What are the three pony size divisions and how are they measured?

The three pony size divisions in American hunter jumper competition — small, medium, and large — are organized by the pony's height measured in hands, with specific maximum height limits defining each category and ensuring that ponies of similar size compete against each other rather than small ponies competing against large ones with inherent movement and stride length advantages. Small ponies measure twelve hands two inches or under — approximately fifty inches at the withers — and jump fences typically set between two feet and two feet three inches. Medium ponies measure over twelve hands two inches through thirteen hands two inches — between fifty and fifty-four inches — and jump fences typically set between two feet three inches and two feet six inches. Large ponies measure over thirteen hands two inches through fourteen hands two inches — between fifty-four and fifty-eight inches — and jump fences typically set between two feet nine inches and three feet six inches depending on the specific class. The measurement process is formalized for competition purposes: ponies competing at recognized shows must be officially measured by a licensed measurer and carry a valid measurement card that specifies their official height. Measurement cards may be permanent for mature ponies whose height is established, or temporary for younger ponies who may still be growing. A pony whose height falls at or near the boundary between divisions may be measured multiple times across a competitive career to confirm its division eligibility, and ponies that grow above the large pony limit of fourteen hands two inches become technically horses rather than ponies and are no longer eligible for pony hunter competition. The three-division structure means that the most celebrated pony hunter competition occurs in the large pony division where the ponies' size, movement scale, and jumping scope most closely approach horse hunter quality.