Three local youth earn D-2 certification from the United States Pony Clubs, Inc.

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Nev. – Bayview Farms Pony Club Riding Center has announced the certification of Bailey Brown from D-1 to D-2 in Horse Management, and sisters Gabby and Giada Lancellotti from D-1 to D-2 in Horse Management and Hunter Seat Equitation at a testing event held on November 12, 2023, in Minden, Nev.

To earn the certification, Bailey, 10, Gabby, 15, and Giada, 12. of South Lake Tahoe passed an examination that tested horsemanship skills and equine knowledge. They were tested on their practical knowledge in areas such as tack, hoof care, breeds, pony parts, nutrition, and safety. Additionally, Gabby and Giada were tested on riding skills such as riding on the flat at the walk, trot, and canter, and without stirrups at the sitting trot, as well as riding a simple jumping course of crossrails and verticals. Each of the Pony Club certification levels is more difficult than the preceding one and requires Pony Club members to learn more about horses and their care and to become increasingly accomplished riders and teachers to younger members.

Bailey joined Pony Club in 2020 and rides a horse owned by Bayview Farms. Gabby and Giada joined in 2019 when the riding center opened, and ride their own horses. Pony Club memberships are open to all ages and experience levels and participants don’t have to own their horse to participate.

“Pony Club is a great training ground for equine care and horsemanship. Not only that, it’s a place to build friendships and grow together. It has been wonderful to watch the camaraderie among the kids, and how they support one another,” said Katie Joll, mother of Bailey.

Bayview Farms Pony Club Riding Center is owned by Cori Rosa, a hunter, jumper, and equitation trainer with 40 years of experience, and the center administrator is Kelly Lancellotti of South Lake Tahoe.

The Center is located in Minden. There are approximately 10,000 Pony Club members in 600 clubs and centers throughout the country. Along with an emphasis on helping its members learn to ride and care for horses, Pony Club promotes teamwork, a sense of responsibility, safety, good moral judgment, and self-confidence.

For more membership information, contact Kelly Lancellotti at 530-416-2735 or Cori Rosa at 775-721-7318.