Fifth Chukker Magazine Issue 11

VOL 2 ISSUE 11

Adventures in Luxury

Sculpture

by Bale Ola-Olu Olawale Photograph

by Fiorilla Francesco

fifthchukker.com fifthchukkermagazine.com

SCULPTURE SPECIFICS

Artist

Bale Ola-Olu Olawale

Year

2016

Type

Sculpture

Medium

Polystyrene

Dimension

4.2 metres

Location

Fifth Chukker Resort, Kaduna

Photographer Fiorilla Fransesco

Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

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Contents VOL 2 ISSUE 11

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CHAIRMAN’S FOREWORD Ahmed Dasuki

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EDITOR’S LETTER Yasemen Kaner-White

LAST SEASON AT FIFTH CHUKKER 10 MTN PATRONS CUP Teams play for pride – and passion for breast cancer awareness 13 ACCESS BANK UNICEF CHARITY SHIELD Fifth Chukker and UNICEF commemorate 10 years of solid partnership with another rousing tournament

INTERNATIONAL POLO HIGHLIGHTS 16 PINK POLO Pink was the order of the day as Cape Town A-listers gathered at Val de Vie Estate 19 ACCESS BANK POLO DAY Fifth Chukker and Access Bank Donate to UNICEF 22 2016 ARGENTINE HIGH GOAL SEASON The 2016 high goal season in Argentina kicked off in September

25 KEFFI RANCH POLO OPEN Keffi Ranch shines again with top-draw polo

WOMEN IN FOCUS 28 M ICHELLE OBAMA Poise, Purpose And Proof of what’s Possible 33 ARIANNA HUFFINGTON

A Tireless Titan of Transformation 37 MEREDITH MICHAELS-BEERBAUM Champion show jumper is a “Rolex Testimonee”

SPECIAL FEATURE 44 LOLA The Nigerian aviator is on a mission to become the first African pilot in history to fly around the world solo.

HOTELS 52 JUBILENT IN JOHANNESBURG Staying at Four Seasons, The Westcliff hotel ADVENTURES IN LUXURY 63 A MOMENT IN TIME

ART IN FOCUS 72 ART X LAGOS brilliantly curated showcase of the freshest contemporary art from the African continent ADVENTURES IN SPORT 81 GOLF

AT THE RIO OLYMPICS

One of the most significant landmarks in the history of the sport 84 PEARL VALLEY GOLF COURSE Located in South Africa; Franschoek and part of the Val de Vie Super Estate FEATURE DESTINATION 86 E SCAPE TO THAILAND It is hard to imagine that Phuket in Thailand was a fishing village 92 A BEACH LESS ORDINARY The World’s Best Beaches

WORLDWIDE SPORTS DIRECTORY 100 Twelve Months of Sports Around the World CUISINE SCENE 102 HURLEY HOUSE A boutique 10 en-suite bedroom hotel, though new, is already making waves 107 KINLOCH LODGE Located in the otherworldly Isle of Skye; Scotland

GOOD BOOKS

BOOK REVIEW 112 The Help 113 Season of Crimson Blossoms 116 WHO’S READING FIFTH CHUKKER 124 INTERNATIONAL POLO

CLUB DIRECTORY

UNICEF MESSAGE The 2016 UNICEF Fifth Chukker and Access Bank partnership has two folds, in the sense that we have once again come together for children and coincidentally we are talking of having achieved 10 years (2006 -2016) working for children. UNICEF is convinced this partnership has very positively touched the lives of thousands of children and well over 45,000 people in communities who in many respects have remained beneficiaries of our collective efforts to promote the rights of children with focus on education for orphans and vulnerable children and indeed those invisible ones who needs this support the most. We must remember always, the fact that, all children have the right to primary education which should be free and of good quality. This would help to ensure that all children have equal rights and opportunities to grow and develop to their full potential. Therefore, the choice to focus on basic education to guide this partnership is deliberate and strategic to give children a solid foundation in their journey to attaining greatness and limitless opportunities in life.

Through the Fifth Chukker and Access Bank 2015 support funds, UNICEF has constructed and equipped a computer library in Maraban Jos Primary School in Igabi Local Government which is second-to-none in Kaduna State. Other intervention support areas in schools over the years include rehabilitation of schools, scholarships, school uniforms, provision of water through the construction of boreholes, recreation centres, and provision of instructional materials, enhancing the general works on security and connecting schools with electricity with a view to providing and enabling environment for a conducive learning with little or no distractions. These efforts have proven worthwhile with evidence of progressive increase in the enrolment of pupils in these schools benefiting from this interventions.

To ensure completeness of monitoring of the schools and to institutionalise ownership, UNICEF has ensured the establishment of a functional School Based Management Committees (SBMC’s) made up of male and female members in the respective communities. Gladly, the partnership is steadily growing and expanding beyond the popular one-off annual Charity Shield tournament to all year round activities serving as a platform to advocate for children through advocacy, media engagement and other strategies including the involvement and participation of children to promote their rights through the partnership.

UNICEF is committed to this partnership for children and increasingly working to achieving a robust and result oriented collaboration which is already generating a wide range of public interest and readiness to join this laudable initiative.

At this stage, UNICEF sincerely appreciates Fifth Chukker and Access Bank in the journey so far in honour of children. Together, we shall deliver more quality results for children!

CHAIRMAN’S FOREWORD

“As the year turns, so do our predilections for new resolutions and fresh lifestyle choices we expect to make us healthier, happier and more accomplished. We want to read more books, go to the gym more often, lose weight, quit smoking, chase bigger dreams”

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elcome to a new season! As the year turns, so do our predilections for new resolutions and fresh lifestyle choices we expect to make us healthier, happier and more accomplished. We want to read more books, go to the gym more often, lose weight, quit smoking, chase bigger dreams... until, that is, real life intervenes, sometimes too forcefully and too soon.

Striking a more resourceful work-life balance to mitigate such exigencies is one of the overarching health and wellness conversations at the moment. Opinions vary, but those advocating premium sleep as the best trigger for sharper skills and higher productivity appear to be running away with the debate. So, sleep pods, anyone?

Still on Emirates, Fifth Chukker magazine is in the second year of a partnership arrangement with the airline and it has been working perfectly well for both parties. We also have comparative deals with South African Tourism Board and Wakanow, Nigeria’s leading online travel company. In all of those collaborations, we are pulling synergies to offer more attractive travel options to our respective customers.

I began with resolutions and will end with one. Ours at Fifth Chukker is to keep consolidating our corporate social responsibilities in the communities around us. With Access bank extending its sponsorship of the UNICEF Charity Shield polo tournament, this translates to many more years of lifting thousands of poor, vulnerable children and orphans in northern Nigeria from the shackles of poverty, disease and ignorance.

With so many great escapes to explore by travellers with increasingly insatiable appetite for new and exceptional experiences, tracking back to well beaten paths would always take some doing. But some destinations with enough incentives to pull them back in 2017 include Canada, which celebrates its 150th anniversary with year-long party and world food festival, free national parks access, and as long as 7-day layovers on Air Canada flights. Cape Town has perennially ranked at the top of best and most visited cities league, but another reason to go back this September is the opening of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa at the V&A Waterfront. For troubled Zimbabwe, jumbo jets will soon be disgorging passengers at a huge new airport near Victoria Falls, affording tourists the luxury of bypassing Harare straight to the safari outback.

Also, three years of robust breast cancer public awareness advocacy has also thrust Fifth Chukker to the forefront of the campaign to scale up free screening for women as the most effective first line of defense against the disease. We deeply appreciate the support of MTN in this endeavour through its sponsorship of the African Patrons Cup, a tournament we have dedicated to this cause.

Whether you’re on the go for business or pleasure, do try Emirates first class, if you can. They have a bunch of amazing new luxury amenities, including pyjamas with built-in moisturiser. The Jim-jams can retain these moisturizing properties beyond six washes.

With very best wishes,

BOARD MEMBERS ADAMU ATTA, BABANGIDA HASSAN, UMARU ALIYU, AYO OLASHOJU, KASHIM BUKAR SHETTIMA

Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

As Fifth Chukker resort continues to transform rapidly, we now have a greater capacity to keep adding value to your guest experience each time you visit or stay with us. And as we look forward to the pleasure of your company and patronage all this new season, I passionately share your expectations for a more profitable year ahead.

AHMED DASUKI Chairman, Board of Trustees

Fifth Chukker Magazine is a publication of Fifth Chukker Polo & Country Club Whilst every care has been taken in the compilation of this publication to provide up-to-date and accurate information, we cannot guarantee that inaccuracies will not occur. All material presented are used in good faith and whenever possible, permissions have been applied for. The publisher will not be held responsible for any loss, damage or inconvenience caused as a result of any inaccuracy or error within these pages.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

This 11th edition of our magazine, adorned by Fifth Chukker’s latest imposing installation; a handsome horse statue, is as internationally minded and varied in tantalising topics as its predecessors. We cover, as always, a global games round-up, delving into the polo playing antics from England, Nigeria, South Africa to Argentina, in such detail, that if you couldn’t attend, you’ll feel as though you were there. Further embracing the melting pot we inhabit, and knowing how important downtime is, when planning your next summer holiday, our beach guide is the perfect planning assistant. If like me, you haven’t yet taken yourself to Thailand, our in-depth look at the best the country can offer, will surely tempt you. Jo’burg, let me tell you (indeed I do – article within), is such a multilayered city, it really does deserve to be in the spotlight, unlike Cape Town, whose holiday offerings are obvious; to know and in turn appreciate Jo’burg, is to discover it and get under its skin. A man who embraces travel and is lucky enough to fly himself, is Nigerian aviator Ademilola Odujinrin aka Lola; the first African pilot to fly around the world, whose fascinating story is featured.

Another recent historical happening is of course the change in the US presidency; we take a look at the narrative of the woman

“This 11th edition of our magazine, adorned by Fifth Chukker’s latest imposing installation; a handsome horse statue, is as internationally minded and varied in tantalising topics as its predecessors. ”

who supported Obama throughout his term, Michelle. She’s not the only strong and influential woman in this edition however, Arianna Huffington, founder of hugely successful Huffington Post and Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, the first female show jumper to be ranked world number one and Rolex ambassador, is also highlighted. A sport renowned to be picked up with ease, wherever your travels may take you, is of course, golf. The golf at the Rio Olympics as well as my first ever golf lesson in sunny South Africa are detailed for you to enjoy. Lastly, the arts are not ignored, with a sneaky peak selection showcased of what to expect from Bonhams in future exhibitions, as well as a review of recent Art X Lagos showing-off a curated range of leading African artists’ work. With all the above, as well as compelling book reviews and my recounted culinary tales, you’re sure to find something within to spark your interest and spur you on to discover more, enjoy…

YASEMEN KANER-WHITE Editor yasemen@parmuto.com

Editor - YASEMEN KANER-WHITE Editorial Team - YUSUF SAAB, FATIMA UMAR Contributors - YASEMEN KANER-WHITE, LILBY SKAZ, JANETTE GRIESEL, IAN FORBES-COCKELL, FRANCES K WHITE, CAROLINE FROST, ANNA BLUNDEN, MICHAEL GEBRE-AB, ERNEST EKPENYONG, ROSS BIDDISCOMBE, LYN HOUGHTON, KERRY CHRISTIANI, JENNIFER NAGU Photography - SHEYI AFOLABI AND TONY RAMIREZ, additional contributors credited Design - TONI BARRINGTON, THE MAGAZINE PRODUCTION COMPANY www.magazineproduction.com

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LAST SEASON AT 5TH CHUKKER

MTN African Patrons Cup Teams play for pride – and passion for breast cancer awareness Lilby Skaz

C

onsistent with Fifth Chukker’s year-round CSR commitment, the 2016 African Patrons Cup tournament was again held in aid of breast cancer awareness. A dozen teams were entered for the high- and medium-goal cups, and the frenzied, entertaining start to the tournament pitched even higher to a stirring climax as defending champions, Keffi Ponys retained the Patrons Cup after wading through a field of five strong contenders.

Keffi Ponys (Aliyu Wadada, Hamisu Buba, Lerieux Hendricks and Jamilu Umar) had edged out Fifth Chukker in the semi final before defeating Abuja Rubicon 7-4 in a nervy final game. Rubicon (Senator Hadi Sirika, Idris Badamasi, Malik Badamasi and Jamilu Mohammed) waltzed into the final as favourites after dispatching Kano Lintex in the semis. But allowing Keffi to jump in front with two quick goals in the opening chukka suddenly made it an uphill struggle for Rubicon’s ambition.

Nonetheless, after a seemingly unassailable 5-2 lead – with

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two more chukkas to play – Keffi Ponys were jolted back with a spirited rally by Rubicon, momentarily closing the gap to 6-4. But Hamisu Buba and Wadada hit back with two more goals to clinch an emphatic 7-4 victory and keep their title for another year. Kano Titans (Hassan Fayad, Isa Kwame, Khalifa Ibrahim and Yusuf katako) were the fifth team in the mix for the much coveted title.

The final battle for the General Hassan Cup pitched two debutantes, Abuja Almat and Kaduna Amana Insurance, and produced an impressive tally of 11½ goals to the delight of the crowd. Amana (Ibrahim Kontagora, Ataf Abubakar, Suleiman Bello and Bello Buba) had managed to contain a rampant Almat (Ibrahim Musa, Idris Badamasi, Malik Badamasi and Maurice Ekpenyong) in the early exchanges to keep the score line at 2 1/2-4 at the end of the second quarter.

But there was no holding back Almat in the second half as Ibrahim, Idirs, Malik and Maurice each scored to down the weary Amana and emerge champions of the General Hassan Cup at the first time of asking.

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The other teams who contested the General Hassan cup were DeeBee Farms (Farouk Dangiwa, Mubarak Dangiwa, Lawal Mohammed and Yusuf Garba); Manarat (Jamilu Umar, Glory Ebano, Tata Ali and Musa Galadanchi); Liberty (Hassan Ramalan, Madi Buhari, Mukhtar Adahama and Tijani Aliyu); and Trademark (Nasir Lucat, Aliyu Umar, Abu Ibrahim and Lado Aliyu).

The Ambassador of Argentina, His Excellency Gustavo Dzugala, Marafan Shagari, Alhaji Bala Shagari, representative of Lamido Adamawa, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Muhammedu Barkindo Musdafa, Kaduna Polo Club President, Suleiman Abubakar and the Event & Sponsorship Manager MTN, Dola Bamgboye handed out prizes to winners and runners-up before the Nigerian Army band struck the national anthem to draw the curtains on yet another memorable polo championship.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS DAY

One week after the thundering hoofs and clattering mallets, Fifth Chukker and its Charity Ambassador, Niger state first lady Dr. Amina Abubakar Bello brought back women in their hundreds to the resort to espouse the very serious message behind the African Patrons Cup tournament: the urgent need to enlighten and shield more women from the ravages of breast cancer which has become the second biggest killer of Nigerian women after maternal mortality.

Guest speaker Dr Obinna shared the platform with the wife of Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Mrs Ladi Bala Bantex, commissioner for women affairs and social development, Hajiya Rabi M.G. Abdulsalam, and Mrs Zainab Ladan, wife of the Niger state secretary to the government. Each speaker urged that women be availed the means of regular testing to enhance early detection and treatment of breast cancer. “Screening centers must be conveniently accessible to the largest number of women to make the awareness efforts meaningful”, says Dr. Obinna.

A Breast Cancer survivor, Mrs. Dorothy Nuhu Akendva captivated the audience with a narrative of her odyssey through detection, diagnosis, surgery and recovery, as well as the emotional drain and prohibitive cost of treatment.

She urged government to offer free treatment and rehabilitation to women afflicted with the disease. She also called for counseling, spiritual and financial support for breast cancer patients and survivors to assist their full recovery.

Emamoke Ogoro, Senior Manager, Master Brand, MTN Nigeria thanked Fifth Chukker for its excellent corporate social responsibility and urged women to imbibe the messages from the session.

She also promised that MTN would continue to support platforms that promote women’s health and gender issues such as breast cancer awareness.

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LAST SEASON AT 5TH CHUKKER

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Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

POLO PEOPLE

Access Bank UNICEF Charity Shield Fifth Chukker and UNICEF commemorate 10 years of solid partnership with another rousing tournament Lilby Skaz

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he 10th anniversary of the partnership between UNICEF and Fifth Chukker Polo and Country club made the 2016 Access bank Unicef charity shield polo tournament a uniquely special event. For the past decade, this tournament has provided a high profile sporting platform for UNICEF to drive its commitment to the many orphans, vulnerable children and communities impacted by the HIV/AIDS pandemic in northern Nigeria.

The British High Commissioner and the Ambassadors of Poland, Argentina and Italy joined the Emir of Bauchi and the Governors of Niger and Kaduna states to commemorate this milestone with Fifth Chukker and UNICEF. The expanded focus of the charity shield polo tournament is now to reach out to more orphaned and vulnerable children in IDP camps scattered around northern Nigeria.

The opening week of the tournament started with a massive Children’s Day celebration when hundreds of children turned up at Fifth Chukker resorts to enjoy a fun-filled party. Sporting honours decided same week include the UNICEF cup for which Iyatu Farms defeated Kano STL Titans 5-41/2 in the final. Kano BUA narrowly overcame hard-fighting Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

Ibadan Jericho 5 1/2 – 5 to clinch the Argentine Ambassador’s Cup, and Seaman edged the ambitious Lagos Agad 4 1/2 – 4 to take the British High Commissioner’s trophy in another exciting subsidiary final.

The week ended with an assessment tour of Maraban-Jos Primary School, one of the institutions supported by UNICEF with funds from Access bank and Fifth Chukker. After a comprehensive upgrade, the school has seen pupil enrolment shoot up from 3000 to over 8000, presenting its benefactors with urgent fresh challenges. Olubusola Osilaja, Access bank Head of Corporate Communications says the partnership is open to scaling up its commitment to the school: “So far we have concentrated on the structural and physical environment and we shall continue to do so, but the effort must be matched with the quality of education these kids are getting”.

In support of Fifth Chukker’s pioneering CSR efforts in the MarabanJos host community, Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN) has awarded scholarships to two secondary school leavers in the community to further their education. At the final of the UNICEF cup, Director-General of the Peugeot Learning Center, Elizabeth Mordi announced a scholarship value of N310,000 each to Mr. Lubabatu Idris and Ms Saifullahi Shu’aibu.

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LAST SEASON AT 5TH CHUKKER

Team Access Bank Fifth Chukker celebrate the 2016 Charity Shield

Kaduna state Governor Nasir El-Rufai presents Access bank’s N10million donation to UNICEF

Manuel Crespo receives the MVP award from Access bank’s Busola Osilaja

Lagos Caverton lifts the Access bank cup

Wale Edun presents the Governor’s cup to Rotimi Makanjuola

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LAST SEASON AT 5TH CHUKKER

Both had been assessed and found suitable for the award by the elders in the community, according to PAN Head of Corporate Communications, Haroun Malami.

The departing UNICEF Country Representative, Jean Gough also celebrated her birthday at the tournament where she was entertained to a revue by pupils from one of the UNICEF-supported schools. She recounted her experiences in the four years she’s been in Nigeria and the many profound strides UNICEF and her developmental partners such as Fifth Chukker had made to elevate the lives of vulnerable children and their care-givers in northern Nigeria.

The final weekend of the Charity Shield brought the medium and high goal contenders into play. The Access bank cup was the first to be decided – in the presence of Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger state who later presented prizes to the victorious Lagos Caverton Sao Paulo team, as well as to the runners-up, Kaduna Kashton.

In the high-goal charity shield, Access Bank Fifth Chukker retained the championship after edging out MRS 8-7 in a thrilling and free-flowing final.

The match repeatedly swung both ways until Manuel Crespo nailed it for Fifth Chukker in the final chukker.

After prize presentations to teams and individuals, Access bank made its ritual N10,000,000 donation to UNICEF, this time through the Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai who was attending the polo tournament for the first time. The August visitor promptly extolled the Access bank- Fifth Chukker- UNICEF partnership for transforming the lives of thousands of children in Kaduna state and beyond through polo.

British High Commissioner Paul Arkwright, with Italian Ambassador Fluvio Rustico and and Sanusi Dantata

HRH The Emir nof Bauchi, Alh. Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu UNICEF Country Rep. Jean Gough, Adamu Atta, Governor of Niger state Abubakar Bello and Uteal Moitra

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PINK POLO

SOUTH AFRICA CINTRON

PINK POLO 2016 Pink was the order of the day as Cape Town A-listers gathered at Val de Vie Estate for Cape Town’s top breast cancer awareness event – the 7th Annual Cintron Pink Polo. The Val de Vie Polo Pavilion was abuzz with polo lovers, local and international VIP guests and cel ebrities such as Leigh-Anne Williams, Lee-Ann Liebenberg, Rosette Ncwana, Twala Ngambi and Chad Saaiman.

Janette Griesel

The Cintron Pink Polo has garnered mass support over the past 7 years and 2016 was no exception. Polo is synonymous with fashion, and this year guests were captivating in their polo chic Serenity and Rose Quartz inspired outfits. As guests ushered in, they walked into a transformed Val die Vie with the décor paying homage to this year’s theme and pantone colour of the year. From delicate pinks to blue and violet hues that could be spotted almost everywhere, Val die Vie Events together with the décor company, Something Different, creatively translated the theme while ensuring that every lounge had a different touch to it.

