Sport
21 November, 2025
US trip opportunity for local riders
Local young riders are being offered a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to train in America with a former local who is among our best-ever equestrians.
Phillip Dutton was one of Australia’s most-successful Olympians, winning two gold and one bronze medal in equestrian eventing at the 1996 Atlanta and 2000 Sydney Games.
Now based in the United States, the 62-year-old former Hermidale boy – who learned the basics of his horse-craft through Nyngan Pony Club – is offering four young people the chance to come and ride with him.
Mr Dutton is now partnering the local club to form the “Phillip Dutton Exchange”, which will give young riders the chance to travel to America and spend time in his yard, Nyngan Pony Club president, Rodney Robb has revealed.
This opportunity, he added, would take place during the June/July school holidays and is intended to become an annual program, inspiring young riders and strengthening their commitment to the sport.
Participants there will experience world-class training and gain invaluable insights from one of the best in the industry.
To be considered, Mr Robb explained, applicants must demonstrate an ongoing commitment to Nyngan Pony Club and meet specific eligibility requirements.
While a certain level of riding ability is also necessary, the program is not limited to the best riders, with commitment and dedication key factors in the selection process. Applicants must also have represented Nyngan Pony Club at multiple events and submit a written application explaining why they want to participate.
“The committee will select participants based on effort and overall suitability, meals and accommodation will be covered, but applicants will need to pay for their own airfare and spending money,” Mr Robb said.
The successful applicants will be announced at the Nyngan Pony Club Christmas Party in December. This timeline ensures that there is adequate time to organise flights and travel arrangements.
Mr Robb said applicants must be at least 15-years-old (as of December 2025); have demonstrated attendance; and to have represented at multiple Nyngan Pony Club events in the past 12–18 months; with a reasonable level of riding ability.
“They should provide a written statement explaining why they want to participate, and what they hope to gain and provide evidence of ongoing commitment to pony club.”
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our riders to learn from one of the best in the world,” said a spokesperson for Nyngan Pony Club.
“We’re excited to see the enthusiasm and effort from our members.”
APPLICATIONS FOR THE Phillip Dutton Exchange must be submitted no later than Wednesday, December 17. Successful applications to be announced on December 19, 2025. Applicants must be at least 15-years-old (as of December 2025). Have demonstrated attendance and represented at multiple Nyngan Pony Club events in the past 12–18 months; with a reasonable level of riding ability. Send your written application to: nynganponyclub@gmail.com
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