40TH SNOW POLO WORLD CUP ST. MORITZ Success for Kusnacht Practice
WINTER SUN GETAWAY
Explore Sotogrande’s Polo Valley
U.S. SEASON IN FULL SWING
Ylvisaker, U.S. Women’s Open & All-Star Challenge
PLUS: Ricky Cooper’s Passions, NRG Podcast Interview & New Zealand Polo Open
Evident botanicals make for a well rounded gin with fabulous complexity. The balance marks it out for universal purpose… it simply tastes great GREAT TASTE
3 STAR AWARD
Spicy and smooth, this organic gin has strong cardamon notes. Makes a great gin and tonic THE TIMES, 25 AUGUST2018
AUGUST 2018
Forget bland aromas on opening. This gin has a different twist and lends itself to botanical flavours. Add mint, basil or a strawberry to the drink – a first for this occasional gin drinker – and a winning formula is created.
TELEGRAPH VERDICT
Contributors: Lorna Edgar, Tony Ramirez/ ©www.imagesofpolo.com,
40th Snow Polo
in St. Moritz saw record breaking
By ©www.imagesofpolo.com
Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton, Glos, GL2 9LN Tel: 01452 730770 email:admin@polotimes.co.uk www.polotimes.co.uk
“In like a lion, out like a lamb”, as this March issue of Polo Times arrives on your doormat, Spring in the UK is about to arrive Particular highlights for me in this issue are, firstly, the coverage of this year’s Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz. 2025 was particularly special for this truly epic event as this year it celebrated its 40th anniversary with typical Swiss efficiency which belied the quite gargantuan efforts which are needed to make this polo spectacle, not only the best snow polo event in the world, but arguably, one of the greatest spectator events in the polo world. If you haven’t yet attended the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz, it definitely needs to be added to your bucket list!
Secondly, this issue will no doubt entertain you with its in-depth interview with polo podcast phenomena, NRG. The three amigos behind it are: Nick May, Ross Ainsley and Glen Gilmore who, in their amusing, tongue in cheek style, explain more about their podcast and what they aim to bring to the polo world. Having never before been a podcast fan, NRG now has me well and truly hooked – their relaxed style of interviewing, and self-deprecating humour, gets the best out of their guests, whilst keeping their listeners entertained –trust me, it is the perfect antidote for that long haul flight back to Blighty.
Thirdly, the Polo Times team are delighted to provide the British Professional Polo Players Association (BPPPA) with a platform to raise issues which are important to the future of polo here in England. As the BPPPA currently has 52 Members – and its Management Committee consists of the great and good of British professional polo players – its sole raison d’etre is to make England polo great again. Now wouldn’t that be MEGA? – and could this be polo’s acronym for 2025? The USPA’s new ruling affording teams in its 16 and 22 goal ‘incentives’, by way of giving 1 and 2 goal credits respectively at the start of a game for those teams which field Homegrown Player(s), is a bold and progressive initiative which the Polo Times team looks forward to seeing in action in the US from 1st May 2025. Whilst Polo Times has learnt that US patrons over the pond are already jumping on this potential 2 goal start when forming their next high goal team, crucially, as the UK now enters its fifth year since it formally left the EU, the important question now being asked back home is whether, with the EU’s shackles cast off post-Brexit, can UK polo do more for British professional polo players?
Finally – and to address the elephant in the room – thanks to all those who gave feedback on my Publisher’s Welcome, in the February issue: good, and bad, I am truly humbled at just how many people read Polo Times. Without wishing to rake over old coals, I remain of the view, it is important to underline what should be obvious: progress will never be made in improving our great sport if people are afraid to voice an opinion. Polo Times’ primary points of concern remain that a) the HPA’s selection criteria for its England Teams remains unclear, b) that young players need to be given something to work towards, and c) an inclusive environment will never be achieved unless a) and b) are in harmony. Taking this full circle, any person, or body, is always welcome to provide comment for Polo Times to publish… but to do so, there first needs to be dialogue. Therefore, if you have a comment or opinion, please contact us at: editorial@polotimes.co.uk
Alternatively, go old school, as my late father used to say, “There are two ends to a telephone”. But, if you do call, please just avoid the opening minutes on Finals Day!
As always, keep well and play safe
Nick Hine
Thoroughbred in Sport (TIS) has announced the return of The Lycett’s Thoroughbred in Sport Polo Competition on Monday 30 June at Guards Polo Club. The annual event showcases the Thoroughbred’s agility and temperament for polo whilst also bringing together both the racing and polo communities.
At the time of going to press, the British Professional Polo Players Association (BPPPA) had taken part in a meeting with the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) on Thursday 20 February. This is a great step forward for opening the dialogue for the betterment of English polo.
The main agenda for the meeting was how the BPPPA and the HPA could work together moving forward and one of the main topics on this was the Homegrown Player Rule and how this is implemented in polo going forwards. Following the meeting on 20 February, the BPPPA hopes for a further meeting in the coming months ahead of the start of the 2025 outdoor season in the UK.
The BPPPA’s objectives are:
1. Act as a co-ordinating body for professional polo players in the United Kingdom
2. Discuss, raise and negotiate rights and conditions for professional polo players in the United Kingdom
3. Protect the interests of professional polo players in the United Kingdom
The BPPPA currently has 52 Members and the Management Committee consists of:
Jack Richardson (Chairperson)
Mark Tomlinson
Tomas Beresford
Hazel Jackson
James Beim
Louis Hine
Ollie Cudmore
The BPPPA commented “Polo being a mainly amateur sport makes it hard for systems to be put in place, so we thought an Association just for professional players is the best way to move forwards.
As the decisions made in polo directly affect professionals and their livelihoods, the aim of the BPPPA is to have a representative on all major committees within the HPA.
Every major sport in the UK has a Pro Players Association that has quarterly meetings with the governing body and that is what we would like to try and achieve from this meeting onwards… to help build bridges and have decent communication with the HPA and other major stakeholders of polo in the United Kingdom”.
While this year’s Gauntlet of Polo is in full swing, changes coming into effect as of 1 May 2025 will see changes to all USPA Events with changes to the ‘American Rule’. In an effort to support the increase of American polo players on tournament rosters, the High-Goal Committee and Rules Committee revised the rule in January 2023 which stated that a team with a non-playing sponsor must have at least two players who are both Registered Player Members (a Registered Player Member is a U.S. Citizen registered through an Active Member or Affiliate Member Club).
In order to support American players, the USPA have gone a stage further and updated this rule that benefits Registered Player Members of the USPA who plan to compete in USPA Outdoor Events with an upper handicap limit of sixteen (16) goals and above (‘USPA Outdoor High-Level Events’) summarised below:
– American player: A Registered Player Member shall be U.S. citizens who are not known to the Association to be under suspension by the Hurlingham Polo Association (the ‘HPA’), the Association of Argentine Polo (the ‘AAP’), or the Federation of International Polo (‘FIP’), and who are registered through an Active Member Club, Provisional Member Club, or Affiliate Member Club.
– Homegrown Player: a Registered Player Member as defined in the Association’s Constitution who provides the USPA with definitive proof that at least one of his or her biological parents is (or was) also a U.S. citizen shall be considered a Homegrown Player. A Registered Player Member as defined in the Association’s Constitution and By-Laws who provides the USPA with definitive proof that one of his or her adoptive parents is (or was) also a U.S. citizen shall also be considered a Homegrown Player, provided
that he or she was adopted by that parent prior to reaching the age of ten (10) years old.
– Teams that use Homegrown Players in USPA Outdoor High-Level Events will receive the benefit of a one (1) goal credit toward the calculation of the team handicap for each Homegrown Player on the team other than the sponsor or designated sponsor; and
– The aggregate Homegrown Player credit available to any team will be limited to one (1) goal in USPA Outdoor Events with an upper handicap limit of sixteen (16) to twenty-one (21) goals, and to two (2) goals in USPA Outdoor Events with an upper handicap limit of twenty-two (22) goals or more.
To read more about the rule change and the documents needed to qualify, please visit www.uspolo.org/news-social/news
In response to the USPA’s ‘American Rule’ adjustments and incentives for including Homegrown Players in teams in America the HPA commented:
“The HPA is aware of the new USPA Home Grown Player Rule and will observe with interest the effects of it on U.S. polo. The U.S. operates under a very different legislative and legal framework from the U.K. regarding nationality-based team requirements and has more flexibility when introducing more specific team requirements. We remain committed to fair and open polo in a highly competitive environment at all levels in the UK and will monitor the impact of our new rule for the 2025 season and consider areas for further improvement”.
On Sunday 26 January, Zapican BMW beat Concord Equity Group 10-8 at The National Polo Center – Wellington, in The Joe Barry Memorial Final. Ignacio Viana was named Most Valuable Player and Yatay Bengala, played by Viana, was the Best Playing Pony.
The tournament is played in memory of Joe Barry whose impressive career included winning the 1971 Coronation Cup, three USPA Gold Cup titles and six U.S. Open Championships – in 1999 he was inducted into the Polo Hall of Fame.
The Joe Barry Memorial Cup is the first of four qualifying tournaments (followed by The Ylvisaker Cup, The Iglehart Cup and Outback Cup) for The NPC 16 Goal Championship Final which will be played on Sunday 13 April at The National Polo Center – Wellington.
The Joe Barry Memorial Cup Final Teams:
Zapican BMW (16): Vance Miller III (1), Stevie Orthwein (3), Ignacio Viana (7) & Felipe Viana (5)
Concord Equity Group (16): Dana Barnes (0), Jeff Hall (5), Nicolás Escobar (6) & Lucas Escobar (5)
On Saturday 25 January, the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Awards presented at Cheltenham Festival Trials Day brought together over 200 attendees from the racing and equestrian communities and celebrated 25 years of RoR. Dark Hedges was chosen as the 2024 RoR Elite Polo Champion. Dark Hedges, a 10-year-old mare by Zebedee out of Bella Chica, was bred by the renowned Gordon Thom at New Hall Stud in Ayr, Scotland. She raced 12 times under rules for Lincolnshire-based trainer Olly Williams before transitioning to a polo career with Ed Morris. In 2024, she joined England’s Matt Perry and was named Best Playing RoR in The Coronation Cup against Argentina. Dark Hedges is known as Poppita at home and played in the Gold Cup, Coronation Cup and The Prince of Wales Championship Cup before being turned out. As a long-term supporter of fomer racehorses, this is the fourth time Perry has picked
A visiting England side took on North Island and South Island teams in New Zealand on Friday 31 January and Thursday 6 February respectively.
New Zealand and England went head-tohead on Friday 31 January at Mystery Creek in the first of two international Test Matches. A hard-fought six chukkas saw England secure themselves an 11-9 win.
The Best Playing Pony chosen by the English side was Joe, an Ainsley bred 10-year-old chestnut gelding owned by Jack Tito Bennett and played by Jimbo Fewster.
Valerie won the Love Racing prize, a seven-year-old mare by Giant Steps out of a Shocking mare. Bred by DM Arnold and Kakapo Lodge. She was unraced and owned by Harry Semenoff and played by Jimbo Fewster. Jimbo Fewster was also chosen as the Most Valuable Player.
On Thursday 6 February, New Zealand beat England at Glenmark Polo. This was the second Test Match between the two countries, with England taking the win earlier in the month against a North Island side. On Thursday the score was even at
up his award. Perry commented, ‘I played Poppita for about two months before she went out in the field for a rest, and she just got better and better as she got used to playing that level of polo. Hopefully, this year she will be one of my main mares, playing for White Crane in the Queen’s Cup and the Gold Cup. She’s an amazing mare; she’s got a super head on her and she’s unbelievably agile. She’s not so much of a big powerhouse but she’s super handy.’
2024 RoR Elite Award Winners:
RoR Elite Dressage Champion – Tapaidh Frankie, owned and ridden by Tracy Thirlwall
RoR Elite Polo Champion – Dark Hedges, owned and ridden by Matt Perry
RoR Elite Endurance Champion – Art Mauresque, owned and ridden by Hayley Gilmore
Tattersalls RoR Elite Showing Champion – Minella Rebellion, owned and ridden by Katie Dashwood
RoR Tattersalls Supreme Champion – Gentleman at Arms, owned and ridden by Harriet Edmunds
RoR Elite Eventing Champion – Bayaanaatt, part-owned and ridden by Izzy Taylor
RoR Elite Showjumping Champion – The Iron Factor, owned and ridden by Jessie Welch
half time but New Zealand pulled away in the second half to take an 11-8 win. Lachie Appleby received the Most Valuable Player prize; the Best Retrained Thoroughbred was Tiger, owned by Ange Norrie and played by Jimbo Fewster; Champion Pony was Smash, owned by George Andrews and played by Fewster and Best Pony picked by the English team was Arya, played by Ollie Jones and owned by Ru Barlow.