The Official Fashion Partners at the 2016 event – Luisa Spagnoli showcased their latest resort collection of classic looks on the catwalk with some sophisticated and timeless pieces. Admired for their sophistication, this iconic Italian fashion brand brought style, quality

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and elegance to the polo runway. Cars, more like fashion are an essential part of polo and this year Paarlberg BMW, the Official Car Partners, had a grand display of the latest top of the range models – the true definition of horse power.

The MC for the day, Nico Panagio, entertained and captivated guests with his style and charm while the Polo Commentator for the day, the animated Matthew Pohl, kept guests on the edge of their seats during the riveting high scoring 14 goal polo. Team Cintron, under the captaincy of Leroux Hendriks went home with the trophy with a 10-8 win against Julius Baer. George Morgan put on a stellar performance thus deserving the Most Valued Player Award. The best playing pony was Martin Venter’s Special. Swiss luxury watch brand, Jaeger LeCoultre were the official Time Keeper and not a single beat was missed – not on their watch.

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PINK POLO

Guests enjoyed stylishly curated experiences such as the Sisley and Tosca beauty activations, Vodacom Wi-Fi and charging station, the Samsung flower photo activation station, couture style cocktails by headline sponsor Cintron and the Gin Sponsor, Musgrave Pink Gin. This year, attendees had the opportunity to take a piece of the Pink Polo home by purchasing limited edition Cintron Pink Polo shirts and cocktail cups.

Fujifilm gave away cameras to two lucky guests during a fun divot stomping competition where guests had to look for tokens in the divots.

“We are proud to continue our association with this event which not only allows guests to experience world class 14 goal polo with all the embellishments, but also creates awareness and empowers women who are bravely facing all the challenges of treatment. This year was a major success and through our work with the Pink Polo and other initiatives we have been able to raise close to a R100 000.00 for breast cancer. Each year is a different experience and a wonderful combination of luxury and lifestyle. At Cintron World, we consider ourselves to be part of a global community and South Africa is a very essential part of our community” - Chelsea Brehm, Director of Marketing, from Cintron World

This year the Cintron Pink Polo partnered with the Fynbos Valley Gift Boxes initiative, a Paarl local business that is steadfast in their fight against breast cancer. The Blossom Box Boutique was brought to life on the day with a beautiful pop-up experience and gifting initiative of bespoke gift boxes. These contained locally sourced beauty and therapeutic products that inspire, motivate and treat women who are bravely fighting breast cancer.

Polo lovers could select a gift and write a note of encouragement, making the initiative a more personalized experience. These will be delivered to the St Stephen’s Oncology Centre in Paarl.

As the day drew to an end and the sun set behind the magical pink mountains, guests danced their hearts out to Jimmy Nevis’s electrifying performance. Sports 24 Taxis ensured that Cintron’s guests arrived home safe and sound – the perfect ending to an incredible day.

ABOUT THE CINTRON PINK POLO

Pink Polo South Africa began at the picturesque Val de Vie Estate in 2010. This year marks the 7th annual Cintron Pink Polo and it has since grown into one of South Africa’s most popular polo events and one of the few lifestyle events, which has raised the profile for breast cancer awareness in South Africa. Guests can expect to be on the edge of their seats for a sensational afternoon of legendary polo, a unique food and fashion experience and a notorious ambience of polo with a purpose.

ABOUT CINTRON WORLD

Cintron World is an “aspirational” luxury lifestyle brand that offers premium beverages with quality ingredients and great taste. Cintron World builds brands that represent an upscale lifestyle, which encourages people to look good and feel great by living a fashionable, productive, and healthy lifestyle. Cintron World believes in building community around these brand attributes, and that’s why the company founded the Cintron Polo Club, a leading international community of like-minded people that enjoy the lifestyle of Cintron and the awesome game of polo. Cintron also developed the Cintron Selfies for Survivors campaign, which is a global network that raises awareness for breast cancer testing, treatment and research.

BLOSSOM BOX BOUTIQUE

Cintron Pink Polo and Fynbos Valley Gift Boxes, have partnered to create an initiative called the Blossom Box Boutique. The goal of the gift box is to encourage and empower ladies undergoing chemotherapy with key items, which addresses motivational needs during their fight against cancer.

ABOUT THE ST. STEPHEN’S ONCOLOGY CENTRE

Based in Northern Paarl, the St. Stephens Oncology Centre and Sub-Acute Hospital provides consultations of all newly diagnosed cancer patients. Facilities and treatments includes for chemotherapy, radiotherapy, radiology and palliative care. Offering a holistic care programme which includes: social work meetings, monthly support groups, onsite mammograms and a strong network of psychologists, psychiatrists, dietitians and alternative therapy practitioners.

Images © Daniel Saaiman / Val de Vie Estate Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

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ACCESS BANK POLO DAY

Access Bank Polo Day Fifth Chukker and Access Bank Donate to UNICEF

By Hosting the Access Bank Polo Day At Guards Polo Club Abdul Imoyo

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s part of its continued support of UNICEF, Access Bank Group, along with Fifth Chukker hosted the ‘Access Bank Polo Day’ at the Guards Polo Club, Windsor, United Kingdom on Saturday the 16th of July 2016.

The annual event is the climax to the high-profile Access Bank/UNICEF Charity Shield Polo tournament in Nigeria, which is in its ninth year and aimed at reaching out to and highlighting the plight of vulnerable children and orphans and internationally displaced persons.

Based in Kaduna, Nigeria it is the biggest charity polo tournament in Africa and stimulates support for the work of UNICEF and Access Bank initiative across Africa. This year the Bank donated an additional N10-million to UNICEF for its campaign against HIV/AIDS among Nigerian children.

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A new introduction to this year’s was the Emir’s Cup in honour of the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II who was in attendance throughout the afternoon. For both polo games of the afternoon, His Highness made a ceremonial throw-in with the polo ball to begin each game.

The first game for the Emir’s Cup was between local team Delaney, patroned by Damian Duncan, and Keffi Ponies, patroned

by Ahmed Wadada. It was a tightly fought game with Diego White for Keffi Ponies scoring the first goal, followed quickly with a return from Damian Duncan for Delaney. By half time the score was at 3-3 but Delaney quickly stormed ahead with a beautiful goal set up by Pite Merlos for Duncan to score taking their lead to 7-4. Keffi ponies came back strongly in the final chukker scoring two goals to take the final score to 7-6, with Delaney winning.

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ACCESS BANK POLO DAY

For the second game of the afternoon, the Access Bank Charity Cup, guests were treated to something very rare in polo. Not only were all four members on the field of arguably the best polo team in the world, Adolfo Cambiaso’s La Dolfina, but they were also joined by Cambiaso’s son, Poroto (Adolfo Cambiaso Jr) and his daughter Mia Cambiaso. It was a fantastic game, showcasing the incomparable talents of the greats of Pelon Sterling, Pablo Macdonaugh, Juanma Nero and Adolfo. The teams were made up of Adamu Atta playing alongside Mia Cambiaso, Adolfo Cambiaso and Juanma Nero for Access Bank Fifth Chukker and Babangida Hassan alongside Adolfo Cambiaso Jr, Pelon Stirling and Pablo Macdonaugh.

There was great teamwork from both teams, with flashes of brilliance from the young stars. It was another tightly fought game with the final score finishing at 4-4.

Group Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Herbert Wigwe explained the reasons behind the Bank’s continued support for the Fifth Chukker UNICEF initiative. “We are conscious of our role as a change agent in Nigeria that can help institute socio-economic development through responsible business practice and environmental considerations,” he said.

“In addition, we are continually seeking ways through which more resources can be pooled towards supporting the children. We are part of the community and as such should support its wellbeing.”

His Highness, the Emir of Kano, made the prize giving to the teams to bring an end to a very successful day for Access Bank and Fifth Chukker, at one of the most beautiful polo clubs in the world.

Since the UNICEF/Access Bank initiative started, it has rebuilt two schools in Kaduna and, kept more than 8000 students in continuous education, while at the same time developing new school blocks and a computer literacy building all in a more secure and friendly school environment. The communities surrounding the schools are being supported with bore-holes for water, and sewing and grinding machines to secure employment and stimulate economic and social development.

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ARGENTINE OPEN

REVIEW OF THE

2016 Argentine High Goal season Major Iain Forbes-Cockell

La Dolfina, winners of the 2016 Argentine Open with their families

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he 2016 high goal season in Argentina kicked off in September, after the return of the top players in the world from their US, UK and European seasons. The first Open tournament was the Jockey Club Open, in San Isidro.

Often used by the top teams as a warm up for their ponies and to get the teams back into “four man” polo rather than the “pro-am polo” that they had played the previous eight months. It also provided an opportunity to test out player options prior to the big three Opens played at Tortugas, Hurlingham and the Argentine Open at Palermo.

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This was a season where there was a mixture of familiarity, with the sequence of tournaments, the rain delays and the inevitable La Dolfina versus Ellerstina finals but also a number of surprising changes, more of which below.

The first change was the innovative move by Adolfo Cambiaso to include Lia Salvo, a very talented 2 goal lady player, in his El Paso Polo Ranch La Dolfina team, which played the Jockey Club Open. Playing with Lia alongside Cambiaso were his La Dolfina team mates, Pablo Mac Donough and Juan Martin Nero. Handicapped at 32 goals, they made Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

ARGENTINE OPEN

© Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com

Pelon Stirling with his BPP Juan Martin Nero (La Dolfina)

Juan Martin Nero (La Dolfina) vs Polito Pieres (Ellerstina)

Umpires Negro Ferrari, Daniel Boudou and Gaston Dorignac

it to the final. A new team, Cria Yatay, with Magoo and Inaki Laprida, Joaquin Pittaluga and Lucas James played off 29 goals and lost by just one goal to 35 goal La Aguada Las Monjitas. Cria Yatay would feature later in this high goal season. Lia Salvo is the first ever woman to have played a final in the high goal season in Argentina. El Paso Polo Ranch La Dolfina’s historical final of the Jockey Club Open was on Saturday September 24 against La Aguada Las Monjitas, for whom it was the comeback of the four Novillo Astrada brothers - Alejandro, Eduardo Jr., Miguel and Ignacio; however, the brothers were beaten 16-12.

At the Tortugas Open, the tournament followed a predictable pattern, with the two giants of Argentine Open polo meeting in the final and the second-best teams in each of the two leagues, La Aguada Las Monjitas and Alegria, losing against them but winning against the two other teams, 35 goal El Paraiso and the 2015 season surprise newcomers, 33 goal Washington. 40 goal La Dolfina won the final against 39 goal Ellerstina by a surprisingly large margin of 18-12. Only seven goals were scored from penalties and this reflected the desire to play a more fluid running game. The change in this tournament and those that followed, was that Adolfo Cambiaso played six of his Dolfina Cuartetera clones. Most were six years old but his Cuartetera clone B06, only five years old, won Best Playing Pony (BPP) in the final as well as the AACCP BPP. This was an outstanding and unique affirmation of his clone programme with Alan Meeker’s Crestview Genetics.

At Hurlingham, the six highest handicapped teams were joined by the two teams that qualified through the Torneo Clasificatorio 90 Años AAP, 30 goal La Irenita, winners of the Camara de Diputados in the 2013 and 2014 seasons and the previously mentioned 29 goal Cria Yatay. Cria Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

Yatay and La Irenita lost all their matches, with particularly heavy defeats against La Dolfina (23-9) and Ellerstina (21-6) respectively but got an opportunity to play against the top teams, a useful preparation for the Argentine Open. There were two delays through rain and the last league matches were played at Pilar, to save the Hurlingham grounds for the semi-finals over the November 5th/6th weekend. La Dolfina beat El Paraiso 14-11 and Ellerstina beat Alegria 16-14 in those semifinals to set up the usual La Dolfina/Ellerstina final, delayed until Wednesday November 9th. Reeling from their defeat at Tortugas, Ellerstina were keen to prove that they can challenge their nemesis, La Dolfina. A fast and furious match ensued and in the last chukka, La Dolfina were sitting on a 9-6 lead. However, Gonzalito Pieres scored two goals in quick succession and seconds from regulation time, Facundo Pieres scored the equaliser, to take the match into overtime.

This was one of the most thrilling matches of the season and Gonzalito Pieres, who met the ball deep in Ellerstina’s half of the field, went on a long run, avoiding La Dolfina’s defence and scored the winning goal with a fantastic under the neck shot from about 70 yards out to get an emotional 10-9 win. La Dolfina had thus suffered their first defeat after a run of 39 wins since the Argentine Open final in 2012.

Finally, the high goal season ended with the pinnacle of polo tournaments in the world, the Argentine Open played at Palermo.

There was a change of format in this year’s tournament, with the introduction of a quarter-final round to give the second and third placed teams in the two leagues a second chance to make it to the semi-final stage. They played across leagues with the winners earning a place in the semi-finals against the league winners. On one hand this made for a short

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ARGENTINE OPEN Polito Pieres (Ellerstina)

Gonzalo Pieres (Ellerstina)

© Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com

© Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com

Pablo MacDonough (La Dolfina) vs Nico Pieres (Ellerstina)

Juan Martin Nero (La Dolfina) followed by Facundo Pieres (Ellerstina) All Images © Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com

Juan Martin Nero (La Dolfina)

© Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com

Maria Vazquez (Mrs Cambiaso)

© Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com

recovery time for the quarter final teams ponies and added two games to the schedule making ground maintenance an issue for the later matches and on the other hand it meant the two teams directly through to the semi-finals had ten days without a competitive match.

It was this change of format that produced two of the many exciting matches that took place. As usual, La Dolfina (Zone A winners) and Ellerstina (Zone B winners) won all three league matches and moved straight to their respective semi-final matches. However, things were not so straight forward further down the “pecking order”. In Zone A, Alegria secured second place with one loss and two wins. Third place went to qualifiers Cria Yatay (with Guillermo Terrera replacing Lucas James) who lost to La Dolfina and Alegria but surprised everyone with their unexpected 13-12 win against Washington. Cria Yatay and Alegria thus made it to the quarter-final match. In Zone B, La Aguada Las Monjitas secured second place and La Irenita third place and earned their quarter-final places.

In the quarter-final matches, Alegria had to fight hard to beat a determined La Irenita 13-11 and in the most surprising win of the tournament, Cria Yatay beat a disappointing La Aguada Las Monjitas 14-10, revenge for their defeat in the Jockey Club Open earlier in the season.

The semi-finals were contrasting matches. Cria Yatay were the first qualifier team in history to reach the semi-finals of the Open but all the exuberance and passion shown by them in their surprise quarter-final win was crushed in a 27-4 defeat by La Dolfina. The second semi-final was a different matter. Alegria, with Sapo Caset back from his injury, showed their intent by leading 3-1 in the first and 6-5 in the fourth before Ellerstina levelled 6-6 at halftime. Ellerstina were still not firing on all cylinders and Alegria were ahead 9-7 in the fifth but Ellerstina held

Alegria scoreless for two chukkas while they moved into a 13-9 lead and ended up winning 15-11.

The familiar La Dolfina/Ellerstina final ensued. Ellerstina started well and were leading 2-1 after the first, 6-5 in the third and 7-6 at halftime. However, La Dolfina levelled 9-9 after the fifth and 11-11 after the sixth. Where the match turned, in my opinion, was in the seventh chukka, when Facundo Pieres checked his speed before hitting an offside backhand shot and just before he connected, Pelon Stirling struck the ball forward with a nearside forehand shot and scored to break the deadlock.

La Dolfina moved to 12-11 and never looked back. Two more goals that chukka to end it 14-11 and a further two goals in the last to Ellerstina’s solitary goal ensured yet another La Dolfina win 16-12.

In summary, the 2016 season was full of twists and turns between the familiar and the new. Lia Salvo, the first lady to play in and win a high goal team (above 30 goals). Cambiaso’s clones were a revelation but are they the “new standard” or is there still a place for natural breeding and embryo transfer? Ellerstina’s victory at Hurlingham breaking La Dolfina’s 39 match winning streak. The Argentine Open’s new format.

The two qualifier teams, La Irenita and Cria Yatay making the Argentine Open quarter-finals and Cria Yatay becoming the first qualifier team to make it to the Argentine Open semi-finals. The new attitude to umpiring, where fouls are blown if danger is involved rather than them being “manufactured” allowed matches to flow better and be far more interesting for spectators. Cambiaso was high scorer in the Argentine Open with 40 goals. Although Ellerstina and La Dolfina are without doubt the strongest two teams of the last few years, this domination by two teams has happened in the past. We should count ourselves fortunate to be able to see this level of polo and the skill level on display.

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Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

POLO OPEN

Keffi Ranch P O LO O PE N Keffi Ranch shines again with top-draw polo Ernest Ekpenyong

President cup final between Fifth Chukker and Keffi Ponys

Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

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POLO OPEN

Aside from its trademark polo extravaganza and the customary parade of royalty and VIP’s, the formal commissioning of a striking new clubhouse by Nigeria’s former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar was the major highlight of the third Keffi Ranch Polo Open. The tournament was held between the 15th and the 20th of November, accompanied by excellent weather in the Nassarawa state town.

Since opening its gates in 2015 as a sport/tourism enterprise, the Keffi Ranch Polo Open has since become a major humanitarian force – benefitting orphanages and offering scholarships to less privileged families through the Wadada Education Foundation. The man behind it all, Honourable Aliyu Wadada says his little efforts have been yielding good results. “Keffi Ranch will continue to use this polo platform to leverage the socio-economic transformation of the state”, he stated. A truly massive crowd turned up for the six days of positive and pulsating polo action in several handicap categories. Pivoted by Argentine and South African professionals, Fifth Chukker (Babangida Hassan, Adamu Atta, Tom de Bruin and Martin Jauregui) and Keffi Ponys (Aliyu Wadada, Bello Buba, Leurex Hendricks and David Evans) squared off for the high-goal crown. Fifth Chukker eventually triumphed over two robustly contested matches to win the President Cup and the Governor Cup respectively.

In the medium-goal National Assembly cup final, Almat (Maurice Ekpenyong, Idris Badamasi, Malik Badamasi and Ibrahim Musa) secured a 10-6 victory over Iyatu Farms (Aliyu Tijani, Hamisu Buba, Rabiu Mohammed and Kabiru Seidu). Furthermore, Bauchi Dokaji (Suleiman Shema, Atiku Seibu, Ibrahim Mohammed and Halliru Jika) outpaced DeeBee Farms (Baba Dawule, Abdulwahab Sani Stores, Hussain Ahmadu and Ashraf Yahaya) to win the Atiku Abubakar Cup. Other trophies decided in the week-long tournament include the Emir of Keffi cup which was won by Husna (CSP Usman, Nura Kangiwa, Lado Aliyu and Musty Junaid), while the Oba of Lagos Cup was lifted by Manarat (Najib Galadanci, Lt. Col. Y Bello, Hamisu Buba and Jamilu Umar). Bringing another very successful tournament to a close, prizes were handed out by some of the several dignitaries present, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Speaker of the National Assembly, Yakubu Dogara; former Speaker, Dimeji Bankole; Minister of defense, General Mansour Dan-Ali and the Minister of Women Affairs, Aisha Al-Hassan.

Others were the Emir of Keffi, Alhaji Shehu Usman Yamusa; Emir of Nassarawa, Alhaji Hassan Ahmed II; Emir of Lafia, Dr. Isa Mustapha Agwai and Emir of Suleija, Alhaji Awwal Ibrahim. The event was also graced by a former National Assembly deputy speaker, Emeka Ihedioha; Senator Abdullahi Adamu; the Ambassador of Poland, Andrezj Dycha and the Ambassador of Argentina, Gustavo Dzugalla.

In only two years of existence, Keffi ranch has steadily grown in stature and allure as both an international polo venue and a business/tourism retreat. It’s a mere 30-minute drive from Abuja and this proximity has made it an attractive escape for both the local and expat communities in Nigeria’s capital city.

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Fifth Chukker receive the President cup from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. He is flanked by the Minister of Women Affairs, Aisha Al-Hassan Minister of Defence, Gen. Mansour Dan -Ali (left) and Minister of State for Works and Housing, Mustapha Baba Shauri

Ambassador of Spain, Alfonso Barnuevo (left) and Ambassador of Argentina, Gustavo Gzugalla

L-R; Ambassador of Argentina, Gustavo Dzugalla, Adamu Atta, Aliyu Wadada, Ambassador of Spain, Alfonso Barnuevo, Dawule Baba and guest

Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

Michelle Obama POISE, PURPOSE AND

PROOF OF WHAT’S POSSIBLE Caroline Frost

Official portrait of First Lady Michelle Obama in the Green Room of the White House, Feb. 12, 2013. (Official White House Photo by Chuck Kennedy)

WOMEN IN FOCUS

W

ith President Barack Obama’s history-making US presidency coming to an end, there will be many ready to tally up his outcomes – from Guantanamo and ISIS to Obamacare – and debate whether the weight of his contribution to America and beyond goes beyond the racially symbolic of being the nation’s first African-American commander-in-chief.

However, there will be few who dispute that his best ever decision came 16 years before he set foot in the White House, when he asked Michelle LaVaughn Robinson to marry him. For her presence by his side over the last eight years – charming but impassioned, dazzling but dedicated – has been inestimable in stamping the Obama legacy as one of class, charisma and grace under pressure. Now, as they prepare to take their departure from the South Lawn for the final time, as many tears will fall for Michelle as for Barack, hence the rising clamour for her to seek her husband’s office for herself in four years’ time.

