What are Pony-Games (Mounted Games)?
Pony-Games is a unique equestrian sport that combines competition, skill, and team spirit. It is accessible to all riding levels and ages, starting from 8 years old. Beyond simple pony games, this discipline offers much more than recreational riding. This article explores this multifaceted equestrian world, where technique, respect for the animal, and human values come together in harmony.
What are Pony-Games (Mounted Games)?
Also known as Mounted Games, Pony-Games is an equestrian activity distinguished by its playful and competitive nature. It includes various challenges on horseback or pony and emphasizes teamwork and collaboration. This discipline is open to all ages and riding levels.
Origins and Evolution of Pony-Games
Pony-Games first appeared in the 1950s in the United Kingdom. Since then, they have evolved from a local pastime to a dynamic international equestrian discipline.
Prince Philip and the Birth of Mounted Games
Initially informal, the games gained momentum with Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, who became the driving force behind their success. Inspired by leisure practices observed in India, he created "Mounted Games" to provide children with an accessible equestrian competition.
From Local Play to International Competitions
From simple local games for children, Pony-Games became structured competitions. The creation of the "Mounted Games Association of Great Britain" in 1984 by Norman Patrick expanded the sport to 21 countries, including France in 1991. A simple idea thus evolved into an exciting international discipline.
Evolution into a Dynamic Sport
Pony-Games gained popularity due to their affordability and their ability to teach riding in a fun way. The sport benefits riders physically and mentally, making it a true "spectator sport" where agility, speed, and fair play are celebrated.
Rules and Equipment Needed for Pony-Games
Pony-Games consist of 36 officially recognized games in France and around 70 internationally. Each game has specific rules promoting speed, agility, and fair play.
Common Basic Rules
Although rules vary, all Pony-Games follow strict regulations to ensure fair, safe, and smooth gameplay. It is a team sport with individual or paired challenges. Horses and ponies aged 4 to 7, children from 8 years old, and adults of all ages can participate.
Equipment for Pony-Games
Riders wear matching uniforms or headbands for their team. Standard riding attire includes pants, riding boots, and a helmet (highly recommended), optionally with a protective vest. Horses or ponies are equipped with a bridle, bit approved by the rules, with or without a martingale. Saddles are fitted with open flaps and safety stirrups. All equipment is designed for participant safety.
Benefits and Skills Developed Through Pony-Games
Pony-Games go beyond competition. Regular practice provides numerous physical and mental benefits. In addition to improving coordination, balance, and flexibility, the discipline strengthens the bond between rider and pony.
It fosters values such as cooperation, trust, and respect, while also challenging tactical thinking and quick decision-making.
Overall, this equestrian discipline offers comprehensive training for riders of all levels.
How Does a Pony-Games Competition Work?
After warm-up, teams of riders and their mounts compete on a specially prepared field for the specific challenge. Each rider-horse pair demonstrates speed and agility in front of a judging panel. Competitions are conducted in a dynamic yet respectful atmosphere, prioritizing both human and equine welfare.
Preparation Before Competition
Teams prepare physically and familiarize their ponies with the different events. Elite championships require more intense training to improve pony endurance. On competition day, warm-up in the paddock includes classic stretching to reduce injury risk.
Events and How They Unfold
Competitions take place on a field with a central zone and lanes for each team. There are relay zones and waiting areas on either side.
List of Events
With 36 French games divided into 4 levels (Elite, 1, 2, 3), each team plays 6 or 8 games per level: Slalom (Speed Weavers); Ball & Cone; Five Flags (Flag Fliers); Carton (Carton Race); Rope (Pony Pairs); Two Flags; Two Cups (Mug Shuffle); Factor (Pony Express); Tire (Hula Hoop); Teksab; Five Cups (Hug a Mug); Petit Président; Ride and Run; Basket (Hilo); Steps (Agility Aces); Two Bottles; Windsor Tour; Three Cups; Bottles (Bottle Shuttle); Four Flags Race; Balloons (Bang a Balloon); Socks & Buckets; Flag Exchange; Cups; Pyramids (Association Race); Bottle Exchange; Litter Scoop; Sword Lancers; Bank Race; Mr. Clean (Litter Lifters); Three Pot Flag; Ball & Cones International; President; Toolbox; Hoopla; Toolbox.
General Rules of Events
Each game features 4 rider-pony pairs per team. The start is signaled by the referee lowering a flag when all horses are ready behind the start line. Relay occurs when all four hooves of the previous horse are in the relay zone. Each competitor completes their course to earn points. Errors incur penalties.
Judging Criteria and Scoring
The FFE regularly updates evaluation criteria on its website. Judges assess performance, speed, agility, and precision. Points are awarded based on time, penalties, and mistakes. Final rankings are determined by total points accumulated. Faster and more accurate performances earn higher scores.
How to Train for Pony-Games
For club-level competitions, a club pony and an untrained rider are sufficient. However, maintaining good physical condition increases chances of success as difficulty rises.
Specific Exercises to Improve Performance
Riders develop fitness to meet demands for speed, agility, and flexibility. Running, strength training, and swimming are recommended alongside riding practice.
Horses undergo basic training, then practice quick turns and responsiveness. Exercises include progressive transitions, cornering drills, and precise movements.
Practicing other equestrian disciplines also enhances overall performance. Regular training strengthens endurance, coordination, and rider control.
Tips to Improve Skill and Coordination
Five practical tips for amateur riders:
- Practice catching moving objects on horseback. Passing a ball between riders improves dexterity and multi-directional maneuvering.
- Train without stirrups to strengthen balance and stability, essential for precision exercises like weaving around poles.
- Ride varied obstacle courses to refine movements and coordination with your pony.
- Spend time working on the ground to strengthen the bond and mutual understanding with your pony.
- Practice other disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, or vaulting to complement your skills.
Tips to Strengthen the Rider-Pony Relationship
A harmonious relationship with your pony ensures perfect teamwork. Seven tips to help:
- Constant Communication - Learn to understand your pony’s signals, including gestures, sounds, and body language.
- Quality Time - Engage in activities off-saddle to build connection: grooming, time in the paddock, simple games.
- Mutual Trust - Respect your pony and act consistently. Avoid rough handling.
- Positive Training - Use positive reinforcement to encourage desired behavior.
- Variety - Offer different activities to keep your pony mentally stimulated: exercises, varied rides, or games.
- Individual Understanding - Each pony has preferences. Learn theirs for care and activities.
- Patience and Perseverance - Building a strong relationship takes time. Be patient and consistent.
Strengthening these aspects improves connection and teamwork with your pony.
In conclusion, Pony-Games is more than an equestrian discipline; it is an exciting adventure combining competition and camaraderie, offering challenges and memorable experiences for horse enthusiasts of all levels. Whether novice or experienced, dive into the captivating world of Pony-Games and discover a new dimension of the horse-human relationship.
