Polo Times April 2024

YOU CAN TAKE THE BOY OUT OF CAMBRIDGE…

Interview with JP Clarkin

C.V WHITNEY CUP CAMBIASO CONTEST

Cambiaso Secures Win Wth Valiente

ARENA GOLD CUP Success for Ojo Caliente

PLUS: Beaufort Club Spotlight, Queen’s Cup Pink Polo & Seb Hancock’s Passions

Forget bland aromas on opening. This gin has a different twist and lends itself to botanical flavours. Add mint, basil or a strawberry to the drink – a first for this occasional gin drinker – and a winning formula is created.

What’s inside… April 2024

As the Easter egginduced chocolate mist fades away, the April issue of Polo Times will be landing on subscribers’ doorsteps, packed with something for everyone.

Here at Polo Times we always try to champion low goal, grass roots and youth polo and this issue is no different with a spotlight on: Heathfield School, Beaufort Polo Club, The SUPA National Schools Arena Championships and young British player, Monty Threadgold’s, experience in The Youth Polo World Cup in Dubai.

Reports from the Arena Gold and Silver Cups closes another UK arena season, but there is no rest as the ponies needed for the upcoming summer grass season are already in work. Balancing a pony’s nutritional weight gain with the potential risk of overfeeding when it is coming back into work after a winter off, is a fine balancing act, particularly for a ‘good-doer’ in any string. Treating horses as individuals is key to achieving success in the feed department, so getting advice from polo’s wellrespected horse feed suppliers, will definitely help you in this quest. With their respected founders’ strong polo backgrounds, both Tally Ho Farm and Baileys are well placed to provide excellent advice to help you get your equine athlete in tip-top shape.

This issue also has a strong, yet coincidental, New Zealand theme with a report from the country’s oldest polo trophy – The Savile Cup; an interview with John Paul Clarkin and as well as an insight into New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and the new lives it offers to racehorses in polo.

With the American season in full swing with both the 22 goal Gauntlet of Polo and 26 goal World Polo League currently underway, we also report on The C.V. Whitney Cup, The WPL All-Star Challenge and The WPL Founders Cup, as well as The Ylvisaker Cup. Further afield, polo continues to flourish as evidenced by the report of The Dubai Gold Cup, which is played at Al Habtoor Polo Resort.

We hope you will agree our Knowledge pages continue to provide insightful tips on how to improve your game with: Chukka Wellness’ tips on speeding up recovery, Paul Stalker’s advice on peer influence and surrounding yourself with a positive group,z Rege Ludwig’s analysis of the six aspects of riding to improve your polo, whilst the Polodoc explains the potential benefits of IV infusions. We welcome a new contributor – Hayley Drakes – who is a Holistic Therapy Specialist and Clinical Hypnotherapist. Intriguingly, Hayley explains how to banish those start of season aches and pains, whilst maintaining your body for a successful season ahead – and all with just a tennis ball and a sock!

So, kick back, grab a cup of tea and the last hot cross bun and enjoy the latest issue of Polo Times! Why not gift a subscription to a friend or family member here?

As always, play safe

Nick Hine, Publisher

2025 Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz Dates

2025 will celebrate 40 years of The Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz

The organisers of the 2025 Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz – the most glamorous event on snow – have confirmed the dates for the next tournament as 24 – 26 January in the stunning Engadin Valley in St. Moritz. Established in 1985 by Reto Gaudenzi, this is the oldest snow polo tournament in the world and sees six teams compete each year for the chance to claim the prestigious trophy. 2025 will be the 40th anniversary of the event, tickets are already on sale at www.snowpolo-stmoritz.com and with sell out crowds each year, it is high time you got your hands on yours!

HPA Polo Assistant Vacancy

The Hurlingham Polo Association, the governing body for polo in the UK are looking for candidates for the role of Polo Assistant to support two new part-time roles in the HPA (Head of International and High Goal Polo as well as the Head of Development and Low Goal Polo). The role is part time (21 hours per week) with a salary of up to £15,500 plus a 10 percent pension contribution, located in Oxfordshire but with some flexibility for home working. The role will involve providing administrative support, including organising committee meetings, creating minutes and agendas, and managing data, in addition to fielding queries from clubs, Managers and players in the absence of the Heads of Polo. Some attendance at polo will be required. The closing date is 9am Tuesday 2 April, more information can be found on the HPA’s website at hpa-polo.co.uk

Photography courtesy of SPWC

The HPA is advertising for a Polo Assistant

Photograph courtesy of HPA

Photograph courtesy of Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz/ fotoswis s.com/giancarlo cattaneo

Polo Art to Racing Books Ghana’s 67th Independence Polo Tournament

Polo

moonlights as a non-fiction author under his pen name of Rupert Collens, which was news to us at Polo Times HQ! His latest book Frankie Dettori’s British Classic Winners has been released and is receiving accolades from across the literary world including a recent review by Ettie Neil-Gallacher, “This is a great record of Dettori’s many triumphs and a must for anyone with even a passing interest in the turf”.

Obituary

Derek Clitherow

On Thursday 22 February, Derek Clitherow sadly passed away. Derek joined Rhinefield Polo Club (now New Forest Polo Club) in 1976 and enjoyed many years of polo there, including roles of Chairman and Polo Manager as well as even umpiring from time to time.

Over 6 – 10 March, Morocco and Ghana competed in three matches to celebrate Ghana’s 67th Independence Polo Tournament at Accra Polo Club. The second game was accompanied by a vibrant garden party, attended by dignitaries and members of the diplomatic corps. Among the esteemed guests were the Deputy Ambassador of Morocco, Mr. Cherrab Abderahim, Consular Officer Mr. Jamal Eddine Ouargine, the British High Commissioner, Mrs. Harriet Thompson, Consular of Belgium, Mr. Dimitri Avram, and a multitude of other distinguished attendees. The games concluded on Sunday 10 March with the Friendship Cup ending in a draw.

The Ghana’s 67th Independence Polo Tournament Teams:

Morocco (2): Rashid Haddouche (1), Rayan Reskallah (1), Hicham Zine (0) & Mahmoud Moustafa (0)

Ghana (2): Suleman Sahnoon (2), Jamil Ibrahim (0), Damian Duncan (0) & Daniel Awuah Darko (0)

Derek also enjoyed membership at other British clubs including Tidworth, Ansty, and Taunton. He is survived by his wife Valerie and daughter Roxanne, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Obituary Roddy Graham 1958 – 2024

Thom Bell remembers Roddy Graham a dear friend, Roddy

Graham:

“On Thursday 22 February, the private funeral was held of Roddy Graham, a very kind and caring Scotsman who made his life in Yorkshire.

Roddy began as an assistant vet, going on to first become a partner and then practice owner. His very successful business was important but nothing compared to his family and his passion and care for his clients and their animals. As Roddy moved to semi-retirement, he realised his dream to play more polo with his Scottish friends and started his journey by going with them to what he knew to be ‘polo central’ – Argentina.

Roddy’s passing leaves a loving wife, June and his daughters

Beth, Sophie and Katrina. RIP a very kind man, Roddy Graham.”

art connoisseur, Rupert Mackeson,

Rupert Collen’s Frankie Dettori’s British Classic Winners

Photograph by Rupert Collens

Photograph by Benadada Rabii

Morocco & Ghana teams for The 67th Independence Polo Tournament

Photograph courtesy of HPA

Photograph courtesy of Thom Bell

Bellamar Pampa Norte comeback, but by the fifth and sixth chukkas, it was Lavinia who were controlling the action with Carlos María Ulloa and Manuel Giménez Villamil commanding the team from the back and combining well with their forwards, Ramon Cassino and Jack Whitman to secure Lavinia their first Thai Polo Cup title, 10½-4.

Letter of the month

The writer of letter of the month wins a bottle of British Polo Gin @britishpologin 18 years and over & UK addresses only

The Hipwood and Rocksavage, which have previously been Junior HPA tournaments, will now be merged into the Pony Club from this season onwards, while the Buckmaster section will be discontinued. The format of Hipwood and Rocksavage will remain unchanged, with three and four chukka matches on private grounds over 4 – 17 July, which will allow players to also compete in other Pony Club tournaments. Hipwood and Rocksavage players will be required to be members of both the HPA

Rocksavage & Hipwood Merged into Pony Club

Silver Medal!

and Pony Club; all Pony Club members less than 3 goals will play a flat rate of £50 for their HPA membership. Andrew Barlow, Chairman of the HPA Development and Coaching Committee, commented, “A vital HPA role is to promote grassroots polo and the development of young polo players. In combining the previous Junior HPA with Pony Club tournaments, this allows us to enhance our long-term objectives of promoting talent for the benefit of all players and the sport in the future. With generous

Last summer four Pony Club players were selected to play in The Youth Polo World Cup in Dubai and I was lucky to be chosen. The team consisted of myself, Mati Maldonado, Lulu Saunders and Millie Hunter.

We flew to Dubai at the end of February and spent a week at Al Habtoor Polo Resort which was an incredible experience. Our first time riding there was on the Tuesday evening which we thought were chukkas but turned out to be the first part of the tournament! That evening we played Habtoor and DPEC youth teams. We won 2-1

Polo Rider Cup 2022

financial support from Park Place this new partnership enables us to focus on our structured development pathway whilst wholeheartedly supporting and promoting Pony Club Polo”. For more information on Pony Club polo please contact Charles Whittington, or for Hipwood and Rocksavage specifically contact Jilly Emerson.

For the rest of the week we trained and played chukkas, tried out different horses and were able to select the ones we wanted to play in the Final on Friday.

The final was amazing. We drew 3-3 to Habtoor and 4-4 to DPEC. Unfortunately for us, Habtoor beat DPEC which put us in second place. Everyone played so well against some tough opposition, including Lucero Monteverde, along with the son of Sheikh Habtoor and the grandson of Sheikh Maktoum.

We would have loved to have won but we are so grateful for the opportunity PV International, Pony Club and Hertfordshire Polo

Q: Brigadier (Retd) Justin Stanhope-White is the new Chairman of Pony Club Polo, do you know what year The Pony Club was founded?

A: Turn to page 69 to check your answer.

@PoloTimes 10,739

hacked at the end of 2023 and we are still hoping to regain access, so thank you for your patience @polotimes 8,040 followers

Photography

Santiago Llavallol & Carlos María Ulloa

Photography by Matias Callejo

John Paul Clarkin Jo Youl

He might not have the brand recognition of All Black Ritchie McCaw or renowned New Zealand golfer Lydia Ko, but in a sport dominated by Argentines who grow up wielding mallets before they can walk, Cambridge (New Zealand) man John Paul Clarkin is the real deal. Rated at 7 goals, he is undisputedly New Zealand’s best polo player, and on 18 February this year he lined up once again for The 47th NZ Polo Open in Auckland.

Growing up in rural New Zealand, Waikato born John Paul (JP) like so many rural Kiwi kids, he did a bit of everything at Pony Club, from dressage and showjumping, to eventing and hunter trials. He had an exceptionally good jumping pony named Xanadu, whose aversion to coloured poles made showjumping a somewhat risky affair, but she had no problems with jumping cross country and round the ring, and this exposure to a variety of disciplines stood him in good stead when he first picked up a polo mallet age 10. He insists there was never any pressure on him to play from his polo-mad father Paul, and in fact for quite some time the young JP would participate in “maybe two tournaments a year if I was lucky”.

Attending Cambridge High School as a teen, John Paul was heavily involved in a variety of different sports, including rugby, basketball and volleyball. When I express surprise that he wasn’t earmarked for rowing given his lanky physique, he laughs and says that the closest he got was offering to hold the boats at the start line so he could ‘bludge’ a day off school. He did play rugby for the First XV, but he has a sneaking suspicion they only wanted him because lineout lifting had just become legal, and he was tall and skinny enough to hoist in the air.

Three decades later, a lifetime of travelling around the world, playing a multitude of ponies with varying temperaments, abilities, and game experience, has meant that John Paul is comfortable riding even the most difficult horses. He reiterates that his formative years riding in Pony Club activities have given him an excellent foundation for polo. “The best players are good horse people who have done something else before they played polo. The downfall of people coming into the game later in life is that it doesn’t matter how talented you are, the reality of it is if you can’t control your horse, you won’t get very far”.

You Can Take The Boy Out Of Cambridge…

Photograph

As if one elite athlete in the family weren’t enough, John Paul’s wife Nina is currently the top female player in the world and is rated at 4 goals in the men’s rankings and a heady 10 in the women’s rankings (recently dropping to 9 in Argentina). Last year Nina was the only woman rated at 10 goals among the top three polo-playing nations –the US, UK and Argentina – and JP is undeniably proud of her achievements.

John Paul is the first to admit that things can get a little stressful when he is contracted to play in one country, Nina in another, and somebody needs to be found to mind their three children, Elizabeth, Patrick and Florence, two of whom are at school. But both husband and wife are acutely aware of the fact that they are coming to the end of professional polo as a viable career option, and “the upside of it is that we share the same passion, and both want to go in the same direction.”

John Paul and Nina have played together several times over the years, and have taken the honours in The Savile Cup, The NZ Polo Open and most importantly for UK-born Nina, the coveted

Gold Cup – the first time a woman had been part of the winning team in this most prestigious of British tournaments.

JP tells me that he and Nina don’t tend to play together these days as it’s “easier on the relationship”. When I ask him if Nina takes any direction from him during the game he laughs. “It doesn’t always go that well. Apparently, I might not do it in the right way sometimes!”

JP has also recently begun playing with daughter Elizabeth in some low key 2 goal tournaments in England, and wryly quips that Elizabeth, who recently declared that she wants to play polo for a living, is great at listening to him on the field, just “not anywhere else”.

When asked which country he prefers playing in, John Paul is loathe to pick a favourite. “New Zealand is home for me and any time I can get here I enjoy, but I love the competition in the UK, you know you’re playing the best players on the best horses.” Argentina is different again, as there generally aren’t any patrons playing, just pros, so the games are super-fast and competitive. He confesses

that unlike most professional polo players, his Spanish is abysmal, not stretching much further than directives to grooms and the ability to order a beer.

While he’s permanently based in Cambridge, JP does like to travel to the South Island to play on occasion, and says he loves the relaxed environment and the friendly social scene down that way. He values the unique mix of older and younger players, and notes that the South seem to be producing a lot of talented youngsters.

The reprieve the South Island offers from the relentless pressure to win is also a major drawcard. (On that note, I am reminded of the time I watched a member of the dramatically pared-down England polo team hiding behind a food van and gulping down a burger in a flagrant violation of the low carb diet that he was required to follow, and it was a vivid reminder to me that being a professional sportsman isn’t always as fun as we think it is).

John Paul currently splits his time between his home base in Cambridge, and wife Nina’s family home, Foxcote, near Cheltenham, UK.

John Paul Clarkin

Photograph by NZ Polo Open

John Paul Clarkin (right) with his brother, Matt and mum, Chele

Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

JP playing for Twelve Oaks in the 2022 Cartier Queen’s Cup

Daughter Elizabeth attends Cotswold Pony Club while in the UK, and JP has seen firsthand how well-attended Pony Club Polo is in the UK, with up to 60 teams playing at the bigger tournaments.

Players can’t start until they are six, and in the interest of fairness, they are required to spend their first two years riding ‘fluffies’, the nickname for a bog-standard all-rounder pony under 13.2hh. JP adds that this rule can sometimes backfire spectacularly, as many kids find themselves riding ponies that are terrified of the mallet, have no intention of allowing their charges anywhere near a ball, and delight in bolting back to the pony lines the minute the umpire calls play. He also notes that despite the popularity of Pony Club Polo, and the equally popular University Polo, very few of these young players seem to go on to play as adults, which could be explained away by the expense of keeping ponies in the UK.

There seems to be a perception amongst the public that polo isn’t a real sport, and I ask John Paul what the average week at his Cambridge yard would look like, bearing in mind that when the season finishes in New Zealand, he’ll be off to the UK to do it all over again.

As it does the world over in polo, the working week begins on a Tuesday, where the horses are brought in and checked over for any injuries or missing shoes. Older horses are taken out on set (40 minutes of walking and jogging around a track), and green horses schooled or stick and balled. Wednesday and Thursday are chukka days, with Friday spent fine-tuning the horses before the weekend’s games, which might involve several chukkas if players are playing in more than one grade.

These days JP tries to minimise the number of ponies he rides during the week, as he has had a lot of trouble with his back, necessitating two separate surgeries. With horse and rider galloping, checking, and constantly changing direction, accidents in polo are fairly common, with crush injuries from mallets, misdirected balls and high-speed falls all par for the course. It is certainly not a sport for the faint hearted.