This exalted, hard-earned status is many miles away from Michelle Obama’s first experience of interacting with the establishment, as a young student applying for Princeton, back in the early 1980s. She still recounts her detractors – those high school teachers who thought that, as the daughter of a blue-collar African-American family on Chicago’s South Side, her application for the Ivy League institution was “reaching too high”. Not only did she get in, she graduated, she went on to Harvard Law School for her postgraduate law degree, and soon started work at Chicago Law Firm Sidley Austin. There, she was asked to mentor a young trainee lawyer working as a summer associate. His name was Barack Obama.

To anybody who asked what kind of First Lady she would be, Michelle regularly said, “I won’t know until I’m there.” However, her previous record in Chicago would give observers plenty of clues. Soon after her marriage, she quit her law firm to move into a series of senior jobs in the public sector. She described as the happiest professional period in her life her time working for the city’s Public Allies, a nonprofit organisation encouraging young people to work on social issues, and this same passion for creating an inclusive society was evident from her first days in the White House.

Although she began relatively tentatively, similar in approach to her First Lady predecessors, supporting military families, it was clear where her interests lay. She took on America’s obesity crisis with the ‘Let’s Move!’ campaign, and footage of Michelle Obama in sneakers skipping with school children became standard White House publicity material.

She said she wanted to work with kids when they were young, “so they don’t’ have these dire challenges when they’re older”. She supported her cries for healthy eating by planting the White House Kitchen Garden, the first of its kind since Eleanor Roosevelt’s days, and later published a book on the same subject.

She soon launched a mentoring programme for young girls, welcoming high school girls to the White House on many occasions during her eight years there. She took particular delight in surprising students in classrooms, then enveloping them in one of her famous hugs. After her own experience at Princeton, Michelle Obama remains passionate Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

© Michelle Obama@FLOTUS/Twitter

During a video taping for the 2015 World Expo in the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House. © White House

First Lady Michelle Obama hugs a young girl during a “Get Out The Vote” rally at Canyon Springs High School in Las Vegas, Nev., Nov. 1, 2010.

(Official White House Photo by Samantha Appleton)

50th Anniversary of Bloody Sunday and the Selma to Montgomery civil rights marches (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

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WOMEN IN FOCUS

President Barack Obama watches as First Lady Michelle Obama dances with students during a Diwali candle lighting and performance at Holy Name High School in Mumbai, India, Nov. 7, 2010. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

about education – one of her project directors calls her “school counsellor in chief”.

By her husband’s second term, she was in a higher gear, with two wide-ranging education campaigns to her name – Reach Higher and Let Girls Learn. The former supported her husband’s goal of America boasting the world’s highest proportion of college graduates.

The initiatives – more exposure to opportunity, encouraging education planning, recruiting counsellors – all made clear Michelle’s aim.

She simply wanted every college student to take charge of their future, the way she had.

Let Girls Learn was an equally personal exercise. If Michelle’s own background gave her an insight into the challenge some girls still find in obtaining the education they deserve, she also learned how much harder still it is in some parts of the world, where children are also battling low survival rates, conflict, crisis, poor nutrition. She wanted to expand opportunities for adolescent girls everywhere, including such troubled regions, and wherever in the world she

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spoke on this subject, it was with conviction, knowledge and hope.

For these projects, she travelled extensively, taking her message from Mexico to the Middle East. In her first official visit to the latter, she delivered a powerful speech at the World Innovation Summit for Education in 2015.

She was no stranger to the power of a picture, either, sharing an image of herself holding a #BringBackOurGirls poster, lending her star wattage to the campaign to rescue young girls kidnapped in Nigeria.

When she was reflecting on her Kitchen Garden and battle for good nutrition, she could have been referring to her many personal projects when she explained: “I want to leave something behind that we can say, ‘Because of this time that this person spent here, this thing has changed.’”

Michelle revealed recently that the pressures of power in the Washington goldfish bowl had brought her closer to husband – “We can’t leave. We’re stuck in here together,” she joked.

And, just as Barack Obama loosened his tie towards the end of his eight years in office, so his wife’s smile grew even wider, making cameo appearances in US TV shows like ‘Law and Order’ and belting out a number for Carpool Karaoke. In 2013, she out-shone many a screen superstar with a surprise appearance at the Oscars, where she presented the Best Picture Award for ‘Argo’.

With her political force and unquestioned moral compass, it has become almost incidental that she has also emerged a style icon, gracing the covers of Vogue, and sending fashion bloggers fluttering with her dazzling choices.

She caused a stir by becoming the first First Lady to don a sleeveless dress for her husband’s State of the Union speech – only fitting after so many hours in the White House gym, often at the crack of dawn – and topped it all off with a stunning chainmail gown for her final state dinner in October. Despite her access to the world’s top designers, she showed her sense of seemliness in her style, too – donning sweaters Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

WOMEN IN FOCUS

and skirts from high street chains at a time when her country was still emerging from deep recession. Her patronage of any one designer has been estimated to be worth $14million to the company in terms of a marketing boost.

After eight years in the White House, during which she said giving up her anonymity was the biggest sacrifice, Michelle Obama made no secret of her enthusiasm to return to civilian life.

Despite this, she emerged as one of the great forces of the Democrat campaign trail for 2016, speaking out for her husband’s one-time rival, then his Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, and lending the whole campaign her memorable family mantra, “When they go low, we go high.”

It was only when Trump finally crossed the line with his taped remarks about groping women that Michelle Obama allowed her fury to be recognised, revealing in a memorable speech in New Hampshire that his language had “shaken her to the core”.

Despite her clear partisanship throughout the campaign, Michelle has joined her husband in maintaining a dignified public front and vowing to work with Trump to ensure a smooth transition. She explained in her final interview as First Lady, “It is important for the health of this nation. We are going to be there… and do whatever we have to do to make sure he is successful. Because if he succeeds, we all succeed.”

This, plus her gesture to keep her door open to future First Lady Melania, comes after an incumbent’s campaign unique for its racist language, its deliberate division-making, and points to perhaps Michelle Obama’s biggest legacy, so far, in public life – taking the blows of political opponents and rendering them powerless, even as she admitted being confused by the ‘Angry Black Woman’ epithet, saying: “You feel, ‘Wow, where did that come from?

You don’t even know me. But then you think, this isn’t about me. It’s about the person or people who write it.”

So, bowing out of the White House years with a huge platform and heady popularity, what of the future? She says herself once again, “I won’t know until I’m there.” Michelle Obama has always been open about the strains on her family imposed by public life, and she has so far rejected any suggestion of running for office herself, for this reason. “People don’t really understand how hard this is. It’s not something you cavalierly just sort of ask a family to do again.”

Whatever Michelle’s private desires, there are many clamouring for her to follow in her husband’s footsteps, and run for the world’s biggest job in four years’ time. A black woman in the White House? Just because something is unprecedented doesn’t mean it is impossible.

Michelle Obama has already proved that time and time again.

Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

First Lady Michelle Obama greets third graders at the Ferebee Hope Elementary School in Washington, D.C., after attending a meeting with Communities In Schools board members, May 13, 2009.

(Official White House Photo by Samantha Appleton) First Lady Michelle Obama, accompanied by daughters Sasha and Malia, and Marian Robinson, jumps rope as children demonstrate games during a visit to the City Wall in Xi’an, China, March 24, 2014. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

A great moment captured by Amanda Lucidon of the First Lady and daughters Sasha and Malia during their visit to the Great Wall of China. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

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ARIANNA

HUFFINGTON A TIRELESS TITAN OF TRANSFORMATION Caroline Frost Arianna faces the press - © Philippe Moreau Chevrolet

WOMEN IN FOCUS

E

veryone knows when Arianna Huffington is in the room. Even if you haven’t noticed the big blonde wave of hair, or heard her unmistakable Greek tones – defiantly intact after 36 years living Stateside - you’re aware of a feeling of excitement, expectation, the sense that anything is possible – which, in her case, it is, as has been proved time and time again.

Then her gaze at some point turns to you – she never misses a face – and it’s like being tazered with curiosity. If you’re lucky and this turns to a smile, you feel glorious, suddenly a member of the world’s coolest club – even if it is a large one, whose roll-call extends across several continents, corresponding to the different chapters in what is, by any measure, an extraordinary life.

Frequently near the top of many a list of global influencers, makers and shakers, you would think this self-made woman would be a figurehead of the ‘going it alone’ brigade. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Arianna herself pins down all her achievements, her global status, her enormous fortune, on one man’s refusal to marry her. Of course, being Arianna Huffington, this rejection came from someone equally special. She met Bernard Levin, the UK’s celebrated broadcaster, journalist, the renowned cultural sage for his age – which happened to be more than twice that of Arianna’s – in 1971 on the BBC’s music quiz ‘Face the Music’.

She fell in love and enjoyed the fruits of his cultural mentoring for nearly a decade.

On his death in 2004, she wrote: “He wasn’t just the big love of my life, he was a mentor as a writer and a role model as a thinker.” What he refused to be was a husband and father and, by 1980, Arianna realised her wish to have a family would only be fulfilled elsewhere. It was time to go – in her case, to New York.

And so began another chapter of a life that had already seen 16-year-old Ariadne-Anna Stasinopoulou move to Britain from her native Athens, where her mother Elli had been a formative influence on her go-getting attitude. Her mother “made me believe that I could try whatever I wanted and that if I failed she wouldn’t love me any less,” Arianna later told the BBC World Service. Once in the UK, she studied economics at Girton College and became the first foreign president of the Cambridge Union. Her legendary networking skills were also honed on these lawns, where John Selwyn Gummer and David Mellor were early chums. Three decades later, long after her departure from these shores, there is still many a UK-based Huffington Post interview secured on the basis of, “Happy to oblige. Of course, I knew Arianna at Cambridge.”

Her social surefootedness on both sides of the Atlantic has seen her described as “the most upwardly mobile Greek since Icarus” and, sure enough, in America in 1985, it was through another fortunate alliance that Arianna began to make herself known. She met Texan multi-millionaire Michael Huffington, married him a year later and set about supporting his run for Congress with a zeal that astounded her husband’s political agent Ed Rollins. “Ruthless, unscrupulous and ambitious” were three of his epithets for Arianna during that time. Whatever she did, it worked, with the couple moving to California for Michael’s political career and having two daughters together.

All seemed complete for the woman who’d wanted a family so badly, but the reality didn’t match the image. Despite their initial success as a political power couple, Michael’s bid for the US Senate failed in 1994, and the marriage broke down the following year, with Michael later revealing he was gay and becoming a tireless campaigner for LGBT rights.

However, just as her personal life took a battering, Arianna’s professional life continued to evolve. She had never stopped writing, with biographies of Maria Callas and Pablo Picasso under her belt. Even as early as 1973, under Levin’s aegis, Arianna had published ’The Female Woman’, a rebuke to Germaine Greer’s influential tome, in which Arianna wrote that the only people helped by the women’s lib movement were those with “strong lesbian tendencies”.

Her appeal to the right wing continued through the 1990s, particularly when she started a website in 1998, optimistically named Resignation.com, that called for Bill Clinton’s departure following the Monica Lewinsky scandal. “Take responsibility,” was her rallying call.

However, never one to miss a change in the cultural wind and strengthening her focus on the need for a more active government, Arianna’s tirade against

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© Charles William Pelletier

Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

WOMEN IN FOCUS

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WOMEN IN FOCUS

corruption, both personal and corporate, soon switched targets. She began openly criticising her former Republican allies, particularly George W Bush and Dick Cheney, in her book ‘Pigs at the Trough’, and even ran as an independent candidate against Arnold Schwarzenegger for governor of California in 2003.

Her fury reached its zenith in 2004 with Bush’s re-election. Recognising the role the media had played in this outcome, Arianna hosted a meeting with allies that would result in the inception, a year later, of the Huffington Post – a novel combination of news aggregation and collective blogging, with a palpably leftwing slant.

To ensure the site’s success with non-political readers, Arianna, who’s not called “the Edmund Hillary of social climbing” without reason, once again reached for the phone. Her first week’s bloggers included Larry David, Gary Hart, John Cusack and Walter Cronkite.

However, not every contributor was a celebrity writer, and the free posts submitted by voluntary bloggers would prove her biggest controversy, later withstanding a lawsuit.

Arianna appeared relaxed about the prospect, telling the Guardian: “Nobody made these people blog. They blog because it has a value to them. They want the distribution.

They want to be heard.”

Growing in influence and reach, with its mixture of passionate politics and winktipping celebrity coverage, the Huffington Post’s place in the media firmament was made concrete with its sale to AOL for $315million in 2011. Arianna herself pocketed a cheque for a reported $21million-plus of that impressive pie, and was named ‘Editor-In-Chief’. International editions soon appeared across the world including, most satisfactorily for the former Ms Stasinopoulou, a Greek site in 2014. No wonder she said of her job, “I want to stay forever.”

Not so fast. Despite the growth in influence, readership and profit of the site, even becoming the first digital news outlet to receive a Pulitzer Prize in 2012, it seemed, for Arianna, there was just one more idea brewing.

There had been criticism from the start of the site that her ever-spinning Rolodex, the stunning list of contacts and exclusive access to just about everyone in the world that had helped get the Post off the ground, was becoming a potential conflict of interest for detached reporting by self-respecting, scoop-seeking reporters. This was exacerbated by Arianna’s taking up a boardroom role at Uber in April 2016, just when the driver-rental app company was the subject of much investigation over “drowsy driving”.

There was no doubt that Arianna was in possession of enough money and power to keep most people happy – a reported $50million fortune and a top-hundred ranking in Forbes’ 2016 Most Powerful Women list, to be specific. However, she had been for some while steering the Post in the direction of the ‘Third Metric’, namely a combination of well-being, wisdom, wonder and giving back.

It was probably no coincidence that she had spotted the boom in the wellness industry as a whole and, like all good brand-shapers, Arianna knew the value of her own origin story.

Back in 2007, she had fallen over through over-work and stress, and fractured her own cheekbone. From then on, we learned, she had dedicated herself to a better work/ life balance - becoming a champion of switching off, installing ‘wellness rooms’ and ’sleep pods’ in Huffington Post newsrooms, and writing about it all in two bestselling books.

And sat back and relaxed? Not so much. Instead, in 2016, Arianna, now aged 66, founded a brand new company inspired by these ideas of balance and, above all, sleep.

With Thrive Global, she has set about building a platform to offer health apps, wellness programmes, seminars, workshops, scented candles, all based around the idea that meditating, chilling out, doing less, is the best way of guaranteeing that you will become more productive, more resourceful, more like her, in fact.

If this sounds slightly paradoxical, at least Arianna gave up the other job to do it, announcing her departure from the Huffington Post editor’s desk in November 2016.

“Running both companies would have involved working around the clock, which would be a betrayal of the very principles of Thrive I’ve been writing and speaking about,” she said at the time.

Whether this will be her final hurrah remains open to question, particularly as she once described the Huffington Post as, definitively, her “last act”. For now, sleep is Arianna Huffington’s official focus, but as she’s shown in her life so far, a new idea is never far away, and hers is not a mind that rests for long.

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Arianna with husband Michaell Huffington and their two daughters

Arianna with Jennifer Aniston

Arianna with Daily Show host Trevor Noah

Arianna with Richard Branson on plane © David Prager

Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

A TIMELESS CHAMPION Champion show jumper Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum is a ‘Rolex Testimonee’, one of a select group of elite sportswomen and sportsmen who excel in their chosen sport and have earned an exclusive sponsorship deal with Rolex. Here, she reflects on key moments in an extraordinary riding career… Anna Blunden

PEOPLE PROFILE

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ime continues moving forward, but special moments are never forgotten. That’s especially true for celebrated champion and Rolex Testimonee, Meredith MichaelsBeerbaum. Born on the 26th of December in 1969, Los Angeles (US), Michaels-Beerbaum is the first female show jumper to be ranked world number one. Her career is a catalogue of remarkable achievements, each one reflecting a special moment in time.

Michaels-Beerbaum first started showing signs of success in 1983, at the age of 14. Competing in the Senator’s Cup at the Washington International Horse Show – an amateur competition for the best young riders in the United States, the then teenager rode an ex-grand prix horse in the event, a horse she had been saving especially for the competition. “I never forgot that moment because I won and the prize was a gold Rolex watch, my first ever.”

Growing up in California, she always dreamed of winning a gold medal at the Olympics: “I still have a short autobiography, which I wrote at school as a 10-year-old. I had to explain in the essay what I wanted to achieve in the future. I stuck a photo of a show jumper on the page and put a caption underneath saying ‘Meredith Michaels wins Olympic gold’.”

“The 1984 Games were held in Los Angeles, and for me that represented the pinnacle of athleticism. My stepfather bought tickets to the final of the show jumping, but unfortunately we misread the start time on the day of the event and actually missed the competition – it was terrible!”

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The US team went on to win gold that year and the then 15-year-old Michaels-Beerbaum watched every moment on television. It was many years later, after marrying German show jumper Markus Beerbaum and becoming a naturalised German, that she finally fulfilled her dream of riding at the Olympics, first in 2008 (Beijing), in 2012 (London) and most recently in 2016 (Rio). This year Michaels-Beerbaum helped the German Team win Bronze in the show jumping competition, adding another medal to her ever-growing cabinet of success.

Michaels-Beerbaum says she keeps all her equestrian mementos from the past, although some are still at her family home in the United States.

“I came to Europe in 1991 to turn professional with only a backpack on my shoulders and a pair of spurs in my hand. But I have won plenty of trophies since.”

She trained at the stable of legendary German rider Paul Schockemöhle, in Mühlen, Germany, planning to stay for only one summer, but it soon became three and the start of a new life in Germany. It was during that time that she met Markus Beerbaum, her husband to be. “Moving to Europe was certainly the most significant catalyst in my career; the second was changing my nationality and becoming German – that was a major decision. One underlying memory that I attribute to that moment is the number of people telling me how a woman would never, ever, be put on the national championship show jumping team in Germany. Fortunately, they were wrong.”

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Michaels-Beerbaum’s parents were very supportive of her staying in Europe and quitting her studies at Princeton University.

“The hardest part for them to accept was when I decided to change my nationality and become a German,” she says.

After Michaels-Beerbaum’s move, her riding career quickly went from strength to strength. “My first professional win was the Maastricht Grand Prix. There was no prize money but I won a city car. I was the happiest person on the face of the earth.” A string of achievements followed and her exceptional results were recognised in 2005, with an invitation to become a Rolex Testimonee.

“I was one of Rolex’s first equestrian Testimonees – it was a great honour to be welcomed into the Rolex family and associated with such a prestigious brand. I was lucky enough to win my first Rolex watch when I was 14, so I knew the importance of the Rolex name. Only the very best sportsmen and women are invited to represent Rolex and that meant everything to me,” says Michaels-Beerbaum.

Her trophy cabinet at her home in Germany is testament to that phenomenal talent, as one of the sport’s most successful riders. She remains the only woman, and one of only three people to have ever claimed three World Cup Final victories – first in Las Vegas (US), in 2005; then the Rolex World Cup Final in Gothenburg (Sweden), in 2008; and finally the Rolex World Cup Final again in Las Vegas, in 2009.

“My second World Cup Final win in Las Vegas was my most perfect victory. I won each of the three legs, and my horse Shutterfly and I jumped without any faults. It was also an extremely emotional time for me, as my stepfather passed away at the age of 69 just six weeks before the show. He was one of the main reasons why I was where I was in the sport – he supported me for many, many years! He was the one who took me to horse shows and spent all the money that he had to buy me horses.”

Since winning her first watch in 1983, Michaels-Beerbaum has built up a collection of Rolex timepieces, each one witness to her glittering career. “I always wear one of my Rolex watches when I’m riding, and I tend to rotate them every 3-4 months – I definitely see them as my lucky charms,” she claims. “Away from show jumping, if I go scuba diving, I’ll make sure that I put on my Yachtmaster.”

“Without a doubt, my favourite Rolex watch is the Datejust in white gold, which I won at my second World Cup Final victory in Gothenburg, 2008. Engraved with ‘Rolex Champion’ on the back, it’s a watch that reminds me of one of my most glorious

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moments as a show jumper. I remember the Final because I entered the arena knowing that I couldn’t afford to knock any fences down. Many of the other riders hit the last fence, so I had to go clear to win. To make matters worse, Shutterfly was so nervous in the warm-up ring that he refused to jump! He was very sensitive and he could feel the tension but I just trusted him and we went into the ring and made it happen!”

In February 2010 a new chapter in Meredith’s life began when she welcomed her daughter Brianne Victoria to the world. Despite her concerns about returning to the saddle, in September 2010 she was competing at the 2010 Kentucky World Equestrian Games, and even won Team gold.

Given Michaels-Beerbaum’s long-term affiliation with Aachen, it was only fitting that in 2011 she retire her globally renowned and much loved horse, Shutterfly. He was the world’s most successful show jumper and together they reached the very pinnacle of equestrian sport. Even with Shutterfly stepping down from elite competition, Michaels-Beerbaum continued to retain her status at the highest level and in 2015, she lead Germany to Team silver at the European Championships in Aachen.

“I went into the competition with a brand new horse, Fibonacci.

I think we were both nervous but the horse was fantastic. I had two mistakes; without them, I definitely would have been on the individual podium. I was so pleased the Team won the silver medal. I also took huge strength from the performance of Fibonacci,” said the champion rider.

World number one for 24 months and the first woman in history to represent Germany in a Championship event, her continued accomplishments have set precedence for successful and aspiring showjumpers around the world. Michaels-Beerbaum’s continued pursuit of perfection is synonymous with Rolex, and reflects their core values of excellence and precision.

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LOLA The Nigerian aviator is on a mission to become the first African pilot in history to fly around the world solo.

