Volume 2026 • £6.50 Volume 31 31 •• Issue Issue 7 6 •• August July 2026 • £6.50
THE PERFECT BALANZ UNDERDOGS TOCapital TOP DOGS The Unbeatable Balanz Win
Dynasty andQueen’s DestinyCup Play out at Cowdray The Cartier
VICTOR LUDORUM IN FULL WIN SWING BRITS SHINE IN WARWICKSHIRE Your Thai Tournament Polo Take theRound Title Up and Results INTERVIEW: HINE TIME A ROYAL SUCCESS
Three£1 Siblings, UKonHigh GoalRoyal TitlesCharity Day Over MillionThree Raised DMMI PLUS: Passions with Jake Coventry, Rundle & Pony Power PLUS: Performance Through Prevention,The Youth Focus Cup & Victor Ludorum Update
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“Polo Times is undoubtedly the most influential contemporary polo magazine” Contents Horace Laffaye
Contents
What’s inside… August
Publisher Nick Hine publisher@polotimes.co.uk
Editor in Chief Rosabella Hine rosabella@polotimes.co.uk
Editor Katie Perez editorial@polotimes.co.uk
Principal Design James Morgan
Design Alice Ruddy
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Financial Controller Angie Clark accounts@polotimes.co.uk
Accounts & Administration Assistant Rosalind Cutter admin@polotimes.co.uk Administration Assistant Lynne Berry
Contributors:
Alice Gipps, Michael Berkeley, Mark Beaumont, John Hankin, Gillian Hughes, Dr.med. Andreas Krüger, Tony Ramirez/ ©www.imagesofpolo.com, India Parker Smith, Paul Stalker, Teá Carr-Hartley, The Art of Polo, Sam Churchill
Cover photograph:
Celebrations from The St. Regis British Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup Final. By Alice Gipps
Contact details
16 News 4
22
All the Latest News
Features 8 10
Big Picture Cover Story: A Royal Success – Karl Ude-Martinez on The DMMI Royal Charity Day
Reports 16
Cover Story: The St. Regis British Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup British Beach Polo Championships The BARNES Nations Cup Cover Story: The Victor & Victrix Ludorum Update
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Your Club News from Home and Abroad WIP League Tournaments So Far The Ladies Nations Cup
© Polo Times Limited 2026 and Database Right 2026 Polo Times Limited holds the copyright & database right to the information it publishes in Polo Times and on the Polo Times website. No content may be reproduced or distributed without the consent of the Publisher. ‘Polo Times’ is the trade mark of Polo Times Limited. ISSN 1461-4685
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Polo Times, August 2026
Youth Polo 47
Military Polo 48 53 53 54 54
The Rundle Cup The Inter-Regimental The Sir John Chapple Cup Series The Sassoon Cup The Captains and Subalterns
Knowledge 57 60 62 64
Pony Power Physical Performance Coach: Hips Don’t Lie Equine Physio: Performance Through Prevention Ctd Performance Coach: Find Your Why
Sidelines 67
Social Pages
Polo Directory 76 79
What’s On in August Classifieds
Final Bell 80
Cover Story: Passions: Jake Coventry
The Victor Futurum: Junior Gold Cup www.polotimes.co.uk
F O R T H E M O M E N T S A F T E R T H E M AT C H
ENGLISH WHISK Y FROM ENGLISH OAK www.ascalonwhisky.com
from the Publisher
As always, keep well and play safe Nick Hine
4
Polo Times, August 2026
Polo Times Launches Spanish Edition We are delighted to announce the launch of Polo Times en Español. For the first time in our 31-year history, Polo Times is available in Spanish, with our news, features, tournament coverage and exclusive interviews now accessible through a dedicated Spanish digital edition of the magazine. With almost 475 million native Spanish speakers worldwide, more than 100 million additional Spanish speakers, and polo’s deep roots in Argentina and across Latin America and Europe, this marks an exciting step in bringing the world’s leading polo publication even closer to the heart of the sport’s global Spanish-speaking community. The Spanish edition of our July issue is now available for subscribers to read online through the Polo Times website, and from now on every monthly digital edition will also be published in Spanish, allowing readers across Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Mexico, Spain and beyond to enjoy the latest international polo coverage in their native language. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to expanding our Spanish-language coverage as we continue connecting polo’s worldwide community. July issue available here
Photograph by Sam Churchill
Every so often there comes a moment that reminds you just how far polo can reach. This month, I’m delighted to share one of those moments as we launch Polo Times en Español, an Argentine Spanish edition of the magazine. For more than three decades, Polo Times has proudly championed the sport across Britain and beyond. Argentina, however, has always held a unique place in polo’s story, producing many of the world’s finest players, horses and families. Being able to present our journalism in Argentine Spanish is an exciting new chapter, allowing us to connect more directly with the heartland of the sport while continuing to celebrate polo’s truly international community. It seems fitting that this milestone coincides with an issue showcasing polo at its very best. Our cover story follows Gaston’s remarkable journey from outsiders to champions as they claimed their first Cowdray Gold Cup with a thrilling 9–8 victory over six-time winners Dubai. It was a Final full of emerging stars, famous family names and unforgettable drama –everything that makes high-goal polo such a compelling spectacle. Elsewhere, we go behind the scenes at the DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup, where HRH The Prince of Wales once again demonstrated how polo can be a force for good. The event raised more than £1 million this year, taking the total generated over the past 15 years beyond £15 million for charities that make a real difference. Alongside these features you’ll find our comprehensive Victor Ludorum round-up, exclusive interviews and regular columns that continue to reflect every facet of the game, from elite competition to grassroots passion. Thank you, as always, for your continued support. Whether you’re reading us in the UK, Argentina or anywhere else in the world, we hope this issue reminds you why polo remains one of the most fascinating and rewarding sports to follow.
News
Krenkerup Polo
The Krenkerup Invitational returns to Denmark
The Krenkerup Invitational returns to Denmark on 7–9 August 2026, welcoming three specially invited teams for a weekend of high-quality polo at the magnificent Krenkerup Estate on the island of Lolland. Following a successful inaugural edition that attracted more than 3,000 spectators, the tournament returns for its second consecutive year. This year’s invited teams are SafeRock, Strategic Help for Heroes and Gut Oenigstedt, promising three days of exciting polo played in a friendly and sporting atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy free admission to Denmark’s only professional polo ground, together with freshly brewed beer from the estate’s own award-winning Krenkerup brewery. A special highlight of the weekend will be the presence of horses from the Mounted Squadron of the Guards Hussar Regiment. The squadron’s horses appear exclusively at royal ceremonies, state occasions and other official ceremonial events, offering visitors a rare opportunity to see these distinguished horses outside their usual duties. Set in the heart of the Danish countryside, the Krenkerup Invitational offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy first-class polo, outstanding local beer and warm Scandinavian hospitality. www.polotimes.co.uk
MAX CHARLTON
Photo by The Art of Polo
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News News
Reports
The VIII Thai Polo Cup
Michael Berkeley Steps Out From Argentine Rocksavage & Hipwood Merged into Pony Club Behind LensBPP with Polo King of Sports Association of the
Bellamar Pampa Norte comeback, but by the fifth and sixth chukkas, it was Lavinia who were controlling the action with Carlos Marí a Ulloa and Manuel Giménez Villamil The Hipwood and Rocksavage, which have commanding theJunior team from back and previously been HPA the tournaments, combining with into theirthe forwards, Ramon will now bewell merged Pony Club Cassino Jack Whitman to secure from thisand season onwards, while the Lavinia their first Thaisection Polo Cup title, 10½-4. Buckmaster 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
BPP
Photograph by Justine Jacquemot / R&B Presse
Horse Breeders’ and Pony Club; all Pony Club members Druids Lodge Best Playing Pony: Polo Club’s official photographer Michael Berkeley is less than 3 goals will Future playcelebrating a flat rate £50 a milestone with the launch of his new book, Polo King Lituania,of Best Playing Pony for their HPA membership. Andrew Barlow, of Sports. played by Carlos of the Final: Chairman of the HPA Development is and often dismissed as the preserve of kings, playboys and& Gaston Lucero MaríaPolo Ulloa Alberta Belvedere, played by Coaching Committee, commented, vitalKing of financial support Park Place this new millionaires.“A Polo Sports sets out tofrom challenge that myth. Federico Martelli Carlos María Ulloa HPA role is to promote grassroots polo and of striking partnership enablesthe usbook to focus on our Across 240 pages photography, portrays the the development of young polo players. structured development pathway whilst thriving world ofInpolo as a whole: a sport populated by obsessive combining the previous Junior HPA hardworking with wholeheartedly supporting and promoting amateurs, grooms and, above all, the magnificent Pony Club tournaments, ponies this allows Clubthe Polo”. For more information on at itsusheart. It alsoPony explores flourishing worlds of military to enhance our long-termpolo objectives of polo, thatPony polobehind please the contact Charles and arena takesClub readers scenes at every promoting talent for the benefit ofaallgame. players Whittington, or for Hipwood and Rocksavage stage of and the sport in the future. With generous contact Jillysigning Emerson. Michael will mark thespecifically occasion with a book and press launch at Druids Lodge Polo Club, Wiltshire, SP3 4UN on Thursday 3 September 2026 from 4.30pm. Entry is free, so come along, meet Michael and buy your signed copy. Polo King of Sports is a visually The breathtaking background to one of the most picturesque polo tournaments in the world striking book offering a glamorous, behind the scenes insight into the world of polo.
Photography by Matias Callejo
Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad
The team line-ups have been confirmed for the 2026 Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad, which returns to the Swiss Alps from 20–23 August with four 14 goal teams. Argentine great Gonzalo Pieres will make his Gstaad debut for Hublot alongside Rupert Knauf, Alfonso Nero and Bautista Beguerie. Defending champions Gstaad Palace return with Markus and Thommy Graeff, Santiago Loza and Facundo Kelly. Kielder Agro Group will field Juan Pepa, Antonio Manzano and brothers Manuel and Horacio Fernandez Llorente, while Albinati Aeronautics will also include a family line up with brothers Luca and Santiago Llavallol & Carlos María Ulloa Fabio Meier teaming up with Adrian Laplacette and Facundo Retamar. With four evenly matched teams and several leading international players confirmed, the 2026 edition of the Hublot Polo Gold Cup Polo Club Niederweiden will be competing in the 2022 Polo Rider Cup Gstaad promises a wide-open battle for the title.
MVP
Fair Play Award: Carlos Braun
Carlos María Ulloa
Polo Rider Cup 2022
11 • December
2021 / January
2022 • £6.50
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Three additional confirmed The Hublot Poloteams Goldhave Cup been Gstaad teams:for the Polo Rider Cup 2022: Araucaria Polo Club will comprise of Fabio Meier Luca Nero Meier(1) (1), Hublot (14): Rupert Knauf (0), Gonzalo Pieres (7),(1), Alfonso Fabian Bolanterio (4)(6) & Adrian Laplacette (6); Polo Club Niederweiden will & Bautista Beguerie compete in The Polo Rider Cup for the(2), firstAntonio time, with four Grabosh brothers Kielder Agro Group (14): Juan Pepa Manzano (0), (Paul, and Emil/Michl) competing Santi Schweitzer; the ManuelAnton Fernandez Llorente (6) & Horacioalongside Fernandez Llorente (6) Preußischer Polo & Country Club Berlin Brandenburg line-up will be: GstaadCall Palace (14): Markus Graeff (0), Thommy Graeff (3), our friendly subscriptions team: 01452Kutlay 730 770 Yaprak (0),Loza Max(7) Bosch (3),visit Valentin Novillo Astrada (6) & Moritz Gädeke (3). Santiago & Facundo Kelly (4) Team Preußischer Polo & Country Club Berlin Brandenburg or www.polotimes.co.uk Albinati Aeronautics (14): Luca Meier (1), Fabio Meier (1), Adrian Laplacette (6) & Facundo Retamar (6) Michael Berkeley with his new book Polo King of Sports
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TRIPLE CROWN RESULTS Hurlingham & Argentine Open Finals SUPA UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE 50 Youth Teams Compete
THE EGYPT ARMY POLO HACKETT British TOUR Army in Cairo
PLUS: Equine Injury
RESULTS TRIPLE CROWN Open Finals Hurlingham & Argentine CHALLENGE SUPA UNIVERSITY 50 Youth Teams Compete POLO TOUR THE EGYPT ARMY in Cairo Army HACKETT British Nutrition Review PLUS: Equine Injury
Prevention, Christmas
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Prevention, Christmas
Workout & 2021
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TRIPLE CROWN RESULTS Hurlingham & Argenti ne Open Finals SUPA UNIVERSITY 50 Youth Teams CompeCHALLENGE te THE EGYPT ARMY POLO TOUR HACKETT British Army in Cairo
PLUS: Equine Injury
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Big
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Feeling the Heat There’s no doubt this summer has been a scorcher and everyone is feeling the heat. Umpire Danny Muriel takes a short siesta between chukkas as the sun beats down on a sizzling hot tournament day. Pony welfare has been at the forefront of everyone’s minds as the heatwave continues with shortened chukkas, extra changes and plenty of safety measures and restrictions put in place to keep our four-legged friends safe in the sun. But what about our hard-working umpires, slaving away in the sun chukka after chukka? We vote enforced power naps and World Cup style hydration breaks between games to keep them well-rested and sharp. w Photograph by Michael Berkeley
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The DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup
A Royal
Success O
The Philanthropic Venture
n Friday 10 July, The Prince of Wales took to the sun-drenched Castle Ground at Flemish Farm (part of Guards Polo Club) to play in The DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup, with Windsor Castle providing a spectacular backdrop to one of the most unique events in the polo calendar. We wanted to get behind the scenes of this exclusive day, so we caught up with the unofficial ambassador of royal polo, Karl Ude-Martinez – a voice many will recognise from his commentary of The Gold Cup and other major polo events across the UK and around the world. Karl has supported the Royal Charity Polo Day for around 15 years, initially as a commentator before his boyish charm and professionalism saw him expanding his role to Master of Ceremonies, auctioneer and host. “I’ve probably been involved with these Royal Charity Polo Days for around 15 years now, maybe even a little longer. I also work on a number of other royal events throughout the year, but the Royal Charity Polo Day is really the flagship occasion. It’s a fantastic event because it brings the whole polo community together in a mix of philanthropy and sporting action, raising significant funds for some incredibly worthwhile causes.” The Prince and Princess of Wales are at the
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Polo Times, August 2026
centre of the event both from a sporting and a charitable perspective. Together they select ten charities each year that benefit from the event’s fundraising activities. All ten are organisations with a personal significance or causes close to their hearts. “The aim of the day is to raise as much money as possible for them. Funds come from a live auction, a silent auction and private donations, with some fantastic prizes generously provided by sponsors, partners, players and supporters. It’s remarkable how much can be raised in a single afternoon. “In recent years, DMMI has become the title partner, while U.S. Polo Assn. has played an increasingly prominent role over the last few years, sponsoring the team Prince William played for, for the third consecutive year. It’s a great fit. “On the day itself, my role is to host proceedings. I welcome guests, introduce the charities and partners, interview players, keep the audience informed throughout the day and generally ensure everything runs smoothly. It’s also an opportunity to highlight the work of Guards Polo Club and recognise the support of key partners, including DMMI and its chairman, David Matsumoto, whose contribution to polo has been significant over recent years.” This year’s event raised an incredible
The DMMI Royal Charity Cup sends total raised over £15 million mark
Photography by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
Feature
Emcee, auctioneer and host for the day, Karl Ude-Martinez is one of the most recognisable personalities on the international polo scene
£1 million, to be shared between Wales Air Ambulance, The Royal College of Paramedics, Shout, Ty Hafan, Forward Trust, Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Maternal Mental Health Alliance, We Are Farming Minds, The Passage and the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity. The total raised by Royal Charity Polo Days over the past 15 years has now surpassed £15 million, underlining the power of polo to make a genuine difference.
The Sporting Action
Once the fundraising is complete, the focus shifts to the polo itself, with everyone heading out to enjoy a fantastic afternoon of action on the Castle Ground.” “I move into commentating and hosting the polo. This year the tournament was played as a round robin between three teams, and the U.S. Polo Assn. team, led by The Prince of Wales alongside Mark Tomlinson, came out on top to successfully defend last year’s title.” For Karl, however, the greatest pleasure is watching The Prince of Wales take to the field. “We’re incredibly fortunate whenever both The Prince and Princess of Wales are able to attend. Their diaries are unbelievably busy, especially at this time of year, so having them both there is a real logistical achievement. More importantly, their www.polotimes.co.uk
The DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup
Feature
presence brings enormous attention to the charities the day supports. “For Prince William, opportunities to play are few and far between. His schedule simply doesn’t allow him to practise regularly, so he’ll often arrive, get on a horse, play the match and head straight to his next engagement. Despite that, he reads the game exceptionally well. He defends brilliantly, times his backhands beautifully and always seems to know where the ball is going next. Considering how little he plays, it’s genuinely impressive. “He’s also very competitive. People sometimes assume the other players go easy on him, but they don’t. They ride him off, hook him and make him earn everything, exactly as they would anyone else. That’s how he likes it. “You can see how much he enjoys being out there. He always has a smile on his face and, if time allowed, I know he’d love to play more. “Before play begins, The Prince and Princess spend time meeting representatives from each of the charities, along with players, partners and sponsors. Afterwards, everyone comes together again for the prize presentation. “The Princess presents the prizes before William joins her on stage. It’s a lovely moment because he can simply be himself. He’ll hug her, kiss her, share a laugh with the players and enjoy the occasion. It’s the perfect end to the day.”
