ponies soooo well. I love my Beval Jr. ;) )

[goponies]

So basically, from what I read here, most of you ride large ponies or slightly larger honies. Right?
What about in the 13 to 13.3h range, what puts you off these guys? Besides the trottrottrottrottrot? because some of these medium ponie can actually trot without jarring you out of the saddle. Not many but they're out there!

[SarhasMom]

I'm so in love with your guy!!! what a beauty. I'd love for my girl to meet your guy. ;)

wanted to share my little girl along with everyone else. I'm 5'1" on a normal day, she is almost 14.1. I loff her to death but would never tell her she is a pony, it's an arab thing I guess.

I love the size but sometimes big bombs come in small packages. The way she can move has dismounted me more times than not.

http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j298/matislia/misc021.jpg


Then I have a 12.2 pony that is more than capable of carrying me around for short periods of time, probably more. She is an awesome little pony. Took her 'off' someone hands for a whopping $400. No training but she is coming along great. Nothing spooks her and she is so loving and sweet. Took her to a clinic and had an offer to buy her on the spot. She's not beautiful and her profile is a little romanesque, but she's a beauty to me.

Conchetta
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j298/matislia/103_0337.jpg

[A. P.]

I for one envy those who can ride ponies without looking ridiculous. I am 5'10 and look/feel most comfortable on a 16hh or taller, wide-bodied horse. But the older I get, the stronger gravity becomes and the harder it is to mount, so the next horse I buy (if and when I am ever solvent enough to get another) will probably be about 15.2.

[jhopeful]

So basically, from what I read here, most of you ride large ponies or slightly larger honies. Right?
What about in the 13 to 13.3h range, what puts you off these guys? Besides the trottrottrottrottrot? because some of these medium ponie can actually trot without jarring you out of the saddle. Not many but they're out there!


My girl is 13.2 - 13.3. I am 5'2" and fit her pretty well, but only because she is a stocky little thing with a round barrel that really takes up my leg. I would be too long legged for a more finely built welsh type pony. I think I would be fine on any stocky pony such as a haflinger, quarter pony, etc. Weight wise, I wouldn't hesitate to go with something down to 13hh or maybe even down to 12.2hh, it just isn't the prettiest picture.

I love ponies, I feel lucky to be short enough to ride them. And once you get used to about 150+ppm (posts per minute), I don't even mind the choppy little pony trots. They make the big horses feel slow and lethargic :winkgrin:

[Little Indian]

I am 5' and I still have my large pony (who is a solid 14.2 on his very very very tippy toes), but when I was getting ready to age out of ponies, I wanted something a bit more competitive (that wouldn't throw in a stop just because he didn't feel like jumping that day). So I got my horse. See, we did a very stupid thing, we bought him straight off a video from an agent in Belgium. He was advertised as 16.1, but when he got here, he was not 16.1. Gomez is 16.3/17 hands, but thankfully mostly legs and the sweetest horse in the world! I love being able to lope down the lines (that is when I am not falling off and getting a concussion because we had too much stride!) and not have to worry about getting out. Pony's trot is terrible because he doesn't believe in knee action and goes around like a little soldier, while I could sit Gomez's for hours. I have to believe that if Gomez was any other horse, I would have probably sold him right away, because 17 hands is just too big for somebody my height.

[farmgirl88]

haha i'm glad someone asked this. Im a junior, but only for about 2 more days and i just recently moved to horses this past august. I have been riding and bringing along pony hunters since the age of 6. I rode horses on and off, depended on what barn i rode at at what point in time. My family now breeds Section B Welsh ponies and we have a total of 3 full size horses on the property and 7 ponies. I was just thinking the other night about how much im going to miss showing the ponies all the time. I mean, i love my horses and i love riding horses, but it's just not the same for me. I may look like an idiot at pony finals this yr because ithink i was the oldest rider, and i should technically be on a horse...but riding the ponies is where my heart is at. I'm just a tad over 5'....so i can ride ponies of any size with barely any major issues. I'm thinking im going to well -up in tears once i finally realize i can only ride/show my ponies at the welsh shows now. Kind of sux to be honest. I know if ponies were aloud in theadult rings....guess where i'd be????