The North Island International Teams: New Zealand North Island (14): Edward Elworthy Jones (3), Ethan Wade (3), Dean Fullerton (3) & Glenn Sherriff (5) England (14): Captain Jimbo Fewster (5), Will Harper (5), Ben Malasomma (3) & Charlotte Pykett (1)
The South Island International Teams: England (14): Captain Jimbo Fewster (5), Will Harper (5), Ben Malasomma (3) & Charlotte Pykett (1)
South Island New Zealand (14): Lachie Appleby (3), Sam Martin (3), Guy Higginson (4) & Charlie Wood (3)
On Sunday 16 February, the Argentine Polo Association (AAP) published a statement relating to genetically manipulated or edited horses. Currently, the AAP’s stance is ‘genetically manipulated or edited horses will not be permitted by the AAP for the game of polo, in any official or unofficial tournament, whether in the AAP or in any associated club.’ However, the AAP is inviting ‘clubs, players, breeders and other public and private entities that wish to work together to debate, research and plan long-term new techniques that may arise and their impact on the sport and the polo industry, and to establish their regulatory framework.’ To read the statement in full, visit the AAP website (aapolo.com).
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Given the demands of polo, maintaining peak physical fitness should be a non-negotiable for players
“Their assessments can detect up to 92 percent and 95 percent of the causes of preventable death among men and women respectively”
Often dubbed the ‘Sport of Kings’, polo is dynamic and exhilarating. Combining high levels of athleticism, strategy, and a unique bond between player and horse it demands that players be in peak physical and mental condition to face the rigorous challenges of the sport. As with any high-intensity sport, game preparation starts far beyond the field of play.
Much like the care and maintenance that goes into practice and working as a team during a game, a discreet and fully comprehensive full-body MoT, helps prioritise your health and guarantees you can continue to savour the game’s finest moments with the same vigour and grace.
Established 15 years ago Echelon Health brings together 30 years of clinical expertise, the most advanced imaging technology and unparalleled client service to offer the world’s leading health assessments available today. Their assessments can
identify tumours as small as 1 – 2mm and detect up to 92 percent and 95 percent of the causes of preventable death among men and women respectively.
Echelon Health is unique in that not only do they look under the ‘bonnet’ to see inside the body in incredible detail, but they also recognise that no ‘one size fits all’ scanner that can be used to detect all disease. Utilising a combination of the most advanced MRI, CT and Ultrasound technology,
alongside comprehensive blood tests, every client receives a highly comprehensive set of results with onwards advice that allows them to continue thriving.
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Clients undergoing a Platinum or Gold health assessment benefit from the use of their own private suite throughout the day. Offering a private and tranquil base to be used in-between tests and scans, the suite ensures the day of assessment is as stress free as it is efficient.
Dr David Wilson, Past President of the British Institute of Radiology said of Echelon Health –“The service they are providing at present is, in my opinion, the best that can be achieved in current practice with existing knowledge.”
Staying game ready extends beyond regular training sessions and practice matches. By prioritising health, athletes can not only improve their performance but also enjoy a longer, healthier career in this thrilling sport. So, before you saddle up and head out to play your next chukka, ask yourself: Are you truly game ready?
St. Moritz lay under a thick blanket of snow after a heavy overnight snowfall on Finals Day at The 40th Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz. While the wintry conditions posed challenges for the morning’s opening match, by the time Kusnacht Practice and Azerbaijan – Land of Fire rode onto the frozen Lake St. Moritz, the sun had broken through in full splendour, casting its golden warmth over the gathered spectators. The setting for the Final was nothing short of breathtaking – pristine white snow, brilliant bluebird skies, and a delicate scattering of fluffy clouds completing the picture-perfect alpine scene.
To read more about the 40th anniversary tournament, please turn to the Reports pages.
w
The 40th anniversary Finals Day sees epic snowfall
JAN 24 JAN
Where: St. Moritz, Switzerland
This year the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz celebrated its Ruby anniversary. An incredible 40 years have passed since a seemingly crazy idea to play polo on the spectacular frozen lake of St. Moritz was thought up by the ‘Godfather of Snow Polo’ Reto Gaudenzi, Founder, CEO and Vice President of Board of Evviva Polo St. Moritz AG. As a local to the St. Moritz area, Reto brought the concept to a reality, hosting some of the best polo players, jet-set glitterati, the world’s media and also, personally competing and notching up an impressive five wins in the tournament himself.
And what an incredible 40 years it has been. Since that memorable weekend in 1985 The Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz has established itself as the world’s premier tournament on snow and has become an integral part of the global polo calendar for players and spectators keen to experience this ‘must see’ event. It has been an extraordinary journey to achieve unparallelled luxury, sporting excellence and exclusivity, all wrapped up with the best of Swiss efficiency and outstanding Engadin hospitality.
Every year, the event goes from strength to strength, with the VIP hospitality and Gala Dinner evening sold out months in advance as 26,000 spectators converge onto the frozen lake to witness the unique event.
With 260 of the world’s press gathered, camera shutters clicked and influencers posed for selfies against the stunning alpine Engadine backdrop as Champagne flowed in packed stands and the best VIP hospitality was enjoyed.
This year the six international teams representing nine nationalities took to the perfectly frozen lake (the ice was 40cm deep this year) to
compete; the tournament is unique as it attracts some world-class players, amongst those this year were Alejandro Novillo Astrada – competing on the frozen lake for the ninth time, for World Polo League alongside the ever- flamboyant and snow polo regular Nic Roldan off 7 goals.
Notable players travelling from England were tournament five-time winner Max Charlton playing for Team Taos, alongside former Queen’s Cup winner and Berkshire-based Dillon Bacon who had teamed up with his Milan-based brother Cameron, with 7 goal Alfredo Bigatti completing the team with the strongest British connections. Chris Mackenzie, who is a well-known regular on the UK circuit and was fantastically well-mounted on some incredible ponies made his snow polo debut, alongside Isidro Strada for The Kushnacht Practice. Their skill as professionals, teamed with a good value Franscisco Belaustegui off 3 goals and a very capable patron in the form of Eduardo Greghi meant they were strong from the start and stormed their way through to ultimate victory.
Their strings were trucked in from far and wide, with ponies arriving in St. Moritz to be put up in heated stables where every comfort is catered for by the army of grooms and managers who are accommodated in hotels close by in resort. Arriving from England, Switzerland, Italy and beyond the organisation and administration to get these teams onto the frozen lake is a Herculean feat.
As they say, the cycles and circles of life have a rhythm and this was certainly the case on Final’s Day as we saw history repeating itself as snow fell heavily. This mirrored the snowstorm 40 years ago when the first ever Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz in 1985 was played.
1ST PLACE
The Kusnacht Practice (16)
Eduardo Greghi (0)
Francisco Belaustegui (3)
Chris Mackenzie (6)
Isidro Strada (7)
2ND PLACE
Azerbaijan – Land of Fire (14)
Elchin Jamalli (2)
Tarlan Gurbanaliyev (0)
Adrian Laplacette Jr (6)
Raul Laplacette (6)
3RD PLACE
World Polo League (16)
Melissa Ganzi (0)
Jason Crowder (5)
Alejandro Novillo Astrada (7)
Mariano Gracida (4)
4TH PLACE
Flexjet (15)
Jonathan Tidswell-Pretorius/
Niclas Johansson (0)
Pelayo Berazadi (5)
Facu Sola (8)
Tito Gaudenzi (2)
5TH PLACE
Mackage (16)
Benji Daniels (1)
Grant Ganzi (3)
Nic Roldan (7)
Tommy Collingwood (5)
Commentator: ‘
6TH PLACE
TAOS (16)
Cameron Bacon (0)
Dillon Bacon (3)
Max Charlton (6)
Alfredo Bigatti (7)
26,000
was another
with over
“Six international teams representing nine nationalities took to the perfectly frozen lake”
Tournament Action at a Glance
Friday 24 January
Match 1
TAOS beat Mackage, 9-5
Match 2
World Polo League beat Flexjet, 6-4½
Match 3
Azerbaijan – Land of Fire beat Kusnacht Practice, 5½-5
Saturday 25 January
Match 1 (The President’s Cup)
Flexjet beat Mackage, 7½-7
Match 2 (Semi Final 1: The One & Only Trophy)
Kusnacht Practice beat TAOS, 6-4
Match 3 (Semi Final 2: The WAMI Trophy)
Azerbaijan – Land of Fire beat World Polo League, 3½-3
Sunday 26 January
Match 1 (The Casablanca Trophy)
Mackage beat TAOS in penalty shootout
Match 2 (The Mackage Trophy)
World Polo League beat Flexjet, 7-5½
Match 3 (The Snow Polo World Cup Trophy)
Kusnacht Practice beat Azerbaijan – Land of Fire, 5-4½
Ever the pragmatist and always the optimist, the ever-charming Reto Gaudenzi embraced the challenge which reminded him of the historic first snow polo match in 1985 in which he competed, “It is called snow polo for a reason!” he exclaimed. The ever-efficient organisers had a busy morning to clear the deep snow from the polo field and Polo Village making everything safe for ponies, players and spectators alike. With over a foot of snow, Mackage and TAOS battled it out in powder polo for The Casablanca Trophy in the first action of Finals day with players, ponies and spectators alike wrapped up warm against the elements. A very balanced match was reflected in the 1-1 score at the end of the fourth chukka and a penalty shootout was needed to decide the winner. Mackage’s accuracy ultimately secured them the win and with it The Casablanca Trophy for fifth place.
As the snow obligingly continued to gently and picturesquely fall, the sun began to peek through the clouds, bathing the arena in ethereal light for the Subsidiary Final for The MACKAGE Trophy between Flexjet and World Polo League. The ground was given extra attention before the second match, allowing for a denser and faster playing surface for the all-toplay for second match of the day. The packed stands enjoyed a cat and mouse game between the two sides as they fought for dominance throughout the first half. Despite Flexjet soaring high and starting the fourth chukka with a goal to bring them within half a goal, 6-5½, World Polo League’s Jason Crowder converted a decisive penalty to secure the win, 7-5½ and with it The MACKAGE Trophy for third place.
Reto Gaudenzi, must have the weather gods on speed dial, as for yet another year the sky was clear with the sun shining on the polo righteous as Kusnacht Practice and Azerbaijan - Land of Fire lined up for the Swiss National anthem before the Final.
Azerbaijan - Land of Fire started the match with a 1½ goal start on handicap, which they swiftly capitalised on, including a searing goal from Team Captain Elchin Jamalli. They were a team truly on fire, keen to make their titles in 2021 and 2022 into a hat-trick. The first chukka ended with a much-needed morale boost goal for local team and 2024 finalists, Kusnacht Practice, which was followed by another at the start of the second chukka – the game was truly on and the spectators were on the edge of their seats – with the party atmosphere kicking off as music pumped over the packed grandstands during breaks in play.
Kusnacht Practice went from strength to strength, cooly and calmly forcing Azerbaijan - Land of Fire into defence. A huge, lofted shot at a seemingly impossible angle at the end of the third chukka from Chris Mackenzie moved Kusnacht Practice into the lead by the narrowest of margins, 4-3½. With half a goal in it, there was all to play for in the last chukka and the end-to-end polo delighted the sunbaked crowds as both sides scored a goal apiece. With less than a minute left, the players changed onto fresh horses to give them the edge in the final moments, but time was on Kusnacht Practice’s side this year as the clock ran down and they ran out with a thrilling win, 5-4½. An exceptional end to an extraordinary 40th anniversary weekend.
After a thrilling and epic three days of polo which saw nine matches played in front of over 26,000 people, the historic 40th Ruby anniversary edition of the oldest and most iconic snow polo
event in the world drew to a close. After three days of world-class polo, fantastic hospitality and worldbeating spectacle it was time for St. Moritz to say farewell until next year.
