Contents People
Segway Polo Interview with Ryan Rodriguez Q: When did Segway Polo begin in Barbados? A: Sometime around December 2008, or January 2009
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yan Rodriguez is one of a handful of the Segway-elite; those few and proud who have mastered the delicate art of Segway riding. They have taken this masterful talent and channelled it into something more exciting, more invigorating – they have made it even more fun! “They” are “The Flying Fish”, the world champions of Segway Polo. Yes, you read that right; Segway Polo. It’s a variation on the age-old sport of kings regularly played on horses, but these guys play it on Segways. A Segway is like a scooter but it’s erect; you stand up on it and hold onto an upright handle and command movement and direction by leaning your body. They’re a lot of fun and are available for scenic tours. However, Ryan and the rest of “The Flying Fish” have taken Segway riding to whole new level and they’re not the only ones. I had a little chat with Ryan recently to get some more insight into this very interesting new sport; read on for more on Segway Polo. Name: Ryan Rodriguez Claim to Fame: Segway Polo player and member of the 2 time “WOZ Cup” winning team, “The Flying Fish”. Position: Goal Keeper or Defense
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Q: How did you get involved? A: Jason Gilkes, the owner of Segway of Barbados, called me to say that he wanted to try something new on the Segways that he currently rents for tours. He wanted to get his friends together for some “sport and fun” and he said he had looked on the internet and found “Segway Polo”. Shortly thereafter, with the help of Jason’s dad and some “Modified” Horse Polo sticks or Mallets, about 8 friends got together and played around for the first time. It was immediately enjoyable and completely addictive! Soon after that we were invited by Teddy Williams to play a demonstration match and the conclusion of a real Horse Polo tournament at Apes Hill Polo Club. Q: Since its inception, how popular has Segway Polo become? A: We currently have about 15 to 20 dedicated members and 2 full teams, but many more people have come and tried it out. I would not say it’s as popular as Cricket, but we are working on that! Q: Where and when do the matches take place? A: We usually practice about 2 to 3 times a week at Friendship Sports Field in Hothersal Turning depending on the weather and other factors. Q: What do you enjoy about it? A: The Exercise factor is great. Just kidding! Really it’s the camaraderie and fun that we have on the field. Let’s face it, it’s not the most serious sport in the world, it’s just absolutely fun to play. Q: Tell me about the WOZ Cup. What is it? When is it? A: The WOZ Challenge Cup, as it’s officially called, is also known as the World Cup of Segway Polo. It was started about 6 years