[Sassenach]

haha i'm glad someone asked this. Im a junior, but only for about 2 more days and i just recently moved to horses this past august. I have been riding and bringing along pony hunters since the age of 6. I rode horses on and off, depended on what barn i rode at at what point in time. My family now breeds Section B Welsh ponies and we have a total of 3 full size horses on the property and 7 ponies. I was just thinking the other night about how much im going to miss showing the ponies all the time. I mean, i love my horses and i love riding horses, but it's just not the same for me. I may look like an idiot at pony finals this yr because ithink i was the oldest rider, and i should technically be on a horse...but riding the ponies is where my heart is at. I'm just a tad over 5'....so i can ride ponies of any size with barely any major issues. I'm thinking im going to well -up in tears once i finally realize i can only ride/show my ponies at the welsh shows now. Kind of sux to be honest. I know if ponies were aloud in theadult rings....guess where i'd be????


You have no idea how much I feel your pain - just turned 18 and now am no longer a "pony" rider at least in shows. Which is REALLY sad because I will never top 4'10 unless in major heels.

I want to ride my ponies!

I don't wanna ride the big horses!

Trainer put me on a 17.3 horse one day at a show it looked like something you'd see in a comic. I could stand under that horses head with him just holding it normally and with room to spare.

My studly does look a bit odd packing me around because he's 14.2 and built like a tank I have a picture of me trotting him and I swear he looks 16 hands because the angle has his withers appearing higher than my head and I have long legs for my height.

Love my ponies my girl back at home in Ireland is a 13.3 wide-bodied Connemara mare and my new up-coming girly is a 14 hand Connemara filly built pretty dainty and looks perfect with me.

There needs to be more small horses/riding oppurtunies rather than just breed shows here in the States. In Ireland there are 2 jumping height requirements 12.2 and unders and 12.3 - 14.2 jumpers - you hit 14.3 well you are jumping with the big boys now (14.3-15.2 :winkgrin: ) ! You don't really see the huge 17+ handers as much in Europe my theory is they know the Americans love the bigger-is-better mentality and ship them over keeping the normal sized horses.

Not to say I haven't seen a 17+ hander - our friend hunts on a 17.3 hand ISH but there are tons more oppurtunities for small horses/riders in Ireland I must say.

[Just My Style]

So basically, from what I read here, most of you ride large ponies or slightly larger honies. Right?
What about in the 13 to 13.3h range, what puts you off these guys? Besides the trottrottrottrottrot? because some of these medium ponie can actually trot without jarring you out of the saddle. Not many but they're out there!

Nothing really. For all I know, the haffie could stick 13.3. I guess 14h, because she seems taller than my first pony that was 13h. I never measured her. I just liked her, she came home, that was it. I really could care less about size. :)

[Sakura]

I'm so in love with your guy!!! what a beauty. I'd love for my girl to meet your guy. ;)

wanted to share my little girl along with everyone else. I'm 5'1" on a normal day, she is almost 14.1. I loff her to death but would never tell her she is a pony, it's an arab thing I guess.

I love the size but sometimes big bombs come in small packages. The way she can move has dismounted me more times than not.

http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j298/matislia/misc021.jpg


Then I have a 12.2 pony that is more than capable of carrying me around for short periods of time, probably more. She is an awesome little pony. Took her 'off' someone hands for a whopping $400. No training but she is coming along great. Nothing spooks her and she is so loving and sweet. Took her to a clinic and had an offer to buy her on the spot. She's not beautiful and her profile is a little romanesque, but she's a beauty to me.

Conchetta
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j298/matislia/103_0337.jpg

SarhasMom,

Thank you :).

Your ponies are adorable too. The grey looks like a real love bug and the chestnut looks so sweet, you got a deal on her.

[OnyxThePony]

WHOLEY CATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

She might just actually BE a pony!!!! My little roan, I mean. Well that will just kick A$$ !!!!!!!!!!!
Funny, I never thought to measure her...... untill now...