Reto Gaudenzi enthused, “What a finish! The sun came out and we were treated to fantastic matches with an unbelievable Final with a completely full house, plus ecstatic spectators and wonderful polo – truly St. Moritz at its best!”
This year was a complete sell out, with record numbers of spectators enjoying the best snow polo in the world over the tournament. To see this truly remarkable event sure you get organised and book for next year as the tournament enters its fourth decade. The 2026 dates for The Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz have been confirmed as Friday 30 January – Sunday 1 February, so to be part of the St. Moritz ‘polo family’ yourself next year, please get the dates in your diary now!
“The historic 40th Ruby anniversary edition of oldest and most iconic snow polo event in the world drew to a close”
For social snaps from the tournament, please turn to our Sidelines pages
Cocktails, fizz, draught lager, craft beers
Full bar service bespoke for your event
Miniature bottles of British Polo Gin
Customised bottles to commemorate your big day
Cocktail Masterclasses, Polo Days Out at the UK’s leading Polo Clubs
Gourmet seasonal dishes, locally ethically sourced (BBQ, buffet etc)
The NRG Podcast – The horse that asked why and other stories, is a podcast dedicated to helping horses and their owners. With a mission statement of “improve the quality of life of horses and improve people’s relationships with horses” hosts Nick May, Ross Ainsley and Glen Gilmore interview not only polo players but those outside the sport with the aim of learning what we can take into our lives and help our horses. This podcast is all about the horses who try so hard for us. The podcast has spoken to some big-name guests from both the polo and wider equestrian world.
Polo Times caught up with the hosts of the show Nick May, Ross Ainsley and Glen Gilmore and in their usual tongue in cheek style, we found out a bit more about what they are doing and why they are doing it.
Can you tell us about your backgrounds in the sport and how you all became friends?
Whilst it’s fair to say Nick, Ross, and Glen (NRG) are all addicted to horses, they have all had very different journeys to where they are today. Glen is a third-generation player who has travelled the world playing, commentating, and coaching. Following a career ending injury Ross, also Australian, left Rhythmic Gymnastics (where his groundbreaking ribbon and jazz combo saw him crowned Gymnastics King 1992 of New South Wales) started as a polocrosse player and show jumper and then became a professional polo player, before focusing on training polo ponies and developing tack and equipment solutions (Ainsley Saddlery) in New Zealand. Nick is an enthusiastic
English amateur (10 goals under the Norwegian Polo Association, of which he is Chairman of the Handicap Committee…) who lives in Norway for whom the saying “A little bit of knowledge is a dangerous thing” could be applied to his dealings with horses. The more time he spent with horses, the less Nick realised he knew, so he repeatedly turned to Glen and Ross for advice and guidance which has improved the life of his horses and reduced the number of trips to hospital he’s had to make. Nick, it would be fair to say, has done nothing for Ross and Glen in return.
Nick met Glen when they were both playing at Coworth Park where, for some reason the two seemed to get along. Glen was 8 goals, the Captain of the Australian Polo Team and playing for a number of teams in the Guards and Berkshire
area. Despite the enormous difference in skillset and capability they a shared an infantile sense of humour and love of the film Dumb and Dumber (possibly the best film ever made) which saw the two quickly become friends.
Nick met Ross when the two were competing in the first tournament to be hosted in the centre of Copenhagen. Ross was so impressed and intimidated by Nick’s raw physical ability, controversial riding style and unique hitting technique that from that day he knew that he had met a mentor and role model that he would look up to with almost childlike adoration for the rest of his life.
As it turns out, Ross and Glen were already great friends (Ross is Glen’s daughter’s Godfather) and although it took almost a year for the three to join the dots that they knew each other, when they did, it formed a firm friendship you don’t come across very often.
When did you start the NRG Podcast?
After googling “How to do a podcast” and watching a lot of YouTube episodes on how to edit sound, the first episode went out in December 2021.
Why did you start the NRG Podcast?
As most people do, we set up a group chat about 10 years ago which consisted of Nick constantly asking Ross and Glen for thoughts and feedback on every aspect of playing, horsemanship, tack set up, bitting, you name it. Nick was trying to train horses and kept making mistakes, essentially the horses kept asking why and he didn’t have the answer and was worried about making mistakes.
We came to realise that the knowledge and insights that these two had was something that other people might be interested in. We also realised that with the reach and contacts that Ross and Glen had, we could bring on a number of guests that, through their knowledge and experience, might improve the quality of life of horses and improve people’s relationship with their horses. It’s a pretty lofty ideal and we aren’t sure we are hitting the mark, but we are trying. Horses give us so much we felt we had a chance to give something back. We are all polo players, so it’s got a pretty heavy polo bias, but we are trying to bring in other disciplines that we might learn from. Glen and Nick try and make it entertaining as well.
Nick explains, “The podcast has never been about celebrity or financial gain. In an age where the equestrian world is under intense scrutiny this is just three guys who are passionate about horses, with different experience levels and experiences, who had a network where we could bring different people to the table to share their experiences and knowledge, ultimately for the betterment of horses.”
How does recording work when you are all around the world?
With the three of us in different time zones most of the time coordination is a bit of a challenge. Its either late in the southern hemisphere or early in the northern, but we seem to have been able to make it work so far. We record using a virtual studio that isolates all our different sound channels and then Ross downloads the interviews and gets to work editing for content and quality. We have a long way to go yet but he does an incredible job, and we really can’t thank him enough for all the hours he puts in. He’s incredible.
How do you decide on topics for your episodes? We talk pretty much every day, so the topics fall out from the conversations we are having at the time. Occasionally someone will come up with a really random topic and we’ll start discussing and before we know it someone knows someone who can shed a bit of light on the topic, and we try and organise an interview around that.
What’s your process for selecting and reaching out to guests?
We are impressed you think there is a process. We basically reach out and harass people until they give in and agree to come on the show.
What is the most challenging part of having the Podcast?
Three major challenges:
• Consistent sound quality – We have tried different microphone set ups, different editing software and tried outsourcing to professionals through Fiverr but we aren’t there yet, and we really want to improve the listener experience.
• Time management – Trying to get a time that works for three people, in three different professions, in three different time zones and then adding a fourth as the guest is challenging.
• Not getting over excited and talking over the top of each other. Some of us are better at this than others.
What is the best part of the Podcast?
There are three things that Nick really enjoys:
• The guests – To date, all our guests have been unbelievable and given us so much time and been so free with their knowledge.
• Getting to catch up with two of the most knowledgeable equestrians and polo players who just happen to be two of the best friends I could hope for. I love these two and it is a constant source of frustration that we live so far apart. Do not tell them I said that.
• The listeners – We get amazing feedback from our listeners. We are heading into our fourth year and every time we get a message that someone has enjoyed an episode, found some information useful (to them or their horse) or it has put a smile on their face it’s like the sun coming out. We are in such an incredibly privileged position to be able to do that.
Plans for the future?
In short, we want to do more. Get more information out in more formats. We are doing two live events so far this year. The first is at Oxford Polo, who have been huge supporters of the show since the beginning on 30 May 2025 and the second is at Vaux Park Polo Club on 20 June 2025.
We hope to do a few others, but those ones are locked in. In those events we will cover tactics, tack fitting and some horsemanship topics and EVERYONE is welcome. All proceeds will go to charity so please come along; we would love to see you.
What is next for your podcast – any exciting plans or changes?
We talk about this a lot about this, and we aren’t sure. Our listeners seem to like what we are doing so we think its just a question of doing more until the path forward is clearer.
Actually, we think that’s the biggest change we want to make. More, we want to do more and hopefully make more of a difference. We are also acutely aware that a lot of what we talk about is very visual, so we want to start doing more filmed episodes to put up on YouTube.
Did you have any experience in broadcasting or media before starting?
Glen had done a lot of commentating prior to the podcast; Nick had featured in a few special interest websites and Ross had done some stunt double work for Brad Pitt. Other than that, not really.
The name NRG is self-explanatory – were there any other names that were vetoed?
We had a lot of false starts before we landed on The NRG Podcast – The horse that asked why and other stories:
• Three idiots on horses
• Something about horses
• And three talked horse shit
Bellamar Pampa Norte comeback, but by the fifth and sixth chukkas, it was Lavinia who were controlling the action with Carlos María Ulloa and Manuel Giménez Villamil commanding the team from the back and combining well with their forwards, Ramon Cassino and Jack Whitman to secure Lavinia their first Thai Polo Cup title, 10½-4.
• Human versus horse
• Two horsemen – three idiots
• Horse drawn
• The Horse Vagabonds
The Hipwood and Rocksavage, which have previously been Junior HPA tournaments, will now be merged into the Pony Club from this season onwards, while the Buckmaster section will be discontinued. The format of Hipwood and Rocksavage will remain unchanged, with three and four chukka matches on private grounds over 4 – 17 July, which will allow players to also compete in other Pony Club tournaments. Hipwood and Rocksavage players will be required to be members of both the HPA
• The horse that asked why We landed on the last one and then Glen suggested we add the NRG podcast, and then we realised there would inevitably be other stories that came out as well.
Who has been your most memorable guest, and why?
It’s really difficult because we have had some big names like Pelón Stirling, Eduardo Heguy, Nico Pieres, Andrew Hoy, Andrew and Anne Lise Balding, Pat Parelli, Monty Roberts and Clinton Anderson but we have also had some less wellknown guests who have been incredibly interesting. Every guest we have had on has brought something completely different so it’s very difficult to pick one.
Have you ever had a difficult interview? How did you handle it?
We haven’t had one yet, but we put that down to trying to make the guests feel super relaxed before we start recording. What also helps is that Glen does an incredible job researching all the guests in so much detail it seems to set a great stage for
Argentine Association of Horse Breeders’ Best Playing Pony: Future Lituania, played by Carlos María Ulloa
and Pony Club; all Pony Club members less than 3 goals will play a flat rate of £50 for their HPA membership. Andrew Barlow, Chairman of the HPA Development and Coaching Committee, commented, “A vital HPA role is to promote grassroots polo and the development of young polo players. In combining the previous Junior HPA with Pony Club tournaments, this allows us to enhance our long-term objectives of promoting talent for the benefit of all players and the sport in the future. With generous
Best Playing Pony of the Final: Alberta Belvedere, played by Carlos María Ulloa
financial support from Park Place this new partnership enables us to focus on our structured development pathway whilst wholeheartedly supporting and promoting Pony Club Polo”. For more information on Pony Club polo please contact Charles Whittington, or for Hipwood and Rocksavage specifically contact Jilly Emerson.
when she asked if he could join the podcast when he was recovering from that rash. We haven’t recovered from that yet.
Do you have a favourite episode of your own podcast?
It’s not really down to us. It’s what the listeners like
Fair Play Award: Carlos Braun
support and encouragement. It’s been amazing so far. Thank you all.
However, behind the fun and stories we never lose sight of the fact that we want to do this for the horses. We have a duty to give our horses the best lives we can, and we all have a part to play in that story.
What’s one mistake you made early on that you’ve learned from?
The biggest mistake was listening to Ross’ mum
We want to thank all of our listeners for their
The Ylvisaker Cup is the second leg of The NPC 16 Goal Championship, which comprises of The Joe Barry Memorial Cup (won by Zapican BMW in January), Ylvisaker Cup, Iglehart Cup and Outback Cup. The series is hosted by multiple clubs and The Ylvisaker matches up to the Semi Finals were played at Patagones Polo Club.
The Final saw undefeated SD Farms face off against Bientina in a highly anticipated contest. SD Farms went into the Final as the only unbeaten team out of the 12 teams that took part and although Bientina had suffered one defeat on their road to the Final (10-5 loss against Copperline),
they denied Joe Barry Memorial winners, Zapican BMW, progression to the Final with a 12-5 victory in the Semi Finals.
SD Farms’ Mariano Obregón opened the scoring, but Bientina’s Federico Panzillo quickly levelled the scores and set the tone for the remainder of the game. Panzillo, who was named Most Valuable Player, entered the Final as The Ylvisaker Cup’s leading goal scorer, with 27 goals to his name. His tally of 11 in the Final included six converted penalties.
SD Farms managed just one more goal in the first half, courtesy of team owner Sayyu Dantata and went into half-time with a daunting
11-2 deficit. Once Bientina found their rhythm, there was little SD Farms could do to halt their momentum and by the start of the sixth chukka, the team in maroon had extended their lead to 18-2. A late push from SD Farms, with two field goals from Dantata and one apiece from Harrison Azzaro and Cesar ‘Peco’ Polledo in the final chukka, narrowed the gap but could not alter the outcome. By the final whistle, Bientina had delivered a dominant performance, securing a resounding 18-6 victory to claim The Ylvisaker Cup title.