Tournaments can last several days, with the Mystery Creek Festival of Polo, which was held at JP and Nina’s home ground in New Zealand in early February, running over five full days, much of it in the driving rain. The polo fields also need to be kept in pristine condition, with the maintenance of the cooch grass surface shared between JP, his uncle Paul Hunt and part-owner David Fullerton.

Unlike many polo players in New Zealand, JP still regularly gets his horses off the track, as he dislikes the time it takes to breed his own ponies. He prefers to buy his young stock unraced, as they generally have a calmer temperament, and he has learnt from experience that some racing yards are better at raising yearlings than others, “There are certainly yards that you know from day one their horses are handled better, and just nicer horses.”

John Paul prefers the NZ Thoroughbred over the UK animal, as they are bigger boned than their British counterparts, which makes for better longevity and, fingers crossed, fewer injuries.

John Paul Clarkin

JP in action for Ojo Caliente in the 2023 Duke of Sutherland Final

Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

John Paul Clarkin

For better or worse, cloning has become more and more mainstream on the polo circuit over the last two decades. For those who are under the impression that cloning began and ended with Dolly the sheep back in 1996, cloning is now big business in the world of polo, with hundreds of ponies cloned every year. It began in 2010, with Argentine 10 goaler Adolfo Cambiaso cloning one of his favourite ponies, Aiken Cura, after an accident curtailed the stallion’s polo career. Argentines, in particular, have taken to the technology with gusto, and Cambiaso is now taking it a step further and looking into gene editing in his pursuit of the perfect horse.

The loss in genetic variability that will result from excessive cloning has concerned a number of people in the industry, and when I ask John Paul where he stands on this, he tends to agree. Would he consider cloning his best ponies? “I guess I would if I could, just for myself, to give me something to breed from” he muses, but he does express concern about what cloning will do to the worldwide gene pool. “The best horses can come from anywhere, it’s still a bit of a lottery. The worst thing about cloning is that there are going to be fewer horses that come from these random outside places”.

JP adds that Covid too has had ramifications for the polo breeding industry, with fewer horses being produced in New Zealand due to the fact that foreign players and grooms couldn’t get in to the country for two years. The pandemic also played havoc with the lives of sportspeople who needed to travel internationally, and that included NZ-based polo players who were forced to brave the dreaded lottery in order to return from England during the lockdowns.

When strict quarantine regulations were still in place here in 2021, John Paul spent a total of 28 days straight stuck in a tiny hotel room with just toddler Patrick and baby Florence for company, and I can tell you now, he was not okay. I still recall a selfie he sent us which bore a striking resemblance to Worzel Gummidge (look it up, young people), and my husband and I felt so sorry for him by day 15 of his incarceration that we had an emergency order of KFC delivered to his room.

JP was hoping to gift long-time supporters Tiger Polo with a last New Zealand Open win this year, but unfortunately it was not to be, with JP, Kit Brooks, Jay Wilson, and Liam Parrott losing a riveting Semi Final to eventual winners Brinks. Lawrence and Diane Boucher of Tiger Construction are bowing out of team sponsorship after ten successful years at the helm, and JP cannot emphasise enough how grateful he is for their years of support. When I ask him which NZ Open victory has meant the most, it’s a close tie between winning with Nina in 2019, and his hard-fought success in the mud with brother Matt in 2017.

John Paul has now held New Zealand’s most prestigious trophy aloft more times than any other player, with an impressive 11 wins to date, and he’s not done yet. Not too shabby for a country kid from Cambridge.

Photograph by NZ Polo Open

JP has 11 NZ Polo Open titles so far

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Thoroughbred Racing New Zealand

A new life in polo

Q: What is New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing’s (NZTR) role in the racing world?

A: NZTR serves as the governing body for Thoroughbred horse racing in New Zealand. Our primary objective is to regulate the sport, ensuring fairness, and safeguarding the welfare of the horses involved. We collaborate closely with racing clubs nationwide and are governed by a Board of Directors responsible for setting strategic direction and overseeing NZTR’s management.

Q: How has NZTR been working to improve equine welfare?

A: In 2019, NZTR introduced the Thoroughbred Welfare Assessment Guidelines, setting a standard for equine welfare within the industry. These guidelines have since been embraced globally, showcasing New Zealand’s leadership in this crucial aspect. To further demonstrate NZTR’s dedication to equine welfare, the 1% Fund was launched during the 2021–22 season. The 1% Fund is a Stakes Levy that is allocated towards developing and supporting new initiatives, including those that ensure we give our Thoroughbreds a happy and purposeful life after racing and support them in their second careers.

Q: One of your 1% Fund initiatives is Thoroughbreds in Polo, can you explain to Polo Times’ readers how this works?

A: Polo are significant supporters of New Zealand Thoroughbreds in their second careers. Thoroughbreds are the highest represented breed in the sport and are highly competitive on the polo field. Polo provides our industry with a viable option for Thoroughbreds in their second careers, especially those of smaller size. New Zealand Thoroughbreds are well regarded and sought after internationally and NZTR will continue to support polo as an avenue for Thoroughbreds in an athletic career after racing. NZTR partners with the NZ Polo Association (NZPA), recognising the vital role Thoroughbreds play in the world of polo after their racing careers, while also fostering connections between the racing and polo communities.

Q: How does NZTR translate its support for Thoroughbreds in Polo into practical action?

A: Across the 2023–24 season, NZTR will sponsor the Best Playing Thoroughbred Pony – at various polo tournaments nationally, including

branded rugs, gift bags, and cash prizes, totalling $50,000. The partnership sees NZPA actively promote and encourage entry of Thoroughbreds into the Thoroughbreds in Polo Series and provide NZTR with microchip and/or brand details of all registered Thoroughbred horses entered and their ownership – to support NZTR’s important traceability work.

Q: What other initiatives does NZTR undertake to support Thoroughbreds in their second careers?

A: Our Acknowledged Retrainers program, funded through the 1% Fund, provides assistance to professionals guiding racehorses through their transition to sport horses. The 1% allocation goes towards the Leg Up Grant which covers initial costs on arrival like farrier or dental work, admin support payments to help NZTR’s traceability, subsidising safety equipment, and branded apparel. There were 385 horses rehomed via the 13 NZTR Acknowledged Retrainers during the 2022–23

season. This was up on the 286 rehomed in 2021–22 and is forecasted to contribute $200,000 in funding in the 2023–24 racing season.

Furthermore, the Thoroughbreds in Equestrian Sport (TiES) program showcases the adaptability of Thoroughbreds in various equestrian disciplines. We also work alongside organisations like the NZ Show Horse Council to promote off-thetrack show horse series, further highlighting the versatility of Thoroughbreds beyond racing.

Q: Can you tell us more about the ‘Kick Up for Kiwis’ initiative?

A: ‘Kick Up for Kiwis’ is a collaborative effort between NZTR and Sustainable Action for Racing. It aims to provide industry participants with accurate information and statistics to counter negativity surrounding horse racing, particularly during significant events like the Melbourne Cup. By arming participants with facts, we hope to defend the sport’s social license and promote transparency within the industry.

Photography by Selena Wright

Shooter (Istidaad x Now Is The Hour), 2024 NZ Polo Open Best Playing Thoroughbred (High Goal), owned by Thomas Hunt and played by Paco O’Dwyer

“Polo showcases the versatility of New Zealand Thoroughbreds, and it’s wonderful to see our Thoroughbreds being valued in their second careers, out competing and living a purposeful life on the polo field, as the preferred mount for players.”

Justine Sclater, NZTR Head of Welfare & Sustainability

Two retrained New Zealand Thoroughbreds in action during the 2024 NZ Polo Open

The ‘bum sticker’ highlights all the off-the-track Thoroughbreds as part of NZTR’s partnership with NZPA

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BPP

The Arena Gold Cup Teams

Hedonism (15)

Evgeny Chichvarkin (2)

James Mann (5)

Jack Hyde (8)

The Arena Silver Cup Teams

Cibao La Pampa (15)

Josh Hyde (3)

Nico San Roman (6)

Adolfo Casabal (6)

Ojo Caliente (15)

Ana Escobedo (1)

Matias Amaya (7)

Mikey Henderson (7)

Glanusk Wales Polo (14)

Ricky Cooper (1)

Pete Webb (6)

Nacho Gonzalez (7)

MVP

On Saturday 24 February crowds gathered at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club’s arena to witness four teams do battle in The Arena Gold and Silver Cups. Last year’s Silver Cup finalsists, Ojo Caliente, upgraded for 2024 by reaching the prestigious Gold Cup Final where they faced 2023 runners-up Hedonism – who would lift the prestigious title this year? Both teams kept the spectators on the edge of their seats and took the score right down to the wire, but in the end it was Ana Escobedo’s Ojo Caliente who clinched the win, 24-21. Matias Amaya was selected as the Most Valuable Player and Lopez, owned and played by Matias Amaya, was named Best Playing Pony.

Earlier in the day, Cibao La Pampa and Glanusk Wales Polo went head-to-head in the Subsidiary Final for The Arena Silver Cup, which saw Cibao La Pampa take home the win, 31-25. To read about the Ladies British Open results, please turn to the Women’s Polo pages.

Lopez, owned and played by Matias Amaya

Matias Amaya

Glanusk Wales Polo in action during The Arena Silver Cup Final Cibao La Pampa, winners of The Arena Silver Cup

Defend Title A Father-Son Duel for C.V. Whitney Cup Glory

Originally known as The U.S. Handicap, the inaugural C.V. Whitney Cup unfolded in 1979 with a handicap format, coinciding with The U.S. Open Polo Championship. In 1988 the tournament was renamed in honour of C.V. (Cornelius Vanderbilt ‘Sonny’) Whitney. Sonny, an enthusiastic polo player, clinched victory three times in The U.S. Open (1928, 1937 and 1938) and was the son of the 10 goal Hall of Famer Harry Payne Whitney. C.V. Whitney’s legacy took centre stage as he personally presented The C.V. Whitney Cup in its inaugural years, marked by memorable ceremonies in Lexington, Kentucky, in 1988 and 1989.

“I just tried to go and play polo, do the best I can, work for everybody and make plays when I have the ball”

Jesse Bray

Having evolved over the years, The C.V. Whitney Cup now stands as an independent tournament and is the opening event in the Gauntlet of Polo series (C.V. Whitney Cup, USPA Gold Cup and U.S. Open Polo

Championship) at the National Polo Center in Wellington, Florida. The series has a total prize pot of $200,000 and the format incentivises teams to vie not only for individual tournament victories but also for the coveted Gauntlet Champion title, awarded to the team triumphant in all three tournaments – so far only one team, Pilot, has achieved this feat.

On Sunday 26 February, defending champions Valiente, faced newcomer La Dolfina in their debut high-goal season in the United States, with the familial subplot adding a layer of intrigue as Adolfo Cambiaso faced his son, Poroto (who was part of Valiente’s 2023 winning line-up), in a

Valiente’s Jesse Bray & La Dolfina’s Tomas Panelo race for the ball Photography by ©David Lominska

“You don’t know what he’s going to do because he can do anything”

Bob Jornayvaz

captivating clash that captured the essence of polo’s legacy.

Reflecting on the unique challenge of playing against his son, Adolfo Cambiaso commented, “The truth is that yes, it is very uncomfortable, but at the same time, being in the Final against them is a joy for the Valiente and La Dolfina organisations.” He continued, acknowledging the significance of La Dolfina’s presence in the Final, “That La Dolfina has a place in the Final is great. And it’s the first one they have played in the United States.” Bob Jornayvaz shared his views on Poroto as a threat to Valiente securing the win for the second consecutive year, “Poroto is playing unbelievably right now. You’ve got to focus on trying to shut him down sooner than later. Once he gets that one step, he’s gone. We’re fortunate to practice with him virtually every day – you don’t know what he’s going to do because he can do anything.”

Leading up to the Final, La Dolfina’s journey featured a dominant run, particularly in the Semi Finals against Coca-Cola, where the onetwo punch of Poroto and Panelo proved unstoppable, sealing a 13-6 win and earning them a spot in the Final.

Valiente’s path to the Final saw them face Park Place, with substitutes Joaquin ‘Pelo’ Vilgre La Madrid and Jesse Bray stepping in. The duo seamlessly integrated into the team’s strategy, with Bray contributing four goals in Valiente’s 11-10 Semi Final triumph. The chemistry displayed by the team underscored the adaptability within the Valiente team.

Jesse Bray, stepping into the Valiente line-up, reflected on his role and experience playing alongside Adolfo, “I just tried to go and play polo, do the best I can, work for everybody and make plays when I have the ball.” He emphasized Adolfo’s leadership, stating, “Adolfo figures out the rest. He said from the beginning ‘don’t look at me – just go play, do your thing, and do it with confidence.’”

Entering the championship match, the clash of titans continued as Poroto broke away in the first throw-in, swiftly putting La Dolfina on

The C.V. Whitney Cup

Most Valuable Player, Valiente’s Adolfo Cambiaso

the scoreboard. Valiente, however, demonstrated resilience, containing La Dolfina to just three conversions before half-time and relying on the offensive power of de Narvaez Jr. and Adolfo to establish a 6-4 advantage.

The ebb and flow of the match continued into the second half, with La Dolfina recalibrating and Evans opening the scoring for them. Valiente responded, with Adolfo levelling the score, setting the stage for a crucial fifth chukka where Panelo and Poroto propelled La Dolfina to tie the contest at 8-8. Bray’s timely goal temporarily halted La Dolfina’s surge, swinging the momentum back in Valiente’s favour.

In the pivotal sixth chukka, Panelo’s two field goals pulled La Dolfina ahead 10-9, marking the first time they had led in the match. However, Valiente, unwilling to concede, adjusted their strategy under the guidance of Adolfo, who showcased his strategic experience, Jornayvaz emphasised, “We changed things around, we had a strategy. We had a plan A, B and C, that’s just how Adolfo thinks.”

A hard-fought goal from Adolfo and a Penalty 3 from de Narvaez Jr. propelled Valiente back on top. Adolfo’s breakaway goal in the final seconds sealed Valiente’s 12-10 victory, their sixth C.V. Whitney Cup title (2012, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2023 and 2024) and simultaneously earning his ninth C.V. Whitney Cup.

The

Valiente (22)

Bob Jornayvaz (0)

Paco de Narvaez (5)

Jesse Bray (7)

Adolfo Cambiaso (10)

La Dolfina (22)

Dillon Bacon (2)

Quinn Evans (1)

Poroto Cambiaso (10)

Tomás Panelo (9)

Chukka scores: 1-1, 4-2, 6-4, 7-5, 9-8, 12-10 to Valiente

C.V. Whitney Cup Final Teams

Martín Pascual & Steve Dalton (Third man: Ronnie Hayes)

Best Polo Argentino Bred: Dolfina Jai, played by Adolfo Cambiaso

Cambiaso

Valiente (Adolfo Cambiaso, Peke Gonzalez, Paco de Narvaez Jr., Jesse Bray, Bob Jornayvaz), winners of the 2024 C.V. Whitney Cup

Habtoor Polo Secures Gold Cup

First Gold Cup Win in 12 Year

In an exciting showdown at The Gold Cup Final, Dubai Wolves by CAFU clashed with Habtoor Polo in a match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. The action-packed game kicked off with Dubai Wolves by CAFU taking

the lead, notching up the initial goal. However, the response from Habtoor Polo was swift, with Juan Juaretche levelling the scores in the first chukkas.

The game unfolded with both teams trading goals, showcasing teamwork and resilience. Notable

Where: Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Dubai

The match was hard fought throughout and went down to a golden goal

efforts from Habtoor Polo’s Benjamin Panelo and Santiago Laborde kept them in the game after each score. The second half saw a determined comeback from Habtoor, establishing a three-goal advantage. Despite Wolves, led by Benjamin Panelo, narrowing the gap with enough goals, Mohammed Al Habtoor’s line-up maintained a two-goal advantage by the start of the last chukka. Wolves, however, staged a comeback, and with only five minutes left in regulation time, Benjamin Panelo scored, sending the match into extra chukka. In a crucial moment that defined the match, José Araya of Habtoor Polo seized the ball and ran to the goalposts, securing the golden goal that sealed the victory for Habtoor Polo.

This victory held more significance as it marked Habtoor Polo’s first triumph The Dubai Gold Cup in 12 years, capping off their remarkable high-goal season within the 2024 Dubai Gold Cup Series. Led by Mohammed Al Habtoor, the foursome also claimed The Dubai Silver Cup.