The Royal Involvement
Photograph by Chris Jackson
Karl has worked alongside the Royal Charity Polo Day for long enough to appreciate the moments the public rarely sees. “One thing that always stands out is how gracious he is. He always comes over afterwards to say thank you, not just to me, but to everyone who has helped organise the event. He makes a point of thanking the people behind the scenes, and I think that says a lot about him. “We had a quick laugh after the match. I told him he and Mark Tomlinson had made a great team, and he joked, ‘Maybe we should bring James Beim back instead!’ It’s that sort of relaxed polo banter you see throughout the day. He’s completely at ease, enjoying himself with friends he’s grown up playing polo with.” For Karl, that is what makes the Royal Charity Polo Cup so special. “You can tell Prince William genuinely loves playing polo, and this gives him the opportunity to combine that passion with raising awareness and vital funds for charities that mean so much to him and the Princess. He looks completely in his element.” Polo has always been part of The Prince’s life. He grew up around the sport, following in the footsteps of his father, grandfather and generations before them. That family tradition is still very much alive. For one afternoon each year, The Prince of Wales is more than a royal figurehead. He is a teammate, a competitor and a passionate polo player, using the sport he loves to make a tangible difference. Few sporting events combine tradition, philanthropy and world-class polo quite so seamlessly as The DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup.
HRH The Prince of Wales celebrates the victory and the success of the day with HRH The Princess of Wales
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Polo Times, August 2026
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Feature
The DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup
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Photograph by Chris Jackson
Where: Guards Polo Club, Windsor
MVP U.S. Polo Assn. Team, winners of The DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup
Rafi Bruckner
BPP Chechu ridden by HRH The Prince of Wales
The DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup Teams U.S. Polo Assn. Team: HRH The Prince of Wales Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha Amr Zedan Mark Tomlinson Mirror Polo Team Sarkis Gabrelian Raj Jain Rafi Bruckner Nico Roberts Manta Marine Technologies - La Ilusión Polo Club Mohamed Ndao James Beh Garvy Beh Ivan Rubinich
Photograph by Chris Jackson
The Castle Ground’s iconic backdrop of Windsor Castle hosted The DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup
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www.polotimes.co.uk
Feature
Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
The DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup
The Prince of Wales, at home in the saddle, looks back for the pass up from teammate and friend Mark Tomlinson
Photograph by Chris Jackson
There’s no denying the competitive streak that comes out on the field
The Prince and Princess of Wales with big smiles on their faces as they clearly enjoy the day
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Polo Times, August 2026
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Photograph by Mark Beaumont
Gaston winners of the Cowdray Gold Cup L-R: Cruz Heguy, Beltrán Laulhé, Jean-Paul Luksic & Gonzalo Ferrari
Photograph by Mark Beaumont
Gaston win The St. Regis British Open Polo Championship Sunday 19th July 2026 Cowdray Polo Club
Reports
The British Open Polo Championship for The Cowdray Gold Cup
FINA
The Day
Gaston completed a remarkable rise to The St. Regis British Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup title, defeating six-time champions Dubai Polo Team 9-8 in a pulsating Final on Sunday 19 July that showcased the very best of high goal polo. On a beautiful, blue-sky day that has become almost to be expected in this sizzling UK summer, thousands gathered at Cowdray Park Polo Club to enjoy a thrilling day of Finals action. Having enjoyed the Ladies British Open Final, won by Yaguara earlier in the day, the climax of the action took place in the afternoon after picnics had been hoovered, shopping villages raided and outfits shown off and admired.
23 19 JU
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Where: Cowdray Park Polo Club, Midhurst
The Teams
Gaston’s unexpected victory was the culmination of years of steady progress for patron Jean Paul Luksic. Having played in England for 12 seasons across every level of the game, the Chilean has gradually built Gaston into a genuine high goal contender. Now in just their third season competing at this level, the organisation reached its first Gold Cup Final and, despite arriving as underdogs against one of the sport’s most established teams, produced their finest performance when it mattered most. Part of Gaston’s strength lies in its balance. With three 7 goalers – Gonzalo Ferrari, Beltrán Laulhé and Cruz Heguy – responsibility is shared evenly across the field, leaving no obvious weakness for opponents to exploit. Their expansive, side-to-side style of attack is matched by relentless pressure in defence, creating a system in which every player contributes equally. That balance was tested throughout the tournament. Injury to Pelón Stirling forced several changes to the line-up, with Gonzalo Ferrari and Juano Britos both stepping in at different stages of the competition. Any disruption, however, was barely noticeable. Gaston lost only once on their route to the Final before producing their standout display against previously unbeaten Dubai. Their achievement becomes even more impressive considering the calibre of the opposition. Dubai, one of polo’s great organisations, were chasing a seventh Gold Cup title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2001, 2009, 2012, 2018, 2022 and 2024. The Final also highlighted the sport’s exciting new generation. Santos Merlos, Beltrán Laulhé, Bartolomé Castagnola Jr. and cousins Cruz and Antonio Heguy are all under the age of 25, yet already among the leading players in world polo. Between them, their surnames represent some of the sport’s greatest dynasties.
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Polo Times, August 2026
Ferrari and Castagnola battle for possession
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The British Open Polo Championship for The Cowdray Gold Cup
Reports
The whole organisation behind Gaston celebrates with huge smiles and fireworks
From Underdogs to
Top Dogs
Dynasty and destiny play out at Cowdray as Gaston Polo Team take home the gold www.polotimes.co.uk
Polo Times, August 2026
17
Reports
The British Open Polo Championship for The Cowdray Gold Cup
The Action
The match exploded into life as Cruz Heguy, who entered the Final as the tournament’s leading scorer with 41 goals, converted Gonzalo Ferrari’s pinpoint pass before Ferrari himself doubled Gaston’s lead. Dubai immediately responded through Bartolomé Castagnola Jr., whose penalty conversion sparked a breathtaking contest that never lost intensity. Neither side was able to establish clear control as the momentum swung throughout the afternoon. Gaston repeatedly found answers through the open field, while Dubai relied heavily on the exceptional combination of Castagnola and Santos Merlos. Ferrari’s spectacular long-range strike and Beltrán Laulhé’s decisive brace kept Gaston narrowly in front throughout the match, before Cruz Heguy added what proved to be the winning goal in the closing stages. The statistics reflected just how evenly contested the Final was. Gaston edged Dubai 16-15 in shots and won more throw-ins (12-10), but the decisive difference came from open play. Gaston scored all nine of their goals from the field, while Dubai managed five field goals and relied on three successful penalties. Gaston’s willingness to attack from open play ultimately proved the difference in a match of the highest quality.
Dubai continued to fight until the final seconds. Castagnola produced one last dazzling run aboard his black mare Alberta Yarará, weaving through defenders before seeing his equalising attempt drift agonisingly wide. With time almost expired, Ferrari intelligently retained possession, driving towards goal before his final effort struck the post, but also struck gold just as the bell sounded, sealing Gaston’s historic first Gold Cup triumph. Cruz Heguy was deservedly named Most Valuable Player, while Castagnola’s outstanding Alberta Yarará, played in the final chukka, received the Best Playing Pony award. The victory also represented a full-circle moment for one of polo’s greatest families. The Heguy name has been synonymous with the Gold Cup since great-grandfather Antonio Heguy won the inaugural tournament with Los Indios in 1956. Seventy years later, the next generation took centre stage as cousins Cruz and Antonio Heguy faced each other in England’s biggest match. For Cruz, lifting the trophy carried even greater significance, coming exactly 30 years after his father, Eduardo “Ruso” Heguy, won the Gold Cup, ensuring another chapter was added to one of the sport’s most remarkable legacies.
Huge crowds gathered at Cowdray Park Polo Club to watch the polo event of the season
Photography by Mark Beaumont
BPP Alberta Yarará, played by Bartolomé Castagnola 18
Polo Times, August 2026
Jason Dixon & Henry Fisher (Third man: Tim Bown)
Ferrari with the huge shot up the boards
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The British Open Polo Championship for The Cowdray Gold Cup
Photograph by Mark Beaumont
MVP
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Cruz Heguy flat out down Lawns to goal
Cruz Heguy
Turn to our Sidelines pages for social snaps from the Final
The St. Regis British Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup Final Teams
Gaston Jean-Paul Luksic Beltrán Laulhé Gonzalo Ferrari Cruz Heguy
(21) (0) (7) (7) (7)
Dubai (22) Tariq Albwardy (0) Santos Merlos (6) Antonio Heguy (7) Bartolomé Castagnola Jr. (9)
Chukka scores: 2-0, 3-2, 5-4, 7-6, 8-7, 9-8 to Gaston
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Father and son hug having won the same title 30 years apart
Polo Times, August 2026
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The British Open Polo Championship for The Cowdray Gold Cup
The Aftermath
We caught up with the victors after the match (before they all rushed off to catch the World Cup Final – and while they were still in a good mood before it...) to find out what they had to say about the match and winning the biggest tournament of the UK season:
Gonzalo Ferrari – 7 goals, number 2:
More importantly, we had fun out there. We enjoyed ourselves and played good polo, and I think that’s one of the reasons we won.”
Ferrari joined the team late, but made a huge impact on the side and their success in the run up to the Final and the match itself, clicking well with his teammates and making it look like he was always meant to complete the side.
Watching the match and the team dynamic, it was like you were always meant to be there. “Thank you. Pelón’s horses were incredible and the whole organisation was outstanding.”
First of all, congratulations. How are you feeling? “I’m really happy. To be honest, it still hasn’t quite sunk in that we’ve won The Gold Cup.” You weren’t originally supposed to play in this team, were you? “No. I played the Queen’s Cup because Pelón (Stirling) was injured. In the Gold Cup, Juano [Britos] played a few matches at the start, but once my own team had been knocked out, I joined them for the last league game, the Quarter Final, the Semi Final and now the Final. It’s all thanks
to Pelón and the team for trusting me, and to his organisation for giving me the opportunity. But I also feel like it’s my title because I played so many matches, so I’m absolutely delighted.” The team seemed to click really well. “Yes. Cruz and I played together last year for Gaston with Jean-Paul alongside Sapo and we had a fantastic season. I’ve played plenty of tournaments with Beltrán as well, with Altamira, and also with Gastón, his father. I have great chemistry with all of them, and I think that showed today.
How was it out there? It was obviously a very tough match. “Absolutely. You’re playing against Dubai, with the organisation they have, plus Barto, who’s playing unbelievable polo, and Antonio and Santos, who have had such a great season. To beat a team like that is a huge achievement.” Did you feel like you came into the match with no pressure? “Yes, I really enjoyed it. I played completely free of pressure.”
Cruz Heguy – 7 goals, number 4: It was an important Final for Cruz Heguy for many reasons, carrying the history of his family’s success in the tournament through to a win and also winning the Most Valuable Player award surrounded by family (both on and off the field) left him with a huge smile. We caught up with him between hugging his cousins, uncles and father.
How does it feel to lift that trophy surrounded by family and such a crowd? “It feels incredible. It’s a dream come true. To win The Gold Cup with all my family here watching and with a team I’m so close to, and Jean-Paul who has been such a close friend to the family for so many years, is something really special. It’s an incredible feeling, and the atmosphere today was unbelievable. The crowd and the way they got behind the match made it even more memorable.” Your family played a big part today as well? “Absolutely. Nachi [Heguy, Cruz’s uncle] was coaching, Pelón was there, my dad was around too – my family was everywhere. I have to thank all of them, and everyone behind the scenes: the grooms, the organisation and the whole support team. None of this would be possible without them.” You were named Most Valuable Player. What does that mean to you? “It’s a really special honour, but I think it was a complete team performance. We all played well. Personally, it’s a great confidence boost, but the most important thing is that we won The Gold Cup, that is what we worked towards all together.”
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It was such a close Final. Were you expecting it to be so tight? “We knew it was always going to be close. Finals are usually decided by one or two goals, so we expected that. Fortunately, apart from a brief spell early on, we were able to stay in front for most of the game. We played well consistently throughout the six chukkas and that made the difference in the end.” How will you celebrate? “We probably won’t celebrate until after the Argentina match. I’m a huge Argentina fan and I’m already thinking about the World Cup Final. We’ll all watch it together with Antonio and the whole family which at the end of the day is the most important thing. Hopefully it will be a double celebration”
I can’t thank both of them enough. They were fantastic, they gave everything for the team and fully committed to the shirt whenever they were called upon. Gonza also played the whole Queen’s Cup with us, so he was a big part of our season. “Our expectations didn’t really start to kick in until we got to the knockout stages. As the tournament went on, our confidence kept growing and we realised we were functioning well as a team and playing good polo as a four. I think after the Quarter Final we really started believing we had a chance of winning The Gold Cup.”
At the start of the tournament, did you expect to win with a team that was changing throughout the competition? “Honestly, we didn’t know what to expect because we never really knew who would be playing. During the first few matches, we often didn’t know until the day before whether it would be Gonza or Juano.
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The British Open Polo Championship for The Cowdray Gold Cup
Beltran Lauhle – 7 goals, number 3: Lauhle is one of the most exciting players out there. Winner of The Gold Cup in 2024 with this year’s rivals, Dubai, he is experienced beyond his years, and this shows through in both his cool, calm and collected playing style and his post-match analysis. An old head on young shoulders, he answers questions with a sageness you wouldn’t expect at his age.
Congratulations. That was an incredible tournament and a fantastic Final. How are you feeling? “I’m really happy. It was an unbelievable match and such a tough tournament, so I’m delighted we’ve managed to win it.”
Dubai never allowed you to relax for a second. “No, it was an incredibly difficult game. They’ve played in so many Finals and won so many tournaments. It was a great match to be part of and I think we played some really good polo, so I’m very pleased.”
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How did you deal with the pressure and stay focused throughout? “Fortunately, that’s something I enjoy. I see it as a privilege. As a polo player, there isn’t a better place to be than playing in a Gold Cup Semi Final or Final. The key is to enjoy it. During the week you do everything you can to make sure the horses are ready and you’re prepared yourself. Once the game starts, you have to enjoy the occasion and play your best polo.” How are you going to celebrate? “First we’re going to watch Argentina in the World Cup Final all together, and hopefully celebrate again if they win. We’ve already won one of the hardest tournaments in the world to win, so we’ll enjoy that first.”
Gaston raise the Gold Cup for the first time having beaten six times champions Dubai
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Polo Times, August 2026
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The British Beach Polo Championships
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10 11 JUL
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Where: Sandbanks, Poole
A Shore Thing Back-to-back wins for Mirabeau in The British Beach Polo Championships
The British Beach Polo Championships returned to Sandbanks over 10 – 11 July
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Photography by James Bridle
The British Beach Polo Championships
Friendly rivalry, Jimmy Wood and Adolfo Casabal are all smiles as they head into the Final
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aison Mirabeau were crowned British Beach Polo Champions once again after defeating 1664 Blanc 7-6 in a thrilling SandPolo 2026 Final on the beaches of Sandbanks on Saturday 11 July. More than 7,500 spectators gathered over the two days of polo and social action that ran from 10 – 11 July. Britain’s premier beach polo event combines entertaining polo with top tier hospitality and live music all in the beautiful coastal surroundings of Dorset. The Championship Final proved a fitting climax to two days of outstanding polo. Chris Gregory, Tomy Ruiz Guiñazu and Adolfo Casabal of Maison Mirabeau edged Jimmy Wood, Garrie Renucci and Marcus Cork of 1664 Blanc in a fiercely contested match that went down to the wire. The match showcased everything that makes beach polo such an exciting spectacle. The firm beach arena rewarded accurate passing, quick acceleration and committed riding-off, producing an exhilarating contest that could have gone either way, right up until the final bell. Now in its 19th year, SandPolo once again combined high-quality polo with hospitality and live entertainment, including performances from The Brand New Heavies, Craig Charles, The Vamps and Peter Andre. The famous SandPolo afterparties ensured the celebrations continued long after the final trophy had been presented, as guests watched the sun set over Old Harry Rocks. The weekend also raised thousands of pounds for the Alzheimer’s Society, a charity that lies close to the heart of the SandPolo organisers as their chosen charity partner. Event Director Johnny Wheeler said: “The standard of polo over the two days has been exceptional. Every player embraced the unique challenge of beach polo and produced a final worthy of the occasion. Seeing more than 7,500 people enjoying polo on Sandbanks is exactly what SandPolo is all about. For many, it was their first experience of the sport, and the enthusiasm from the crowds throughout the weekend was simply incredible.” SandPolo will return on 9–10 July 2027 for the 20th anniversary of the British Beach Polo Championships.