No one had expected such a one-sided match. “We expected that it was going to be a super tough game. We were lucky and were able to get in a
rhythm, but they are a great team and they have been playing great,” said González Sr., “It’s the first time for Valentino [Carlotti] to play so we didn’t have it in mind to win. We were trying to play well and to be organised.” Carlotti first learnt to ride just four years ago and this year made his 16 goal debut in The Ylvisaker Cup, he commented on his team’s win, “You only dream of doing this and to do this in our first 16-goal when the stands are packed, friends and family are around and the team played incredibly, it feels so awesome!”
Most Valuable Player Panzillo’s opening goal came while riding Geisha, a grey American Thoroughbred mare owned by González Sr., who was later awarded Best Playing Pony. Geisha had previously claimed a Best Playing Pony blanket playing with González’s son, Mariano ‘Peke’ González Jr., in the 2019 Westchester Cup. Panzillo rode her in both the first and sixth chukkas commenting, “She’s very easy… I don’t know why but when I start the match on Geisha I [always] score a goal!”
Over 4,000 spectators gathered at Auckland Polo Club to enjoy The 48th NZ Polo Open Final, where Swift Roofing and Brinks went head-to-head in a thrilling contest. The day was also a celebration of style. Spectators embraced the occasion, arriving in impeccable polo chic as the Fashion Quarterly ‘Fashion at the Polo’ competition saw a record number of entrants, with three impeccably dressed attendees winning the coveted titles of Best Dressed Lady, Best Dressed Gentleman, and Best Accessory.
The action ignited early, with Swift Roofing’s Thomas Hunt opening the scoring, setting the tone for an exciting day of polo. Among the standout performances was Indi Bennetto, who as one of only two women ever to feature in a winning NZ Polo Open team, played a crucial role in her team’s success and commented “Women in polo is the largest growing sector, which is seriously exciting”. Bennetto faced her partner, Nick Keyte, who played for Brinks and added to the drama. Swift Roofing delivered an 11-8 win for their fans, while the Brinks team received the Standing Rock Fair Play Award in
recognition of their sportsmanship and positive attitude throughout the tournament.
For Swift Roofing, this triumph carried deep significance.
FEB FINAL 11 FEB
Patron Harry Jnr Semenoff had pursued the NZ Polo Open title for eight years, inspired by the legacy of his late father. Their victory was not just a testament to their skill and strategy but also to their unwavering perseverance. ““This win is a tribute to the legacy of my family, and to everyone who believed in us through the years, we’re incredibly proud to bring the trophy home after such a hard-fought battle.”
Where: Grand Champions Polo Club, Wellington, Florida
The World Polo League began its seventh season with The All-Star Challenge at Grand Champions Polo Club. The Final also marked the third edition of the Riemenschneider Memorial; Andrea Riemenschneider selected a silver plate, originally gifted to Richard’s parents on their wedding anniversary, as the perpetual trophy in honour of Richard Riemenschneider, who passed away in September 2022. A dedicated supporter of the sport, his service to the Polo Training Foundation, Virginia Polo Center, and USPA through volunteering, fundraising, and mentoring left a lasting polo legacy.
The Final was an historic 64 goal match, with three 10 goal players competing across seven chukkas. Casablanca made a strong start in the first chukka, working well as a team to establish a 3-0 lead, courtesy of two goals from Caset and one from Ganzi.
Santa Rita responded in the second chukka by tightening their defence, making it a more tactical contest. Zubia scored Santa Rita’s first goal to narrow the deficit to 3-1, although they missed three other opportunities to score. Casablanca continued to contain Santa Rita’s attacking play in the third chukka. Caset added another goal, extending Casablanca’s advantage to 4-1. The fourth chukka saw Casablanca maintain control. Caset scored from 90 yards out to make it 5-1, followed by a well-worked goal from Panelo, set up by Ganzi, to increase the lead to 6-1.
Santa Rita rallied in the fifth chukka, scoring three unanswered goals. Roldan converted two penalties and MacDonough added another, reducing Casablanca’s lead to 6-4 by the end of the chukka. In the sixth chukka, Nero set up Ganzi with a long pass to extend Casablanca’s lead to 7-4. Roldan replied with another penalty to make it 7-5, but Santa Rita were unable to add to their tally as Casablanca’s defence held firm.
The seventh and final chukka saw chances for both sides, but the game became a defensive battle. Caset secured the result with his fifth and final goal just before the whistle, sealing an 8-5 victory.
The WPL continues with The Founders Cup (19 February – 2 March), The Palm Beach Open (5 – 23 March) and The Triple Crown of Polo (26 march – 19 April).
Santa Rita (32)
Tomacho Pieres (6)
Pablo Mac Donough (10)
Nic Roldan (7)
Juan Martín Zubía (9)
Casablanca (32)
Grant Ganzi (3)
Sapo Caset (9)
Tomás Panelo (10)
Juan Martín Nero (10)
Caset
The 20 goal Silver Cup opens The Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series (DPGCS). The series is played throughout January and April and includes five tournaments: The Silver Cup (20 goal) 15 January – 1 February; The Gold Cup (20 goal) 5 – 22 February; The Dubai Challenge Cup (8-10 goal) 1 – 9 March; The Polo Masters Cup (6-8 goal) 1 – 5 April and The Dubai Cup (6-8 goal) 14 – 19 April.
This year The Silver Cup celebrated its 15th anniversary and saw five teams (Bangash, Habtoor Polo,
UAE Polo, Dubai Wolves and Ghantoot Polo) competing for a place in the Final.
Finals Day kicked off with the Subsidiary Final between Habtoor Polo and Ghantoot Polo. Habtoor Polo’s Bautista Bayugar struck early but Ghantoot Polo, driven by Alfredo Ferrari, fought back with Santiago Araya securing their first goal, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive match. Despite Habtoor’s relentless offensive push, Ghantoot held firm, with Ferrari leading a decisive charge in the later chukkas to clinch a 9-7 victory.
The anticipated Final between UAE Polo and Dubai Wolves was a battle of skill and determination between the two evenly matched
teams – UAE Polo were looking to build upon their 2024 runners-up position and Dubai Wolves were seeking their first ever Silver Cup title.
UAE Polo started strong, with Lukin Monteverde opening the scoring and setting the pace for his team. Their disciplined defence kept Dubai Wolves contained early on, but the Wolves gradually found their rhythm, equalising just before half-time.
As the match intensified, UAE Polo pushed forward to regain control, but Dubai Wolves stayed in contention, responding with well-executed plays. Felix Esain’s crucial fourth chukka equaliser set the stage for a tense conclusion and in the final moments, Benjamin Panelo’s decisive goal secured Dubai Wolves’ first-ever Silver Cup title, marking a milestone victory for the team.
Black Bears Polo – The New Year Trophy Final –Saturday 8 February
Number of teams: Four
Winners: Red Star
Points: 30
Black Bear’s Lisa Hughes reports: “With an undeniably quiet winter here in the UK in terms of arena polo, spirits were gratefully lifted at the prospect of an arena tournament at Black Bears!
“Nerves were on edge as the temperatures unexpectedly plummeted the night before the Semi Finals. With an hour to go there was still a frozen patch that the sun had not got round to thawing, however heroic efforts by the Black Bears team
meant that it was put right with minutes to spare. Guy Schwarzenbach substituted for Eduardo Greghi whose Kusnacht Practice team was determined to beat Red Star, who had the Victor Ludorum title firmly in their sights. It was a close fought game, but in the event Red Star took the win – albeit by only 2 goals. In the other Semi Final, Oriflamme also showed the benefit of a full season playing together and with 2 goals by patron Benn Shepherd in the last chukka, they were able to secure their place in the Final by beating Senzaltro 10-7.
“The Final was a closely fought game. Red Star may already have had the Victor Ludorum title in the bag, but they were definitely going all out to win the tournament! Four goals down at the start of the third, Oriflamme were grateful for a mighty
performance by Jack Hyde to put them back into contention. With 14 goals apiece going into the last, it was all to play for. A strong chukka by Mikey Henderson, ably backed up by Ricky Cooper and Matias Amaya, edged them the win by 19-17. Amaya was subsequently awarded Most Valuable Player.
“The Subsidiary Final was also played in excellent spirits. With Guy not available to substitute for Eduardo Greghi, Jess van der Velden and Matt Perry made up the Kusnacht team, and Senzaltro stuck with their original line-up. Having got in front during the first chukka, Senzaltro were able to maintain their lead despite a doughty performance by Kusnacht and came out the winners 14-11.
“This tournament brought the winter season to an end at Black Bears and we are now regrouping and preparing for a tremendously busy summer season”.
The New Year Trophy Final Teams: Red Star (15): Ricky Cooper (1), Mikey Henderson (7) & Matias Amaya (7) Oriflamme (14): Benn Shepherd (1), Jason Warren (5) & Jack Hyde (8)
Beaufort Polo Club – The Blackhound Sport 6 Goal Final – Sunday 19 January
Number of teams: Four Winners: Senzaltro Points: 30
Sunday 19 January was a cold but busy day at Beaufort Polo Club which saw both the Final of
The Blackhound Sport 6 Goal as well as a Pony Club Training Tournament where 13 children schooled their ponies and honed their skills. Congratulations to Senzaltro, who beat Dutch Courage in the VL Final.
The Blackhound Sport 6 Goal Final Teams:
Senzaltro (6): Jules Van Vegchel (1), Ocean Williams (0) & Grant Collet (5)
Dutch Courage (5): Zac Oglivie Thompson (0), Angus Smail (0) & Hector Worsley (5)
Emsworth Polo Grounds – The Emsworth Super League Final – Sunday 2 February
Number of teams: Three
Winners: Hedonism Points: 30
The 6 goal Emsworth Super League Final rounded off a busy day of polo at the Club on Sunday 2 February. Hedonism secured themselves a 17-11 win against La Mariposa.
The Emsworth Super League Final Teams: Hedonism (6): Roy Prisk (3), Nick van Oppen (2) & Evgeny Chichvarkin (1)
La Mariposa (6): Mariano Darritchon (4), Guy Hume (0) & Denis Antonov (2)
On Sunday 19 January, AM Polo narrowly beat Abu Dhabi Polo 8-7 in a thrilling Final for The UAE Polo Federation Cup. The tournament was the biggest it has ever been with nine teams entered this year.
Ticket sales for the Beaufort International are now live – you can get your tickets via the Club’s website (www.beaufortpoloclub.com), but be quick as the Picnic Spots and Field Side Gazebo tickets are selling out fast!
The International will be held on Saturday 14 June, with a day of international polo alongside family-friendly entertainment and shopping.
The Club’s Charity Quiz was held on Friday 7 February in aid of Quest RDA. Team Martini won the quiz and £4,000 was raised. The funds will go towards the Charity continuing their important therapeutic equestrian programmes for children and adults living with disabilities.
3 Graces led from start to finish to win The Metropolitan Cup 6 goal Final on Monday 10 February. 3 Graces beat Victory Polo 7-4 in the Final with Artemio Figueras securing Most Valuable Player and Mas Dalessandro, played by Marcos Bignoli, was the Best Playing Pony.
The Metropolitan Cup 6 goal Final Teams: 3 Graces (6): Rebecca Cohen (-1), Artemio Figueras (2), Justin Daniels (2) & Juan Bollini (3) Victory Polo (6): Kevin Schmeits (0), Bruce Gottwald (-1), Segundo Caimi (4) & Marcos Bignoli (3)
Back to back title for Hine & Tarazona
“This is what we’ve been preparing for, for a year… it wasn’t easy at all”
Where: National Polo Center – Wellington, Florida 9 FEB FINAL 28 JAN
“You’ve won it before, so should we win it again?”
Milly Hine
The 2025 U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship Final saw defending champions Buena Vibra face off against La Fe Eastern Hay. Buena Vibra fielded a different lineup from the previous year, featuring two teenagers as 15-year-old Giuliana Tarazona joined her 14-year-old sister Valentina, resulting in an average team age of just 18. Anchoring the team at Number 4 was last year’s Captain, Milly Hine, supported by 9 goaler Cande Fernandez-Araujo, who made her debut appearance in The U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship Final.