[hluing]

Well I breed German Riding Ponies and since my oldest foal is coming three...I will soon be riding them too. German Riding Ponies have big gaits ideal for dressage and alot of scope over fences. They also have very good temperments and are not in anyway like a steriotypical pony (except size of course) Yes, they are somewhat expensive (like WB's are...generations of selective breeding does have its costs)...particularly if you have to import them (tack on 7-15k for importation alone)...but more and more breeders are producing them in the US now. So, if you want a GRP...look for some of the US breeders producing exceptional foals and get a bargain:)

Pony Power!

[GreyDun]

Did anyone read the lovely article in the pony breeding issue about sport ponies (and the commentary, too) *ahem*?

I'm 5'3" and reguarly compete ponies. I've been competing my mare in Training level and children's/adult jumpers and most of the time I'm the only one on a pony in the division. Now, I'm not a junior, so I couldn't show her in the pony hunters like I used to, and practically as far as I can see and with loads of research, adults can compete ponies in loads of disciplines! I do believe taht the "baby boomer" market is hugely into the ponies... for lots of reasons. Read the articles and you'll know why. :winkgrin:

Connemaras are my forte and I'm throwing in a picture of my mare and I competing at the AECs for good measure (we were the only ponies in my training level division).

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h74/EmilyDaily/_KIT5057.jpg

Trust me... this pony and many Connemaras do not have "pony gaits" and can easily get down the lines. With comfort too!

Here's her 2 yo daughter by our stallion. She also DOES NOT have "pony gaits". Don't underestimate the ponies, if you're small (like me!) it just makes sense! :D

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h74/EmilyDaily/tagbabies029.jpg

[hluing]

[QUOTE=GreyDun;2032469]Did anyone read the lovely article in the pony breeding issue about sport ponies (and the commentary, too) *ahem*?

Whisch article was this? In chronicle? If so, nope I have not gotten a chance to get a copy. Can you summerize? What is the commentary that you mentioned?
Thanks

[ironbessflint]

I've got all y'all beat!!

http://s11.photobucket.com/albums/a183/syoung78/20060719/?action=view&current=2.jpg

(not me in the pic, but I have also ridden this pony!!) She sticks at 8.3 hands :)

Oh wait, you said small adults on ponies, not adults on small ponies...

In all seriousness though, I'm such a pony addict. That's really what I feel most comfortable on. And I'm so hooked on haffies right now - they're really just like hairy warmbloods. Movement, selective breeding, all of that. And of course their great temperment. And a price tag I can actually afford ;)

[GreyDun]

Here's the articles... I hope you can see them!

http://www.chronofhorse.com/index.php?cat=40311030495963&nav=Top&z_get_Article_ID=102732642472520&search_type=Issue&Archive_Month=11

http://www.chronofhorse.com/index.php?cat=40311030495963&nav=Top&z_get_Article_ID=102732642478940&search_type=Issue&Archive_Month=11

Irinbessflint –––– LOVED the pics! too funny! :)

[Midge]

I've often wondered why thare aren't more adults riding ponies. I'm 5`2`` and was put on behemoths when I was taking lessons. One was 18 hands!!!! And I never had fun riding one of those giants...


Because we know there is something between 14.2hh and 18hh.

[Midge]

That's basically my job at the barn, I school all the ponies, but I wish I could give em' a good ride in the show ring as well.



Why can't you? There are oodles of unrated divisions, many open to any horse/rider combination.

[suz]

i'd like to hear more discussion about which pony breeds have the biggest,loftiest gaits. i've got a pony collection started, with a barn almost full with a pair of haffies,a 14'2 mustang and a 15'1 arab/draft cross. they all fit so nicely in my little barn and are so fun for trails and driving. i'm not small at 5'7 and 180 lbs,but i only feel big on the smallest haflinger. i'm taking a break from lessons this year and spending tons of time hacking and occasionally jumping small logs,and trying to use the principles i've learned from dressage.
eventually i'll go back into training ,and of course i'll need another pony when i do,so i'd like to hear more opinions about which pony breeds excell at the those comfy gaits. i loved the smooth rocking horse canter of my big saddlebred (rip),and have been on a 17 hand perch/paint that had an incredible lofty trot. that's what i want in my next pony,without losing the handiness and personality traits of the pony. i particularly apprciate the combination of a drafty/cooler head plus pony antics. mine are sensible,darn near bomb-proof and forward enough to be fun. only the mustang is too pokey for me(go figure!) while the haffies and arab/ctross are eager to get going.
edited to add that new pony must also be comfy bareback!