The action continued even after the final whistle blew
BPP Pomelo, played by Jimmy Wood
The 2026 British Beach Polo Championships Teams
Maison Mirabeau Tomy Ruiz Guimazu Adolfo Casabal Chris Gregory
10 5 4 1
1664 Blanc Jimmy Wood Garrie Renucci Marcus Cork
11 6 1 4
Maison Mirabeau, winners of the 2026 British Beach Polo Championships
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The Polo Nations Cup
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Where: Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly, France
Viva Italia! Italy triumphant in their third Polo Nations Cup attempt
Third time’s the charm for Italy in The Polo Nations Cup BARNES
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chukka. With the scores level at 6-6 heading into the final period, the title was still anyone’s to win before Italy found another gear in a tense closing chukka to seal a dramatic one-goal victory. Tomás Delfino, later named the game’s Most Valuable Player, credited the win to Italy’s aggressive start and ability to adapt as the match developed. “We wanted to put them under pressure from the very beginning,” he said. “Then, once the game opened up a little and they came back at us, we started moving the ball better again and tightened up defensively. That’s when we regained control of the match.” For team captain Riccardo Paganelli, the victory represented the culmination of a decade-long project. “We’ve been building this team for nearly ten years,” he reflected. “We started from scratch and this year we’ve finally achieved our goal.”
The Polo Nations Cup BARNES brings the curtain down on the first major chapter of Chantilly’s international grass season, with the Coquetier d’Or next on the calendar before Europe’s premier 16 goal tournament, the Open de France BARNES, returns in September.
Photography by Justine Jacquemot
he Polo Nations Cup BARNES has quickly established itself as one of Europe’s leading 12 goal international tournaments, bringing together regional and national representative teams for a unique celebration of competitive polo. Staged at the Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly, Europe’s largest polo club and home of the prestigious Open de France since 2001, the tournament forms part of Chantilly’s outstanding annual calendar of more than 60 tournaments. Set across 130 hectares with nine grass grounds and the headquarters of the French Polo Federation, Chantilly has become one of the world’s premier polo destinations. Nine teams took part in this year’s Polo Nations Cup, including line ups from around France, Switzerland, Belgium, Italy and Argentina. A true celebration of European polo blending with international polo. With the teams not only battling each other but also battling the fierce heatwave that swept Europe in early June, delays and postponements wreaked havoc on the already busy polo schedule and the Final was delayed due to horse safety measures in the extreme heat. When Finals day arrived after two close Semi Finals, it was well worth the wait. After finishing runners-up and Semi Finalists in the previous two editions of The Polo Nations Cup, Riccardo Paganelli’s Italian side finally delivered when it mattered most, defeating two-time defending champions Occitanie 9-8 in a close and dramatic Final to claim their first title at the Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly on Friday 3 July. Italy made the perfect start, racing into a 3-0 lead with the same high-pressure approach that had proved so successful in the Semi Finals. However, Occitanie responded superbly, overturning the deficit to edge in front by the end of the third
A true battle of the nations the French line up took on the Italian
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The Polo Nations Cup
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MVP
Tomás Delfino
The Polo Nations Cup BARNES Final Teams:
Italy Riccardo Paganelli Tomás Delfino Bautista Fanelli Jerónimo Fanelli
BPP
(12) (0) (5) (3) (4)
Occitanie (12) Isabelle Larenaudie (0) Elouan Badarello (2) Simón Zavaleta (6) Ramiro Zavaleta (4)
Chukka scores: 3-0, 4-2, 5-4, 6-6, 9-8 to Italy GT Troya owned and ridden by Simón Prado A close contest, Italy had to battle to the last second for the victory
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Polo Times, August 2026
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Victor Ludorum Update
Photograph by John Hankin
A tough ride off during a tough Final
Non-Stop
Victor & Victrix
Ludorum Action The latest results from every level
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Victor Ludorum Update
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he Victor and Victrix Ludorum tournaments are well underway with some teams already shining through as season stars. The action has been non-stop, the drama endless and the tension palpable as we head into the final few months of what has already been a memorable (if a little dry and toasty) summer season. Read on for coverage of all levels of the Victor and Victrix Ludorum tournaments and check out the results so far...
18 Goal Victor Ludorum
Cirencester Park Polo Club – The Hadleigh Apsley Cup Final – Tuesday 30 June Number of teams: Five Winners: Standing Rock The Hadleigh Apsley Cup culminated in an exciting Final between Standing Rock and Emlor on Tuesday 30 June at Cirencester Park Polo Club. One of the most traditional competitions of the Club which was itself established in 1894, saw five teams up to 18 goals, in participation. Emlor entered the Final as the defending champions, but Standing Rock proved to be too much for the 2025 title holders, overpowering the British led team to take the 9-7 win. From the start Standing Rock were strong, opening the scoring before Jack Hyde doubled the lead with a superb, fast-paced nearside goal. Emlor responded well, pulling one back just before the bell to end the chukka 2-1.
Hyde struck again early to extend Standing Rock’s advantage to 3-1 at the start of chukka two. Strong defensive play from both sides made clear scoring opportunities hard to come by, but the second half of the chukka came to life with another excellent nearside goal from Pierandrea Müller, making it 4-1. Emlor responded with some outstanding teamwork between Will Harper and Max Charlton to reduce the gap to 4-2. The intensity increased in a fiercely contested third chukka. Hyde completed his hattrick with yet another impressive nearside goal to make it 5-2, but Charlton answered quickly with a brilliant steal from the throw-in, followed by a determined solo run to score and bring Emlor to within two. Simon Prado also came close with an ambitious 100-yard attempt, while Emlor continued to build momentum through excellent teamwork and sustained pressure. Both teams produced defensive plays in the penultimate chukka, with several chances going
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narrowly wide. Emlor continued their comeback, scoring to make it 5-4 before McCarthy levelled the match at 5-5 with a superb run. Standing Rock were handed a chance to regain the lead, but Prado was unable to convert a crucial penalty. Everything was left to play for in a tensely fought final chukka. Standing Rock edged back in front, only for Charlton to calmly convert a penalty and level the scores once more at six apiece. Prado then produced a spectacular 100-yard goal to restore Standing Rock’s lead before O’Dwyer added another determined goal to seal the deal and an 8-6 victory. Outstanding teamwork and resilience throughout the match earned Standing Rock a well-deserved Apsley Cup triumph. Pierandrea Müller was awarded the Most Valuable Player honours after an impressive performance that solidified his team’s victory while Open Vedette, ridden by Simón Prado, earned the Best Playing Pony rug. The Hadleigh Apsley Cup Final Teams: Standing Rock (17): Pierandrea Müller (3), Jack Hyde (4), Jose Araya (5) & Paco O’Dwyer (5) Emlor (18): Spencer McCarthy (1), Will Harper (5), Max Charlton (6) & Matias Mac Donough (6)
Photograph by Tom Reynolds
Standing Rock, winners of The Apsley Cup
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Polo Times, August 2026
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Victor Ludorum Update
Indian Polo Day brought a vibrant celebration of colour, culture and top-class polo to Smith’s Lawn, as Windsor Great Park was transformed into a little piece of Jaipur for the day. Spectacular performances, dazzling costumes and a lively atmosphere provided the backdrop to two closely contested finals on The Queen’s Ground. Indian Polo Day began with a stand-out, 18 goal Final for The Indian Polo Challenge Shield. Jasmine Calvert-Ansari’s White Crane Black narrowly defeated Naveen Jindal’s Jindal Steel 9-8 to secure the mighty trophy. The young American Mackenzie Weisz, who had delivered an impressive game across five chukkas, scoring a handful of goals for White Crane Black, was named the Most Valuable Player. Meanwhile, Jindal Steel’s Isidro Strada received the Best Playing Pony prize for the stallion La Dolfina Casillas. These prizes were presented by the Maharaja of Jaipur and Gulfstream representatives Gavin Thompson and Ryan Nufrio.
Photography by Sam Churchill
Guards Polo Club – The Indian Polo Challenge Cup Final – Sunday 19 July Number of teams: Winners: White Crane Black
White Crane Black took the narrow win over Jindal Steel for the impressive Indian Polo Challenge Shield
The Indian Polo Challenge Shield Final Teams: White Crane Black (18): Jasmine Calvert-Ansari (0), Louis Hine (6), Mackenzie Weisz (6) & Felipe Dabas (6) Jindal Steel (18): Naveen Jindal (0), Kian Hall (4), Gonzalo Ferrari (7) & Isidro Strada (7)
15 Goal Victor Ludorum Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club – The Eduardo Moore Tournament Final – Sunday 12 July Number of teams: Six Winners: JamJar
Photography by Gillian Hughes
The 15 goal Eduardo Moore Tournament is named after Eduardo ‘Gordo’ Moore, a 10 goal Argentine who played in the UK during the 1960s through to the early 1980s and won The Gold Cup an impressive six times, The Coronation Cup three times and further afield Moore twice took home the Coupe d’Or in France.
The crowds who gathered for Indian Polo Day were treated to a high goal spectacle
The Final of The Eduardo Moore Tournament took place on Sunday 12 July at The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club. JamJar led throughout the game and headed into halftime with a strong 9-4 lead over Four Quarters, who, despite making a valiant comeback effort in the second half, were unable to diminish the early deficit. The match ended 12-10 with JamJar taking home the 15 goal trophy that forms part of the Victor Ludorum series. Marcos “Cacu” Araya was instrumental in his team’s victory and earned himself the Most Valuable Player honours while DS Naomi, played by Gonzalo Ferrari, won Best Playing Pony.
JamJar took home the win at Royal County for Berkshire Polo Club
The Eduardo Moore Final teams: JamJar (15): Adilla Jamaludin (0), Ollie Cudmore (5), Marcos Araya (6) & Juan Cruz Araya Martelli (4) Four Quarters (15): Simon Arber (0), Kian Hall (4), Thomas Ballesteros (4) & Gonzalo Ferrari (7)
In the air and through the goal for Four Quarters but not enough to seal the victory
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Victor Ludorum Update
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12 Goal Victor Ludorum
The Ailesbury Club Queen Mother Trophy, part of the 12 goal Victor Ludorum series, came to an exciting end on Saturday 11 July with the Final between Mad Dogs – Bajaj and Standing Rock. The match was incredibly close throughout with the teams well matched and well mounted and delivering an enthralling display of fast-paced, physical polo. From the opening throw-in to the final bell, neither side gave an inch in a game defined by relentless pressure, incredible defensive plays and a dramatic battle. The opening chukka set the tone for an evenly matched encounter. Both sides attacked with purpose while matching each other defensively, creating an intense end-to-end battle. After trading goals, the teams finished the first chukka at 1-1, with neither able to gain an early advantage. The second chukka became tactical as strong defensive pressure forced numerous penalties. However, both teams struggled to capitalise, with several attempts drifting wide of the posts. Crespa kept Mad Dogs in front by successfully converting one penalty, while Standing Rock’s defence produced one of the highlights of the match with a
Photograph by John Hankin
Cirencester Park Polo Club – The Ailesbury Club Queen Mother Trophy Final – Saturday 11 July Number of teams: 10 Winners: Mad Dogs - Bajaj
Vishwarupe Bajaj takes the ball to goal for winning side Mad Dogs - Bajaj
remarkable goal mouth save to deny what looked to be a certain score. Both sides continued to answer one another, leaving the scoreboard balanced once again at 2-2. Standing Rock threw everything forward in search of goals, creating promising attacking opportunities but failing to find the decisive finish. Mad Dogs, by contrast, were clinical when their chances came, adding two unanswered goals to establish a valuable 4-2 lead heading into the final chukka. In the final chukka, Standing Rock fought back. An honourable mention goes to Araya who ignited hopes with a spectacular under-the-neck shot drawing the scores level at 4-4. The drama continued as Bajay and Stuart traded goals, neither team willing to surrender the advantage, and the scoreboard remained at 5-5 as the final seconds ticked away.
Just when extra time seemed inevitable, Mad Dogs launched one last attack. With only 15 seconds remaining, Bajay seized possession, accelerated through the ground and scored victory. The final whistle confirmed a thrilling 6-5 win for Mad Dogs. In the subsidiary, Nelson took a close win 7-6 against Silvertown Properties in a passionate fight. The Ailesbury Club Queen Mother Trophy Final teams: Mad Dogs – Bajaj (12): Vishwarupe Bajaj (1), Alan Fall (0), Cesar Crespo (6) & William Emerson (5) Standing Rock (12): Leo Stuart (0), Segundo Darritchon (4), Santiago Araya (4) & Nacho Gonzalez (4)
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Polo Times, August 2026
Photograph by Tom Reynolds
Mad Dogs – Bajaj battled right up to the final whistle to take the win
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Victor Ludorum Update
8 Goal Victor Ludorum
Guards Polo Club – The Archie David Cup Final – Sunday 5 July Number of teams: 24 Winners: Monterosso
Photography by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
It had looked early on as if this Archie David Cup Final would be a more clear-cut affair. Monterosso was leading 3-0 at the end of the first chukka, and the team had extended its lead to 4-0 early into the second. However some strong team-work from Celestino Merlos and Miguel Novillo-Astrada Jnr brought Tchogan right back into this game by halftime (4-3). Tchogan’s resurgence continued in the third, with Heiko Voelker’s team taking the lead and then adding some air to the score thanks to goals from Novillo-Astrada. Another Monterosso
Monterosso took the coveted Archie David Cup in extra chukka
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Monterosso take the ball to goal in a fast-paced 8 goal Final
penalty, just seconds before the end of chukka bell, helped them reduce the gap to just one goal (6-5) going into the fourth. More great play from Merlos and Novillo-Astrada gave Tchogan a two-goal advantage and suddenly Monterosso was playing catch up with only minutes left. Alessandro Bazzoni, who was later named the Most Valuable Player, sent up a great pass to Phil Seller who popped it through. Then just seconds before the bell Bazzoni delivered a nearside shot to equalise. Play continued for 30 seconds but with no further goals this game headed into extra time. It was déjà vu for Monterosso as this was their fourth overtime of the tournament! Seller had a great battle with Merlos and there was plenty of up-and-down play in the fifth. However, a 30-yard penalty in favour of
24 teams fought for The Archie David Cup this year
Monterosso brought this game to a close. Bazzoni fired through the winner, ensuring Monterosso’s name is added to the Archie David Cup. NovilloAstrada received the Images of Polo Best Playing Pony prize for Will Emerson’s Dolly. The Subsidiary Final, played earlier in the day, was an equally competitive affair. Mad Dogs – St Jean won this tussle against Tempest 5-4. However, with 24 teams in this eight-goal mix just reaching the final stages of this prestigious tournament is an achievement. The Archie David Cup Final Teams: Monterosso (8): Alessandro Bazzoni (0), Olimpo Taverna (1), Phil Seller (2) & Miguel Ayala (4) Tchogan (8): Heiko Voelker (0), Celestino Merlos (2), Max Voelker (2) & Miguel Novillo-Astrada Jr (4) www.polotimes.co.uk
Victor Ludorum Update
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Big celebrations for Standing Rock
Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club – The Julian & Howard Hipwood Final – Saturday 18 July Number of teams: Six Winners: Standing Rock
6 Goal Victor Ludorum Binfield Heath Polo Club – The Phillimore Trophy Final – Sunday 12 July Number of teams: Six Winners: Coppid Owls Despite the hot conditions on Sunday 12 July, spectators enjoyed an entertaining and competitive polo match for the Final of The Phillimore Trophy as Coppid Owls claimed a well-earned 6-4 victory over Mount Loftus. Both teams produced fastpaced, determined polo throughout, but Coppid Owls maintained their composure and took their chances at key moments to secure the win. Mount Loftus battled hard and kept the pressure on until the final chukka, but Coppid Owls’ teamwork and consistent play proved decisive. Tamara Fox delivered an outstanding performance, earning the Most Valuable Player Award for her skill, leadership, and influence across the field. The Best Playing Pony accolade was awarded to Nellie, expertly ridden by Tamara Fox and owned by JP Clarkin, after an exceptional display of athleticism, responsiveness, and stamina in the demanding heat. Wildcats took the Subsidiary Final with a 5-4 win over Honey Badgers while Los Quirones defeat Wildebeest for the Subsidiary 2 trophy.
Photography courtesy of Binfield Heath Polo Club
The Julian & Howard Hipwood Final Teams: Standing Rock (8): Ralph Robson (0), Matteo Fernandez Castagnola (0), Segundo Darritchon (4) & Nacho Gonzalez (4) Desert Knights (8): Turki Abdul Rahman (0), George Copcutt (1), Abhimanyu Pathak (3) & Antonino Menard (4)
Standing Rock continued their winning streak this season with a win against Turki Abdul Rahman’s Desert Knights team in the Final of The Julian & Howard Hipwood Final on Saturday 18 July. A strong performance from the well-oiled Standing Rock organisation saw them triumph 11-7 over Desert Knights having overcome all other five teams in the run up to the Final. Matteo Fernandez Castagnola put in a particularly strong performance, playing well above his years and handicap to earn himself the Most Valuable Player awards while Segundo Darritchon’s pony Segundo took home the Best playing Pony rug after playing beautifully and helping to secure the victory.