Habtoor Polo, winners of the 2024 Dubai Gold Cup, celebrate their win with family and friends

Eyes on the prize

Photography by AHPC

Polo Times, April 2024

goals 32

Tournament Top Scorer: Benjamín Panelo

Peter Wright & Jason Dixon

MVP

José Araya

BPP

Argentine Polo Pony Breeders Assn.: Pire Pocahontas, played by José Araya

The Dubai Gold Cup Final Teams

BPP

Habtoor Polo (20)

Mohammed Al Habtoor (0)

José Araya (5)

Facundo Fernández Llorente (8)

Juan Jaureche (7)

Dubai Wolves By CAFU (20)

Benjamín Panelo (7)

Habtoor Al Habtoor (1)

Félix Esaín (6)

Santiago Laborde (6)

Chukka scores: 2-1, 4-3, 5-5, 9-7, 10-10, 11-10 to Habtoor Polo

Machitos Angie, played by Benjamín Panelo

On Sunday 17 March, U.S. Open champions, Park Place, sought their first World Polo League title but they faced La Irenita who not only featured two of the 2023 finalists (Gonzalito Pieres and Pablo MacDonough) in their line-up, but had also reached the Final after defeating the 2023 Founders Cup champions – Audi. After a weeklong rest for both teams, the stage was set for an exciting 26 goal Final.

Despite only being 23 goals out of a possible 26, Park Place’s line-up was formidable and especially so when combined with the two goal handicap lead which gave them an immediate boost

in the first chukka. Their defensive resilience and lightning-quick offensive manoeuvres from the throw-ins propelled them to a commanding 6-1 advantage by the end of the opening chukka.

Undeterred by the deficit, La Irenita launched a spirited comeback in the second chukka, narrowing the margin as they outscored Park Place 4-2. However, Park Place held firm, maintaining a threegoal cushion at 8-5.

The third chukka saw La Irenita’s hopes further dimmed as Hilario Ulloa of Park Place demonstrated his penalty prowess, leading his team

to another dominant performance and extending their lead to 12-6 by half-time.

Despite the relentless efforts of La Irenita, with Pieres and MacDonough shining at the penalty line in the fourth chukka, Park Place managed to maintain their advantage, entering the final chukka with a four-goal lead at 15-11.

However, La Irenita refused to concede defeat, mounting a spectacular resurgence in the sixth chukka. With three consecutive goals, they narrowed the gap to a single point at 15-14, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish.

Park Place

BPP BPP BPP

World Polo League BPP: Irenita Japonesa, owned and

In the closing moments of the game, amidst frantic action and heart-stopping plays, Park Place’s Ulloa seized a crucial opportunity, breaking away from the pack to score a decisive goal, securing a 16-14 victory for his team. As tensions ran high, a technical foul on La Irenita further solidified Park Place’s grip on the game, allowing them to maintain possession and control the clock until the final buzzer sounded.

As the dust settled on an electrifying encounter, the final statistics revealed a closely contested battle, highlighting the skill and tenacity of both teams. Park Place edged ahead in shots on goal and fouls, while La Irenita showcased their skill in knock-ins and throwins. Yet, in the end, it was Park Place who emerged victorious, Most Valuable Player Ulloa commented, “I’m very happy with this Park Place debut in the WPL, it’s the first time I’ve played 26 goals outside of Argentina with my brother and winning is incredible. We started very well in the first part of the game, but we knew La Irenita was going to come with everything, Pablo and Gonza are two first-level players and it was obvious how they were going to approach it”.

The WPL Founders Cup Final Teams

17 MAR FINAL 22 FEB

Park Place (23)

Andrey Borodin (0)

Toly Ulloa (8)

Hilario Ulloa (10)

Cody Ellis (5)

La Irenita (25)

Gilberto Sayao (0)

Tomacho Pieres (6)

Gonzalito Pieres (9)

Pablo MacDonough (10)

Where: Grand Champions Polo Club, Florida

Argentine Association BPP: Lavinia Inocencia, played by Hilario Ulloa

American Polo Horse Association BPP: Machitos Florencia, played by Gonzalito Pieres

played by Pablo MacDonough

“It’s the first time I’ve played 26 goals outside of Argentina with my brother and winning is incredible”

Hilario Ulloa

Hilario Ulloa

Photography by Candace Ferreira

MVP Hilario Ulloa rides of 2023 finalist, Pablo MacDonough

The Savile Cup is the oldest team sporting trophy in New Zealand, it was presented in 1980 by Major R.D. (then Captain) Savile to be played annually by polo clubs in New Zealand, the New Zealand Polo Association has managed the tournament since 1891.

This year The Savile Cup was played at Kihikihi Polo Club in the North Island with The Savile Cup played at 14 goals.

On Saturday 2 March, Mystery Creek won the fast-open match 8-3. They came out with a strong convincing lead in the first chukka. Rangitikei played with determination but Mystery Creek were too strong throughout the game.

The Savile Cup Final Teams

Mystery Creek (13)

Phillip Muller (0)

Zoe Reader (0)

Kit Brooks (6)

JP Clarkin (7)

Rangitikei (12)

Harriet McKelvie (0)

Mark Duncan (3)

Ross Ainsley (4)

Angus McKelvie (5)

Mystery Creek

Take Historic Title

Oldest trophy in New Zealand

Where: Kihikihi Polo Club, North Island

Paul Clarkin

Photography by Bodiam Photography Savile Cup winners, Mystery Creek

The Wilson Cup

(Presented to NZ Polo Association in 1976 by J.H.G. Wilson for intermediate competition)

Rangitikei (Nicole Jenkins, Harriet McKelvie, Mark Duncan & Angus McKelvie) beat Waimai (Fred Archer, Andrew Pugh, Ben Broughton & Matt Pitts) 10-8.

MVP – Harriet McKelvie

BPP – Angus McKelvie, Goobs

BPP Retrained Racehorse – Harriet McKelvie, Rob Champion String of Ponies for The Baden Jordan Trophy – Matt Pitts’s Beaver, Fly and Nono Fair Play Award – Mark Duncan

The Mackenzie Salver

The Riddiford and Levin Cup

(Presented by DHS Riddingford and M.C. & R.L. Levin for the junior competition)

Waimai (Kara Pugh, Jay Wilson, Hamish Ormond & Zac Keyte) beat Auckland (Martha Johnston, Lachie Johnston, Steve van den Brink & Lottie Lamacraft)

MVP – Zach Keyte

BPP Dick Black Trophy (Riddiford & Levin) – Lottie Lamacraft, Berocca

BPP Retrained Racehorse – Zach Keyte, Storm Fair Play Award – Hamish Ormond

(Presented by the Mackenzie family of Hawke’s Bay for the fourth grade of the Savile Cup)

Kihikihi (Ronnie Bird, Chloe Kay, Stephen Kay & Paul Kay) beat Hawkes Bay (Jacob McDonald, Hagen Thompson, Jared Thompson & Simon McDonald) 9-3.

MVP – Chloe Kay

BPP – Paul Kay, Citreen

BPP Retrained Racehorse – Ronnie Bird, Betty Fair Play Award – Paul Kay

Most Promising Player (Wood Trophy) – Jacob McDonald

Best Call (Sholto Matthews Cup) – Paul Kirkpatrick

Groom Award – Hannah O‘Donnell (Mark Duncan’s groom)

“Winning the Savile Cup, the oldest and most prestigious sporting trophy in the southern hemisphere, first played in 1890, is a real highlight for any polo player. Winning the New Zealand Open in the 6 goal two weeks before makes this trip to New Zealand a truly memorable one.”

Wilson Cup winners, Rangitikei

Riddiford and Levin Cup winners, Waimai

Philipp Muller

2024 Mackenzie Salver winners, Kihikihi

Most Promising Player Prince of Wales Cup winner, Zach Keyte

Life Membership winner, NZPA –Allan Browne

Audi Triumphs in WPL Opener

Jeta Castagnola shines as Audi overcomes Kaia Polo

In an exciting match that showcased both resilience and strategic power, Audi emerged victorious against Kaia Polo with a final score of 16-13 in the first Final of the 2024 World Polo League (WPL) series. The closely contested game took an exciting turn in the fifth chukka, ultimately breaking open to favour Audi, with Argentine 10 goaler Jeta Castagnola earning the title of Most Valuable Player for his contributions to Audi’s success.

The encounter started with Audi facing a challenging situation against the formidable 22 goal Kaia Polo, which saw them start with a four goal handicap advantage. Midway through the second chukka, Audi found themselves trailing 5-1. Undeterred by the deficit, Audi orchestrated a remarkable comeback, scoring four unanswered goals and levelling the score at 5-5. Roldan’s precise

chip shot, following Castagnola’s 145 yard attempt, tied the game at the 2:45 mark. Audi then seized the lead, reaching 7-6 with another Castagnola goal and extending it to 8-6 at half-time with Marc Ganzi’s goal off a volley.

Audi maintained their lead throughout the second half, successfully fending off Kaia Polo’s attempts to close the gap. Although Kaia Polo narrowed the margin to one goal in both the fourth (10-9) and fifth (12-11) chukkas, Audi held firm.

Entering the final chukka with a 14-12 advantage, they ultimately secured the victory.

Despite facing disruptions in the third and fourth chukkas due to penalties, Audi emphasised their commitment to the game plan and the importance of patience in overcoming challenges.

Nic Roldan commented, “It got a little sticky in the middle of the game, I think that might have been the

Where: Grand Champions Polo Club, Florida

WPL All-Star Challenge winners, Audi (Marc Ganzi, Nic Roldan,Jeta Castagnola & Pancho Bensadon)

“The whole team played really well. We’re happy.

I think the WPL is wide open”

Nic Roldan

plan they wanted. We kind of got caught up in it which is tough not to in a situation like that. We just said look, we have to stick to our game plan, have the patience and open up the game and the team pulled through.”

With this win, Audi now carries a target on their back in the WPL, but the team expressed confidence in their chemistry and readiness for the competitive season ahead, “Marc scored a couple of great goals at the end of the game, Jeta was a machine and Pancho was great. The whole team played really well. We’re happy. I think the WPL is wide open. There’s a lot of good teams. It will be interesting”.

In terms of scoring, Castagnola and Ganzi emerged as high scorers for Audi, each contributing six goals. Ganzi excelled in penalty conversions, securing four. Roldan added three goals, and Bensadon contributed one. For Kaia Polo, Toccalino led with eight goals, with Aguerre adding one. Audi dominated in various statistical categories, outshooting Kaia Polo 23-17, leading in knock-ins (8-7), throw-ins (15-10), and committing fewer fouls (14-12).

In conclusion, Audi’s impressive comeback and cohesive team performance set the tone for what promises to be an exciting WPL season which continues with The Founders Cup. Turn to page 31 for the action from this Final.

MVP

Audi (26)

Mas Salsa owned and played by Mariano Aguerre

Jeta Castagnola BPP BPP BPP

Marc Ganzi (1)

Nic Roldan (8)

Jeta Castagnola (10)

Pancho Bensadon (7)

American Polo Horse Association BPP: Catwoman, owned and played by Jeta Castagnola

Kaia Polo (22)

Larry Wilson (0)

Lerin Zubiaurre (7)

Mariano Aguerre (7)

Santi Toccalino (8)

Chukka scores: 1-0, 4-1, 7-2, 9-3 & 10-8 to Audi

Best Polo Argentino of the Final: Polera Famosa, owned and played by Santi Toccalino

The WPL All-Star Challenge Final Teams

Mariano Aguerre competes for the ball with Jeta Castagnola Photography by Candace Ferreira

The Ylvisaker Cup Final Teams

SD Farms/Old Hickory Bourbon (16)

Sayyu Dantata Jr. (1)

Peco Polledo (6)

Mariano Obregon (6)

Stevie Orthwein (3)

Benja Quiroga (2)

Gringo Colombres (8)

Lucas Diaz Alberdi (6)

Camp Campbell (2)

Held yearly in honour of William T. ‘Bill’ Ylvisaker, the 12 to 16 goal Ylvisaker Cup stands as the second stage in the qualification process for four national American competitions: The Joe Barry Memorial, Iglehart Cup, and Outback Cup. The culmination of these events leads to the NPC 16-Goal Championship in April.

The qualifying rounds unfold at various clubs across the country, where the victorious teams progress to the ultimate showdown.

If a team triumphs in multiple qualifiers, it secures an automatic spot in the NPC 16-Goal Championship Final on Sunday April 14 at National Polo Center.

In anticipation of the Final match, Clearwater convened on Saturday afternoon to craft a game plan, mapping out set plays and dissecting the strategies of their adversaries. Campbell shed light on their preparations, stating, “We watched film the night before to understand how we would defend in the set plays. Our plan was to stick to our game, support each other, and emphasise defence.”

Lucas Diaz Alberdi explained, “The strategy was not to alter the way we played in the previous games –we had a solid system and were performing well as a team. The only adjustment was that Benja was raised to 2 goals, so we began each game trailing by two. We discussed the importance of patience, especially if the first chukka didn’t go our way, knowing it’s a lengthy game.”

Despite SD Farms/Old Hickory Bourbon securing two goals on handicap, Clearwater promptly retaliated with a Penalty 3 and 4 conversion. SD Farms/Old Hickory Bourbon’s Peco Polledo responded with a Penalty 3 before Gringo Colombres notched Clearwater’s first field goal, levelling the score at 3-3 by the end of the first chukka. The score remained close for much of the first half, with tied scores at the end of both the first and second chukkas. In the third, three field goals from Clearwater propelled them into the lead at 8-7.

The fourth chukka saw SD Farms/Old Hickory Bourbon go scoreless, while Clearwater, led by Alberdi, secured three goals. Alberdi reflected, “We had a really good chukka, took advantage of breakaways, and were a bit lucky in recovering and scoring.” A field goal from Colombres and a Penalty 2 conversion from Camp Campbell solidified a six goal Clearwater lead. Campbell recounted, “In the fourth chukka, we were able to extend our lead to five. We came out very strong after half-time.”

In the fifth chukka, Colombres scored once more for Clearwater, while Polledo converted twice for SD Farms/Old Hickory Bourbon, securing his fourth and fifth penalty shots of the day. Heading into the sixth, Clearwater held a 14-9 advantage. Despite SD Farms/Old Hickory Bourbon, propelled by three goals from Obregon and another Penalty 2 from Polledo, narrowing the gap to one goal, it wasn’t enough. Campbell emphasised, “The key was not to foul in those final minutes.” Even with Polledo’s impressive six goals off penalty conversions, Clearwater maintained their lead, clinching victory at 14-13.

Most Valuable Player, Clearwater’s Lucas Diaz Alberdi battles SD Farms-Old Hickory Bourbon

Cesar ‘Peco’ Polledo for possession

Chukka scores: 3-3, 5-5, 8-7, 13-7, 14-9, 14-13 to Clearwater Clearwater (18)

BPP Fija Guinda, played by Lucas Diaz Alberdi

Martín Pascual & Horacio Onetto (Third man: Kimo Huddleston)

MVP

Clearwater now stands alongside Forbes Plunkett (Joe Barry Memorial winners) as the second team to qualify for the NPC 16-Goal Championship. Alberdi expressed their excitement, “It’s amazing to secure a spot in the Championship. We’ll prepare the horses well, aiming for a win and doing everything possible to be in top form. With each game played, we improve a little. Hopefully, our progress continues, and we have enough horses by season’s end!”

A Strategic Showdown in The Ylvisaker Cup Final

Lucas Diaz Alberdi

Photography by ©David Lominska

Clearwater, winners of The Ylvisaker Cup

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Ash Farm Polo Club

Congratulations to Rosina for winning The Paul Sweeney Memorial Trophy for the second year in a row on Sunday 18 February. The rain cleared out in the afternoon and spectators enjoyed three matches in the sunshine, including the Final.

The Paul Sweeney Memorial Trophy Final Teams: Rosina (4): Ola Kelly (0), William Newman (2) & Nell Jacob (2) Madeva (3): Nicola Davidson (1), Ali Otamendi (0) & Charlotte Sweeney (2)

Beaufort Polo Club

With the summer 2024 season just around the corner, the Club has announced diary dates including their Cocktail Party (18 May), LINC Charity Polo Day (31 May), Arthur Lucas VL Final & Smiths Polo Day (1 June), Hospitality Action Polo Day (2 June), Festival of Polo (8 – 9 June) and Beaufort Polo Ball (15 June). The Club has also recently opened their ticket sales for the 2024 Gloucestershire Festival of Polo; the two day polo extravaganza will be taking place on 8 – 9 June, get your tickets via at beaufortpoloclub.ticketsrv.co.uk/tickets/

Tedworth Park Polo Club

On Friday 1 – 3 March the Club held their first ever Instructional Tournament with six teams competing over three days in mini instructional matches. 18 instructional chukka regulars got a taste for a real tournament where they each got to take part in playing two timed and scored chukkas whilst receiving coaching, umpiring, and half time tactic talks from coaches Lolly and Andrew. The Club is looking to add these to their calendar alongside regular Instructional Chukkas over summer.