As the sun sets over the Gulf of Aden, a large crowd is gathering on the tarmac of Djibouti’s Ambouli International Airport. As Djibouti has emerged as one of Africa’s leading cargo and transport hubs, this small country in the Horn of Africa has been no stranger to international flights in recent years. What sets this flight apart is its pilot, Ademilola “Lola” Odujinrin.

Dawit Michael Gebre-ab MBE

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SPECIAL FEATURE

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he distinguished crowd, which includes the chairman of Air Djibouti, begins to stir as the light single-propeller aircraft comes into view on the horizon. Lola’s historic voyage began back in June, with a challenging transatlantic crossing from Washington, D.C. to North Weald airfield in the United Kingdom.Since then Lola has been navigating European airspace, with stops in Rome, Malta and Greece before touching down in Egypt.

But it is the Djibouti leg of the journey which is special for the Nigerian. It is a kind of homecoming. Lola flies as a commercial pilot for the national flag carrier, Air Djibouti.

The Red Sea airline re-launched earlier this year and is one of two main sponsors of his historical and adventure flight, named Project Transcend. The project aims to inspire young people to achieve their goals regardless of their personal circumstances. It also aims to support carefully selected charities which are transforming lives on the African continent, with the backing of private sector professionals.

As the plane touches down, the crowd moves into place to welcome its adopted son. Although not even halfway through his marathon journey, he has come a long way.

As a young boy Lola harboured dreams of flying around the world. He says: “Fewer than 115 people have completed a solo circumnavigation of the globe by air, and it’s been my dream since my youth to join them.” Inspired by his uncle who was a commercial pilot, he saved to achieve this dream, working two jobs and qualifying for his private pilot license.

Today he stands on the edge of history.

He looks surprisingly relaxed as he emerges from his small plane to greet the waiting dignitaries. Surprising because it’s not always been a straightforward journey – he was forced

Air Djibouti and DFTZ (Djibouti Free Trade Zone) both sponsor this historical journey

Passion for speed and motion, Lola riding a Harley in Djibouti

The Cirrus aircraft Lola chose to do his round the world solo flight, parked outside the VIP terminal of Djibouti International airport

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SPECIAL FEATURE

to turn around on a recent leg from Malta to Egypt because his aircraft’s electrical power generator failed as night drew in, with less than an hour before he lost all electrical systems including communication. Lola and his team are hoping there won’t be any more close calls. But there is still a long way to go, and many challenges ahead. His journey will continue through Asia, Australia and then island hopping, before the longest sector between Hawaii and California. From there he intends to set a further aviation milestone with the fastest US coast-to-coast flight in a single-prop aircraft.

For now he is on home turf. Lola has been flying for Air Djibouti, which is managed by the aviation services provider Cardiff Aviation. He feels he owes a lot to this tiny African nation, saying: “Air Djibouti CEO Mario Fulgoni and Cardiff Aviation Chairman Bruce Dickinson (front man of the famous British rock band, Iron Maiden), share my love for flying and have been hugely supportive in helping me realise a lifetime ambition. I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to Mr. Aboubaker Omar Hadi, Chairman of Air Djibouti and Senior Strategic Director Mr. Dawit Michael Gebre-ab, for being my main sponsor in this exciting adventure.”

With air travel in Africa growing fast and set to explode in the coming years with the implementation of the African open sky policy, he is a man of the moment. “I want to play a role in this exciting growth ahead”, he says. As he prepares to go down in the history books, his vision is singular: “I hope to set a world first and inspire a generation of people in Africa and beyond.”

Lola continues, ‘Air Djibouti is already flying to seven destinations regionally with flights to London expected to commence in a few months and Lagos to start in 2018.

It is forging strategic partnerships with key and established players in the aviation industry to build a triamphant aviation industry. The country is building two new international airports to accommodate the expected growth. It belives its stragetic location is a key ingredient to building a winning air transport hub along with a successful hub carrier to serve it.

With limited home grown aviation success stories in Africa which has led to non African carriers capiltalising on this void, Air Djibouti is gearing itself to the challenge and seems to be flying in the right direction’.

The CEO of African Aviation Services, Mr Nick Fadugba states that the African aviation industry is a vital catalyst for Africa’s economic growth and social advancement. A safe, reliable and profitable African aviation industry that facilitates business, trade, tourism and social interaction on the African continent and beyond will help to create wealth and promote sustainable development in Africa.

Djibouti has positioned itself as logistics hub for the East Africa region with excellent port and freetrade zone facilities.

It is now aspiring to become a gateway to Africa and beyond with the construction of four new ports and the biggest free trade zone in Africa spanning 4,800 hectares. It has forged strategic partnership with some of the biggest companies in China who have invested in its expansion programme. With its liberal financial regulation and a a dollar pegged currency, having also attracted various banks to set up shop in its capital city. Its transport network was only missing a strong homegrown airliner and this is now happening; the missing piece in the jigsaw. Aviators such as Lola are only too happy to play their role in this exciting development.

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Lola explaining his journey ahead to DPFZA chairman Mr. Hadi, deputy chairman Mohamed and Senior Director Dawit

French senior army officers wishing Lola the best.

France, USA, Japan, Italy and China all have military bases in Djibouti The press and Djibouti officials walk Lola to his aircraft

Lola with Chairman of Air Djibouti, Mr. Hadi to the left. CEO of Air Djibouti, Mr. Fulgoni, and Mr. Hassan, permanent secretary of Ministry of transport to the right.

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It has been worldwide where Chelsea take on Aston Villa. Picture: Charles Briscoe-Knight, CBKfoto.

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ADVERTORIAL

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Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

Choose from our catalogue or send us your bespoke design our technical team is available to realize your dream building. At PIL you are restricted only by your imagination.

POLY THERMO PACK PIL produces a large range of packaging products for food and beverages, as well as agricultural, medical and electronic packaging because of its high compressive strength and insulating qualities.

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AFFORDABLE / SOCIAL HOUSING This is a 37sq/m one bedroom studio apartment. The completion of the building took 7 days. Two solar panels have been placed on the

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roof with an inverter and batteries creating just .500KW of power which can power sockets, lights, fan and television making the house completely independent on the national grid. If need arises to increase power, all you need is increase the solar panels. Furthermore, the mean temperature in the building is 22 degrees centigrade with no cooling this is the add on you get with an insulated building, which value is not captured in costings. The polystyrene panels and accessories needed to erect this one bedroom apartment cost N723,116.79.

Also visit our website on http://polyindustries.com.ng Tele; 08034040090, 08095999991, 08059025553, 08065008578 Email: sales@polyindustries.com.ng, inquiries@polyindustries.com.ng Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

JUBILANT in

JOHANN JOHANNESBURG

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NESBURG There’s nothing quite like it Yasemen Kaner-White

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Four Seasons, The Westcliff Exterior

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ome to an estimated 4.4 million people, Johannesburg, or more colloquially known as ‘Jozi’ or ‘Jo’burg’ is the largest city in South Africa, and the capital of Gauteng, the most affluent province in the country.

I visited Jo’burg for the first time last November, staying at Four Seasons, The Westcliff hotel, nestled among blooms of joyous purple Jacaranda trees, which blossom from September to November. Logistically, the hotel couldn’t be better, an urban retreat situated within the affable Parks vicinity, Westcliff being one of the Parks. Truly unique, with no other hotel of its size in the area or with the same enviable views, it is truly the leading Johannesburg base from which to carry out both your business and leisure pursuits. “I think the biggest selling point is that it is not in Sandton, we made a very conscious decision when we established the brand not to be in the city, as a matter of fact we were offered an opportunity to manage a hotel in Sandton 5 or 6 years ago but turned it down because we never felt that the Four Seasons guest experience, would be enriched by its concrete jungle atmosphere, our travellers even when travelling for business, look for a very experiential experience, which we have here”, Sebastien Carre, the General Manager of Four Seasons, The Westcliff, told me.

Still relatively young, The Westcliff is 18 years old but acquired by Four Seasons in 2012, closed in 2013, then fully transformed and re-launched at the end of 2014.

The biggest changes made to the hotel would be the stunningly serene spa, featuring locally produced organic products, along with the restaurants Flames and View.

The sheer size and capacity of all were intentional, Carre explains, “we wanted to create a lifestyle environment for the locals, that is what Four Seasons does, 80% of the guests at the spa and restaurants are Jo’burg residents - we designed them for the local community”. This allinclusive approach not only benefits the locals but also

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the hotel guests, who, whilst using the hotel facilities are able to feel they are in the happening place, the buzz of Jo’burg rubs off on them whilst still being in a safe and familiar environment. I certainly felt this when I ate in Flames. The restaurants renowned position also means that guests don’t need to think in advance where to go for their meals, as they already have a recommended favourite literally on their doorstep. “We engineer our hotels in a different way, we bring the community to the hotels, another reason why we chose the suburbs”, said Carre.

Along with the fellow Parks; Park Hurst, Park View and Park Town North, Westcliff really is the ‘Mayfair’ of Jo’burg. Although many of the opulent 150 year-old mansions are hidden behind walls, each nearby Park has its own shops and cafés. The Westcliff ’s street-side deli has become the Westcliff neighbourhood hotspot, whilst having breakfast there I felt at home among the locals on their laptops drinking their morning coffee, feeling fully integrated in the Jo’burg way of life. Carre told me that Cape Town is next on the Four Seasons list for a lifestyle hotel of the same ilk, with further African locations planned for hotels in another 10-12 countries, including one in the VI; Lagos. “We started in Jo’burg as it’s a good starting place to begin branching out, as we project every major global brand which does business in Africa starts here, because there is business infrastructure, airlift, a more mature economy than the rest of the continent, helping to project projects in neighbouring countries”, said Carre. Four Seasons is a management company which has long term agreements with real estate investors and The Westcliff is owned by businessman Ali Albawardy along with the Singaporean company HPL, the legacy partner duo have a portfolio of jointly owned hotels. “They are visionary stakeholders who jointly with Four Seasons take an active role in moulding what the hotel looks like from art recommendations to designs”, said Carre. It seems only fitting that the conferences happen in The Westcliff ’s Polo Bar, as Albwardy is the legendary owner of the Dubai desert palm polo club, multiple times winner of the Queen’s cup, and patron of the Dubai Cartier International Polo. In fact, the original hotel had a Polo Bar where the local teams would congregate for socials, today you can see it full of 19th Century polo cup memorabilia. Continuing the polo traditions, The Westcliff regularly hosts players and guests of the BMW International, the biggest polo event in Jo’burg, taking place in September. They also sponsor the Prince of Wales Cup, at the end of August, with the gala dinner being held there too.

Jo’burg has a lot going for it, it’s much less of a seasonal city with obvious attributes, such as Cape Town; to know Jo’burg you really need to get under its skin to fully enjoy its all-year-round buzz. One of the biggest diplomatic cities in the world, with a mature economy and good infrastructure in place, Jo’burg has all the qualities to attract business. Due to being a major airport hub, with most flights passing through before heading onto another African continent, it makes for a logical stop-over from medical trips to

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Four Seasons The Westcliff Flames Terrace with View

Four Seasons The Westcliff Private Dining Room

Four Seasons The Westcliff Royal Suite Living Room

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view overlooking the Jacaranda trees from Four Seasons The Westcliff

Four Seasons The Westcliff Spa Pool

Four Seasons The Westcliff Restaurant View Four Seasons The Westcliff Bedroom

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Four Seasons The Westcliff Presedential Suite

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Panorama

shopping. “The urban revival during the last 15 years in Jo’burg is very much like what happened in Berlin during the 90’s, or the 70’s in Manhattan, they were abandoned and then came back again, kick-started by artistic communities”, said Carre. Jo’burg is a very dynamic global city, with a cross pollination of talent, which oozes out in the diverse food scene, art galleries and ever-growing entrepreneurial work hubs brimming with multicultural business ideas. With friendly members of The Westcliff staff on hand to give local tips and suggestions, it’s easy to plan your time and make the most of it. All reception staff have been on the tours themselves so are well placed for recommendations, and private car company Jarat Tours are on hand to offer comfortable luxury cars to take you wherever you desire, from bespoke tours to every day errands, in style.

The ideal scenario for a South African adventure would be to initially fly to Jo’burg for the weekend, as things liven up from Thursday, stay three days and then go on to a game reserve, perhaps followed by a week in Cape Town…

Soweto

WHERE TO EAT

Just off Sandton, in Nelson Mandela square is the recommended Indian restaurant; Bukhara, perfect to try a bunny chow. Nearby The Butcher Shop, which also has a branch in Cape Town is a long-standing firm favourite serving up mouthwatering meaty meals.

Tasha’s, Cilantros and Pigalle offer alternative chic venues with gourmet offerings.

Newly opened Marbles located in Rose Bank is the latest venture from celebrity chef David Higgs and well worth checking out. Do as I did and sit at the Chef’s Table to watch all the action and unveil the secrets of the meticulous yet delicious dishes leaving the kitchen to arrive at your table. The local game - Kudu starter was a highlight, served with a perfectly grilled (or more locally termed braai’d) egg yolk on the side.

The Gentleman’s Club

Shopping in Sandton

All organic Coobs restaurant made for a delicious dinner, when I visited, it had only just opened and the critics were going wild, it certainly lived up to the hype.

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New Town Junction’s Potato Shed restaurant is becoming an institution among locals for their hearty slow cooked meat and filled potato skin treats.

Apartheid Museum

For the more adventurous, head to The Mandela Family Restaurant in Soweto for local fare and eat stew and samp.

Last but by no means least, stay put in The Westcliff and eat at local favourite Flames for a fun buzzy atmosphere paired with impressive food to delight or the more refined experience of View. Having everything you’d expect from a Michelin starred restaurant, View’s presentation, finesse and pleasantly surprising taste combinations are a must try.

WHERE TO GO OUT

Located in Sandton is the bar L’Opulence. Ideal for post shopping or if you are single and looking to mingle, be sure to check out their once a month singles event.

Turn to New Town for culture and watch a show at the biggest theatre in Jo’burg.

If art is what you are after, you won’t be short of places to go; Goodman Gallery, Gallery MOMO, Wits Art Museum, Absa Gallery, David Krut Projects, Stevenson Gallery and Everard Read are on hand to visit.

Arts On Main Rest

Newtown

Mandela House

Next to New Town Junction mall is the quirky, formally a urinal, now exclusive (book ahead) club; The Gentleman’s Club, newly opened and already immensely popular.

For a spot of laid-back jazz or uplifting side-splitting giggles from stand up comedians, Orbit is the answer for a guaranteed fun night. A few doors down is rooftop bar The Beach, another destination for the lover of lazy nights, list.

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WHERE TO SHOP

Soweto

(Yasemen in), Soweto

Note – on Sunday malls and restaurants can close early…

New Town Junction mall – is not only a shopping haven but also a place to visit in itself. With a water fountain feature, live bands playing throughout the day, picnics hosted on the grounds on a Saturday and numerous shops to peruse, it is a winner.

Sandton and Mall of Africa answer all your shopping whims, from uber lux to everyday essentials. It is worth noting that on the first Sunday of every month there is an antique fair in Sandton.

Brand new eclectic Urbanology is also worth checking out.

WHERE TO VISIT

As sad as it may be, you would be missing a vital part of the Jo’burg story if you didn’t visit both Apartheid Museum and Constitutional Hill.

Amatuli

For animal lovers, visit the Lion Park which houses endangered local species such as the white lion, wild dog and the cheetah. The Elephant Sanctuary and the local zoo are must-sees too.

From Jo’burg you can get to famed Kruger National Park in roughly 6 hours drive and about 2 1/2 hours drive away is Welgevonden, privately owned game lodges available for rent which still have the big 5 but in a smaller area, so taking up less time visiting than Kruger, if time isn’t on your side.

Amatuli

A fun place to shop for traditional African artifacts is most definitely the design district of Kramerville, dominated by avid explorer and collector Mark Valentine who has scoured the globe to bring you a host of unusual objects from photographs, to furniture to knick-knacks, showcased in his one-stop-shop Amatuli.

Marbles restaurant, Kudu starter

Jo’burg Red Skyline

A meander around the fascinating south western township Soweto, ideally lead by a local, either by bike, or like me, wanting to sit back and be able to capture it all on camera, a tuk tuk, is an absolute must.

Maboneng, aka the Place of Light is home to a vast array of independent retail shops, restaurants and entertainment areas, Sunday is the best day to go for the open market.

A nice area for a stroll is Parkhurst, which has seen a big boom in the last few years. Boutique shops, and places for outdoor cocktails such as hip Hudsons, along with bookshops to browse, can all be found here.

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Yasemen in Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton

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Hublot - Geneva Days Masterline

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Chopard Happy Sport RG Steel

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Chopard Happy Sport RG Diamonds

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Glaschutte Sixties Gold

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Hublot - Geneva Days Masterline

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ART IN FOCUS

A blockbuster show revs up the Lagos arts scene Lilby Skaz

Art X Lagos, the brilliantly curated showcase of the freshest contemporary art from the African continent revved up the excitement level when it opened in November the 4th to the 6th in Nigeria’s throbbing commercial and cultural capital. Visitors were wowed with a diverse programme of curated projects, vibrant live events, creative kids activities and engaging Talks sessions which transformed the Civic Centre venue into a high-end shindig – chic and full of atmosphere, where art making, art performing and art marketing converged on an unprecedented scale. It was West Africa’s most imaginative and most glamorous art show.

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ART IN FOCUS

“Coloufield Expressions -The Art of the Game’’ (2016) by Ade Adekola

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undreds of prime works by 68 African artists were splashed all over the venue’s three exhibition floors for the pleasure of about 5000 people, including the 1200 guests for the VIP Opening Preview. It is this later group, particularly, that Art X Lagos founder and director Tokini Peterside has to convince that the barrage – from the cleverly inane to the soulfully poetic – of paintings, installations, photographs, sculptors and assorted artistic outrages on display are bankable.

“One of the things we are trying to do is to reposition contemporary art as an important part of the culture and creative sector, and to help artists in Nigeria and Africa thrive like their counterparts in music, fashion and film”, Peterside tells Fifth Chukker Magazine. She also expresses the desire to widen the collector base of contemporary art by

pushing it as a viable asset class to the many prospective patrons in Lagos and other African cities.

Prior to the fair, Art X Lagos had launched an annual competition for young artists, with the chance for the winner to showcase their work at the next fair. Patrick Akpojotor won the maiden edition from three other finalists: Dipo Doherty, Nkem Uche and Ima Mfon.

Peterside and artistic director, Bisi Silva hope Art X Lagos will inspire the next generation of African artists through such opportunities.

Sponsored by Access bank, 7Up, Anap Jets and Chapellhill Denham, the fair opened with 14 exhibitors, of which 8 were professional galleries from Lagos, Abuja, Ghana, Mali and South Africa. There were 3 Art spaces and 3 other Independent artists – Victor Ehikhamenor, Obiageli Okigbo and Ade Adekola. One of the exhibitors, South Africa’s Goodman Gallery celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2016.

Wild to the Left

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ART IN FOCUS

HIGHLIGHTS

Intersections - Team Art X Wole Soyinka

For the signature immersive experience, you couldn’t do any better than Karo Akpokiere’s gigantic colouring wall – to which guests were invited to flourish their artistic skills. The wall comically portrays a divided city of Lagos where anarchy looms in the less affluent part.

A Whitespace Creative Agency laid on the spectacular Art X Live. Here, guests had the privilege of observing Artists Stacy Okparavero, Yadichinma Ukoha-Kalu or Tunde Alara build up a complete body of work from blank canvas.

At Art X Talks, more than 30 speakers engaged a full house everyday on the imperative of assiduously cultivating an African community of established and emerging artists, galleries and collectors, and to project the African art scene as a distinctive cultural experience of increasing global consequence.

Finally, there was the Art X: Intersection.

What is this? It was an audio-visual novelty where live music and live art were concocted as a creative process. And it started all sweetness and light as artists Stacy Okparavero, Yadichinma Ukoha-Kalu, Dricky and Tunde Alara began throwing colours on the backdrop canvas. Producer Ikon punctured the air with a piano riff, prompting singers Simi, Falana, Vector and Poe to attempt to curl their music round the brush strokes and colours of the artists in some discernible harmony. It was really cool and it portends, as Peterside puts it, “that there is an intersection between art and other creative expressions.” The lady could do no wrong in her finest hour.

Segun Ogunleye, Bisi Silva, Obi of Onitsha, Tokini Peterside & Victor Etuoku

Joke Silva & Olu Jacobs

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Owanto Berger

Folake Coker(left) and friend

Omooba Yemisi Shyllon(left) and Femi Lijadu

Victor Ehikhamenor & Chief Nike Davies Okundaye

Chief Akinkugbe & Kunle Akinkugbe

Suresh & Kavita Chellaram, Atedo Peterside

Bolanle Austen-Peters, Adesua Dozie

Ifeyinwa Ighodalo, Fola Adeola & Kemi Davies

Marwan Zakhem of Gallery 1957 & Artist Ade Adekola

Artist, Obi Okigbo & Wole Soyinka

Fashion Designers - Maki Oh, Re Bahia and Tsemaye Binitie

Megha Joshi and Koye Edu

Sandy Obiago and Tola Adegbite

Ade Bantu

Donald Duke

Yewande Zaccheaus

Odein Ajumogobia

Kavita Chellaram & Bola Shagaya

ART IN FOCUS

Amadou Sanogo’s ‘’Sans Tête’’

‘’State of a Nation’’ by Kudzanai Chiurai

‘’Celebration’’ (2014) by Barthélémy Toguo

Layers of flip-flop cut-outs in Ngoazi Omeje’s installation

SMO Gallery

IICD Gallery

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Karo Akpokiere’s Colouring Wall

Victor Ehikhamenor

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ART IN FOCUS

“It took a bit of madness to do this.”