[kari]

Add me to the list of adults who ride ponies. I just bought a lovely 13.3 Morgan mare. A horse, i know, but pony size! I just love the big guys, my retired guy, Woody, is a 17h Hanoverian, who has been retired for 4 years now. I bought a Percheron as my next horse, as a 2 year old, and by the time he was 4, he was 17.2h. I am little, 5'1, and had a heck of a time getting on him. I then was in a car accident, and found out that I had the bones of a 50+ year old, and was likely to shatter if I fell off or got had a bad fall. The Perch is now the mount of a 6'4 gentleman in Vermont, and they are the perfect match.
My new little mare is the perfect match for me, she loves to trail ride, will go through anything, loves the cross country stuff, will jump the moon, and even drives. I plan on teaching her some low level dressage this spring.
My daughter's mare is 14.3 and is a little wonder girl too. Versatile, fun, and just the right size.

[Sakura]

i'd like to hear more discussion about which pony breeds have the biggest,loftiest gaits. i've got a pony collection started, with a barn almost full with a pair of haffies,a 14'2 mustang and a 15'1 arab/draft cross. they all fit so nicely in my little barn and are so fun for trails and driving. i'm not small at 5'7 and 180 lbs,but i only feel big on the smallest haflinger. i'm taking a break from lessons this year and spending tons of time hacking and occasionally jumping small logs,and trying to use the principles i've learned from dressage.
eventually i'll go back into training ,and of course i'll need another pony when i do,so i'd like to hear more opinions about which pony breeds excell at the those comfy gaits. i loved the smooth rocking horse canter of my big saddlebred (rip),and have been on a 17 hand perch/paint that had an incredible lofty trot. that's what i want in my next pony,without losing the handiness and personality traits of the pony. i particularly apprciate the combination of a drafty/cooler head plus pony antics. mine are sensible,darn near bomb-proof and forward enough to be fun. only the mustang is too pokey for me(go figure!) while the haffies and arab/ctross are eager to get going.
edited to add that new pony must also be comfy bareback!

Look into Connemaras, German Riding Ponies or Welsh crosses. All are bred to be rideable and athletic with out putting too much distance between your bum and the ground :).

[nightsong]

My 13.3 quarab (Arab quarter-type cross) had GREAT gaits; so smooth you didn't NEED to post. Nice and long and LOW. Great SHOULDER, too.

[undersaddle]

So my mustang will probably end up being somewhere between14.1-14.3 (Which is fine because I am 5'1".) Since she is a horse I can still show her A/O, as an adult right (even though the WB's and T.B's will tower me)? I know I would be able to event her and do dressage, but what about hunter-jumpers?
Thanks guys.

[Sassenach]

Did anyone read the lovely article in the pony breeding issue about sport ponies (and the commentary, too) *ahem*?

I'm 5'3" and reguarly compete ponies. I've been competing my mare in Training level and children's/adult jumpers and most of the time I'm the only one on a pony in the division. Now, I'm not a junior, so I couldn't show her in the pony hunters like I used to, and practically as far as I can see and with loads of research, adults can compete ponies in loads of disciplines! I do believe taht the "baby boomer" market is hugely into the ponies... for lots of reasons. Read the articles and you'll know why. :winkgrin:

Connemaras are my forte and I'm throwing in a picture of my mare and I competing at the AECs for good measure (we were the only ponies in my training level division).

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h74/EmilyDaily/_KIT5057.jpg

Trust me... this pony and many Connemaras do not have "pony gaits" and can easily get down the lines. With comfort too!

Here's her 2 yo daughter by our stallion. She also DOES NOT have "pony gaits". Don't underestimate the ponies, if you're small (like me!) it just makes sense! :D

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h74/EmilyDaily/tagbabies029.jpg

Cannot say enough about Connemara Pony Gaits.

They are NOT pony gaits at all. Do not tell my stallion that he is not 16 hands :lol: he's completely convinced he's a big boy and is extremely comfy and smooth.