Valiente Polo Farm

On Tuesday 12 March, Hawaii Polo Life won The 34th Sieber Memorial at Valiente Polo Farm following their narrow 11-10 win against 90210/Bentley Estates. Mia Cambiaso, the sole returning player from the three-time defending champions Dundas, netted the decisive goal with only 11 seconds remaining to secure the victory. Tatu Gomez Romero earned the title of Most Valuable Player for his stellar performance, recording an impressive seven goals during the game. The mare Dolfina Atrapada, ridden by Zedda in the second and fifth chukkas and owned by La Dolfina/Valiente, was honoured as the Best Playing Pony. Reflecting on the match, John Sieber, Rob’s brother, who attends the tournament annually to witness the action and present awards, commented, “It was fun watching Mia score. A fun fact for the tournament is one of the greatest players ever in polo is not on that trophy. His son is on there once and now his daughter is on there twice. It was a woman’s day. Hopefully, that’s a metaphor for where women’s polo is going.”

The 34th Sieber Memorial Final Teams:

Hawaii Polo Life (12): Mia Cambiaso (2), Facundo Frayssinet (2), Agustin Nero (5) & Tatu Gomez Romero (3)

90210/Bentley Estates (12): Sarah Siegel-Magness (0)/Joaquin Vilgre (0), Roberto Zedda (4), Juan Cruz Marcos (3) & Geronimo Obregon (5)

Rosina, winners of The Paul Sweeney Memorial Trophy Photograph courtesy of AFPC

Photograph by TPPC

Instructional Tournament participants in the sun

Photograph by Candace Ferreira

Hawaii Polo Life, winners of The 34th Sieber Memorial

Grand Champions Polo Club

On Saturday 17 February, 90210/Bentley

Estates led from the start to win The Limited Edition 12-Goal Series with a 12-9 victory over Quite on Z in the Final. 90210/Bentley

Estates’ Geronimo Obregon scored eight goals including two penalty conversions and was named Most Valuable Player and Dolfina Azucarada, played by Roberto Zedda and owned by La Dolfina/Valiente, was Best Playing Pony.

Amaro dominated the 8 goal Final from the first throw-in and were leading by 7 goals to 2 by half-time. Despite a determined comeback by Victory Polo in the second half to close the gap, Amaro’s early lead was too much to overcome and they took the title, 11-9. Kris Kampsen, who has held a 6 goal handicap for the past 22 years, was named Most Valuable Player and Los Machitos Thelma, played by Nick Manifold, was the Best Playing Pony.

90210/Bentley Estates, winners of The Limited Edition 12-Goal Series

The Limited Edition 12-Goal Series Final Teams:

90210/Bentley Estates (12): Cable Magness (1), Roberto Zedda (4), Facundo Frayssinet (2) & Geronimo Obregon (5)

Quite on Z (12): Alecia Seidler (0), Artemio Figueras (1), Keko Magrini (6) & Hilario Figeruas (5)

Al Habtoor Polo Resort

Bhansali clinched victory at The Dubai Challenge Cup, the third leg of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series, after defeating El Basha on Wednesday 13 March at Al Habtoor Polo Resort in Dubai,

Amaro, winners of The Top Pony 8 Goal Final

The Top Pony 8 Goal Final Teams:

Amaro (8): Scott Sorbaro (0), Nick Manifold (2), Kris Kampsen (6) & Michael Armour (0)

Victory Polo (8): Tiffany Armstrong (0), Kevin Schmeits (0)/Vinny Sangaline (1), Leo Mandelbaum (2) & Tommy Collingwood (5)

United Arab Emirates. The initial stages of the game were marked by intense action, with both teams displaying determination to score while maintaining solid defensive strategies. Gonzalo Santamarina of Bhansali Polo showcased remarkable skill, consistently contributing to his team’s score and establishing early stability with support from his teammates. On the other side, Tomás Iriarte of El Basha Polo ensured their team fought back. The match remained fiercely contested with a narrow score margin, ultimately resulting in Bhansali Polo’s victory with a score of 6½ goals to 5. Bhansali’s Manuel Pérez was chosen as Most Valuable Player and Azul, played by Santamarina, was chosen as Best Playing Pony. A full report will follow in the next issue of Polo Times, click here to renew your subscription.

The Dubai Challenge Cup Final Teams:

Bhansali (9): Rishi Bhansali (0), Manuel Perez (2), Gonzalo Santamarina (5) & Ariel Ponzi (2)

El Basha Polo (10): Hani Jabshe (-1), Justo Cuitiño (3), Tomás Iriarte (4) & Juan Cruz Guevara (4)

Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly

The grass is greening and fields are being readied for the upcoming 2024 season in Chantilly. A warmup tournament begins on 6 April, followed by top-level competitions starting on 10 May. The Polo Nations Cup runs from 13 to 23 June and will see teams from various regions, including Occitanie, Hamburg, and Belgium participate with more expected to join. The French Opens for men and women will take place from 4 to 22 September, attracting fifteen teams and promise high-level competition. The women’s category is also expected to be competitive, drawing from talents seen at the Argentine Open last December. On 7 August, following the Olympic equestrian events, there’s a special match between France and the USA to commemorate the 1924 Olympic Polo Tournament’s opening match. This event, presented by U.S. Polo Assn., will showcase top players from both countries and will be broadcast on ESPN platforms.

Throughout the season, starting from 6 April, the Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly will be open to the public, offering an opportunity to discover the captivating world of Olympic equestrian sport.

Photography by Candace Ferreira

Photograph by AHPC

Action from The Dubai Challenge Cup Final

Photograph by Justine Jacquemot

The Polo Nations Cup will commence on 13 June

Krenkerup Polo

The Club opens its doors for another season on 1 May, but preparations are already underway for the upcoming season. While the ponies have been enjoying a much-deserved break, they will be returning to work at the end of the month and the polo field is undergoing annual pH levels and nutrient contents. To find out more about the Club you can read all about it in our Club Spotlight in the March issue of Polo Times.

Ghantoot Horse Racing and Polo Club

Ghantoot Horse Racing and Polo Club celebrated the Moroccans of the World Polo team, which is currently visiting the country at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Falah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the Club; Ghantoot previously participated in the Mohammed VI International Polo Championship last year.

Ghantoot (Youssef Bin Dasmal, Khaled Bin Dari, Muhammad Bin Dari & Nasser Al Shamsi) succeeded in defeating the Moroccans of the World (Karim Drif, Hicham Zine, Mohamed Hachhach & Lias Benmergui) with a score of 6-2½ in the exhibition match which was played as part of a wider festival.

Port Mayaca Polo Club

On Saturday 24 February, The Stephen Orthwein Memorial Cup concluded at Port Mayaca Polo Club. The 10-12 goal Final was played between Beverly Polo and Faraway Polo, both teams had met earlier in the tournament and Faraway beat Beverly 10-8, so there were scores to settle on Final Day. Beverly was able to secure an early lead in the first with three unanswered goals, but went scoreless in the second chukka while Faraway’s Julian Daniels worked to close the gap. Lucio Ocampo scored another goal just

before the end of the first half to take Beverly back in front, 4-3. Beverly changed their tactics in the second half which helped them to break away, creating more offensive opportunities on goal and Tolito Ocampo scored three goals in the fifth chukka, Julian Daniels converted a penalty for Faraway Polo but Tolito scored the last goal of the match to secure the win, 10-5. Most Valuable Player was awarded to Tolito Ocampo, who scored a combined six goals, Best Playing Pony honours were presented to American Dream (Street Sense x Colour Party),

Sarasota Polo Club

An undefeated Barefield seized control from the initial throw-in, outperforming Whiskey Pond in The National Copper Cup. They aggressively extended their advantage in the fifth chukka, securing an impressive eight point lead and ultimately triumphing over Whiskey Pond with a 15-7 victory to clinch the title. MVP honours went to Nachi Viana, while the title of Best Playing Pony was awarded to Kournikova, played and owned by Viana.

a seven-year-old mare played by Julian Daniels in the second chukka and owned by Bo and Hutton Goodman.

Guards Polo Club

The Guards Polo Club Charity Dog Show returns on Sunday 26 May from 11am to 1pm. Proceeds from the event will support Dogs for Good - UK, an organisation dedicated to making life-changing differences for people with disabilities through expertly trained dogs. Classes on the day will include agility, fancy dress, gun dog, and best rescue dog. The event welcomes nonmembers, but attendees will require a flyer for entry. To obtain a flyer or pay the £5 entry fee for a class, individuals can contact the events team via email here (events@guardspoloclub.com) or by calling the office at 01784 221 096. Additionally, there will be a raffle and auction on the day to further support Dogs For Good UK. Those interested in contributing prizes to aid fundraising efforts are encouraged to inform the events team.

Preparations are underway at Krenkerup Polo

Photograph by KP

Photograph by Benadada Rabii

Ghantoot, winners of the exhibition match vs the Moroccans of the World team

Photograph by ©Eric Nalpas

Stephen Orthwein Memorial Cup winners, Beverly Polo (Elizabeth Keys, Lucio Fernandez Ocampo, Jorge ‘Tolito’ Fernandez Ocampo Jr. & Wil Ballhaus)

Photograph by ©David Lominska

Barefield, winners of The Copper Cup (Nachi Viana, Roman Vasco Iriarte Sr., Diego Joaquin Arguello & Mark Mulligan

The Guards Polo Club Charity Dog Show includes classes such as fancy dress

Photograph courtesy of Guards Polo Club

World class facilities with a focus on grassroots polo

Although Beaufort Polo Club is just 30 years old in its current form, its roots date back to 1872, making it one of the oldest polo clubs in the country. Since 1977 the Club has been revived by the Tomlinson family with the main objectives of providing world class polo facilities for both players and spectators as well as encouraging young players to learn and improve their game. Over the past 47 years the Club has produced many grassroots British players who have gone on to play across the world and represent England.

Polo Manager: Mark Tomlinson (polomanager@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk)

Polo School and Pony Hire: Mhairi Gould Polo School Manager (coaching@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk)

What year was the Club founded?

Beaufort Polo Club in Gloucestershire, though in its present form only 30 years old, is really a revival of a Hunt Polo Club which must have been one of the first if not the first, of the country polo clubs. The old Club was inaugurated in 1872 by Colonel Frank Henry, who had just returned from the ninth Lancers, which was the regiment responsible for bringing the sport of polo to England, and had, just three years previously played the historic polo match against the 10th Royal Hussars.

The Clubhouse was designed by the late Peter Falconer Photography by Joss Ridley

The present Club was formed during the Winter of 1928 – 1929 by a few Members of the Beaufort Hunt under the presidency of the Duke of Beaufort. An ideal site was found in the Big Field at Norton, between Malmesbury and Hullavington on the Pinkney Estate.

The outbreak of the Second World War signalled the end to polo in England, with Beaufort, like many other clubs, not reopening after hostilities ceased. It was not until 1977, when new blood arrived in the form of the Tomlinsons that polo once again restarted at the Club.

Simon and Claire Tomlinson revived The Beaufort Polo Club in 1989 with two main objectives: to encourage young players to learn and improve their game; and to provide

Clubhouse Built in 1995, the Clubhouse was designed by the late Peter Falconer who also remodelled Highgrove and was opened by our Patron HRH The Prince of Wales on 13th May. The Clubhouse has comfortable changing rooms and a bar area where players and Members can relax

Pony Hire (+ number of ponies available)

Yes

Wooden Horse Not at the moment

Coaches/Instructors

Mhairi Gould runs our Polo School. Riding and polo tuition from Hurlingham Polo Association Approved coaches is available throughout the year for anyone wanting to learn or improve their skills

Livery Full and DIY Livery

Exercise Track TopRide Equestrian Surface Canter Track

Indoor School Yes

Stables to Hire Yes

Turn out Fields Yes

Arena Equus Design & Build Outdoor Arena

Size of Arena (in metres) 90m x 45m

Grooms’ Accommodation Yes

Number of Grounds The Club has six boarded polo grounds and a number of stick and ball areas

first class polo facilities for players and spectators alike.

The Beaufort Polo Club is known now as a small friendly Polo Club set alongside the Westonbirt Arboretum in one of the most beautiful parts of England. The serenity and tranquillity of the surrounding Cotswold countryside are in complete contrast to the speed and energy of the sport of polo.

What is the Club looking forward to for 2024?

The Gloucestershire Festival of Polo (this year on 8th – 9th June) is always a highlight, not only for us but also for the local community. The fact we see so many people who are not necessarily ‘Polo-savvy’ illustrates just how much there is on offer for those that attend. We always get such good feedback

from the weekend, whether it be our traders, sponsors or general public, and it means a lot to the team at Beaufort Polo Club to be able to put on such a popular event.

What are recent Club imporvements?

We are lucky to have an outdoor arena so can play polo all year round. The Club is home to over 150 horses in the summer and around 25 grooms live on site, so as you can imagine there is a great deal of maintenance work to keep on top of. Nearly every winter there is usually a pretty major job which needs carrying out, either a repair to a barn roof or a new kitchen for one of our staff flats! There are then the polo pitches themselves of course – as I write this we are currently taking advantage of a weather window and carrying out shockwave on some of the fields – this helps enormously to relieve the compaction the pitches generate over time and is a very important part of the maintenance.

What are the Club’s plans for the future?

Nothing too exciting or specific for now, having recently put in an outdoor arena, but generally it is an ongoing challenge for us to keep a high standard and we strive to maintain a really good facility for all those who are based at or visit the Club, whether they are of the two or four legged variety!

Club alumni you would like to spotlight?

We pride ourselves on producing quality young players and there is a long list of professional players, both past and present, who played their early years here. Robbie Slatter, who has just left school, is our latest ‘top-talent’. A Beaufort boy through and through who lives locally, and at 2 goals he is already on his way to being a great player.

What social occasions does the Club provide?

Every year we host The Gloucestershire Festival of Polo, this year it will be taking place on the 8th & 9th June. We also have our Cocktail party on 18 May to look forward too and then our Polo Ball on 15 June –our Ball alternates on an annual basis with Cirencester Park Polo Club and we feel this creates a really good balance, enabling supporters and Members of both clubs to attend.

Does the Club specialise in a certain area of polo?

Youth is a big focus, in fact one of the reasons Claire and Simon set the Club up back in the 80s was because they had three kids who loved polo! We have a number of local schools and universities who train at our Polo School and the Beaufort Pony Club teams always enjoy great success at the

various tournaments in the summer. Our U15 Javier Novillo at The Gloucestershire Festival of Polo is now a real highlight for players throughout the country and it is particularly great to see some foreign players involved with that event. Even our weekly chukkas are hugely beneficial to those younger players and we do try to encourage them, while guiding them up the levels.

Raising money for charity is another priority for us at the Club and over the last 10 years we have raised on average £250k per year for some really worthwhile causes, both local and nationwide. It is very satisfying to see several of our charities returning year after year and it just goes to show how beneficial a ‘Polo Day’ can be for a charity wanting to raise funds, Hospitality Action for example have been coming to us now for some 15 years and we are very appreciative of the loyalty shown by them as a charity.

The Club has six boarded polo grounds and a number of stick and ball areas

Set alongside the Westonbirt Arboretum, the Club is located in one of the most beautiful parts of England

Equus are equestrian construction specialists who offer a bespoke, full service solution. Our team has over two decades of experience in equestrian design and build, completing small and large projects in the UK and internationally. Equus are the creators of the world’s finest equestrian facilities including bespoke indoor and outdoor arenas, gallops, stable yards, barns, horse walkers and lunge pens.

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THE NEW BEAUFORT POLO CLUB ARENA

As the 2023/24 arena season comes to a close, SUPA has confirmed their 2024 Summer Term fixtures: Junior Schools National Summer Championships at Oxford Polo on 19 May

Universities National Summer Championships at Offchurch Bury on 6 – 7 June

Senior Schools National Summer Championships at Kirtlington Park Polo Club on 15 June

Entry date cutoffs are listed on their website and often close early, so don’t miss out.