Despite a slow start, Buena Vibra faced a 7-5 deficit at halftime as Arellano dominated the scoreboard during the first three chukkas. Behind the scenes, Buena Vibra benefitted from strong support, including Hine’s brothers, Ned and Louis, and her father, Andrew Hine pitchside.
They were joined by Agustin ‘Tincho’ Merlos, Mariano Gonzalez Sr., Lucas Criado Sr. and Fernandez-Araujo’s father, former 10 goaler Milo Fernandez-Araujo, who offered advice over the phone from Argentina.
Acknowledging the pressure of defending their title, Hine admitted, “We were super nervous.” Reflecting on the challenge, she added, Winning last year was obviously incredible, one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Having to defend the title, it’s not like anyone puts pressure on you, but you want to feel a little bit of pressure. You’ve won it before, so should we win it again?”
Arellano struck once more in the fourth chukka, but Buena Vibra responded with a resurgent offensive effort, levelling the score at 8-8 by the end of the chukka. Seizing the lead for the first time in the fifth, penalties played a crucial role in the decisive sixth chukka. Arellano narrowed the gap to 10-9 with a penalty conversion but missed two other opportunities. Hine capitalised on her
chances, converting her fifth penalty of the match and scoring two field goals to secure the win. At the final whistle, Buena Vibra celebrated in style with their signature pink smoke. For Valentina Tarazona, the victory was especially meaningful. Having become the youngest champion at 13-years-old in 2024, winning alongside her sister added emotional significance. “This is what we’ve been preparing for, for a year,” she said. “And with Giugiu, my sister –it’s amazing. Hope [Arellano] is one of the most difficult players to ever play against. It’s one of the toughest teams. It was not easy at all.”
A prize pool of $25,000 was up for grabs in the final, with champions Buena Vibra receiving $17,000, while runners-up La Fe Eastern Hay were awarded $8,000. In collaboration with USPA Global Licensing, both teams also chose a charity from a list of 10 non-profits to receive a $2,500 donation. Buena Vibra selected Polo Pony Rescue, while La Fe Eastern Hay chose the Retired Racehorse Project.
&
& 25th
7th & 8th June
& 15th June
& 22nd June
& 29th June
& 6th July
12th & 13th July
& 20th
All of our students and most horse hirers now utilise the Play Polo app to schedule and make sure that they are on time for chukkas.
Held over three days this year, instead of the usual four, a very successful tournament at Rugby Polo Club went down a storm with our student Members. Two arenas played host to 126 teams of three, although plenty more players had the opportunity to half seat to make up numbers and share chukkas.
We have been very conscious of costs this year; our entry fees and membership have been raised by £5, the cost of hotels and food has probably gone up and so it probably hurt pockets more than in previous years.
To add extra value for our students and in conjunction with Rugby Polo Club, Philip Baker ran a series of free classes during the weekend. These included rules and tactics sessions as well as basic schooling, which had a practical element as well. The classes were very well received and we plan to expand on this for the University Summer Nationals in June.
Tournament sponsors, Jamworks were on site and our players were directed to tag in @JamworksApp on their stories and posts to be in with a chance to win the set of bespoke Black Hound team shirts worth up to £250.
As part of our drive to increase sustainability and efficiency, we tend to use technology rather than paper, to help with the running of the tournament. So, timekeepers, marshals and organiser all work from laptops or iPads to make the whole thing run smoothly.
We also have colour coding for all teams and horse hirers which helps us manage the best use of our hardest workers, the horses.
After some hard-fought rounds, the tournament finished on time with winners of
the Upper Intermediates, Mane Attraction, receiving The Betz Trophy for the winners in the highest placed Division.
Thanks to everyone involved especially Luke Sandys-Renton and Caroline Grayson for all their organisation. Also, Thom Bell and Philip Baker for practical help during the running of the tournament.
* Polo Times proudly supports SUPA and provided winners with copies of Polo Times as part of their prizes
Beginner 1 (Quatro Amigos Trophy)
1st – RAU Filly’s
2nd – RAU Studs
3rd – USTA Scots wha Neigh
Beginner 4
1st – RVC Beginner 4
2nd – Warwick B4 3rd – Cardiff Cavaliers
Novice 1
1st – Oxford N1
2nd – Manchester Mavericks
3rd – NCL The Polo Bears
Beginner 2
1st – York
2nd – Exeter TopCat
3rd – Durham Dynamos
Lower Beginner Combined
1st – FearLeics Brum
2nd – Lboro/Cardiff 3rd – Nott so Western
Novice 2
1st – Get Your Brum Out The Saddle
2nd – Harper Hold My Beer 3rd – Surrey Stags
Beginner 3
1st – Exeter Burijto
2nd – Warwick B3
3rd – Notts B3
Upper Beginner Combined
1st – The Mane Event
2nd – Winchester/UWE Dino-Scores 3rd – Stirdrews
Novice 3
1st – Warwick Novice 3
2nd – Surrey Sharks
3rd – Surrey Hangover Queens
Novice 4
1st – Brookes N4
2nd – Imperial
3rd – USTA Girls just wanna ride OFF
Median
1st – Winch Dill With It
2nd – Brookes M1
3rd – Imperial Kensington Cavaliers
Lower Novice Combined
1st – Glynn’s Silly Fillies
2nd – Fifty Shades of Neigh
3rd – Cardiff/Bath Spa
Intermediate 1 (Betz Trophy)
1st – Mane Attraction
2nd – Oxford Upper Intermediates
3rd – Exeter Valentina
Upper Novice Combined
1st – Winch/Bournemouth Rein It In
2nd – Cowboy Casanovas
3rd – FearLeics Lboro
Intermediate 2 1st – Exeter Sonrisa
2nd – Lboro SHL
3rd – Manchester Mustangs
How do you keep 78, under-13 polo players happy? Easy – throw in some surprise blue skies, a pizza oven, and a whole lot of polo ponies! The SUPA Junior Schools Arena National Championships delivered all that and more, making for another unforgettable day.
With 26 teams representing over 20 schools, the competition was fierce, but the enthusiasm was even better! New faces joined seasoned players, and the Clubhouse deck at Oxford Polo was buzzing with supportive parents cheering on not just their own kids, but every player in the arena.
A big shoutout to umpire Mark Holmes, who kept things fair, fun, and educational, helping players level up their skills while keeping the matches flowing.
The SUPA volunteer crew (Caroline Grayson, myself, Luke Sanys-Renton and Nigel Mercer) were delighted, parents and School Managers were full of praise, with one parent commenting, “I can only imagine the hard work that went into this, and I’m so grateful to you all for making it such a brilliant event – not just for the kids, but for us parents too. Thank you!”
The Junior Schools Arena National Championship Results:
Beginner Jaguars
1st – Bruern Beginners
2nd – Papplewick Phoenix
3rd – Sandroyd Tigers
4th – Hall Grove Minis
Beginner Panthers
1st – Sandroyd Lions
2nd – Felsted Prep
3rd – Cothill
4th – Dragon Kestrels
5th – Heathfield Emeralds
6th – Bruern Blues
Midi’s
1st – Bryanston Prep
2nd – SUPA DUPA
Novice Tigers
1st – Reddam House
2nd – Dragon Falcons
3rd – Papplewick Pegasus
4th – Seaford Prep
Novice Lions
1st – Bruern Novice
2nd – Herts Polo Academy Novice
3rd – Hall Grove
4th – St George’s Weybridge
Intermediate
1st – Herts Polo Academy Inters
2nd – Luckley House
3rd – Amport/Warwick
4th – SUPA Stars
5th – Farleigh School
6th – Dragon Eagles
Every competitor went home with a SUPA beanie (because let’s be real, arena polo can get chilly!) and the latest edition of Polo Times. Intermediate Division champions, Hertfordshire Polo Academy, also received sponsored hoodies from Black Hound Sports.
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Simon Ledger reports
A British Army Team were most fortunate to escape the dull cold and wet weather to be coached for two days and then play a match against the Garde Royale at the Polo Grounds in Rabat, Morocco.
Due to the connection between the Garde Royale – King Hassan’s Personal Guard – the British Army team were all from the Household Cavalry Regiment (HCR).
There were two days of coaching and chukkas then ponies were chosen in the most wonderful setting of The King’s grounds which was on a par with Guards Polo Club. HOOK Polo shirts and gilets were presented
to our hosts after the two days of chukkas and coaching.
The ground played exceptionally well and nothing was too much trouble for our hosts. There were several diplomatic events and one of these was hosted by the British Ambassador, HE Simon Martin, with 50 or so guests. Speeches were made and I spoke regarding the history of polo and outlined the importance of the game as Churchill described “A polo handicap is a passport to the world’
The match on Saturday 9 February, was played in warm sunshine in front of a crowd of some 650, with Moroccan TV covering the match and many journalists present. The match was played off the stick and as the Army are used to, some ponies were of a fiery nature. This meant a slow start but after a fine run by Jamie Thomas and much relief,
he scored. However, the Garde Royale team – their Captain was a Moroccan polo team member – the pressure told and three quick goals by half-time meant the HCR had a hill to climb. This they did with some fine runs by Jonty Barlow, who despite a nasty moment with a broken stirrup leather scored after a brave run. Mathew Woodward and George Lane-Fox worked very hard riding off but going into the final period it was 6-2 to the hosts. Some bad luck by Jamie Thomas saw him miss three goals by a whisker, but after a fine pitch length run reduced the deficit to 6-3 at the chukka’s end.
Morocco is without doubt a wonderful venue for polo, smart, welcoming and skilled they were excellent hosts.
The Garde Royale Polo Team (3): Moulay Abdeslame El Hanafi (1), Aziz Outaleb (0), El Hassan Ahlimi (0) & Sidi Mohammed El Mahdi (2) Team Captain) Household Cavalry Regiment (1): Lt Col Mathew Woodward RHG/D (-1) and Commanding Officer of the Household Cavalry Regiment, Capt George Lane-Fox (-1) RHG/D, Capt Jamie Thomas (2) RHG/D (Team Captain) & Lt Jonty Barlow (1) RHG/D
Height: 15.1hh
Age: Nine-years-old
Colour: Bay
Sex: Mare
Owned and played by: Owned by Adolfo Cambiaso, played by Chris Mackenzie
Tournament: The 40th Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz Final
Where is she from/breeding? She was bred by La Dolfina S.A, her dam is Dolfina Liana and her sire is Dolfina Guitarrero (Dolfina Cuartetera x Durazno).
How long have you had her? Since birth!
What are her strengths? She is really handy and powerful.
How has she gone this season? Very well. She really adapted to the snow in St. Moritz.
Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? No, this is her first.
What are your plans for her in the future? At the moment the plan is for her to play the high goal season in the UK this year.
Does she have any special quirks? She likes to be the boss.
Describe her in three words? Pretty, sweet, powerful.
Understanding what it takes to overcome fear and self-doubt has been at the root of Paul ‘Stalkie’ Stalker’s personal transformation. He has proven experience of working with Polo Teams, Patrons and individual players for the past 3 years achieving outstanding results. With individual clients, Stalkie’s aim is to untap, nurture and focus their passion and potential on becoming the best versions of themselves in all aspects of their lives, whatever their starting point
In polo, as in life, success belongs to those who commit fully. It is a sport that demands not just skill but an unwavering dedication to improvement, teamwork, and strategy. The difference between a good player and a great one often comes down to the level of commitment they bring – not just during matches, but in every aspect of their preparation and mindset.
The Power of Total Commitment
Total commitment in polo means going beyond simply showing up for games. It is about immersing yourself in every element of the sport – fitness, horsemanship, strategy
and mental preparation. When players dedicate themselves fully, they unlock new levels of performance, gaining an edge over those who treat polo as a pastime rather than a discipline.
1. Mastering the Horse-Rider Connection
A committed polo player understands that their relationship with their horse is the foundation of everything. The best players don’t just ride well – they think like a horse, anticipating its reactions, reading its energy, and developing a partnership based on trust.
This requires:
• Spending more time in the saddle outside of game day
• Understanding each horse’s personality and strengths
• Investing in proper conditioning and care for their string of ponies
When a player is fully committed, their horses respond in kind, creating a seamless partnership that leads to greater control, speed, and precision on the field.