Loves to jump too - if you turn him out in the arena with a jump he'll jump it for fun. Our friends in Ireland who kept him for us prior to his importation used to laugh at him - ears up and enjoying himself.

In fact jumps are the only way to wake up that lazybones - he'll plod around the arena at a snails pace but the second he ses a jump his ears go up and he becomes animated :lol:

The fences are now about 5 foot at our farm because he was popping over them and visiting the mares - if he can get his head over it he can jump it seems to be his motto.

My family has bred Connemaras for 45 years in Ireland we have a farm back there still as well as one here in the States. My first pony was a Connemara mare who ended up a showjumper in Sweden. She did not have pony gaits at all and in fact probably would have ended up a Dressage pony had she not showed such aptitude for jumping :lol:

[suz]

sass,your connemaras are gorgeous animals! i've always wanted one, but i've have heard frequently that as a breed they may be considered hotter than say a haffie. this is a concern,since i don't bounce as well as i used to! what are your thoughts on this? i realise that we're speaking in generalities,of course. dales and welsh cobs seem to thought of as a lttle cooler. i wonder...
and,i have a friend who recomends i try a peruvian paso! she swears that while they're very forward and can be a little high,they are actually very submissive and willing. and very smooth to ride with the compact and muscular body type i like so much. hmmm,so many ponies,will i live to try them all?!

[Sassenach]

sass,your connemaras are gorgeous animals! i've always wanted one, but i've have heard frequently that as a breed they may be considered hotter than say a haffie. this is a concern,since i don't bounce as well as i used to! what are your thoughts on this? i realise that we're speaking in generalities,of course. dales and welsh cobs seem to thought of as a lttle cooler. i wonder...
and,i have a friend who recomends i try a peruvian paso! she swears that while they're very forward and can be a little high,they are actually very submissive and willing. and very smooth to ride with the compact and muscular body type i like so much. hmmm,so many ponies,will i live to try them all?!

Thank you :)

We've bred Connemaras for 45 years and I will tell you that they are extremely quiet. The American ones have a bit more TB in them than the Irishbred which are our ponies - which might contribute to the rumors of hotness you have heard.

We brought our mares to their very first show this year and the one that won Supreme Champion was later kidnapped by our friends two little girls 5 and 7 and they were both leading her at the same time. Lady is an extremly young mare and was in a new place with very little children and she was a gem and EXTREMELY careful with her feet.

At the Inspection they raved about her temperament and used all of our mares as examples of type strengths and were poking and prodding Lady and she was falling asleep during it.

My first pony was a little 14 hander in Ireland who would jump as high as her head if you'd let her. She was a bit more 'up' than most Connemaras I have worked with but her former owners were idiots to be very polite and she was mishandled and extremely antsy around men but tried her heart out for me. She's now in Sweden as a showjumper and doing well. She never quite lost her distrust of men but loved little kids and was very much a pocket pony. I still miss her :sadsmile:

We still have her mother who we bought with her 10 years ago and we had her for 5 years and she was a broodie the entire time when my father wondered if she'd ever even been sat on - so he tossed me up on her and I rode around her with a halter and leadrope bareback. Jenny is now our babysitter pony - put the visiting cousins on her and lead them around giving pony rides.

I cannot say enough good things about the Connemara temperament :D our mares were literally pulled out of a 70 acre field where they'd been living their entire lives as yearlings - 2 weeks of handling and then put on a plane and flown to the US and then a 17 hour trip from NY to our farm arriving at 2 a.m. and were saints. The driver couldn't get over them especially after bringing around high-strung racehorses.

Our boarders all love them and want their own ponies and keep telling us to keep an eye on them or else they'll end up gone! :lol:

Love my ponies wouldn't want anything else!

My Grandpa has me well trained :lol:

Grandpa: What are the best horses in the world?
Me: Connemaras of course! :D

[ptownevt]

I remember about 15 years ago, Lendon Gray was riding a gorgeous grey pony at Dressage at Saratoga. She said that she much preferred ponies and small horses because the big horses took way to much work to get and keep them moving. I don't remember his name, but I do have some lovely photos of him. I know he wasn't the only pony that she competed on successfully.
Pam

[pintopiaffe]

His name was Seldom Seen and he was AMAZING.