The Phillimore Trophy Final Teams: Coppid Owls (6): Tristan Phillimore (1), Izabel Fall (0), Tamara Fox (1) & Mickey Henderson (4) Mount Loftus (6): Georgina Brittain (0), Indalecio Pieres (1), Benji Mancini (2) & Jonny Good (3)
Coppid Owls and Mount Loftus line up after an exciting Final
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Photography by Gillian Hughes
Segundo Darritchon’s Serena takes home the Best Playing Pony rug
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Victor Ludorum Update
4 Goal Super League Victor Ludorum
Toulston Polo Club – The Silver Jubilee 4 Goal VL Final – Sunday 28 June Number of teams: Four Winners: Hardmoor Stud Toulston Polo Club hosted the Northern League 4 Goal VL and ran it alongside their flagship Silver Jubilee Tournament welcoming 10 teams across the two levels. Over 500 guests gathered throughout the weekend to enjoy the polo and the fiesta themed party in the evening. The sun was out, and the play was just as hot with all teams putting on a great show for the packed gallery. Hardmoor Stud retained the title they won last year, taking the 4 Goal VL win against Knight Frank 7-4. Marcus Speed was awarded the Most Valuable Player honours while Give Me Some Sugar, owned and ridden by Grant Collett was awarded the Best Playing Pony Rug. Catfoss beat Toulston 6-4 in the Subsidiary Final. Photography by Action Stills Photography
Hardmoor winners of the Toulston 4 Goal VL
Give Me Some Sugar looking glorious in her Best Playing Pony rug
Silver Leys – The Silver Leys Cup Final – Sunday 12 July Number of teams: Three Winners: MHA Winged Hussars MHA Winged Hussars beat Dart Polo 5-8 in an exciting, if a little one-sided Final on Sunday 12 July. The MHA Winged Hussars, who have had
The Silver Jubilee 4 Goal VL Final Teams: Hardmoor Stud (4): Florence Golder (-1), Timothy Rose (0), Marcus Speed (2) & Grant Collett (3) Knight Frank (4): Garath Meikle (3), Corey Meikle (2), Adam Cutler (-1) & James Farrell (0)
great success so far in the 4 goal circuit, were led once again by vet and 3 goaler, Harold Hodges whose clever ball control skills and tough riding helped solidify his team’s dominant victory over Dart Polo. Harold also took home the Best Playing Pony rug for his mare Gigi.
The Silver Leys Cup Final Teams: MHA Winged Hussars (3): Filipe Lepri Kaczynski (-2), Ben Crookes (1), Sam Wisbey (1) & Harold Hodges (3) Dart Polo (3): Henry Morris (0), Angus Marsh (0), David Banner-Eve (1) & Dean Lines (2)
MHA Winged Hussars take their second 4 goal win at Silver Leys
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Photography courtesy of Chloe Butlin
Harold Hodges son mounted on Best Playing Pony Gigi
Victor Ludorum Update
Photography by Santiago Young
Reports
Victrix Ludorum Guards Polo Club – The Guards Ladies 22 Goal Final – Saturday 5 July Number of teams: Three Winners: Salty Polo Madison Rochlin’s Salty Polo narrowly won the Ladies Victrix Ludorum 22-Goal Tournament at Guards Polo Club in early July. They beat Martina Lowe’s Yagura by their half-goal handicap advantage, 31/2-3. In fact these teams were so evenly matched that it never really got going. There were some fabulous runs to goal from both sides but they failed to convert some strong play into goals. Nina Clarkin, captain of the Salty Polo team and the highest handicapped player on the field, was the first to score, while Martina was able to put Yaguara on the scoreboard in the first chukka too. Madison added to Salty Polo’s tally in the second, but Yaguara struggled to find the flags in this chukka.
Milly Hine vs Nina Clarkin
Catalina Lavinia vs Mia Cambiaso
However, it was all change in the next two chukkas. Yaguara’s captain Milly Hine scored twice to none in reply from Salty Polo. So it was Yaguara who headed into the fifth and final chukka with a narrow advantage (3-21/2). This advantage did not last long as Nina converted a penalty early into the chukka. Although both teams had more chances to add to their scores, Nina’s shot was the only goal of the chukka and ensured Salty Polo won the match. Salty Polo’s Catalina Lavinia was later named The Most Valuable Player while Mia Cambiaso, who was playing alongside her younger sister Myla in the Yaguara team, received the Polo Times Best Playing Pony prize for Leonor. Salty Polo with their second 22 goal win of the season
The Guards Ladies 22 Goal Final Teams: Salty Polo (22): Madison Rochlin (1), Isabella Lavinia (4), Catalina Lavinia (7) & Nina Clarkin (10) Yaguara (22): Martina Lowe (NR), Myla Cambiaso (4), Mia Cambiaso (9) & Milly Hine (9)
A beautiful back drop to the fast-paced action on Castle Ground
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Victor Ludorum Update
Reports
Hurtwood Polo Club – The Aspect Cup Ladies 16 Goal Final – Sunday 6 July Number of teams: Four Winners: Tamodi Tamodi took on La Alegria in the Final of this year’s Aspect Cup Ladies 16 Goal in a rematch of one of the earlier league games where Tamodi came out on top. Four teams battled it out throughout the week with some fantastic matches and lovely team polo on display. All the games were tightly fought affairs, and the Final could not have been closer! Tamodi featuring one of Argentina’s leading lady players Lia Salvo, South African Ashleigh Muddle and Brits Holly Masson and Beanie Bradley created some lovely team plays throughout the tournament with a mix of great marking and fast open play to take them unbeaten in to the Final. La Alegria, featuring the mother and daughter duo of Anna and Tatiana Menshenina were accompanied by British players Lottie Lamacraft and Sarah Wiseman, narrowly lost to Tamodi in the league stages by a goal. Tamodi started strongly in the Final taking a convincing lead 3-1 at halftime with some spectacular individual goals from Ashleigh Muddle and Beanie Bradley. La Alegria fought back hard and managed to tie things up in the 4th chukka with a goal from Lottie Lamacraft. With the scores tied at 4-4 spectators were treated to an extra chukka. It was Ashleigh Muddle that found the goal for team Tamodi scoring her third of the day. With Tamodi crowned the victors, Ashleigh was rewarded with the Most Valuable Player prize and Peach Iced Tea owned by Lila Pearson and played by Lia Salvo was awarded Best Playing Pony.
Action in the Final as Sarah Wiseman heads to goal for La Alegria
The Aspect Cup Ladies 16 Goal Final Teams: Tamodi (15): Holly Masson (0), Ashleigh Muddle (3), Beanie Bradley (4) & Lia Salvo (8) La Alegria (15): Tatiana Menshenina (0), Anna Menshenina (2), Lottie Lamacraft (7) & Sarah Wiseman (6)
Photography by Ryan Cox
Ashleigh Muddle was awarded MVP for her key performance, hat-trick and golden goal
Tamodi crowned the winners after extra chukka thriller
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Polo Times, August 2026
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Reports
Victor Ludorum Update
Milly Hine with the nearside forehand down the field
It was a huge day for ladies’ polo as the sport took centre stage on one of the biggest days in the British polo calendar. For the first time, the British Ladies Open Championship Final was played on the same day and on the same ground as the St. Regis British Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup Final, allowing the thousands of spectators gathered at Cowdray Park Polo Club to witness two of the sport’s premier championships decided on the same day. The landmark occasion reflected the continued growth of women’s polo and Cowdray’s commitment to providing the biggest possible stage for the women’s game. Martine Hartridge, Managing Director of Cowdray Park Polo Club, said “Women’s polo is growing rapidly with more female players, teams and international talent competing than ever before. Gold Cup Day is such a celebration of polo and we felt it was the perfect opportunity to show the Club’s commitment to providing the biggest possible platform for female athletes and put even more great sport in front of a huge audience” Huge crowds gathered for the occasion, where the exciting talent of sisters Myla and Mia Cambiaso, combined with the experience of British star and current Warwickshire Cup title holder Milly Hine and team patron Martina Lowe, helped Yaguara claim the 2026 British Ladies Open Championship title with a thrilling 7-6½ victory over Salty Polo on Sunday 19 July. The British Ladies Open Championship, the premier ladies’ tournament in England, attracted eight teams competing up to 22 goals (ladies’ handicap), featuring many of the world’s leading female players, including 10 goalers Nina Clarkin, Hazel Jackson and Candelaria Fernandez Araujo, alongside 9 goalers Mia Cambiaso and Milly Hine. Both Finalists arrived in excellent form. Yaguara booked their place in the Final with a narrow 6-5½ victory over defending champions UAE, while Salty Polo defeated Oriflamme 8-4 in the other Semi Final. Salty Polo were aiming to complete a remarkable clean sweep of England’s 22-goal ladies’ tournaments, having already lifted The Cirencester Ladies 22 Goal and The Guards Ladies 22 Goal earlier in the season. 36
Polo Times, August 2026
Photography by Mark Beaumont
Cowdray Park Polo Club – The British Ladies Open Championship Final – Sunday 19 July Number of teams: Eight Winners: Yaguara
Yaguara raise the trophy high on a history-making day
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Victor Ludorum Update
Reports
Receiving the half-goal on handicap, Salty Polo made the stronger start in what quickly developed into a closely contested encounter, taking a 3½-1 lead at the end of the first chukka. Yaguara responded impressively in the second, scoring two goals to Salty’s one before repeating the feat in the third, while keeping their opponents scoreless to edge into a narrow 5-4½ lead heading into the Final chukka. The last chukka belonged to Yaguara. Salty Polo, spearheaded by world No.1 Nina Clarkin, pushed Yaguara all the way in a fast-paced, endto-end contest, but the Cambiaso sisters and Hine showcased their quality, combining brilliantly to outscore Salty Polo 2-1 while maintaining their half-goal handicap advantage to seal a deserved 7-6½ victory and the British Ladies Open Championship title. Milly Hine was named Most Valuable Player after another outstanding performance. “I couldn’t be prouder of the team and of our win,” she said. “These are without doubt the biggest crowds we have ever played in front of and doing it on the same day as the Gold Cup, at home and in front of family and friends, is super special.” The Best Playing Pony award went to Matuza Cassie, owned and played by Catalina Lavinia. On Saturday 18 July, Emita LL claimed the Subsidiary Final after defeating Cowdray Vikings in an extra chukka. The British Ladies Open Championship Final Teams: Yaguara (23): Martina Lowe (1), Myla Cambiaso (4), Mia Cambiaso (9) & Milly Hine (9) Salty Polo (22): Madison Rochlin (1), Bella Lavinia (4), Catalina Lavinia (7) & Nina Clarkin (10)
Smiles all round as Yaguara leave the field with the win Mia Cambiaso and Nina Clarkin race to the ball
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Polo Times, August 2026
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Club Focus
Cambridge & Newmarket Polo Club
Druids Lodge Polo Club
Canonbury were winners of the prestigious Balaclava Trophy 6 goal
Photograph by Mark Beaumont
Cambridge & Newmarket Polo Club hosted another successful East Anglian Air Ambulance fundraising event through their Charity Day on Saturday 18 July, raising more than £10,000 in support of the lifesaving charity. Hundreds of spectators enjoyed a packed day of polo and family entertainment, featuring three competitive matches, a junior exhibition game, equestrian displays, a family dog show, trade stands and children’s activities. The East Anglian Air Ambulance helicopter and crew were also on site, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the charity’s vital work. Perfect summer weather created a fantastic atmosphere as families gathered pitchside to enjoy the action.
A great way to thank the community that supports the season The Midhurst Town Cup
Cowdray Park Polo Club Sunday 28 June was the hugely popular Midhurst Town Cup, a family friendly Fete-esque event where all the residents of Midhurst and surrounding areas, who get their town invaded over the summer season by polo enthusiasts, are invited for free to enjoy a day of family fun including two Gold Cup matches (The Jack Gannon Cup, won by UAE Polo Team and The Midhurst Town Cup, won by La Hechicera), Roda polo, jousting displays, tractor rides, petting zoos and much more. The sun shone down as the huge 6,000 strong crowd gathered in the beautiful park to enjoy the festivities and watch the polo. The Stonehenge Polo Festival returned to Druids Lodge on Saturday 27 June, bringing a full day of polo, countryside entertainment and family activities to the Wiltshire countryside. A new Influencer Polo Challenge proved a popular addition, with social media personalities taking to the field under professional guidance. The Naomi & Jacks Blue Team won the match 2-1, helping introduce polo to a wider audience while supporting the festival’s Polo with Purpose initiative in aid of Naomi & Jacks, a charity, which provides expert hospice care for children, young adults and their families. Next up on the field, the British Army produced a strong performance to defeat the RAF 10-3, with Qadir, owned by Druids Lodge, named Best Playing Pony in The Sassoon Cup. Canonbury Yellow won the 2 goal match, beating New Forest 5-1½, while Canonbury Blue claimed the 6 goal Balaclava Trophy Final with a 5-3 victory over Coombe Place. Hugh Bate was named Most Valuable Player and Ludo, owned and played by Roddy Stanning, received Best Playing Pony. Away from the polo, guests enjoyed the Sparkling Divot Stomp, shopping village, Victorian fair and the Land Rover Defender versus Polo Pony race, won by SPIRE 4X4’s Defender.
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Polo Times, August 2026
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Photography by Michael Berkeley
The SPIRE 4x4 Land Rover Defender vs Polo Pony Race once again proved an irresistible crowd pleaser
Club Focus
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Guards Polo Club
Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
The Unity Cup saw friends from Lagos Polo Club take the trophy
Lagos Polo Club won the third edition of the Unity Cup 6-5 on Sunday 28 June in a close match on the Duke’s Ground. The Most Valuable Player was awarded to Tunde Karim and the Best Playing Pony was Julia played by Adebayo Karim.
The Jaipur Trophy Teams: Jaipur Polo Team: HH The Maharaja of Jaipur, Naveen Jindal, Simran Shergill & Will Emerson Guards Polo Club: Jaisal Singh, Kuldeep Singh Rathore, Bhawani Singh Kalvi & Juan Gris Zavaleta
Photograph by Sam Churchill
The Unity Cup teams: Lagos Polo Club (6): Seyi Tinubu (0), Usman Dantata (0), Bashir Dantata (3) & Eugenio Imaz (3) Guards Polo Club (5): Tunde Karim (0), Adebayo Karim (2), Noor Khadra (1) & Oliver Fanshawe (2) Another hugely busy weekend of polo at Guards Polo Club started on Saturday 4 July when Access Bank team won the 11th Access Bank Day defeating Fifth Chukker 7-6. Polo with Purpose was the theme as the annual event that celebrates the long-standing partnership between Access Bank, Fifth Chukker and UNICEF and the star-studded line ups included Barto Castagnola, Adolfo Cambiaso, Juan Martin Nero and Tomás Panelo. Jaipur Polo Team successfully retained the Jaipur Trophy at Guards Polo Club on Saturday 18 July, defeating the hosts 7-6 as part of Indian Polo Day presented by Gulfstream.
Featuring HH The Maharaja of Jaipur, Sawai Padmanabh Singh, the visitors were pushed all the way by a Guards side led by high-goal patron Jaisal Singh. After a closely contested opening half, Jaipur took a narrow 4-3 lead into the break before extending their advantage to two goals thanks to a spectacular long-range strike from Simran Shergill.
Guards fought back in the final chukka, with Jaisal Singh scoring his fourth goal of the match to reduce the deficit to one. However, Jaipur held firm through the closing stages to secure a hard-earned 7-6 victory and retain the historic trophy. Jaisal Singh was named Most Valuable Player, while his mare Movida received the Best Playing Pony award. Indian Polo Day also featured the 18 goal Indian Polo Challenge Shield (see our Victor Ludorum Round Up for the full report), cultural performances from Rajasthani dancers and musicians, and a display of a historic Rolls-Royce Phantom once owned by the Maharaja of Jaipur’s family, celebrating the enduring links between British and Indian polo. A truly spectacular, colourful day. See our Sidelines pages for the social images of the day.
The winning Jaipur Polo Team, victors of The Jaipur Trophy on Indian Polo Day
Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
Star-studded line-ups for The Access Bank Cup
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Polo Times, August 2026
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Your Club News from Home and Abroad
Club Focus
Carlito’s Polo Club
Photography courtesy of WWPC
Ballistic Polo Team with their special polo artwork by Clair Graham
Play Polo celebrated Canada Day with a competitive day of polo, bringing players and supporters together for the Club’s annual Canada Day Tournament. The day produced a friendly but competitive atmosphere, with Ballistic Polo Team claiming the title. The winning side of Kaveh Shakib, Karen Reeve, Dominic Cunningham, Sarah Grant and Nicola OliviaBonito were presented with the Canada Bear Trophy, a much-loved symbol of the tournament. Players were also awarded special polo artwork created for the occasion by Play Polo member Clair Graham, whose drawings captured the spirit and athleticism of the game. Two Finals took place at Carlito’s Polo Club on Sunday 5 July. Cedar Polo Team made up of Bilal Shaykh, Karen Reeve, Kaveh Shakib and Gonzalo Bazan took home The Georges Trophy, a beautiful silver ice bucket, with the poem of “the horse” engraved on it. Taoinfinity Polo Team won the Carlos de la Serna Memorial tournament, defeating HK Polo Team in the Final. The match was evenly contested through the first two chukkas, but Taoinfinity pulled away in the second half with strong goals from Nicola
The beautiful Georges Trophy, won by Cedar Polo Team
TaoInfinity were winners of the 2026 Summer Cup
Olivia-Bonito, Jayden Tao and Charlie Hipwood to secure the win. TaoInfinity were 2026 Summer Cup champions following two days of competitive polo at Carlitos Polo Club on 11–12 July. Captained by Jayden Tao, alongside Nicola Bonito-Oliva, Tariq Dag Khan and Charlie Hipwood, TaoInfinity produced a series of consistent team performances to secure the title. Pareto Polo Team finished
Cedar, winners of The Billy Walsh Trophy
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Taofinity celebrate after their win over HK Polo
runners-up, while Galaxia Polo Team claimed third place after an entertaining weekend of closely fought matches. Cedar Polo Team celebrated captain Bilal Shaykh’s birthday in style with a hardfought 5½-4 victory over Ballistic Polo Team. Receiving a half-goal advantage, Cedar held off a determined Ballistic side in a closely contested match featuring strong defensive play and fast attacking polo. Despite sustained late pressure from Ballistic, Cedar held firm to secure the win. Following the match, Bilal was presented with the Billy Walsh Trophy by Carlito. The trophy has a special history, having been won by Carlito at Ham Polo Club in 1992. Hipwood Polo Team produced a dominant final chukka to defeat Mountgerald Polo Team 7-4 and lift the Spirit of the Horse Trophy. The Final was closely contested throughout the opening stages, with neither side able to establish a decisive advantage. Mountgerald remained firmly in contention until the final chukka, when Hipwood found another level, combining excellent teamwork, accurate passing and clinical finishing to pull clear and secure victory.