2. Physical and Mental Conditioning Polo is one of the most physically demanding sports, requiring strength, endurance, and balance. A committed player trains off the field just as much as on it. Strength training, cardio fitness and flexibility exercises improve reaction time, reduce injury risk and enhance control in high-speed plays.
Beyond physical fitness, mental resilience is key. The pressure in polo – whether it is executing a perfect backshot under fire or reading the game as it evolves – demands a strong mind. A fully committed player hones their mental toughness through:
• Visualisation and focus training
• Learning to stay calm under pressure
• Reviewing past games to analyse strengths and weaknesses
3. Developing Tactical Intelligence
Commitment extends to the mental side of polo as well. The best players don’t just play instinctively, they understand the game at a strategic level. This means:
• Studying team formations and game tactics
• Learning how to read opponents and predict their moves
• Adjusting personal playstyle to different game situations
Great players know that commitment to strategy turns a good chukka into a dominant performance.
Polo is not an individual sport. A fully committed player focuses not just on their own improvement but on how they contribute to the team. Commitment to teamwork means:
• Communicating clearly with teammates on and off the field
• Understanding how to support team dynamics, whether leading the attack or defending
• Being adaptable and willing to sacrifice personal glory for the team’s success
The best polo players know that their success is tied to their team’s collective effort.
Total commitment isn’t just about what happens on the field – it extends into all aspects of life. A dedicated player lives and breathes polo, shaping their lifestyle to support their sport. This means making choices that align with their goals:
• Proper nutrition to fuel peak performance
• Rest and recovery to maintain longevity in the sport
• Building strong relationships within the polo community
Commitment to polo is a commitment to a way of life – one that demands discipline, focus and passion.
While skill, teamwork and physical conditioning are often discussed, the real benefit of total commitment goes beyond these tangible elements. It creates a deep, internal sense of purpose. When a player fully dedicates themselves to polo, the sport becomes more than just a game – it becomes a reflection of their values, work ethic, and personal integrity
This insight was made crystal clear in a one-on-one interview with Tommy Beresford, England’s player and an 8 goal professional. Tommy’s level of commitment has been absolute – he didn’t have a Plan B. Everything he has achieved in the game has come from a single-minded focus on being the best. This level of dedication is what separates players who merely participate from those who dominate.
I’ve also had the privilege of working one-on-one with Hilario Ulloa, the 10 goal Argentine player, whose rise in the sport is a testament to total and utter commitment Hilario’s journey has been one of relentless discipline, sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in his ability to push himself beyond limits. His success is no accident – it’s the direct result of years of dedication to mastering every aspect of the game.
Commitment isn’t just about winning. It’s about the journey, the daily discipline, and the self-respect that comes from knowing you gave it everything you had. Those who embrace total commitment develop a confidence and resilience that translates far beyond the field – into business, relationships and every aspect of life.
The unspoken benefit of genuine commitment is this: it transforms not just how you play, but who you become
Players who embrace total commitment don’t just improve their polo skills – they elevate their entire experience of the sport. They build stronger bonds with their horses, become more valuable teammates, and experience the deeper satisfaction that comes from giving their all.
Polo is not a sport for the half-hearted. It rewards those who go all in, who dedicate themselves fully to improvement, and who recognize that every moment – on or off the field – is an opportunity to grow. Those who commit completely will find themselves not only playing better but enjoying the game on an entirely new level.
In the end, total commitment is what separates the good from the great. Which side of the line do you want to stand on?
IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO GIVE YOUR HORSES A PRE-SEASON BOOST!
PADDOCK POWER ORIGINAL
Horses at grass or in training thrive on PADDOCK P OWER ORIGINAL lick with added protein and a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals.
This is no ordinary lick it’s a balancer in a bucket!
Help your horse fight mudfever and rain scold by supporting its immune system throughout the winter with Paddock Power Original.
The di erence in my ponies since they wintered on Paddock Power is extremely noticeable. I find when they come into work it’s almost as though they have already done two weeks of pre-training.Their top line and major muscle groups are very good. It’s proving to give the horses more stamina, a quicker recovery rate and with the added Biotin their feet are withstanding the rigours of the winter season
ALL PADDOCK POWER Products contain BIOTIN @ 150mg per kg
PADDOCK POWER ORIGINAL
Horses at grass or in training thrive on PADDOCK POWER ORIGINAL lick with added protein and a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals
This is no ordinary lick it’s a balancer in a bucket!
Help boost your horses conditioon and wellbeing by feeding Paddock Power
Horses at grass or in training thrive on PADDOCK POWER ORIGINAL lick with added protein and a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals. This is no ordinary lick it’s a balancer in a bucket! Help boost your horses condition and wellbeing by feeding Paddock Power.
ALL PADDOCK POWER Products contain BIOTIN @ 150mg per kg
This equates to 22.5mg per day on an average daily rate of 150g.
“It has been a diffi cult winter but Paddock Power has helped us to ensure that all our ponies – brood mares, youngstock and retired ponies as well as playing ponies on their winter break –have really thrived. Providing a balancer in a bucket means that they can self-select and always get the vitamins and minerals
Kat Seeman from Berkshire is the owner and Founder of Southern Equine Sheath Cleaning. With 35 years of experience in riding, owning, and working with horses, Kat established Southern Equine Sheath Cleaning Ltd. (SESC) in 2017 after identifying a niche in the market
I know its hard to image, but with the impending spring/summer on the horizon, we will soon be dealing with the flies. Let’s talk about the difficulties our horses face and how we can reduce this. Here at Southern Equine Sheath Cleaning we deal with a multitude of issues that the summer brings our horses, both mares, geldings and stallions.
Fly strike, also known as myiasis, is a parasitic infestation of the body of a live animal by fly larvae (maggots) that grow inside the host while feeding on its tissue. This condition can occur in horses and is typically caused by flies that are attracted to the dark, smelly and often damp environment. It only takes one fly to enter the horse’s sheath, lay their eggs and within eight to 24 hours, the horse will
experience some discomfort as the larvae/ maggots develop.
Flies that commonly cause fly strike in horses include stable flies, black flies and biting midges (Culicoides species). These flies can cause small, hard, round bumps and raised, reddened areas with central bloody crusts that itch.
Swollen sheaths in horses can be caused by various factors, including fly bites. Flies such as stable flies, black flies, and biting midges are known to cause irritation and swelling in horses. When these flies bite the sheath area, it can lead to localized swelling, reactions and discomfort. You may also notice tiny blood splats on the external part of the sheath and in and around the inside legs and groin area.
Fly strike can be a hidden issue until the larvae hatch and start moving and feeding on the contaminated layer inside the sheath. Here are some symptoms to watch for:
• Agitation: Your horse may become noticeably agitated, biting or kicking at his sheath.
• Colic-like Symptoms: Some horses may exhibit symptoms similar to colic.
• Behavioural Changes: The onset of these behaviours can be sudden and unexpected, depending on how mature the maggots are.
Swollen sheaths are more visually apparent and can be accompanied by:
• Discomfort and Agitation: Your horse may show signs of discomfort and agitation.
• Heat: The surface area may feel hot to the touch.
• Sensitivity: Your horse may dislike you touching the area.
• Itching: Some horses may excessively itch their sheath.
What to Do
By following these steps, you can help keep your horse comfortable and healthy:
• Routine Sheath Cleaning: Clean your horse’s sheath once or twice a year.
If your horse gets particularly dirty, thoroughly clean it during the summer months.
• Apply Protective Barrier Balms: Applying protective barrier balms to areas affected by flies, such as the sheath or mare teats. It will create a barrier that prevents flies from landing on the sheath’s surface or mare’s teats, reducing the likelihood of bites, swelling, and fly
strike. Our Southern Equine Sheath Barrier Balm is available on Amazon and is packed with natural ingredients that repel flies and provides soothing relief.
Web: www.sheathcleaning.co.uk
Tel: 07401747272
Email: katherine@sheathcleaning.co.uk
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Secure 4 acre grass paddocks – bring your favourite polo pony(ies)
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15 miles – St.David’s, 57 miles – Aberystwyth, 113 miles – Cardi For all enquiries please text or call: 07889 916777 (Polo enthusiasts)
Bringing horses back into work can be straight forward if the horses have wintered well, but I do get asked questions about those horses that don’t quite fit into the ‘norm’ and need a slightly different approach when coming into work. The ‘blanket feeding’ and ‘one size fits all’ method isn’t always appropriate for every horse.
I thought I would cover some of those questions I get asked regularly at this time of year to assist in bringing horses back into work for the season ahead, with their workload increasing quickly and when nutrition will help to support muscle development, fitness and condition.
Q: Help! I have two horses that have come in from the field with huge bellies. They look so fat – is it fat?
A: A great question, as I often talk about Body Condition Scoring at this time of year as I don’t want people mistaking a large ‘grass belly’ as actual body fat. Are the ribs
visible or easily felt? Have they got top line? Are they individuals with big deep girths and wide sprung ribs cages? Conformation really does come into this, and so often I find those with the deep girth and wide sprung ribs are the ones thought to be fat, when they are not – it is their structural shape!
Fat is found as: a solid cresty neck, fat deposits behind the shoulder, fatty deposits over the TOP of the rib cage and over the tail head. Do a hands-on Body Condition Score to feel where those fat pads are. Standing back and looking at them from a distance doesn’t give you the true answer.
So, fear not, the ‘big belly’ will go once some core muscles are engaged again, top line muscle is built back up and a nice soft, good quality forage is fed.
Q: When do I start feeding my horses when they come in from their holiday?
A: In the ideal world, feeding the horses in the field before they come back in off their
holidays allows them time to adjust to having concentrates in their diet as well as receiving those all-important vitamins and minerals. This is preferable to them coming in from the field and being given a conditioning feed (remembering calories and energy are the same thing!) twice per day and they consequently have too much energy.
If you are unable to feed them in the field, it would be worth giving them a couple of days in the stable to settle, offering very small amounts of concentrates and increasing them GRADUALLY to allow the digestive tract time to adjust to the change in feed. This is far better than feeding two scoops of Conditioning Mix twice a day from day one as they are needing condition as this method is asking for trouble by increasing the risk of colic and tying up, in particular. For a low energy but nutrient dense option I would use a balancer, such as Performance Balancer, with lots of digestible fibre to provide calories – such as an alfalfa or beet pulp, Alfalfa with Oil or Fibre-Beet. Alternatively, you could begin with a High Fibre Horse & Pony Cube, or a Conditioning Cube.
Q: Is it true that the risk of colic is increased by seven times when the diet is changed quickly?
A: Yes, absolutely the risks of colic are increased significantly if the concentrate diet is changed in less than 14 days and changing forage sources rapidly can increase the risk of colic up to 30 times. The changes we are making for polo ponies is literally overnight for many, hence why we always talk about gradual introductions and changes of forages and concentrates to allow the digestive tract time to adjust.
So, for those horses that are susceptible to colic at this stage, I would encourage you to make a concerted effort to make changes gradual, over 10 to 14 days being ideal. With the introduction of forage, if you can use some of the forage they have had in the field and mix it with the new forage in the stable – perfect, if not, then do go for a soft leafy forage (as opposed to coarse and stalky), or haylage that’s not too wet. Allow them absolute AD LIB forage as they would have done in the field, introduce the concentrate feed very slowly and really focus on low starch but high fibre and high oil feeds if calories are required.
Finally, to really help with maintaining a stable gut flora in the hind gut I would definitely use a pre/probiotic supplement, which very often helps to reduce the incidence of colic during this time when the digestive tract is adapting to the new feeding regime.
Q: Do we start feeding our horses the same feed as we would once they are playing?
A: No, really it is not necessary to do this, you can use the same feed type, such as a Conditioning Cube for instance, BUT they would need a much smaller amount. Generally, I would be anticipating 1½ to 2 round bowl Stubbs scoops per day for the beginning of work and as their workload increases the amount of cubes would be increased to support the work being asked of them and to maintain their condition.
Q: I have a horse that has not wintered well, she is light and ribby – should I start with four small meals or just stick to two big ones? I have also heard muscle supplements are good for helping to put on muscle, should I use this now as well?
A: Absolutely, sticking with four small feeds to increase condition is going to produce much better results than two large feeds. Unlike us humans, the horse has a stomach and digestive tract which functions much more
effectively when it imitates trickle feeding rather than large, infrequent meals. The absorption of nutrients is increased and therefore calories will be utilised a lot more effectively and your horse will reap the benefits.
