THE USPA GOLD CUP
Park Place Pip Coca-Cola in Overtime
CLUB SPOTLIGHT
Guards Polo Club Celebrates 70 Years
RCBPC ARENA GOLD CUP
Extra Chukka Win For Tchogan Polo Performance
PLUS: Isidro Strada’s Passions, Cambiaso’s 10th C.V. Whitney’s Cup & TWW Yachts
Evident botanicals make for a well rounded gin with fabulous complexity. The balance marks it out for universal purpose… it simply tastes great GREAT TASTE
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Spicy and smooth, this organic gin has strong cardamon notes. Makes a great gin and tonic THE TIMES, 25 AUGUST2018
AUGUST 2018
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.
TELEGRAPH VERDICT
Contributors: Andrew Drummond Moray, Lorna Edgar, Gill Glimmerveen, Dr.med. Andreas Krüger, Ramirez/ ©www.imagesofpolo.com, Kat Seeman, Geoff Soper, Paul Stalker Contact
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As this April issue of Polo Times lands on doormats, the US polo season is at its apex, with the 22 goal Gauntlet of Polo and 26 World Polo League both well underway. The front cover and lead story reports on Andrey Borodin’s Park Place team taking top spot on the podium in the USPA’s 22 goal Gold Cup and with his win, $75,000 prize-money. Not only was winning The USPA Gold Cup a first for Borodin, but it was also for 19-year-old Brit Louis Hine, who were teamed up with Peke Gonzalez and Hilario Ulloa, with the latter maintaining 100% accuracy on his penalty-taking – and that’s why he is 10 goals!
This gripping Final was edge of the seat polo, where on the day, all four Park Place teammates gelled and convincingly outplayed their opposition, Coca Cola, in all four positions – and for those of us on the wrong side of the pond, all games were live-streamed from the USPA’s National Polo Center at Wellington. The new ‘no blocking’ rule was efficiently and rigorously policed, which made for clean open flowing polo. With both the AAP and USPA having already embraced this rule, many teams are asking when, (rather than if) it will be introduced in the UK – their primary concern should the UK not do so, being it will undoubtedly lead to confusion for players on the international circuit, if the UK rules are not aligned with those of the AAP and USPA.
Meanwhile, back home, spring has officially begun with the hottest day of the year so far with horses across the country already fit for the upcoming season which begins in just a couple of weeks. 2025 is an important year for Guards Polo Club which celebrates its 70th anniversary and is fittingly therefore this month’s Club Spotlight. Plus, there is plenty of food for thought in the Knowledge pages with Raise Polo’s Winning Mindset, Lorna Edgar’s tips on Prepping to Travel & Play and Polodoc’s insights into brain mapping.
This month’s feature on TWW Yachts is certainly an article to read on those last few cold nights, with their array of stunning super yachts available for charter – yes please! It is also fantastic to have the support of fashion brand, MR MARVIS, whose clothing is perfect for any occasion, being equally at home on the yacht, as it is on the sidelines at polo. With those rays streaming through and temperatures nudging an unseasonably warm 17 degrees, it is now time to go out for that ride.
As always, keep well and play safe
Nick Hine
Both the Argentine Polo Association (AAP) and United States Polo Association (USPA) have introduced a new no blocking rule. The AAP has introduced a blocking rule in the Copa República Argentina, which will be fully implemented starting in April in all tournaments in Argentina:
When the ball is dead, whether on knock ins, fouls, or sideline throws, the opposing player who is going to mark the person who is going to put the ball into play cannot be marked or blocked by anyone, not even the person who puts the ball into play.
When a block occurs, a foul will be awarded to the team involved, except in the case of a block on an exit from the goal, in which case a 60-yard penalty will be awarded.
At all other times, when a player in possession of the ball stops or reduces his speed to a slow canter or walk, no teammate of the player in possession may block or impede a defending player who is within two horse lengths of the player with the ball from making a play on that player or the ball.
When an offensive player improperly blocks a defensive player, the referees will penalize and award the appropriate penalty. Improper blocking may or may not constitute dangerous riding.
If a violation of this rule is called and not upheld, the team in possession of the ball when the foul was called will be awarded a Fair Play.
An improper block can occur even if there is no contact between the blocker and the defensive player attempting to guard the blocker’s teammate who has a play on the ball.
This mirrors the USPA’s stance on blocking (Rule 26A Improper Blocking), which is already being fully implemented across the pond.
Polo Times contacted the Hurlingham Polo Association for a comment and the HPA replied with the below:
“The HPA Rules Committee are watching the implementation of the new rule in the USA and our Chief Umpire, Pete Wright, is planning to watch a number of games at the US Open in person to understand the impact of the rule. A meeting will then take place to discuss whether further steps will be taken in the UK.
We have already added a line in our 2025 rules as below, this is to emphasise that blocking as such is not allowed and only a legitimate ride off is acceptable.
31. RIDING OFF. A player may ride off an opponent provided that the ponies are travelling at the same speed, are shoulder to shoulder and come together at a safe angle. Any contact between ponies that is not a legitimate ride off is not allowed.When riding off, the elbow must be kept close to the side and a player may not push with the head, hand, arm, or elbow another player”
The Beaufort International will see two international matches for The Golden Jubilee and The Buckmaster Trophy. The Golden Jubilee will be a 16 goal match between England and USA – the trophy was first presented in 2002 by Queen Elizabeth II to celebrate her Golden Jubilee; and The Buckmaster Trophy will see a Young England team compete against a side yet to be announced.
Tickets are now on sale for the day, the picnic spots and field side gazebos are now sold out but there are still general admission and grandstand seating available via the Club’s website.
Save the date for the 2025 Cheltonian Society Polo Day which will take place at Cirencester Park Polo Club on Sunday 1 June. The day will include two polo matches, retail stands, a horsebox bar, hot food as well as access to the Clubhouse bar and Pavilion restaurant which is under new management. Plus, a prize for the best picnic!
The NPC 16-Goal Championship (Wellington Polo Tour) includes four national tournaments (Joe Barry Memorial, Ylvisaker Cup, Iglehart Cup and Outback Cup) played across South Florida which then culminate in the Championship Final at NPC on Sunday 13 April.
The Iglehart Cup is the third tournament to be played and saw 15 teams competing. Los Machitos El Refugio and Copperline Farms qualified for the Final at Patagones Polo Club on Saturday 15 March.
Los Machitos El Refugio had a strong start and led until the end of the fourth chukka which they led 7-4, however the tide turned in the fifth chukka with a huge comeback from Copperline Farms who managed to first tie the score, 8-8, and then in the sixth chukka not only held their opponents goalless but added four goals to their tally to take the win 12-8. Lucas Criado Jr. received the Most Valuable Player Award and LAC Sarah, played by Criado Jr. was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.
On Friday 30 May, Oxford Polo will be hosting the third edition of the NRG Podcast Live event at 5pm. The evening will include a tack fitting and bitting masterclass by Ross Ainsley from Ainsley Saddlery, a tactics session by Glen Gilmore and Nick May providing his usual witticism, plus a bar and food will be available. Entry is £10 per person for pre-booking and £15 on the day, with proceeds going to Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Tickets are available via Oxford Polo’s website.
The fourth leg of the series is The Outback Cup which will be played over 18 March – 6 April.
The Iglehart Cup Final Teams: Copperline Farms (16): Ben Ketchum (0), Pipe Vercellino (7), Lucas Criado Jr. (7) & Joao Pedro Aranha (2) Los Machitos El Refugio (16): Martín Vélez (2), Antonio Aguerre (3), Victorino Ruiz Jorba (7) & Jota Chavanne (5)
The New South Wales Polo Association (NSWPA) has introduced the Standing Rock Fair Play Award across its three autumn high goal tournaments. The Award will be presented to the team that demonstrates superior sportsmanship and horse welfare standards during the Kerry Packer Challenge Cup (Ellerston Polo Club, Ellerston), the Mulhall Memorial Trophy (Garangula Polo Club, Harden), and the Morton Cup (Windsor Polo Club, Richmond). Since its inauguration in 2024, the Standing Rock Fair Play Award has grown internationally by partnering with more polo clubs around the world partnering with the HPA through the Victor Ludorum series in England and at Chantilly Polo Club in France; by the New Zealand Polo Association during the New Zealand Open; and most recently by the New South Wales Polo Association in Australia. The collaboration between NSWPA and Standing Rock will see the Standing Rock Fair Play Award be a perpetual trophy competed for annually, encouraging values of camaraderie and respect between teams and players on and off the field, as well as setting an example to promote the highest standards of horse welfare in polo.
Andrew Drummond Moray remembers his uncle:
As his family and friends gathered to pay tribute to Bill Drummond Moray at Fowlis Wester Church in Perthshire last month, his lifelong friend and former team-mate David Gemmell read out a passage from the iconic poem, The Geebung Polo Club. This struck a chord with many of the Scottish polo stalwarts in the congregation who perhaps recognised themselves as the wiry natives who had “mighty little science but a mighty lot of dash”. However, Bill while having a lot of dash was remembered as a true gentleman of the sport (more of a hybrid of the Geebung Polo Team from the poem and their “Cuff and Collar” opposition, for the purists). As a young man, having graduated from Cirencester Agricultural College, he famously pitched up on his first day as an unpaid Jackeroo, at Mogila Sheep Station, Godooga, New South Wales, wearing an immaculate suit and Old Etonian tie. This was his style, true to himself and unaffected by the modern norms of society. In his last
few games in the 2000s, he donned his same skin-tight breeches and wafer-thin cigar head sticks, playing at number 4 with a certain style and grace that only true gents of his generation possessed. After all, he had played all over the world including Kenya, Brunei and Malaysia. He also represented Scotland at the European Championships in 1980, alongside Gemmell, Ronald Ferguson and Dougal Long, recording a memorable win against Germany (containing a certain Alan Kent), evidence of which is proudly displayed in the guest loo at Bill’s home, Abercairny. His sister-in-law Iona recounted how their lorry famously broke down on the way to a practice in Windsor, to the amusement of the locals. He was a family man, husband to Emma and father of Anna, Frances, Georgy and Caroline, also playing for the Abercairny team with his brothers John and David throughout the 70s, 80s and 90s at the Dundee & Perth Polo Club. The Club, founded by Mervyn Fox-Pitt, as well as
Hugo the Miniature Pony Visits Thames Hospice
Dear Editor
On Wednesday 19 February we took our little five-year-old rescue miniature pony to the Thames Hospice.
It was a day filled with emotion, connection and the healing power of horses. We had the privilege of visiting Thames Hospice with our little miniature pony, Hugo, spending three hours bringing joy, comfort and a little bit of magic to patients and their families.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear how much Hugo’s presence meant to everyone. The children, in particular, were captivated by him. In the midst of their families’ struggles, they found a moment of happiness, laughing as they stroked his soft coat and fed him treats.
Among the many touching encounters, we met some incredibly strong women – wives and mothers who are holding everything together while their husbands battle serious illness. Their resilience was humbling. For a few moments, Hugo allowed them to step away from their worries, even just briefly, as they watched their children’s faces light up with joy.
One of the most moving visits was to a
very sick lady who had once been a horse rider. Though too weak to lift her head, she reached out to Hugo, gently stroking him, savouring the warmth and familiar feel of a horse’s coat. Afterwards, she brought her hand to her nose, closing her eyes as she breathed in the scent of Hugo – transported back to a time when horses were a part of her everyday life. “That smell,” she whispered, “it makes everything feel better.” Hugo stood quietly beside her bed, his presence radiating a calming energy. She offered him treats with a trembling hand, smiling despite her pain. In that moment, there were no words needed – just the
the Drummond Morays and many friends, is like its members: very well traveled, having migrated from Dundee Airfield to The Grange in Fife, Scone Palace and finally Errol. With his daughter Georgy (now Armitage) taking over the Abercairny Polo Team alongside her husband Tom and Bill’s nephews Andrew and Jamie, (to be witnessed at a polo club near you), let’s hope they will play with plenty of science, mighty amounts of dash and a wee bit of Bill’s style and grace!
unspoken bond between a horse lover and the animal she so dearly missed.
Hospice care is a place of deep reflection, where time becomes precious and small moments mean everything. Today, Hugo brought more than just his tiny hooves and fluffy mane – he brought companionship, warmth, and a brief escape from pain and worry.
As we left, we knew that today had been special. It wasn’t just about visiting; it was about connection, about love, and about the incredible way that horses, even the smallest ones, have the power to heal hearts.
We look forward to returning, knowing that Hugo has found his place as a tiny beacon of comfort in a place where kindness matters most.
Thames Hospice is a free service and always needs funds, so if you have a small amount to donate, we would like to continue visiting every week and raising money for this necessary cause that gets very little funding from the government. The below QR code is a direct donation account to the Thames hospice.
Thank you ��
Kim Sherman White Waltham Polo Club
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Miniature bottles of British Polo Gin
Customised bottles to commemorate your big day
Cocktail Masterclasses, Polo Days Out at the UK’s leading Polo Clubs
Gourmet seasonal dishes, locally ethically sourced (BBQ, buffet etc)
Connecting you with more than just the sea
Yachts
At TWW Yachts, their passion for creating unforgettable experiences extends beyond the water.
TWW Yachts’ recent sponsorship of The 40th Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz exemplifies their commitment to offering more than just exceptional yachting services. It offers an exciting opportunity to connect with new clients and strengthen relationships with existing ones by introducing them to a thrilling winter sport on the picturesque frozen lake of St. Moritz
TWW Yachts’ introduction to the world of polo was inspired by longstanding relationships with clients who have become like family. Through these trusted connections, the company was welcomed into the snow polo community, where the elegance of the sport reflects the luxury lifestyle it promotes. The St. Moritz Snow Polo World Cup, renowned for its breathtaking alpine backdrop and distinguished guests, provided the perfect setting for TWW Yachts to showcase not only its expertise in luxury yachting but also its ability to offer bespoke, memorable experiences beyond the water.
As a sponsor, TWW Yachts was delighted to present its services at the heart of the event, welcoming guests into a yachting-inspired stand.
Whether planning a last-minute winter escape or a bespoke summer itinerary for you and the family, TWW Yachts offers expert advice and personalised planning for each journey.
With access to the global fleet of superyachts, the company is well-placed to provide tailored recommendations that ensure every aspect of your holiday is crafted to perfection.
Its bespoke approach to chartering goes beyond simply booking a yacht. They offer invaluable insights into both popular and hidden destinations, yacht specifics and crew profiles, ensuring that each client’s voyage is unique and unforgettable. This attention to detail and personalised service is what sets TWW Yachts apart in the industry.
For loyal clients, snow polo in St. Moritz was a new and exciting way to experience the luxury lifestyle they know so well, and TWW Yachts was thrilled to offer them the opportunity to broaden their horizons with something entirely different.
Whether on land or at sea, TWW Yatchs are proud to be the trusted partner that ensures every journey, event, and experience is executed flawlessly.
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Scan
Fifth Arena Gold Cup victory secured
The 2025 Arena Gold Cup at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club (RCBPC) attracted a full crowd, with a sold-out grandstand and 200 attendees at the After Party. This year’s tournament marked the 29th edition of the event.
In a closely contested Final, Tchogan Polo Performance defeated Hedonism 19-18 with a golden goal in an extra chukka, setting a new record with their fifth Arena Gold Cup title. Both teams played with skill and determination, keeping spectators engaged throughout. Jack Hyde stood out for Hedonism, scoring 14 of his team’s 18 goals. However, it was Will Emerson who secured the win for Tchogan with a golden goal in the extra chukka.
In The Silver Cup, Twyford Polo Club claimed victory with a 21-18 win over Red Star. Twyford mounted an impressive comeback, scoring 11 of their 21 goals in the final chukka, making for an exciting finish. To read more about The Ladies British Open, please turn to the Women’s Polo pages
Gauntlet of Polo well underway at NPC
“Mistakes like that against Cambiaso are going to cost you a lot”
Polito Pieres
La Dolfina/Tamera (22)
Adolfo Cambiaso (10)
Alejandro Poma (1)
Diego Cavanagh (7)
Matt Coppola (4)
The C.V. Whitney Cup was first played for in 1979, as The U.S. Handicap alongside The U.S. Open Polo Championship. The tournament was renamed in 1988 after C.V. (Cornelius Vanderbilt ‘Sonny’) Whitney who won The U.S. Open three times (in 1928, 1937 and 1938).
The C.V. Whitney Cup is now played as the first tournament in the USPA’s Gauntlet of Polo with 11 teams competing this year and the Final was played between Coca-Cola and La Dolfina/ Tamera. Neither team’s journey to the Final had been unbeaten, highlighting the strength of the teams – La Dolfina/Tamera’s patron Alejandro Poma commented, “Every team in the Gauntlet is really good. We take everyone very seriously. I have the utmost respect for every organisation. We didn’t come in doubting anybody.” Crowds filled the stands at the National Polo Center to watch an exciting clash between the two sides who had met in the opening stage of the tournament where Coca-Cola had beaten La Dolfina/Tamera 17-13; would the Final be the same result or would Adolfo Cambiaso be celebrating his tenth C.V. Whitney Cup title at the end of the day?
Despite an opening goal from Julian de Lusarreta’s and an additional goal from Gillian Johnston, Coca-Cola had a shaky start. Meanwhile, La Dolfina/Tamera capitalised on penalty opportunities, building a 6-2 lead by the end of the second chukka with three conversions; as Polito Pieres identified, “We made some fouls – mistakes like that against Cambiaso are going to cost you a lot.”
By half-time, Coca-Cola had managed to close the gap to 6-5 and by the start of the fifth chukka, the teams were tied 7-7, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats.
Coca-Cola (22)
Gillian Johnston (0)
Julian de Lusarreta (7)
Lorenzo Chavanne (6)
Polito Pieres (9)
Chukka scores: 2-2, 6-2, 6-5, 7-7, 10-7, 11-10 to La Dolfina/Tamera Where:
“I have the utmost respect for every organisation. We didn’t come in doubting anybody”
Alejandro Poma
La Dolfina/Tamera went on the offensive as Cambiaso rode out on Dolfina Carola, last year’s C.V. Whitney Cup Best Playing Pony, who went on to secure the award again this year. The seven-yearold bay mare, Dolfina Carola (Dolfina Guitarrero x Carla) has really stepped up this year as Adolfo Cambiaso explained, “She’s been one of my best mares this season. Last year she was a bit green and this year she made a step up to be a really good horse. She’s really well bred. She’s out of Carla, which is one of my best mares that I bought from Roberto Gonzalez, and Dolfina Guitarrero, which is one
of my best stallions right now.” With Cambiaso and Dolfina Carola combining together perfectly, Coca-Cola remained scoreless as La Dolfina/Tamera pulled ahead 10-7 heading into the final chukka. A surge of three consecutive goals brought Coca-Cola back into contention in the final chukka, but a penalty gave La Dolfina/Tamera an 11-10 advantage. In the closing seconds, Coca-Cola had a chance to equalise and push the Final into overtime with a spot hit, but the ball sailed wide and La Dolfina/Tamera ran out the winners. For Poma this was his first win, whilst Cambiaso celebrated his tenth C.V. Whitney
Cup title and Matt Coppola secured his third C.V. Whitney Cup title, having first won it at the age of 16 in 2011 with Lechuza Caracas.
For Cambiaso, this year’s C.V. Whitney Cup victory was bittersweet. “In a way, for me, it’s a very happy and a very sad moment. Last year I won with Bob Jornayvaz [and Valiente] and he’s not here right now. He’s fighting for his life and he’s like my friend, my father, and is a guy who is really important to me. I miss him and give thanks to Tamera for giving me the opportunity to play with them. But for me, it’s a year that is not that easy.”
The Dubai Open Gold Cup 2025 Final was an exciting showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Jehangiri Polo, the newcomers to The Dubai Gold Cup, had no easy task ahead as they faced off against UAE Polo, the five-time champions of the tournament.
From the very first chukka, Jehangiri came out strong, but it was Lukin Monteverde who took charge early on, setting the stage with a penalty shot that gave UAE Polo the first goal. However, Alejandro Muzzio quickly fired back, equalising for Jehangiri Polo and igniting the battle. As the second chukka unfolded, Monteverde once again brought UAE Polo level, but Teo Lacau wasted no time in pushing them ahead. The excitement didn’t stop there as Muzzio struck again, bringing the scores neck and neck. The intensity carried into the third chukka, with Santos Iriarte breaking through to put Jehangiri Polo in the lead.
Just when it seemed like Jehangiri had the upper hand, Rosendo Torreguitar delivered a magnificent play, levelling the score once again for UAE Polo. However, in the fourth chukka, a pivotal moment occurred when Benjamín Panelo subbed in for Alejandro Muzzio, who was unable to continue due to the pain caused by a heavy fall in the Semi
Where: Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Dubai 23 FEB FINAL 5 FEB
Final. UAE Polo seized the opportunity to take the reins and although Jehangiri Polo tried to make a comeback in the last minutes of play, the deal was sealed. Luck was on HH Sheikha Maitha’s team, who claimed a narrow 9-8 victory and captured The Dubai Gold Cup for the sixth time.
UAE Polo (20)
HH Sheikha Maitha (0)
Lukin Monteverde (7)
Rosendo Torreguitar (6)
Teo Lacau (7)
Jehangiri (20)
Muhammad Jehangiri (0)
Santos Iriarte (3)
Alejandro Muzzio (8) (substituted by Benjamin Panlo in fourth chukka) Gonzalito Pieres (9)
by
Second WPL title of 2025
On Sunday 2 March, Casablanca secured their second 2025 World Polo League (WPL) title, having already won The All-Star Challenge Riemenschneider Memorial (see March issue of Polo Times) with a 14-12 win against Alegria in The Founders Cup.
In a hard-fought Final, the evenly-matched teams exchanged the lead 11 times before Casablanca broke an 11-11 deadlock in the sixth chukka. With three minutes of playing remaining, Bensadon navigated through a cluster of players to score, putting his team ahead 12-11.
All of the results from New Zealand’s oldest tournament
The Savile Cup, the oldest team sporting trophy in New Zealand, concluded on Sunday 2 March with a busy day of action at Glenmark Polo, Omihi. In 1890
Major R.D. (then Captain) Savile presented the trophy to be played annually by polo clubs in New Zealand, and the New Zealand Polo Association has managed the tournament since 1891 and this year the tournament was played at Glenmark Polo. The Savile Cup was won by Rangitikei who convincingly beat Christchurch Blue 8-4.
Rangitikei
Harriet McKelvie
Mark Duncan Ollie Jones
Angus McKelvie
Rangitikei, winners of the 2025 Savile Cup
Christchurch Blue
Pete Dormer
Sam Martin
Ollie Cudmore
Max Dormer
Allan Bros Cup Champion Pony: Smudge, played by Sam Martin
BPP Retrained Racehorse: Smudge, played by Sam Martin
Champion String of Ponies (McKelvie Trophy): Angus McKelvie
Auckland Cup: Angus McKelvie
Where: Glenmark Polo Club, South Island, New Zealand
The Wilson Cup
(Presented to NZ Polo Association in 1976 by J.H.G Wilson for intermediate competition)
Christchurch Red (George Cooper-Dixon, Cody Jones, Andrew Messervy and Ben Malasomma) beat Port Hills A (Brett Harris, Lachie Appleby, Oscar Power and James Reid) 4-2.
The Stead Trophy (the Handicap trophy of The Wilson Cup) was won by Hawkes Bay A who beat South Canterbury A, 6½-4.
MVP – Cody Jones
Fair Play Award – Dean Fullerton
BPP – Oana, played by Lachie Appleby and owned by Dean Geddes
BPP Retrained Racehorse – George Cooper-Dixon’s Syrup
The Riddiford & Levin Cup
(Presented by DHS Riddiford and M.C. & R.L. Levin for the junior competition)
Amuri A (Augustin Cinti, James Burrows, Bryan Burrows and Sam Burrows) beat Hawkes Bay B (Wilbur Coates, Pete Hyslop, Herbie Coates and Ben Finney) 6-5.
The Klaus Cup (the Handicap trophy of The Riddiford & Levin) was won by Christchurch Royal Blue who beat Christchurch Teal, 7-5.
MVP – Herbie Coates
Fair Play Award – Ange Norrie
BPP (Dick Black Trophy) – Ben Finney’s Swung
BPP Retrained Racehorse – Ange Norrie’s Pippa
Most Promising Player (Prince of Wales Cup) – Lachie Appleby
Most Promising -1/-2 Player (Wood Trophy) – Andrew Messervy
Best Call (Sholto Matthews Cup) – Alice Butterick
Groom Award – Eli Trahorsch
STRATEGIC SHIPPING has announced a new partnership with the Armed Forces Equine Charity to enhance the Polo Initiative, which aims to provide vital support and recreational opportunities for the military community. This collaboration is set to empower the physical and mental fitness of all members of the Armed Forces.
Founded in 2019, the Armed Forces Equine Charity is dedicated to offering sport and recreational facilities tailored for the local community. Based in Tedworth, an area with a rich history in polo since 1907, the Charity
organises events like the annual Rundle Cup between the Army and Navy. Their mission focuses on improving the resilience and fitness of Armed Forces members, acknowledging the lasting impact of military service. By utilising the unique bond between humans and horses, their active recovery and rehabilitation programs aim to create transformative experiences for participants.
Peter O’Rorke, founder of Strategic Shipping, has been a longstanding supporter of the Para-Polo squad, which comprises ex-servicemen and women. Through this
partnership, funding will be directed toward developing a more structured and targeted approach to the Polo Initiative, allowing more individuals to experience the thrill of the game while benefiting from its healing properties.
Additionally, Strategic Shipping’s own polo team will be participating in upcoming matches at Cowdray and other clubs, showcasing new colours that reflect their connection to the Armed Forces Equine Charity. Team members are available to share insights about the initiative and ways to get involved.
“This year, the team clicked, the horses performed at their best, and I’m just so proud of everyone who’s worked so hard to make it happen”
MAR23FINAL 27 FEB
Overtime thriller at NPC
“We clicked well early on and we got better and better every game getting to know each other”
Louis
Hine
Coca-Cola (22)
Gillian Johnston (0)
Julián de Lusarreta (7)
Lorenzo Chavanne (6)
Polito Pieres (9)
Park Place (22)
Andrey Borodin (0)
Hilario Ulloa (10)
Peke Gonzalez Jr. (7)
Louis Hine (5)
Chukka scores: 1-3, 6-3, 7-5, 7-6, 8-7, 9-9, 10-9 to Park Place
The USPA Gold Cup was first played in 1974 and now as the second leg of The Gauntlet of Polo is one of the most sought-after titles in America. This year saw strong competition with some of the top names in polo competing for a place in the Final, including 10 goalers Jeta Castagnola whose Brookshire side were beaten by Coca-Cola in the Semi Finals and Poroto Cambiaso (winner of The USPA Gold Cup in 2023 and 2024) whose La Dolfina/Catamount were beaten by Park Place in the Semi Finals.
So, after some very strong qualifying rounds, Coca-Cola and Park Place met on Field One at the National Polo Center in Wellington on Sunday 23 March in front of packed-out crowds, the air full of anticipation for an exhilarating Final which was also the first Gauntlet Final since 2022 to not include a Cambiaso. For Coca-Cola, this was their second 2025 Gauntlet of Polo Final, having been pipped to the post by La Dolfina/Tamera in The C.V. Whitney Cup by just one goal last month.
Coca-Cola, featuring the only female player in the competition – Gillian Johnston, got off to a strong start outscoring Park Place 3-1 in the opening chukka. Park Place found their free-flowing form, which had so delighted spectators in the Quarter and Semi Finals, in the second chukka, and by half-time had managed to build a two goal lead, 7-5. In the first three chukkas, Coca-Cola conceded seven penalties, while Park Place only gave away two and with Hilario Ulloa on a conversion form of 100 percent throughout the tournament, these unforced errors put Coca-Cola at a disadvantage.
The Sunday Finals at NPC always have a slightly longer half-time break to allow for the large crowds to tread in, as USPA Polo Network livestream commentators Toby Wayman, Tommy Biddle and guest commentator Facundo Pieres remarked, “What’s going to be interesting to see… is which team gets a little cold and which team comes out firing, the first three or four minutes of the second half are very important because they set the tone”; and CocaCola indeed found form at half-time, managing to reduce the deficit to just one goal going into the fifth chukka. After the match, Peke Gonzalez (who won the tournament in 2021 with Scone Polo Team) commented, “I think Coca-Cola came [out] really strong in the second half in the fourth and the fifth chukka as well and then it was anybody’s game”.
The fifth and sixth chukkas had everyone on the edge of their seats as both sides fought hard for possession and exchanged the lead in an electric battle. The sixth chukka began with Park Place in the lead by one goal, 8-7, so all they needed to do was maintain and, if possible build upon this lead, whilst the clock ran down. For the first few minutes of the sixth, this game plan worked for Park Place as they extended their lead to 9-7 with Gonzalez scoring a fantastic angled shot. With two minutes left on the clock, Polito Pieres scored to bring Coca-Cola within one goal again – could they score the equaliser this late in the game was on everyone’s lips? Going into crunch time, Coca-Cola received a penalty 2 which Pieres had no difficulty converting to draw the match 9-9 and push it into over-time.
Park Place’s Louis Hine, who had performed excellently throughout the tournament, especially with his angle defying nearside shots, picked up the ball and ran to goal to secure his team its win. Coca-Cola had other plans and defended hard, but in doing so, the team in the red shirts blocked Hine’s right of way and the whistle blew; the ensuing penalty was coolly converted by Ulloa, maintaining his 100% penalty taking score rate in the tournament. The fact that such an exhilarating Final was decided by a penalty shot, only goes to show the intensity of the game.
The Park Place supporters broke into celebration as the ball sailed through the posts, for Ulloa. This was his second USPA Gold Cup win (he also won in 2010 with Crab Orchard) and also Gonzalez’s second title (2021 with Scone), while for Hine and Andrey Borodin it was their first USPA Gold Cup title, much to the delight of their friends and family on the sidelines. For the Hine family, Louis’ win added to his sister Milly’s win in The Women’s U.S. Open Final in February and highlighted the strength of young,
English polo talent. After the match Hine commented, “I was lucky that we clicked well early on and we got better and better every game as we got to know each other… this is my first year playing the high goal in the U.S., so to get to the Final and manage to win is amazing – it’s a dream come true”. Ulloa also highlighted the team’s unity and the strength of the Park Place organisation working behind the scenes, “It’s huge – because it’s not just about a win,” he shared. “It’s everything Park Place has been working towards for years…
When you have the horses, the right people, and you build a good group around you – grooms, farriers, vets, trainers – and it all comes together, it means everything. This year, the team clicked, the horses performed at their best, and I’m just so proud of everyone who’s worked so hard to make it happen.”
The win was additionally special for Park Place as they played in memory of Rufino Laulhé who was about to begin his first season on Palm Beach with Park Place before the 15-year-old tragically lost his life in a car crash in January. Park Place’s Captain, Ulloa, spoke movingly after the match,
“I want to honour Rufo Lauhlé today,” Ulloa said. “We had a tough start of the season. I wish he would have been here. Louis did an amazing job, but this Final has been very emotional due to what happened. Today we were with five guys on the field, probably he was around and he helped us.”
Park Place Win The USPA Gold Cup Final
Sunday 23 March 2025
National Polo Center in Wellington
THANK YOU FROM PARK PLACE TO EVERYONE INVOLVED AT THE USPA & NATIONAL POLO CENTER, WELLINGTON AND TO EVERYBODY IN THE PARK PLACE ORGANISATION FOR ACHIEVING THIS WIN
On Sunday 9 March, Bhansali Polo edged out Ankora-Lamar Polo in a closely contested Dubai Challenge Cup Final. The match remained tight throughout, with both teams displaying strong defence and persistent attacks.
Gonzalo Santamarina led Bhansali Polo’s efforts with key goals, while Tomas Iriarte kept Ankora-Lamar Polo in contention. Despite the pressure, Bhansali Polo held firm to secure their second consecutive title by just half a goal, 5-4½.
Santamarina was named Most Valuable Player and Dona Sofia, owned by Khalid Al Omran and played by Santos Iriarte, won Best Playing Pony.
The APHC March League Final was played between Habtoor Polo and Jehangiri-PBS, with Habtoor Polo setting a fast pace and keeping Jehangiri-PBS on the defensive. Despite strong efforts from Jehangiri-PBS to get back into the game, Habtoor Polo secured a narrow 7-6 win to take the title. Lian Romeo Karger was chosen as the Most Valuable Player and Cicatriz, owned and ridden by Mohammed Al Habtoor, was the Best Playing Pony.
The Dubai Challenge Cup Final Teams:
Bhansali Polo (9): Rishi Bhansali (0), Manuel Perez (2), Gonzalo Santamarina (5) & Ariel Ponzi (2)
Ankora-Lamar Polo (9): Ryyan Al Ajaji (0), Khalid Alomran (0), Santos Iriarte (3) & Chulo Guerrero (6)
On Saturday 22 February, The Emaar Polo Cup concluded with a Final between Noon Polo Team and Bin Drai Polo Team which saw Noon Polo Team take the win and the AED 80,000 winner’s prize.
Cheshire Polo Club has announced a new address for the upcoming season, all correspondence should now be sent to: Cheshire Polo Club, The Polo Office, 8 Blackhams Way, Newton-By-Tattenhall, Chester CH3 9FR.
Quite on Z continued to dominate the 8 goal at Grand Champions on Friday 7 March with a 12-8 win against Tuff Rider in The Top-Pony 8 Goal Final.
16-year-old Artemio Figueras received both the Most Valuable Player Award as well as the Best Playing Pony honours for Snap Chat.
On Tuesday 11 March, Quite on Z secured The USPA Bronze Trophy 12 Goal with a convincing 11-5 win against Globalport in the Final following their undefeated tournament run. 25-year-old Hilario Figueras secured the Most Valuable Player Award and his mare, Malvon, was chosen as the American Polo Horse Association Best Playing Pony. Egipcia, owned and played by Joaquin Panelo, was the Grand Champions Best Playing Pony.
On Sunday 16 March, Globalport narrowly defeated defending champions Maltese Falcons 12-11 in The Sterling Cup Final. Barto Castagnola had an impressive performance with 11 goals including the game-winning goal, rightly securing him the Most Valuable Player Award. Catwoman, played by Gonzalito Pieres, was the Best Playing Pony.
On Sunday 2 March, Red River Polo secured The 2025 National Arena Bronze Cup at Legends Polo Club in Texas. The tournament was played over two weekends and the Final was between Red River Polo and Diamond Y. Despite a three goal handicap advantage to Diamond Y, Red River Polo secured a 15-8 victory; Emrey Owen was named Most Valuable Player and Owen’s Sportscenter was chosen as Best Playing Pony.
The 2025 National Arena Bronze Cup Final Teams: Red River Polo: Brooke Burke, James Glew, Eric Brown & substitute Birdie Brush
Diamond Y: Emrey Owen, Ashley Owen, Ulysses Escapite Jr. & substitute Kate Bitnerowska
The Top-Pony 8 Goal Final Teams:
Quite on Z (8): Alecia Seidler (-1), Artemio Figueras (2), Joao Pedro Souza (2) & Hilario Figueras (5)
Tuff Rider (8): Benjamin Obregon (0), Timmy Sharma (0), Agustin Obregon (5) & Nico Eurnekian (3)
The USPA Bronze Trophy Final Teams:
Quite on Z (12): Pablito Falabella (-1), Artemio Figueras (2), Joaquin Panelo (6) & Hilario Figueras (5)
Globalport (12): Mikee Romero (0), Jack Whitman (2), Beltran Laulhé (6) & Anthony Garcia (4)
The Sterling Cup Final Teams:
Globalport (22): Stephanie Lueders (0), Lucas Diaz Alberdi/ Mariano Obregon (6), Beltran Lauhle (6) & Barto Castagnola (10)
Maltese Falcons (22): Melissa Ganzi (0), Nic Roldan (7), Gonzalito Pieres (8) & Santi Toccalino (7)
On Wednesday 12 March, fresh from their successes at SUPA, the Exeter and Bath university students had fun in the sun at The Easter Bunny Tournament at Druids Lodge.
Mixed teams played for a lot of Lindt chocolate, with Lambs (Bea French, Lauren Keetly, Molly Bradley and Liam Pfohe) beating the Chicks in the Final. Congratulations to Lauren Keetley as Most Improved Beginner, and Ludivine Braun as Most Improved Non Beginner /Intermediate. The Club expressed many thanks to Robin and Giles Ormerod for coaching and umpiring, Lottie Harper for her last tournament as retiring President of Exeter Uni Polo and the Druids Lodge ponies and grooms.
The Club’s Ibiza Night will return once again on Saturday 19 July and this year with a neon theme for the first time. With 90s and 00s dance music from The Back 2 Back Vinyl DJs –Mark Hobbs and Simon Horn.
The Club will kick off the 2025 season with their Pre-Season Cocktail Reception on Friday 11 April. Tickets start at £15 for Members with the evening providing the perfect opportunity to catch up after the long winter.
Heather Walton reports
With its thrilling mix of speed, skill and sunshine, it’s a yearly event you don’t want to miss. This year’s trophy was in memory of Mickey Moseley who first took a team to Barbados some 50 years ago and started the tradition of the tour with Sir Charles Williams.
Played over three matches Cheshire Polo Club took on Barbados Polo Club in fiercely competitive games and came away with a clean sweep winning all three matches.
Playing Members representing Cheshire this year were Charlie Walton (Captain), Lucy Coddington, Henry Smith, Tim Rose, Steve Jones, Katie Jenkinson, Nico and Lolo Fontanarrosa.
Charlie Walton reflected on the series and credited his team’s success to an understanding of each other’s play, patience and resilience when up against strong teams. He would like to thank all the players who played and made this tour so memorable. Also worthy of a mention are the amount of Cheshire supporters
who showed up for every game in their red shirts cheering on the team, providing a huge boost to the players and adding to the excitement of the tour.
The Final played in front of a large crowd at the Holders Ground was incredibly close, packed with end-to-end action and brilliant goals, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats with the winner only determined in the final seconds. Cheshire came together as a strong organised side and worked seamlessly to secure a 5-4 victory.
Club Stats
Clubhouse
Pony Hire (+ number of ponies available) No Wooden Horse
via Guards Polo Academy
Coaches/Instructors Yes via Guards Polo Academy Livery No
Exercise Track
Indoor School No
Stables to Hire
Turn out Fields
Grooms’ Accommodation
Number
(for the season only)
for those hiring stables
2025 sees the world-famous Guards Polo Club celebrate its 70th anniversary. Set in the heart of Smith’s Lawn, which is thought to have been named after a gamekeeper in the 17th century, the Club hosts some of the top polo tournaments in the country including The Cartier Queen’s Cup. With royal ties right back to its founding father, HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, the Club’s royal heritage continued in 2024 when HM King Charles III became the Club’s President. The Clubhouse overlooks the iconic Queen’s Ground with five further fields which have recently all undergone a £4.5 million investment.
Club Address & Contact:
Guards Polo Club, Windsor Great Park, Surrey TW20 0HP
Sat Nav Code (correct gate into the Park): SL5 7SA
Polo Manager Name & Contact:
Antony Fanshawe (Director of Polo): antony.fanshawe@guardspoloclub.com
Tara Bown (Polo Manager): tara.bown@guardspoloclub.com
What year was the Club founded & by who? The Club was founded in 1955 by HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
HRH wanted to play closer to home –Windsor Castle – and HM Queen Elizabeth II suggested the Smith’s Lawn area of Windsor Great Park.
Any highlights for 2025 season?
Our 70th anniversary celebrations are still being finalised but the Club, under the Chairmanship of Lt Col Sean O’Dwyer, is gearing up for another spectacular season. HM King Charles III became the Club’s President in 2024, enabling us to continue to build on our remarkable royal heritage.
The successful completion of our £4.5million grounds project means that we
can offer even more polo on top quality fields. As our Director of Polo, Antony Fanshawe, says in the Club’s annual Yearbook: “The number of goals per game and the number of games per pitch has almost doubled.”
A highlight in 2025 will be the first edition of the Aston Martin Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup. The high goal Final will be played on Sunday 10 August and is the flagship event for the Club’s newest partner, Aston Martin, the iconic luxury British sport car brand.
Cartier will be celebrating its 41st year as a Club sponsor with the always epic, high goal Cartier Queen’s Cup competition. It is too early to confirm entries but the Polo Office is positive of achieving similarly strong numbers to last season. With all the new grounds in play we can expect some thrilling matches from 20 May – 15 June.
The Club’s Ladies Charity Polo Day moves to the earlier date of Saturday 5 July in 2025. This wonderful day, which regularly raises thousands for charity, will be built around the Ladies VL 22 Goal competition.
Searcys returns for a third year to manage the Clubhouse hospitality. Working alongside renowned chef Richard Corrigan, the team will be creating some memorable menus for the Clubhouse VIP events. Guards Polo Club is the sporting destination in this area of the UK. Our biggest days are also open to non-members, enabling everyone to sample the benchmark of polo, delivering fine dining and premier polo.
Guards Polo Club is also home to the only La Martina Store in the UK. At the time of writing this is currently undergoing a major refurbishment and will reopen at the start of the 2025 season. The Store not only offers a comprehensive collection of polo kit and clothing but is also home to the brand’s wonderful collection of weekend clothing, including handbags, shoes and key items from the bespoke ‘Guards Polo Club Collection by La Martina’ range.
What are the Club’s plans for the future?
Antony Fanshawe said in the 2024 edition of the Club’s Yearbook “Now that we have all the grounds [at Smith’s Lawn] up to spec I think we should focus on improving the Queen’s Ground (Ground One) to make it even better for the sport”.
Club alumni you would like to spotlight?
The Club’s Playing Membership is the envy of clubs around the world. With handicaps
ranging from 10 goals to -1, every Playing Member of Guards Polo Club can benefit from our amazing polo fields.
Does the Club specialise in a certain area of polo?
Guards Polo Club hosts polo for all sectors. We organise the UK’s leading 15 goal competition, The Out-Sourcing Inc. Royal Windsor Cup and the UK’s top 8 goal contest, The Archie David Cup. We are also home to the HPA’s International Day. This year England will be playing Brazil for The Coronation Cup. Alongside such impressive fixtures, Guards Polo Club also hosts the standout student day of polo, The La Martina Varsity Day as well as the military showcase for The Inter Regimental Final. Meanwhile the schools polo tournament, The Copenhagen Cup, gives some of polo’s younger players the opportunity to play on first-class fields. The Club also hosts a one-day Youth Tournament featuring our Members’ and players’ children in action alongside our high goal players’ children.
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If you would like to help us in this aim and you are able to make a donation, please visit https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/get-involved/donate/ or contact amy.swart@jamesplace.org.uk to learn more about the impact that you could make. www.jamesplace.org.uk
Pony Club Polo Chairman, Brigadier (Retd.) Justin Stanhope-White reports
On Thursday 20 February, The Pony Club’s Valentines Arena Tournament was played at Tedworth Park Polo Club. 15 teams made up of children from all across the country
came together to compete in five sections. There were some magnificent performances and lots of smiles despite the extremely challenging weather conditions.
The under 10 years old Jorrocks included a number of children taking part in a tournament for the very first time on their
The Pony Club’s Valentines Arena Tournament Results:
Jorrocks on Polo Ponies (JOPPs) Division 2
Pony Club ponies, many sporting their hairy winter coats and living up to their ‘fluffies’ description.
With the growing number of highly talented 10 years and under children playing polo this year, the Jorrocks on Polo Ponies (JOPPs) was split into two Divisions with the higher level playing a mash up with players from Surtees Division 3 and Handley Cross, the result was fast and furious, HH Sweet Treats squeaking out the win.
The Dorset Polo teams performed
strongly in both the JOPPs Division 2 and Surtees Sections taking home the prize for both. Ones to watch for the summer.
Loriner proved the showcase event of the day with the over 14-year-olds demonstrating an extremely fast and skilful game. It was close across the first two chukkas of the day but the Old Berks team’s ball control won the day, pulling away in the final chukka.
At the prize-giving, the magnificent Claire Tomlinson Cup was presented to Oscar
The Pony Club’s Valentines Arena Tournament Results:
JOPPs/Handley Cross /Surtees Division 3 Mash Up
1st – HH Sweet Treats 2nd – HH Happy Hearts
Surtees
1st – Dorset Polo 2nd
Wilson-Smith as the Most Promising JOPPs player. Oscar won the Cup in Summer 2024 at the Pony Club Championships at Cowdray, however the Cup was not available for presentation at the time. The Cup was kindly donated by the Tomlinson family in memory of Claire Tomlinson, the first British 5 goal woman player and an inspiration for many of the next generation of polo players.
A great day and thank you to Tedworth Park for hosting and Bethan Hitchman for her wonderful organisation of the event.
Alex Photo (Benja de la Fuente, Alejandro Ontiveros, Antonio Villamil & Aitor Jauretche) defeated World Polo League (Inaki Wulff, Inaki Gonzalez, Santos Valent & Lorenzo Nero), 3-0 in The Major Collin Memorial Final. 13-year-old Benja de la Fuente was awarded with his first ever Most Valuable Player prize and Picarona, owned by Polito Pieres and played by Lorenzo Nero, was the Best Playing Pony.
In the Blanco TX Cup, Tackeria (Sailor Schwaber, Benjamin Obregon, Harrison Reicher & Joseph Schwartz) defeated Mayer Ranch (Joaquin Vilgre, Amelia Massey, Ava Hinkson & Milo MacDonough), 4-2 with Harrison Reicher chosen as Most Valuable Player and Yatay Chevy, played by Milo MacDonough, chosen as Best Playing Pony.
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
CLUB
PHONE EMAIL
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
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
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
Cheshire Polo Club 01948 861020 info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk
Four teams competed at Empire Polo Club over 14 – 16 March in The Girls’ National Interscholastic Championship, with the Final played between Marlan Farm and Kingswood. Marlan Farm wasted no time asserting dominance in the final, with early goals from Sierra Blevins, Izzy Brockett and Kylie Beard to take an early lead. All five players rotated throughout the match and Mya Quarcoopome sustained Marlan Farm’s strong momentum with a two-pointer to open the third chukka. Restricting Kingswood to just two goals, Marlan Farm’s disciplined play secured a convincing 21-2 victory.
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
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
Dorset Polo Club 01202 623985 office@dorsetpolo.co.uk
CLUB PHONE EMAIL
The Sportsmanship Award was presented to Kingswood’s Finley Guenther, while Marlan Farm’s Izzy Brockett received the Horsemanship Award. Martin Garcia Della Costa claimed both the Best Playing String and Best Turned-Out String awards, as well as Best Playing Pony for Ghost.
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
Druids Lodge Polo Club* 01722 782597 abi@druidspolo.co.uk
Dundee and Perth Polo Club* 07831 365 194 jamesscrawford@aol.com
Home Farm Polo Grounds 07807672120 rachaelkearnet@hotmail.co.uk
Eastwood Polo Club 07875 743475 frankums@googlemail.com
Hurtwood Polo Club 01483 272828 polo@hurtwoodparkpolo.co.uk
Edgeworth Polo Club 01285 821695 edgeworthpolo@gmail.com
Kirtlington Park Polo Club 01869 350138 info@kirtlingtonparkpolo.co.uk
Edinburgh Polo Club* 07971 072336 james.dgls@gmail.com
Knepp Castle Polo Club 07920 023639 info@aspectpolo.co.uk
Emsworth Polo Grounds* 01344 883112 info@fourquarterspolo.co.uk
Special occasion polo cards for birthdays, anniversaries, get well soon, weddings, & baby congratulations; from £2.99 plus p&p
Leadenham Polo Club 07429 299026 office@leadenhampoloclub.com
Epsom Polo Club* 07961 232106 epsompoloclub@hotmail.com
Longdole Polo Club* 01452 864544 info@longdolepolo.com
FHM Polo Club* 07778 436468 frances@fhmpolo.co.uk
Suffolk Polo Club 07990 576974 aes3@cam.ac.uk
Sussex Polo Club* 01342 714920 info@sussexpolo.co.uk
Taunton Vale Polo Club 01823 480460 nhs.wheelers@gmail.com
Tidworth Polo Club* 01980 846705 info@tidworthpolo.com
Toulston Polo Club 07776 234638 info@toulstonpoloclub.com
Triskelion Polo Club* 07624 272547 polo@triskelionpolo.club
426968 info@valeofyorkpoloclub.co.uk
524613 vppc@btconnect.com
Moor Farm Polo Club 07494 114190 shop@moorfarmshop.co.uk
The Girls’ National Interscholastic Championship Final Teams: Marlan Farm: Sierra Blevins, Kylie Beard, Izzy Brockett, Mya Quarcoopome & Ana Grace Karpovich Kingswood: Niyati Eva Wali, Finley Guenther, Isabel Poniatowski, Brooke Henehan & Bridgette Frizzel
Fifield Polo Club* 01628 620061 fifieldpoloclub@live.co.uk
Moor Hall Farm Polo Club* 01279 450637 alecbeve@btinternet.com
Great Trippetts Polo Club 01428 741916 charles@trippetts.com
New Forest Polo Club 07977 224404 annabelparryjoyner@yahoo.co.uk
Guards Polo Club* 01784 434212 polo@guardspoloclub.com
Norfolk Polo Club 01508 480400 office@norfolkpolo.co.uk
Ham Polo Club 020 8334 0000 office@hampoloclub.com
Northern Ireland Polo Club 07803 020577 info@northernirelandpoloclub.co.uk
Hertfordshire Polo Club* 01707 256023 polo@hertspolo.co.uk
Visit www.Katesart.com or txt/tel 07887 678421 or email: enquiries@Katesart.com image copyright protected by Katesart.com 2007
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
560729 secretary@westwycombepolo.co.uk
01276 858545 info@westcroftparkpolo.co.uk
01430 875767 info@whiterosepolo.co.uk
Gill Glimmerveen reports
The SUPA Senior Schools’ National Championships on Sunday 2nd March at Onley Equestrian Complex (Rugby Polo arenas), once again drew great interest and many competitors. 39 teams entered creating a fantastic action-packed day with over 30 chukkas played on each of the two arenas.
The Open Divisions had a remarkable eight teams take part with professionalism and talent abounding.
Prior to the tournament, international real estate agents Prestige & Village offered SUPA Members an incredible opportunity for
four players, 16 years and under, to travel to Dubai for one week’s coaching and polo experience at Al Habtoor Polo Club in April 2025. A remarkable 29 Members put their names forward for this with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills for selection at the SUPA Nationals.
After an action-packed day, the four lucky players heading to Dubai were announced at the prize-giving ceremony. A massive congratulations to: Freddie Brockett, Bruno Bradshaw, Ben Howard and Angus Smail.
Beginners
1st – Heathfield Emeralds
2nd – Felsted/Haileybury Beginners
3rd – Haileybury Beginners
4th – Bryanston
5th – SUPA Stars
Lower Inters
1st – Shrewsbury Inter
2nd – Cheltenham C
3rd – Shrewsbury Blue
4th – Sherborne Gold
5th – Radley B
6th – Heathfield Sapphires
Open
Division 1
1st – Stowe A
2nd – Cheltenham A
3rd – Rugby School
4th – Radley A
Novice Red
1st – Hertfordshire Polo Academy
2nd – Stowe D
3rd – Radley C
4th – Cheltenham D
5th – Cool Hooves
6th – GWC Lions
Upper inters Yellow
1st – Stowe B
2nd – Eton College Inters
3rd – Bryanston/RGSHW
4th – Sherborne Blue
5th – Harrow B
6th – Rugby Combined
Division 2
1st – Eton College
2nd – Neogem
3rd – Minninnooka
4th – Seaford Combine
Upper Novice Combined 1st – Winch/Bournemouth Rein It In 2nd – Cowboy Casanovas
3rd – FearLeics Lboro
Upper Inters Green
1st – Harrow A
2nd – Felsted
3rd – SUPA Inters
4th – Cheltenham B
The 2025 Sarasota Women’s Challenge was played at Sarasota Polo Club in Florida, the annual women’s tournament was played over four handicap levels resulting in four Finals which culminated over the first weekend in March.
G3 Polo (Kris Gali, Kylie Sheehan, Mica Saracco & Summer Kneece) emerged as the winners of The A Flight Final with Summer Kneece the Most Valuable Player and Wimbedon, played by Meghan Gracida, the Best Playing Pony.
The B Flight Final was won by Jet Set Polo (Mariana Zimmerman, Avery Evans, Ingrid Donnan & Anna Palacious) with Avery Evans chosen as Most Valuable Player and Pocahontas, played by Anna
Palacious, as the Best Playing Pony.
Sarasota Polo School (Camille Ricaud, Ashlie Osburg, Elizabeth Owen & Ainsley Mulligan) won The C Flight Final with Ashlie Osburg chosen as the Most Valuable Player and Tony, played by Ainsley Mulligan, selected as the Best Playing Pony.
The D Flight Final was won by Abraham LLC (Stephanie Abraham, Melissa Wightman, Lynn Billings, Luna Jeschke, Mary Howard & Colleen Maxcy) with Stephanie Abraham named Most Valuable Player and Reina, played by Emma Uihlein, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.
Four teams between 17 and 25 goals (the tournament is open for teams from 0 to 40 goals), competed in the 2025 Masters Femenino at the Alfredo Lalor Headquarters of the Argentine Polo Association, in Pilar. Qualifying matches began on Tuesday 11 March and concluded on Sunday 16 March in Palermo with the Final between Los Sauces Fundación Shoonem and Capilla del Señor Las Brisas Polo. Capilla del Señor Las Brisas Polo, featuring the Lavinia sisters, began the Final with a three goal handicap advantage
which they made full use of and helped secure them the 11-9 win to take the title. 14-year-old Isabella Lavinia received the Most Valuable Player Award.
The 2025 Masters Femenino Final Teams: Capilla del Señor Las Brisas Polo (21): Isabella Lavinia (2), Juana Lavinia (4), Catalina Lavinia (8) & Maitena Marré (7) Los Sauces Fundación Shoonem (24): Pauline Schaer (3), Juana Deramo (4), Milagros Sánchez (8) & Lía Salvo (9)
The Ladies British Open was played as part of the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club’s 29th Arena Gold Cup weekend (to read more about The Gold and Silver Cups please turn to the Reports pages). Defending champions, No Drama Racing, narrowly lost out to Rosina by one goal with the final score going right down to the last chukka, 13-12. The winning goal was scored by Nell Jacob, who has been recently appointed as the Polo Manager at the Club. Emily Price was chosen as the Most Valuable Player and Vasca Intriga, owned and played by Nell Jacob, was the Best Playing Pony.
The Women of Wellington (WOW) Polo Series is a medium goal polo league aiming to offer playing opportunities and a platform
to promote amateur and professional women players. The 2025 WOW Polo Series is made up of three tournaments,
The USPA Red Barn Feed & Supply Women’s Challenge (6 – 18 January: won by North Star), The USPA Brad & Kathy Coors Foundation Women’s Challenge (11 February – 7 March) and The USPA Tabebuia Cup (10 – 29 March).
The USPA Brad & Kathy Coors Foundation Women’s Challenge was played at Flying Cow Polo Club at 10-14 goal level. The Final was played on Friday 7 March with Lost Creek Ranch (Anne Gottwald, Hope Arellano, Lily Lequerica and Kimberly Gottwald) securing the win. Hope Arellano was chosen as the Most Valuable Player and Don Ercole Maca, played and owned by Arellano, was the Best Playing Pony.
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
Polo is a game of speed, precision, and strategic thinking. While skill, horsemanship, and teamwork are essential, the true differentiator between elite players and the rest is mindset. A strong mental game not only enhances performance but also builds resilience, enabling players to handle pressure, setbacks, and the unpredictable nature of the sport.
As a mindset coach working with highperformance individuals, from corporate leaders to elite athletes, I have seen firsthand that mental conditioning is as important as physical training. The ability to stay composed under pressure, maintain confidence despite setbacks, and sustain focus in fast-paced games is what truly elevates a player’s performance.
In this article, we will explore the key mindset traits that define successful polo players and provide practical techniques to cultivate a winning mentality both on and off the field.
Top polo players don’t just train their bodies; they train their minds. The ability to master mental discipline is what allows them to play at the highest level, making critical decisions in a split second while remaining composed. Here are the essential mental attributes that define a winning polo mindset:
1. Composure Under Pressure
Polo is a game of high stakes and rapid action. Every match presents challenges – a unexpected foul, a misjudged swing, or an aggressive opponent. A great player is not just defined by how they execute shots but how they handle pressure. Composure is the
ability to remain calm, regulate emotions and execute effectively even when the stakes are high.
Practical Tip: Practice deep breathing techniques before and during a match. A simple 4-7-8 breathing exercise (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8) can regulate heart rate and keep you focused in high-pressure moments.
2. Focus & Decision-Making
The best polo players have razor-sharp focus. In a sport where split-second decisions determine the outcome, mental clarity is essential. A distracted mind leads to missed opportunities, positioning errors, and slow reaction times. Training the mind to stay present – one play, one ride-off, one goal at a time – improves efficiency and execution.
Practical Tip: Develop a pre-game mental warm-up routine, including visualisation and mindfulness exercises. Before the match, close your eyes and mentally rehearse your movements, envisioning different scenarios and how you will respond.
3. Resilience & Adaptability
In polo, things don’t always go as planned. You might miss a crucial shot, your horse may not perform as expected, or your team might be struggling against an aggressive opponent. Resilience is the ability to bounce back quickly and stay engaged rather than getting discouraged by mistakes.
Practical Tip: Implement the ‘Next Play’ mentality – instead of dwelling on what went wrong, immediately shift focus to the next opportunity. When you make a mistake, repeat a mantra like “reset and refocus” to keep your mind forward-looking.
Building a Strong Polo Mindset: Techniques & Strategies
Beyond natural talent and physical training, elite polo players actively develop mental skills. Below are some strategies to strengthen mental resilience and optimise performance:
1. Visualisation & Mental Rehearsal
Elite athletes across sports use visualisation techniques to mentally prepare for competition. Before stepping onto the field, players can visualise successful passes, controlled swings, accurate shots, and calm reactions to pressure.
How to Implement:
Close your eyes and imagine yourself performing at your best. Envision different match scenarios and how you will react with confidence. Repeat this process daily to enhance muscle memory and game-day confidence.
2. Confidence Through Self-Talk
What you say to yourself before and during a game impacts performance. Positive self-talk boosts confidence, while negative self-talk leads to hesitation and fear of failure.
How to Implement:
Develop affirmations: “I am focused,” “I trust my skills,” “I thrive under pressure.” When facing self-doubt, replace negative thoughts with empowering statements. Keep a journal of past successes to remind yourself of your abilities.
3. Emotional Control & Resilience Training
Polo is a dynamic game, and emotions can fluctuate quickly. Frustration, anxiety, or overexcitement can cloud judgement, leading to rushed decisions or mistakes.
How to Implement:
Use mindfulness techniques to stay present and manage emotions.
Adopt controlled aggression – stay intense but disciplined. Learn from mistakes rather than dwelling on them.
4. Pre-Match & Post-Match Reflection
Great players continuously analyse their mindset and performance to improve. After each match, reflect on what went well and what needs work.
How to Implement:
Keep a post-match reflection journal: Write
down three things you did well and three things to improve.
Ask yourself: How did I handle pressure? How was my focus? What mental adjustments can I make? Work with a coach or mentor to refine your mindset strategies.
A strong mindset doesn’t just help in polo – it translates into all areas of life. The ability to stay calm under pressure, make confident decisions, and bounce back from setbacks is invaluable in business, relationships, and personal challenges.
For young players and professionals alike, mindset training is an investment in long-term performance, well-being, and success. The mental toughness developed on the field extends beyond the sport, shaping a resilient and determined approach to life.
The best polo players understand that the mental game is just as important as the physical one. By developing focus, resilience, composure, and confidence, players can elevate their performance and consistently bring their best to the field.
Training your mindset is an ongoing process, but the benefits are undeniable. When you master the inner game, your outer game follows suit.
So next time you mount up, remember: Your most powerful asset is not your mallet, your horse, or your skills – it’s your mindset.
For more information please call Paul Stalker on 07771 515885 or email stalkie@raisepolo.com
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Whether horses are being prepped to play at St. Moritz, Deauville, Sotogrande, or Florida to Upstate New York, from West to East across America, from Argentina to the UK, Australia or New Zealand to the UK, or even frequent journeys at home during the season, we need to prepare them, especially when they arrive at their destination with an expectation they are ready to play.
I’m frequently asked about travelling –across all the equine disciplines – and the areas to focus on.
Q: How soon do I consider prepping my horses to travel abroad?
A: I would generally be looking at beginning to consider dietary changes one to 14 days before travel, aiming to increase the plane of nutrition to ensure we are supporting immunity to cope with the extra stresses placed upon their bodies during travel, whilst leaving them ready to play on arrival.
Those horses that don’t hold their condition well or drop condition quickly during travel will need to have the calorie intake of their diet adjusted two to three weeks before travel, focusing on increasing digestible fibre sources such as alfalfa or beet pulp as opposed to using conditioning or performance feeds – particularly so if they are on high starch/cereal diets.
Q: What are the key areas I need to focus on?
A:
Hydration before, during and after travel is essential in reducing the incidences of colic or tying-up as well as supporting performance upon arrival. If you have an individual that is known to be a poor drinker then find a way to encourage water intake through very sloppy mashes or chaff with water, for example. Accepting that they just won’t drink when offered water at stops is not best practice – they must be encouraged!
The use of electrolytes is also necessary, so offer water during travel with electrolytes – practice administering electrolytes beforehand so you know they will accept water and electrolytes en route. Personally, I would rather use electrolytes in water rather than syringes for this purpose.
Immunity needs to be supported when travelling. Horses exert energy whilst travelling – standing and bracing use similar amounts of energy as they would whilst walking (not like a flight for us when we have a gin and snooze!). The air quality and flow will be quite different to what they are used to when stabled which can also compromise their immunity, so ensuring they are receiving adequate vitamins and minerals is essential in helping to ensure a healthy arrival.
A high fibre intake is vital for gut motility whilst travelling. Again, make a plan to identify those horses that don’t eat forage whilst travelling and then try ‘encouraging’ options beforehand – perhaps they would be better to eat some chaff or beet pulp if they don’t eat forage during transit. These could well be the same horses that don’t drink well as the two often go hand in hand!
Transporters should be allowing free access to forage throughout the journey as this helps reduce the risk of colic as well as being an aid to hydration – with forage acting as a water reservoir in the hindgut.
Gut health can be disrupted by the stresses of travelling during short or long journeys, as it will be by sudden changes in forage and concentrates – possibly also by reduced forage intake if they don’t eat up well or if they are not offered adequate amounts on journeys. A disturbance in the hind gut flora/bacteria and lack of fibre could all contribute to weight loss, so supporting gut health with the use of a pre/probiotic supplement is ideal.
Q: My horse is on a Conditioning Mix normally, but what feed should I give to travel?
A: Using the Conditioning Mix is absolutely fine, but for long distance travel I would suggest reducing their ration by a third during transit, in order to reduce starch in the diet. It’s also worth topping up the lower quantity of mix with a balancer to maintain a higher level of nutrition without the starch and energy.
Once they have arrived at their destination, I would maintain them on the reduced quantity of mix plus balancer during the couple of quieter days of exercise whilst they acclimatise before increasing again to pre-travel amounts once they are working harder and settled.
Q: How do I manage a poor drinker when travelling?
A: These individuals can be really frustrating and really do need to be monitored carefully. Trying different methods or concoctions to encourage them to drink BEFORE they embark on the longer distance journeys is really a must to avoid running into problems once on the road or when they have arrived at their destination when climate and stresses can further take a toll.
As I have mentioned above, exploring ideas such as:
• Add apple juice or Ribena to water
• Very, very sloppy beet pulp or just beet pulp water
• Adding water to chaff – a scoop of chaff and half a bucket of water, for example
• Grating apples or carrots into the water or beet or chaff
• Adding electrolytes to the above (some horses like electrolyte water and will drink up better with them in rather than plain water)
• Tepid water rather than cold water.
Q: Do I need to change what I feed when travelling to a country that is hotter or colder?
A: Not necessarily, but forward planning and finding out what type of concentrate feed is available at your destination so you can introduce a like for like product before you go is ideal – and this is one less change for them to adapt to once arrived.
I find it is the change in forage that catches many out but, in reality, the opportunity for a gradual change in forage is not always possible, which increases the risk
of colic significantly. When moving the horses to warmer climates, such as Spain from the UK, they will very often be receiving hay which is often a lot coarser, with more stem and less leaf than they would have generally been receiving in the UK. They may not find it as palatable so ensuring additional fibre sources like alfalfa chaffs and beets can be purchased before arrival is worth considering.
When travelling to cooler countries, you may find the horses have an increased appetite for feed and/or forage – the hind gut generates heat as fibre is digested and therefore in colder weather they will want to eat more to keep warm!
Using electrolytes for hot and cold destinations, is really important to factor into supplies when there or to take with you – they are expected to perform in both climates!
Q: Is there anything I need to take into consideration when prepping horses to take to St. Moritz, the climate and altitude is obviously a lot different to the UK?
A: It is well documented that, regardless of fitness levels, some horses may not perform at high altitudes as they would the same at sea level. The effect on horses is thought to be less than humans – however, altitude at 5,000ft can have an effect on exercise, and above 7,000ft begins to have an impact on their performance. St. Moritz is at approximately 6,000ft.
As we know there is less oxygen available at high altitudes and the horse’s body needs to adapt to make these adjustments to compensate for the lack of oxygen. To counteract for the reduced oxygen in the air the horse will increase its respiratory rate. As respiration increases, so does the heart rate to ensure oxygenated blood is pumped around the body. Alongside the increased respiratory rate, the body
also generates more red blood cells to assist in oxygen transportation – which can take approximately four to seven days –something to bear in mind when make travel and acclimatisation plans to ensure peak performance
As the body tries to protect the vital organs, brain, lungs and heart, the blood flow will shift, and as a result, blood flow to the brain, heart, and lungs is increased and the blood flow to other organs, such as the digestive tract, is reduced. What we need to be mindful of at this point are disturbances to the digestive tract, so it’s worth keeping a very close eye on droppings, fibre intake and hydration.
• Ensure a balanced diet providing an optimum level of vitamins and minerals – thus supporting the mobilisation of red blood cells upon arrival and supporting the body under stresses during a long journey
• Increasing the plane of nutrition – a week to ten days before travelling by adding a balancer to the existing diet
• Ensuring a beet pulp is being fed –alongside hard feed as well as during travel – and increasing it on arrival to support gut motility at the higher altitude
• Provide adequate amounts of forage – as always!
• Using a pre/probiotic supplement to support the beneficial fibre-digesting bacteria in the hind gut during times of stress – such as travel and performing at altitude
• Monitoring of water intake and the provision of electrolytes is essential
Should you be in a quandary about preparing for long distance travel and playing upon arrival, don’t be afraid to speak to a nutritionist to seek advice, we don’t bite!
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
In the world of elite sports, every millisecond counts, every decision matters and every advantage is crucial. Polo players, like toptier athletes across disciplines, are constantly searching for ways to refine their skills, sharpen their focus, and recover faster. The days of guessing are over and better insights help to know what is needed to professionalise the approach to diagnose and increase mental performance with hyperpersonalised neuro-optimisation.
Problem Insight
The brain still holds many secrets that are difficult to decipher. However, with advanced engineering, we can begin to unlock some of them. Diagnostic tools for this purpose are primarily found in neurological and neurosurgical institutions, where clinics
mainly treat pathological changes and brain dysfunctions. For performance enhancement, any treatment must be both comprehensible and practical for a dedicated sports medical professional and the athlete alike. Elite athletes in F1, NBA and NFL sports have long been using brain mapping and neurofeedback to enhance cognitive performance. The demand for split-second decision-making, exceptional coordination and unwavering mental resilience is crucial to perform well. Uniquely polo combines precision hand/eye coordination, strategy and adaptability while operating at high speeds on a horseback. The player’s ability to remain calm under pressure, process information instantly and execute flawlessly can mean the difference between victory and defeat and of course injury.
BrainX360® allows players to hyper-personalise and curate brain optimisation programmes
Problem Solution
With QEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalography) brain mapping and neurofeedback, this game-changing technology can make a significant impact. With non-invasive electrodes on the skin of the head it removes the guesswork from brain training and delivers neurooptimisation on a new level. This advanced approach is not just about boosting mental sharpness; it is a scientific method to rewire and enhance the brain for peak performance.
(CEO of NADclinic Global Group)
1. No guesswork, just science
• Just as blood tests guide targeted nutrition, QEEG brain mapping provides a precise analysis of brain function
• Identify cognitive strengths, weaknesses, and imbalances to develop a tailored neuro-training program
• Avoid generic mental training – use data-driven insights to optimise focus, reaction speed, and decision-making
2. Train your brain like your body
• Physical endurance is only half the equation – mental endurance is equally critical in polo
• Neurofeedback training enhances focus, reaction time, emotional control, and stress resilience under pressure
• Just as polo players refine their swing mechanics, they must also train their brains for peak efficiency
Whether improving reaction times, optimising decision-making under pressure, or accelerating concussion recovery, QEEG and neurofeedback are revolutionising how elite athletes train their minds.
QEEG and neurofeedback training can help:
• Enhance reaction times to anticipate and respond faster
• Sharpen focus to stay locked in for the entire match
• Improve emotional regulation to maintain composure under pressure
• Optimise decision-making for better tactical choices on the field And beyond performance, these techniques can also play a vital role in concussion management and recovery, helping players return to peak condition faster and more safely.
Physical training programmes are tailored to individual needs. To take this further, blood tests, genetic profiling, and customised nutrition plans are essential for optimising
3. Adapt neuro-training to performance & recovery cycles
• Before matches: Optimise mental clarity, reaction speed, and decision-making for peak performance
• Post-match & injury recovery: Use neurofeedback to promote faster cognitive recovery and concussion rehabilitation
• Ongoing training: Continuously refine mental resilience and adaptability for sustained performance improvement
physical health. Similarly, a one-size-fits-all approach to brain training fails to provide the specific stimulation the brain needs to function as an athlete’s most powerful tool. BrainX360® allows players to hyperpersonalise and curate brain optimisation programmes, ensuring they consistently operate at their mental and physical peak. Traditional mental training methods rely on subjective assessments and broad strategies that may not align with an individual’s unique neurological profile.
QEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalography) brain mapping transforms this approach by providing a datadriven, objective analysis of brain function, identifying inefficiencies, imbalances, and untapped potential. This enables neurofeedback training to be precisely tailored to a player’s unique neurological strengths and weaknesses – just like a personalised fitness or nutrition plan. No more guesswork – just precise, targeted improvements where they matter most.
Cutting-edge recovery and injury prevention
To stay ahead in the sport, polo athletes must integrate brain optimisation strategies into their training routines. Polo is a game of fine margins, where split-second decisions and mental resilience determine success. Just as elite players refine their nutrition and fitness, precision brain training and reactionary optimisation are crucial for sustained peak performance. By incorporating AI-driven QEEG brain mapping, neuro-training, and neurofeedback into their regimes, polo players can enhance focus, reaction speed, and recovery –gaining a critical edge over the competition. In high-performance sport, optimising brain function isn’t optional; it’s the next frontier –the defining factor between winning and losing.
Key strategies for brain optimisation
• Regular Brain Scanning – Assess cognitive performance with QEEG and AI-driven neuro-mapping
• Targeted Cognitive Training – Use neurofeedback to improve focus, reaction speed, and stress management
• Advanced Recovery Protocols – Utilise therapies such as HBOT, NAD+ IV & Methylene Blue infusions, and photobiomodulation for accelerated recovery after falls or intense matches
• Personalised Brain Health Plans – Work with specialists to create individualised cognitive optimisation programmes
• Continuous Monitoring – Track progress and adjust interventions for sustained brain performance
For more information on Polodoc contact Andreas Krüger at drmedkrueger@gmail.com or www.polodoc.ch
&
& 25th
7th & 8th June
& 15th June
& 22nd June
& 29th June
& 6th July
12th & 13th July
& 20th
Polo Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Awards Dinner; Friday 14 February; Museum of Polo, USA
The 36th annual Polo Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Awards Dinner, held at the Museum of Polo was again an evening celebrating the greats of polo. Jorie Butler Kent received three standing ovations as she accepted the Iglehart Award for her lifelong contributions. Former 10 goal arena talent, ‘Smokin’ Joe Henderson was inducted into the Polo Hall of Fame. Jimmy Bachman, who dominated the 1980s and early 1990s, was inducted into the Polo Hall of Fame posthumously. The 7 goaler had considerable success at all levels and his daughter, Candy Gaines, accepted the award. Susan Stovall received the Iglehart Award posthumously, honouring her achievements on and off the field. Gene Fortugno accepted the Horses to Remember award for Flash, a remarkable horse owned by John T. Oxley. In 1973, Flash secured three Best Playing Pony awards while being ridden by Billy Linfoot, Roy Barry, and Corky Linfoot. Beatrice, the equine honouree from the early pre-Hartman era, was celebrated for her historic contributions. Owned by Laddie Sanford, she was ridden by Dev Milburn in the 1924 Westchester Cup and later played by Winston Guest in the 1928 Cup of the Americas and the 1930 Westchester Cup.
Photography by Krystal Zaskey Photography & Alex Pacheco
It has recently been announced that Nell Jacob will be taking over from Simon McDonald as Polo Manager at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club. Nell has been the Club’s Assistant Polo Manager for several years already.
Congratulations to Cami Rossi and Nacho Elia on the arrival of Amra!
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.
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Congratulations to Pedrinho and Natalia Misael Zacharias on the arrival of their son, Inácio, much to the delight of their daughter Valentina.
Congratulations to Freddie Horne and Anuschka Bahlsen-Horne on the arrival of their fourth child. Alba arrived on 19 March to add to the couple’s brood.
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.
Windsor M.K Milne Trophy 10 04/04/25 13/04/25
Windsor Windsor Low Goal Subzero,
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
Argentine Association of Horse Breeders’ Best Playing Pony: Future Lituania, played by Carlos María Ulloa
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
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
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Blueys Polo Club* 07930 323263 polomanager@blueyspolo.co.uk
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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
Best Playing Pony of the Final: Alberta Belvedere, played by Carlos María Ulloa
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.
PHONE EMAIL
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
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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
Fair Play Award: Carlos Braun
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
West Wycombe Park Polo Club* secretary@westwycombepolo.co.uk
Westcroft Park Polo Club* 01276 858545 info@westcroftparkpolo.co.uk
White Rose Polo Club* 01430 875767 info@whiterosepolo.co.uk
White Waltham Polo Club 07748 670587 kim@playpolo.co.uk
* Also open for arena polo in the UK winter
6-Year-Old Bay Mare, 15.2hh Calypso. Owned for 3 years. Sweet natured, good mannered, has played baby chukkas and umpired in 2023, had 2024 off polo due to my work commitments, did some hacking. Returning back into fitness this month. Clean legs. (Melton Mowbray). £4,500. Tel: 07429 299026
10-year-old, 15.3hh
Honey. 10 years old, owned for four years. 15.3hh. Has played up to 6 goal. £7,500. Tel: 07429 299026
2020 Equitrek Victory XL
Absolutely immaculate horsebox with full luxury living. Just serviced. Only done 11,000 miles. Full living with warm air heating and gas if needed plus 240 volt hookup. Hot water shower and flushing toilet, fridge, microwave, hob and satellite TV. Can be two twin bunks or a double. (Horsham). £48,000. Tel: 07989 380139
7.5 Tonne Horse Lorry
Partitioned for 5/6 horses. Plated until July 2025 and new tyres. New spring loaded ramp fitted in 2023, new metal floor with rubber matting on top in 2023. Large luton area with five saddle racks and space for lots of polo kit. Battery isolator. £5,995 ono (Gloucester). Tel: 07860 906032
2x leather equaliser girths, 1x polo belt, 1x pair of polo riding gloves, 1x leather overgirth. Everything is new and I am only asking £65 to clear which is less than half the retail price. Postage with Evri is £6 recorded or you are welcome to collect in Newmarket. £65. Tel: 07793 203977
SCOREBOARDS AND CLOCKS DESIGNED FOR POLO Outdoor and arena sizes. Fully electronic, displaying the time counting down, both scores and chukka number. Automatic bell/ horn. Controlled wirelessly by a remote control you can even wear on your arm. Visit www.SportingDesigns.co.uk or
Art
& PIGSTICKING PAINTINGS,PRINTS,BOOKS KEY RING ETC TEL 01934 613996 www marlboroughbooksandprints.co.uk
Isidro Strada has enjoyed successes across the globe, from back-to-back wins in the 2024 and 2025 Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz, multiple Cámara de Diputados Cup titles (2024 and 2020), qualifying for The Argentine Open, winning The Royal Windsor Cup and Indian Empire Shield. Strada’s successes have spanned a decade and Polo Times caught up with him to find out his Passions
1. What is your biggest passion and why? Horses. It’s hard to explain it but it’s something special and I am sure that people who also love horses will understand. When you choose a stallion for your mare, you start dreaming of the embryo, then it is born, then you send it to the breaker, after that you try it for the first time and one day you get to play it. That whole process to me is unbelievable.
2. What is your all-time best polo memory? Winning The Repechaje in 2020 with all my friends and family outside the field.
3. Who were/are your favourite teammates? Benja Urquiza, Valentín Novillo Astrada and Silvestre Hunter.
4. Which sports do you like outside of polo?
I enjoy skiing, golf and tennis.
5. Favourite film?
Wedding Crashers
6. Favourite album?
Gloria Eterna album by Heroicos Sobrevivientes.
7. Favourite food/dish?
An asado by far!
8. Favourite hobby outside of polo?
Spending time with my family and friends.
9. Most prized possession?
Without a doubt my family.
10. Favourite celebrity and why?
Sir Mick Jagger – a legend.
11. Best holiday destination and activity? Patagonia, fishing in the middle of the lake with no noises. There I can really disconnect.
12. Best pony and why?
Cuartetera. I’ve never seen something like that. Two favourites of mine are Media Luna and Lady Jane.
13. Are you passionately superstitious? Not at all.
14. Describe yourself in three words? Fun, wild, straightforward.
15. One thing which would surprise us about you?
I can speak backwards and break dance.