Valentine’s Tournament SUPA Summer Term Fixtures New Chairman of Pony Club Polo

On Thursday 15 February, 11 Pony Club teams gathered to take part in the half term madness of Pony Club Polo fun at Tedworth Park Polo Club. The Area 14 Pony Club tournament was aptly named The Valentine’s Tournament! Players and parents were blessed with sunshine for the day and the tournament ended up being a rivalry between the two local pony clubs, the RA and the HH. These two Pony Clubs made up the teams in each Division, from Jorrocks and JOPPS to Loriner. It was great to watch the older kids cheering on the smaller kids in their Jorrocks matches, and how supportive the Pony Club players were of all the teams. All the teams played incredibly well, but the HH had a particularly successful day, winning all but one of the Sections. A special mention must go to seven-year-old Oliver Floyd in the RA Jorrocks team who scored his first ever 15 yard penalty! It was also wonderful to watch Mila Henderson expertly guide her team of newcomers Harry and Athony Cheong to victory in the JOPPS Section. The quality of polo across the Surtees and Loriner Section was of extremely high standard, and umpire Lolly Stanhope-White remarked on how free-flowing and well-paced the games were as well as a “Big thank you to the PC volunteers Bev and Jane, and to Bethan Hitchman for organising another fantastic PC Tournament. Big thank you must also go to the team at Tedworth Park Polo Club for hosting, and to Justin Stanhope-White who is the Polo Director at Tedworth as well as the newly named Chairman of Pony Club Polo”.

Congratulations to Brigadier (Retd) Justin Stanhope-White who has been recently confirmed as the new Chairman of Pony Club Polo. Justin, who is also the Polo Director at Tedworth Park Polo Club, will be taking over from Charles Whittington who stepped down after many years at the helm.

JOPPS – HH Red

HX – HH

Surtees 2 – RA

Surtees 1 / Loriner – HH

Brigadier (Retd) Justin Stanhope-White has been confirmed as the new Chairman of Pony Club Polo

Photograph by Michael Berkeley

The Valentine’s Tournament Results: Jorrocks – HH

Jorrocks winners, HH

Photography by Bex Hathaway-White/ HW Photography

The classic Pony Club kick from Archie Hathaway-White playing for the RA JOPPS team Jorrocks players, Oliver Floyd and Flora Darwin

JOPPS player Lucas Wilson-Smith on the ball Surtees & Loriner teams

Two Arenas, 64 Chukkas & 38 Teams

Sunday 3 March saw 38 school teams gather with great excitement and anticipation at Rugby Polo Club for The SUPA National Schools Arena Championships, which included three teams who travelled all the way from Scotland to take part.

The SUPA National Championships are now proving so successful that it was the second time SUPA have had to close entries early when capacity was reached before the published close of entry date .

An early start at 10am was needed to allow for the 64 chukkas to be played spread over two arenas.

The steady growth over the past few years has been remarkable with pupils from over 30 different schools represented. One contributing factor to this growth is the flexibility provided by SUPA, allowing individual players to enter and then organising them into combined teams based on their skill level. This approach is a departure from the past when it was mandatory for schools to enter complete teams.

SUPA are gradually growing and adjusting to offer all young players the opportunity to experience competitive fun polo and benefit from the greater polo community. SUPA’s not just about polo; it’s about creating a community of young polo enthusiasts who want to take part in competitive polo with their peer groups.

Always well supported by family and friends the event had an impressive, fun atmosphere. All players stayed for the prizegiving at the end of the day when every player receives a prize. The 2024 arena prizes were customised SUPA riding socks and a Polo Times magazine. The top three places of each of the eight Divisions also received medallions. The Open winners were the Stowe A team, who received fleece gilets. Most Promising Player was given to Luca Nutella from Stowe

who also received a pair of leather knee pads from The Worshipful Company of Saddlers.

These days could not be arranged and produce such great results without the tireless energy and time given freely by the volunteer SUPA committee, especially Caroline.

Thank you to our partners and sponsors for their continued support, Polo Times, RJ Polo, The Worshipful Company of Saddlers and Black Hound Sports.

The SUPA National Schools Arena

Championships:

Beginners A

1st – Radley/Shrewsbury

2nd – Bryanston B

3rd – GWC’s Ace’s

Novice Blue

1st – Shrewsbury 2

2nd – Rugby B

3rd – Stowe combined

4th – SUPA stars

Novice Red 1

1st – Cambridge & Newmarket

2nd – Radley B

3rd – Minninnooka

Novice Red 2

1st – Shrewsbury 1

2nd – Stowe D

3rd – Bryanston

Novice Ladies

1st – St Marys Ascot

2nd – Heathfield Sapphires

3rd – Cambridge

4th – Kings High

5th – Heathfield Emeralds

Intermediates Green

1st – Marlborough

2nd – Cheltenham C

3rd – Stowe C

4th – Sherbourne combined

Intermediates Yellow

1st – Cheltenham B

2nd – Felsted

3rd – Sherbourne

4th – Winchester college

Intermediates Purple

1st – Radley A

2nd – Stowe B

3rd – Monkton

4th – Harrow B

Open

1st – Stowe A

2nd – La Mariposa

3rd – Harrow A

4th – Cheltenham A

5th – Rugby A

Gill Glimmerveen reports

Photography by Kerry Bates Photography

Parents & friends supported the competitors

Open winners, Stowe A

Stowe A in action against Harrow A

Heathfield School

After-school polo in a central polo location

Heathfield School is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11 to 18 years old. Ideally located within the beating heart of the Windsor/Berkshire polo hub, polo has been offered to their pupils for over 15 years as an after-school activity.

How can pupils play polo at Heathfield?

Polo is offered as an after-school activity to

all riders attending Heathfield. In addition, the school actively encourages pupils to take part in a variety of equestrian disciplines. However, due to Heathfield’s central location to some of the UK’s top polo academies and coaches we have excelled in polo. Heathfield offers three polo lessons a week for all standards, including beginners, novice and intermediate players, learning from the best coaches.

How long have pupils been playing polo at Heathfield?

Polo has been offered to Heathfield pupils for over 15 years. Many polo families had daughters at the school and wanted to give them the opportunity to play regularly when boarding. Now a day and boarding school Heathfield continues to have professional players’ children attending, as well as many enthusiasts new to the sport. Heathfield is in the enviable position of being able to encourage and facilitate all keen young equestrians, regardless of their discipline, to attend regular training and coaching sessions. We have a dedicated equestrian coordinator to arrange lessons and entries to tournaments and events. Riders are actively encouraged to enjoy polo at all levels and take parents and players to The Cartier Queen’s Cup at Guards during the summer.

Where do your pupils train?

Heathfield is based near Ascot Racecourse and has many polo grounds and academies in the area to choose from. We take all our lessons with HPA registered coaches at Cool Hooves Polo Academy, at the Royal County

Photography courtesy of Heathfield School

Heathfield School players in action

Paul Sweeney Memorial Final Teams:

Twelve Oaks (4)

Tatty Wooldridge (0)

Georgia Sweeney (1)

Rosina (4)

Ola Kelly (0)

Will Newman (2)

Charlie Wooldridge (3)

Charlie Simpson (2)

Chukka Score: 3-2, 5-5, 11-11, 14-13, to Twelve Oaks

Where: Ash Farm

Polo Club, Surrey

“I started watching polo at Guards, and I never imagined I would have the opportunity to play such an exciting sport. I joined lessons with other girls from my year group who recommended it to me, and since I was already a rider, I decided to give it a try. I pursued it because I enjoyed the camaraderie of a team sport and thrived on the adrenaline created during the end-of-lesson chukkas. I really enjoy taking part in the SUPA National Tournaments and playing against other local schools, including Eton.”

Alexa Form IV

“I started Heathfield in Form III because my father had seen in the prospectus that polo was offered as an activity. When I began in the group lessons, I was worried that all the other players would be better than me, but I quickly settled into a Novice group where we were all learning at the same pace with Miles at Cool Hooves. I was quickly bitten by the polo bug and now I really look forward to my weekly lessons as a highlight of my week. I hope to keep playing and improving with the dream of one day owning my own ponies.”

MVP

Georgia Sweeney

BPP

Jubilee, owned and played by Will Newman

Liana Form IV

Paul Sweeney Memorial

of Berkshire Polo Club. This allows us to play all year round as we move into the arena in September, returning to the grass in April.

What success has Heathfield School had over the years?

Heathfield takes players to all of the SUPA (Schools and Universities Polo Association) National Tournaments and we were the Girls Open National Champions for several years in a row. We have had success in all divisions at these events from Beginners to Open. Most recently Heathfield Sapphires were placed second and Heathfield Emeralds placed fifth at The SUPA Senior and Ladies School National Arena Championships held at Rugby Polo Club in March.

Have any players continued playing after school?

Kiki Severn was one of our most successful players. Kiki came to Heathfield as an established player and during her time here played in the Young England polo team. We also have an alumni member currently playing at Auckland Polo club in New Zealand; Tori started polo for the first time when she joined Heathfield. The majority of the Heathfield players start polo for the first time with us.

Twelve Oaks,

Polo is offered as an after-school activity to all riders attending Heathfield

winners of The Paul Sweeney Memorial

The Ladies British Open

No Dramas Racing who secured the last win of RCBPC’s 2024 arena season, The Ladies British Open in a close and exciting match against Angels Polo Team with a final score of 1817. No Dramas Racing’s Kirstie Otamendi was presented with the Most Valuable Player award and Fern, owned and played by Nell Jacob, was the Best Playing Pony.

The Ladies British Open Final Teams:

No Dramas Racing (6): Georgia Sweeney (2), Kirstie Otamendi (2) & Charlotte Sweeney (2) Angels Polo Team (6): Genevieve Meadows (2), Saskia Meadows (2) & Nell Jacob (2)

The Sarasota Women’s Challenge

Sarasota Polo Club, Florida, USA hosted their annual Women’s Challenge which culminated on Sunday 3 March with three Finals. The 14-16 goal Women’s Challenge A Flight Final saw Jet Set Polo Visas and Bearsden/Sullivan Group put on a great show for the pink tailgate theme, with Jet Set Polo Visas securing the title win. Maddie Grant, who captained the winning side, was chosen as Most Valuable Player. Meanwhile in the 8-10 goal B Flight Final, Kline Immigration held off Landhope to take the win, with Abby Grant named Most Valuable Player and Shoelace, owned and played by Summer Kneece, selected as the Best Playing Pony.

The C Flight Final was won by Sarasota Polo School following their win over Resolute Polo; Kerstie Allen received the Most Valuable Player award and Flor, owned by Vincent Ricaud and played by Camille Ricaud, was the Best Playing Pony. The D Flight Final was the most-attended game of the entire Women’s Challenge and was designed to welcome new players to the sport. Barefield defeated Abraham Defense in the Final to take the win, with Jayda Link named

No Dramas Racing, winners of The Ladies British Open Best Playing Pony, Fern, owned and played by Nell Jacob

Sisters, Georgia and Charlotte Sweeney, celebrate their win

Photography by Abi Hancock/The Art of Polo

Photography by Julio Aguilar

as Most Valuable Player and Penguin, owned by SPC and played by Emma Uihlein, chosen as the Best Playing Pony. Pink tailgate theme

Jet Set Polo Visas, winners of The Sarasota Women’s Challenge Final Sarasota Women’s Challenge C Flight winners, Sarasota Polo School

Sarasota Women’s Challenge B Flight winners, Kline Immigration Sarasota Women’s Challenge D Flight winners, Barefield

The Queen’s Cup Pink Polo

The Queen’s Cup Pink Polo has been played every year for over 15 years and is a charitable women’s polo event dedicated to supporting breast cancer initiatives, concluded at the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club in Pattaya on Saturday 17 February. The day’s action on the field saw Thai Polo Pink and Jamjar team from Malaysia go head-to-head, which saw the home side Thai Polo Pink narrowly secure the win 5-4½.

Nunthinee Tanner, one of the organiser of the tournament commented, “Pink Polo is a charitable women’s polo event aimed at raising funds for breast cancer initiatives. Our goal is to support the Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer Foundation, which aims to effectively help patients and combat breast cancer through prevention, treatment, and care. As a woman, I invite all women to join forces to contribute to

society by supporting and promoting charitable initiatives like Pink Polo, which features all-female polo players, and by promoting polo in Thailand to a new generation of women, enabling them to compete internationally. It’s another significant event for a creative and valuable society, which has always been well received.”

Alongside the polo, spectators enjoyed show jumping, a fashion show on horse back, violin performances from the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra and Best Dressed Awards and Best Hat Awards.

The Queen’s Cup Pink Polo Teams:

Thai Polo Pink: Caroline Link, Jessica Chua Nodland, Lucie Venot & Milagros Sánchez

Jamjar Polo: Lorraine Lisette Clewits, Adilla Jamaludin, Pearl Venot & Elena Venot

The Queen’s Cup Pink Polo teams

Best Dressed competitors during the half-time treading in Photography courtesy of Thai Polo and Equestrian Club

Sportsmanship and fair play were the ingredients of the day

Dr.med. Andreas Krüger is a Swiss board orthopaedic and trauma surgeon in Zurich, who specialises in knee and shoulder surgery. Andi is a second generation of tournament doctors for equine sports, known as Polodoc since 2013

Tiger in the Tank for Peak Performance

The role of IV infusion in polo and sports

In the fast-paced world of polo, where precision, agility, and endurance are paramount, athletes are constantly seeking innovative methods to enhance their performance and recovery. One such method that has gained traction in recent years is intravenous (IV) infusion therapy. The application of IV infusion in the context of polo and sports, can bring benefits.

Benefits of IV Infusion in Sports

IV infusion therapy involves the direct administration of fluids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system for rapid absorption. In the demanding sport of polo, where matches can be physically and mentally exhausting, IV

infusion offers several potential benefits. Lately NAD+ is a new kid on the block in the arsenal of IV infusion therapies.

Rapid Rehydration: Polo players often face dehydration due to the intense physical exertion and exposure to high temperatures during matches. IV infusion allows for rapid rehydration, replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes more effectively than oral hydration alone.

Nutrient Delivery: IV infusion can deliver essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids directly into the bloodstream, promoting faster recovery and muscle repair. This targeted delivery of nutrients may enhance performance and reduce the risk of fatigue and injury.

Energy Boost: IV infusion can include energy-boosting compounds such as B vitamins and amino acids, providing players with a quick and sustainable energy source during matches.

Immune Support: The rigorous training and travel schedules of polo players can weaken the immune system, making them more susceptible to illness. IV infusion therapy may strengthen the immune response by delivering immune-boosting nutrients like vitamin C and zinc.

Enhanced Recovery: IV infusion accelerates the removal of metabolic waste products such as lactic acid, reducing muscle soreness and speeding up recovery between matches or training sessions.

Infusion could be done in a relaxed environment

Risks and Considerations

While IV infusion therapy offers potential benefits for polo players and athletes, it is not without risks and considerations:

Electrolyte Imbalance: Overhydration or excessive electrolyte supplementation through IV infusion can lead to electrolyte imbalances, which may cause adverse effects such as muscle cramps, weakness, or cardiac complications.

Regulatory Concerns: The use of IV infusion therapy in sports raises ethical and regulatory concerns, particularly regarding fair competition and the potential for misuse or abuse. Sporting organisations may have strict regulations regarding the use of IV therapy, and athletes should adhere to these guidelines to maintain integrity in the sport.

Cost: IV infusion therapy can be costly, particularly if it is not covered by insurance. Polo players should weigh the potential benefits against the financial investment and consider alternative methods of performance enhancement and recovery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, IV infusion therapy holds promise as a tool for enhancing performance and recovery in polo and sports. By providing rapid rehydration, targeted nutrient delivery, energy support, immune reinforcement, and accelerated recovery, IV infusion can help polo players maintain peak performance levels and optimize their competitive edge. However, athletes must approach IV infusion with caution, ensuring that it is administered safely, ethically, and in compliance with regulatory standards.

IV infusion therapy in polo also in combination with adjunctive energy recovering therapy can be a potential milestone to boost performance and has the potential for striving excellence on the field.

NAD+ is an essential housekeeping molecule found in every cell of the body, participating in numerous metabolic pathways. It serves as a vital cofactor and driving force for various critical cellular processes, such as energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, biosynthesis, gene expression, DNA repair, immune function, and ageing.

As a coenzyme, NAD+ performs two crucial functions: it acts as an electron transporter in cellular respiration and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, and it also serves as a substrate for poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and sirtuin (SIRT) enzymes, which are involved in DNA repair, gene regulation, and cell signalling – as well as being a substrate for CD38 ectoenzymes.

In essence, without NAD+, we would die. NAD+ is as vital to our bodies as oxygen. By enhancing and optimising NAD+ levels through therapeutic intervention, we can improve both mental and physical human performance and extend our lifespan.