INTERVIEW WITH TOKINI PETERSIDE; FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR, ART X LAGOS excited about contemporary art. Now it wasn’t just to develop that excitement for excitement sake, but we wanted to be part of a movement and a network supporting existing artists, and inspiring the future generation of artists. It is important to us that the artists of tomorrow see an experience like Art X Lagos and participate where possible so they can aspire to a strong career and a bright future as professional artists.

WHAT MAKES THIS EVENT UNIQUE?

We are a different form of art experience. We are an experience through which we want a broad and vast audience to engage contemporary art and we have something for both young and old. We are also breaking the rules of the average art fair where you don’t see colouring walls that people are scribbling and painting on, and you don’t have music shows and live art. Art X Lagos gives you a very distinctive visitor experience.

EXPLAIN THE PASSION BEHIND THIS?

I have a passion for art and also my passion is for the many talented people in the city, in the country and in the continent. I have spent a good part of my career working in the music industry. I used to be head of marketing at Moët Hennessy, where I drove the Hennessy Artistry project and many other musical promotions. I was very involved in the maiden Lagos fashion week when it launched in Nigeria. I have seen the talents in music, in films and in fashion. I saw that in these and other popular culture spheres, including art, people are continually pushing things to amazing levels and that got me thinking if there was still need for more in that creative ecosystem. This was how Art X Lagos was conceived. But I am also an avid collector and have purchased lots of artworks. I have always joked that whilst many women buy shoes, I buy art because I have big feet. I buy art because I am passionate about it and passionate about the artists who create them.

Before she ambitiously set out to create more value for African art and change the economics of taste on the continent, Art X Lagos founder and director, Tokini Peterside worked as a creative strategy consultant with clients in fashion, design, music, marketing, the arts and film.

The London School of Economics Law graduate and businesswoman sat down with Fifth Chukker Magazine in the middle of her seminal art show…

WHAT’S THE VISION?

What we are trying to do is to reposition contemporary art as an important part of the culture and creative sector. Over the past decade there has been tremendous progress in music, in fashion, in film, in design, and we found out that whilst there’d been a lot of upticks in contemporary art – with great artists doing incredibly marvelous work – there was still an appreciable gap in Nigeria and West Africa between contemporary art and popular culture. The idea behind Art X Lagos is to bridge this gap and generate an excitement level to match the other creative sectors.

In terms of excitement, we wanted to see if it was possible to build a platform that could have everyone within the city of Lagos and beyond

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SO HOW DO YOU GET MORE PEOPLE TO PATRONISE ART?

The answer is Art X Lagos. The reason we launched this is so that many more people can appreciate artistic talent. Over 1200 people attended the VIP Opening Preview, prominent Nigerians coming out in droves to see what artists can do.

In terms of boosting patronage and growing the base of collectors, I think it’s through experiences like this, trying to reach out to more potential collectors, to think outside the box and create interesting ideas that will make them come through the hours of traffic we experience in Lagos to see something they know they will be surprised and delighted about. We now have people saying, “I have not been a collector so far but I like this particular piece, let me find out more about it and see if I can buy it”.

The Galleries all sold lots of work even in the middle of a bad economy. So, yes, it can be done.

HOW’S ART COLLECTING TRENDING?

Art Collecting goes hand in hand with the economy. As the economy continues to thrive and as people increase their net worth, they start to think what to do with the extra income besides investing in property,

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stocks and bonds. We want to position art as an asset class that investors can find attractive.

One of the top art patrons, Omooba Yemisi Shyllon just talked about his over 6000 works. Now imagine what that will do for your inheritance if you’re his child and you inherit that collection at a time when Nigerians are really valuing art – it’s formidable. He wants to endow it to a private museum; and what is that going to do for that space in terms of generating income and revenue? Art as an asset class is incredibly important today and that’s why we are having a lecture about it in the Talks programme, to enlighten people and hopefully widen the collector base.

HOW DID YOU GET THE SHOW ON THE ROAD?

I have been developing this for a few years, researching it for quite some time, and even last year when I was doing my MBA, it was a project I was looking into with some of my friends in school. In terms of actually moving to make it happen, that started in late February/early March, that’s when I thought we should go for it this year. But incredulity ensued and everybody thought I was mad for proposing such a stunt in this very trying time for Nigeria. It was suggested I could never attract the required sponsorship. But I went to work, regardless, to look for support as the Art X Lagos creator, director, saleswoman, fundraiser, project manager, marketer, galvanizer, spokesperson and beggar-in-chief. I was making presentations to anyone of interest.

But as you can see today, Access bank, 7up, Anap Jets and Chappell Hill Denham are all here and all happy with what they have seen this weekend. Even the galleries who were quite nervous in the beginning about the financial implication for their business in a tough economy signed up. Ultimately, we did this with an incredibly talented team of people, especially our artistic director, Bisi Silva who did a lot to push and shape the vision of the project. And we now know it wasn’t madness, after all – or perhaps it took a bit of madness to do it.

Dudun Peterside, Tokini Peterside & Wale Davies Tonye & Sam Unuigbe

Reni Folawiyo, Mo Abudu, Tokini Peterside, Bolanle Austen-Peters, Dundun Peterside & Catherine Bickersteth.

WAS IT REALLY HARD TO SELL?

The only real challenge we encountered in attracting sponsorship was the economy. I expected patent indifference when I started talking to sponsors. But I was amazed at the number of companies and banks who said this is an amazing project, the time is now, they want to be part of it but they just don’t know how. I had sponsors saying any other year they would have done this. And they weren’t just saying it, they meant every bit of it and you could see how the managers were hustling to find the budget. For me it was so encouraging that people were saying that and really accepting that now is the time to inspire young Nigerians, now is the time to celebrate Nigerian talent, now is the time to help those who are incredibly gifted and to give them a platform that allows them to be more financially independent. We even had another bank pulling and pushing to see if they could get a bigger budget approval to make a better offer than Access bank.

In the end, though, Access bank, 7-Up, Anap Jets and ChappelHill Denham stood up in the middle of a recession and said we would support you, we would support the arts.

I am forever grateful to them because not only were they supporting art in a recession, they were supporting a first-time project with no guarantees of success. The success of this show is to their credit.

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Peter Obi, Atedo Peterside, Tokini Peterside & Paul Adefarasin

Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

KEFFI

POLO RANCH KM 45 ABUJA - KEFFI EXPRESS WAY, NASARAWA STATE. 080360164490 08035402585

Golf

at the Rio Olympics When Great Britain’s Justin Rose and South Korea’s Inbee Park stood on top of their respective podiums in Rio de Janeiro this summer, as winners of the first Olympic golfing gold medal in over 100 years, one of the most significant landmarks in the history of the sport had been achieved.

Ross Biddiscombe

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ADVENTURES IN SPORT

Y

et the build-up to this golfing milestone had been littered with problems and golf’s long-awaited return to the Olympic family had threatened to turn into a nightmare. Despite much goodwill, golf’s return to the Games took place under a cloud of controversy. The very player who galvanised the idea in the first place; Tiger Woods – was absent, as were most of the world’s best players like Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth. Champions Rose and Park, plus more than 100 other great players had to defy the odds to win-over both the fans and doubters.

The story of golf at the Olympics actually began in 1900 in Paris when two competitions for men and women amateur players took place. The tournaments were so low-key, however, that the women’s event was only given official Olympic status retrospectively. There was little improvement in 1904 in St Louis where two more gold medals were contested, but neither competition created any sporting headlines. However, with Great Britain staging the 1908 Games, the experts believed golf would make its mark. Famous seaside courses near London were chosen as venues and the top amateur players were due to take part.

Yet the sport’s administrators at that time, the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in Scotland (better known simply as ‘The R&A’), somehow fell out with their Olympic counterparts and the 1908 competition was cancelled at the last minute.

Not until new millennium dawned was golf back on the Olympic agenda. By this time, Olympic sportsmen and women were thoroughly professional and the world’s sporting icons were lining up to take part, stars like basketball’s Michael Jordan and tennis star Roger Federer. These athletes brought extra credibility to the Olympic brand and the International Olympic Commission now wanted Tiger Woods to grace their Games as the most recognised sportsman of the early 21st century. Not only that, but golf’s grandees saw an unprecedented opportunity to grow the sport by returning to the Olympic family.

So, after years of lobbying and discussions, an announcement was made in 2009: golf for men and women would be back in the 2016 and 2020 Olympics and Woods was immediately installed as 6-1 favourite to win golfing gold. But a lot can happen in seven years. And, in this case, it did.

Firstly, the decline of Tiger Woods had already begun and, by 2016, the long-time No 1 player in the world was suffering multiple injuries, fighting a sad case of the chipping yips and had not won a major title for eight years. Woods was never close to qualifying, but his successors to greatness all seemed keen.

However, a crazy set of circumstances kept most of them from travelling to Brazil either.

The first reason to miss the Olympics was indifference and Australia’s Adam Scott said so when he was one of the first to withdraw. Then a little-known virus named Zika began causing concerns for visitors to South America. Although the risks of catching the virus were slight, experts said it could affect brains the size of new-born babies and even cause a muscle-weakening disease in adults. That was enough for players including Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth and Jason Day to cancel plans to become Olympians.

Cynics said scheduling overload was the real cause of the men’s large-scale boycott. Golf’s administrators had added the Olympic event into the middle of an already busy summer calendar rather than create some room around it by, for example, moving a major such as the US PGA Championship to the autumn. For most top male players, major glory was preferable to an Olympic medal.

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Proud Olympian Rafa Cabrera Bello of Spain. Courtesy of Ladies European Tour, Tristan Jones South Korea’s Inbee Park was always the favourite for the women’s gold medal

The Olympic experience will help players like Nicole Broch Larsen of Denmark.

Courtesy of Ladies European Tour, Tristan Jones

Several leading men decided not to go to Rio including Rory McIlroy.

Courtesy of the Egyptian Open

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ADVENTURES IN SPORT

Runaway winner in the women’s Olympic event Inbee Park of South Korea (centre) is all smiles along with silver medallist Lydia Ko of New Zealand (left) and China’s Shanshan Feng (right) who won bronze.

Photo: Courtesy of Ladies European Tour, Tristan Jones

Large crowds turned out on the 1st tee each day for both Olympic golf tournaments to ensure the sport’s success in Rio. Photo: Courtesy of Ladies European Tour, Tristan Jones

The Ladies European Tour representation at Rio was outstanding.

Olympic golfers in the Aberdeen LSO 1. Courtesy of the Ladies European Tour

The men said they were protecting themselves and their wives and children from the virus, yet the best women golfers could hardly have been more excited; only one of them – South African Lee-Anne Pace – stayed home. Thankfully though, once the Games began, the beautiful setting of the specially designed golf course and the skill of the men and women players on view were undeniable.

The men’s competition turned into an enthralling head-to-head between Justin Rose and Henrik Stenson of Sweden with the Englishman holing out with a gold medal-winning birdie on the very final hole.

The women’s tournament was dominated by South Korea’s Inbee Park, but in the battle for silver and bronze was a great fight to the finish with Lydia Ko of New Zealand eventually finishing just ahead of China’s Shanshan Feng. Both competitions had delivered fine champions and plenty of excitement and were watched by large, enthusiastic crowds.

Not only that, but the golfers themselves were overwhelmed by their Olympic experiences, being with so many other great international athletes and being able to watch other Olympic competitions in Rio. So, despite its star absentees, golf in the modern day Olympic Games proved to be a great success for everyone.

Now, the golf tournaments at the 2020 Olympics are expected to be among the hottest tickets in Japan, especially with the possibility of a mixed competition added to the two individual events. Also, the Rio absentees who soon spoke of regretting their decision to stay away – “I was glad to be somewhat proven wrong,” said Rory McIlroy, for example, are making the next Games a top priority. And, who knows, maybe even Tiger Woods will be vying for a medal in Tokyo. For everyone involved in golf and the Olympics, that would really be the icing on the cake.

Ross Biddiscombe is author of Ryder Cup Revealed: Tales of the Unexpected available in hardback or eBook format on www.amazon.com

Leading image: Olympic champion Justin Rose of Great Britain (centre) celebrates with the other medal winners, Henrik Stenson (left) of Sweden and Matt Kuchar (right) of the USA. Photo: Courtesy of Ladies European Tour, Tristan Jones

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POLO PEOPLE

PEARL VALLEY GOLF COURSE

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PEARL VALLEY

Pretty Pearl Valley was the perfect place for my first golf lesson…

Yasemen Kaner-White

L

ocated in South Africa; Franschoek and part of the Val de Vie Super Estate is their noteworthy Jack Nicklaus Signature 18 hole golf course. The top course in the Western Cape for the last 9 years and ranked number 3 in South Africa; where better to try my hand at golf for the first time! Pearl Valley has two signature holes, the 4th and the 13th, both offering majestic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. Having had a fabulously tasty balanced Bantang breakfast in their restaurant, consisting of a cauliflower rösti topped with silky smoked salmon, supersized capers, cream cheese and caviar, as a novice without the correct attire, I headed to their extensively kitted out shop to get some golf gear. Dressed the part in my pink Pearl Valley shirt I was ready to meet my coach for the day; Abrie Swanepoel, who sweetly said he’d oversee the no jeans policy today.

I didn’t realise to go on the course you need a collar (though as fashion moves on, this is becoming more lax) and golf shoes, the latter being practical so as not to slip. Pearl Valley already stocks the only recently launched in South Africa, premium golf club brand; Titleist, used by top golfer Adam Scott, which I had the pleasure of using. Abrie asked me to swing a club and quickly found out I’m more of a left handed golfer,

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but interestingly ladies left clubs don’t exist, so right it was. Armed with a ladies 7 iron (there is a multitude of club lengths and weights), the painfully patient Abrie talked me through the grips. Just so happens for me, the 10-finger grip worked better than the interlocked (both logically named). As a woman, I was intrigued as to the golfing world for ladies and what it entails, it would seem it is ever rising in popularity, becoming less elitist and perceiving it as a man only sport is an outdated concept.

More and more women come to play and learn in Pearl Valley, on the committee there are 3 ladies and 4 men, so almost equally divided.

Bunnies Club exists for the novice lady golfers and the Pearl Valley Ladies Open is the biggest in the Western Cape.

Due to open in March is their brand new hotel, so guests can enjoy the renowned Swing Fit Teaching Academy which is open to guests, the public and of course members. Already the self catering apartments are regularly frequented by Europeans who come for as long as a month to play golf alongside the residents of Pearl Valley, 30% of which play golf. Of course, similar to polo, ski and indeed most sports, golf is the perfect breeding ground for essential networking, so why not pick Pearl Valley as the place to do it…

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The Grill Restaurant, Naka Island Resort, Phuket

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Escape to

Thailand Lyn Houghton

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t is hard to imagine that Phuket in Thailand was a fishing village only twenty-five years ago.

But this country of verdant forests, breathtaking beaches, incredible cuisine and friendly people is now a booming tourist destination and a favourite on the luxury-seekers’ map. Bangkok has become a five-star destination of distinction for international travellers looking for that uniquely special getaway; these same upmarket tourists are also discovering the tropical resorts of Koh Samui and Khao Lak, which are equally alluring.

White sand beaches, lush jungles, incredible rock formations, intriguing islands and wildlife are some of the natural attractions you will find in Thailand, as well as humid, warm and sunny weather.

The rural north encompasses both the endless rice paddies of Sukhotai (formerly the capitol city) and the country’s mountainous region, while much of southern Thailand nestles around the azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Crossing overland from Surat Thani (on the Gulf) towards the west, one reaches the Andaman Sea where Phuket Island, the Phi Phi Islands and the Similan Islands are found.

Koh Samui, known for its palm fringed beaches and coconut groves is also in the Gulf of Thailand opposite the Kra Isthmus. The 12m-tall gold Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai Temple is located on a tiny island connected by a walkable bridge.

PHANG NA BAY

The protected bay of Phang Na, north-east from Phuket, boasts crystalline waters and distinctive islands. Ao Phang Nga National Park, where famous limestone karsts jut angularly up and above the water, can be reached by colourful long boats or yacht. This is the location of famous rock formation, Ko Tapu, known as James Bond Island after featuring in the 1974 film ‘Man with the Golden Gun’.

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Thailand’s west coast is fringed by the Andaman Sea and it is an hour-long boat ride to the nine Similan Islands.

KHAO LAK

Only a 90-km drive north of Phuket, Khao Lak feels quite remote. The area, now fully recovered from the 2004 Tsunami, is known for its picturesque beaches and famous Khao Lak Lamru National Park where elephants jaunts into the jungle under the guidance of their Mahouts (keepers) – it is a top attraction.

BANGKOK

Bustling Bangkok is a city of contrasts, where historic architecture juts up against modern style, and traditional culture clashes with the cosmopolitan one. The super-efficient, hyper-clean underground and sky-train will get you where you need to go in minutes. Keen shopper? Then head to the EmQuarter Mall at Phrom Phong BTS Skytrain, for 400 luxury labels and 4,000 m2 of shopping space.

Sailing along the Chao Phraya River on a private long-tail boat is a relaxing way to see the city. The river not only dissects the city but is also its lifeblood.

Pass by the floating markets as well as remarkable temples that dot the riverside. Pak Khlong Talat; the floating flower market, is where riotously large bouquets of roses, lilies and orchids are to be found.

The Royal Palace, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Po, as well as Wat Arun, can all be visited from the water.

THE ACTIVITIES

Many spend their leisure time enjoying the sun lounging on the beach or by the pool, but there are outdoor activities available to suit all tastes. Scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts should head for the pristine Similan Islands to see an array of tropical fish and view rare green sea turtles. Ko Tao, near

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NORTH OF BANGKOK, CHANG MAI

Four Seasons Resort, Chang Mai In Chang Mai’s Mae Rim Valley, the Four Seasons Resort has palatial three and four story Resident Villas which are recreations of traditional Thai-Burmese architecture with gabled buttresses and polished teak floors. Each villa has a fireplace, wine cellar and private pool, sundeck and veranda.

KOH KOOD (KUT) ISLAND

Soneva Kiri The Soneva Kiri is one of the most remote and luxurious resorts in Thailand and claims to offer ‘guilt-free’ hedonism for its guests. Located on Koh Kood island, a 90-minute flight from Bangkok, it is the largest island in the Gulf of Thailand but with a tiny population and is wonderfully secluded.

KOH YAO NOI ISLAND (PHUKET)

Six Senses Yao Noi Nestled in the jungle canopy of Koh Yao Noi is the Six Senses Yao Noi Resort and the Retreat, the ultimate tropical get-away.

Measuring 500 m2 with a 107m2 infinity pool on the upper deck, the two-bedroom villa provides not only personal space and private access to the beach but also amenities such as Satellite TV, wifi and DVD players plus ‘to die for’ sea views.

KHAO LAK

Sarojin Each residence at the Sarojin includes an intimate couple’s bath and rain shower as well as private gardens along with terrace and a private sala (floating canopied lounge area). Ensconced in the tropical jungle with access to pristine beaches, Sarojin is a romantic escape.

Diving, Similan Islands

KO SAMUI

Belmond Napasai Situated on a hillside in lush tropical gardens, overlooking Baan Tai beach, Belmond Napasai features stand-alone villas and provides a haven particularly for those intrigued about Thai culture and local traditions. Guests can join yoga sessions and be treated to on-site Thai body and head massages. Down at the oceanfront there is: Scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, paddle boarding and sailing. There are lessons in fruit carving and making sweet Thai desserts.

NEED TO KNOW

Currency: Baht

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Ko Samui, is another diver’s paradise. Deep-sea fishing is Damnoen-saduak hugely popular and luxury charters are available to book from Phuket. Sail-fish, Black Marlin, Mahi Mahi and Yellowfin are usually caught north of the Similan Islands.

If shooting is of interest, try out the Gun Shooting Range in Bangkok for some target practice. Those who are entranced with motorcycles can rent a Harley Davidson and tour the beaches and backroads of Thailand. (harley-tours-thailand.com) The once-a-year Elephant Polo Tournament is held by the Anantara Siam Hotel and is an enormously popular event, plus a huge fund-raiser with monies going to help domestic elephants, mahouts and their families.

THE CUISINE

As Thai culture is spread around the world by the diaspora of its people, the food we have grown to love is served at another level in their homeland. Much care is taken in preparation of food, Buddhist principles of taste and technique are part of this process. Stir-fry is often used to make everything from Phat Thai (noodles with prawns) to soups and fragrant curries, the results are fresh and intoxicatingly delicious.

Virtually anywhere the water meets the shore, there is an abundance of oysters, lobsters and other crustaceans.

The Rajong region is known for fresh seafood. Be sure to try Hoi Malaeng Phu Op (baked mussels) and Thalay Ping Yang (mixed seafood grill) cooked up by local fishermen.

Don’t miss the unforgettable floating market in Rachaburi (west of Bangkok) where they sell everything from their small wooden boats along the khlongs (canals).

Try the Khanon Khrok (coconut pancake) with coffee; a traditional breakfast dish.

In the cool mountains of Chang Mai, strawberries are grown and these farms have become resorts where tourists can come and help with the harvest. The ‘farm to fork’ and organic food phenomena is spreading like wildfire in Thailand and having a major influence on top chefs and their dishes.

