Hosted by the United States Pony Clubs, the exchange culminated at the renowned Kentucky Horse Park, where the Australian team produced a composed and consistent performance to secure the title.
Australia finished ahead of a strong international field, with the final placings:
1. Australia
2. United Kingdom
3. United States
4. New Zealand
5. Canada
Representing Australia were Bailey Logue (Aberdeen Pony Club, NSW), Chelsea Davidge (Darwin Horse and Pony Club, Northern Territory), Jack Hamilton (Woodlands Pony Club, Victoria), Ellie Steele (Swan Valley Pony Club, Western Australia) and Ruby Atkins (Deloraine District Pony Club, Tasmania). The team was coached by Karen Pearce (Leven Pony Club, Tasmania) and managed by Edwina Hare (Apsley Pony Club, Victoria).
Beyond the competition itself, the exchange gave riders the opportunity to immerse themselves in another country’s Pony Club culture, compete on unfamiliar horses, learn from international coaches and officials, and build friendships with young equestrians from around the world.
Pony Club Australia CEO Matt Helmers said the result reflected not only the team’s riding ability, but also the values they demonstrated throughout the exchange.
“Winning an international competition is always exciting, but what makes us equally proud is the way this team represented Pony Club Australia throughout the entire exchange,” Mr Helmers said.
“These exchanges are about much more than medals. They ask young riders to step outside their comfort zone, adapt to different horses and environments, embrace new ideas and cultures, and support one another as a team. Those experiences stay with them long after the competition has finished.”
“The relationships built between riders, coaches and host families across different countries are one of the greatest strengths of the Pony Club movement. They remind us that while we come from different parts of the world, we share the same commitment to developing capable horse people and good citizens.”
The tour also produced individual recognition, with Bailey Logue receiving the Best Sportsmanship Award, presented by the Chief Steward.
The award recognised Bailey’s conduct, attitude and respect throughout the exchange, embodying the values that sit at the heart of Pony Club.
Before departing for the United States, Bailey said he was most looking forward to learning from a new coach, observing different approaches to horse management and training, and building friendships with riders from around the world. His recognition for sportsmanship reflected the way he embraced those opportunities throughout the tour.
The victory also marked a special milestone for coach Karen Pearce, who was the Australian team manager when Pony Club Australia last won the International Mounted Games Exchange in 2019. Seven years later, she returned to help guide a new generation of riders to another international title.
The International Mounted Games Exchange forms part of Pony Club’s long-standing commitment to international youth development, providing young riders with opportunities to challenge themselves, broaden their horsemanship and build lifelong connections through horses.
For the Australian team, the week delivered all of that, capped by an unforgettable result at one of the world’s most iconic equestrian venues.