An example diet for her would be…
2 heaped Stubbs scoops of Ease & Excel Cubes per day
2 scoops of soaked Fibre-Beet or Alfalfa with Oil per day
2 measuring mugs of Outshine per day
Pre/probiotic supplementation
SPLIT OVER FOUR FEEDS with AD LIB hay/haylage
It is really important to get her teeth checked and make sure she is on a good worming programme – otherwise the feed you are investing in will be pretty much wasted!
A muscle supplement really should not be needed as, when providing a balanced diet of good quality forage and concentrates, all those essential amino acids required for muscle development will be provided –remember more is not always better!
Q: Are pre and probiotics beneficial in their diet?
A: In my experience, introducing pre and probiotics into their diet as soon as they come in from the fields is of great benefit, even if you don’t start feeding hard feed straight away, I would encourage the pre/ probiotics start immediately in some damp chaff or beet pulp.
Quite often when the horses come back in from their holidays, their droppings will be loose because of the change of environment, being split up from herd mates, a change in routine, from grass and supplemented hay/ haylage to a different type of hay/haylage
at the stable. These can all cause digestive upsets and loose droppings so pre/probiotics will help to stabilise hind gut bacteria and reduce or stop the loose droppings.
Some yards I work with keep certain individuals on a pre/probiotic supplement throughout the season, generally those ones that drop their weight and become tucked up and hollow in the flanks – it does them no harm at all by helping to support a healthy gut biome, utilising the diet efficiently.
Q: When the horses come back into work should I feed smaller quantities of hay/haylage?
A: In the ideal world I would keep them being fed ad lib hay/haylage (forage). At the beginning you will probably find they are more settled having forage to continuously eat, and the majority of them will then begin to self-regulate – they will graze at their forage rather than eat it in one sitting as they do when restricted.
As they have been grazing all winter on grass or hay/haylage, it is again another shock to their system to come into a stable and have a restricted fibre intake, as I have mentioned in the answer above, the risk of colic is again increased significantly.
Once they begin playing chukkas you may want to monitor the amount the ‘gooddoers’ are receiving if you are worried they are developing fat pads – so give them forage little and often in small holed haylage, nets as this will work really well and not increase the risk of gastric ulcers.
Just a few pointers to help you through the next couple of weeks, which I hope are useful to you all. Good Luck and hopefully see you soon!
Dr.med. Andreas Krüger is a Swiss board orthopaedic and trauma surgeon in Zurich, who specialises in knee and shoulder surgery. Andi is a second generation of tournament doctors for equine sports, known as Polodoc since 2013
The Silent Edge in Competitive Polo
Polo is not just a sport – it is a relentless battle of endurance, strength, and mental agility, played at breakneck speeds on one of the world’s most physically demanding playing fields. Unlike traditional team sports, Polo requires full-body coordination, precise reaction times, cardiovascular endurance, and muscular resilience – all while handling a 500kg galloping horse and executing tactical plays.
While skill and training are non-negotiable, one crucial yet often overlooked factor determines a player’s longevity and success: nutrition. Many players use some easy-to-get supplements but more precise, personalised nutrition and supplementation based on individual biomarkers are still rarely used.
Problems Inside
Why generic nutrition is not enough in high-performance polo
Many polo players assume that a wellbalanced diet is enough to sustain their general performance. While healthy eating is essential, it often lacks the precision needed for optimal muscle function, recovery, and injury prevention. Standard diets don’t account for individual needs – every athlete has different metabolic requirements, absorption rates, and deficiencies. Also, nutrient depletion is accelerated under extreme conditions – polo matches cause rapid losses of electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. Injuries and fatigue demand targeted fill-up; without tailored supplementation, recovery is slower, increasing the risk of chronic injuries. This is where personalised supplementation, based on precise blood diagnostics, becomes a gamechanger.
What polo players need
Polo combines aerobic endurance, explosive anaerobic movements, and high cognitive demands, making its nutritional requirements unique. Here are the essential nutrients that every serious polo player must prioritise:
• Electrolytes & Hydration Balance
Why it matters: Polo matches are long, intense, and often played in high temperatures, leading to dehydration and
electrolyte imbalances that impair muscle function and reaction speed.
Critical nutrients: Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium
Benefit: Prevents cramps, supports neuromuscular coordination, and maintains hydration.
• Iron & Oxygen Transport
Why it matters: Insufficient iron reduces red blood cell production, leading to fatigue, dizziness, and slower recovery times.
Who is at risk? Athletes training at high intensities, female players, and those with iron malabsorption.
Benefit: Boosts endurance by improving oxygen transport to muscles.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids & Brain Function
Why it matters: Omega-3s are crucial for brain function, reducing inflammation, and joint mobility – all vital in a highimpact sport like polo.
Benefit: Faster reaction times, reduced muscle soreness, and lower risk of joint degeneration.
• Vitamin D & Bone Strength
Why it matters: Polo players put extreme stress on their bones, joints, and ligaments. Vitamin D deficiency leads to increased fracture risks.
Benefit: Strengthens bones, improves muscle function, and enhances immune support.
• B Vitamins & Energy Metabolism
Why it matters: B vitamins (B12, B6, Folate) are critical for energy production, nerve function, and red blood cell formation.
Benefit: Optimises energy levels, improves concentration, and prevents fatigue.
• Amino Acids & Muscle Recovery
Why it matters: Polo involves explosive muscle contractions, which cause microtears in muscle fibers. Amino acids speed up muscle repair and prevent breakdown.
Key supplements: BCAAs (Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine), Glutamine.
Benefit: Reduces soreness, prevents muscle loss, and accelerates recovery.
Scientific Advisor at Indyvit AG (www.indyvit.com)
Three Key Nutrition Strategies for Polo Players Test, Don’t Guess
• Regular blood testing ensures targeted, effective supplementation, preventing deficiencies and overloads.
Hydration & Electrolyte Precision
• Water alone isn’t enough. Balance sodium, potassium and magnesium intake for sustained endurance.
Adapt Nutrition to Playing & Recovery Cycles
• Match day, training, and injury phases require different nutrient strategies. Optimise intake accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Performance is built on precision. Polo is a game of margins. The difference between sustained peak performance and fatigue, injury,
Personalised Supplementation
Why blood testing makes the difference Elite athletes no longer rely on guesswork when it comes to supplementation. Leading companies like indyvit.com offer personalised supplement programs based on real-time blood diagnostics, ensuring that each player
Blood diagnostics allows each player to receive exactly what they need
or burnout often comes down to nutrition. By shifting from generic supplementation to precision-based strategies, polo players can enhance endurance, sharpen reaction times, recover faster, and extend their careers. If elite performance is the goal, personalised nutrition is no longer optional – it is essential.
receives precisely what their body needs to perform at its best.
• How it Works:
• Comprehensive Blood Analysis: A sample is taken at home to measure 11 micronutrient and 16 fatty acid levels.
• Customised Supplement Formulation: Based on results, a tailor-made daily supplement regimen is created.
• Targeted Performance Enhancement: Players receive individualized supplements in optimized doses for maximum absorption and bioavailability.
• The Swiss made Lab Analysis and Switzerland Supplement production ensure the highest quality standards. This scientific approach ensures optimal performance, faster recovery, and long-term health benefits – without the risk of oversupplementation.
The role of nutrition in injury recovery
A serious injury can sideline a player for
months – but recovery isn’t just about rehab exercises. The biomechanical facts are pretty clear. New insight in biochemical research proved that targeted nutrition plays a critical role in tissue repair, inflammation control, and muscle regeneration.
– Key supplements for faster recovery: Collagen & Vitamin C: Supports ligament and tendon repair.
Zinc & Magnesium: Essential for wound healing and reducing muscle spasms. Turmeric & Omega-3s: Powerful natural antiinflammatories.
Protein & Amino Acids: Speeds up muscle regeneration and prevents atrophy. By incorporating these into a personalised supplementation plan, players can significantly shorten recovery times and return to peak performance faster.
For more information on Polodoc contact Andreas Krüger at drmedkrueger@gmail.com or www.polodoc.ch
The 40th Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz; 24 – 26 January; Engadin Valley, St. Moritz
The 40th Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz delivered all the elements of an unforgettable weekend – thrilling polo, breathtaking scenery and a dazzling social scene. From dramatic snowstorms to radiant sunshine, the event unfolded in spectacular fashion, complemented by free-flowing Perrier-Jouët Champagne, exquisite cuisine from Gamma Catering and of course, world-class snow polo on the iconic frozen lake.
If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of The Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz, make sure to mark your calendar for 2026 (30 January – 1 February) as this is a jaw-dropping weekend of glamour and polo which has to be seen to be believed.
The tournament’s mastermind and Founder Reto Gaudenzi, along with his hugely efficient team, successfully pulled off an exceptional 40th anniversary weekend and here’s to the next 40 years of snow polo in the birthplace of the alpine sport – St. Moritz!
NZ Polo Open 2025; Sunday 16 February; Auckland Polo Club, New Zealand
Over 4,000 spectators lined the sidelines at Auckland Polo Club as Swift Roofing secured victory over Brinks in a thrilling NZ Polo Open Final. Both teams delivered a fierce and fast-paced contest, with the rain holding off to allow for an exciting day of polo. Off the field, the Fashion Quarterly ‘Fashion at the Polo’ competition drew its largest number of entrants yet. Prizes were awarded for best dressed lady, best dressed gentleman, and best accessory. Guests and players alike enjoyed a day of sport, style and spirited competition in New Zealand. To read more from the Final, please turn to the Reports pages.
Photography by Norrie Montgomery
Durham University Polo Club Ball; Friday 31 January; Wynyard Hall, Billingham
After a two-year break, the Durham University Polo Ball returned to the beautiful Wynyard Hall. With over 200 guests from university polo clubs across the country – including Durham, Edinburgh, Exeter, Cambridge, Nottingham and UCL – the evening was a great success, raising nearly £2,000 through a charity raffle and auction.
Auction and raffle highlights included polo lessons with professionals Ed Morris and Harry Muddle, as well as merchandise from top polo brands. The funds raised will support Steppe and Hoof, the official charity of the Mongol Derby, which helps rural Mongolian herders and supports the welfare of their horses and other livestock.
by Expect Miracles Photography
Congratulations to Jacinto and Pilar Crotto on the arrival of their daughter Alba on Thursday 9 January
Congratulations to Tommy Beresford and Laura van Harpen on the birth of their daughter, Clara, on Tuesday 28 January!
CLUB PHONE EMAIL
All Ireland Polo Club 00353 01 6896732 dstone@indigo.ie
All Ireland Polo Club 00353 01 6896732 dstone@indigo.ie
All England Polo Club Hickstead* 01273 834 315 polo@hickstead.co.uk
All England Polo Club Hickstead* 01273 834 315 polo@hickstead.co.uk
Apsley End Polo Club* 01462 712444 tobiana.scott@gmail.com
Apsley End Polo Club* 01462 712444 tobiana.scott@gmail.com
Ash Farm Polo Club* 07799 812739 ashfarmpolo@hotmail.com
Ash Farm Polo Club* 07799 812739 ashfarmpolo@hotmail.com
Barfold Polo Club 07778 808853 mborwick@gmail.com
Barfold Polo Club 07778 808853 mborwick@gmail.com
Tell us yours at gossip@polotimes.co.uk
Bawtry Polo Club 01302 773282 info@bawtrypoloclub.co.uk
Bawtry Polo Club 01302 773282 info@bawtrypoloclub.co.uk
Home Farm Polo Grounds 07807672120 rachaelkearnet@hotmail.co.uk
Home Farm Polo Grounds 07807672120 rachaelkearnet@hotmail.co.uk
Hurtwood Polo Club 01483 272828 polo@hurtwoodparkpolo.co.uk
Hurtwood Polo Club 01483 272828 polo@hurtwoodparkpolo.co.uk
Kirtlington Park Polo Club 01869 350138 info@kirtlingtonparkpolo.co.uk
Kirtlington Park Polo Club 01869 350138 info@kirtlingtonparkpolo.co.uk
Knepp Castle Polo Club 07920 023639 info@aspectpolo.co.uk
Knepp Castle Polo Club 07920 023639 info@aspectpolo.co.uk
Leadenham Polo Club 07429 299026 office@leadenhampoloclub.com
Leadenham Polo Club 07429 299026 office@leadenhampoloclub.com
Longdole Polo Club* 01452 864544 info@longdolepolo.com
Anonymity guaranteed if you want it...
