‘Some breed societies danger being left behind’

Rebecca Penny, a local pony specialist who has received at HOYS and RIHS whereas additionally working as an internet site designer and on-line advertising guide, on why we should promote the flexibility of our native breeds

The latest announcement on Fb from the long-established Welsh Pony and Cob efficiency occasion relating to the Welsh Pony and Cob Society’s (WPCS) choice to cut back the funding to simply 17% of what it has traditionally given, fairly rightly sparked important debate and concern.

As an avid supporter of native pony breeds and their versatile capabilities, I share the sentiment of many who imagine that this choice represents a major step backward for the promotion and recognition of those animals.

Whereas acknowledging that the WPCS might must streamline their operations and look to save lots of on prices, it’s important to notice that they don’t look to be in dire monetary straits. Thus, the choice to discontinue funding for a efficiency occasion with such historic significance raises questions concerning the society’s priorities and dedication to showcasing the total potential of Welsh ponies and cobs.

Efficiency schemes and occasions play a pivotal function in reshaping perceptions and elevating the desirability of native breeds past the confines of the present ring. Not solely that, however additionally they give riders the chance to attempt their hand at different disciplines.

For years, Olympic occasion rider Laura Collett was an attendee on the Welsh Pony and Cob efficiency occasion. She was a younger rider that introduced ponies up via the ranks and undoubtedly used occasions like this to additional her abilities outdoors of the present ring and they might have supplied her with an amazing stepping stone on her street to success.

“Actively promote versatility”

Breed societies, usually, have a duty to be proactive in championing the efficiency skills of their breeds throughout the disciplines.

Recognising and rewarding achievements in actions akin to dressage, eventing, driving and endurance not solely highlights the flexibility of native ponies but in addition attracts new members to the societies and encourages riders to contemplate native ponies for his or her equestrian pursuits.

In a aggressive market the place riders have quite a few breeds to select from, societies should strategically place their native breeds to thrive. Some societies are responsible of being a bit caught previously and must give attention to selling ponies that meet the modern-day rider’s wants, or they danger being left behind. One solely wants to have a look at present class entries to see that the demand is in additional performance-based courses.

Whereas some native breeds naturally lend themselves to those disciplines higher than others, it’s essential for societies to actively promote the flexibility of all breeds. In any other case, they’re susceptible to turning into an afterthought within the equestrian neighborhood.

The exemplary efforts of societies just like the British Connemara Pony Society function inspiring examples of what might be achieved via strategic promotion and advocacy, in the end resulting in elevated demand and recognition for native breeds worldwide.

By investing in efficiency occasions and schemes, societies can domesticate a optimistic picture of their breeds, attracting a various vary of riders and making certain their long-term viability and relevance.

Moreover, efficiency occasions present a platform for breeders and homeowners to showcase the capabilities of particular person animals, contributing to the genetic enchancment of the breed and preserving its heritage traits.

By neglecting the promotion of efficiency actions, breed societies danger stifling the development of their breeds and limiting their enchantment to a broader viewers.

● What do you assume breed societies might do to advertise native ponies as versatile efficiency animals? Tell us by emailing hhletters@futurenet.com, together with your title, nearest city and nation, for the possibility on your letter to seem in a forthcoming situation of the journal

• This unique column will even be out there to learn in Horse & Hound journal, on sale Thursday 18 April

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