The Helderberg Pony Club is abuzz with excitement as they prepare to host their upcoming May Day Fundraising Show at Firlands Equestrian Park tomorrow (Thursday 1 May).
The initiative aims to bolster the club’s funds, ensuring that all their enthusiastic young members can participate in the prestigious Western Cape Interbranch Competition in September.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the event, Miranda Holtrop, marketing and communications head at the local club, explained: “It started as a means to allow more of our members to take part in our yearly interbranch without concerns about entry costs. The funds raised from this year’s May Day show will all go towards the 2025 Interbranch entry and stabling fees. Any surplus will be allocated to enriching outings for our members.”
The Helderberg Pony Club plays a vital role in the local community, fostering a love for horses and equestrian activities among young people.
“Our purpose is to encourage young people to ride and learn to enjoy all kinds of activities connected with ponies, horses, and riding,” Holtrop elaborated. “We aim to enrich their experience and teach them about all things equestrian and the environment.”
The club offers monthly rallies covering a diverse range of topics, some requiring access to a horse or pony, while others focus on broader equestrian knowledge.
It provides guidance and instruction in riding and horsemanship, emphasising the proper care of these majestic animals.
Helderberg Pony Club is currently led by district commissioner Donne Pywell, secretary and head of lectures Kai van der Riet, Holtrop, and treasurer Alecia Botha.
The upcoming May Day show serves a dual purpose: fundraising and providing valuable experience for the riders.
“With very limited local practise shows in our area, our May Day show gives people an opportunity to gain experience in their discipline in a fun show environment,” said Holtrop. “Our emphasis is on the youth and rising stars, but all are welcome to join!”
As an NPO, the Helderberg Pony Club relies heavily on the generosity of sponsors to provide the best possible experience for participants.
“Due to us being non-profit, sponsors are very important to give every participant the most positive experience and ensure that nobody leaves empty-handed,” Holtrop emphasised.
The club extends its sincere gratitude to the following sponsors for their invaluable support of the May Day show: Tack Shack; Hello Quality Equestrian; Westernne Shoppe; Arco360: Equine Culture; Tack & Tail; SPAR Mountain View; Caroline Hartley Photography; and Dune Savannah Multimedia; among other key contributors.
Looking ahead, the Helderberg Pony Club has more equestrian events on the horizon.
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