From the ranks of Huon Pony Club in Pony Club Tasmania to international eventing, Yona Lloyd’s story is a testament to passion, dedication, and a deep love for Pony Club. Yona started like so many young riders in Pony Club, climbing through the levels and mastering horsemanship skills that would carry him to 5* level eventing and earn him a place on Australia’s shortlist for the Oceania Championships.
But Yona’s impact reaches far beyond the competition arena. A talented trainer, he has produced a team of horses at FEI level, often traveling across Australia and helping them achieve consistent podium finishes. His horses, trained with care and skill, go on to success with new riders too—a true mark of his craftsmanship. Yona also passes his knowledge on to his students, who frequently shine at events, demonstrating his dedication to nurturing talent in others.
With a special knack for retraining off-the-track horses, Yona uses Equitation Science International – ESI principles to give these thoroughbreds a second chance, producing horses that are not only competitive but also a joy for their new owners. At many events, you’ll find OTT horses trained by Yona achieving great results.
Committed to his Pony Club roots, Yona has devoted his career to sharing his knowledge, teaching at clubs like Ballarat Pony Club, Main Ridge Pony Club, Maryborough & District Horse and Pony Club, Smythesdale and District Pony Club, Lochard Pony Club, Bacchus Marsh Pony Club and many others across Pony Club Victoria and Pony Club Association of South Australia Inc.. He coaches everyone from Grade 6 Pony Club riders to national eventing squads and is always the first to lend a hand at competitions, whether it’s guiding young riders on course walks, assisting any rider in need, or simply manning the BBQ at a rally. If help is needed, Yona is there.
Yona’s dedication doesn’t stop at coaching—he’s actively shaped Pony Club from within, serving as President and currently Vice President of Ballarat Pony Club. For nearly two decades, he’s worked on building the Ballarat grounds, leading fundraising efforts, and rolling up his sleeves to make improvements himself. He’s mentored riders from their first pole on the ground to major wins, helping each step of the way.
Yona’s commitment to Pony Club reflects his gratitude for the community that supported him, and he continues to give back generously. From the youngest beginner to the most advanced competitor, Yona embodies the Pony Club spirit of giving, learning, and supporting the grassroots.
Thank you, Yona, for all that you do!