The Critical Role Of NAD+

NAD+ is crucial for life. It is a novel form of Vitamin B Natural coenzyme found in all living cells and is directly involved in the ATP (Energy) production. NAD+ is involved in hundreds of metabolic functions, ranging from energy creation to maintaining healthy DNA. It is faster consumed than reproduced, our body cannot reproduce NAD+ sufficiently as we reach our thirties – and this ability further declines with age.

The decline of NAD+ levels will be accelerated by poor lifestyle choices such as an unhealthy diet, stress, alcohol and substance abuse. The decrease in NAD+ levels is the scientific trigger for the decline of many basic physiological functions that leads to early aging and potentially chronic disease.

A sustained imbalance in NAD+ metabolism can disrupt physiological functions, potentially leading to diseases such as metabolic disorders, cancer, premature ageing, and neurodegenerative conditions. The impact of NAD+ deficiency on various diseases through the manipulation of cellular communication networks can be mitigated by NAD+ therapeutic intervention.

The Link Reaction & Krebs Cycle

Basic NAD+ biosynthesis pathways

India Parker-Smith is the founder and owner of Chukka Wellness which provides the leading training and movement methodology designed for the equestrian athlete to enhance suppleness, stability and strength in the saddle. India is a Personal Trainer who offers online and offline fitness training designed to elevate the well-being of the equestrian athlete. Using her knowledge of seven years she has created a series of masterclasses, a virtual membership hub and online training programmes all designed to complement the equestrian’s health and wellness both in and out of the saddle. You will find more information on India’s services on her website www.chukkawellness.co.uk and Instagram page @chukka_wellness

Speed Up Your Recovery In-Between Chukkas

The season is nearly upon us – would you say you are the fittest you could be for the UK polo season?

If you’re looking to gain that competitive edge and beat your opponent to the ball, maintain optimal performance and recover quicker in-between chukkas then cardio training is a must.

I joined 10 goaler Hazel Jackson to take you through a fun cardio workout. Hazel will

Bosu Jumps

– 40 seconds

– 1 minute

Grab a bosu and start with the right foot on the bosu and the left on the ground. Jump yourself up into the air and land with the left foot on the bosu and the right one on the ground. Maintain a fast and consistent rhythm and stay light on your feet to avoid any back or knee injuries

Bosu Lateral Jumps

– 40 seconds

– 1 minute

be kick starting her UK season with three 15 goal tournaments with Amanara Polo Team and also be playing the UK ladies season with UAE Polo.

The aim of this workout is to increase and maintain the heart rate through a series of different exercises. The idea is to shut down recovery time encouraging the body to continue to work under fatigue. This helps the rider during games when their body is

tired, but they still have another two chukkas to go!

This workout can be adapted to suit all levels and abilities so don’t be afraid to give it a go.

Remember to complete an effective mobility routine to prepare your body for the training session – I have some fun workouts on my Instagram page @IPS Equestrian Performance

Photography by Chukka Wellness

Start in a lateral lunge with the right foot on the bosu and the left foot on the ground. Your left leg is bent and right leg is straight. Push up off the left foot and jump up and over the bosu landing the other side. This time the left leg is bent and right leg is straight.

Fast feet – Ladder optional – 40 seconds – 1 minute

If you have a ladder, side step through the ladder skipping from the left to the right side. If you have cones side step fast through the cones. The idea is to work non-stop for 40 seconds and to elevate the heart rate.

Shuttle Sprints – 30 seconds

Record Breaking Final’s Day

Place two cones 10 to 20m apart and sprint from one cone to the other cone for 30 seconds. Lean down to touch the cone each time – this stops the momentum of the sprint adding an extra level of difficulty.

The Paul Sweeney Memorial was founded by Lesley, Charlotte and Georgia Sweeney in memory of Paul Sweeney after his unexpected death in 2009 at just 48-years-old in order to keep his spirit and legacy alive. Each year, the tournament attracts a number of players and spectators, gathering at Ash Farm Polo Club to cheer on the finalists. This year saw a record number of teams and after a two-year postponement due to Covid-19, the grandstands were packed. Twelve Oaks managed to stave off a last-minute attempt by Rosina to claim the title and took a 14-12 victory.

India will be launching her six week pre-season training program via her new App – if you’re looking to improve your fitness and become more effective in the saddle then check it out on www.indiaparkersmith.com click on Polo and Programmes.

Paul Sweeney Memorial Final; Ash Farm Polo Club; Sunday 20 February

Photography by Antonia Bullrich

Rhett Wooldridge

Olivia Whittle & Lisa Knight

Harry Applegate, Anton Nymans, Charlie Graham, Issy Litvak & Issy Langrish

Georgia Sweeney & Gemma Byrne

Frankie & Alex Antony

Pete & George Woodward

Bridie Courtney Morgan

Charlie Simpson & Jade Louise Wheeler Sandy & Mike Warren, Ross Byrne

Sophie Morrison

Mary Kelly

Issy Litvak & Libby Connaughton

Jemima Wilson & Graham Wooldridge

How Can We Feed The ‘Good-Doers’?

Lorna Edgar answers your questions

I have had some questions recently on how we can control the calorie intake of those that hold their weight well, and I might even add into this, those that ‘go better’ for being a little lighter. My heart always goes out to those ‘good-doers’ that love their food but are restricted in their feed and forage, possibly because I am a human good-doer so I can relate!

We can make their lives a little happier, just by making small changes to their management and reducing their calorie intake in a healthy, positive way to satisfy their need to eat – after all, they are programmed to ‘trickle feed’ and stopping that can be detrimental to their performance and also their physical and psychological wellbeing.

First and foremost – you must stand back and condition score the horse in front of you and also consider their conformation.

Is there not one feed that works for all horses that I can just feed less or more of?

Sadly there isn’t – just like humans, they all have different metabolisms, build/ conformations, temperaments, and so on! I call it ‘blanket feeding’ when everyone in the barn has the same food. For the majority it may work, but there will always be the one or two that put a spanner in the works and their needs are different, whether it be for energy levels, or in this instance, being a ‘good doer’ that holds their weight too well.

What usually happens in the ‘blanket feeding’ scenario is that the good-doers will just be given less of the generic feed, which is often a Conditioning Cubes or Conditioning Mix. The problem here is that the feed is manufactured to be fed in certain quantities according to workload to ensure a balanced diet is fed, so underfeeding it causes the horse in question to not receive a balance of all those essential nutrients to support said workload. They are then deficient in essential nutrients – which in turn reduces the ability to burn fat, they under-perform and lose muscle integrity, increasing the risk of tying up – and so the list continues.

So, in a word, blanket feeding is OK for the short term, but once you are feeding more than, or under, the recommended quantities, individual diets need to be adopted to support workload and performance.

Is it best to not feed the ‘good-doer’ when they come back into work from their winter break and just begin to feed them once playing?

Good question! Rather than not feeding them or starting them on a feed like everybody else, as I have mentioned above, start as you mean to go on, gradually introducing proteins, vitamins and minerals into the diet to help them build muscle and BURN FAT.

I wouldn’t even consider a cube or mix in any form (a Conditioning Cube or a Horse & Pony Cube, for example). I would go straight to a low calorie balancer, such as a Performance Balancer and feed the

recommended quantities (typically fed in mugs per day) – which will complement the forage, so restricting the forage will not be necessary.

I have a string of ten horses, one of whom can be quite ‘tubby’. I like to turn my horses out at night so when she is in during the day I just don’t give her much hay, but as the season progresses, she gets grumpy – what should I do to manage her?

OK, I totally understand your dilemma, but I love the fact your horses are out at night and moving. Here are some ideas that may help you in her management:

• Could she possibly go in a separate field that has had the grass eaten down, maybe with a friend that holds condition well?

• Sometimes a corral may work, so they can be outside in a bigger space than a

Lorna Edgar – specialist equine nutritionist

The essentials of learning to condition score. Is there actually fat? This mare has a lot of fluff, a big rib cage and actually ZERO fat!

stable, but you put a hay net in the corral for them to graze on, thus enabling you to control the amount of forage being eaten.

• Ensuring she is on a balancer and not fed a cube or mix – keeping the diet balanced but low in calories.

• Bulking the balancer out with a heaped scoop of a Light Chaff or Hi-Fi Light, or soaking one cup of Speedi-Beet, which swells into one soaked round bowl scoop of beet pulp – all ideas will provide extra fibre with minimal calorie intake.

• Trying to slow down the chew rate of her forage is ideal:

o Double netting small holed haylage nets or purchasing a ‘trickle feeding net’ so they have to work harder to get the forage out.

o Tying nets from the rafter rather than against a wall.

o Putting two or three nets in the stable to allow more of a grazing effect rather than standing in one place to consume!

o Feeding little and often

• Use hay rather than haylage – the hay can then be soaked (do not be tempted to soak haylage) for approximately 8 hours. This will reduce the calorie intake of the hay but still ensure plenty of fibre is still being received in the diet. Always introduce soaked hay gradually, so they don’t get put off it straight away.

I am at a loss as to how to restrict calories! I really don’t want to use a muzzle, but have been told this is the best option – what do I do?

I think I have answered most of this question in the answer above with some bullet points in how to control the calorie intake of a good doer and hopefully some of these ideas work with your yard routines.

However, I would strongly discourage

you from using a muzzle. They really are not acceptable, especially if we think of the negative impact they have physically and psychologically, such as stopping the horse from self-grooming, probably not drinking enough water, a build-up of bacteria in the bottom of the muzzle, respiration hygiene, depression and frustration.

Importantly, stopping the horse from chewing also stops the production of saliva which helps buffer the gastric acid which is continuously being produced at a rate of one and a half litres per hour. Without any fibre for it to break down, the acid gradually spills through to the small intestine and hind gut, causing disturbances of fibre-digesting bacteria and of course increasing the risk of gastric ulcers in the stomach.

Muzzles should only be used under veterinary advice should a horse have colic, for example. There are so many things that can be done to avoid using muzzles to control appetite that they really should not be a consideration in any yard competing at any level of polo.

I use a balancer for my gelding who is a ‘good-doer’, but he can still be lazy during the season, what else can I do? Firstly, well done for using a balancer for your ‘good-doer’ – it’s a great start to managing his calorie intake and hopefully he has some great muscle development and integrity too.

So, this can be a problem for some horses, especially as the season becomes busier and the demands are greater.

We need to avoid using muzzles at all costs

Some ideas to help:

• Ensure you are feeding enough of the balancer to support the workload, and don’t under-estimate how hard the polo pony works! For example, for an average 15.2hh Thoroughbred stamp of pony, travelling three times per week and being fed Performance Balancer, I would encourage 1,250g (five measuring mugs) of balancer to be fed per day.

• If calories are under control, ensure adequate amounts of fibre are being received, the fibre will be contributing towards energy – having a hay net for travelling is also going to help.

• Ensure he is drinking enough water, so we know he is hydrated.

• Preloading with electrolytes before practice chukkas and matches to help reduce the onset of fatigue (this can contribute to up to a 23 percent reduction in the onset of fatigue) by administering electrolytes one to two hours before exercising hard. Feed in a very sloppy beet pulp, although adding to a chaff and water combination is ideal.

• Finally, once all the points above have been considered, we can look at using bruised oats to add to the balancer. This is the lowest calorie, highest energy option – you may find that adding half a scoop (round bowl Stubbs scoop) per day is enough to give him that extra energy, or you could increase it to three scoops per day! BUT, you must reduce the oats when he is not working as hard, so he doesn’t use the energy in the oats as calories and put on condition again! I always suggest fluctuating the oats with the workload, reducing the risk of unwanted calories, but to also reduce the risk of tying up etc.

I hope the above answers to some of the recent questions are of help in managing your good-doer. If you need any more advice or tips, please do not hesitate to get in touch!

A little bit about me, I have worked at Baileys Horse Feeds for 20 years now. Prior to joining Baileys, I worked as a groom, primarily in polo but also eventing as well. Starting my grooming career at Beaufort Polo Club is where my love of the polo pony began and then I went on to spend a few seasons grooming at Cowdray Park and across the world in New Zealand, Florida and Saratoga. I studied my Equine Science Degree at Hartpury University as a mature student and loved being able to relate to my practical experiences of being a groom to my studying!

Allowing ad lib forage in a net allows the greedy ‘good-doer’ to have natural feeding habits and self-regulate their fibre intake

Understanding what it takes to overcome fear and self-doubt has been at the root of Paul ‘Stalkie’ Stalker’s personal transformation. He has proven experience of working with Polo Teams, Patrons and individual players for the past 3 years achieving outstanding results. With individual clients, Stalkie’s aim is to untap, nurture and focus their passion and potential on becoming the best versions of themselves in all aspects of their lives, whatever their starting point

Surround Yourself with the Right People!

In the intricate web of human connections, our peers act as both companions and architects of our destiny. The influence they wield can either propel us to greater heights or hold us back from realising our full potential. This article explores the profound impact of peer influence and why it is crucial to be discerning about the company we keep.

Understanding Peer Influence

Humans are inherently social beings, deeply influenced by the behaviours, attitudes, and values of those around us. This phenomenon, known as social contagion, shapes our perceptions and decisions in profound ways. Whether consciously or unconsciously, we tend to mirror the traits of our peers, making the choice of companions a significant determinant of our personal and professional development.

I first got to understand this in more depth when I attended Tony Robbins Seminar ‘Unleash the Power Within’. He says, “If we surround ourselves with people who are successful, who are forwardmoving, who are positive, who are focused on producing results, who support us, it will challenge us to be more and do more and share more. If you can surround yourself with people who will never let you settle for less than you can be, you have the greatest gift that anyone can hope for.”

Numerous studies have underscored the power of peer influence in shaping behaviour and outcomes. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that individuals are more likely to engage in risky behaviours like binge drinking or smoking if they perceive their peers to be doing the same. Similarly,

The power or peer influence

research in the field of social psychology has demonstrated how positive peer influence can foster academic achievement, pro-social behaviour, and mental well-being among adolescents.

Case Study 1: The Framingham Heart Study

The Framingham Heart Study, a landmark longitudinal study spanning over seven decades, offers valuable insights into the role of peer influence in health-related behaviours. Researchers found that obesity, smoking, and happiness can spread through social networks, indicating the contagious nature of behaviours within peer groups. Individuals were significantly more likely to adopt lifestyle habits prevalent among their friends and acquaintances, highlighting the impact of social ties on health outcomes.

Positive peer interactions promote skill development, tactical synergy, and team cohesion, contributing to success on the field

Photography by www.imagesofpolo.com

“Surround yourself with those who only lift you higher”

Oprah Winfrey

Peer Influence in Polo

Case Study 2: The Silicon Valley Effect

In the dynamic ecosystem of Silicon Valley, peer influence plays a pivotal role in shaping entrepreneurial success. A study by Harvard Business School analysed the networks of entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley and found that individuals surrounded by high-performing peers were more likely to achieve entrepreneurial success themselves. The collaborative culture, knowledge-sharing ethos, and supportive ecosystem in Silicon Valley facilitates peer learning and innovation, driving collective progress in the tech industry.

Peer influence plays a significant role in shaping behaviours and attitudes in various contexts, including sports. In youth soccer teams, where camaraderie and teamwork are paramount, the influence of peers can profoundly impact individual performance, team dynamics, and overall success.

This case study explores the role of peer influence in a polo team and its implications for player development.

Polo, a sport known for its elegance, athleticism, and teamwork, provides an intriguing context to explore the dynamics of peer influence within teams. In the world of polo, where coordination, strategy, and mutual trust are paramount, the influence of peers can significantly impact individual performance, team dynamics, and overall success. This case study delves into the role of peer influence in a polo team and its implications for player development and team cohesion.

Background

The polo team under examination comprises players from diverse backgrounds, ranging from seasoned professionals to up-andcoming talents. As in any competitive sport, camaraderie, communication, and synergy among team members are critical for achieving victory on the field. The team participates in high-stakes tournaments and exhibitions, where strategic acumen and precise execution are essential for success.

Observations

Throughout the season, several instances of peer influence were observed within the polo team:

Skill Enhancement: Players with advanced polo skills and strategic prowess often serve as role models for their teammates. Through observation and emulation, less experienced players seek to refine their techniques and elevate their game to match the standards set by their peers.

Tactical Collaboration: Peer influence plays a significant role in shaping tactical

Coming Soon!

If you would like to surround yourself with positive people in a positive environment, keep an eye out for our Club RAISE.

In the club we bring you our dynamic community – a secret club for savvy individuals who want to thrive and ignite their true potential in their personal, business or sports life. All in one space!

Join us for exclusive webinars, lively discussions, the freedom to exchange brilliant ideas and have access to our CPD accredited modules and courses.