He was, however, at least an inch over pony, because you cannot compete CDI FEI on ponies. I believe he was 14.3 and some fractions.

I would love, love, LOVE to see piccies of him. My "brush with fame" was holding him once while L used a porta-potty at a big NEDA show. :D (she knew the rider I was grooming for, we were there, she was next... :lol: )

[Hobbs]

My guy is 14.2 and has lovely smooth gaits and no ponitude. He's a Canadian Sport Horse cross.

http://www.equinedesign.ca/horse.htm

[Sassenach]

My guy is 14.2 and has lovely smooth gaits and no ponitude. He's a Canadian Sport Horse cross.

http://www.equinedesign.ca/horse.htm

Cute!!

I think we need a 'Small But Mighty Clique' for our ponies/honies :lol:

[ptownevt]

Yes, you're right. It was Seldom Seen. She took him into NYC to do a demonstration in the hood for children. She said she talked to them about how no one thought he could do the higher levels in dressage because of his size and how he proved them all wrong. Sort of used him as an example for the kids. She said that he was great in the city, quiet and attentive to her even with the traffic, sirens, etc. She said that several dressage riders were asked to go, but no one would take a chance on their horse in that environment.
I'm not sure how I would share the pictures since they're film/print. I guess I could have them scanned. I used to work as a show photographer. That was the one year I did Dressage at Saratoga with Susan Sexton. Talk about being in heaven. I got to work with Susan Sexton, the best, as far as I'm concerned. I lost the show the next year to Mary Phelps because she also provided video. It was challenging to shoot the ponies because my timing seemed to be set for the bigger horses. What was the guy from Maine, now in Florida, Mike, what's his last name? Anyway his daughter, who is now a prominent trainer in her own right was riding this absolutely adorable pony. Then I remember another wonderful dressage pony from the Port Jervis show, a pinto with an adorable little girl in braids. I think they were showing 2nd level or something like that. It really sucks to get old and lose your memory.
Pam

[BlueEyedPony]

I'm only 5'4" and petitely built, and when I was eventing I think I felt that I had to have a big horse just to prove I could handle it. I went from a 16.2 1/2 hand warmblood-looking Argentine bred gelding to a 17hand rather big bodied TB gelding. And I'll tell you, I had to be fitfitfit to ride these horses. I always secretly admired those who competed and did well on the little guys (15.0 to 15.2 hands). Now that I'm no longer eventing and have come to my senses, I can't even imagine having anything over 15.2. My favorite mare Sarah (who is the love of my life) looked to be about 15 hands when I brought her home, but actually sticks just under 14.2...gotta love those well-sprung ribs! Not to mention that I fit her perfectly, and don't look anything close to being a peanut on an elephant (a comment I got frequently when eventing my boys). I'm hoping to breed her in a couple of years to an IDSH (Irish Draught x TB) for a neat, athletic cob that could have some eventing and foxhunting potential.
Here's Sarah:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v130/BlueEyedPony/Sarah/Sarahsummer1.jpg

[Miss-O]

I'm 5'6" and petite and I own a 14.3 hh Morgan mare and used to ride a 17.2hh warmblood. The Morgan is a much more practical horse, cheaper to feed, easier to maneuver, I don't get my head banged off tree limbs when out on the trail etc....But the big guys movement is oh so much nicer to ride.

One thing I don't get is why people say they aren't strong enough to ride the big guys. The big horses should be just as responsive as the smaller horses. So if your constantly feeling like your exhausted at the end of a ride maybe you need to go back to the basic's with that horse and get them responsive again.

[sportponies4U]

Greetings All! LOVE this topic!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wished that the suitablity " issues " were applied across the board with all breeds. IF the powers that be continue to discriminate against adults riding ponies... In example, how is a 17 hand horse " suitable to a 5 foot adult rider? I've seen enough " push me, pull me " to last a lifetime with small and large dressage riders mounted on these behemoths... Also, WHY doesn't AHSA ( I know they have a name change ) just allow adults to ride and compete on ponies? Even better, design and develop classes JUST FOR PONIES -RIDDEN AND COMPETED BY ADULTS??????? Especially for those breeders with Pony stallions that have no where to prove a stallion unless they geld him and have a minor ride them... or to prove their pony sized offspring??? I could go on and on about the unfairness... Such as " why " expect a pony to have the scope or the stride of the much larger Equines? PHYISICS should dictate that this is exceedingly unreasonable. Asking a pony to jump over the actual height of their respective hands!!!! If that is the standard then let's demand that the 16+ horses do the same!!!!!!! IF I ever win the Lottery, I will create a Pony registry just for ponies and their competitors. All breeds even grade will be welcomed and all disciplines too! Anybody care to add anything?