THE RESTAURANTS

Thai Food

“The Tune in Garden” in Mae Rim, Chiang Mai, serves dishes made from home grown organic fruit, vegetables and foraged food from the nearby forest. Their signature dish is Pla Thu Thot Klaem Phat Phak Tung Thai (fried Thai mackerel with Thai water spinach). By appointment only.

Tel: +66 (0) 87185 2951.

The regal Blue Elephant sits in a renovated turn of the century teak building. During service of Royal Thai classical dishes guests are entertained by Thai dancers wearing traditional dress.

At Bo.lan in Bangkok, chefs meticulously comb the local fresh markets for the best ingredients. Everything is prepared on a slow food basis and the result is a kaleidoscope of flavours, colours and textures.

Nahm is the award-winning Michelin star Thai restaurant in the Metropolitan Hotel, Bangkok, run by Australian chef, David Thompson. With perseverance, he has risen to became one of Asia’s top Thai-cuisine chefs. His signature FreshisBananas dish Yellow curry of sea bass and cauliflower.

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Zenze Bar

THE BARS

Both Bangkok and Phuket are known for their nightlife and bars. In Bangkok, the rooftop views at the Threesixty Bar at the Millennium Hilton, the Sirocco Sky Bar at Lebua Hotel, Cloud 47 and the Breeze Restaurant and Bar are the draw. Also, try out the Zenze Bar, Vesper Bar and Smalls Bar which all serve top quality cocktails.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK

Mandarin Oriental Known for accommodating royalty and heads of state, the iconic Mandarin Oriental has just renovated its historic wing as well as unveiling the grandest presidential suite in all of Bangkok, the opulent 600m2 Grand Royal Suite.

Taking up the entire floor of the Author’s wing, it has spectacular views of the Chao Phraya River. The 140-yearold property on the Chao Phraya River has 358 rooms and 35 suites in total, is spread over 3 wings and was the first hotel built in Thailand, opening in 1876. It is famous for its impeccable style and intuitive service.

Belmond Napasai, Koh Samui, Baan Tai Beach Thai Food Bangkok Mandarin Oriental Thai Cooking School

The Siam Having opened in 2011, the popularity of The Siam boutique hotel is without comparison. It beckons guests to step back in time to experience the allure of the riverside when King Chulalongkorn reigned. 39 spacious suites are set on 2.8 acres of Chao Phraya frontage and there is a signature Thai restaurant set in an ancient teakwood home transported here by silk tycoon, Jim Thompson.

Anantara Siam The 354 room, luxury flagship hotel; Anantara Siam, is located in the heart of Bangkok. The hotel sponsors the King’s Cup, Elephant Polo’s top award. Famous for its ornate lobby, the top suite at the Anantara Siam is the Presidential Suite at 344 m2 on the 9th floor encompassing superb views of the city.

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The Skytrain

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Andaman Beach

Ranong Beach Sanbona

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A beach LESS ORDINARY Kerry Christiani

Coral Bay Australia – credit Nathan Wills visitningaloo.com.au

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hether you’re sinking your toes into flour-soft sands and floating in waters of bluest blue in Polynesia, puffin spotting on an ice-slicked volcanic bay in remotest Iceland, or trudging along a gale-battered coastline in the Outer Hebrides – there’s a beach with your name on it. We’ve toured the globe to bring you beaches for every mood and moment.

Myrtos beach Kefalonia photo by Region of Ionian Islands

BEST CARIBBEAN HIDEAWAYS

Gorgeous beaches are a dime a dozen in the Caribbean, but some really shine. On Cuba’s north coast, Playa Pilar on Cayo Guillermo is a stunner, with powder-white sand lapped by shallow turquoise water and flanked by 15m-high dunes. It was one of Hemingway’s favourite fishing spots and takes its name from his boat, El Pilar.

Upping the luxury ante, you could head over to Grand Anse on Grenada. Fringed by palms and almond trees, this long sweep of golden sand rarely feels crowded. Spice Island Beach Resort is a romantic find here: some beachfront suites flaunt four-poster beds, while spa treatments are infused with local nutmeg and coconut. A strong contender is Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman, an exquisite crescent of coral sand, with terrific diving and the plush RitzCarlton. Backdropped by the shaggy volcanic plugs of St Lucia’s Pitons, Anse de Pitons has diamond-dust sands, crystal-clear water and knockout views of jungleclad peaks. Set in 100 acres of rainforest, Sugar Beach spa resort brings a drop of luxury to an 18th-century sugar plantation.

With their reef-hemmed, blindingly white beaches and rainforests, the volcanic British Virgin Islands are something else. On mountainous Tortola, Frenchmans is an exclusive peninsula retreat, with just nine villas.

A jump to the west brings you to the US Virgin Islands, where Trunk Bay on St John captivates with its pristine sands, underwater snorkel trail and sugar plantation ruins. Understated luxury is the hallmark of lovely Caneel Bay, founded by Laurance Rockefeller.

St. John Trunk Bay

Spiaggia Principe @Fototeca ENIT Credit Vito Arcomano

BEST EUROPEAN ESCAPES

Europe’s best beaches swing from the silky soft bays of the Med to the wave-lashed Atlantic coast.

For the former, head to Sardinia. In the island’s northeast, the Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) is studded with coves that attract a yachting crowd.

One of the finest is Spiaggia del Principe. Apparently the Aga Khan’s favourite, it’s a perfect half-moon of soft sand and aquamarine water. Base yourself at five-star Hotel Romazzino. Equally alluring are the crescentshaped, cliff-backed bays that indent the Golfo di Orosei on the island’s wild east coast. Villa Gustui Maris overlooks the great arc of the bay and its jewelcoloured waters.

Backed by pines and dunes, the fine-sand beaches on the chilled-out Balearic Island of Formentera can easily be reached by boat from Ibiza. Playa de ses Illetes is an astonishing ribbon of pearl-white sand sloping

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Cook Islands, One Foot Island

Aranui, Bora Bora, enroute to Marquesas

Zakynthos, Greece. www.visitgreece.gr

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into cyan-hued waters. Blanco Hotel is a slice of sleek, pared-down chic in nearby Es Pujols.

It’s no secret that Greece harbours some of Europe’s loveliest coves on its islands. Top billing in the drama stakes goes to Myrtos on Kefalonia’s northwest coast, where limestone cliffs sheer down to the sapphire Ionian Sea. Hot at its heels and fulfilling every Robinson Crusoe fantasy is Zante’s Navagio – or ‘Shipwreck Beach’ – protected by tall cliffs, reached by boat and with unfathomably blue water. Stay at hilltop, adults-only Petani Bay for the former, or the five-star Mabely Grand for the latter.

If your dream beach is remote, the Outer Hebrides, with machair-draped sands has barely a soul in sight and remarkably clear waters. Berneray’s three-mile West Beach is exceptional, as is Scarista over on neighbouring Harris, where the Atlantic batters a fabulous swoop of golden sand. On brisk walks along these coastlines, look out for porpoises, otters and seals. Private rentals are the way to go, or base yourself at Georgian manse Scarista House.

With black volcanic sand, the occasional sprinkling of snow and possibility of Northern Lights, Iceland’s beaches wield their own magic. Puffins flap frantically above the southernmost strand of Vík, while slightly east is Jökulsárlón, where luminous-blue icebergs glint on black sands beside a glacial lagoon. Hotel Rangá is an attractive log-built resort in-keeping with the wild surrounds.

BEST ASIAN & SOUTH PACIFIC ESCAPES

Ningaloo Reef, Australia

Paradise island, you say? The choice is overwhelming, but for a tropical island paradise in a nutshell, it’s hard to beat the Maldives, with 1192 coral islands strung across the topaz Indian Ocean. For the ultimate barefoot escape, check into the five-star Soneva Fushi, Kunfunadhoo Island, with eco-chic bungalows hidden in lush jungle, butler service and a house reef.

Ragged green hills rise above the South Pacific isle of Bora Bora in French Polynesia, which is rimmed with phenomenal beaches of coral white. Thatched bungalows jut out into the ocean at the swish Four Seasons, or for more diversity, cruise to Tahiti’s remote and rugged Marquesas on the Aranui 5.

It’s a long way to the Cook Islands, but these are the desert islands par excellence. The aqua water and white sand on One Foot Island in the Aitutaki Lagoon is so startlingly beautiful it looks Photoshopped. Right on the lagoon, the Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa is bliss.

Still off the radar but becoming better known are India’s Andaman Islands neck-laced across the Bay of Bengal, with snow-white sands, mangroves, virgin rainforest, coral reefs and the occasional wandering elephant. Rustic Barefoot at Havelock Island is perfect for unplugging.

Still something of a secret, the Similan Islands in the Andaman Sea off Thailand’s south coast are a taste of the country before tourism took over. The beaches are dreamy, backed by mangroves and primary rainforest. They also rank as one of the world’s best dive sites.

BEST AFRICAN & AUSTRALIAN BEACHES

Off the coast of East Africa, the Seychelles are a worthy rival to the ‘paradise island’ crown. Sublime beaches Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

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abound, but Anse Lazio on Praslin’s northern tip is a magnificent arc of pale sand, pink granite boulders and lapis-lazuli water, where palm and takamaka trees provide shade. Raffles Resort’s luxury villas have plunge pools and outdoor pavilions – the full honeymoon works. Source d’Argent unfurls on the island of La Dingue, one of the world’s most-photographed beaches. A bijou place to stay is the beach-facing Le Repaire Boutique Hotel. With ivory sand so fine it squeaks and electric-blue water bubbling with marine life, Nungwi on the northern tip of the spice island of Zanzibar is quite the African island idyll. Essque Zalu has luxury suites and villas gazing out across the Indian Ocean.

If you long for lounging with wildlife watching, South Africa obliges. In the Table Mountain’s shadow, Boulders Beach in Cape Town is dotted with granite boulders and braying African Penguins. These wild Atlantic waters are also terrific for whale watching. Perched on a cliffside, stylishly converted Edwardian mansion Ellerman House affords ringside ocean views.

Australia has some staggering beaches on its 25,760km stretch of coast – the world’s seventh longest. High on many wish lists is Whitehaven Beach on the Whitsundays, with frost-white silica sand, hallucinogenic blue water and Great Barrier Reef marine life. Day trip there and stay, perhaps, at the swish and wonderfully serene Qualia.

Lesser-known but every inch as lovely is the coast of Western Australia. Coral Bay is a great hop-off point for diving into the Ningaloo Reef, where whale sharks and manta rays glide past. Eschew hotels in favour of pure luxury on live-aboard catamaran Sail Ningaloo.

Seven Weird & Wonderful Beaches • Staircase to the Moon, Western Australia From April to October, at extremely low tide, the full moon creates an optical illusion of stairs at Roebuck Bay in Broome.

• Glass Beach, California From trash to a treasure, this beach in the MacKerricher State Park is formed by iridescent glass pebbles.

• Dragon Eggs, New Zealand Koekohe Beach, on the wave-thrashed Otago coast, is speckled with huge round boulders resembling dragon eggs.

• Hidden Beach, Mexico Hidden in a cave in Mexico’s Marietas Islands, this beach makes for a unique snorkel or swim.

• Bioluminescent Beach, Puerto Rico This bay on the island of Vieques, off Puerto Rico’s east coast, twinkles with bioluminescent phytoplankton.

• Papakolea Green Sand Beach, Hawaii This green-sand bay in a cinder cone is a geological oddity.

• Playa de las Catedrales, Spain The force of nature has hammered out cathedrallike rock formations at this beach in Galicia.

West Beach, Berneray. Credit Kerry Christiani

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WORLDWIDE SPORTS DIRECTORY

GO WHERE THE ACTION IS Twelve Months of Sports Around the World As we move into the summer months, at least in the northern hemisphere, we find some sporting events wrapping up their seasons, while others are just beginning. Come join us, as we explore the world of sports, the expected and the unexpected…

JANUARY January 2: 2017 NHL Winter Classic Washington DC (USA) January 5-20: 2017 Dakar Rally Argentina/Bolivia/Chile January 11-29: 2017 World Men’s Handball Championship Paris January 14 - February 5: Africa Cup of Nations (football) Gabon January 16-29: Australian Open Tennis Melbourne (Australia) January 25: 2017 NHL All-Star Game Ice Hockey Colombus (USA) January 28-29: UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships Bieles (Luxembourg) FEBRUARY February 5: Super Bowl Houston (USA) February 6-19: Skiing World Championships St Moritz, (Switzerland) February 17-19: The NBA All Star Weekend New Orleans, USA February 22 - March 5: FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, Lahti (Finland) February 22-28: Winter Military World Games, Sochi February 26: Daytona 500, Daytona (USA) MARCH March 5-22: USPA Gold Cup, International Polo Club, Palm Beach, USA

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March 9-22: World Baseball Classic USA March 14-24: Special Olympics World Winter Games Graz and Schladming, Austria March 28 - April 19: US Open Cup International Polo Club, Palm Beach, USA March 29 - April 2: World Figure Skating Championships Helsinki (Finland) APRIL April 6-12: Golf Masters Augusta (USA) April 6-8: The Crabbies Grand National 2017, Aintree (England) April 8: Grand National Horse Racing, Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool, UK April 12-14: World Track Champianship Cycling Hong Kong April 21-30: World Masters Games (Summer) Auckland, New Zealand April 23: London Marathon England MAY

May 15- 21: Access Bank UNICEF Charity Shield Polo Tournament Fifth Chukker Polo & Country Club Kaduna, Nigeria May 19 - June 15: The Queens Cup Guards Polo Club, London May 21-June 11: French Tennis Open, Paris Roland Garros (France) May 24: UEFA Europa League Final Solna (Sweden) May 27: FA Cup Final Wembley Stadium, London May 28: Monaco F1 Grand Prix Monaco May 29 - June 5: World Table Tennis Championship Dusseldorf (Germany) May 30: IndyCar Indianapolis 500 United States JUNE June 3: Football (Soccer)UEFA Champions League Final Cardiff (Wales) June 17-18: The 24 Hours of Le Mans Automobile Race France

May 4-7: Kentucky Derby Louisville (USA)

June 12-18: Golf US Open Chambers Bay in University Place Washington (USA)

May 5-21: Ice hockey IIHF World Championship Germany and France

June 17-27: America’s Cup Final Bermuda United Kingdom

May 12-22: Islamic Solidarity Games Baku, Azerbaijan

June 17 - July 2 Confederation Cup Russia Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

WORLDWIDE SPORTS DIRECTORY

June 23 - July 19: British Open Gold Cup Cowdray Park Polo Club, UK

September 15-27: Jockey Club Open Argentina

June 26 - July 23 ODI World Cup for Women (Cricket) England

September 17-24: UCI Road cycling World Championships Bergen (Norway)

June 29-July 12: Wimbledon London (England)

September 19 - October 18: Tortugas Open Argentina

JULY July 1-23: Tour de France 2017 (Cycling)

September 23-30: Invictus Games Toronto, Canada

July 7-10: Scotland Golf Open Championship

September 23 - October 1: World Rowing Championship Sarasota

July 17-26: World Fencing Championships Leipzig (Germany)

September 26-October 1: Presidents Cup Golf Tournament New Jersey (USA)

July 14-30: FINA World Swimming Masters Championships Budapest (Hungary)

September 30: AIBA World Champianship (Boxing) Hamburg, Germany

July 20-23: British Golf Open Royal Birkdale (Great Britain)

OCTOBER

July 21-30: Francaphone Games Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire July 25: Coronation Cup Guards Polo Club, London AUGUST August 4-13: World Athletics Championships London (England) August 5-18: World Police and Fire Games, Los Angeles or San Diego, USA August 7-13: Golf PGA Championship USA

October 20 - November 8: Hurlingham Polo Open Argentina October 23-November 1: World Championships (Artistic Gymnastics) Glasgow (Scotland) NOVEMBER November 15 - December 6: Polo at Palermo Argentina

August 19-31: South Eastern Games Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

November 27-29: Tennis Davis Cup final November 28 - December 5: IWF World Championships (Weightlifting) Anaheim, USA DECEMBER

SEPTEMBER

December 2-6: Cricket - Australia v England Second Ashes Test Adelaide (Australia)

September 19-12: San Jorge Open Argentina

December 9-17: Squash – World Championships Manchester (England)

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December 26: Horse Racing King George VI Chase Kempton (England)

October 17-22: African Patrons Cup Fifth Chukker Polo & Country Club Kaduna, Nigeria

November 7: Melbourne Cup (Horse Racing) Victoria, Australia

August 28 - September 10: Tennis US Open New York (USA)

December 26-30: Cricket – Australia v England, Fourth Ashes Test Melbourne (Australia)

October 2-8: World championships (artistic Gymnastics) Montreal, Canada

August 9-26: Women’s World Cup (Rugby) Ireland

August 21-27: BWF World Champianships (Badminton) Emirates Arena, Glasgow, Scotland

December 14-18: Cricket – Australia v England Third Ashes Test Perth (Australia)

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Hurley House You’ll wish Hurley House was your home…

Yasemen Kaner-White

Kaş

H

aving opened in August 2016, Hurley House; a boutique 10 en-suite bedroom hotel, though new, is already making waves. Logistically enviable in the heart of beautiful Berkshire, England, not far from Guard’s Polo Club for a spot of polo or Windsor Castle for essential sightseeing. The location is perfect for the tourist who wants a countryside alternative to the Capital. Likewise, for locals it’s a joy to jump in the car for a luxurious foodie getaway. With a menu created and cooked by Michelin starred Chef Michael Chapman and a wine list researched for six months, comprising of various small independent vineyards, along with the classics, guests are in for a treat.

Successful businessman Bassam Shlewet, founder and former Chairman of TTT Moneycorp Group is responsible for creating

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Hurley House from what was a worse-for-wear 18th Century pub.

Along with his team, he has certainly achieved the balance of character and charm from the old oak beams and scattered antique furniture, with uber modern plush light and bright fittings, sugar coated by tonal greys and whites provided by famous Farrow and Ball paint. The underfloor heating, comfy beds, wood burning stoves, soft fine linen and carefully selected coffee table books ensure a more homely, than hotel, feel. But, above all, in my opinion, it’s the dining experience that leaves a lasting memory.

South African born chef Chapman originally came to England for a working holiday to travel and see the world, but he did more than that, he had a complete career change. Originally a mechanical engineer, having begun at a small hotel in Crowthorne in the kitchen watching Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 8

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Dardanos Hotel

meals being microwaved and staff using “boil in the bag stuff”, he knew he could do better and so bought cookbooks, which began his culinary journey. He turned to Delia Smith to “start with the Goddess and learn the basics – the foundations”, as his cooking improved, he moved to another hotel in High Wycombe under the same ownership. The owner took him for a meal in Michelin starred chef Marcus Wareing’s restaurant and his interest in fine dining was ignited. He immediately applied to work in Wareing’s ‘Petrus’ restaurant and a month later, began, at the age of 30. Thrown in the deep end with early 7am morning starts and 3 am finishes, under pressure from Wareing and Gordon Ramsey, his talents grew but he knew he needed to get more experience in a smaller kitchen, so he made a move to Michelin restaurant Lindsay House, where there was a kitchen staff of 7, less than the previous 23 team. He then went on to work in the nearby Michelin Royal Oak restaurant pub, in Paley Street for 6 years, before joining Hurley House when it opened.

Whilst at the Royal Oak, he continued to buy cookbooks and practice and even took a Le Cordon Bleu course but left after a term, as it was “so basic”, plus other chefs enthused ‘it’s far more productive to get stuck in, in a good kitchen and get the experience’. He says “The Royal Oak – made me realise that whilst I appreciate good food I want to be in a nice and relaxed atmosphere, friends and family around, having fun, chatting and not paying exorbitant prices, so I’m likely to come back”, which he has created in Hurley House. “I create dishes with a bit of soul, you have to have soul, not too designed or style over substance, then you lose the essence of the dish”.

Chapman dictates that Hurley House Hotel only uses the freshest of locally-sourced ingredients from Berkshire’s leading farmers and producers, the game comes straight from the Crown Estate, organic free-range eggs from Wokingham and the fish and seafood are delivered from Brixham’s fishing boats daily. The Menu changes regularly

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as chef Chapman admits he “gets bored quickly”, so all the more exciting for diners and regulars like singer Tom Jones, celebrity chef Mary Berry and tycoon Peter Jones don’t get bored either.

Always loving local fare, I went for the wild Berkshire teal, venison and wood pigeon terrine with pickled mushrooms and quince which was melt-in-the-mouth delicious, served with crusty warm bread and butter hand-churned on site. Paired with a glass of 2015 Grüner Veltliner Lössterrassen, chosen by the sommelier as a good alternative to Chardonnay, floral, sweet and more rounded whilst not being directly acidic, no wonder Austrian wines are on the rise. For my main, another local treat, I chose the Windsor Estate roe deer with potato terrine, Jerusalem artichoke full of flamboyant flavour and desperately tender, Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

matching well with the spicy bouquet of the Valpolicella Ripasso wine, an interesting choice as there is a raisin flavour from half the grapes being sun-dried with the remaining half offering a fresher taste. My dinner companion, upon the recommendation of chef Chapman had the rose veal cutlet with king oyster mushrooms, capers and sage; “I like the veal cutlet because it is so simple, a classic, when you try to overcomplicate a dish you lose it” said chef Chapman. Pudding, persuaded by the waiter whose favourite it was, came in the form of a delectable bitter chocolate mousse with pistachio sponge and homemade pistachio ice cream. Just like the hand-churned ice-cream, the homegrown love and attention to detail in what Hurley House offers from bedroom to dining table, really does make a difference…

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Strength of the stallion La Puissance D’un Etalon

We are improving our services Nous améliorons nos services

With our new look, we are committed to being more responsive in serving you better in more refreshing and diverse ways that promises to keep you coming back for a superior retail experience in MRS Stations.