The club is your go-to community hub for a transformative approach to mindset and wellbeing, spearheaded by the uplifting guidance of Paul ‘Stalkie’ Stalker, entrepreneur and England’s mindset guy. If you’re on the lookout for a positive community that blends psychology, coaching and wellbeing to help you level up your mental game, you’re in the right place whatever your goal.

At Club Raise, Stalkie brings mindset techniques, hacks and coaching together to create one fabulous and uplifting community.

“If we surround ourselves with people who are successful, who are forwardmoving, who are positive, who are focused on producing results, who support us, it will challenge us to be more and do more and share more. If you can surround yourself with people who will never let you settle for less than you can be, you have the greatest gift that anyone can hope for.”

Tony Robbins

decisions and game strategies within the team. Players who demonstrate astute game awareness, effective communication, and adaptability on the field inspire their teammates to collaborate more cohesively and execute coordinated plays.

Team Morale: Positive peer interactions contribute to a supportive team environment and bolster morale during challenging matches. Players who offer encouragement, constructive feedback, and unwavering support to their teammates foster a sense of camaraderie and unity within the team, enhancing resilience and motivation.

Leadership Influence: Influential leaders within the team, such as captains or veteran players, wield considerable influence over their peers. Their actions, attitudes, and decision-making on and off the field shape the team’s culture, values, and performance standards, guiding younger players and fostering a sense of collective purpose.

Impact

The influence of peers within the polo team has both positive and negative implications for individual players and team dynamics:

Positive Impact

Skill Development: Peer modelling and guidance facilitate skill enhancement and strategic refinement among players, leading to improved performance and competitiveness.

Tactical Synergy: Positive peer interactions promote effective communication, collaboration, and tactical coordination, enhancing the team’s ability to execute game plans and adapt to changing circumstances.

Team Cohesion: Supportive peer dynamics foster a sense of unity, trust, and camaraderie within the team, strengthening morale and resilience during challenging moments.

Negative Impact

Performance Pressure: Intense competition and peer comparisons may lead to increased performance pressure and anxiety among players, potentially affecting confidence and decision-making on the field.

Cliques and Exclusion: Exclusive peer groups or cliques within the team could foster feelings of alienation or exclusion among certain players, undermining team unity and cohesion.

Conflict and Disruption: Negative peer dynamics, such as ego clashes or interpersonal conflicts, can disrupt team harmony, communication, and focus, detracting from overall performance and morale.

Conclusion

Peer influence plays a crucial role in shaping performance, team dynamics, and culture within polo teams. Positive peer interactions promote skill development, tactical synergy, and team cohesion, contributing to success on the field. However, negative peer dynamics, such as performance pressure or interpersonal conflicts, can hinder individual and team performance.

Coaches, team leaders, and stakeholders in polo teams play vital roles in fostering a positive peer environment, promoting communication, collaboration, and mutual respect among players. By nurturing a culture of support, inclusivity, and shared goals, polo teams can harness the power of peer influence to maximize individual potential, enhance team performance, and cultivate a winning mindset on and off the field.

Find out more about Stalkie at www.raisepolo.com

Playing tips with Rege Ludwig Six Aspects of Riding to Focus On

Renowned polo coach, Rege Ludwig gives his expert advice on how to get more out of your game

Within my teaching of the riding aspect of playing polo, I use the term, Polo Riding Checklist to indicate that there are six aspects of riding the polo horse that the polo player should be continuously aware of and constantly paying attention to.

Those six aspects are:

1. Toes Up/Heels Down

2. Weight in the stirrups on the medial side of your feet: The majority of the weight in the stirrups should be on the big ball of your feet. That is because the big ball of your foot is much stronger than the little ball; therefore, can support the weight of your body much more effectively than the little ball.

3. Grip with the upper leg; knee to groin: The upper leg is the strongest part of your legs with which to grip the horse; therefore it is the most effective part of your legs with which to secure your seat to the horse as it is working under you.

4. Arch your lower back: Arching your lower back greatly facilitates balancing your upper body, which is essential to controlled upper body movement.

5. Lift your shoulder up and pull them back: Lifting your shoulders and pulling them back facilitates the positioning and the balancing of your upper body.

6. Head, lift your head up and tilt it slightly back: That movement facilitates balancing your upper body back and over your hips; which is essential to controlling upper body movement. There are two major reasons why number one, toes up/heels down, is significant. The first reason is related to the gripping strength of your upper legs, which is crucial to maintaining the stability of your riding platform; from which you control the horse and hit the ball.

If your riding platform is not stable, there is a good chance your upper body will move in a somewhat uncontrollable manner; and as a result, so moves your right shoulder; which, moves your right arm and hand, which moves the mallet that is going to hit the ball. Under those conditions, there is little chance of the mallet head contacting the ball correctly.

For instance, if your torso is unstable to the point off your right shoulder unknowingly moving; that uncontrolled movement decreases the accuracy and the power with which the mallet head contacts the ball; thereby, decreasing both accuracy and

power to the degree to which the unknown movement was made.

The second thing that toes down and heels up negatively which the mallet head contacts the ball; thereby, decreasing both accuracy and power to the degree to which the unknown movement was made. affects is your upper body balance. With your toes down and your heel up, your body tends to be falling farther forward. When that is the case, a tight back decreases upper body movement, thereby, decreasing the power and the accuracy with which the mallet head contacts the ball.

When it comes to horse control; your upper leg contact is critical from the perspective of delivering the message your upper body movement is sending to the horse through your upper leg contact to the horse. That upper leg contact is where the horse understands what you are asking of it at any given moment, i. e., accelerate, decelerate, or change direction.

Because your upper leg contact to the horse is so crucial, toes up/heels down is more than just another factor to be aware of. Toes up heels down is critical from the perspective of using your upper legs to deliver the correct message to the horse so the horse understands what it should be doing for you at any given moment; and, understands how intensely it should be

doing it for you.

With your heels down, the muscles, tendons, and ligaments on the back side of your legs are being stretched down; that, in turn, causes your upper legs to close strongly onto the horse’s sides. Under those conditions. the horse can more readily feel the message your upper body is sending through your upper legs pressing into its shoulders.

Depending on how secure your upper leg contact into the horse’s shoulders is, the horse understands the intensity with which it should be doing what you are asking of it at any given moment.

Within my equestrian career I have ridden in many equestrian disciplines; and in just about every one, I have been told, “toes up/ heels down”. However, I don’t remember ever having been told why toes up/heels down is important.

From the why perspective, I offer the following understanding as to why you need your toes turned up, while pushing your heels down is important to having a secure and stable seat on the polo horse.

With your toes turned up and your heels pushed down, your legs are pulled down along the horse’s sides. That, in turn, creates a strong upper leg contact from which you ride and control the horse, and position yourself in the saddle to hit the ball.

Toes up/heels down

Your lower back should be the next part of your body to pay attention to. Your lower back should be well arched for the purpose of establishing and maintaining upper body balance control, which is critical to the process of controlling the horse and hitting the ball with maximum efficiency.

With your lower back arched, your upper body should be extended well up with your shoulders being lifted up and pulled slightly back. With your shoulders lifted up and

pulled back, you are facilitating accurate upper body movement, which is critical to correctly controlling the horse and accurately hitting the ball.

The last part of your body to pay attention to is your head. Your head should be lifted up, and tilted somewhat back to where your ears are positioned directly above your shoulders. With your upper body in that position, there should be a reasonably straight vertical line from your hips, to your

shoulders, to your ears.

With your upper body so positioned, your upper leg so attached, and your heels pushed well down; moving on the horse’s back with control is enhanced.

If any one of those three criteria is not attended to; moving with controlled accuracy on the horse’s back becomes difficult and usually inaccurate.

Correct accelerating seat

Polo seat positioning

WellBeings was established in 2002 by Hayley Drakes, Holistic Therapy Specialist and Clinical Hypnotherapist. Hayley is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience in the form of Self Care Tools for every day use. Hayley has been around equines her whole life and understands that riders and handlers often hold tension physically and mentally. Hayley’s clients range from teenagers to those in their 90s and people from all walks of life. She’s enjoyed working with equestrians from weekend leisure riders up to top International Para and Grand Prix Dressage riders

Improve Your Game With A Tennis Ball And A Long Sock!

Banish start of season aches and maintain your body for a successful season

I discovered that riders usually carry similar tension patterns to their horses. It seems logical that both parts of the ‘team’ need to be in tip top physical and mental condition in order to perform well. So, as well as professional bodywork sessions, incorporating the following self-care techniques in your routine can be really useful for rider body and mind maintenance. They are equally useful for those who have desk jobs, drive a lot or handle/look after equines.

Use these easy techniques regularly and notice how your game improves. The more you use them, the better you will feel mentally and physically. Here I have provided six tips to enhance mental relaxation and physical suppleness which can take your performance to another level.

Some of the Benefits of Self Massage for Polo Players

The compression and release of soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia) during self-massage is a bit like a sponge being squeezed and released and this has many positive effects:

– Suppleness in the neck and shoulder area contributes to an effective and comfortable swing.

– Increased blood flow, bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients into the soft tissues.

– Increased blood flow to the brain means clearer thinking, better concentration and quick reactions for a fast-paced competitive sport.

– Creates good body awareness of when areas are tense and when to rest. This is

essential for athletes to help prevent injury.

– A feeling of mental and emotional balance. Those feelings of calm and reducing tension in the muscles and soft tissues have a positive effect on performance.

– Energising: Ideal for inclusion in a prematch warm up routine.

– Faster recovery after hard physical exercise.

– Effective body and mind maintenance.

– Lymphatic circulation improves too, which is key to a strong immune system and disposal of toxins and waste products.

Simple Upper Body Massage Tools and Techniques

Take a moment to observe how your abdominal area expands on the in breath and relaxes back on the out breath. This ‘belly breathing’ means the very important diaphragm muscle under the lungs flattens and domes to effectively fill and empty them. This is vital to sports performance. No need for forced deep breaths, simply develop the habit of noticing how the abdomen moves out like a beach ball inflating on the in breath and then deflating on the out breath.

Are Your Shoulders Like Boulders?

Simple techniques to release and relax them:

1) Shoulder Rolls

Simple and really effective for aiding mobility, easing tension and improving posture.

Slow backwards circles with your shoulders. Backwards assists us to have good shoulder posture, since we do most activities with our hands in front of us and our shoulders rounded to some degree.

As with all therapeutic modalities use common sense. If you feel discomfort, then use a lighter pressure or stop. Avoid bony areas – it is the soft tissues you are working. You might hear clicks and these are fine as long as they are within your comfort level.

Work steadily and you will be pleasantly surprised how quickly you can release tension from the body and mind and how amazing it feels too.

Start By Breathing!

An important part of self-care is being aware of effective breathing. A healthy intake of oxygen is essential for optimum physical and mental performance.

The easiest way is simply shrugging and rolling them backwards in a circle. Depending on your mobility you may need to begin smaller and increase the size as you feel more supple. Alternatives are to place fingers on the front of the shoulder joint and draw circles with elbows or even have arms outstretched to the side and draw big circles with the hands. Listen to your body and work within your range. Be gentle and kind with your body and you will notice the mobility increase quicker as you warm up and get things moving.

This technique works the whole shoulder area. Feel how the joint moves and how the whole area is soon feeling really good as the muscles warm and the tendons, ligaments and fascia are all positively affected. Ideally spend a few minutes at least on this technique, longer if you can. Observing if one shoulder moves easier than the other and how this changes as tension eases.

The whole area should feel warm and more supple as the blood is circulating better now and you may feel your brilliant nervous

system joining in as you get warmth and tingling up and down your back too. The whole body is now benefitting.

Are you remembering to breathe and notice the belly moving?

2) Shrug and Drop

Simply lift both shoulders up towards you ears, then let let them drop like heavy weights. Repeat several times.

3) Squeeze and Roll

There are three areas to work in this way with the opposite hand by squeezing then rolling the muscle. Always observing how it feels. Perhaps one side needs more attention and if so, do more on that side. Moving maybe to several places on that area massaging the soft tissues with the squeeze and roll technique. Always start

gently and only increase pressure if it feels appropriate.

Top of Shoulder – hand across the front of the body to the opposite shoulder as if you are picking up the trapezius muscle and squeeze and roll it forward with your fingers.

Neck – cupping the back of the neck and working the muscles on the opposite side with the fingers in a squeezing rolling movement.

Upper Arm – cupping the opposite upper arm, gently squeezing and rolling the muscles forwards.

4) Sawing

Place thumbs under base of skull at top of neck muscles, move thumbs side-to-side in a sawing action to relax tight muscles. The neck muscles predominantly connect into the base of the skull and so this area can become very tight and tender so be gentle to begin with.

5) A Tennis Ball, a Wall and a Long Sock!

A great massage tool and can be used rolled on various areas such as tops of shoulders, upper arms, upper chest, lower back, gluteal/ bum area and thighs remembering to avoid any bony areas. This also massages your hand.

The ball spreads the pressure for comfort and you can choose the depth of pressure.

Put the ball in a long sock for the tennis ball to be able to reach that area that holds tension between and under the shoulder blades on either side of the spine. Sling it over your shoulder and use a wall to lean on.

Bringing the arms forwards as if hugging yourself means you can reach those tense areas that normally hide underneath the shoulder blades.

Gently bounce on areas of tension to release them.

Move your body so that the ball is effectively rolling and massaging wherever it feels good.

Take time to really work this area and notice how much easier it all feels afterwards.

Remembering to belly breathe as you use these techniques and imagine your soft tissues flooding with fresh oxygen and nutrients.

6) Shake out

Finish off with a loose shake of the arms and a few rotatons of the shoulders.

Notice how much better the whole shoulder area feels now and how different you feel mentally too.

Maybe find a time in your day when you can do this, and make it a regular habit. You will be surprised how quickly you feel a tangible difference.

Mrs Hayley N Drakes MFHT, Adv.Dip.Hyp ISCH, ADPR GHR

Member – Federation of Holistic Therapists

Advanced Practitioner – General Hypnotherapy Register

Holistic Specialist and Clinical Hypnotherapist

WellBeings Natural Therapies and Clinical Hypnotherapy

Providing a range of Therapies since 2002

www.hayleydrakes.co.uk

Tel: 01427 875013

Mobile: 07774 951282

Neck squeeze and roll

Upper arm squeeze and roll

A tennis ball is a great tool to spread the pressure

A long sock combined with tennis ball allows you to reach over your shoulder to tense areas

Photography by EKS Images

Polo Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner; Friday 16 February; Museum of Polo in Lake Worth, USA

Polo Stars Shine: Gala Brilliance

In a gathering of 250 distinguished guests, the 35th Museum of Polo Hall of Fame Awards Dinner in Lake Worth, Florida celebrated polo’s heroes. The event welcomed the presence of past Hall of Famers and Iglehart Award winners, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie. Notable attendees included Red Armour, Bob Beveridge, Hector Galindo, Charles Smith, Tony Coppola, Tim Gannon, and Jimmy Newman. Notable attendees included Red Armour, Bob Beveridge, Hector Galindo, Charles Smith, Tony Coppola, Tim Gannon, and Jimmy Newman. Guests enjoyed an hour of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, and received a gift book featuring artwork by Melinda Brewer, sponsored by the Iconica Foundation, Marty, and Amanda Cregg. The successful event was made possible by sponsors including Grand Gala Dinner Sponsors Marc and Melissa Ganzi, Grand Champions Polo Club, Olexa Celine, Robert I. Goldman Foundation, and the U.S. Polo Assn. To read more about the inductees, please turn to the News section.

