About AHTPA
At the Adelaide Hills Team Penning Association, we're passionate about horses, cattle, and bringing people together through the exciting sport of Team Penning.
Our club provides a welcoming, family-friendly environment where riders of all ages and experience levels can enjoy quality competition, improve their horsemanship and cattle-handling skills, and build lasting friendships with like-minded horse enthusiasts.
Whether you're stepping into the arena for the first time or you're an experienced competitor chasing success, AHTPA offers something for everyone. We are committed to encouraging new members, supporting rider development, and providing a safe, enjoyable atmosphere where everyone has the opportunity to learn, compete, and have fun.
Throughout the season we host regular competitions at our grounds in Mount Crawford, welcoming competitors and spectators from across South Australia. Our events are run by dedicated volunteers who share a passion for the sport and helping our club continue to grow.
If you're looking for a friendly club, great horses, exciting cattle work, and a supportive community, we'd love to welcome you to AHTPA.
Come and experience the thrill of Team Penning—we'll see you in the arena!
What is Team Penning?
Three riders. Three cattle. One team.
3 is the Key!
Team Penning is a fast-paced, exciting equestrian sport that combines horsemanship, teamwork, strategy, and cattle handling.
Teams of three riders work together to separate three designated cattle from a herd and move them safely into the holding pen at the opposite end of the arena—all within the allocated time. Success relies on communication, quick thinking, and the partnership between horse and rider.
Points are awarded based on the number of cattle successfully penned and the time taken, making every second count!
Whether you're an experienced cattle rider or simply looking for a new challenge with your horse, Team Penning is a fun, rewarding sport that welcomes riders of all skill levels. It's a fantastic way to improve your horse's confidence, sharpen your cattle-working skills, and enjoy friendly competition in a supportive environment.
Never tried Team Penning before? Don't worry! New members are always welcome, and regular training days and clinics are held throughout the season to help riders and horses build confidence and develop their skills.
Check out our upcoming competition dates, come along to an event, or join us for a training day—we'd love to introduce you to the exciting world of Team Penning!
Come and see why so many riders are hooked on Team Penning!
Rules & Regulations
At AHTPA, our goal is to provide a safe, fair, and enjoyable
environment for everyone.
Whether you're a new member or a seasoned competitor, we encourage you to familiarise yourself with our Rulebook and Club Constitution, which are available below.
All competitors must be current financial members of the Adelaide Hills Team Penning Association before competing at any AHTPA event. Membership helps support the club and ensures all participants are covered by the club's policies and requirements.
If you're new to Team Penning, don't worry! Before competition begins, we hold a competitor briefing where the key rules, competition format, and safety requirements are explained. Our committee members and experienced competitors are always happy to answer questions, offer guidance, and help you feel confident before entering the arena.
At the beginning of each membership season, all members—including riders, non-riding members, volunteers, committee members, and officials—are required to complete the AHTPA Risk Warning & Waiver of Liability Form.
We encourage all members to take the time to read the Rulebook, Club Constitution, and Risk Warning & Waiver of Liability Form before participating in any club activities. If you're ever unsure about a rule or procedure, simply ask—our committee and members are always happy to help.
Together, we can ensure every event is safe, enjoyable, and a great experience for everyone involved.
Training Days
Get your horse out of the paddock, dust off your gear, and get ready for another exciting Team Penning season!
At AHTPA, we endeavour to hold Team Penning Training Days throughout the year, weather and ground conditions permitting. These sessions are a fantastic opportunity for both new and experienced riders to build confidence, improve their cattle-working skills, and prepare themselves and their horses for competition.
Whether you're trying Team Penning for the first time or looking to sharpen your skills, our training days provide a friendly and supportive environment where you can learn from experienced riders, develop your horsemanship, and enjoy plenty of time in the saddle.
As training days are dependent on weather conditions, cattle availability, and ground suitability, dates will be announced throughout the year. Keep an eye on our Facebook page and website for upcoming training opportunities.
Places are limited, and registrations will be taken via JotForm once a training day is announced.
For all training day enquiries, please contact the AHTPA Secretary:
📧 secretary-ahtp@outlook.com
We look forward to seeing you and your horse in the arena soon!