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Getting Started: How to Join MGA NI
So you have watched a competition, or your child has come home from a friend's yard talking about nothing else, and you want to know how to actually start. The good news is that getting involved with MGA NI is easier and less formal than people expect. You do not need to be a brilliant rider or own a fancy pony. You need a willing attitude and a sensible pony, and we will help with the rest.
Step one: come and watch, then have a go
The simplest first step is to come along to a training day. You can watch first if you like, but most people are itching to try within ten minutes. Our coaches will pair you with a lane, walk you through a race slowly and let you build up at your own pace. Nobody is thrown in at the deep end, and the atmosphere is friendly rather than fiercely competitive at this stage. If you would like to understand the sport before you arrive, our beginner's guide is a good ten-minute read.
What to bring
- A sensible pony you are confident on in trot and canter.
- An up-to-date riding hat and a body protector. Our kit guide explains what is needed.
- Suitable footwear and gloves.
- Water and a haynet for the pony, and a snack for yourself. Training days can be long and happy.
That really is it. You do not need to buy any of the props to begin, because we have everything set up at training.
Membership
To compete you will need to become a member, which also covers you under the association's structure. Membership and event payments are handled through our online portal, which keeps the admin simple for everyone. We will point you to it once you have been along and decided games is for you. There is no pressure to sign up before you have tried it.
Your first season
Expect to spend the early part of your first season simply getting the hang of the races and building a partnership with your pony. Bending will come first, and our guide to training for bending is worth reading early. From there you will pick up the flag race, the sock race and the rest, and before long you will find yourself in a team. When your first competition day comes around, you will be far readier than you feel.
Where we meet
Most of our training and competition happens at Silverwood Arena near Lurgan through the spring and summer. The friendliest way to find out about the next session is through our Facebook page, and you can always reach us through the contact page. Come along, bring the pony, and give it a go. We think you will be glad you did.