We are poised to deliver to you, family, friends and your vehicles; our unparalleled hospitality that is the hallmark of our existence as you drive up our forecourt.

Avec notre nouveau visage, nous nous engageons à être plus sensible à vos demandes et améliorer nos services de vente au détail afin de faire de votre expérience et visite dans les stations MRS une action récurrente, rafraichissante et varié.

Nous sommes prêts à offrir, à vous, votre famille, vos amis et ainsi qu’à vos véhicules, et ce dès votre arrivée dans nos stations, nôtre hospitalité renommée qui représente la marque de fabrique de notre compagnie.

HEAD OFFICE / SIÈGE SOCIAL: Plot 2, Tincan Island Port Road, Apapa, Lagos, Nigeria Tel: +234-1-07419000 www.mrsholdings.com

NIGERIA | BENIN | CAMEROUN | COTE D’IVIORE | GHANA | GUINEA | SENEGAL | TOGO | SWITZERLAND

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ADVERT

Kinloch Lodge Kinloch Lodge across the loch morning mist

A visit to the king of lodges Yasemen Kaner-White

H

aving stayed a few luxuriously, gourmand infused days at Kinloch Lodge, located in the otherworldly Isle of Skye; Scotland, I was reminded what the word ‘cosy’ should encapsulate. This boutique hotel was founded by the MacDonald family, whose family house it originally was, and that homely feeling remains. As Claire MacDonald succinctly summerises herself in her noteworthy book Lifting the Lid, “guests can choose to walk, snooze by one of our three log fires, relax and generally recharge their batteries for their busy lives”. I certainly did. Having flown into Inverness, I must admit as I sat, mindlessly staring out the train window from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh (thankfully the internet was so rotten work wasn’t an option), I was grateful for the train conductors advice “sit on the right hand side for the best views”. I suggest you do the same, for the striking ethereal vistas leave you dumbfounded and thankful to be alive.

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A short taxi ride from the station, past the famed black and red mountains or Cuillin, with the tip of the red Bein Na Caillich being home to the fabled ashes of a Norweigan Princess, along the controversial previously tolled, now free - Skye bridge, you feel you are entering a fairytale land, culminating in reaching Kinloch Lodge. With my feet barely through the door, I was welcomed by a beaming smile from Isabella, the MacDonald daughter at the helm of the lodge and the epitome of ‘hostess with the mostess’, as she offered me homemade, local Orkney butter infused sublime Scottish shortbread. The melt-in-themouth sensation set the benchmark for the mouthwatering meals yet to come, all crafted and cooked by Michelin starred chef Marcello Tully.

Whether you choose his set menu or go à la carte, fresh, locally sourced produce presented impeccably are guaranteed. Every meal time is an experience to be relished, but for me, having eaten umpteen breakfasts in hotels around the world, I shan’t be forgetting the Kinloch breakfast

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Kinloch Lodge across the loch

anytime soon. The first round bought to the table by well mannered staff showing just enough interest to be friendly but not too much to be irritating, comprised of freshly squeezed orange juice, a range of Claire’s home-made jams – the lime marmalade is a winner, decent grainy toast, delectable local butter, scrumptious crumbly warm straight-from-theoven scones and then whatever you choose as a main event. I chose Kedgeree, one of my all-time favourites; I can sincerely say, this creamy, perfectly balanced in spice, and generous haddock filled rice delight, was the best I have ever devoured.

Keen cooks and aspirational chefs will be delighted to know they can book a one-to-one cooking class with the affable Marcello. Albeit in a working kitchen, he cheerfully and calmly showed me the ropes around his top-notch cuisine, so confidently; I am sure I can replicate it at home – luckily you are given recipes from your class to take away.

Although it is tough to tear yourself away from Kinloch, it is worth using spare time between meals to explore the fruits of the surrounding area.

Try the nearby ‘The Oyster Shed’ literally a shack on a hill, looking out over the sea in which the fresh lobster, mussels and of course oysters on offer, have just been caught. Explore the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland; Dunvegan Castle and spot the seals on neighbouring Loch Dunvegan’s rocks. Take a dip (weather dependent) in the renowned healing pools of Skye or treat yourself to an afternoon tea only Claridges would be competition for, followed by a walk at Waternish Farm.

On top of romantic recollections of Kinloch, as I left, they also left me with a packed lunch for the journey home. As I opened my smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich parcel, I vowed both to visit the gym and book a return flight soon…

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Kinloch Luxury double room with view

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Kinloch Lodge North Lodge detail

Portrait and piano

Kinloch Whisky Bar sitting area

Kinloch dining room with food

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Kinloch Suite bed to sitting

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Kinloch Cured Salmon with beetroot and dill dressing Dardanos Hotel

Chef director Marcello Tully and owner Isabella Macdonald

MEET MARCELLO TULLY, THE MICHELIN STARRED CHEF OF MAGICAL KINLOCH LODGE…

As a Michelin starred chef, what 3 ingredients could you not do without in the kitchen?

Garlic, ginger & Tabasco At home, what 3 ingredients could you not live without in your kitchen?

My wife, my kids and my car

Slow roast lamb shoulder with pea puree and lotus root

What is the most memorable dish you have eaten?

Strawberry Soufflé at The Waterside Inn in the 90’s What dish are you most proud of which you have created for Kinloch Lodge?

Seafood collection – Chinese marinated hake, scallop Carpaccio, 1 day cured salmon, smoked mussels with a lime & mango gel – a true testament of Skye How much do the local ingredients affect your cooking?

It’s a given – As I’ve often said Skye’s rich larder is a chef’s paradise!

Do you find guests want something authentically Scottish?

Yes – they come to Kinloch with the expectation of Scottish ingredients being on the menu as well as maybe a dram of Whisky!

Stuffed seabass with butternut sauce & lotus root Apple crumble parfait, blackcurrant, apple sorbet, cinnamon doughnut

What do you enjoy most about living and working in Skye?

The spectacular views and generally a slower pace, however, as a chef, time is your worst enemy!

If you had to describe in a sentence what to expect from your cuisine at Kinloch, what would you say?

Delicious food with great attention to detail.

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GOOD BOOKS – BOOK REVIEW

The Help Kathryn Stockett

by Frances K White

Stockett’s strong, vivid story contrasts the characters of black maids versus their white employers. The setting of the book; the Deep South state of Jackson, Mississippi in the early 60’s, still possessing the only Flag incorporating the Confederate battle emblem.

Stockett concisely and believably portrays their dissimilar lifestyles and narratives and, importantly, the prevailing ‘Jim Crow’ mentality (the pejorative term encapsulating the civil rights activists struggle versus hard-line segregationists), the earlier historical impact of Rosa Parks yet to filter through. Whilst the Civil Rights Act of 1964 legally demolished segregation – Mississippi’s moral victory is questionable, due to the insidious resurgence of the Klansmen, and failure of moderate whites to suppress them.

We learn about white employers fearing ‘the Help’ using their bathrooms, or stealing the silver, yet, without hesitation, their most valuable treasures, their offspring, they entrusted to the help. To pigeonhole this book, think – ‘Gone with the Wind’ and ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ as surrogate parents!

The authentic feel of Stockett’s writing allows one to vicariously taste the deep fried chicken and okra, the chitterlings and turnip greens; inhale the sweet fragrance of the magnolia trees, feel the sultry midday heat and sense, palpably, the undignified segregation in public areas, emanating the pages. The three main characters are the white Miss Skeeter, home from college, finding her dearly loved maid Constantine missing, and two black maids, Minny, and Aibileen, whose relationship with the adorable Mae Mobley was appealingly embellished by Stockett.

These women are brought together with a collective wish to change years of prejudice and ignorance. To achieve this, Skeeter decides,

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necessarily nefariously, to interview these ladies, and later, their contemporaries, to then write a book about their lives. Initially, a New York publisher doubted any maid would have the courage to speak; borne out by Aibileen refusing Skeeter at her initial approach, but later persuaded, after hearing a Church sermon on courage. The narratives of all the participants are at once horrifying, funny, sad, enlightening, engaging…tales of unconscionable cruelty from employers, alongside deep loving tenderness when speaking of their white charges, albeit, like Aibileen, many had lost their own children.

A stand-out white bigot amongst the examples beautifully drawn by Stockett is the reptilian Miss Hilly, desperate to get a ‘Home Help Sanitation Initiative’ passed, requiring separate toilets for Negro employees, as “they have different diseases”. When her maid Minny uses her toilet, rather than go out in a violent storm, she sacked her, only for Minny to bake her a delicious pie, which she devoured with relish, until Minny revealed she had baked her own faeces within it! Skeeter knew that even if the maids in the book were recognised by Jackson’s white community, Hilly would be certain to suppress any outcry, desperate to ensure no-one discovered it was her who ate the pie!

Skeeter promised the maids she would distribute the book’s profits amongst them.

There then followed many other twists and turns in this fulsome book, not least, Skeeter and Aibileen taking separate paths in life, yet ending up in the same fork in their respective roads. This novel is as satisfying as a celebratory feast…and one that as you turn the last page, you immediately begin to miss the characters, leaving you wanting to complete their curriculum vitae alongside them; one can only hope, Stockett feels the same…

Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

GOOD BOOKS – BOOK REVIEW

Season of Crimson Blossoms Abubakar Adam Ibrahim

by Jennifer Nagu

Hajiya Binta Zubairu was finally born at fiftyfive when a dark-lipped rogue with short, spiky hair, like a field of minuscule anthills, scaled her fence and landed, boots and all, in the puddle that was her heart.”

Initially I mused over how one could paint a picture of Oedipal lust and sexual escapades between a 55 year-old widowed grandmother and a man half her age and still elevate it above incestuous licentiousness that is taboo to received norms. But Ibrahim frames it perfectly.

Thus opens the story in “Season of Crimson Blossoms,” Abubakar Adam Ibrahim’s racy debut novel about the titillating love affair between a 55-year-old widow, Binta Zubairu and a 26 year-old thug with the very unusual name of Hassan ‘Reza’.

The year may still be young but I can stake a small fortune that Ibrahim may go on to bag more accolades for the sheer ingenuity of this literary work, having already pocketed the $100,000 NLNG Nigerian prize for Literature in 2016. He beat 173 other entries, including Elnathan John’s ‘Born on a Tuesday’ and Chika Unigwe’s ‘Night Dancer’, the other novels on the final shortlist.

Ibrahim already earned fame in the past by winning the BBC African performance award, the Amatu Braide Prize, and was shortlisted for the Caine Prize for African writing. He is also widely recognized as a 2013 Gabriel Garcia Marquez Fellow and a 2015 Civitella Ranieri Fellow.

Set in a conservative Hausa society in northern Nigeria, Hajiya Binta, hijab and all, is a well-respected matriarch with unflinching devotion to the Islamic faith. Her son moved her to the outskirts of Abuja, following bloody ethno-religious clashes in Jos, one of which had claimed her husband. In the new abode she lives with her teenage niece, Fa’iza and granddaughter, Ummi who had just started primary school. The minors are staying with her as a result of the struggles that affect their part of the country. Beyond that, Binta still feels the desire to redeem herself for the loss of her first son, whose tragic death still haunts her.

Reza on the other hand is a notorious thug, the leader of San Siro, a local gang of drug Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

The Novel explores the themes of heartbreak, hope, desire, and collective humanity.

It examines the moral standards that govern our everyday living. It does a brilliant job of telling a story that powerfully deconstructs stereotypes. In an intriguing and very colorful fashion, the novel dissects the fragile facade of conservative Moralism. An extract touching on collective humanity:

peddlers and petty thieves.They are also on the payroll of a roguish local politician, Senator Buba Maikudi, who uses them whenever there is the need for enforcers at political events. He also deploys them to carry out other dangerous and nefarious activities behind the scenes.

The two meet when Reza breaks into Binta’s home to rob her. She mistakenly walks in on him in the course of the robbery. On seeing her, he also steals more stuff from her and takes off into the sunset.

Eventually, Reza feels remorseful at stealing from the older lady, who incidentally reminds him of his mother. On the other side, Binta is reminded of her son Yaro who passed on a decade and a half earlier, and who was also a thug. This subconscious dynamic eventually sparks the arresting passion that entangled the pair in a steamy relationship of unrestrained sexual indulgence.

As word of this illicit liaison spreads and draws condemnation and social ostracism for Binta, things get to a head when her wealthy son confronts the thug – with disastrous consequence.

“Binta fiddled with her fingers. ‘ My husband, God rest his soul, was killed by some Christian boys he employed. They were people he called by their birth names and did business with. My sister’s husband and her son were hacked to death by their Christian neighbors because a woman urged them to. But my sister and her daughters were saved from being raped and murdered by a Christian woman whose husband had been killed by some Muslim youths... I want you to understand why I have not given up on humanity, and why I won’t give up on you.”

The story also examines love and its driving power. This book is written with respect and love slathered all over. We are not talking the chocolates, cheesy poetry and flowers mimicry that are the staple of many African writers of romance fiction. This is a true love story of the heart, set among a people who live under complex and challenging situations soaked in religion.

This is fiction the way it was intended; expertly written in the third person, not the play pretend fiction or thinly veiled biographical mush of a first person narrative. As an added benefit, it is a story with a well-researched history, perfectly rendered to encapsulate the many actors in today’s political scene. It does a good job of

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GOOD BOOKS – BOOK REVIEW

portraying corruption and bipartisanship which is prominent in politics around the world.

It is also interesting to see that Binta, after everything, is not presented as an object of vile; instead she is portrayed as a person to be respected. This makes it easy for anyone to forgive her. Even the character of Reza, the rogue, tends to obtain compassion and understanding from the reader in spite his bad deeds. This affirms Ibrahim’s brave creative dexterity, weaving the plot to drive the characters to a redemptive end.

Meanings are sometimes hidden and left to challenge the average mind. You will appreciate the poeticism of his language here as well: “ After growing wings through her discretion, Hajiya bInta, contrary to her expectation did not transform into an eagle, but an owl that thrived in the darkness in which she and Reza communed.”

Also the use of code mixing as a speech style, even the coming together of two or more linguistic expressions was brilliant. People may also see it as a literary use for aesthetics or emphasis.

For example, “Oh trust me you won’t want your wife smelling of all the makamashi; all that burnt rubber and whatnot.”

Furthermore, the entire novel reads in an authentic voice that would have been distorted if written from a different perspective.

Thankfully the novel is grounded in traditional authenticity and peppered with phrases written in the language of the characters; Hausa. For non-Hausa speakers some phrases will be tough to navigate and thus slow down understanding of the story. It would however open you up to new aspects of the conservative Hausa orientation.

Because of the pace, this book is not the type that would keep you up all nigh feverishly trying to get to the conclusion. It is the kind of book I found myself pausing and doing other tasks even as it went to its climax. What the book does is show everyone going through varied situations like those portrayed in the book that they are not alone.

Extract: She regarded him with a frown. ‘Mallam Haruna, yaya dai?’

‘Nothing, nothing,’ he laughed, uneasily. ‘Perhaps we could meet somewhere else.’

‘What for?’

‘Well,’ he lowered his voice, ‘well, we could just go somewhere else, you know, just get to know each other better.’

‘What do you mean?’

He was unsettled by the bluntness of her tone. ‘Well, you know, I was just saying we could go somewhere private, you know—’ ‘What for?’

He turned on his radio and fiddled with the knob, sweeping past stations.

She said nothing, only watched him search for a discernible voice in the sea of static.

He switched the radio off just as suddenly as he had turned it on.

‘So, what do you say?’

‘To what?’

‘You know, what I said, about going somewhere.’

‘What do you have to say that you can’t say here?’

‘Well, we could go to Mr Biggs, or Mama Cass or La Crème, one of these fancy places, you know.’

‘I am not hungry.’

‘Well, I don’t mean now, of course, silly. Perhaps tomorrow.’

‘I have a kitchen and a store full of food. If I’m hungry, I know how to cook.’

He laughed, ‘Binta ke nan. Why are you being difficult?’ It came out as a statement.

‘Mallam, I am not going anywhere with you. I am not a young girl to be gallivanting about.’

He lowered his head and sighed. He switched on the radio again and began fiddling with the knob absently.

‘Switch it off, dan Allah.’

He put the radio by his side and then picked it up again. Then he removed his cap and scratched his scalp. Finally, he said he was leaving and they stood up.

She shook her hijab. ‘Sai da safe.’

‘Binta,’ he called as she made to leave. ‘Perhaps, you know, we could go to a hotel, you and I—’

This book is highly informative as one is able to relate to the socio-political pollution of the immediate environment of the characters, especially that of Reza, Gattuso and Joe. One can only agree with the author that there are political implications as well as historical consequences for the ignorance of the people in Northern Nigeria.

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Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

Emir of Kano

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Events

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THE INTERNATIONAL POLO CLUB DIRECTORY No matter where your travels may take you around the globe, be sure to pack your polo mallets. There is always a good chance of finding a club to play at nearby... or indeed a game to watch!

ARGENTINA 1. Campo Argentino de Polo, Palermo www.aapolo.com 2. Coronel Suarez Polo Club www.coronelsuarezpoloclub.com poloclubcoronelsuarez@speedy.com.ar +54 29 26 431538 3. Ellerstina Polo Club www.ellerstina.com.ar poloweek@ellerstina.com.ar 4. Hurlingham Club, Buenos Aires 4662-5510 al 14 www.hurlinghamclub.org.ar secretaria@hurlinghamclub.com.ar 5. La Alegria Polo Club www.alegriapolo.com patricio@alegriapolo.com 6. La Dolfina Polo Ranch www.ladolfinapoloranch.com 7. Tortugas Country Club, Tortugas www.tortugascountryclub.com.ar AUSTRIALIA 1. Sydney Polo Club, Richmond 61 2 4588 5000 www.sydneypolo.com admin@sydneypolo.com 2. Victorian Polo Club, Armadale, Vic (03) 9576 0391 www.vicpolo.com deb@vicpolo.com AUSTRIA 1. Union Polo Club, Laundorf Ebreichsdorf Tel: 43 4213 32140 Email: office@dienstgut.com; www.dienstlgut.com 2. Schlog Polo Club Tel: 445 2254 72368; Email: secretariat.drasche@aon.at BARBADOS 1. Apes Hill Polo Club (246) 262-3282 www.apeshillclub.com info@apeshillpolobarbados.com BELGIUM 1. La Chatta Polo Club, Koningshooikt Tel: 32 478 88 1091 Email: info@lachatta.be; www.lachatta.be 2. Antwerp Polo Club Tel: 32 3665 1675; Email: Turnhout antwerppoloclub@hotmail.be 3. Bossenstein Golf & Polo, Broeckem Tel: 32 03 485 6446. www.bossenstein.be BRAZIL 1. Helvetia Polo Club, Sao Paulo 55 (019) 3875 4566 www.helvetiapolo.com.br CANADA 1. Toronto Polo Club, Markham, ON 905-888-7656 www.torontopoloclub.com

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CHINA 1. Tang Polo Club, Beijing 86 (010) 8051 9200 www.tangpolo.com service@tangpolo.com COSTA RICA 1. Los Reyes Polo Club, La Guacima 506 2290 2525 www.losreyescr.com fmpos@hotmail.com CHILE 1. Club de Polo Las Mercedes, Rancagua 56 (72) 5421.740 ENGLAND 1. Ascot Park Polo Club, Surrey Tel: +44 1276858545; email: www.polo.co.uk 2. Beaufort Polo Club, Gloucestershire Tel: + 441666 880510; email: enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk, www.beaufortpoloclub.co.uk 3. Beverly Polo Club, East Yorkshire Tel: + 44 1964 544455; email: info@beverlypoloclub.co.uk, www. beverlypoloclub.co.uk 4. Binfield Heath Polo Club, Oxon Tel: 07792 211259 / 07817 05871; email: bhpcmanager@gmail.com 5. Cambridge & Newmarket Polo Club, Cambridgeshire Tel: + 44 1638 572030; email: aes3@cam.ac.uk; www.cnpc.org.uk6.

Cheshire Polo Club, Cheshire Tel: 01270 611100; email: info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk 7. Cirencester Park Polo, Gloucestershire Tel: +44 1885 65 3225; email: info@cirencester.co.uk; www.cirencesterpolo.co.uk 8. Cowdary Park Polo Club, West Essex Tel: 01730 813257; email: enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk 9. Coworth Park Polo Club, Sunninghill, Ascot, Berkshire Tel: 01344875155; email: enquiiries@thepolocentree.com 10. Edgeworth Polo Club, Gloucestershire Tel: + 44 1285 821 695; email: edgeworthpolo@gmail.com 11. Epsom Polo Club, Surrey Tel: +44 1372 749 490; email: epsompoloclub@hotmail.com; www.epsompoloclub.co.uk 12. FHM Polo Club, West Essex Tel: + 44 7778 436 468; email: francis@fhmpolo.co.uk; www.Fhmpolo.co.uk 13. Guards Polo Club, Surrey Tel: +44 1748 434 212; email: administration@guardspoloclub.com; www.Guardspoloclub.com 14. Ham Polo Club, Surrey Tel: +44 20 8334 0000; email: administrator@hampoloclub.com; www.hampoloclub.com 15. Heathfield Polo Club, Oxon Tel: 01869351111; email: info@heathfiueldpark.com 16. Hurtwood Park Polo Club, Surrey Tel: +44 1438 272 828; Hurtwood Park@btconnect.com; www.HurtwoodParkpolo.co.uk Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 10

INTERNATIONAL POLO DIRECTORY 17. Inglesham Polo, Centre Wiltshire Tel: +44 1367 253939; email: polo@Inglesham-Polo-demon.co.uk; www.Inglesham-Polo-demon.co.uk 18. Kirtlington Park Polo Club, Oxon Tel: +44 1869 350138; email: kirtlington@aol.com; www.kirtlingtonpolo.com 19. Knepp Castle Polo Club, Sussex Tel: 07920 023639; email: info@aspectpolo.co.uk; www. aspectpolo.co.uk20. Light Dragoons Polo Club, Norfolk Tel:01362 627852; www.lightdragoons.com 21. New Forest Polo Club, Hampshire Tel: +44 1425 473359; email: derekval@waitrose.com; www.newforestpoloclub.co.uk 22. Orchard Polo Club, Dorset Tel: 01258 471000; www.orchardpoloclub.com 23. Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club Tel: +44 1344 890060; email: info@rcbpoloclub.com; www.rcbpoloclub.com 24. Royal Leamington, Spa, Warwickshire Tel: 01926 812409; email: info@rtspoloclub.com; www.rtspoloclub.com 25. RMA Sandhurst Polo Club, Surrey Tel: 01276 412276; email: dentonsyard@maspolo.com; www.maspolo.com 26. Rugby Polo Club, Warwickshire Tel: +44 1788 817724; email: rugbypoloclub@btconnect.com; www.rugbypoloclub.com27.

