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Ponies can definitely have personalities. When you're at a competition, you see ponies with very specific characteristics, which we're sure you'll recognize. We have therefore decided to gather the most common types of ponies that one often encounters around the competition venues.
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You definitely know the old experienced pony. This is the type of pony that has been 'handed down' from one pony rider to the next, until he/she reaches the age limit. The old pony knows its stuff and is a pillar of safety. It's the type that loves to take a nap between classes, and generally takes everything with supreme calm. On the other hand, it's so smart that it won't put up with just anything. So beware of cheating it out of food or giving it equipment with too many Swarovski crystals – it will definitely say no thanks to that!
Most have seen the small adorable (usually white) ponies at the competition venues. The equipment is always matching and adorned with lots of bling-bling. It's a real dressage pony. Usually, it's a mare, so it often squeals and lays its ears back at others if they get too close. In short, it's a real princess horse with princess quirks, for better or worse.
Fasten your seatbelt, because this pony is in a hurry! The Speedster is known for being the type of pony that always takes at least eight canter strides where there should only be six between the jumps. Movements and exercises at walk are a no-go, whereas free trot and canter are favorites. Where a normal dressage program takes six minutes, a Speedster will complete it in three – anything else is just a waste of time. And sometimes the Speedster can be hard to keep on the track because it's in such a hurry!
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No thanks! When the mule has decided it doesn't want to do something, it just won't. And it's almost impossible to persuade it otherwise. Often it's a slow poke, but on the flip side, it's safe and calm to be around. A mule is an excellent pony for beginners, as you can learn a lot from riding it. However, remember that if you're riding a mule, there's a high risk it will stop in the middle of the dressage program and start eating from the flower pots on the barrier. The mule is also notoriously known for being incredibly food-loving.
Here we have the pony that is the epitome of safety. It never stops in front of a jump or sees ghosts on the track. They are easy and uncomplicated to ride and are (almost) never disobedient. However, it's not the world's most beautiful type of pony. But what does it matter when it always does its best?
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