Beaufort Polo Club 01666 880510 enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk
Beverley Polo Club* 01964 544877 info@beverleypoloclub.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
Binfield Heath 01491 411969 bhpcmanager@gmail.com
Blueys Polo Club* 07930 323263 polomanager@blueyspolo.co.uk
Blueys Polo Club* 07930 323263 polomanager@blueyspolo.co.uk
Bramham Polo Academy 07811 993316 emmadvh@btinternet.com
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
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 Polo Club* 07711 217004 cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com
Cambridge County Polo Club* 01223 812922 info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk
Cambridge County Polo Club* 01223 812922 info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk
Carlton House 07901 561113 harrietservaes@hotmail.com
Longdole Polo Club* 01452 864544 info@longdolepolo.com Moor Farm Polo Club 07494 114190 shop@moorfarmshop.co.uk
Moor Farm Polo Club 07494 114190 shop@moorfarmshop.co.uk
Moor Hall Farm Polo Club* 01279 450637 alecbeve@btinternet.com
Moor Hall Farm Polo Club* 01279 450637 alecbeve@btinternet.com
New Forest Polo Club 07977 224404 annabelparryjoyner@yahoo.co.uk
New Forest Polo Club 07977 224404 annabelparryjoyner@yahoo.co.uk
Norfolk Polo Club 01508 480400 office@norfolkpolo.co.uk
15-year-old Chloe Hare, an aspiring professional polo player has launched Polo & Piste to help fund her polo journey by designing and selling luxury affordable, sustainable fashion for polo players and skiers. The Polo & Piste product motto is sustainable, reliably sourced, organic, recycled and designed in England.
Norfolk Polo Club 01508 480400 office@norfolkpolo.co.uk
Northern Ireland Polo Club 07803 020577 info@northernirelandpoloclub.co.uk
Northern Ireland Polo Club 07803 020577 info@northernirelandpoloclub.co.uk
Offchurch Bury Polo Club* 07816 830887 info@offchurchburypoloclub.co.uk
Offchurch Bury Polo Club* 07816 830887 info@offchurchburypoloclub.co.uk
Pangbourne Polo Club 07708 906810 aprice@polofix.com
Pangbourne Polo Club 07708 906810 aprice@polofix.com
Peover Polo Club 07766 016 833 polomanager@peoverpoloclub.co.uk
Peover Polo Club 07766 016 833 polomanager@peoverpoloclub.co.uk
Polo Wicklow* 00353 404 67164 siobhan@polowicklow.com
Polo Wicklow* 00353 404 67164 siobhan@polowicklow.com
RAF Cranwell 07739 569491 rafcranwellpoloclub@yahoo.co.uk
South Island Savile Cup 25/02/25 02/03/25
Cambridge Lanherne Tournament 01/03/25 02/03/25
Yaloak Yaloak Tournament Subzero, 0-2 & 4 01/03/25 01/03/25
Ellerston Ellerston Kerry Packer Cup 14 & 8 08/03/25 16/03/25
Killarney Killarney Autumn Subzero, 0, 4 & 8 08/03/25 09/03/25
Windsor Windsor Tournament Subzero, 0, 4 & 8
16/03/25 Hexham Dunkeld Cup
16/03/25 Garangula Garangula 14 & 8 Goal 14 & 8
Arunga Arunga Tournament Subzero, 0, 4 & 8 22/03/25 30/03/25
All Ireland Polo Club 00353 01 6896732 dstone@indigo.ie
All England Polo Club Hickstead* 01273 834 315 polo@hickstead.co.uk
Apsley End Polo Club* 01462 712444 tobiana.scott@gmail.com
Ash Farm Polo Club* 07799 812739 ashfarmpolo@hotmail.com
Barfold Polo Club 07778 808853 mborwick@gmail.com
Bawtry Polo Club 01302 773282 info@bawtrypoloclub.co.uk
Beaufort Polo Club 01666 880510 enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk
Beverley Polo Club* 01964 544877 info@beverleypoloclub.co.uk
Binfield Heath 01491 411969 bhpcmanager@gmail.com
Blueys Polo Club* 07930 323263 polomanager@blueyspolo.co.uk
Bramham Polo Academy 07811 993316 emmadvh@btinternet.com
Bunclody Polo Club 00353 87 6605917 info@poloclubbunclody.com
Burningfold Polo Club 01483 200722 derrek@burningfold.com
Cambridge Polo Club* 07711 217004 cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com
Cambridge County Polo Club* 01223 812922 info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk
Carlton House 07901 561113 harrietservaes@hotmail.com
Chester Racecourse Polo Club 01244 304602 amorris@chester-races.com
Cheshire Polo Club 01948 861020 info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk
Chiltern Polo Club 07973 174542 info@chilternpoloclub.com
Cirencester Park Polo Club 01285 653225 info@cirencesterpolo.co.uk
Cowdray Polo Club 01730 813257 enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk
Curraghmore Polo Club 00353 51 387102 mkennedy@cssgroup.ie
Dallas Burston Polo Club* 01926 811 111 enquiries@ixlevents.com
Dorset Polo Club 01202 623985 office@dorsetpolo.co.uk
Druids Lodge Polo Club* 01722 782597 abi@druidspolo.co.uk
Dundee and Perth Polo Club* 07831 365 194 jamesscrawford@aol.com
Eastwood Polo Club 07968 300063 frankums@googlemail.com
Edgeworth Polo Club 01285 821695 edgeworthpolo@gmail.com
Edinburgh Polo Club* 07971 072336 james.dgls@gmail.com
Emsworth Polo Grounds* 01344 883112 info@fourquarterspolo.co.uk
Epsom Polo Club* 07961 232106 epsompoloclub@hotmail.com
Fifield Polo Club* 01628 620061 fifieldpoloclub@live.co.uk
Great Trippetts Polo Club 01428 741916 charles@trippetts.com
Guards Polo Club* 01784 434212 polo@guardspoloclub.com
Ham Polo Club 020 8334 0000 office@hampoloclub.com
Hertfordshire Polo Club* 01707 256023 polo@hertspolo.co.uk
Home Farm Polo Grounds 07807672120 rachaelkearnet@hotmail.co.uk
Hurtwood Polo Club 01483 272828 polo@hurtwoodparkpolo.co.uk
Kirtlington Park Polo Club 01869 350138 info@kirtlingtonparkpolo.co.uk
Knepp Castle Polo Club 07920 023639 info@aspectpolo.co.uk
Leadenham Polo Club 07429 299026 office@leadenhampoloclub.com
Longdole Polo Club* 01452 864544 info@longdolepolo.com
Moor Farm Polo Club 07494 114190 shop@moorfarmshop.co.uk
Moor Hall Farm Polo Club* 01279 450637 alecbeve@btinternet.com
New Forest Polo Club 07977 224404 annabelparryjoyner@yahoo.co.uk
Norfolk Polo Club 01508 480400 office@norfolkpolo.co.uk
Northern Ireland Polo Club 07803 020577 info@northernirelandpoloclub.co.uk
Oakwood Park Polo Club 07778 436468 francis@fhmpolo.co.uk
Offchurch Bury Polo Club* 07816 830887 info@offchurchburypoloclub.co.uk
Pangbourne Polo Club 07708 906810 aprice@polofix.com
Peover Polo Club 07766 016 833 polomanager@peoverpoloclub.co.uk
Polo Wicklow* 00353 404 67164 siobhan@polowicklow.com
RAF Cranwell 07739 569491 rafcranwellpoloclub@yahoo.co.uk
Ranelagh Polo Club* 01344 885697 ranelagh@labravapolo.com
RCBPC* 01344 890060 polo@rcbpc.com
RMAS Polo Club 07973 174542 rmas-nc-aci-projinters@mod.uk
Rugby Polo Club* 01788 817724 info@rugbypoloclub.com
Rutland Polo Club 07772 040668 secretary@rutlandpoloclub.co.uk
Silver Leys Polo Club 07730 060200 silverleyspoloclub@gmail.com
St. Albans Polo Club 07956 017090 info@stalbanspoloclub.co.uk
Stewarton Polo Club 07974 706045 info@stewartonpolo.co.uk
Suffolk Polo Club 07990 576974 aes3@cam.ac.uk
Sussex Polo Club* 01342 714920 info@sussexpolo.co.uk
Taunton Vale Polo Club 07771 931541 Chairman_tcvpc@btinternet.com
Tedworth Park Polo Club* 01980 846705 info@tedworthparkpolo.com
Toulston Polo Club 07776 234638 info@toulstonpoloclub.com
Triskelion Polo Club* 07624 272547 polo@triskelionpolo.club
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
Also
Partitioned for 5/6 horses. Plated until July 2025 and new tyres. New spring loaded ramp fitted in 2023, new metal floor with rubber matting on top in 2023. Large luton area with five saddle racks and space for lots of polo kit. Battery isolator. £5,995 ono (Gloucester). Tel: 07860 906032
Polo Art
POLO & PIGSTICKING PAINTINGS,PRINTS,BOOKS KEY RING ETC TEL 01934 613996 www marlboroughbooksandprints.co.uk
Submit your classified adverts online www.polotimes.co.uk or contact 01452 730770
Paul Sweeney Memorial Final; Ash Farm Polo Club; Sunday 20 February
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.
HAND SANITISER Hand sanitiser supplied at 80% ABV to WHO Formula 1. Available in 100ml (from £2), 200ml (from £4) or 5 litre (from £45) sizes. Personalised labels available at extra cost. Discounts & free delivery for bulk purchases. Tel: 07969 456214
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
Ricky Cooper has played for the Wales Polo Team in over 75 matches including at The British Beach Polo Championships, All England Polo Club, Hickstead, The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships and Hurtwood Rock. This winter his Red Star Polo team has enjoyed successes in the 12 and 15 goal levels and at the time of going to print the team were leading the 15 goal and won the 12 goal Arena Victor Ludorum
1. What is your biggest passion and why? Providing opportunities for my children to experience all life has to offer. Travel, education, sport, the arts etc., they are experiencing it all and it’s great to be with them on the journey.
2. What is your all-time best polo memory? Being on the field as the Welsh National Anthem played in the Scottsdale sunshine, in November 2024 with the mountains behind us, 15,000 in attendance and with many great friends for our annual visit; we have been going sine 2012. Also, Wales winning by a single goal against Ireland at Horse Guards Parade in 2014 was an amazing memory.
3. Who were/are your favourite teammates? I have enjoyed many years with Pete Webb travelling home and away. The 12 and 15 goal arena teams for Red Star have been excellent with Mikey Henderson, Grant Collett and Matias Amaya.
4. Hardest opponent? I used to hate playing Mikey Henderson, so we signed him to play with us at Red Star! Recently I had to mark Guy Schwarzenbach, on absolute machines, in his arena… impossible!
5. Which sports do you like outside of polo? Any sport really but my main ones are marathon running, ice hockey, rugby and football.
6. Favourite film and why? At the time I loved Austin Powers, comedy genius.
7. Favourite album? The Notorious B.I.G. – Life After Death.
8. Favourite food/dish? Chicken Chilli Fry.
9. Favourite hobby outside of polo? Ice/ Inline hockey – I played over 100 games for Great Britain in many European and World Championships from Junior level to over 45s. This year we travel to Germany for The World Cup to play against the likes of Sweden, USA, Canada, Czech Republic, France, Germany. I also love the challenge of marathon running and have completed 18 to date.
10. Most prized possession? My trophy room with 100s of International shirts, trophies, medals from polo to hockey, running and boxing.
11. Favourite celebrity and why? I like Cristiano Ronaldo, his clean life, charitable heart and dedication to his sport and family.
12. Best holiday destination and activity? South Africa safari with the family – zip lining across the Zambezi and sundowners with the hippos.
13. Best pony and why? Queimarda (Burnt in English as she had flame coloured legs and a black body). I brought her from the Novaes family in Brazil and shipped her to England where we played in many great games for 14 years.
14. Are you passionately superstitious? When playing hockey (I am the goal tender) I tap the top on the crossbar, floor, right post and left post to put a cross. In polo we used to lose in a certain set of shirts but that changed and saved investing in a different colour!
15. Describe yourself in three words? Never sits still.
16. One thing which would surprise us about you? When I was younger, I joined the church choir who paid me to sing at weddings.