27. Rutland Polo Club, Leicestershire Tel: +44 1572 770747; email: bls400@hotmail.com; www.rutlandpoloclub.co.uk 28. Sussex Polo Club, West Sussex Tel: +44 1342 714920; email: info@sussexpolo.co.uk 29. Taunton Vale Polo Club, Somerset Tel: +44 1823 480460; email: nhs@nhs.supanet.com; www.tauntonvalepolo.co.uk 30. Tidworth Polo Club, Hampshire Tel: +44 1980 846705; email: tidpolo@aol.com; www.tidworthpolo.com 31. Toulston Polo Club, Yorkshire Tel: 01422 372529; INFO@TOULSTONPOLOCLUB.COM 32. West Somerset Polo Club, Somerset Tel: 01398 341515; email: anne@eswoprthycottage.orangehome.co.uk 33. West Wycombe Park Polo Club Buckinghamshire Tel: +44 1494 449 187; email: WestWycombeParkPoloClub.freeserve.co.uk 34. Hertfordshire Polo Club, Woolmers Park Tel: + 44 01707 256023; email:polo@herts.co.uk FINLAND 1. Hyvinkaa Polo Club, Hyyppara Tel: 358 19 485 521; email: mika.lindroos@finnishpolo.org FRANCE 1. Aix-Pertuis Polo Club, Pertuis Tel: 06 67 73 37 53;. email: joelle.eynard.yahh.fr. www.polo-france-aixpert.com 2. Alpilles Polo Club, Saint Andiol Tel: 06 86 58 83 58 / 06 89 60 32 7; Mail: polosud@orange.fr www.alpillespoloclub.fr 3. Armor Polo Club, La Foret Fouesnant Tel: 0689989236; www.polo-chefdubois.fr 4. Brennus Polo Club, Thorigne Sur Oreuse Tel: 06 23 85 83 51; Mail: contact@brennus-polo-club.fr www.brennus-polo-club.fr 5. Brittany Polo Club, Guerande Tel: 02-40-62-02-64; Mail: info@brittanypoloclub.com www.brittanypoloclub.com 6. Calvados Polo Club, Calvados Tel : 02 31 31 19 85; 06 08 30 76 10; (mobile) E-mail : calvadospoloclub@f ree.fr Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 10

7. Congor Polo Club, Guerande Tel: 33 [0]2 40 62 02 64; mob: 068142 Email: mfdarritchon@fibertel.com.ar 8. Deauville International Polo Club Tel: 33 0 231 88 26 68; Mail: Deauville@pololine.com; www.deauvillepoloclub.com 9. Doyac Polo Club, Saint Seurin de Cardoune Tél. : 05 56 59 34 49; Mail: chateau.doyac@wanadoo.fr; www.chateaudoyac.fr/news/7/news.html 10. La Grange-Martin Polo Club Tel: 01-69-07-51-10; Mail: lagrangemartin@aol.com www.grangemartin.com 11. Latino Polo Club, Vauville Tel: 02 31 39 20 85; Mail: latinopoloclub@yahoo.fr12.

Le Chateau Polo Club, Brinay Tél. : 02-48-51-39-47; Mail: chateaudelabrosse@sfr.fr www.chateaudelabrosse.unblog.fr 13. Mariana Polo Club, Morsang, Président Paul Pinto; Tel: 06 12 38 17 86; Email: contact@lamariana.org 14. Medoc Polo Club, Vendays-Montalivet Tél. : 06-77-81-88-71; Mail : medocpolo@gmail.com www.medocpoloclub.com 15.Morsang Polo Club, Longvilliers, Tel: 0164 59 15 06 16. Passion Polo Club, Montigne Les Raines Tél. : 02-41-90-14-80; Mail: alibert.nc49@gmail.com; www.passionpoloclub.fr 17. Polo Club Biarritz Pays-Basque, Arbonne Tel: 06-64-19-82-82; Mail: contact@biarritzpoloclub.com www.biarritzpoloclub.com 18. Polo Club de La Moinerie, Saint Arnoult Enyvelines Tel: 01-42-21-11-80; Mail : poloclublamoinerie@gmail.com www.poloclublamoinerie.com 19. Polo Club de Plaisance, Villemurlin Tel: 02-38-36-43-69; Mail: reine. jpierre@wanadoo.fr http://plaisancepoloclub.free.fr 20. Polo Club de Touraine Tel: 02-47-92-77-65; Mail: secretariat@polo-touraine.com www.polo-touraine.com 21. Polo Club des Tostes, Bonneville La Louvet Tel: 06 88 18 14 63; Mail: bastien.mestrallet@morsangliere.fr www.fermedestostes.com 22. Polo Club du Bouloy, Villemurlin Tel: 02-38-36-48-70; Mail: lebouloy@orange.fr www.poloclubdubouloy.fr 23. Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly Tel: 03-44-64-04-3; Mail: secretariat@poloclubchantilly.com; www.poloclubchantilly.com 24. Polo Club du Pays de Fontainebleau Tel: 01 64 78 34 76; Mail: anelise.reinbold@live.fr www.polodefontainebleau.blogspirit.com 25. Polo de Paris Tel: 01-44-14-10-00; Mail: @polodeparis.com 26. Polo Porte des Sables, Calais Tel: 06-14-01-90-99; Mail: th.vasseur@wanadoo.fr; www.poloportedessables.fr/ 27. Riviera Polo Club, Montauroux Domaine de Pijaubert Tel: +33(0)668660547 Mail: info@riviera-polo-club.fr Alexia Pike 28. Saint-Tropez Polo Club Tel: 04-94-55-22-12; Mail: contact@polo-st-tropez.com www.polo-st-tropez.com 29. San Marco Polo Club, Montpellier San marco Tel: 06 99 65 42 40; Mail: contact@montpellierpolo.com www.montpellierpolo.com 30. Touquet Polo Club, Le Touquet Paris Plage.

Tel: 06-07-52-18-09; email:contact@touquetpolo.com; www.touquetpolo.com 31. Chantilly Polo Club, Chantilly www.poloclubchantilly.com

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INTERNATIONAL POLO DIRECTORY GERMANY 1. Berlin Brandenburg Polo Club Tel 030 - 802 70 68 email: info@berlin-polo.de; www.berlin-polo.de2.

Berliner Polo Club Bergmannstr. 3, 14163 Berlin, Tel. 030 - 84 10 87 20; Mobil 0172 - 393 91 78; Email: info@berliner-polo-club.de 3. Mecklenburger Polo club Tel. 039957 – 21177; email: hamaltzahn@aol.com 4. Polo Club Heiligendamm Tel: 038203 – 77439; Fax: 038203 – 77004; email: horst.schuessler@t-online.de 5. Norddeutscher Polo Club, Hamburg Tel. 040 511 64 41; Fax 040 511 34 86; www.hamburgerpologestuet.de email: thomas.winter@pologestuet.de 6. Hamburg Polo Club Tel: 040 82 06 81; email: secretariat@hamburger-polo-club-de 7. Timmendorfer Polo Club Tel. 0160-93 38 67 06; email: as@polo-timmendorfer-strand.de; www.polo-timmendorfer-strand.de 8. Schleswig-Holstein Polo Club Tel: 04123 - 92 29 0; Fax: 04123 - 92 29 20; email: info@Polo-Academy.de 9. Sylt Polo Club Tel. 040 830 38 70; Fax 040 830 38 30; email: info@polosylt.de; info@PoloMasters.de 10. Niederrheinischer Polo-Club Tel. 02801-2091; email: kontakt@gestuet-ullenboomshof.de 11. Frankfurt Polo Club Tel: 0611 - 52 28 41; e-mail: FrankfurterPoloclub@t-online.de www.frankfurterpoloclub.de; twitter: www.twitter.com/frankfurterpolo 12. Stuttgart Polo Club Tel. 0711 - 60 86 37 & 0711 - 649 24 54; email: info@polo-club-stuttgart.de, www.polo-club-stuttgart.de 13. Chiemsee Polo Club, Ising Tel. 08667/ 79-0 email: w.niederberger@murschhauser.de; www.chiemseepolo.de 14. Polo Club Bayern Tel. 089/ 361 58 87; Fax 089 36 31 81; email: info@poloclub-bayern.de www.poloclub-bayern.de 15. Bavaria Polo Club Tel: 089 384 760 29; Fax 089 384 760 31; email: wolf.jage@gmx.de; www.bavaria-polo-club.de 16. Landsberg-Ammersee Polo Club Tel. 0173 - 36 55 325; Fax: 08194 - 93 20 82; email: info@polo-landsberg.de 17. Franken Polo Club Tel. 0911 230 820; Fax 0911 204 370; email: dr.huehnlein@t-online.de GHANA 1.Accra Polo Club, Accra 233 (0) 244 358 922 accrapoloclub@yahoo.com GREECE 1. Athens Biding Polo Club Tel: 30 1940 90000; email; papan180@aol.com 2. Pegasus Polo Club, Koropi Tel: 30 291 22067; email: pegasuspolo@hotmail.com HOLLAND 1. DTZ Polo Club, Bergseweg 28, 3633 AK Vreeland, dtz@polo.nl 2. Polo Club Deuverden, Donkeresteeg Tel: 070 3249650 3. The Dutch Polo and Country Club Tel: 31 343 52 1795; email: dpcc@polo.nl; 4. Wassenaar Polo Club, Waalsdorperlaan Tel: 070 3249650; www.poloclubwaenaar.nl 5. Deuverden Polo Club, Putten Tel: 06-23054348; email: info@poloclubdeuverden.nl

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HUNGARY 1. La Estancia Polo Club, Budapest Tel: 36 209 914 121; email u.zimmermann@interware.hu 2. Budapest Polo Club Tel: 36 30 941 6679, email: u.zimmermann@interware.hu INDIA 1. Jaipur Riding & Polo Club www.jaipurpolo.com kgarcha@jaipurpolo.com IRELAND 1. All Ireland Polo Club, Phoenix Park, Dublin Tel: 00 353 1 677 6248; email: polo@allirelandpoloclub.com 2. Wicklow Polo Club Tel: 00 353 404 67164; Mobile: 00 353 87 2869691; Fax: 00 353 404 67363, Email: siobhan@polowicklow.com 3. Moyne Polo Club, County Laois Tel: 00 353 502 36135; Fax: 00 353 502 36282 4. Waterford Polo Club Tel: 00353 51 647908; Fax: 00 353 51 647477; Email: eurocabs@indigo.ie 5. Limerick Equestrian and Polo Centre Tel: +353 61 320292 or 087 2254734; Email: limerickpolo@eircom.net 6. Northern Ireland Polo Club, Tandragee Castle, County Armagh, Tel/Fax: 028 3884 1100; Email: shutchinson@tayto.com 7. Brannockstown Polo Club, County Kildare Phone: 00 353 (0)45 483 708; Email: polo@brannockstownpoloclub.com 8. Bunclody Polo Club, County Wexfrod Tel/Fax: 087 6605917; Email: rhogg@eircom.net 9. Border Reivers Polo Club, Pittlesheugh, Berwickshire.

Tel: 01890 840 777 or 07764 960 054 ITALY 1. La Fiorina Polo Club, Verona Tel: +39 348 883 4324; + 39 348 883 4323; email: info@lafiorina.com; www.lafiorina.com 2. La Ginevra Polo Club Tel: +39 0690 85320; Email: laginevrapoloclub@tiscalinet.it 3. Ambrosiano Polo Club :Poncia, Tel: +39 342 0574772 /email: info@lanuovaponcia.it; www.lanuovaponcia.it 4. Argentario Polo Club: Tuscany, Tel: 00 39 331 7910101; email: info@argentariopoloclub; www.argentariopoloclub.com 5. Acquedetto Polo Club Rome: Tel: 06.9476830 or 335.372427; email: max@acquedottoromanopoloclub.com www.acquedottoromanopoloclub.com 5. Asso.Punta Ala Equitazione: Tel +39 0577 33392 6. Firenze Polo Club: Tel: 00 39 3487 82 19 18; email: segretaria@firenzepoloclub.it; www.firenzepoloclub.it 7. Ginevra Polo Club, Riano Tel: 00 39 0690 85 320;email: laginevrapoloclub@tiscali.it 8. Milano Polo Club Mesero Tel: 00 39 0297 28 92 92; email:milanopolo@tiscali.it; http://www.milanopolo.com/ 9. Roma Polo Club: Tel: 00 39 06 807 09 07; email: romapolo@tin.it; http://www.romapoloclub.it/index.html 10. Villa Sesta Polo Club: Tel: 00 39 055 99 82 42; email: info@villasestapoloclub.com; www.poloclubvillaasesta.com/demo/index.php JAMAICA 1. Kingston Polo Club (876)926-2916 www.kingstonpoloclub.com info@kingstonpoloclub.com Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

INTERNATIONAL POLO DIRECTORY KENYA 1. Nairobi Polo Club, Nairobi 0722 264217 www.polokenya.com

11. Real Club de la Puerta de Hierro, www.rcphierro.com

MONGOLIA 1. Genghis Khan Polo Club, Orkhan National Park 97688114014 www.genghiskhanpolo.com genghiskhanpoloclub.gmail.com

SWEDEN

12. Soto Mozanaque Polo Club, Madrid, Tel: 91 350 16 62 - 28.036

13. Santa Maria Polo Club, Sotogrande MALTA Tel. +34 956 610 012 - Fax +34 956 610 132; 1. Malta Polo Club, San Guam, Tel: 356 79 476 491; info@maltapolo.com Mail; info@santamariapoloclub.com

NEW ZEALAND 1. Auckland Polo Club www.aucklandpolo.co.nz openmanager@aucklandpolo.co.nz PHILIPPINES 1. Manila Polo Club 63 2 817 0951 www.manilapolo.com ogm@manilapolo.com.ph PORTUGAL 1. Polo Estancia Santo Estavao Tel: 351 63 949 634 info@poloestancia.com; www.poloestancia.comt RUSSIA 1. “Tseleevo Golf and Polo Club”, Tseleevo Village, 56th kilometer of Dmitrovskoe Shosse, Dmitrovskij Area, Moscow Region +7 (916) 018-87-88 info@moscowpoloclub.com SAN MARINO 1. Titano Polo Club, Tel: 378 990 454 email:editano@omniway.sm SCOTLAND 1. Dundee and Pert Polo Club, Pertshire, Tel: 07831 365 194 2. Edinburgh Polo Club, Mid Lothiam Tel: 131 449 66965, jdpolo@tinyonline.co.uk, www.eteamz.com/edinburghpolo SINGAPORE 1. Singapore Polo Club, Singapore (65) 6854 3999 www.singaporepoloclub.org enquiry@singaporepoloclub.org SOUTH AFRICA 1. Kurland Polo Club, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape 27 (44) 534 8082 www.kurland .co.za info@kurland.co.za 2. Val de Vie 27 21 863 6100 www.valdevie.co.za info@valdevie.co.za 3. Jurassic Park Polo Club 27 39 747 4401 www.jurassicparkpolo.co.za mail@jurassicparkpolo.co.za SPAIN 1. Andés Polo Club, Tel: 34 676097374; Email, Andés Navia 33700, 2. Club de Campo Villa de Madrid, Tel: 357.21.32, Tel: 91 550 20 10; Fax: 915 50 20 31; www.clubvillademadrid.com 3. Club de Polo Cal Picasal-- Barcelona, Tel: 93-478.23.46.

4. Club de Polo de Mallorca y Baleares, Email: info@poloclubmallorca.com; www.poloclubmallorca.com 5. Club de Polo Santa Antoni De Viladrau, Barcelona.

Tel. +34 607 557 288 Email: info@santantonipoloclub.com 6. Club de Polo Soto Mozanaque, Tel: 91 350 16 62 - 28.036 7. Polo del Sol, Finca Burlanguilla, Cádiz, Spain, Tel: +34 856030042 Mobile: +34 60003694, 8. Real Club de Polo de Barcelona, Tel: 93-402.93.00.

9. Real Club de la Puerta de Hierro, Madrid, Tel: 316 - 17 45 28 035 10. Ampurdan Polo Club, Tel. +34 639 548 69; www.clubdepoloampurdan.com Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 11

1. Almare Starket Polo and Country Club, Kungsangem Tel: 0708 583 530 email: irene.seth@almare.se SWITZERLAND 1. Geneva Polo Club, Tél: +41 791019638 Mail : info@genevapoloclub.com; www.genevapoloclub.com 2. Bern Polo Club, Rubigen Tel: + 41 31 721 36 30 Mobile: +41 79 946 55 44 mail;info@polobern.ch 3. Gstaad Polo Cub, Tel: +41 33 744 07 40 Mail info@pologstaad.ch 4. St. Moritz Polo, Tel. +41 81 839 92 92 · Fax +4181 839 92 00; E-Mail: info@polostmoritz.ch THAILAND 1. Thai Polo and Equestrian Club 66 81 61 74 744 www.thai-polo-club.com santithaipoloclub@yahoo.com UAE 1. Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, Dubai, UAE 971 4 3617111 www.poloclubdubai.com info@poloclubdubai.com 2. Dubai Polo Club, Desert Palm, Dubai, UAE 971 50 3434557 www.dubaipoloclub.com martin.dubaipolo@gmail.com UNITED STATES 1. Aiken Polo Club, Aiken SC (803) 270-6195 www.aikenpoloclub.org aikenpoloclub@bellsouth.net 2. Country Farms Polo Club, Medford, NY (631) 345-9585 www.country-farms.com bob@country-farms.com 3. Eldorado Polo Club, Indio, CA (760) 342-2223 www.eldoradopoloclub.com eldorado@eldoradopoloclub.com 4. Gulfstream Polo Club, Lake Worth, FL (562) 965-2057 www.gulfstreampolo.com seemaria@bellsouth.com 5. Greenwich Polo Club, Greenwich, CT (203) 561-5821 www.greenwichpoloclub.com leightonjordan@whitebirchpaper.com 6. International Polo Club Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, FL (561) 204-5648 www.internationalpoloclub.com jnewman@internationalpoloclub.com 7. Santa Barbara Polo Club, Carpinteria, CA (805) 684-6683 www.sbpolo.com melanjaj@gmail.com 8. Saratoga Polo Association, LLC; Saratoga Springs, NY (518) 584-8108 www.saratogapolo.com jrossi@saratogapolo.com 9. Southampton Polo Club, Water Mill, NY (561) 848-1650 www.southamptonpolo.com shamptonpolo@yahoo.com 10. Aspen Valley Polo Club, Aspen, CO (970) 710-1663 www.worldsnowpolo.net aspenvalleypolo@bellsouth.net 11. Meadowbrook Polo Club, Old Westbury, NY (631) 345-9585 www.meadowbrookpolo.com 12. Myopia Polo Club, Hamilton, MA (978)468-7656 www.myopiapolo.org info@myopiapolo.org WALES 1. Monmouthshire Polo Club, Lower Machen, Tel: 01633 441322

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1130

Panorama Route, Mpumalanga

Travel package includes: • An economy-class return ticket.

• Quality accommodation in a star-graded establishment.

• A variety of uniquely South African experiences.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Mpumalanga, where you’ll enjoy so much more for far less than you thought possible.

Terms & Conditions apply.

ALLOW US TO TAKE YOU ON A

MAJESTIC JOURNEY

IN THE PLACE WHERE THE SUN RISES.

Watch the sun rise over majestic mountain tops, in the heart of the Kruger National Park. Enjoy a leisurely drive along the Panorama Route to the colourful villages of the Ndebele people. Then tantalise your tastebuds with mouth-watering cultural cuisine, and top it all off with wild encounters on a sunset safari or with an indulgent outdoor spafari treatment.

In the Swati, Xhosa, Ndebele and Zulu languages, Mpumalanga means “the place where the sun rises”. Your majestic journey begins now.

Plan your Mpumalanga getaway at www.southafrica.net

COMMAND the FIELD Gulfstream aircraft are prized for record-breaking speed and distance, allowing you to set the pace for all your travel needs. Make the most of your play time, your work time and every hour in between when you fly Gulfstream.

NICOLAS ROBINSON | +65 9650 9286 | nicolas.robinson@gulfstream.com | GULFSTREAM.COM