[undersaddle]

Also, WHY doesn't AHSA ( I know they have a name change ) just allow adults to ride and compete on ponies? Even better, design and develop classes JUST FOR PONIES -RIDDEN AND COMPETED BY ADULTS??????? Especially for those breeders with Pony stallions that have no where to prove a stallion unless they geld him and have a minor ride them... or to prove their pony sized offspring??? I could go on and on about the unfairness... Such as " why " expect a pony to have the scope or the stride of the much larger Equines? PHYISICS should dictate that this is exceedingly unreasonable. Asking a pony to jump over the actual height of their respective hands!!!! If that is the standard then let's demand that the 16+ horses do the same!!!!!!! IF I ever win the Lottery, I will create a Pony registry just for ponies and their competitors. All breeds even grade will be welcomed and all disciplines too! Anybody care to add anything?

You go!!!!! Thats a great question? Do you think they will ever do it? Do you think it could be petitioned for?

[Sassenach]

You go!!!!! Thats a great question? Do you think they will ever do it? Do you think it could be petitioned for?

I'd definately sign it and know several people who would too!! :yes:

It boggles me because there is no such discrimination in Ireland where we're from the only thing for pony stallions is that they must be ridden by someone 16+ years of age in open competition. 18+ in some others. Which is fair and makes sense.

[Miss-O]

Greetings All! LOVE this topic!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wished that the suitablity " issues " were applied across the board with all breeds. IF the powers that be continue to discriminate against adults riding ponies... In example, how is a 17 hand horse " suitable to a 5 foot adult rider? I've seen enough " push me, pull me " to last a lifetime with small and large dressage riders mounted on these behemoths... Also, WHY doesn't AHSA ( I know they have a name change ) just allow adults to ride and compete on ponies? Even better, design and develop classes JUST FOR PONIES -RIDDEN AND COMPETED BY ADULTS??????? Especially for those breeders with Pony stallions that have no where to prove a stallion unless they geld him and have a minor ride them... or to prove their pony sized offspring??? I could go on and on about the unfairness... Such as " why " expect a pony to have the scope or the stride of the much larger Equines? PHYISICS should dictate that this is exceedingly unreasonable. Asking a pony to jump over the actual height of their respective hands!!!! If that is the standard then let's demand that the 16+ horses do the same!!!!!!! IF I ever win the Lottery, I will create a Pony registry just for ponies and their competitors. All breeds even grade will be welcomed and all disciplines too! Anybody care to add anything?

I agree with you wholeheartedly. My little 14.3hh horse is more athletic then 90% of larger horses I've ridden but since she is small and can't take a line of jumps in the set number of strides required by the powers that be she isn't competitive in the show ring. And how does taking a line in x # of strides make a horse quality or not anyways?

I think the whole "suitability" rules should be thrown right out the window. That or "suitability" should mean wether or not the horses level of training is suitable for the riders level of training. There are plenty of ponies I don't want a kid going anywhere near and there are plenty of larger horses that would be great for a kid because of their temperment. Just like there are tons of ponies/small horses that are suitable training wise for an adult. It's because of stupid judgemental rules like this one that is the reason for why I no longer show.

[no_discipline]

Cute!!

I think we need a 'Small But Mighty Clique' for our ponies/honies :lol:

Can I join?:D
Oooh, my first clique:winkgrin:

Sarah

[Sassenach]

Can I join?:D
Oooh, my first clique:winkgrin:

Sarah

Mine too! *goes to change siggy* :)

[rideagoldenpony]

I'm just under 5 feet tall, and I ride a 13 hand pony. He is the perfect size for me.