Hipwood celebrate their win with The Spirit of the Horse Trophy
Polo Times, August 2026
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Club Focus
Your Club News from Home and Abroad
Photography by Matias Callejo
Almasanta won The Open de España Laguna at Ayala Polo Club
Ayala Polo Club
Almasanta won The Open de España Laguna after defeating 1896 Polo 9-7 in a strong Final performance on Los Pinos Ground 3 at Ayala Polo Club, Sotogrande, on Sunday 28 June. The Final was closely contested between two evenly matched 8-goal sides. Almasanta started strongly, taking a 3-1 lead in the first chukka, before 1896 Polo responded to level the score at 3-all in the second. The teams remained locked at 6-6 after the third chukka, with Santiago Cernadas proving decisive for Almasanta, leading the scoring with seven goals. Almasanta then produced their best polo in the final chukka, combining strong defence with sharper finishing to secure a 9-7 victory and lift the Open de España Laguna title. Elsewhere at Ayala Polo Club, Delta Defence won The Copa Kai after defeating Legacy 9-8 in extra chukka, thanks to a golden goal from Martín Di Paola. The Copa Mar de Sazzón went to Amigos Düsseldorf, who overcame Magual Okip on Saturday 27 June.
Mughyrat were the winners of The Memorial Manuel Prado y Coló de Carvajal Cup in Sotogrande, Spain
Open de España Laguna Final teams: Almasanta (8): Alejandro Cernadas (-1), Joaquín Castellví (0), Santiago Cernadas (6) & Roberto Iturrioz (3) 1896 Polo (8): Ahmed Kadiri (0), Luis Padilla (0), Cristian Chaves (3) & Segundo Fernández Llorente (5) Mughyrat were crowned Memorial Manuel Prado y Colón de Carvajal champions after defeating Legacy 11-7 in the Final at Los Pinos, San Roque. Legacy made the stronger start, with Bautista Riglos helping Cedric Schweri’s side into an early 4-2 lead. However, Mughyrat turned the match around from the second chukka, inspired by Juan Zubiaurre, who was later named Most Valuable Player. With Tomás Gándara providing a solid defensive presence, Mughyrat took control and kept Legacy at bay to secure the title on their seasonal debut.
social
membership at G UA R D S P O L O C L U B
Social Membership of Guards Polo Club is all about enjoying polo in a relaxed and inspiring setting, surrounded by family and friends. As well as welcoming back established Members, Guards Polo Club is always delighted to open its doors to those who are yet to discover exactly what this exhilarating and skilful sport has to offer. Our Membership package includes a Member's annual metal badge and car pass, plus three guest badges, giving free access to more than 500 games of polo. Members will also receive coveted invitations to exclusive, Members-only events throughout the season.
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP ✸ Experience the drama and passion of more than 500 polo fixtures each season ✸ Enjoy outstanding Clubhouse dining with menus created by Searcys ✸ Watch games from Members’ only grandstands, delivering the perfect view of polo ✸ Enjoy priority booking for Fieldside Parking on the Club’s top polo finals ✸ Sample new experiences thanks to our exclusive calendar of social events ✸ Relax in the Clubhouse Garden whilst your children enjoy the adjacent play area ✸ Keep up-to-date with regular newsletters and enjoy our annual Club publications ✸ Gain privileged access to some of the world’s top clubs through our reciprocal scheme
For more information, please visit www.guardspoloclub.com or email membership@guardspoloclub.com
International & Home
Women’s Polo
Photography courtesy of Rutland Polo Club
Women In Polo Round-up
Stockton Sporting, winners of the Rutland Polo Club 4 Goal
Edinburgh Polo Club, winners of The Escalina Trophy 8 Goal
The Women In Polo league continued to gather momentum throughout July, with successful tournaments taking place at Beaufort Polo Club, Rutland Polo Club and Edinburgh Polo Club, showcasing the depth of talent across every level of the women’s game. Beaufort Polo Club hosted the opening 12 goal tournament of the month, with four teams competing, followed by a 3 goal Challenge Match designed to ensure players of all abilities could take part regardless of handicap or experience. EB Polo claimed the 12 goal title with victory over Los Locos in the Final. Teagan Bristow was named Most Valuable Player, while Blondie, played by Annalisa Tomlinson, received the Best Playing Pony award. The Subsidiary Final saw HMA Tax/Smiths defeat R&R Polo, while Beaufort Polo School won the Challenge Match against Chialvo Polo. The following weekend, Rutland Polo Club welcomed both 8 goal and 4 goal teams to their two-tiered WIP tournaments. In the 8 goal competition, Edinburgh Polo Club overcame Panteras Púrpura across a two-day Final to lift the title. Cat Horstmann was named Most
Valuable Player, while Shadow, owned by Tessa Collett, received the Best Playing Pony award. The 4 goal event was contested as a round robin between Stockton Sporting, Wheelcraft and Rutland, with Stockton Sporting narrowly emerging as champions ahead of Wheelcraft. Rutland finished third, with two players making both their tournament and women’s polo debuts. Kerry Neal collected the Most Valuable Player award, Eva Stockton was named Junior Most Valuable Player, and Lucy, owned and played by Liz Penson, received the Best Playing Pony award. The tournament highlighted the Women’s Polo League’s commitment to developing grassroots women’s polo and providing competitive opportunities for new players. The month’s action concluded at Edinburgh Polo Club, which hosted its first WIP tournament following a two-day coaching clinic held earlier in the week. The event featured two teams and marked another important step in the continued expansion of the Women’s Polo League across the UK.
Photography by Justine Jacquemot
Ladies Nations Cup
Île de France dethrone defending champions at Ladies Nations Cup
Île de France claimed the OniriQ Ladies Polo Nations Cup after defeating defending champions Hauts de France Yves Delorme 3-2 in a closely fought Final at the Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly. Played at La Ferme d’Apremont, on the outskirts of Paris, the tournament was affected by an intense heatwave, forcing organisers to reschedule the fixtures. Play resumed on Monday 29 June, with Île de
Action on the field as Île de France charge to goal
France and Hauts de France Yves Delorme securing their places in the Final. The championship match proved a tense, hard-fought contest, with little separating the two sides. Île de France ultimately held firm to edge their opponents by a single goal and lift the title. The Amateur Most Valuable Player award went to Megan Kawohl, while Lucie Venot received the Most Valuable Player award.
For Women’s polo dates for your diary, turn to our What’s On pages
The Best Playing Pony prize was awarded to Malakita, played by Luisa Del Carril. The Ladies Nations Cup Final Teams: Île de France (12): Ester Dada (1), Megan Kawohl (1), Lucie Venot (4) & Pearl Venot (6) Hauts de France Yves Delorme (11): Bianca Verneuil (2), Roxane Valat (2), Pupi Sirvent (2) & Luisa Del Carril (5) Polo Times, August 2026
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Photography by Sam Churchill
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All Aspects of Youth Polo
Youth
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Victor Futurum Series: The Junior Gold Cup
Polo directory
CLUB PHONE EMAIL FourFarm teams future stars took part in The Junior Goldrachaelkearnet@hotmail.co.uk Cup Home Polo of Grounds 07807672120 Hurtwood Polo Club 01483 272828 polo@hurtwoodparkpolo.co.uk Four teams, teaming with future talent and recognisable polo Kirtlington Park Polo Club 01869 350138 info@kirtlingtonparkpolo.co.uk Knepp Castle Polo Club 023639 info@aspectpolo.co.uk surnames, took part in this07920 exciting youth tournament at Cowdray Leadenham Polo Club 299026 office@leadenhampoloclub.com Park Polo Club. Part of the07429 Victor Futurum series which first saw Longdole Polo Club* 01452 864544 info@longdolepolo.com Guards host stars for The Junior Queen’s Cup, it Moor Farm Polo Club a plethora of young 07494 114190 shop@moorfarmshop.co.uk Moor HallThe Farm Polo Club* Gold Cup up 01279 450637 alecbeve@btinternet.com was Junior next. New Forest Polo Club 07977 224404 annabelparryjoyner@yahoo.co.uk Cambridge, Hurlingham, Calcutta and Meadowbrook battled it Norfolk Polo Club 01508 480400 office@norfolkpolo.co.uk out throughout to earn points and on the final day it Northern Ireland Polo Clubthe tournament 07803 020577 info@northernirelandpoloclub.co.uk Offchurch Bury Polo Club* who came07816 was Cambridge out 830887 on top. Withinfo@offchurchburypoloclub.co.uk a young Nero (Lorenzo) Pangbourne Polo Club 07708 906810 aprice@polofix.com and a young Pieres (Indalecio) forming of the team, Peover Polo Club 07766 016 833 50 percent polomanager@peoverpoloclub.co.uk Polo Wicklow* 404 67164 and strongly accompanied00353 by Harry Wood siobhan@polowicklow.com and Lex Neads, it isn’t RAF Cranwell 07739 569491 rafcranwellpoloclub@yahoo.co.uk surprising that this side triumphed in the end. Ranelagh Polo Club* 01344 885697 ranelagh@labravapolo.com to a890060 proud line up by Nick Evans. RCBPC*The cup was presented01344 polo@rcbpc.com RMAS Polo Club 07973 174542 rmas-nc-aci-projinters@mod.uk Rugby Polo Club* 01788 817724 info@rugbypoloclub.com ThePolo Junior Gold Cup Teams: Rutland Club 07772 040668 secretary@rutlandpoloclub.co.uk Silver Leys Polo Club Freddie Brockett, 07730 060200 silverleyspoloclub@gmail.com Hurlingham: Jamie Borwick, Andino Donoso St. Albans Polo Club 07956 017090 info@stalbanspoloclub.co.uk & Milo Mac Donough Stewarton Polo Club 07974 706045 info@stewartonpolo.co.uk Cambridge: Lex Neads, Harry Wood, Indalecio Pieres Suffolk Polo Club 07990 576974 aes3@cam.ac.uk Sussex Polo Club* Nero 01342 714920 info@sussexpolo.co.uk & Lorenzo Taunton Vale Polo Club 01823 480460 nhs.wheelers@gmail.com Calcutta: Florencio Merlos Tidworth Polo Club*Edward Pakenham, 01980 Harry 846705 Earnshaw, info@tidworthpolo.com Toulston Polo Club Merlos 07776 234638 info@toulstonpoloclub.com & Celestino Triskelion Polo Club* 07624 272547 polo@triskelionpolo.club Meadowbrook: Zachary Ogilvie Thompson, Alejandro Otamendi, Vale of York Polo Club* 07788 426968 info@valeofyorkpoloclub.co.uk Vicente Vaux Park ParkStirling Polo Club*& Lucero Monteverde 07703 524613 vppc@btconnect.com West Wycombe Park Polo Club* 07787 560729 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
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CLUB PHONE EMAIL All Ireland Polo Club 00353 01 6896732 dstone@indigo.ie All England Polo Club Hickstead* 01273 834 315 polo@hickstead.co.uk Apsley End Polo Club* 01462 712444 tobiana.scott@gmail.com Ash Farm Polo Club* 07799 812739 ashfarmpolo@hotmail.com Barfold Polo Club 07778 808853 mborwick@gmail.com Bawtry Polo Club 01302 773282 info@bawtrypoloclub.co.uk Beaufort Polo Club 01666 880510 enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk Beverley Polo Club* 01964 544877 info@beverleypoloclub.co.uk Binfield Heath 01491 411969 bhpcmanager@gmail.com Blueys Polo Club* 07930 323263 polomanager@blueyspolo.co.uk Bramham Polo Academy 07811 993316 emmadvh@btinternet.com Bunclody Polo Club 00353 87 6605917 info@poloclubbunclody.com Burningfold Polo Club 01483 200722 derrek@burningfold.com Cambridge Polo Club* 07711 217004 cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com Cambridge County Polo Club* 01223 812922 info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk Carlton House 07901 561113 harrietservaes@hotmail.com Chester Racecourse Polo Club 01244 304602 amorris@chester-races.com Cheshire Polo Club 01948 861020 info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk Chiltern Polo Club 07973 174542 info@chilternpoloclub.com Cirencester Park Polo Club 01285 653225 info@cirencesterpolo.co.uk Cowdray Polo Club 01730 813257 enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk Curraghmore Polo Club 00353 51 387102 mkennedy@cssgroup.ie Dallas Burston Polo Club* 01926 811 111 enquiries@ixlevents.com Dorset Polo Club 01202 623985 office@dorsetpolo.co.uk Druids Lodge Polo Club* 01722 782597 abi@druidspolo.co.uk Dundee and Perth Polo Club* 07831 365 194 jamesscrawford@aol.com Eastwood Polo Club 07875 743475 frankums@googlemail.com Edgeworth Polo Club 01285 821695 edgeworthpolo@gmail.com Edinburgh Polo Club* 07971 072336 james.dgls@gmail.com Emsworth Polo Grounds* 01344 883112 info@fourquarterspolo.co.uk Epsom Polo Club* 07961 232106 epsompoloclub@hotmail.com FHM Polo Club* came out on top as Junior 07778 436468 frances@fhmpolo.co.uk Cambridge gold Cup winners Fifield Polo Club* 01628 620061 fifieldpoloclub@live.co.uk Great Trippetts Polo Club 01428 741916 charles@trippetts.com Guards Polo Club* 01784 434212 polo@guardspoloclub.com Ham Polo Club 020 8334 0000 office@hampoloclub.com Hertfordshire Polo Club* 01707 256023 polo@hertspolo.co.uk image copyright protected by Katesart.com 2007
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Is your youth polo not featured? Email editorial@polotimes.co.uk with all your youth polo news!
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A Round-Up The Rundle Cup of Military Polo Action
Huge crowds gathered to enjoy a day of sunshine, hospitality and polo action
Photography by Michael Berkeley
Military
Sizzling Action at The Rundle Cup Lucy Wilson reports
Getting warmed up
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Polo Times, August 2026
Photography by Michael Berkeley
The 2026 Rundle Cup at Tedworth Park Polo Club was another scorching success with packed sidelines, a full VIP tent and a shopping village where you could easily lose a few hundred pounds on anything from sparkling jewellery, a wardrobe refresh, or some new polo kit. The Rundle Cup, started in Malta in 1910, was brought back to Tedworth in 1976, where it has been played for ever since, bar the Covid year. With a focus on horse welfare, including shaded pony lines, fan lanes and free changes, the three match polo programme kicked off with The Heroes Cup, with players from SAFECT (Strategic Armed Forces Equine Team) and the Power of Polo battling it out over a two chukka instructional match, which ended nicely in a 1-1 draw. Naomi Liles of SAFECT Eagles scored in the first chukka; this wasn’t answered until Elaine Corner steamed straight out of the line out in the second chukka to score for Power of
Naomi Liles and Elaine Corner battle it out for The Heroes Cup
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The Rundle Cup
The Royal Navy Raiders performed their popular parachute display Polo to level the scores at 1-1. The Heroes Cup teams: SAFECT Eagles: Hatty Lay, Naomi Liles, Vicky Adams & James Haigh Power of Polo Lions: Richie Costello, Jamie Clayton, Elaine Corner & Brad Dommett-King Play paused for lunch during which picnics were enjoyed, British Polo Gin cocktails flowed and the VIP guests enjoyed sitdown catering in a massive 235-person marquee, as well as the spectacle of the Royal Navy Raiders performing their usual daring parachute drop to great approval from the crowd. The programmes on the pitch resumed as Team Lionstrike (the Army Team Sponsor) led The Rundle Cup teams onto
the ground with their new General Motors defence utility vehicles.
The Rundle Cup
The Navy began the 2026 Rundle Cup with a 1½-goal advantage and, with temperatures rising, chukkas were shortened to six minutes to protect ponies and riders. The opening throw-in saw JacquesGrey break free, supported by Howe and Drummond-Murray, before a penalty for raised sticks halted the attack. HPA Pro Umpire Danny Muriel made it clear from the outset that unsportsmanlike conduct would not be tolerated. Drummond-Murray’s first shot drifted wide before Howe carried the ball down the boards until play was stopped after a pony kicked the ball out.
The Army win The Rundle Cup
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Military
Both sides created chances, but the Army struggled to find the target despite some excellent approach play. The Army began the second chukka by conceding a foul, but after a scrappy exchange Drummond-Murray finally scored their first goal. Moments later he broke clear to set up Richards before adding another himself after a blistering run the length of the field. Jacques-Grey added a further goal from broken play as the Army took control. The Navy responded through Morris, while Worsley’s late effort drifted wide. The third chukka saw Spiller’s powerful strike finished by Rourke before both sides exchanged attacks. Although they had never played together before, the Army finally found their rhythm, with Jacques-Grey, Richards and Howe combining well. The final chukka opened with Drummond-Murray launching a high backhand before Spiller earned the Navy a spot hit to reduce the deficit to 4-3½. The Army continued to press, creating six further chances, but the Navy defended resolutely. In the closing seconds, Drummond-Murray’s final spot hit curled wide in the wind, leaving the Army to claim a hard-fought 4-3½ victory. Indio, owned by Rosie Ross and played by Lt Josh Morris (Royal Navy) won the Best Playing Pony award and Lt Col Barney Jacques-Grey was awarded the Most Valuable Player accolade. The Rundle Cup teams: British Army (1): Major Nick Howe (-1), Captain Ed Richards (0), Lieutenant Colonel Barney Jacques-Grey (1) & Major Jamie Drummond-Murray (1) Royal Navy (-1): Lieutenant Josh Morris (-1), Lieutenant Steve Worsley (0), Surgeon Captain Harry Rourke RNR (0) & Commander Steve Spiller (0)
Major Jamie Drummond-Murray on the attack for the Army
Polo Times, August 2026
49
Military
The Rundle Cup
What the players had to say:
Major Jamie Drummond-Murray, Captain of the Army Team; “It feels great. I think for the first two chukkas, we put in a really good effort. We got up the boards quickly. So then we got to a score of 4-1; we were in a good position, but complacency kicked in the second half and the Royal Navy really got the better of us. In the end, it was a really tough last few chukkas, compounded by the conditions today being very hot. But all in all, a good win.” Lt Col Barney Jacques-Grey; “I’ve played in this for the last five years, so to win the Most Valuable Player Award is a great result.
It was a really good day, even if a very hot one. I’m glad that we had half-chukka breaks for reasons of pony welfare, although this can be a bit of a problem, because the ponies never quite have the chance to fully get going. I think we lost a bit of momentum throughout the day but, even though the Navy came back strongly in the second half, the win was still a great win!” Commander Steve Spiller; “Really frustrating that we won more chukkas than we lost. I think if we had had a little bit more time, we’d have had them on the ropes. I think they were definitely worried. Who knows what might have happened with full length chukkas!”
The ICOA Trophy Match Report
The ICOA Trophy between the United Kingdom Armed Forces Polo Association (UKAFPA) and the US Military Polo Team opened at a frantic pace as the Americans quickly settled into their rhythm. Muldoon struck twice in the opening chukka, while the UKAFPA side created opportunities through Thomas and Cowley but were unable to convert, leaving the United States in control after the opening exchanges. The second chukka remained fast and physical, with both sides producing end-toend polo. Jenkins extended the American advantage with an excellent neck shot before Amos added another, although UKAFPA responded well through Thomas, who converted from the penalty line to keep his side within touching distance at half-time. The Americans tightened their grip on the contest after the interval. Jenkins enjoyed an outstanding third chukka, scoring twice as the United States stretched their lead to 6½ goals. Thomas continued to battle for UKAFPA and added another penalty, but the Americans consistently found answers at the other end. UKAFPA continued to press throughout the final chukka, creating several promising attacks, but the American defence remained composed. Hoogewerf added the final goal for the visitors before they comfortably saw out the closing stages to secure a 6½ – 3 victory and lift the ICOA Trophy. First Lieutenant Rowan Neidinger (US) was awarded Most Valuable Player while Rosie Ross took home her second award of the day being awarded the Polo Times Best Playing Pony rug for Adele played by Major General Nick Cowley OBE. Check out our Pony Power pages for more info on Adele. The ICOA Trophy teams: UKAFPA (2): Major General Nick Cowley OBE (0), Wing Commander Vicky Woodhead (0), Squadron Leader Ellie Hoogewerf (0) & Captain Jamie Thomas (2) US Military (1): Lieutenant Michael Muldoon (0) / Commander Andrea Logan (0), First Lieutenant Rowan Neidinger (0), Lieutenant Colonel Amos Peterson (0) & Petty Officer 1st Class Alex Jenkins (1)
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Polo Times, August 2026
The US Military were victorious in the Indian Cavalry Officers Association Trophy
What the players had to say: First Lieutenant Rowan Neidinger; “Well, I would just like to say that there’s been a lot of training lately, and the Marine Corps has been very gracious to give me time off to play. I think I played well today, but it’s really thanks to the ponies; today’s were amazing, and then of course, there’s my horses back home. Toby, my horse back home, is the best horse in the world.” Lieutenant Colonel Amos Peterson; “So this is our third time over The Pond. I’ve been fortunate enough to come on all three exchanges, but I can honestly say that this one has been one of the most organised, with the best-played polo that we’ve had so far, without question. It really encapsulates what the camaraderie and the military exchanges are all about. It’s just building that relationship, those special alliances, and it’s been fantastic.”
Adele, winner of the Polo Times Best Playing Pony for the ICOA match
Captain Jamie Thomas heading to goal for the UK Armed Forces team
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A Round-Up of Military Polo Action
Military
Photography by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
The Household Cavalry took home The Inter Regimental Cup
The Inter-Regimental On Sunday 12 July, The Household Cavalry defeated The Welsh Guards 8-2½ to win the historic Inter-Regimental Final at Guards Polo Club. This trophy is the oldest polo silverware still played for in the UK, dating back to 1871, some 84 years before Guards Polo Club was founded, a testament to the history of military polo here in the UK and Guards
Polo Club’s early roots as a military club. The match was rather one-sided with The Household Cavalry dominating from the off and not allowing The Welsh Guards much of a look in on the attacking stakes. Ct Billy Hawkins-Byass was named Most Valuable Player after a stellar performance which was pivotal in his team’s landslide victory.
Action from The Inter Regimental Cup
The Inter-Regimental Teams: The Welsh Guards (1): Capt Billy Richardson (-2), Lt Col Guy Bartle-Jones (0), Capt The Lord Chelsea (1), Capt Oli Powell (2) The Household Cavalry Regiment (2): Ct Billy Hawkins-Byass (-1), Lt Ben Humphries (0), Capt Jamie Thomas (2), Lt Jonty Barlow (1)
The Sir John Chapple Cup Series
Photography by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
A great neck shot from the overall victorious US side
The Sir John Chapple Cup Series is a trilogy of matches that takes place between the Armed Forces Polo Association and a visiting US Military team. The first of these tough matchups was played on Thursday 9 July at Cirencester Park Polo Club and saw a draw between the two sides at two goals apiece. It was all to play for at Tedworth Polo Club as the second match formed part
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The British side may have won the match, but the Americans won the series
of the iconic Rundle Cup Day. This time it wasn’t quite such a tight affair with the visiting side taking home the win 6½ -3. A full match report forms part of our Rundle Cup coverage. Finally, and with the home team reeling from their loss on the Saturday, The United Services Cup, the last of the three match series, produced a close contest, with the
Armed Forces Polo Association edging a visiting US Military Team 4-3½ to lift the trophy at Guards Polo Club on Sunday 12 July. Despite an honourable win apiece and a draw to start, the overall title went to the visiting US military side on goal difference. A great celebration of the power of polo to bring teams together from around the world.
Polo Times, August 2026
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Military
A Round-Up of Military Polo Action
The Sassoon Cup
Photograph by Michael Berkeley
The Sassoon Cup formed part of the Druids Lodge Stonehenge Festival Day
The British Army Polo Team reclaimed the historic Sassoon Cup with a commanding 10–3 victory over the RAF at Druids Lodge Polo Club during the Stonehenge Polo Festival, ending the RAF’s run of two consecutive wins in the fixture. The all-women RAF side made the brighter start, opening the scoring before the Army responded with a disciplined team performance to take control of the match and steadily pull away. Major Jamie Drummond-Murray was instrumental in the victory and was deservedly named Most Valuable Player. First contested in 1936, The Sassoon Cup remains one of military polo’s longest-standing trophies, and this year’s edition once again highlighted the competitive spirit and proud rivalry between the two services. The action was brought to life by commentator Colonel Simon Ledger (Retd), known to many as the voice of the Rutshire Cup in Disney’s Rivals. Sassoon Cup Teams: RAF (0): Georgie Harwood (0), Mimi Figgins (0), Ellie Hoogewerf (0) & Vicky Woodhead (0) Army (0): Lucy Anderson (0), Ed Richards (0), Nick Howe (-1) & Jamie Drummond-Murray (1)
The Captains and Subalterns Trophy
Photography by Peter Meade
The Queen’s Royal Hussars team receive the trophy
Tedworth Park Polo Club hosted the annual Captains and Subalterns Trophy over the weekend of 18–19 July, with 12 military teams competing across three divisions on the Perham Down ground. The premier Division I Final saw Queen’s Royal Hussars A defeat Household Cavalry 6–2 to claim the prestigious Captains and Subalterns Trophy after an impressive display.
Action from the Royal Navy A team and the Royal Army Medical Service
Elsewhere, RNPA A secured the Division II title with a 5–2 victory over RLC, while RAMS edged RNPA B 3–2½ to win Division III. The weekend once again showcased the depth of talent within military polo, with competitive action across all three divisions and another successful staging of one of the Armed Forces’ flagship tournaments.
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Pony Power
Knowledge
Adele Height: 15.1hh Age: 14-years-old Colour: Chestnut Sex: Mare Owned and played by: Owned by Rosie Ross and played by Major General Nick Cowley OBE Tournament: The ICOA Trophy on Rundle Cup Day Where is she from? She is Sumaya bred. Photograph by Michael Berkeley
How long have you had her? Originally from Arnie Lustman, We have had her for three years but she came to us with a pretty serious leg injury so this is her first full season playing with us. What are her strengths? Her biggest strength is her injury recovery. How has she gone this season? She’s had such a good season so far. Alfie Muriel has put a lot of work into bringing her back into work, and it’s really paid off.
What are your plans for her in the future? She does everything from beginners to more advanced so she’ll continue to do lessons, instructional chukkas and tournaments.
Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? No, this is her first.
Does she have any special quirks? She’s claustrophobic, agoraphobic, scared of
being tied up and has an almost constant desire to self-harm so she mainly has to hang out in her little isolation loony bin when at chukkas. Describe her in three words? Spanner, willing, shiny.
Maria Honoria Democracia Height: 15.2hh Age: 6-years-old Colour: Chestnut Sex: Mare Owned and played by: Felix Esain Tournament: Coworth Challenge Cup
Photograph by Alice Gipps
Where is she from/breeding? Democracia is homebred from my family’s breeding program. Her dam and her granddam were both bred on my grandfather’s farm, so she comes from a very special female line for us. She is by Open Malbec, out of Súper Piña. How long have you had her? I have had her since she was born. What are her strengths? From a very young age she was the leader of her group of fillies. At the same time, she has a very quiet temperament. She is gentle, easy to ride and showed natural polo ability very early. She is quick, balanced and has a great mind. How has she gone this season? This is her first season in the UK. I chose her to play www.polotimes.co.uk
the Coworth Challenge Cup Final and she performed really well. I was very happy with how she adapted. Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? No, this is her first one. What are your plans for her in the future? After a full wintering period and with more time to settle in, I think she will be one
of my favourite mares next season. I have high hopes for her. Does she have any special quirks? She is very calm and easy to handle off the field, but once the game starts she becomes very competitive and always gives her best. Describe her in three words? Gentle, talented, reliable. Polo Times, August 2026
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Knowledge
Pony Power
GT Leonor Height: 15.1hh Age: 16-years-old Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Owned and played by: Adolfo Cambiaso and played by Mia Cambiaso Tournament: Guards Ladies 22 Goal Where is she from/breeding? Her breeding is Cria Tanoira.
Photograph by Santiago Young
What are her strengths? She is fast, well-balanced and has a great mouth. Very responsive and can play any type of polo. How has she gone this season? She has been brilliant this season, she is so reliable and Mia really enjoyed playing her and did well on her. Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? Not with us. What are your plans for her in the future? She is currently headed out to Sotogrande to play out there with Adolfo Cambiaso and then she’ll come back to the
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Polo Times, August 2026
UK to winter and rest while we decide if she goes to the USA or not. She is on the list at the moment. Does she have any special quirks? Although she seems very chilled, the first
few rides on her each season are interesting. You’ve got to be brave. Describe her in three words? Loves her job.
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Hips Don’t Lie
The power of the hips and why hip mobility could be the missing piece in your polo performance
Polo demands far more from the body than many people realise. While the horse does the running, the rider is constantly stabilising, rotating, absorbing forces and producing power through the saddle. At the centre of all of this movement lies one of the most important areas of the body: the hips. Good hip mobility allows a player to move freely with the horse, maintain balance during rapid changes of direction and generate power through the swing. Poor hip mobility, on the other hand, can lead to stiffness, lower back pain, reduced performance and an increased risk of injury. Whether you’re a low goal club player or competing at the highest level, improving your hip mobility can have a significant impact on your riding and overall athleticism. The hips are the body’s powerhouse. They connect the lower and upper body and act as the transfer point for force generation, stability and movement. During a game of polo, players repeatedly: • Rotate through the trunk to hit the ball • Stabilise against the movement of the horse • Maintain a strong riding position • Absorb impact through the saddle • Lean and reach during shots • Accelerate and decelerate with the horse All of these actions rely on healthy hip movement. When the hips become stiff, the body finds movement elsewhere. This often means the lower back, knees or groin are forced to compensate, leading to discomfort and potential injury.
Benefits of good hip mobility
Improved hip mobility can help: • Increase swing rotation and reach • Improve balance in the saddle • Reduce lower back tension • Improve posture while riding • Enhance athletic performance off the horse • Reduce risk of hip, groin and back injuries Simply put, mobile hips allow you to move better, ride better and recover better.
How to identify weak or restricted hips
Many polo players spend long periods 60
Polo Times, August 2026
Knees collapsing inward is also a sign of hip restrictions
Heels lifting on a squat can be a sign of limited hip mobility
The correct squatting posture
sitting at desks, driving or travelling between tournaments. Combined with hours spent in the saddle, this can create stiffness in the hip flexors and weakness in the gluteal muscles. Some common signs include: Tight Hip Flexors You may notice: • Lower back tightness after riding • Difficulty standing tall • Feeling stiff when getting off a horse • Reduced stride length when walking Poor Hip Rotation You may experience: • Difficulty rotating through shots • Limited reach on near-side and off-side swings • Tightness in the groin or outer hips Weak Glutes Common signs include:
• Lower back fatigue • Poor balance in the saddle • Difficulty maintaining position during fast play • Knee discomfort during exercise Quick Self-Test Try this simple assessment: Sit on the floor and cross one ankle over the opposite knee to form a figure-four position. If you struggle to achieve the position comfortably, experience significant asymmetry between sides or feel excessive stiffness around the hips, it may indicate restricted mobility that needs attention. Another useful test is the bodyweight squat. If your heels lift, knees collapse inward or you struggle to squat comfortably, limited hip mobility may be contributing.
