Pony, 25 rides short of 100,000, will soon ride again

It is probably the most famous derby pony from Abbeville despite never winning a Kentucky Derby, Belmont or even a race behind Clement’s.
The famous horse, named, “Pony” was ridden by almost every child in Abbeville between 1968 through 1996.
For 28 years, if you went to Frank’s Drive Inn on Charity Street, “Pony” was there waiting to be ridden. All it cost was a dime.
The Ognibene family owned and operated Frank's from 1956 until 2005. Gerald and his wife Judith took over operations in 1966 and sold it in 2005. In 1968, Pony was purchased from Paul W. Hawkins for $500. Over time, he made close to $10,000.
“I remember we bought it the same year our daughter Michelle was born,” said Judith.
Future mayors, senators, doctors, truck drivers, welders, lawyers, teachers, and nurses all rode Pony while they waited for their food. This went on until 1996 and then someone got greedy and stole the box used to deposit the dimes in order to ride Pony.
That was the end of Pony. He was retired, only 25 rides short of reaching a major milestone for horses like him. He has been ridden 99,975 times, or 25 rides short of 100,000 rides.
The Oginibenes are taking Pony out of retirement and will part with the horse who has been part of their family for 46 years.
The Oginibenes are donating Pony to the Abbeville Rotary Club for its “St. Pat’s Comedy for a Cause” at Black’s. Pony, who still runs, will be auctioned at the fundraiser.
“I plan to be there (at the auction) because I want to see who will buy Pony,” Gerald said. He admitted it will be a sad day when he has to load Pony up for Saturday's auction. “I want a new generation of kids to enjoy him.”
“We feel like he belongs to the youth of Vermilion Parish,” said Judith.
Pony will ride again!