I have a question about Pony Hunter Divisions. I have noticed that at Hunter shows that have divisions for ponies, the riders all must be under the age of 17. Why is this? I understand that most riders under 17 are small and lightweight, therefore making the ponies a good match for their riders. However, there are plenty of small adults out there as well. Imagine if you were 21 and only 5 foot, trying to ride a larger horse could present a problem, but showing a pony in a pony division over the age of 17 is not allowed? I think it would suck, actually I know it sucks (I'm 21 and 5 foot) And as far as showing ponies in horse divisions, from what I have seen there are no rules saying you can't; but then you have to try and get a pony to make a horse stride between jumps and most judges wont even bother with a small pony showing in a Hunter class for horses.
I don't think its fair and I was wondering if anyone knew anything about why they did this??