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Physical Performance Coach
Knowledge
Mobilise first, then strengthen
One of the biggest mistakes athletes make is jumping straight into strengthening exercises without addressing mobility restrictions first. Think of mobility as creating access to movement. Strength training then teaches your body how to control that movement. The most effective approach is to improve mobility first and then reinforce those new ranges with strength exercises. Mobility Exercises Perform these exercises as part of your warm-up or recovery routine. 1. Lunge stretch with thoracic rotation Start in a deep lunge position. • Place both hands on the floor • Rotate your upper body toward the front leg • Reach the arm toward the ceiling • Return and repeat Perform 12 repetitions per side. Benefits: • Improves hip flexor mobility • Opens the thoracic spine • Enhances rotational movement 2. 90/90 Hip Rotations Sit on the floor with both knees bent at 90 degrees. • Rotate the knees from side to side • Keep the chest tall • Move slowly and under control Perform 15 repetitions each side. Benefits: • Improves internal and external hip rotation • Excellent for polo swing mechanics 3. Couch Stretch Place one knee against a wall or bench. • The other foot remains in front • Maintain an upright torso • Gently squeeze the glutes Hold for 60 seconds each side. Benefits: • Lengthens tight hip flexors • Reduces anterior pelvic tilt • Relieves lower back stress 4. Deep Squat Hold Sit into a comfortable squat position. • Keep the chest tall • Hold onto a support if needed • Gently shift side to side Hold for 30 to 60 seconds. Benefits: • Improves overall hip mobility • Enhances lower-body movement quality
Building stronger hips
Drop knees to one side Sit with knees at 90 degrees
• Add a glute band for extra resistance Perform 3 sets of 12 to 15 reps. Benefits: • Activates glutes • Supports lower back health • Improves pelvic control 2. Bulgarian Split Squats Stand in a staggered stance with back leg elevated • Lower under control • Keep the torso upright • Push through the front foot Perform three sets of eight to 10 reps per leg. Benefits: • Builds single-leg strength • Improves stability and balance 3. Lateral Band Walks Place a resistance band around the knees or ankles. • Maintain slight knee bend • Step sideways with control Perform 10 to 15 steps each direction. Benefits: • Strengthens hip stabilisers • Improves knee alignment • Enhances riding control 4. Single-Leg Romanian Deadlifts Balance on one leg while hinging forward. • Keep hips level • Maintain a neutral spine • Return to standing Perform three sets of eight reps per side. Benefits: • Improves balance • Develops posterior chain strength • Transfers directly to riding stability
Once mobility improves, it’s essential to strengthen the muscles that stabilise and control the hips. Strong hips allow players to maintain posture, generate force and remain stable during dynamic movements. 1. Glute Bridges Lie on your back with knees bent. • Drive through the heels • Lift the hips • Squeeze the glutes at the top Glute bridges support lower back and pelvic health
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Repeat on the other side
A simple 10-minute hip routine
Before Riding: • Lunge Stretch x six per side • 90/90 Rotations x 10 • Deep Squat Hold for 30 seconds After Riding: • Couch Stretch for 60 seconds per side • Glute Bridges x 15 reps • Lateral Band Walks x 10 steps each way Consistently performing this routine just three to four times per week can lead to noticeable improvements in mobility, comfort and performance. Great polo players are not only skilled riders and talented horsemen – they are athletes. Mobile, strong hips allow players to move freely, absorb force efficiently and remain balanced in the saddle throughout every chukka. If you struggle with lower back tightness, feel stiff after riding or want to improve your swing and stability, start by focusing on your hips. Mobilise first, strengthen second and be consistent with your training. Your horse works hard beneath you. Ensuring your hips move well is one of the best investments you can make in becoming a more effective, resilient and athletic polo player. Check out India’s online and in person training programs designed for the equestrian athlete www. indiaparkersmith.com and her Instagram @ipsequestrianperformance
Polo Times, August 2026
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Knowledge
Equine Physio
Téa Carr-Hartley is an Equine Transeva Technique (ETT) Practitioner certified in Equine Sports Massage and Equine Kinesiotaping, with a particular passion for polo ponies and equine rehabilitation. Her interest in polo began at BSET Academy in South Africa under Professor Beth Shaw and was further developed through several years of polo grooming in England. Working with medium and high goal polo ponies has given her a first hand insight into the physical demands of the sport. She is passionate about treating the horse as a whole athlete, focusing on identifying stiffness, pain, and compensatory movement patterns before they develop into significant performance-limiting injuries
Performance Through Prevention Continued What your polo pony’s movement is trying to tell you “The body whispers before it shouts.” In the first article of this series, we explored the importance of recognising the subtle changes that often precede injury. But what is actually happening within the horse’s body when those changes begin? More often than not, the answer is compensation. Compensation is one of the body’s natural protective mechanisms. When a horse experiences pain, stiffness or weakness, it instinctively alters the way it moves to reduce the load on that area. Initially, this allows the horse to continue performing despite discomfort. However, while one structure is protected, another is asked to work harder. For a polo pony, where every chukka demands explosive acceleration, rapid deceleration, sharp turns and quick changes of direction, these altered movement patterns can quickly place excessive strain on other parts of the body.
Why compensation matters
The equine body is an interconnected system. Muscles, joints, fascia and ligaments work together to create efficient movement. When one area loses mobility or becomes painful, the rest of the body adapts. Think of it like a polo team. If one player
isn’t performing at full capacity, the remaining three must work harder to make up the difference. The same happens within the horse’s body. Compensation may keep the horse performing in the short term, but eventually the increased workload begins to take its toll. This is why successful rehabilitation and maintenance involve treating the whole horse rather than simply chasing the site of pain.
Compensation doesn’t always stay local
One of the biggest misconceptions in equine performance is that the area showing discomfort is always the source of the problem. A horse protecting a sore back may overload a forelimb. Reduced engagement through one hindlimb may increase strain on the opposite diagonal forelimb. Tightness through the shoulder can alter spinal movement, while discomfort in the hindquarters can influence balance, turning ability and even the quality of the contact. As one area compensates, another works harder to maintain performance. Over time, this increased workload can lead to fatigue, muscle soreness and eventually injury in tissues that were healthy to begin with. Rather than asking, “Where is the
problem?” we should instead ask, “Why is this part of the body having to work harder?”
Why it matters in polo
Polo places exceptional demands on the horse’s body. Unlike many disciplines, a polo pony is constantly transitioning between collection, acceleration, stopping, turning and lateral movement, often within just a few strides. Every movement relies on the muscles, joints, fascia and ligaments working together as one coordinated system. When one area loses mobility or becomes painful, another must compensate, reducing efficiency and increasing the strain placed elsewhere in the body. Maintaining freedom of movement throughout the entire horse is therefore fundamental to both performance and longevity in the sport.
Breaking the cycle
The earlier compensation patterns are recognised, the easier they are to address. Regular maintenance through physiotherapy and massage can help identify areas of stiffness, muscular tension and altered movement before they develop into significant performance-limiting injuries. By improving tissue mobility, reducing muscular discomfort and restoring more efficient
Every stride is a coordinated movement involving the whole body. When one area becomes stiff or uncomfortable, another must compensate. This pattern can ultimately affect both performance and soundness. In this mare, a subtle head tilt can be seen as her weaker hindlimb becomes weight-bearing, demonstrating how dysfunction in one area of the body can influence movement throughout the entire horse. 62
Polo Times, August 2026
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Record Breaking Final’s Day
Pete & George Woodward
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. Photography by Antonia Bullrich
Frankie & Alex Antony
Olivia Whittle & Lisa Knight
Kinesiology taping can be an effective method to support rehabilitation and muscle function
movement patterns, these therapies help minimise unnecessary strain on the rest of the body. Where appropriate, techniques such as kinesiology taping can also be incorporated, alongside various massage modalities, to support normal movement Harry Applegate, Anton Nymans, Charlie Graham, Issy Litvak & Issy Langrish
Equine Physio
reduce the effects of mechanical overloading, support recovery between games and help horses perform more comfortably and consistently throughout the season. Prevention isn’t about waiting for something to go wrong, it’s about keeping the body functioning as efficiently as possible so that small problems don’t become big ones. Georgia Sweeney & Gemma Byrne
What you can do at home
The next time your horse feels “not quite right,” resist the temptation to focus solely on where the problem appears. Instead, ask yourself: Has anything else changed recently? Is my horse equally supple on both reins? Has their way of going changed before this issue appeared? Could this be compensation rather than the primary problem? Keeping a simple diary of these Issy Litvak & Libby observations canConnaughton help identify patterns over time and provide valuable information for your vet or therapist. Remember, where your horse shows discomfort isn’t always where the problem began. Looking at the bigger picture is often the first step towards finding the real cause.
patterns, encourage correct muscle function and complement a horse’s rehabilitation or maintenance programme. While no therapy can prevent every injury, maintaining a horse’s musculoskeletal health through routine assessment and treatment can Jemima Wilson & Graham Wooldridge
Knowledge
If you want to find out more about Téa’s work and methods head to her Instagram @tch_ett
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Knowledge
Performance Coach
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 three 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
Find Your Why
Photography by Mark Beaumont
What really motivates you?
Constantly striving for excellence and improvement is a healthy and positive motivation
“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” Friedrich Nietzsche This famous quote is often attributed to Viktor Frankl, who wrote extensively about finding meaning through adversity, but it was originally written by the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. It captures one of the most important lessons in sport and in life: when you understand your purpose, you can overcome almost any obstacle.
One of the greatest teachers in polo is the horse itself
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Polo Times, August 2026
Every season, I ask players a simple question that often stops them in their tracks – why do you play polo? Not what handicap you want to reach. Not which tournament you dream of winning. Not what horse you hope to buy next. But why do you really play? The answers are always fascinating. Some tell me they simply love being around horses. Others thrive on the competition and the challenge of improving. Some enjoy the camaraderie in the clubhouse after a hardfought match, while others are driven by a desire to prove something to themselves. Many dream of lifting a major trophy or climbing the handicap rankings. There is no right or wrong answer. Every player’s journey is different. However, there is one important truth that applies to us all. If you don’t understand what truly motivates you, it becomes incredibly difficult to maintain your enthusiasm and commitment when things become challenging. Whether you are a player, coach, groom or parent, understanding the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation can transform the way you approach the game. The most successful and fulfilled people usually have a healthy balance of both. Intrinsic motivation is the fire that burns from within. It doesn’t rely on anyone pushing you or reminding you what needs to be done. Nobody has to persuade you to get to the yard early, watch another chukka, read another book, ask another question or spend another hour improving your riding. You simply want to become better because the process itself gives you satisfaction. You love learning. You enjoy serving your team. You take pride in helping younger players develop and looking after your horses because you genuinely care about them. Becoming the very best version of yourself is rewarding in its own right. For me, this is where long-term happiness lives. Of course, winning matters. Trophies matter, and success feels wonderful. But they are not the reason you get out of bed each morning. You’re driven by growth. Every day presents another opportunity to become a better player, a better horseman or horsewoman, a better teammate and, ultimately, a better human being. One of my favourite sayings is, “Your best is always under construction.” The moment we believe we have arrived is often the moment we stop improving. Excellence is never a destination; it is a lifelong pursuit. Extrinsic motivation, on the other www.polotimes.co.uk
Performance Coach hand, comes from external rewards and recognition. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this. Elite athletes throughout history have been inspired by ambitious goals and public recognition. Perhaps you want to win The Gold Cup, go up in handicap, establish yourself as one of the best coaches, receive praise from respected professionals or represent your country. You may want to build a successful polo business, earn enough to improve your string of horses or simply be recognised by your peers for your hard work. These are powerful motivators. Healthy competition raises standards. Recognition validates years of dedication and sacrifice. Financial success allows you to invest in better horses, facilities and coaching, helping both you and the sport to progress. The key is making sure these external rewards don’t become your only source of motivation. Eventually, someone else will win. Someone else will buy better horses. Someone younger will emerge, and someone will overtake your handicap. If your happiness depends entirely on external success, your confidence can disappear just as quickly as your results. The players I admire most combine intrinsic and extrinsic motivation beautifully. They desperately want to win, but they genuinely love the process of improving. They celebrate success yet remain just as excited about learning something new from every game. They appreciate recognition, but they are equally happy helping a teammate become better. Rather than chasing applause, they chase excellence. Ironically, those who focus on excellence are often the ones who receive the loudest applause anyway. This question isn’t just for players. It is equally important for parents. Why are you standing on the sideline every weekend? Are you living through your child? Are you constantly comparing them with other young players? Or are you helping them fall in love with horses, teamwork, resilience and responsibility? The greatest gift a parent can give is not pressure but belief. Encourage effort. Celebrate attitude. Praise improvement rather than perfection. Children who enjoy the journey almost always remain in the sport longer than those who feel they are constantly being judged. Coaches should ask themselves exactly the same question. Why do you coach? Is it simply another lesson fee, or do you genuinely want every player to leave better than when they arrived? The finest coaches I’ve ever worked alongside never stop learning. They continue reading, watching, observing and asking questions. They evolve with the game www.polotimes.co.uk
Knowledge
Success shared is success multiplied
because they understand that coaching isn’t about demonstrating how much they know. It’s about helping others discover how good they can become. One of the greatest teachers in polo is the horse itself. Your horse doesn’t care whether you’re a 1 goaler or a 10 goaler. It doesn’t know how many trophies you’ve won or what your handicap says. Horses respond to consistency, feel, timing, kindness and leadership. You cannot fool them. That is why intrinsic motivation is so powerful. When your genuine desire is simply to improve every day, your horses benefit. Your teammates benefit. Your Club benefits. Ultimately, the entire sport benefits. As we move through another season, I encourage you to spend ten quiet minutes reflecting on a few important questions. Why do I really play polo? What excites me about coming to the yard? Am I chasing trophies or mastery? Do I genuinely enjoy learning? Am I becoming a better teammate? Do people leave feeling better after spending time with me? Am I improving my horses’ lives as well as my own? And if nobody applauded me, would I still want to play? Your answers to these questions will tell you far more about your future than any handicap list ever could. The real magic happens when intrinsic and extrinsic motivation work together. You
strive for excellence because excellence matters to you. Winning becomes the consequence rather than the destination. Recognition becomes a bonus rather than a necessity. Money becomes fuel rather than purpose. You continue learning because you love the game. You continue improving because your personal standards demand it. You continue helping others because success shared is success multiplied. Perhaps that is the greatest lesson polo teaches us. The game is not simply about winning matches. It is about becoming someone worthy of winning them. So before your next chukka, ask yourself one final question: what is my why? Once you know the answer, every early morning, every tired horse, every extra schooling session, every difficult defeat and every glorious victory suddenly has meaning. Find your why. The rest has a habit of taking care of itself.
If you would like to speak to Stalkie about working together call: 07771 515 885 Polo Times, August 2026
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Freddie Timmis & Daisy White
Leigh Cookson & Bella Innes
Jo Scully Beim & Mikey Henderson
Mark & Laura Tomlinson
The Beaufort Ball; Friday 19 June, Beaufort Polo Club, Gloucestershire
Beaufort Ballers
Emma Wood & Tamara Fox
The annual Beaufort Ball was a fantastic affair with over 200 Club members and friends gathered to celebrate another year of sport and friendship with a good old fashioned, polo knees-up. Whites were swapped for black ties, mallets swapped for champagne flutes and the polo field deserted in favour of the dance floor as guests crowded into the marquee on a warm summer night. Guests feasted on Relish Catering canapés, sirloin steak and mini puddings before they headed to the D-floor to show off their 10 goal dance moves to the dulcet tones of The Shadow Monkeys. The Igloo Bar was busy all night as guests fuelled their dancing engines to keep the party going long into the wee hours of the morning.
Zahra Webb, Bella Innes, Isla Albutt & Ella Inglis Jones
Photography by Joss Ridley
Casper West, Laura & Jamie Murray-Wells
Luke Tomlinson, Tina & Henry Jodrell
Milly & Jack Hodges
Rosie Bush & Clemmie Langley
Luke Wiles
Beani Aitchison & Theo Abbots
The Shadow Monkeys
Seb & Kim Chilvo
Joss Ridley & Rolley Warden
James Curthoys, Anna Smith, Emily Smith & Rory Acland
Andrina Calder & Madison Rochelin Hall
Fiona Kalies & Sarah Hughes
Daniella Munyaneza, Martin Fewster & John Meyer
The Kirtlington Park Polo Club Centenary Ball; Saturday 27 June; Kirtlington Park Polo Club, Oxfordshire
A Century of Fun As temperatures soared at the end of June, so too did anticipation for the upcoming Centenary Ball at Kirtlington Park Polo Club. When the big night arrived, the Club played host to 400 plus guests to celebrate 100 years of KPPC! Champagne corks flew as members and Club supporters, past and present, raised several glasses to the Club and danced the night away under balmy skies. In typical Kirtlington fashion it was a birthday bash to remember, filled with warmth, joy, pride and FUN. Fun is what Kirtlington has always stood for in its 100 years – from the Budgett family first playing polo with their friends, through to the present-day Club and its unique sense of community. Happy Birthday Kirtlington – here’s to the next 100! Photographs by Antonia Stuart Catherine Young, Mandita Fontanarrosa & Rose Fletcher
David Birkbeck, Pippa Vincent & Nico Fontanarrosa
Willie Reeve, Andrew Barlow, Chris Crawford & Seb Petragallo
Lucia Vint & Sally Grant
Tim Fain, Pamela Clarke, Sam Tylor & Simon Coddington
Mat & Nat Lodder
Mel Fewster, Christopher ‘Puff’ Whitely & Vimmie James
Roger Ashby, Charles Smyth-Osbourne & Paul Parsons
Tim Earnshaw, Mandita Fontanarrosa & Charlotte Earnshaw
Walid Khawajkye, Ahmed Al Bad, Fuad Al Mudahka, Ali Al Mudahka, Abul Aziz Al Qanthni & Saleh Al Marri
Robert Thame
Josh Tuthill
Rose Farquhar
Charlie Budgett
Benji Bradshaw, Toby Bradshaw, Rupert Heseltine & Henry Bradshaw
Archie, Charles & Joanna Smyth-Osbourne
Tamsin Stewart
‘Magic’ Mike Moss
Richard Bailey
Sarah Rippon & Chris Crawford
Kevin & Alex Swann
Killian Ainsley, Tom Morley, Ross Ainsley, Quinn Ainsley and friends
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Rajasthani Dancers
Sapna Arora, Raj Dhillon, Aalam Grewal, Marnie Dhami, Sukhi Randhawa & Alyzeh Rahim Shirazi
Will Emerson & the Maharaja of Jaipur
Indian Polo Day; Saturday 11 July; Guards Polo Club, Windsor
Jamming Jaipur-Style
Nicci Parry & Chazz Khan
Guards Polo Club went full-on Jaipur style, bells, beats and plenty of polo panache, for its annual Indian Polo Day, presented by Gulfstream. The result was a riot of colour, rhythm and royal polo. The Maharajah himself led proceedings in suitably regal style, presenting the morning’s prizes before saddling up for the afternoon’s historic Jaipur Trophy. Around the field, the Indian takeover was impossible to resist. Rajasthani folk dancers swirled, dhol drummers raised the tempo and Angel Dancers added sparkle, while DJ Kivraj of Simba Events provided the perfect backbeat. As the sun set across The Queen’s Ground, British bhangra star H Dhami delivered an exclusive post-match performance. With Naan and Sizzle, Kingfisher beer and fragrant Masala Chai Tea completing the feast, Jaipur’s charm and character was very much on show in the heart of Windsor Great Park.