Photography by YA

Dave, Jeff & Lynne Blake

Dick Latham & Charles Smith

Fred, Brenda & Heather Williams with George DuPont Jr

Gonzalito & Maria Pieres

Billy Kaynor, Olexa Celine, Laura Kaynor

Ines & Sapo Caset

Maria Flora Miller, Penelope Miller & Whitney Miller

Juan Martin Zubia & Mia Cambiaso Craig and Roni Duke Red & Louise Armour

Rosario & Alejandro Novillo Astrada Kelsea & Fred Mannix

USPA Chairman Stewart Armstrong and wife, CC

J. Michael & Amanda Prince Nacho Figueras, Marc Ganzi, Melissa Ganzi, Juan Bollini & Delfina Figueras

Bawtry

Beaufort

info@beverleypoloclub.co.uk Binfield

Club 00353 87 6605917 info@poloclubbunclody.com

Burningfold Polo Club 01483 200722 derrek@burningfold.com

Cambridge Polo Club* 07711 217004 cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com

Cambridge Polo Club* 07711 217004 cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com

Cambridge County Polo Club* 01223 812922 info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk

Cambridge County Polo Club* 01223 812922 info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk

Carlton House 07901 561113 harrietservaes@hotmail.com

Carlton House 07901 561113 harrietservaes@hotmail.com

Chester Racecourse Polo Club 01244 304602 amorris@chester-races.com

Chester Racecourse Polo Club 01244 304602 amorris@chester-races.com

Cheshire Polo Club 01948 861020 info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk

Cheshire Polo Club 01948 861020 info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk

Chiltern Polo Club 07973 174542 info@chilternpoloclub.com

Chiltern Polo Club 07973 174542 info@chilternpoloclub.com

Cirencester Park Polo Club 01285 653225 info@cirencesterpolo.co.uk

Cirencester Park Polo Club 01285 653225 info@cirencesterpolo.co.uk

Cowdray Polo Club 01730 813257 enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk

Cowdray Polo Club 01730 813257 enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk

Curraghmore Polo Club 00353 51 387102 mkennedy@cssgroup.ie

Curraghmore Polo Club 00353 51 387102 mkennedy@cssgroup.ie

Dallas Burston Polo Club* 01926 811 111 enquiries@ixlevents.com

Dallas Burston Polo Club* 01926 811 111 enquiries@ixlevents.com

Dorset Polo Club 01202 623985 office@dorsetpolo.co.uk

Dorset Polo Club 01202 623985 office@dorsetpolo.co.uk

Druids Lodge Polo Club* 01722 782597 abi@druidspolo.co.uk

Druids Lodge Polo Club* 01722 782597 abi@druidspolo.co.uk

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dundee and Perth Polo Club* 07831 365 194 jamesscrawford@aol.com

Dundee and Perth Polo Club* 07831 365 194 jamesscrawford@aol.com

Dave and Steph Allen have a new arrival and baby sister for Sybil with the arrival of their second daughter, Cordelia Mary Anna Allen, born on Friday 1 March at 8.5lbs. Tell

Eastwood Polo Club 07875 743475 frankums@googlemail.com

Eastwood Polo Club 07875 743475 frankums@googlemail.com

Edgeworth Polo Club 01285 821695 edgeworthpolo@gmail.com

Edgeworth Polo Club 01285 821695 edgeworthpolo@gmail.com

Edinburgh Polo Club* 07971 072336 james.dgls@gmail.com

Edinburgh Polo Club* 07971 072336 james.dgls@gmail.com

Emsworth Polo Grounds* 01344 883112 info@fourquarterspolo.co.uk

Emsworth Polo Grounds* 01344 883112 info@fourquarterspolo.co.uk

Epsom Polo Club* 07961 232106 epsompoloclub@hotmail.com

Epsom Polo Club* 07961 232106 epsompoloclub@hotmail.com

FHM Polo Club* 07778 436468 frances@fhmpolo.co.uk

FHM Polo Club* 07778 436468 frances@fhmpolo.co.uk

Fifield Polo Club* 01628 620061 fifieldpoloclub@live.co.uk

Fifield Polo Club* 01628 620061 fifieldpoloclub@live.co.uk

Great Trippetts Polo Club 01428 741916 charles@trippetts.com

Great Trippetts Polo Club 01428 741916 charles@trippetts.com

Guards Polo Club* 01784 434212 polo@guardspoloclub.com

Guards Polo Club* 01784 434212 polo@guardspoloclub.com

Ham Polo Club 020 8334 0000 office@hampoloclub.com

Ham Polo Club 020 8334 0000 office@hampoloclub.com

Hertfordshire Polo Club* 01707 256023 polo@hertspolo.co.uk

Hertfordshire Polo Club* 01707 256023 polo@hertspolo.co.uk

PERFECT PEREZ

A big congratulations to Katie and Martin Perez on the arrival of their son, Santiago (Santi) Michael Perez, born on Tuesday 12 March and weighing in at 10lbs. His older sister Molly is over the moon with her little brother!

WOMEN’S

YOUTH POLO

AUSTRALIA

Victor Ludorum 2025

CLUB PHONE EMAIL

All Ireland Polo Club 00353 01 6896732 dstone@indigo.ie

All England Polo Club Hickstead* 01273 834 315 polo@hickstead.co.uk

Apsley End Polo Club* 01462 712444 tobiana.scott@gmail.com

Ash Farm Polo Club* 07799 812739 ashfarmpolo@hotmail.com

Barfold Polo Club 07778 808853 mborwick@gmail.com

Bawtry Polo Club 01302 773282 info@bawtrypoloclub.co.uk

Beaufort Polo Club 01666 880510 enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk

Beverley Polo Club* 01964 544877 info@beverleypoloclub.co.uk

Binfield Heath 01491 411969 bhpcmanager@gmail.com

Blueys Polo Club* 07930 323263 polomanager@blueyspolo.co.uk

Bramham Polo Academy 07811 993316 emmadvh@btinternet.com

Bunclody Polo Club 00353 87 6605917 info@poloclubbunclody.com

Burningfold Polo Club 01483 200722 derrek@burningfold.com

Cambridge Polo Club* 07711 217004 cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com

Cambridge County Polo Club* 01223 812922 info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk

Carlton House 07901 561113 harrietservaes@hotmail.com

Chester Racecourse Polo Club 01244 304602 amorris@chester-races.com

Cheshire Polo Club 01948 861020 info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk

Chiltern Polo Club 07973 174542 info@chilternpoloclub.com

Cirencester Park Polo Club 01285 653225 info@cirencesterpolo.co.uk

Cowdray Polo Club 01730 813257 enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk

Curraghmore Polo Club 00353 51 387102 mkennedy@cssgroup.ie

Dallas Burston Polo Club* 01926 811 111 enquiries@ixlevents.com

Dorset Polo Club 01202 623985 office@dorsetpolo.co.uk

Druids Lodge Polo Club* 01722 782597 abi@druidspolo.co.uk

Dundee and Perth Polo Club* 07831 365 194 jamesscrawford@aol.com

Eastwood Polo Club 07968 300063 frankums@googlemail.com

Edgeworth Polo Club 01285 821695 edgeworthpolo@gmail.com

Edinburgh Polo Club* 07971 072336 james.dgls@gmail.com

Emsworth Polo Grounds* 01344 883112 info@fourquarterspolo.co.uk

Epsom Polo Club* 07961 232106 epsompoloclub@hotmail.com

FHM Polo Club* 07778 436468 frances@fhmpolo.co.uk

Fifield Polo Club* 01628 620061 fifieldpoloclub@live.co.uk

Great Trippetts Polo Club 01428 741916 charles@trippetts.com

Guards Polo Club* 01784 434212 polo@guardspoloclub.com

Ham Polo Club 020 8334 0000 office@hampoloclub.com

Hertfordshire Polo Club* 01707 256023 polo@hertspolo.co.uk

Home Farm Polo Grounds 07807672120 rachaelkearnet@hotmail.co.uk

Hurtwood Polo Club 01483 272828 polo@hurtwoodparkpolo.co.uk

Kirtlington Park Polo Club 01869 350138 info@kirtlingtonparkpolo.co.uk

Knepp Castle Polo Club 07920 023639 info@aspectpolo.co.uk

Leadenham Polo Club 07429 299026 office@leadenhampoloclub.com

Longdole Polo Club* 01452 864544 info@longdolepolo.com

Moor Farm Polo Club 07494 114190 shop@moorfarmshop.co.uk

Moor Hall Farm Polo Club* 01279 450637 alecbeve@btinternet.com

New Forest Polo Club 07977 224404 annabelparryjoyner@yahoo.co.uk

Norfolk Polo Club 01508 480400 office@norfolkpolo.co.uk

Northern Ireland Polo Club 07803 020577 info@northernirelandpoloclub.co.uk

Offchurch Bury Polo Club* 07816 830887 info@offchurchburypoloclub.co.uk

Pangbourne Polo Club 07708 906810 aprice@polofix.com

Peover Polo Club 07766 016 833 polomanager@peoverpoloclub.co.uk

Polo Wicklow* 00353 404 67164 siobhan@polowicklow.com

RAF Cranwell 07739 569491 rafcranwellpoloclub@yahoo.co.uk

Ranelagh Polo Club* 01344 885697 ranelagh@labravapolo.com

RCBPC* 01344 890060 polo@rcbpc.com

RMAS Polo Club 07973 174542 rmas-nc-aci-projinters@mod.uk

Rugby Polo Club* 01788 817724 info@rugbypoloclub.com

Rutland Polo Club 07772 040668 secretary@rutlandpoloclub.co.uk

Silver Leys Polo Club 07730 060200 silverleyspoloclub@gmail.com

St. Albans Polo Club 07956 017090 info@stalbanspoloclub.co.uk

Stewarton Polo Club 07974 706045 info@stewartonpolo.co.uk

Suffolk Polo Club 07990 576974 aes3@cam.ac.uk

Sussex Polo Club* 01342 714920 info@sussexpolo.co.uk

Taunton Vale Polo Club 07771 931541 Chairman_tcvpc@btinternet.com

The HPA are seeking applicants for a new role of Polo Assistant to support two new part-time roles in the HPA, namely Head of International and High Goal Polo as well as the Head of Development and Low Goal Polo.

The role will involve providing administrative support, including organising committee meetings, creating minutes and agendas, managing data in addition to fielding queries from clubs, Managers, and players in the absence of the Heads of Polo. Good knowledge of polo in the UK is essential to this role. For more information on the role, please visit the HPA website

Marketplace

In association with Chukkout Polo

Ponies

WANTED Small pony, maximum 13hh for eight-year-old who is currently playing on her 12hh but wants to step up. Any age, must be sound (does NOT need to pass a 5 stage vetting, but not lame). Easy and straight to continue helping our daughter progress. Very experienced farm home, other ponies kept. Also want to do Pony Club and hunt (current pony does it all but very slowly). Good budget for the right pony, needs to be forward but safer and above all else kind and genuine.

Tel: 07850 209368

Transport

2004 Ford Iveco 04 Plate Iveco Solitaire 7.5t. Plated until end Feb 2025.Payload 1416kg.370,720 kms

Owned for 5 years, divorce forces sale, cruise control. Stalled for 3 - with moveable partitions. External lockers. Lots of storage in living/ full dressing mirror. Sleeps 4. Gas hob and oven. Fridge gas/electric. Hot/cold central heating. Fan in horse area. 2 rug racks in horse area, tack lockers and saddle racks and bridle hooks for 3. Water heater. Shower/toilet/sink. TV screen, leisure battery fully charged. Mains hook up cable included. Operating manuals for all living electrical/gas appliances. Carbon monoxide monitor. Fantastic lorry, easy to drive, been 100% reliable and engine been well maintained. Solid reliable lorry. Could do with a respray. £12,000. Tel: 07976 319103

2008 MAN Tristar Driven

577,211kms. Manual, 6 gear, 18 tonne, 2008, Tristar/ Man, 6/7 horse lorry with full living – double bed luton space, and sofa at the bottom that also turns into a second double bed. Hob + oven, sink, TV with DVD player, fridge, wardrobe, and cupboard space. Separate room with bathroom facilities- sink, toilet, & shower. Has hook up facility and separate living batteries to lorry. Huge locker at the front for tack space & one sealed skirt tack, one further skirt locker for boots etc on near side. Further three skirts lockers on driver’s side; one with large water tank with living water pump. Oil hydraulic ramp which is fantastic with a manual handle pump override. Ramp redone in 2020 – very solid and sound. Same owner since body new & kept inside all year round. MOT June 2024 but can get redone. No advisories last time. New Tyres and all new batteries for lorry and living. Fantastic lorry that’s been well maintained and always been totally reliable. Excellent runner. Has isolator as well. We have been all over the country with it eventing. Only for sale as downsized. Based in Suffolk. £20,000 no VAT OVNO. Tel: 07771 608376

Tilt Cab. Fresh MOT Expires March

2025. The body panels show their age in places priced in consideration of this. This lorry has been brilliant for us, reliably going up and down the country for the last four years. All the appliances work well in the living so when we go to the stay aways it has felt like a home from home with sleeping for 4 with sleeper cab bunk beds and sofa that changes into a double bed. 12.5 tonnes unladen. £16,500 ono. Tel: 07930736086

2013 DAF LF45 Fantastic Tristar

7.5T lorry partition to carry four with space at the front of the horse area for tack etc. Horse area is 13ft 6in long, 7ft 10in wide and 7ft 6in high with LED lighting. 6ft living area that can sleep four, blown hot air heater, LED lighting throughout and sink / double gas burner. 12v charging points along with 240v hook up. DAF 2013 chassis with 160,000 miles, 4.5L diesel with five speed manual gearbox, maintained by local DAF dealer with yearly safety checks and oil changes. Cab, lorry, living and horse area all extremely good, well cared for lorry both aesthetically and mechanically. MOT runs to June ‘24 but will have no issues, passed last year with no advisories. Has cruise control, electric windows and driver’s mirror. Known payload is 2,100kg but no certificate. Tyres all very good, drive away and use. £30,000. Tel: 07967 630952

Small Bale Hay Small bale hay from small holding, cut August 2023. No chemicals, pesticides etc used, unsprayed and thistle free pasture. Produced for our picky Thoroughbreds but selling some off as we have too much! Up to 50 bales available for collection from GL2 9LN. Minimum order of five bales for collection. Will deliver locally for orders of x50 bales (with a fuel cost). £5/bale. Tel: 07969 456214

Horse treat ball New and never used as my horse isn’t interested at all. Happy to deliver local to Newquay or can post for cost. £10.

Tel: 07808 736234

John Deere 4520 Compact Loader Low hours, loader, spare tyres. Year 2010. Starts, runs and drives very well. Very good turning circle and extremely capable. Tractor is faultless and has always been dry stored and well maintained. Fitted with large floatation tyres which are in good order. Loader very tight and capable of lifting a ton! Just had full main dealer service completed by Tuckwells. The tractor has wanted for nothing. Very low hours at 2,700! Pick up Hitch. 2x spools. Trailer brake valve. Full road lights. Spare set of wheels and tyres to come with it. Fitted with as new turf tyres. These cost over £1,200. A very well presented tractor ready to go straight to work! Delivery nationwide available. Any test drive or inspection welcome. Final price is plus VAT. £17, 995.

Tel: 07807 825526

1998 Iveco MP400E 18 tonne Iveco.

Seb Hancock has a plethora of wins to his name, including winning The Arena Gold Cup in 2017 when he received not only MVP but also the BPP award, as well as reaching the Finals of The Copa de Bronce and Copa de Oro Medium Goal in Sotogrande 2014. In 2017, he also won The Valerie Halford and Phoenician Cup with Oakley Court and more recently has represented England when they faced Ireland in The Inspired Arena Polo Test Match for The Bryan Morrison Trophy

What is your biggest passion and why?

I know it’s cliche to say but it has to be the horses and training them, my father used to always retrain ex-racehorses and played a lot of his career on only horses he had made, so that has always been a big passion of mine.

What is your all-time best polo memory?

Playing farm chukkas with my father, sister and friends.

Who were/are your favourite teammates?

Playing with family or any of my childhood friends like Tom Brodie, Jack Hyde or Gustav Rausing is always fun.

Hardest opponent?

Probably Paco O’Dwyer. He looks like he isn’t doing anything and somehow always ends up with the ball.

Which sports do you like outside of polo? I’ve always been a massive fan of rugby and in the past few years I’ve really enjoyed playing golf, but as most of my friends will tell you, I’m terrible!

Favourite film and why?

Gladiator. The storyline is so multifaceted and the soundtrack is unrivalled.

Favourite album?

Geography by Tom Misch.

Favourite food/dish?

Definitely sushi!

Favourite hobby outside of polo?

I really enjoy spending time with friends and family and doing anything that takes me out of polo for a little bit! It’s easier said than done!

Most prized possession?

Dennis – my four-yearold French Bulldog.

Favourite celebrity and why?

Kobe Bryant. The man’s work ethic and approach to his career was just insane.

Best holiday destination and activity?

Valencia – just to relax, go to the beach and explore, it’s really nice to take time away from the sport.

Best pony and why?

Ellerston Tuscany – my stallion that I bought from Paco O’Dwyer. He’s incredibly agile and just a hilarious horse day-to-day in the stables. You will never find him not lying down looking like he’s half dead.

Are you passionately superstitious?

I wouldn’t say so! As long as I have my pre-workout drink and I’ve cleaned my boots the night before, then I’m good to go.

Describe yourself in three words. Relaxed, lanky, motivated.

One thing which would surprise us about you? I’m half Australian!

Photograph by ©www.polotimes.co.uk

Photography by Sam Churchill