D Retreat
You are invited to join the Northern Lakes Region (NLR) for D-Retreat - 2026!
Open to the Public. Bring a Friend or Two!
When: Saturday, February 14, 2026
Where: U of M Leatherdale Equine Center, 1801 Dudley Ave., St. Paul, MN
Cost: $45 or $80 to attend both D-Retreat & EBTH
Registration and Payment Deadline: February 7, 2026, advance registration required
What is D-Retreat? Fun, Learning & Friends!
D-Retreat is a hands on learning opportunity for the horse-loving children of Minnesota and Wisconsin. Pony Club includes the development of " Horse Management" skills: how to safely and ably care for, and enjoy time around, ponies and horses.
D-Retreat is an "unmounted" event. While there are no horses on-site, it is designed to help kids build their Horse Management Skills and have fun with other kids who share their love of horses.
More senior Pony Club members (C1 and up) will lead participants through fun-filled stations where participants will Learn by Doing.
Who May Attend?
- Non-Pony Club members (horse loving kids ages 7 and up) and Pony Club members (brand new members, through D3s) are invited to attend.
- Children under 7 who are considering a pony club membership in 2026 may also attend with the permission of our Regional Supervisor, Leslie Atkins.
- C1 and up members who want to gain teaching experience and give back to the NLR.
Cost:
$45 per participant. Please complete payment/postmark checks by February 7.
Lunch is not provided. Attendees should bring a bag lunch and water bottle.
FAQ:
Who may I contact with questions about this event? Please reach out to Leslie Atkins, NLR Regional Supervisor.
If I went once should I come again? YES! Each year the topics and lessons change and as you move up the levels the instructors adjust the topic to fit the correct standard for your level. As you move up the levels it is also a great way to watch young teachers in action and think about how YOU would present the material when it is your turn. Parents, it is also a great time to shadow the kids and learn what they need to know for the coming year. It's a great introduction to Pony Club!