Hissam Ali Hyder & Mo Laden
Photography by Sam Churchill
Jaipur Trophy players
Anjali Singh & Vivek Rawal
Rajasthani Folk Dancer on The Queen’s Ground
Tim & Lisa Wood
H Dhami
Gavin Thompson
Angel Dancers
Justin Stanhope-White & Steve Walsh
Sam Christmas, Adam Brown, Kit Palmer-Price & David Palmer
Jodie Abisgold, Jazz Stanhope-White, Megan Griffiths & Lolly Stanhope-White
The Rundle Cup; Saturday 11 July; Tedworth Park Polo Club, Wiltshire
Sizzling on the Sidelines
Susie Winter & Debbie Flack
Millie Cuff & Tamby Welch
The Rundle Cup is always a treat for the eyes and the senses, and this year was no different. Blazing sunshine shone down on the fields of Tedworth Park Polo Club as huge crowds gathered to enjoy the day’s festivities, especially those extra-curricular activities around the sidelines which serve as a welcome addition to the polo action on the Fischer Ground. The heat of the day brought thirst, and the thirst sent the crowds running to The British Polo Gin stand as well as the plethora of ice cream offerings on hand. The picnics were shamelessly quaffed, the sunhats were outlandishly large, and no outfit was fully complete without a Cornetto or a glass of Pimm’s in hand. The atmosphere was one of elegance mixed with family fun where the fashion, feasting and fast-paced polo was all on full array for the crowds of the Southwest of England to enjoy on a blue-sky Saturday. Photography by Michael Berkeley
Simon Ledger & Lucy Wilson
Steve Walsh, Claudia Strommenger, Rowan Neidinger, Rachel Mittan & Adrienne Wise
Will Mawby & Amy Mawby
Alex Jenkins & Jamie Thomas
Jamie Hoxley, Sean Sinclair, Henry Whichelo-Page & Leon Allen
Helen Gredington & Dave Taylor
Ryan Tinggal, Jason Weall, Ben Chapman & Matthew Elliot
Barney Jacques-Grey
Peter O’Rorke & Naomi Liles
Tim Lewis & Lolly Stanhope-White
Karl Ude-Martinez, Ruso Heguy & John Kent
Fleur Turner & Matt Sim
Gastón Lauhle & Pepe Heguy
St. Regis British The British Open Polo Championship for The Cowdray Gold Cup Final; Sunday 19 July; Cowdray Park Polo Club, Midhurst
Fields of Gold
Sean Teale & Andrew Scott
The crowds gathered en masse and the jam-packed grounds, golden as if they knew the score, thrummed with anticipation as Finals Day dawned bright and cloudless. Gold Cup Finals Day is THE pinnacle of the high goal polo season here in the UK with thousands of polo fans, celebs and first timers coming to celebrate the action, the fashion, the hospitality, the family entertainment and the refreshments. The carousel which has become iconic for Finals Day provided a colourful backdrop to many an action shot and selfie as well as plenty of entertainment for the pastel-clad children that run wild around the fairground area. For those not lucky enough to find shade, solace and sustenance in the hundreds of hospitality tents and VIP enclosures that line Lawns, every space in between is transformed into a riot of picky bit picnics. Every M&S in the South of England is raided and purged, with not an olive or pot of hummus left on the shelves as the crowds prepare for the sporting spectacles of the day ahead. This year treated to two world class Finals, as the Ladies 22 Goal British Open Final took place in the morning ahead of the main Final in the afternoon, it was action, action, action and double the divot stomp, socialising opportunities. A golden day with a golden outcome. Photography by David Bennett, Mark Beaumont & Alice Gipps
Pedro Heguy & Beltrán Stirling
Seba & Agustin Merlos
Teresa Schuster, Susie Pickard & Shirley Parker-Smith
Jean-Paul Luksic & family
Pelon Stirling & Robin Lourvanij
Jaisal & Anjali Singh
Katie, Martine, Molly & Santi Perez
Huge crowds for Finals Day
Rosanna Turk, India Parker-Smith, Annie Frederick & Alice Walsh
Sophie Kennedy Clark
Sabrina Percy, Tatiana Mountbatten, Natalie Salmon & Amber Le Bon
Libby Connaughton & Lucy Schryver
Aurora Figueras, Delfina Blaquier, Elina Blaquier & Jean-Paul Luksic
Tom Clifton-Green & Erin O’Connor
Ollie Cudmore & Lujan Heguy
Tori Cook
Yoanna & Charlie Hanbury
Susan Bender Whitfield & Jack Guinness
Cruz Heguy & Mercedes Lombroni
Polo directory
What’s On – Polo Fixtures
UK
Correct at time of going to press
Beaufort 2026 Victor & Victrix Ludorum 22 Goal Guards Prince of Wales Championship Cup 18 Goal Guards Indian Challenge Cowdray Challenge Cup 15 Goal Cowdray Harrison Cup 12 Goal Guards Duke of Wellington Trophy Cowdray Autumn League 8 Goal Cowdray Holden White Cup Beaufort Wichenford Bowl 6 Goal KPPC Budgett Everett Ham Roehampton Cup Cirencester Park Kingscote Cup 4 Goal Super League Druids Lodge Druids Rose Bowl Vaux Park Super League Tedworth Park KRH Cup Victrix Ludorum Cirencester Park Cirencester Ladies 16 Goal RCBPC Polo Festival Ladies 16 Goal Guards Guards Ladies Charity Polo Trophy 16 Goal
26/07/26 09/08/26 30/06/26 18/07/26 20/07/26 02/08/26
WIP Polo Festival Ladies VL WIP WIP WIP WIP WIP
4&8 12 to 16 4&8 4 4&8 8 & 12 4
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01/08/26 08/08/26 08/08/26 15/08/26 29/08/26 29/08/26 29/08/26
02/08/26 16/08/26 09/08/26 16/08/26 30/08/26 30/08/26 30/08/26
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03/08/26
04/08/26 06/08/26 10/08/26 14/08/26 20/08/26
04/08/26 06/08/26 10/08/26 16/08/26 21/08/26
YOUTH POLO TBC Cirencester Park Vaux Park Tedworth Park Cowdray Offchurch Bury
Rocksavage & Rocksavage Earnshaw Pony Club Qualifier Tournament Pony Club Qualifier Tournament Pony Club Friendly Pony Club Championships PC Championships
Vaux Park RCBPC Tedworth Park
Sponsored Tournament Pro-Am Challenge Matches Tiger Trophy
Beaufort RCBPC Kirtlington Park Druids Lodge Cirencester Park Tedworth Park Vaux Park Silver Leys
The Wichenford Bowl VL Polo Festival Arlington Cup White Horse Trophy The Jack Williams Veterans Tournament VL Sponsored Tournament Live Financial British Country Festival Lousada The Ailesbury Club County Cup Salisbury Cup (League Finals) Barnard Trophy Canada Cup KPPC Cup Sponsored Tournament The Solitaire Salver Thorneloe 25/75 Seriously Cool Challenge The Lambourne Trophy Polo Captain’s Trophy
13/07/26 01/08/26
WOMEN’S Leadenham RCBPC Cheshire Thoresby Dart Polo Club Aspect Hurtwood Edgeworth
Beaufort Kirtlington Park Druids Lodge Cirencester Park Kirtlington Park Tedworth Park
The Sommerville LivingstoneLearmonth Trophy The Bat Cup Secretaries Cup Whippet Trophy The Wilson Trophy Blenheim Cup KRH Cup & Kadugli Cup
Kirtlington Park Cirencester Park Druids Lodge Tedworth Park Tedworth Park Kirtlington Park Vaux Park Beaufort Kirtlington Park Druids Lodge RCBPC Tedworth Park Vaux Park Silver Leys Cirencester Park Kirtlington Park Beaufort Kirtlington Park RCBPC Druids Lodge Cirencester Park Kirtlington Park Tedworth Park Vaux Park Tedworth Park
SPAIN Ayala Polo Club Ayala Polo Club Ayala Polo Club
76
55º Torneo Internacional de Polo - Copa de Bronce 55º Torneo Internacional de Polo - Copa de Plata 55º Torneo Internacional de Polo - Copa de Oro
Polo Times, August 2026
0-2 Goal Matches Print On Demand Cup The Cirencester NPM Tournament Colquhoun The Junior Beaufort Cup Alan Budgett Cup Asian Art Tournament Picnic Polo - Forest Edge Rose Bowl The Chairmans Cup One Day Tournament Full Swing Trophy 0-2 Goal Matches AGC Cup
4 to 8
21/07/26
02/08/26
2 to 6 8 6&2 4 to 8 0 2 to 4 & -4 to 0 2
21/07/26 21/07/26 30/07/26 31/07/26 01/08/26 01/08/26
02/08/26 02/08/26 02/08/26 02/08/26 02/08/26 02/08/26
01/08/26 02/08/26 02/08/26
02/08/26 02/08/26 02/08/26
03/08/26 04/08/26 05/08/26 06/08/26 07/08/26 08/08/26 08/08/26 08/08/26
16/08/26 16/08/26 09/08/26 09/08/26 09/08/26 09/08/26 09/08/26 09/08/26
11/08/26 13/08/26 13/08/26 15/08/26 15/08/26 15/08/26 15/08/26 18/08/26 19/08/26 20/08/26 21/08/26 22/08/26
23/08/26 15/08/26 16/08/26 16/08/26 16/08/26 16/08/26 16/08/26 22/08/26 23/08/26 23/08/26 23/08/26 23/08/26
22/08/26 22/08/26 23/08/26 25/08/26 25/08/26 26/08/26 27/08/26 27/08/26
23/08/26 23/08/26 24/08/26 30/08/26 06/09/26 30/08/26 31/08/26 30/08/26
6 to 10 Open -6 to -2 0&2 Open Military
28/08/26 29/08/26 29/08/26 29/08/26 31/08/26
30/08/26 29/08/26 30/08/26 30/08/26 31/08/26
TBA
27/07/26
02/08/26
8-10 & 14-16 8-10 & 14-16
06/08/26
16/08/26
20/08/26
29/08/26
RNPA v RAF v Army 4 to 8 0 to 4 2 2 0 to 4 -4 to 0 4
4 12 to 15 2 4 Goal VL -4 to 0 2 2 0 to 4 Open 4 7 to 10 0 to 2 & -4 to 0 0&2 0 to 6 6 -2 to 2 2 4 to 6 8&2
FRANCE 6-8, 12-14 & 20-22 6-8, 12-14 & 20-22 6-8, 12-14 & 20-22
27/07/26
01/08/26
03/08/26
15/08/26
17/08/26
29/08/26
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07930 323263
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01223 812922
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07901 561113
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01244 304602
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01285 653225
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01926 811 111
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01202 623985
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01722 782597
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07831 365 194
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07968 300063
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01285 821695
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07971 072336
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01344 883112
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07961 232106
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Fifield Polo Club*
01628 620061
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Great Trippetts Polo Club
01428 741916
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Guards Polo Club*
01784 434212
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Ham Polo Club
020 8334 0000
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01707 256023
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01483 272828
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01869 350138
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01452 864544
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07494 114190
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01279 450637
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New Forest Polo Club
07977 224404
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01508 480400
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07803 020577
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Oakwood Park Polo Club*
07778 436468
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07816 830887
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07713 077555
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RAF Cranwell
07739 569491
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01344 885697
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07772 040668
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Silver Leys Polo Club
07730 060200
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St. Albans Polo Club
07956 017090
info@stalbanspoloclub.co.uk
Stewarton Polo Club
07974 706045
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Suffolk Polo Club
07990 576974
aes3@cam.ac.uk
Sussex Polo Club*
01342 714920
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Taunton Vale Polo Club
07771 931541
Chairman_tcvpc@btinternet.com
Tedworth Park Polo Club*
01980 846705
info@tedworthparkpolo.com
Toulston Polo Club
07776 234638
info@toulstonpoloclub.com
Triskelion Polo Club*
07624 272547
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Vale of York Polo Club*
07788 426968
info@valeofyorkpoloclub.co.uk
Vaux Park Park Polo Club*
07703 524613
vppc@btconnect.com
vO Polo Club
01536 639018
membership@vopoloclub.com
West Wycombe Park Polo Club*
07787 560729
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
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* Also open for arena polo in the UK winter
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Polo Times, August 2026
77
Horse Riding Holidays Worldwide info@farandride.com
01462 701110
Polo directory POLO EQUIPMENT BUSINESS FOR SALE • Tack, polo equipment and clothing sold
Marketplace In association with Chukkout Polo Ponies
• Supplier to global cothing business of display items for stores • Supplier to TV & film studios • Good relationships and contacts with international suppliers • Sponsors of Pony Club Polo • Whole business for sale including stock at cost, social media, website, branded exhibition trailer, etc
Please message or call 07786095088
13-Year-Old TB Mare 15.3hh bay Thoroughbred mare. Fast, agile and strong in the ride-off with a light mouth. Has played from 2 to 18 goal and practices up to 22 goal. Powerful, easy to hit off, fully vaccinated and ready to go. £10,000, (Guildford). Tel: 07565934730
Three Argentine Polo Mares Three Argentine polo mares aged 6-11 years. Suitable for experienced low- to medium-goal players. Up to date with everything and available to try at Silver Leys Polo Club. POA, (Silver Leys Polo Club). Tel: 07599528246
Horseboxes
Equipment
7.5T Tristar DAF Lorry Partitioned for five horses with saddle racks in the front bay. 291,500 miles. MOT until June 2026. £8,000, (Devon). Tel: 07837 258471
10-Year-Old Polo-Bred Gelding 15.3hh bright bay gelding. Easy horse with a light mouth and great stop. Competed up to 8-goal and practised up to 12 goal. Safe, friendly and passed a five-stage vetting with X-rays. £12,000, (Guildford). Tel: 07565934730
2012 Mare Confidence-giving mare currently playing up to 4 goal. Sweet natured, easy to do and hacks alone or in company. Looking for a private fivestar home. POA, Tel: 07787 500043
18-Inch Polo Saddles Two 18-inch polo saddles available, one full suede and one half suede. Excellent condition. £295 each, (Offchurch / Cirencester). Tel: 07985 663889 Alvaro 14.3hh bay polo pony. Safe, kind and has played up to 8 goal. Suitable for a wide variety of riders. £28,000 incl. VAT. Tel: 07741313931 18T DAF Sleeper Cab Horsebox 11-stall horsebox with hydraulic ramp, cameras, new floor and ramp, large storage lockers and service history. £18,000 ono. Tel: 07904322403
Argie x Thoroughbred Mare 2007 Argentine x Thoroughbred mare. Reliable, sound, healthy and easy to do. Suitable for a young player or patron or those looking to do activities outside polo. £6k, (Somerford, Cheshire). Tel: 07764 757214
Submit your classified adverts online www.polotimes.co.uk or contact 01452 730770 www.polotimes.co.uk
Polo Art Beautiful Gelding 15.2hh, eight-year-old gelding, been with same owner since brought over from Argentina. Fun, soft and straightforward. Suitable for riders of varying abilities. £30,000, (Reading, Berkshire). Tel: 07917855503
POLO & PIGSTICKING PAINTINGS,PRINTS,BOOKS KEY RING ETC TEL 01934 613996
www marlboroughbooksandprints.co.uk
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 call +44 (0)7860 303217
Polo Times, August 2026
79
Final bell
Photograph by The Art of Polo
In association with Aprés Polo
20-year-old Jake Coventry has had a season to remember this year as he stormed to success with Aureus in the Semi Finals of The Queen’s Cup, scoring the golden goal against Marques de Riscal to send his team through into the prestigious Final and earn his spot as one of the most exciting and reliable young players on the UK circuit. Zambian born but British national, Coventry has been playing since he was a child and has worn the England shirt to represent his country against the USA in 2025. Playing off 3 goals he has proven himself well up to the pace, rigours and pressures of high goal polo also reaching the Finals of The DMMI Brexa Royal Windsor Cup with Green Gates. With a recent sign up to play with Ellerstina out in Argentina, it’s pretty safe to say this up-and-comer has up-and-arrived. We go behind the scenes to find out a little bit about him.
1
What is your biggest passion and why? Being at home on the farm around all the animals
2
What is your all-time best polo memory? Playing in The Cartier Queens Cup Final was an incredible experience and has to be my best memory so far.
3
Who are your favourite teammates? Would be to hard to pick, but I really enjoyed playing with Aureus this year with Diego Cavanagh, Teo Lacau and Mark Tomlinson
4
Hardest opponent? Barto, Jeta, Lorenzo and Poroto are all super tough, but all of the big names are incredibly hard to play against to be honest
5
Which sports do you like outside of polo? I really enjoy playing golf with my friends.
6
Favourite food/dish? A really nice steak
7
Favourite celebrity? Tiger Woods
8
Best holiday destination and activity? Would have to be when I go home to Zambia as I love going there and being on the farm.
9
Best pony and why? Tesia. She has a really good mouth, a big heart and is really easy to play
2
1
Photograph by The Art of Polo
3
10 Describe yourself in three words? Positive, hardworking, ambitious
Photograph by The Art of Polo
7
8
Polo Times, August 2026
of Polo
80
Photograph by The Art
9
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Polo Times, August 2026
81
Final bell
In association with Aprés Polo
BREED WITH THE BEST #CRIALOVELOCKS ENGLAND - ARGENTINA - AUSTRALIA
@lovelocks_polo_stud 82
Polo Times, August 2026
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