We breed Section B Welsh Ponies, with an eye to stock that matures 13 to 13.2 hands. At that size they are very suitable for both children AND adults. Most of our babies to go to adults. We find that a lot of middle aged and up women are wanting to downsize their mount. They enjoy something that is smaller, more manageable and closer to the ground for both getting on and off!

Welsh are a hardy native breed. They seldom need shoes, they are easy keepers, ours are not prone to founder, seldom sick, smart and funny. I am completely sold on the breed.

I'm attaching a photo of myself riding my yellow pony, and of my husband, who is 6'6" riding the same pony. While he is very tall, he is built just like a stick, and this pony will gladly and happily carry him all day -- and smile about it the whole time!

In the Welsh breed shows, adults are allowed to show any size pony in any of the divisions. There are tons of adults who ride ponies and have a great time doing it. There are even small Section A's being ridden by adults, and they have no problem carrying them. Though the "rule of thumb" is that if your butt is bigger than your pony's, you need to get a bigger pony! :lol:

[Sakura]

I love your yellow pony! :D

[Sassenach]

I love your yellow pony! :D

Ditto - too bad Connemaras are my first and forever love :winkgrin:

[undersaddle]

Can I join?:D
Oooh, my first clique:winkgrin:

Sarah

I too would love to join!
How do you do such a thing?

[miraclewelsh]

Most of our babies to go to adults. We find that a lot of middle aged and up women are wanting to downsize their mount. They enjoy something that is smaller, more manageable and closer to the ground for both getting on and off!

Welsh are a hardy native breed. They seldom need shoes, they are easy keepers, ours are not prone to founder, seldom sick, smart and funny. I am completely sold on the breed.



I couldn't have said it better myself. :-)) We love riding our Welsh!

[sportponies4U]

Greetings All! The Welsh and the Connemara's do things right! Allowing adult riders in competition. However, if you have any other breed of pony and wish to compete it is near impossible... especailly cross-breds.. I love and admire both the Welsh and Connemara, even have a few section B's of dilute colors. Considered purchasing Connemara's, but Welsh shows are more widely available in Florida. I am specializing in registered half-Arabian Sportponies using Arabian,Welsh, Morab, Morgan and AQHA mares. The problem is that my senior pony stallion that I wish to campaign is a cross bred thus making him essentially a grade pony. So showing in the Welsh shows is not an option for me. Though he IS a registerable as Half-Welsh through his dam, I have not been able to get the mare owners permission or co-operation since she is elderly and failing health. That is another tradegy, another long sad story... The point being that for those of us adults who own ponies or even Honies ( I have few of those too! ) it is still impossible to show them to their best advantage when we have to compete against the more " popular " WB breeds. In competition, EVEN IF a pony displays and performs better quality ( movement, conformation or performance ) than the larger horses, the judges show no respect of adults choosing to ride the smaller equines. What I'd like to see offered at ALL shows is classes specifically for ponies ONLY WITH ADULTS to ride! Dressage, Hunter, U/S classes and In-Hand/Model. Think about it wouldn't it be a blast to finally be able to compete on a fair basis of ponies against ponies???? For those who prefer Eventing -different courses/levels could be designed for ponies. Just a few thoughts...
TO: hobbs - LOVE your Canadian cross!!!! Tremendous bone. He screams quality.
TO: Gretchen - familiar with your yella fella, he's lovely.

[sportponies4U]

Greetings all! WOW! Just finished reading all the posts. Just want to thank everyone for all the good ideas, sharing pics and general comments. Sounds like a great diverse bunch of pony lovers. Love seeing all the different types of ponies so thanks for sharing pics. Yvonne Denise

[twhrider13]

I had no idea that adults could not show ponies in certain disciplines. The NHSC, which pretty much every Walking Horse show in this area is affiliated with, recently--as in the last few years--added an "Adults on Walking Ponies" division to the rulebook. There has always been a 15.2 and Under division. Even so, the 15.2 and Under horses still do well in Open competition. Main Power, the 2005 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, started his career in the aged divisions as a 15.2 and Under horse. Odd that there is such a stigma against ponies/smaller horses in other disciplines. For all our problems, that's not one of them.

That being said, I could never ride a pony. It would not appreciate my 5'9", size 18 self! :lol: