Polo Times September 2024

THE POLO PLAYERS’ CHOICE BRITISH POLO GIN

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: Michael Berkeley, Diana Butler, Lorna Edgar, John Hankin, Dr.med. Andreas Krüger, Nicki Marshall, Peter Meade, India Parker-Smith, HW Photography, Tony Ramirez/ ©www.imagesofpolo.com,Tom Reynolds, Joss Ridley, Standing Rock, Paul Stalker

What’s inside… September 2024

Contact details

Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton, Glos, GL2 9LN Tel: 01452 730770

email:admin@polotimes.co.uk www.polotimes.co.uk

Horace Laffaye

News from the Publisher

Another packed issue rounds up the 2024 English outdoor season

At 100 pages, the September issue is this year’s biggest with a multitude of reports covering everything from: The Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup, Victor Ludorum round-up, The Coronation Cup and Whitbread Trophy, as well as polo action on the continent from Sotogrande and France.

Embracing grass roots polo – as well as the top echelons of the sport – we also feature the results and reports from The 2024 Pony Club Polo Championships. Again, generously hosted by the Cowdray Estate, Polo Times were delighted to support the Championships as a sponsor this year, with its three days of polo witnessing a staggering 248 children taking part.

Whilst this clearly demonstrates British youth polo is very much on the ascendancy and the high level of talent on display throughout the Championships confirms that the home-grown skill base is strong, it is a concern that the same cannot be said of British players actually being selected for the higher goal polo: disappointingly, here in the UK, only a handful of British players made it into the 22 goal teams, whilst it is seriously alarming that in Dubai, Sotogrande and St. Tropez there were no British players taking part this summer.

Consequently, Polo Times has broken its own self-imposed rule and decided to publish an anonymous letter on handicapping and, specifically, the under-handicapped overseas players, which have dominated the top slots in England this season. We decided to make an exception as handicapping is a very topical and contentious issue, currently being spoken of in hushed tones behind closed doors, for fear of recriminations, but which, for the betterment of the sport, must be widely discussed, with all options explored.

To provide a balance to the letter’s narrative –and let’s hope a step forward – it is worth noting that since Polo Times HQ received the letter, two of the young, Argentine Coronation Cup players have had their HPA 15-22 Goal handicaps raised: with Rufino Lauhlé jumping from 4 to 6 goals and his brother Beltran moving from 5 to 6 goals. Spectacularly under-handicapped before they even arrived, or just had a good run this season?... that is the question which really needs answering.

‘Hot potato’ to one side, it is fantastic the Pony Power pages are full of Polo Times Best Playing Pony rug winners with nine worthy equine superstar recipients spotlighted in this issue. I know that the Knowledge pages are always a highlight for many readers and I would love to hear from readers which is their favourite? For me, my Knowledge take-home tip from this issue is learning how Mark Tomlinson’s yard have broken with tradition, read-on.

As September’s sun begins to lose its strength, ponies here in the UK will soon be turned out for the winter – and in this moment, please spare a thought for those brave men and women who are fighting for ‘our’ collective freedom the world over.

As always, play safe

Nick Hine, Publisher

Klentner Ranch Win The Whittier Trust Silver Cup

On Sunday, August 11, Klentner Ranch secured a hard-fought 12-11 victory over 90210 to win The Whittier Trust Silver Cup. Klentner Ranch, featuring Nachi Viana, Jake Klentner, Jesse Bray, and Justin Klentner, built an early lead thanks to Viana’s consistent scoring, but 90210 mounted a strong comeback to tie the match at 11-all in the final chukka. The match was decided by a penalty conversion from Viana, who was named Most Valuable Player for his standout performance, including six goals. The Best Playing Pony award went to Zaira, a mare ridden by Geronimo Obregon of 90210, recognised for her agility and endurance throughout the match.

Despite 90210’s late surge, Klentner Ranch’s early advantage and Viana’s composure under pressure proved decisive. This victory marks Klentner Ranch’s second Silver Cup title.

The Whittier Trust Silver Cup Final Teams: 90210: Sarah Siegel-Magness, Gonzalo Ferrari, Geronimo Obregon & Roberto Zedda Jr. Klentner Ranch: Jake Klentner, Nachi Viana, Jesse Bray & Justin Klentner

The 26th Berenberg German Polo Masters

Team König Sylt emerged victorious in The 26th Berenberg German Polo Masters, defeating Transgourmet Cook 9-5 in the Final. This marks a special win for Ole König, celebrating a decade of involvement in the tournament. Team Berenberg clinched third place with a narrow victory over Aston Martin Hamburg, meanwhile, Team Polo Sylt secured fifth place, defeating Burckhardt Metall Glas GmbH’s debut team 11½-9.

2024 Silver Cup winners Klentner Ranch (Jake Klentner, Nachi Viana, Jesse Bray & Justin Klentner)

Photograph by Michelle Lauren

Photograph by Berenberg German Polo Masters

Team König Sylt, winners of The 26th Berenberg German Polo Masters

Churchill

HPA 15-22 Goal Handicap Changes

The Hurlingham Polo Association has announced the handicap changes for the 15-22 goal which will be effective from 1 January 2025.

Poroto Cambiaso has been raised to 10 goals after winning The Justerini & Brooks Prince of Wales Trophy and reaching the Finals of both The Cartier Queen’s Cup and Cowdray Gold Cup.

Recent Coronation Cup winner for Argentina, Beltran Laulhé, has been raised from 5 to 6 goals; and fellow Coronation Cup winner as well as Cowdray Gold cup and Archie David winner Rufino Laulhé has jumped up two goals from 4 to 6.

Cowdray Gold Cup finalists Kian Hall and Dillon Bacon have both gone up in handicap from 3 to 4 goal and 2 to 3 goals respectively, while Cowdray Gold Cup winner Rashid Albwardy has also gone up from 2 to 3 goals. Another high goal patron, Huges Carmignac, whose French team Talandracas won The Cartier Queen’s Cup has also been raised from 0 to 1 goal.

Three out of the four players who represented England in The Coronation Cup on 27 July, have seen their handicaps go down: Tommy Beresford from 8 to 7 goals, James Harper from 7 to 6 goals and Ollie Cudmore from 6 to 5 goals.

Going Up

9 to 10 goals: Poroto Cambiaso

7 to 8 goals: Alejandro Muzzio & Benjamin Panelo

5 to 7 goals: Antonio Heguy & Beltran Laulhe

5 to 6 goals: Rosendo Torreguita & Jose Araya

4 to 6 goals: Rufino Laulhe

4 to 5 goals: Rufino Merlos

3 to 5 goals: León Donoso

3 to 4 goals: Kian Hall & Mateo Lalor

2 to 3 goals: Estanislao Mariano Darritchon, Dillon Bacon, Thomas Ballesteros & Rashid Albwardy

1 to 2 goals: Juan Pepa

0 to 1 goal: Hugues Carmignac

Going Down

10 to 9 goals: Hilario Ulloa

9 to 8 goals: Sapo Caset

8 to 7 goals: Facundo Llorente, Tomas Fernandez Llorente, Matias Torres Zavaleta & Tommy Beresford

7 to 6 goals: Ignacio Negri & James Harper

6 to 5 goals: Mark Tomlinson & Ollie Cudmore

5 to 4 goals: Malcolm Borwick

4 to 3 goals: Max Hutchinson

2024 Coronation Cup winners Beltran Laulhe (left) & Rufino Laulhe (right) have both been raised in handicaps for the 2025 15-22 goal season

Photograph by Art of Polo

Editor’s Note: The Polo Times Facebook Page was hacked at the end of 2023 and we are still hoping to regain access, so thank you for your patience

won by Argentina, but in what year was The Coronation Cup first

Are You Game Ready On and Off The Field?

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”

by

Hilario Ulloa for Park Place v Lucas Criado for Bin Drai Polo in Talacrest Prince of Wales Championship Cup Final 2024

Photograph

Sam Churchill

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.

Priding themselves on their excellent in-client care; safety, wellbeing and comfort are of top priority in their service approach.

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?

Echelon Health Ltd are based at 68 Harley Street, London W1G 7HE

Client Suite

CT Scan

the Big picture

Kind Of Blue (oil on canvas)

Lew Brennan, born in Brisbane, Australia, in 1955, is a self-taught artist with a lifelong passion for painting and drawing. From an early age, Brennan showed a natural aptitude for art, selling his first pieces as a teenager. His work is known for its detailed realism, capturing intricate moments with a focus on movement and light.

For many years, Brennan balanced his artistic pursuits with a busy life, including working on a 700-acre farm in Cooran, Queensland, where he raised cattle and horses, alongside a full-time job in construction. Since retiring from farming and other work in 2012, Brennan has devoted himself to his art full-time.

His subjects range across equestrian themes, portraits, still life, landscapes, and narrative pieces. Through his work, Brennan invites viewers to engage personally with each piece, offering a glimpse into moments often overlooked in everyday life.

w

Artwork by Lew Brennan

The Crossing (oil on canvas)

Eye For An Eye (oil on canvas)

Appaloosa 1 (oil on canvas)

Polo (charcoal on Fabriano paper)

the world’s number one classic ferrari dealer

dealing in dreams

The first Edition of Dealing in Dreams, published in 2017, was a never-before-seen insight into the dealings of Talacrest and a record of the worlds most sought-after Ferraris and other incredible marques that passed through the Talacrest stable.The book sold out with incredible feedback and has afforded the opportunity for 10 charities to receive a share of a total of £175,000 raised by the book and donated by Talacrest. Talacrest have remained at the forefront of Classic Ferrari dealing with over $1 billion of sales. This updated and redesigned edition includes an additional 100 pages, with never-before-published photos and the inclusion of an even wider range of road and race Ferraris. In this special edition, John allows the reader a chance to see his personal collection includingtwo specially commissioned Ferraris. The book has a limited print run with all proceeds going to charity.

Talacrest Championship Cup Final Prince of Wales’s

Victory for Bin Drai Polo Team

Bin Drai Polo Team, winners of The Talacrest Prince of Wales Championship Cup

Photography by Sam Churchill

On a hot Sunday 11 August, Bin Drai Polo Team secured the last high goal tournament of the English season with a 12-9 win against Park Place in The Talacrest Prince of Wales Championship Cup Final at Guards Polo Club.

Before the Final began, the players took to the field to be introduced to the crowds not on their usual ponies but instead in a selection of beautiful Talacrest Ferraris. Park Place went into the Final looking for their third Talacrest

Prince of Wales Championship Cup title after winning in 2021 and 2022, while Bin Drai Polo Team were seeking to avenge their loss to Park Place in the opening match of the tournament.

Bin Drai Polo Team consistently attacked the Park Place goal mouth in the opening minutes, but their initial attempts were thwarted and Park Place stepped up their own attacks on goal too.

A whistle in favour of Park Place gave Hilario Ulloa a 40 yard hit and he seized the opportunity to score the first goal of the Final. Bin Drai Polo Team’s Tomas Panelo whisked the ball out of a throw-in and found his way through the traffic to level the scores, 1-1.

The second chukka began with a 30 yard penalty leftover from the first chukka, offering Bin Drai Polo Team their first chance to get ahead, which was coolly sent home by Lucas Criado Jnr. A flurry of goals ensued as Kian Hall picked the ball straight out of the next throw-in and easily ran the ball to goal from the half-way line, Hall then stole the ball away from Park Place and once again stormed to goal to extend Bin Drai’s lead to 4-1. Park Place’s Ulloa sent a huge shot up to goal which landed on Leon Donoso’s stick to reduce the deficit to

4-2. Penalty goals for both sides ended the chukka with Bin Drai still in the lead, 5-3.

By the third chukka both teams had got the measure of one another and the first five minutes were unusually goalless until Hall scored his third goal of the day. A penalty in favour of Park Place ended the chukka, 6-4 going into half-time.

The second half began with another goal from Hall, he was really making the most of this Final, pushing Bin Drai further into the lead, 7-4. Bin Drai capitlised on a penalty opportunity to extend their lead to 8-4, would Park Place be able to find their way back into this second half? Park Place quickly needed a goal of their own and it looked as though Ulloa had the answer, but the ball was deftly hit away from the goal line. However, their enthusiasm was not dampened and Park Place managed to eat away at the deficit to end the chukka just two goals behind, 9-7.

Bin Drai fought back in the fifth chukka with three goals of their own whilst simultaneously thwarting Park Place’s attempts on goal which held the blue shirts scoreless in the penultimate chukka.

Where: Guards Polo Club, Windsor

MVP

The sixth and final chukka saw a reversal of the chukka before as Park Place managed to hold Bin Drai scoreless, whilst converting two goals of their own, however Bin Drai’s early lead was simply too much to overcome with the time left

Chukka scores: 1-1, 5-3, 6-4, 9-7, 12-7, 12-9 to Bin Drai Polo Team The Talacrest Prince of Wales Championship

The Talacrest Prince of Wales Championship Cup Final Teams

and Bin Drai ran out the winners 12 goals to 9. The Subsidiary Final was won by BP Polo who beat Shoreline 8-5 and the Most Valuable Player was awarded to Alfredo Bigatti.

Park Place (20)

Andrey Borodin (0)

Leon Donoso (3)

Benjamin Panelo (7)

Hilario Ulloa (10)

Bin Drai Polo Team (20)

Mohammed Bin Drai (2)

Kian Hall (3)

Lucas Criado Jnr (6)

Tomas Panelo (9)

Mohammed Bin Drai

The Park Place players beside Talacrest Ferraris in front of spectators

The Talacrest Prince of Wales Championship Cup

Tomas Panelo vs Benji Panelo in the Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup Final

Versche played and owned by Tomas Panelo

Talacrest Young Player of The Year: Lachie Gilmore

1958 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series I

Considered by many as the most elegant open GT Ferrari of the 1950s, it is often the connoisseur’s choice for open air touring. This stunning GT is the 23rd of only 40 produced and presents a wonderful opportunity to acquire one of the few numbers matching examples. Finished in White with Turchese interior, surely makes this car one of the most desirable open Ferraris available today.

tHREE other selected ferraris currently FOR SALE

Argentina Secure

Seventh Victory

13-6 win against hosts England

JUL

The Coronation Cup Teams

England (27)

Matt Perry (6)

Ollie Cudmore (6)

James Harper (7)

Tommy Beresford (8)

Chukka scores: (1-0) 3-0, 5-1, 6-1, 8-4, 11-5, 13-6 to Argentina

Argentina (26)

Rufino Laulhé (4)

Beltrán Lauhlé (5)

Carlos M. Ulloa (7)

Hilario Ulloa (10)

Peter Wright & Gastón Lucero (Third man: Howard Smith)

Hilario Ulloa eyes up the ball with Matt Perry & Tommy Beresford in pursuit

Where: Guards Polo Club, Windsor 27

BPP

The Coronation Cup, established in 1911 to commemorate King George V’s coronation, continues to be a significant event in the polo calendar. Since 1971, the Hurlingham Polo Association has hosted the annual match, with England facing off against an invited international team.

Argentina continued their dominance in the Coronation Cup, defeating England 13-6 to claim the trophy for the seventh consecutive time. The match saw Argentina maintain their unbeaten streak in this prestigious event since their first appearance in 1953 with victories in 1953, 1995, 2000, 2009, 2014, and 2019.

BPP

The game started with Argentina having an advantage due to the handicap difference, and they quickly built a 3-0 lead by the end of the first chukka. England managed to get on the scoreboard in the second chukka with Ollie Cudmore’s angled shot, bringing the score to 4-1. However, Argentina responded immediately, extending their lead to 5-1 and then to 6-1 by half-time.

In the second half, England attempted a comeback, scoring three more goals to close the gap to 8-4. Despite their efforts, Argentina’s early lead

proved unassailable. By the end of the fifth chukka, Argentina had extended their lead to 11-5, and they added two more goals in the final chukka to secure a 13-6 victory. Cudmore scored England’s final goal in the last minute of the match.

The standout player was 14-year-old Rufino Laulhé, who made history as the youngest winner of The Coronation Cup. Laulhé scored seven goals for Argentina, earning him the Most Valuable Player Award. His performance was instrumental in securing Argentina’s victory.

Irenita Soprano, played by Rufino Laulhé and owned by Facu Sola

Rufino Laulhé

RoR BPP: Dark Hedges, played by Matt Perry

Photography by EKS

Images

Argentina celebrate winning their seventh consecutive Coronation Cup title

England Captain Tommy Beresford reaching down for the ball

The Coupe d’Argent Diane Barrière Trophy

What would a polo season be without this traditional stop in Deauville?

Polo has been played in Deauville since 1907 and The Barrière Deauville Polo Cup is played throughout August and comprises of The Coupe d’Argent, Coupe de Bronze and Coupe d’Or with additional matches such as their Beach Polo, The Diane Barrière Ladies Polo Club and Ladies Test Match (to read more about the women’s matches, please turn to the Women’s Polo pages).

The Coupe d’Argent - Trophée Diane Barrière Final featured a gripping match between Marques de Riscal, winners of The Coupe d’Or in 2020, and the defending champions, Barrière, led by Frenchwoman Isabelle Larenaudie. The match was tightly contested and highly defensive, with only one goal scored in the fourth chukka. Ultimately, it was Sapo Caset, the highest handicapped player on the field, who made the difference, leading Marques de Riscal to a hard-fought 9-7 victory.

Reflecting on the match, Caset remarked, “It was a very tough match. The Barrière team is excellent; they won The Gold Cup here last year and are very familiar with this field. They’re a close-knit team with great chemistry. For us, it was our first game with Luis Aznar, who wasn’t able to play in the first two matches. I’m thrilled with this victory and to lift The Silver Cup here in Deauville. It was a close contest, and although we missed several opportunities early on, the key was to capitalize in the last half, as there were no other options.”

Coupe d’Argent

Triumph

Marques de Riscal Claims Hard-Fought Victory

Where: Deauville Polo Club, France

The Coupe d’Argent Diane Barrière Trophy

MVP

The Coupe d’Argent Diane Barrière Trophy Final Teams

Barrière-Tédélou (17)

Isabelle Larenaudie (0)

Ramiro Zavaleta (4)

Juan-Gris Zavaleta (7)

Simon Zavaleta (6)

Chukka scores: 2-1, 3-1, 4-5, 5-5, 9-7 to Marques de Riscal

Marques de Riscal (16)

Alejandro Aznar (0)

Luis Aznar (1)

Sapo Caset (9)

Chris MacKenzie (6)

Sapo Caset

Sinatra, owned by Alfonso Rubirosa and played by Simon Zavaleta

BPP Cria Polo Argentino: Fly Otomana, owned and played by Sapo Caset

Photography by © Pascal RenauldonR&B Presse

Marques de Riscal, winners of The Coupe d’Argent

Sotogrande

Silver Cups

Wins for Dubai, Amanara & Calatagan

The Terralpa Silver Cup is the second event of the 53rd Andalusia International Polo Tournament which is played throughout July and August and incudes The Bronze Cup, The Terralpa Silver Cup and The Turkish Airlines Gold Cup. Each Cup is played across three handicap levels: High (20-22 goal), Medium (12-14 goal) and low (6-8 goal). For The Bronze Cup reports, please turn to page 31.

The Sotogrande Terralpa Silver Cup High Handicap Final

Dubai secured The High Handicap Terralpa Silver Cup on Saturday 17 August, by defeating MB Polo 11-9 in a closely contested Final at Court 3, Ayala Sede Los Pinos in Sotogrande. This victory marks the second year that Rashid Albwardy’s team has lifted the trophy, having also won it in 2022.

The Final was a rematch of the 2023 Gold Cup Final, and a tale of two halves. The first half was balanced, with a more open play in the first chukka, but the second and third chukkas saw tighter defence and fewer goals, with MB Polo leading 5-4 at half-time. However, Dubai turned the game around in the fourth chukka, with Camilo ‘Jeta’ Castagnola showcasing his skills, scoring multiple times and orchestrating the play for his team. Dubai outscored MB Polo 4-1 in the fourth chukka, shifting the momentum and establishing a two-goal lead that MB Polo could not overcome.

This victory is particularly significant as Dubai repeated their 2022 success with key players Albwardy and Castagnola. For Estanislao Darritchon, it was a memorable debut, securing his first title in Sotogrande. Meanwhile, Juan Martín Nero, returning to Sotogrande after five years, claimed the same title he won in 2019, once again alongside Castagnola, having previously won it with Brunei.

Castangola was chosen as the Most Valuable Player, Lovelocks Fidel, played by Castagnola received the Best Playing Pony rug, Gete Agua Marina, also played by Castagnola was the Argentine Polo Horse Breeders’ Association Best Playing Pony and MB Polo’s Mateen Bolkiah received the Fair Play Award.

The Sotogrande Terralpa Silver Cup High Handicap Final Teams:

Dubai (22): Camilo ‘Jeta’ Castagnola (10), Rashid Albwardy (2), Estanislao Darritchon (1) & Juan Martín Nero (9)

MB Polo (22): Mateen Bolkiah (0), Rufino Laulhé (4), Adolfo Cambiaso (9) & Pablo Mac Donough (9)

Dubai, winners of The High Goal Terralpa Silver Cup

Pablo Mac Donough & Camilo ‘Jeta’ Castagnola in The High Goal Terralpa Silver Cup Final

Photography by Matias

Callejo

The Sotogrande Terralpa Silver Cup Medium Handicap Final

On Friday 16 August, Amanara triumphed in The Terralpa Silver Cup for Medium Handicap defeating John Smith 13-6 in the Final held on Court 4 at Ayala Sede Los Pinos. This victory marks a significant turnaround for Nicky Sen’s team, which avenged their loss in the 2023 Silver Cup Final.

Amanara and John Smith had previously met in the qualifying stage, with John Smith emerging victorious. However, the Final at Ayala

Sede Los Pinos played out very differently. After a closely contested first half, which ended with Amanara holding a two goal lead, Amanara took control of the match. They capitalised on John Smith’s mistakes and steadily increased their lead, dominating the fourth and fifth chukkas. The Chavanne family trio of Santiago, along with his sons Lorenzo (16-years-old) and Pedro (14-yearsold), played a crucial role, consistently breaking down John Smith’s defence.

Lorenzo Chavanne was chosen as the Most Valuable Player of the Final, V8 Coco, played by Santiago Chavanne, was the Best Playing Pony and John Smith’s Gabriel Aguirre received the Fair Play Award.

The Sotogrande Terralpa Silver Cup Medium Handicap Final Teams: Amanara (14): Nicky Sen (0), Pedro Chavanne (2), Lorenzo Chavanne (5) & Santiago Chavanne (7) John Smith (14): Gabriel Aguirre (0), Nicolás Álvarez (2), Rosendo Torreguitar (5) & Alejandro Muzzio (7)

Amanara, winners of The Medium Goal Terralpa Silver Cup

MVP, Lorenzo Chavanne on the ball with Nicolás Álvarez in pursuit

The Sotogrande Terralpa Silver Cup Low Handicap Final

On Saturday 17 August, in the Low Handicap category, Calatagan emerged victorious in The Terralpa Silver Cup, defeating 1896 Polo 9-7 in the Final played on Court 4 at Ayala Sede Los Pinos, Sotogrande. This win was particularly sweet for Calatagan, as they avenged their loss in the Bronze Cup Final.

Calatagan dominated the match from the outset, establishing a 3-1 lead in the first chukka and extending it to 5-2 by half-time. Although 1896 Polo made a late push, closing the gap to 9-7 in the final chukka, Calatagan’s early lead proved insurmountable. Bautista Bello was chosen as the Most Valuable Player.

The Sotogrande Terralpa Silver Cup Low Handicap Final Teams: Calatagan (8): Andrew Romualdez (-1), Nicolás Tomasevich (1), Tomás Delfino (4) & Bautista Bello (4) 1896 Polo (8): Ahmed Kadiri (-1), Kevin Korst (1), Segundo Fernández Llorente (4) & Gerardo Mazzini (4)

Bautista Bello, Low Goal Terralpa Silver Cup Final Most Valuable Player

Calatagan, winners of The Low Goal Terralpa Silver Cup

Sotogrande Bronze Cups

Success for Calatagan, Electric Polo & 1896 Polo

The 53rd International Polo Tournament of Andalucía took place between the three playing fields of Ayala Polo Club and the four that Ayala Sede Los Pinos owns, and is contested in three handicap categories; High Handicap (20-22 Goals), Medium Handicap (12-14 Goals) and Low Handicap (6-8 Goals). The tournament is split into three different sections with The Bronze Cup (July 23 – 28), The Terralpa Silver Cup (July 30 – 17 August) and The Turkish Airlines Gold Cup (19 – 31 August).

The Sotogrande Bronze Cup High Handicap Final

The Calatagan team showcased their teamwork to secure a 10-7 victory over ATL Marine & Energy in The Sotogrande Bronze Cup High Handicap Final on Sunday 28 July on Court 3 of Ayala Sede Los Pinos.

The Calatagan organisation rebounded from their narrow loss in the Low Goal Final the previous day, channelling their determination into the High Handicap match. With recent Cowdray Gold Cup winner Antonio Heguy in the line-up, Calatagan managed to secure a 10-7 victory.

Calatagan reached the Final after defeating Sainte Mesme the previous Friday, building on their strong debut performance. Despite being a relatively new team, Calatagan quickly found their rhythm, demonstrating high-level play throughout the tournament. Their success was anchored by the leadership and experience of Facundo Pieres and Santiago Laborde, both of whom had previously won The Sotogrande Gold Cup together in 2017 and 2018.

The Final started with Calatagan at a 1-0 disadvantage due to the handicap difference, but they quickly turned the tide. Each chukka saw Calatagan extend their lead, with moments of brilliance from the team, particularly in crucial phases of the game. Although ATL Marine & Energy had their moments and closed the gap on a couple of occasions, Calatagan maintained control, ensuring their victory was never in doubt.

The standout performances included Heguy, who scored four goals and was named Most Valuable PLayer, and Facundo Pieres, who added three goals to the tally.

Laborde’s Ayala Cafetera, and Facundo Pieres’ Open Silhouette, both received Best Playing Pony rugs. The Fair Play Award went to Gonzalo Entrecanales of ATL Marine & Energy.

The Sotogrande Bronze Cup High Handicap Final Teams:

Calatagan (22): Martín Romualdez (0), Antonio Heguy (6), Santiago Laborde (6) & Facundo Pieres (10) ATL Marine & Energy (21): Gonzalo Entrecanales (0), Pablo Llorente (6), Barto Castagnola (10) & Santiago Tanoira (5)

Martín Romualdez & Santiago Tanoira in The Sotogrande Bronze Cup High Handicap Final

Photography by Matias

Callejo

Catalagan, winners of The High Goal Bronze Cup

Reports The 53rd Andalucía International Polo Tournament

The Sotogrande Bronze Cup Medium Handicap Final

Electric Polo clinched a spot in the Final of the Sotogrande Medium Handicap Bronze Cup, making a strong statement after their runner-up finish in 2023. This time, the team ensured a different outcome, overcoming an early deficit to secure a 12-10 victory.

The match began on Saturday 27 July with a promising start for John Smith, who raced to a 5-2 lead by the second chukka. However, Electric Polo remained composed, gradually closing the gap. By the end of the second chukka, they had not only erased the deficit but also took control of the scoreboard – a lead they would never relinquish for the remainder of the match.

The comeback was powered by the leadership of Tomás Willans and Félix Esaín from the back of the field, while Francisco Crotto, later named Most Valuable Player, delivered crucial contributions on the offensive end scoring five goals.

Esaín’s JNA Dama, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony and Sarah Braune received the Fair Play Award.

The Sotogrande Bronze Cup Medium Handicap Final Teams:

Electric Polo (14): Sarah Braune (0), Francisco Crotto (4), Félix Esaín (6) & Tomás Willans (4)

John Smith (14): Gabriel Aguirre (0), Nicolás Álvarez (2), Rosendo Torreguitar (5) & Alejandro Muzzio (7)

Alejandro Muzzio & Francisco Crotto were the top scorers from the Medium Handicap Final with five goals each

Electric Polo, winners of The Medium Goal Bronze Cup

The Sotogrande Bronze Cup Low Handicap Final

The Sotogrande Bronze Cup Low Handicap Final, held on Saturday, July 27, saw an exciting contest between 1896 Polo and Calatagan. In a thrilling comeback, 1896 Polo edged out Calatagan with a 7-6 victory, securing The Sotogrande Bronze Cup Low Handicap in dramatic fashion.

As the match unfolded, Calatagan appeared to be the clear favourite, steadily building a lead that put them three goals ahead late in the game. However, 1896 Polo showed remarkable resilience, refusing to back down even as the clock ticked towards the final moments.

The turning point came in a decisive play when Kevin Korst seized control of the ball at a crucial throw-in. Korst maintained possession, weaving through the opposition to score the winning goal, sealing the 7-6 victory for 1896 Polo.

Gerardo Mazzini was instrumental in the win, scoring six of the seven goals for 1896 Polo and earning the well-deserved Player of the Match award.

Nicolás Tomasevich’s Dispierta, was the Best Playing Pony, while Andrew Romualdez received the Fair Play Award for his sportsmanship.

The Sotogrande Bronze Cup Low Handicap Final Teams: 1896 Polo (8): Ahmed Kadiri (-1), Kevin Korst (1), Segundo Fernández Llorente (4) & Gerardo Mazzini (4) Calatagan (8): Andrew Romualdez (-1), Nicolás Tomasevich (1), Gregorio Gelosi (4) & Martín Espain (4)

Best Playing Pony, Dispierta

1896 Polo, winners of The Low Goal Bronze Cup

United States Success Again For 100 Years On

Hope Arellano chases the ball at Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly

France (14)

Elena Venot (2)

Dorian Bulteau (3)

Julien Reynes (4) Delfosse (5)

United States (14)

Quinn Evans (1)

Hope Arellano (3)

Nico Escobar (5) Cody Ellis (5)

Chukka scores: 1-1, 2-3, 5-5, 9-5, 10-7 to United States

2024 Paris Games Polo Challenge Teams

In a symbolic rematch of the opening game from the 1924 Paris Olympics, Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly hosted a contest between France and the USA. Although France was unable to avenge its 15-1 loss from a century ago, the team showed a much stronger performance on Sunday 7 August, closing the match with a respectable score of 10-7.

The French team held their own for the first three chukkas, with Clément Delfosse opening the scoring after a solo breakaway. However, Quinn Evans quickly responded, equalising the score and setting the tone for a closely fought match. The catand-mouse game continued through the first half, with the teams locked at 5-5 by the end of the third chukka. It wasn’t until the fourth chukka that the USA pulled ahead, ultimately securing their victory.

“It all came down to the small details,” reflected French team Captain Clément Delfosse. “Our preparation wasn’t optimal because we’re in the middle of the season, making it difficult to get together. We had to adapt to the situation and prepare as best as we could. We faced a team with a bit more experience, who were finalists at the last FIP World Championship, and who knew how to select the right horses for this match, which made a big difference. Considering how little preparation

we had, this result feels almost like a victory. We pushed ourselves to the limit for three chukkas to keep the score tight, but it became more challenging when we had to start doubling up. Julien Reynes and Dorian Bulteau played an outstanding game, helping us hold off a very strong, well-organized American team. So, for us, it’s still a small victory.”

From the American side, the sentiment was one of satisfaction with their well-executed strategy. “I played with an incredible team. These are players who often play together, and each one of them is excellent. We also benefited from some very good horses. I’m fortunate to play alongside these three, and I couldn’t be happier,” said Hope Arellano. “In the fourth chukka, we gave it our all with our best horses. We’d like to thank the owners of these horses, who kept us well-mounted. Our strategy to use our top horses in the fourth period made all the difference. This setting is incredible. I’ve only been here a few days, but each one has been absolutely magnificent. It’s my first time in France, and I love it. The Club is beautiful, the people have been so kind, and I’m extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to play here.”

Both the United States Polo Association (USPA) and the Fédération Française de Polo are already planning a follow-up test match for 2025, either in Chantilly or Palm Beach.

Nico Escobar

Open Amapola, owned by Jota Chavanne and played by Nico Escobar

Photography by Pascal RenauldonR&B Presse

The United States, celebrate their 2024 Paris Games Polo Challenge

Where: Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly, France

Victor & Victrix

15 reports from around the country from 18 to 4 goal

Ludorum Update

18 Goal Victor Ludorum

Guards Polo Club – The Indian Challenge Polo Trophy Final – Saturday 20 July

Number of teams: 12

Winners: La Irenita Points: 90

La Irenita retained The Indian Challenge Polo Trophy in late July, defeating Spencer McCarthy’s Emlor 7-5. This was an incredibly close, fast-paced game, with the teams tied in three out of the five, hotly contested chukkas. It was only goals from Pablo and Matias MacDonough in the fifth and final chukka that ensured it will be La Irenita’s name on the mighty shield for another year.

La Irenita’s Captain Pablo MacDonough might have kicked off the scoring in the first chukka from a penalty, but both teams struggled to get a decent foothold in the game. La Irenita could not even make the most of Emlor being down to three men when Max Charlton was sent to the sin bin in the first chukka.

The scores were level (4-4) at half-time and remained even in the fifth, thanks to goals from Matias and Jose Araya. So, it was left to Matias MacDonough, later named Most Valuable Player, while his uncle, Pablo, received the Polo Times Best Playing Pony prize for Irenita Máscara – to read more about Irenita Máscara, please turn to the Pony Power pages.

The Subsidiary Final was an equally close affair, from a tournament that had attracted 12 teams. Alexie Calvert-Ansari’s White Crane Black won this honour, defeating Sunjay Kapur’s Aureus 10-9.

The Indian Challenge Polo Trophy Final Teams: La Irenita (18): Gilberto Sayao da Silva (0), Leon Donoso (3), Pablo MacDonough (9) & Matias MacDonough (6) Emlor (18): Spencer McCarthy (1), Jose Araya (5), Max Charlton (6) & Javier Guerrero (6)

Photography by Pablo Ramirez

Emlor & La Irenita put on a thrilling show for the Final

La Irenita, winners of The Indian Polo Challenge Polo Trophy

Number of teams: Three

Winners: Valhalla

Points: 15

The final 18 goal match of the season unfolded on Lawns 1, where a packed crowd witnessed Valhalla overcome a strong start by White Crane Black to secure a 9-5 victory.

White Crane Black began the first chukka with intensity, taking the lead after a brilliant goal by Tommy Beresford was offset by a couple of costly fouls, leaving them ahead 2-1. The second and third chukkas followed a similar pattern, with both Beresford and Felipe Dabas finding the goal, keeping the score tight at 4-3 in favour of White Crane as the teams headed into half-time.

After the break, a revitalised Valhalla returned to the field with determination. English 6 goaler Jack Richardson led the charge, scoring a hat-trick, while Beresford added another goal to push Valhalla ahead 7-4 entering the final chukka. Valhalla continued their momentum, with Will Harper and Richardson each scoring impressive goals. Despite a last-minute goal by Mackenzie Weisz, White Crane Black couldn’t close the gap.

Richardson was named Most Valuable Player and also collected The Vickers Trophy and Best Playing Pony Rug for his horse Amber, who he co-owns with Lanto Sheridan.

Challenge

Final

Cowdray Park Polo Club – The Challenge Cup Final – Sunday 4 August

The

Cup

Teams: Valhalla (18): Emma MacRae (0), Will Harper (4), Jack Richardson (6) & Tommy Beresford (8) White Crane Black (18): Jasmine Calvert-Ansari (0), James Beim (6), Mackenzie Weisz (6) & Felipe Dabas (6) Valhalla, winners of The Challenge Cup

Action from The Challenge Cup Final, the last 18 goal contest of the season

Photography by Mark Beaumont

15 Goal Victor Ludorum

Cowdray Park Polo Club – The Harrison Cup Final – Saturday 3 August

Number of teams: 11

Winners: Emlor

Points: 60

The Harrison Cup Final unfolded on a bustling Lawns 2, where Emlor faced off against the UAE Polo Team. Both teams battled fiercely, but it was Emlor’s cohesive teamwork that ultimately secured a 12-9 victory.

The match began with UAE Polo Team taking an early lead as Lukin Monteverde converted two penalties in the first chukka. Emlor quickly answered, with Spencer McCarthy finding the goal to keep the pressure on. The second chukka saw Emlor gaining momentum, netting four goals across the team, while another penalty from

winners of The Harrison Cup with The Honorary Lila Pearson Monteverde kept UAE in contention. By the end of the chukka, Emlor had edged ahead, leading 5-3.

UAE Polo Team mounted a strong comeback in the third chukka, with Monteverde and Jacinto Crotto combining to score three goals, giving UAE a narrow 6-5 lead at half-time. However, after the break, Emlor came out firing, with Chulo Guerrero securing a hat trick and McCarthy adding another goal, putting Emlor back in front 9-7 as they entered the final chukka.

With everything still to play for, UAE Polo Team made a determined push with two more goals from Monteverde, but Emlor’s relentless attack saw them score three additional goals, sealing a wellearned 12-9 victory.

Spencer McCarthy received the Most Valuable Player Award and The Brooke Joynson Cup for the Best Playing Pony went to Passion, played by Monteverde and owned by UAE.

The Harrison Cup Final Teams:

Emlor (15): Spencer McCarthy (1), James McCarthy (2), Max Charlton (6) & Chulo Guerrero (6) UAE Polo Team (15): HH Sheika Maitha (0), Hazel Jackson (2), Lukin Monteverde (7) & Jacinto Crotto (6)

Cirencester Park Polo Club – The County Cup Final – Saturday 17 August

Number of teams: Six

Winners: Manton Park

Points: Awaiting ratification from HPA On Saturday 17 August, Manton Park beat Lodge Security 11-7 in The County Cup Final on Ivy Lodge, with Benjamin Urquiza named Most Valuable Player and his pony Machitos Beck chosen as the Best Playing Pony.

In the Subsidiary Final Performance Polo secured a 6-4 win against Noon Giraffe.

The County Cup Final Teams: Manton Park (15): Freddie Meade (1), Mark Baldwin (3), Benjamin Urquiza (6) & Tommy Severn (5) Lodge Security (15): Stuart Lodge (1), Dom Lodge (4), Louis Hine (5) & Ned Hine (5)

Emlor,

Photography by Mark Beaumont

Jacinto Crotto eyes up the ball at a gallop

Manton Park, winners of The County Cup

Photograph by John Hankin

Ned Hine on the ball for Lodge Security

Photograph by Tom Reynolds

12 Goal

Victor Ludorum

Cirencester Park Polo Club – The Cheltenham Cup Final – Sunday 28 July Number of teams: Nine

Winners: Aureus

Points: 60

With nine teams competing, the tournament promised to deliver excitement for both players and spectators alike. The Final and Subsidiary Final matches were held on the main ground at Ivy Lodge. The Final match began with a slightly different Aureus team facing a hopeful Quianto team, both fiercely competing for the coveted trophy. Quianto started strong, with Enrico Meneghetti scoring the first goal after winning the ball in the lineout. However, Aureus quickly responded, scoring two goals in the first chukka. The fourth chukka was a nail-biter, with both teams locked in a draw. In a thrilling moment, Aureus’ Ed Banner Eve broke free from the pack and scored the decisive goal, securing the victory for Aureus. Mark Tomlinson was named Most Valuable Player and Marchiquita, played by Teodoro Lacau, was the Best Playing Pony.

The Subsidiary Final mirrored the intensity of the main match. Silvertown’s Zac Beim clinched the final goal just before the bell in the last chukka, sealing the win.

Guards Polo Club – The Duke of Wellington Final – Sunday 18 August Number of teams: 15

Winners: Mirror

Points: Awaiting ratification from HPA Sarkis Gabrelian had a successful August weekend at Guards Polo Club. On the Saturday his Mirror team won The Cottington Cup. 24 hours later a higher-handicapped Mirror squad added the 12 goal Duke of Wellington Trophy to their collection.

The Mirror (receiving half a goal on handicap) defeated Andrew Dechet’s Ainsley Saddlery 8½-6 in the Final.

Dechet’s team started strongly with Lachie Gilmore, who just a week earlier had been named The Talacrest Guards Young Player of the Year, fired through a hat-trick of goals. With Javier Guerrero also finding the flags, Ainsley Saddlery were 4-1½ ahead at the start of the second chukka. The Mirror got themselves a little closer at the half-time bell (5-3½) but Ainsley Saddlery were still in command of this match.

It was all change in the second half though. The Most Valuable Player, Max Charlton, successfully negotiated traffic to score and a Mirror penalty gave them the lead for the first time (5½-5). With Antonio Sorzana firing through a lovely field goal, The Mirror squad were now in control. With Guerrero scoring twice more in the fourth and final chukka, these goals confirmed The Mirror’s superiority.

Eleanor Wellesley, the granddaughter of the trophy’s namesake, the 8th Duke of Wellington, presented the prizes. This included the Polo Times Best Playing Pony rug for Gasper. This RoR, seven-year-old mare was played by Max Charlton in part of the first, second and fourth chukkas.

The Subsidiary Final, played earlier in the day, saw a win for Cibao La Pampa/Beaufort who defeated the Bin Drai Polo Team 8-4.

The Duke of Wellington Final Teams: The Mirror (11): Sarkis Gabrelian (-1), Antonio Sorzana (0), Max Charlton (6) & Javier Guerrero (6) Ainsley Saddlery (12): Andrew Dechet (1), Catalina Lavinia (2), Lachlan Gilmore (4) & Ed Banner Eve (5)

Eleanor Wellesley with The Mirror, winners of The Duke of Wellington

Aureus, winners of The Cheltenham Cup

Best Playing Pony, Marchiquita

Photography by Tom Reynolds

The Mirror vs Ainsley Saddlery in The Duke of Wellington Final

Cowdray Park Polo Club – The

Number of teams: 14

Winners: Maiz Dulce

Points: 90

On a sun-soaked afternoon at Lawns 2, Maiz Dulce and Tchogan faced off in The Holden White Cup Final. The match was a gripping contest, with both teams showcasing skill and determination. Despite a valiant last-minute surge by Tchogan, it was Maiz Dulce who ultimately claimed victory in an intense extra chukka, edging out their rivals 8-7.

The action kicked off in the first chukka with Alfie Hyde opening the scoring for Maiz Dulce, quickly followed by a second goal from Bautista Sorzana. However, Tchogan responded swiftly with a brilliant goal from the young Andino Donoso,

8 Goal Victor Ludorum

Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club – The Howard Hipwood Final – Saturday 20 July

Number of teams: 9

Winners: Jam Jar Polo Team

Points: 60

Jam Jar Polo Team and Kulin Rock went head to head in The Howard Hipwood Final at the end of July. With the scores tied at the end of the fourth chukka, the match was pushed into an extra chukka which saw Jam Jar Polo Team score the decisive goal to take the win 6-5. Santiago Araya was chosen as Most Valuable Player and Milagros, owned and played by Charlie Walton, was the Best Playing Pony.

The Subsidiary Final for The Michael Amoore Trophy was between Elemental and Broadsword and was won by Elemental 9-7½.

The Howard Hipwood Final Teams:

JamJar Polo Team (8): Adilla Jamaludin (0), Pedro Araya (0), Santiago Araya (4) & Juan Cruz Araya (4)

Kulin Rock (8): Olivia Lamphee (0), Richard Bailey (0), Charlie Walton (4) & Nico Fontanarrosa (4)

Final – Sunday 4 August

ending the chukka with Maiz Dulce leading 2-1. The second chukka saw Maiz Dulce extend their lead with three goals distributed across the team, but Tchogan’s Will Emerson kept his side in the game, bringing the halftime score to 5-2 in favour of Maiz Dulce.

As the match resumed in the third chukka, both teams demonstrated their determination, each scoring two goals, setting the stage for a tense final chukka. The crowd was on the edge of their seats as Tchogan mounted a remarkable comeback in the last chukka, tightening their defence to prevent

any further goals from Maiz Dulce. Outstanding goals from Mateo Lalor and Heiko Voelker brought Tchogan level, forcing the game into an extra chukka.

In the decisive extra chukka, both teams battled fiercely, but it was Hyde, later named Most Valuable Player, who scored the winning goal to secure an 8-7 victory for Maiz Dulce. The Best Playing Pony Rug was awarded to Barbara, played by Hyde and owned by Peter Barfoot.

The Holden White Cup Final Teams: Maiz Dulce (8): Giselle Barfoot

Sam Wisbey (1), Alfie Hyde (3) & Bautista Sorzana (4)

Tchogan (8): Heiko Voelker (0), Andino Donoso (0), Mateo Lalor (3) & Will Emerson (5)

Nico Fontanarrosa sends a backhand for Kulin Rock

Jam Jar Polo Team, winners of The Howard Hipwood Final

Photography by iSookPhotography

Tchogan’s Andino Donoso being hooked out of the ball by Maiz Dulce’s Bautista Sorzana

(0),

Holden White Cup

Maiz Dulce, winners of The Holden White Cup

Photography by Mark Beaumont

6 Goal Victor Ludorum

Kirtlington Park Polo Club – The Budgett Everett Final – Sunday 11 August Number of teams: Seven

Winners: IC Polo team

Points: Awaiting ratification from HPA

On a bright and bustling day at Kirtlington Park Polo Club, spectators were treated to an exhilarating display of polo as the IC Polo team clashed with the Wildebeest team in the Final of the Kirtlington Cup. The line-up promised a thrilling encounter, and the teams did not disappoint.

The IC Polo team showcased a compelling mix of youthful energy and seasoned skill, with the father-son duo Oscar and Benjie Mancini providing a particularly fascinating dynamic. On the other side, the Wildebeest team featured the steadfast prowess of Chris Crawford, the tactical genius of Nico Fontanarrosa, the reliable backhand of Neil Cox, and a standout performance from Lola Barlow, who played well above her 0 handicap rating.

From the outset, both teams demonstrated intense competitiveness and strategic play. Going into the final chukka, Wildebeest were leading 6-4 and appeared to be in command of the match. However, the IC Polo team had saved their best for last. In a breathtaking turn of events, they produced a remarkable comeback. Demonstrating exceptional horse control and teamwork, Oscar Mancini effectively disrupted Wildebeest’s play, allowing Ben Simm to capitalise on the opportunities created. The final score was 8-7 to IC Polo.

Clarita, owned and playerd by Oscar Mancini, was the Best Playing Pony and Ben Simm, who scored the winning goal, was chosen as Most Valuable Player.

The Budgett Everett Final Teams: IC Polo (6): David Awuah-Darko (0), Ben Simm (1), Benjamin Mancini (2) & Oscar Mancini (3) Wildebeest (6): Lolo Barlow (0), Neil Cox (0), Christopher Crawford (2) & Nico Fontanarrosa (4)

Polo Club – The Eduardo Rojas Lanusse Final – Saturday 15 June Number of teams: 7

Winners: Wildebeest

Points: 60

Originally scheduled for Sunday 15 June, The Eduardo Rojas Lanusse Final was postponed due to rain and was finally played on Sunday 26 July between Vipers and Wildebeest. Wildebeest managed to secure the win by 7 goals to 5½. The Polo Times Best Playing Pony rug was awarded to Nico Fontanarrosa’s Irupe – to read more about Irupe, please turn to the Pony Power pages.

Best Playing Pony, Clarita, owned and played by Oscar Mancini

Beaufort

The Eduardo Rojas Lanusse Final teams, Vipers & Wildebeest

IC Polo Team, winners of The Budgett Everett

Photography courtesy of KPPC

Photograph by Nico Fontanarrosa

The Polo Times Best Playing Pony, Irupe

Photograph by BPC

4 Goal Super League Victor Ludorum

Cambridge & Newmarket Polo Club – The Orminston Cup Final – Sunday 21 July

Number of teams: Four

Winners: St Paul/Cambridge/Neurotech Points: 30

The Orminston Cup that has been played at CNPC since 1992 and now forms part of the HPA 4 Goal Victor Ludorum series. Four teams had entered, three from East Anglia and Thoresby Park travelling down from Nottingham. The latter secured their place in the Final by beating the local CNPC team, Bolebec 6-4, with a flourish of three goals at the end of the fourth chukka. The other finalist St. Pauls / Cambridge Neurotec beat local

Number of teams: Five

Winners: Core Polo

Points: 15

rivals Truth by a similar score.

Going into the Final Thoresby Park had to replace one of their players Amy Sallabank and young Tommy Aita Tagle, visiting CNPC from Ireland, was drafted in to take her place. St Pauls/ C Neurotec based around ex India International Abby Pathakk started the game very strongly. With some excellent carries from their number 1, Omar St Pauls, maintained pressure all chukka

on the Thoresby team, eventually leading to a first and second goal off the stick of Pathakk, St Pauls/ Neurotec led at the end of the first chukka 2-0. Both teams added a goal apiece in chukkas two and three and so the fourth chukka began 4 -2 in favour of St Pauls/Neurotec. As they had done in their previous match, Thoresby Park came out in the fourth all guns blazing and despite some lovely interplay between brothers Cory and Gareth Meikle they were unable to break through and find the goal, allowing St Pauls/Neurotec to win the match 4-2.

The Orminston Cup Final Teams: Thoresby Park (4): Amy Sallabank (0) (replaced by Tommy Aita Tagle (-1), Cory Meikle (2), Gareth Meikle (3) & John Williams (-1) St Pauls / C Neurotec (3): Tahl Holzman (0), Omar St Pauls (-1), Abby Pathakk (3) & Byron Human (1)

On a muggy afternoon on the Salisbury Plains, a crowd watched the two teams fight for the coveted Druids Rose Bowl. The first chukka opened evenly but Core Polo pulled away in the second and despite a goal in the third chukka, Coombe Place’s hard work couldn’t match Core Polo’s goal rate and Core Polo ran out the winners, 7-2. The Club commented, “we were thrilled by the pony and player talent on the field in a wonderfully competitive match”.

The Rosebowl Final Teams: Coombe Place (4): Ollie Bate (-1), Mark Deacon (2), Harold Hodges (3) & Nii White (0) Core Polo (4): Wilf Bate (0), Hugh Bate (0), Andrew Baldwin (1) & Eden Ormerod (3)

St Pauls/Neurotec, winners of The Orminston Cup

Druids Lodge Polo Club – The Druids Rose Bowl Final – Sunday 28 July

Core Polo, winners of The Druids Rose Bowl

Victor & Victrix Ludorum Update

St Pauls/Neurotec in action during the Final at CNPC

Photography by Charles Coldrey

Stevie McCraith playing for Canonbury in The Rosebowl Subsidiary Final

Photography by Michael Berkeley

Action from The Druids Rose Bowl between Core Polo & Coombe Place

Vaux Park Polo Club – The Vaux Park 4 Goal Final – Sunday 11 August

Number of teams: Four

Winners: Coombe Place

Points: Awaiting ratification from HPA

The match up for the Final was an interesting prospect with Coombe Place regularly playing together making them the obvious favourites. Vaux Park were a scratch team but Brook Bishop and Tom DaltonMorgan started to find a good rhythm in the last two chukkas on Saturday to get into the Final.

The Final was a fantastic game with Coombe Place taking an early lead, Vaux Park fought hard to keep the scores close and managed to get within one goal in the fourth chukka with some great individual goals by Dalton-Morgan. It seemed at this point that Vaux Park had the momentum and could snatch the win, but Coombe Place managed to get their composure back and see out the game with the score ending 5-4.

The Polo Times Best Playing Pony was awarded to Lady, played and owned by Tom Dalton-Morgan (to read more about Lady, please turn to the Pony power pages), judged by Jack McCullagh. The Most Valuable Player Award donated by TechStirrups was presented to Mark Deacon. The day was hosted by Ali Hunter, raising money for Cancer Research UK and with everyone’s generous donation they managed to raise £1,400.

Victrix Ludorum

Cirencester Park Polo Club – The Cirencester Ladies 16 Goal Final – Sunday 16 June Number of teams: Six Winners: Confido Points: 60

The Ladies’ 16 Goal Victrix Ludorum saw impressive performances in both the Final and Subsidiary Final matches. Confido secured a 7-4 win against Performance Polo in the Final. Throughout the match, Nina Clarkin scored multiple goals, making a significant impact in the second and third chukkas. Lucy Coddington also added to the score in the fourth chukka, helping Confido clinch the win. Brigitte Boher was named Most Valuable Player and Flippa, played by Nina Clarkin was the Best Playing Pony. In the Subsidiary Final, Smiths Polo emerged victorious. The team worked well together on the field. Sarah Wiseman scored crucial goals in the first and third chukkas, while Jemima Walker contributed in the second, leading Smiths Polo to a well-earned 7-1 victory against Alegria.

The Cirencester Ladies 16 Goal Final Teams: Confido (16): Elizabeth Clarkin (0), Nina Armitage-Lyon (1), Nina Clarkin (10), and Lucy Coddington (5)

The Vaux Park 4 Goal Final Teams: Coombe Place (4): Olly Bate (-1), Mark Deacon (2), Harold Hodges (3) & Nii White (0) Vaux Park (4): Gavin Dalton-Morgan (0), Steve Worsley (0), Tom Dalton-Morgan (2) & Brook Bishop (2)

Polo Times Best Playing Pony Lady, played and owned by Tom Dalton-Morgan

Performance Polo (16): Michela Webber (2), Brigitte Boher (2), Emma Wood (6) & Tamara Fox (6) The Cirencester Ladies 16 Goal Final teams, Confido & Performance Polo

Photograph by Tom Reynolds

Four teams took part in The Vaux Park 4 Goal

Photography by VPPC

Beaufort Polo Club – The Claire Tomlinson Trophy Final – Thursday 8 August

Number of teams: Three

Winners: Smiths Polo Points: Awaiting ratification from HPA

The Final of the Claire Tomlinson Trophy was played on 8 August, on HMA Tax No1 Ground in typical British summertime weather!

Performance Polo took on Smiths Polo in a tightly contested match leading to an extra chukka. The final goal was scored by Sarah Wiseman, giving Smiths Polo the win.

The Polo Times Best Playing Pony rug was awarded to Gibson, owned and played by Sarah Wiseman – to read more about Gibson, please turn to the Pony Power pages.

Trophy Final Teams:

The Claire Tomlinson

Smiths Polo (16): Lisa Smith (2), Jemima Walker (3), Claire Brougham (5) & Sarah Wiseman (6)

Performance Polo (16): Michaela Weber (2), Brigitte Boher (2), Emma Wood (6) & Tamara Fox (6)

Polo Times Best Playing Pony Gibson, owned and played by Sarah Wiseman

Photography by Joss Ridley Photography

Smiths Polo, winners of The Claire Tomlinson Trophy

Carlitos White Waltham Polo Club

The Gold Cedar Tree Trophy Final was played on Sunday 28 July between Mountgerald and Cedar Polo Teams. In the first two chukkas, Cedar took control scoring five goals, however Mountgerald fought back hard in the last two chukkas providing a final score of 6-3½. Most Valuable Player was presented to Alex Hayman-Joyce and Catherine Isted’s Zorrito won Best Playing Pony, a perfect polo pony, home bred out of the Tomlinson’s stallion Zorro.

At the start of August, the Club tournament was sponsored by Alexandra

Hayman-Joyce, one of the first ever Members: her TAI TAI Polo Tournament has an Asian theme and it is always a favourite at the Club. This year the beautiful, engraved chopsticks were presented to the winning Cedar Polo Team by her husband Alex and their Labrador Nala.

On Saturday 10 August The Challenger Lighting Polo Tournament Final took place between Carpe Diem and Cedar Polo Teams. In the first two chukkas, Cedar both defended brilliantly and also scored a good few goals, Carpe Diem fought back hard in the third and fourth chukkas, but not

Guards Polo Club

Congratulations to Jehangiri Polo Team, winners of The Crawford Cup with their 6-3 win against Tchogan on Sunday 4 August. Hamish Maclennan was chosen as Most Valuable Player and Boleyn, played by Josh Clover, was the Polo Times Best Playing Pony.

The Subsidiary Final was won by Elzana with an 11-8 score against Harum Scarum.

The Mirror won The Cottington Cup on Saturday 17 August with a score of 8½-7, with Bounty, played by Eugenio Imaz, chosen as the

quite enough to beat Cedar, leaving a final score of 6 -4. On Sunday 11 August, The Telemark Christina Cup Final was played between Grand Cru and Curve Polo Teams in an exciting and closely fought match. The final score of 6-6 resulted in a penalty shoot out in which Grand Cru proved their hitting skills were better by winning 4-2 to take the trophy.

Over 17 – 18 August, Cedar and Mayura Polo Teams won their qualifying matches on Saturday to move forward into The Premiere Polo Trophy Final on Sunday with Cedar Polo Team winning 8-5½.

Best Playing Pony and Nico Roberts named Most Valuable Player.

The Crawford Cup Final Teams:

Jehangiri Polo Team (4): Muhammad Anas Zia Jehangiri (-1), Hamish Maclennan (0), Josh Clover (2) & Oscar Mancini (3) Tchogan (4): Heiko Voelker (0), Nicholas Hiller (1), Juan Pepa (1) & Max Voelker (2)

The Telemark Christina Cup Final teams: Curve Polo Team (L-R: Jonathan Gregory, Clare Graham, Bilal Shaykh & Malcolm Ford) with Tele Kyriacou and winners Cru Polo Team (L-R: Alex Hayman-Joyce, Catherine Isted, Mo Ladan & Nicola Bonito-Oliva)

Bilal Shaykh, Dominic Cunningham & Mo Ladan, winners of The Premiere Polo Trophy with Georgina Spring

L-R: The Gold Cedar Tree Trophy winners Cedar (Alex Hayman-Joyce, Bilal Shaykh & Catherine Isted), with Georgina Brittain and runners up, Mountgerald (Sarah Grant, Jack Spring & Malcolm Ford)

Cedar Polo Team, winners of The TAI TAI Polo Tournament (L-R: Tariq Dag Khan, Bilal Shaykh, Jack Spring & Andy Dorriné with Alex Hayman-Joyce)

Cedar Polo Team, winners of The Challenger Lighting Polo Tournament (L-R: Alex Hayman-Joyce, Catherine Isted, Bilal Shaykh & Jonathan Gregory)

Photography by WWPC

Jehangiri Polo Team, winners of The Crawford Cup Polo Times Best Playing Pony, Boleyn

The Mirror, winners of The Cottington Cup

Cirencester Park Polo Club

The Humphrey Guinness Plate was played on Friday 19 July after it was postponed earlier in the season. Nelson Polo went up against Trewsbury Farm in a battle to take home the win, 6 goals to 3½. Best Playing Pony was awarded to Jamba, played by Grant Collett.

On Sunday 20 July, The Doug Brown Final was played between R&R Knives & Forks and Noon Giraffe, with R&R Knives & Forks taking home the trophy 6 goals to 4.

The subsidiary final was played earlier in the day, Soanza Polo put up a good fight against Tafia Mafia, winning the game 4-2.

In brilliant sunshine on Sunday 28 July, Syreford/Noon Giraffe won The Ponting Pot, 5-3½ against R&R Tables and Chairs.

Congratulations to Fidus Capital, who beat R&R Polo 8-6 in The Jack Williams Trophy on Saturday 10 August. The Subsidiary Final saw Tafia Mafia/Deepbridge Capital beat Shibumi 5½-4.

Santa Barbara Polo Club

The Robert Skene Trophy Final was held on Sunday 21 July – the tournament honours ‘Hurricane Bob’ Skene, a legendary player, teacher, coach and Club Manager who held a 10 goal handicap for 17 years. Antelope took an early lead with two quick goals from Leon Schwencke. Klentner Ranch responded, sparking a three-chukka rally that tied the score at 5-5 by half-time. In the fifth chukka, Antelope surged ahead with three goals, but Bray and Viana led Klentner Ranch back into contention.

In the sixth chukka, Viana put Klentner Ranch in the lead. However, Antelope, under coach Santiago Trotz, equalised with two field goals. In a dramatic finish, Vercellino capitalised on a broken play with a stunning cut shot, securing Antelope’s 12-11 victory. Leon Schwencke was named Most Valuable Player, and the Best Playing Pony

Award went to Latia Bancada, played and owned by Felipe ‘Pipe’ Vercellino.

The Robert Skene Trophy Final Teams: Antelope: Grant Palmer, Leon Schwencke, ‘Pipe’ Vercellino & Lucas Escobar Klentner Ranch: Jake Klentner, ‘Nachi’ Viana, Jesse Bray & Justin Klentner

Cowdray Park Polo Club

On Sunday 18 August, Stonehurst (Dominic Jones (0), William Roberts (0), Ben Sim (1) & Nick Clague (3)) beat Todham X-Zony Polo 9-4 in The Lodsworth Village Cup Final.

Greenwich Polo Club

Escape Aviation triumphed in The East Coast Gold Cup Final edging out against Jefferies with a narrow 13-12 victory. The match was fiercely competitive from the opening chukka, with both teams exchanging goals to keep the score tight. Escape Aviation maintained a slight edge throughout, using their collective momentum to fend off a late surge from Jefferies and secure the one goal win.

Max Gundlach was named Most Valuable Player, while Don Ercole Pili, played and owned by Torito Ruiz Jorba, received the Best Playing Pony award.

East Coast Gold Cup Final Teams:

Escape Aviation: Max Gundlach, Nico Diaz Alberdi, Gallego Martinez Ferrario & Pipe Miguens Casado

Jefferies: Leandro Infantino, Antonio Aguerre, Victorino Torito Ruiz Jorba & Toly Ulloa

Nelson Polo, winners of The Humphrey Guinness Plate R&R Knives & Forks, winners of The Doug Brown Fidus Capital, winners of The Jack Williams Trophy

Syreford/Noon Giraffe, winners of The Ponting Pot

Photograph by Tom Reynolds

Photograph by Tom Reynolds

Photograph by Tom Reynolds

Photograph by John Hankin

Photograph by ©Penmax Productions

2024 East Coast Gold Cup winners, Escape Aviation

Antelope, winners of The Robert Skene Trophy

Photograph by Michelle Lauren

Stonehurst, winners of The Lodsworth Village

Photograph by Mark Beaumont

Aspen Valley Polo Club

The Basalt Handicap Final was played between Los Amigos Red and Audi on Sunday 22 July. Los Amigos Red dominated from the second chukka onwards and without hesitation secured a 15-8 win for their first title of the season. Grant Ganzi was named Most Valuable Player and China Clay, played by Ganzi and bred and owned by Santa Rita Polo Farm, was the American Polo Horse Association Best Playing Pony. Los Amigos Red won The Emma Challenge Cup narrowly defeating Tamera 8-7 on Sunday 28 July. This was the second summer tournament victory for Los Amigos. The match featured ten lead changes. Tamera led 4-2 at halftime after Poma’s goal ended the second chukka. Los Amigos Red turned the game around in the fourth chukka with three unanswered goals from Toccalino, leading 5-4 into the fifth chukka. They capitalised on Tamera’s errors, with

Novillo Astrada’s two goals extending their lead to 7-5.

Toccalino, who made his debut at Aspen Valley Polo Club, was subsequently named Most Valuable Player and also received AVPC Best Playing Pony honours for Valentine, a 13-year-old mare which he played. Candy Crush, played by Alejandro Novillo Astrada, was the American Polo Horse Association Best Playing Pony.

Mountain Chevrolet defended its title in The High Alpine Cup with a 9-8 win over Casablanca. Argentine 9 goaler Gonzalito Pieres, later named Most Valuable Player, scored seven goals, including a crucial 40yard penalty to secure the lead. Mountain Chevrolet started strong with a 3-0 lead after the first chukka. Casablanca fought back, tying the game 6-6 in the fourth chukka, but couldn’t maintain the momentum. Despite a late rally, Casablanca fell short. Best Playing

Dart Bloodstock Polo Club

After a particularly rainy season, the blazing sun made a welcome break for the Final of The Chandigarh Cup on Sunday 28 July. The stage was set for a Final between the home Club team, DBPC, and the visiting team, from the Indian city of Chandigarh themselves, Sunbrave Polo Team. Led by team owner, Survayeer Bali, Sunbrave looked to take the Cup back to Chandigarh!

With spectators basking in the sun and enjoying a few glasses of Pimm’s, Sunbrave got off to a strong start in the first chukka, taking a dominating 5-1 lead over DBPC. Coming into the second and third chukkas, and after a bit of a wakeup call in the first, DBPC came back firing on all cylinders as they looked to make a comeback. A couple of dazzling runs by Ed Morris helped claw back the deficit to just one goal, leaving the score at 8-7 going into the final chukka. The stage was now set for an exhilarating final chukka as DBPC sought to keep up the momentum and pull them into the lead. After some great defensive plays from Sunbrave, the clock was ticking down with the one goal lead still intact. Going into the final minute, Garath Meikle – who was dominant on the field the whole match –

made a piercing run, securing the win for Sunbrave 9-7.

Most Valuable Player was subsequently awarded to Garath, after his impressive performance for Sunbrave. Best Playing Pony was awarded to, Dante, a four-yearold retrained racehorse by Dart Bloodstock, owned and played by Ed Morris.

The Chandigarh Cup Final Teams:

Sunbrave Polo (0): Survayeer Bali (-2), Isabel Fall (-1), Amy Sallabank (0) & Garath Meikle (3) Dart Bloodstock Polo Club (0): Lily Grimwade (-2), Amy Thompson (-1), Ben Crookes (1) & Ed Morris (2)

Pony honours went to Aiken and Silver Peak, both played by Pablo Spinacci.

The Basalt Handicap Final Teams:

Los Amigos Red (16): Paul Foster (0), Grant Ganzi (3), Nic Roldan (8) & Hilario Figueras (5)

Audi (16): Marc Ganzi (1), Martin Jauregui (6), Tomacho Pieres (6) & Jimmy Seward (3)

The Emma Challenge Cup Final Teams: Los Amigos Red (17): Alejandra Foster (0), Santi Toccalino (7), Alejandro Novillo Astrada (7) & Juan Bollini (3)

Tamera (17): Ale Poma (1), Grant Ganzi (3), Hilario Figueras (5) & Nic Roldan (8)

The High Alpine Cup Final Teams: Mountain Chevrolet (16): Fran Spinacci (1), Michael Payne (1), Pablo Spinacci (5) & Gonzalito Pieres (9)

Casablanca (14): Michael Calle (1), Santos Bollini (2), Grant Ganzi (3) & Nic Roldan (8)

Druids Lodge

Polo

Club

Congratulations Core Polo, winners of the 4 goal Harvest Cup. Congratulations to Parkgate Polo who beat Zorro in The Salisbury Cup Final, James Hopkins received the Most Valuable Player Award sponsored by Hendy Group.

Los Amigos Red, winners of The Basalt Handicap Los Amigos Red, winners of The Emma Challenge Cup Mountain Chevrolet, winners of The High Alpine Cup

Photography by Nick Tininenko

Photograph by John Rowley

Sunbrave Polo, winners of The Chandigarh Cup

Photography by DLPC

Core Polo, winners of the 4 goal Harvest Cup

The Salisbury Cup Final Teams

Cambridge & Newmarket Polo Club

On Saturday 27 July, Cambridge and Newmarket Polo Club held a charity event dedicated entirely to raising funds to support the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA).

The EAAA provides life saving critical care 24 hours a day 365 days a year and

Hamptons

Polo Club

After four weeks of competition, Go Guri and Equuleus reached the Final of the General George S. Patton Jr. Cup.

The first half showcased a fierce duel between the top scorers: Go Guri’s Merlos and Equuleus’ Gonzalez Sr., who contributed all the goals. Gonzalez Sr. demonstrated his precision with four penalty conversions, equalled by Merlos. Additionally, Merlos’ prowess from the field, scoring three goals, gave Go Guri a 5-4 lead at half-time.

Go Guri maintained consistent scoring throughout the second half, netting two goals in all but one chukka. In the fourth, Gonzalez Sr. levelled the score at 5-5 with his fourth Penalty 2 conversion. However, Merlos and Villamil’s efforts soon restored Go Guri’s lead. The fifth chukka saw Pepa and Tagliaferro spearhead Equuleus’ resurgence with three goals. Despite the contributions from Evans

receives no regular government funding and relies entirely on donations to keep its two helicopters flying.

The day revolved around three polo games culminating in a 12 goal match between a team representing the EAAA and Clarehaven Stud from Newmarket.

and Merlos in the sixth chukka, Equuleus’ wellcoordinated attack, featuring three goals by Pepa and a field goal from Rodriguez, secured a narrow 12-11 victory.

The General George S. Patton Jr. Cup Final Teams:

Equuleus: Hugo Tagliaferro, Martin Pepa, Mariano Gonzalez Sr., Joseph Dimenna & sub. Martin Rodriguez

Go Guri: Daniella Gotlib, Juan Gimenez Villamil, Sebastian Merlos & Quinn Evans

Beaufort Polo Club

On Saturday 13 July, The Novices Cup was won by Ruton who defeated Soanza/Smiths 6-5, while the Subsidiary Final was won by R&R who beat Kencot Cavaliers 7-3.

On Saturday 20 July, Soanza secured

The La Ema Polo Mallet 8 goal with a 4-2 win against CANI on HMA Tax No1 ground. The Subsidiary Final saw Beaufort Smiths beat Beaufort Senzaltro 5-2.

As well as these fast action polo matches spectators were entertained by other equestrian disciplines including a dressage display from Bubby Upton and a team of riders on their Lusitano horses, dressed in traditional Portuguese riding dress. The day drew to a close with a CNPC Academy junior polo match and a game of Roda Polo, where the skillset between young and old was very evident!

EAAA Charity Event 12 Goal Match Teams: East Anglian Air Ambulance (12): Alan Fall (1), Charlie Townsend (2), Pedro Harrison (5) & Michael Ayala (4) Clarehaven Stud (12): Andrew Burke (0), Fabio Lavinia (3), Paco Odwyer (6) & Ross Ainsley (3)

Saint Tropez Polo Club

The Ambassadors Cup featured 10 teams competing over 12 days.

Battistoni (Allegra Barnaba, Alessandro Barnaba, Juan Jauretche and Pierre Jauretche) emerged victorious in The Ambassadors Cup at Polo Club Saint Tropez, defeating Bien Mirada 7½-6 in the Final.

Juan Jauretche was named Most Valuable Player, JM Bosnia received the AACCP Best Registered Player Product Award, and Schweppes received the Best Playing Pony Award.

La Aguada Polo Club

The Novillo Astrada’s family Club in Argentina have announced their upcoming Spring 2024 Season dates which will be played October through December: 7 – 15 October: XV Ladies Cup LGS AAP Ladies Grand Series Stage 1 5 – 14 November: XV Spring Cup (14 goal) 11 – 15 November: Julio Novillo Astrada Cup (22 goal) 30 November – 6 December: IV International Trophy

Event rider Bubby Upton gave a dressage display on her 5* star horse Its Cooley Time

The EAAA Charity Event 12 Goal Match Teams

2024 National General George S. Patton Jr. Cup winners, Equuleus (Martin Rodriguez, Hugo Taliaferro, Martin Pepa & Mariano Gonzalez Sr)

Photograph by ©Agustina Lacroze

Photograph by STPC

Battistoni, winners of The Ambassadors Cup

Ruton, winners of The Novice Cup

Soanza, winners of The La Ema Polo Mallet

Photography by BPC

Binfield Heath Polo Club

Small but mighty

Binfield Heath Polo Club was founded in 1994 by a small group of Members with the aim of fostering high quality low goal polo for Members and visitors alike while also offering a friendly introduction to polo for beginners. With two fully irrigated grounds, a busy fixture list throughout the season and lessons also available, the Club has stayed true to its origins, “We are a very small Club we don’t have a fancy Clubhouse but what we do have is two beautiful well irrigated grounds which we are very proud of. It makes for fast excellent playing. That is why teams from all over come to play.”

Club Address: Binfield Heath Polo Club, Polo Ground, Gravel Road, Binfield Heath, RG9 4LY

Polo Manager Name & Contact: Pedro De Lamare (bhpcmanager@gmail.com)

Club Stats

Facilities

Clubhouse No

Pony Hire (+ number of ponies available) No

Wooden Horse No

Coaches/Instructors No

Livery Yes

Exercise Track Yes

Indoor School No

Stables to Hire Yes

Turn out Fields Yes

Arena Yes

Grooms’ Accommodation No

Number of Members 35

Number of Grounds Two

What year was the Club founded & by who?

Binfield Heath Polo Club was founded in 1994 by a core of Members who had previously played at Checkendon Park Polo Club, founded two years earlier by Toby Greenbury and Lord Francis Phillimore. The Club is based at Lord Phillimore’s grounds in Binfield Heath which is between Henleyon-Thames and Reading. Full affiliation was granted to the Club by the HPA in 1996.

Any highlights for 2024 season?

Highlights for the Club are the two Victor Ludorum tournaments, The BHPC 4 Goal Super League (to read more about Wildcats/ Arslie’s win in this year’s tournament, visit the Victor Ludorum pages in the July 2024 issue of Polo Times) and the 6 goal Phillimore

Trophy Victor Ludorum. The Charity Polo Festival for the Air Ambulance is another highlight of the calendar at Binfield Heath Polo Club.

What are the Club’s plans for the future? Our aim is to provide the best possible playing surface for fun fast competitive polo on two beautiful fully irrigated grounds. we have 35 Members.

Does the Club specialise in a certain area of polo?

The Club caters for all levels from 0 to 6 goal and there is a big focus on the two Victor Ludorum tournaments, the 4 and 6 goal. It’s a small group of Members but they are all here to have fun in a very relaxed and friendly environment.

Hookum/Winkfield, winners of The 2023 6 goal Phillimore Trophy Victor Ludorum Final

Photography courtesy of BHPC

Wildcats/Arslie, winners of The 2024 BHPC VL Super League Final

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Milly Hine, Best Young Player of the Year

After The Coronation Cup at Guards Polo Club, Milly Hine was presented with The Ferguson Trophy by Nicholas ColquhounDenvers, former Chairman of the HPA and past president of the FIP, as the HPA’s Best Young Player of the Year. Not only is Milly is the first lady player since 2004 to win this award, but she follows in the footsteps of both her father Andrew, and brother Ned, who also won this coveted trophy in 1989 and 2022 respectively.

The Ferguson Trophy winner is chosen by the HPA’s Development & Coaching Committee, recognising outstanding achievements in both international matches

and HPA tournaments. The selection criteria also consider performance, potential, and conduct both on and off the field. In addition to the honour, the winner receives a £500 bursary from the HPA.

Currently ranked number four in the world in women’s polo, Milly has had a remarkable 2024 season, securing victories for England in The Buckmaster and Diamond Jubilee, as well as triumphing in The US Women’s Open and The Guards Ladies High Goal tournaments. These accomplishments add to her already impressive list of titles, including The 2023 Argentine Women’s Open and The 2022 British Ladies Open.

The Potrillos Cup

On Thursday 15 August, junior players from Yorkshire, Rutland and Nottingham gathered at Toulston Polo Club for The Potrillos Cup, hosted by Bramham Polo Academy. The beginners played first, with the youngest, Hudson Meikle, making his tournament debut at 6 years old.

Hudson, Amelie, Illiah, and Kuba faced Team Tulula (Fede, Henry, Zoe, and Nel) in their first competitive chukkas. Zoe Meikle impressed, taking the ball up and down the pitch. Team Tulula won 4-1, with Hudson named Most Valuable Player.

Next, the advanced juniors played a competitive match. Julia’s Angels (Santiago Funes, Fede Gomez, Alex Foster, and Jasmine Speed) faced Lolita’s Squad (Konrad Blake, Lincoln Bentley Smith, Caleb Meikle, and Fred Leyland). Lolita’s Squad led 3-0 in the first chukka, but Julia’s Angels rallied to win 5-2, with Alex earning Most Valuable Player.

Milly Hine, recipient of The Ferguson Trophy

Photograph by EKS Images

Julia’s Angels, winners of the advanced juniors match Team Tulula, winners of the lower juniors match

Photography by EKS Images

The Potrillos Cup teams at Toulston Polo Club

Youth All Aspects of Youth Polo

The Whitbread Trophy was donated to the Hurlingham Polo Association in 1956 by Colonel Bill Whitbread, on behalf of the Colonel Whitbread Trust. It has been played as a Young England fixture since 2007, and this year saw the highest handicap level that has been played for the Trophy despite the youthfulness of the two teams whose ages ranged from 25-years-old to 17-years-old.

Young England began The Whitbread Trophy with a half goal handicap advantage, something which would prove crucial in the closing minute of the match.

The Hine brothers kicked off the goal scoring for Young England with Ned Hine plucking the ball out of the line-up and passing it to his younger brother Louis Hine who scorched to goal to claim the first goal of the 2024 Whitbread Trophy. A 30 yard penalty in favour of Argentina was confidently slotted through the posts by Felipe Dabas, 1½-1. The crowds were treated to fluid end-to-end play but strong marking from both sides limited the ball finding its way into goal. Tommy Severn took advantage of a quick shout of “play” from the umpires while most of the Young Argentine players were still changing ponies, to take the ball from the back line and sent it up to a waiting Will Harper who easily ran to goal unopposed at the Argentine side. A melee in front of the goalmouth went in favour of Young Argentina and a 30 yard penalty was successfully converted by Lucas Criado to bring the score up to 2½-2.

The second chukka began with a penalty in favour of Young England, but strong defence from Young Argentina thwarted Louis Hine’s run to goal, however excellent team work just moments later saw Louis Hine score his second goal of the match to give Young England some breathing space, 3½-2. A lovely, lofted spot hit from Severn found its way to Ned Hine on the halfway line and he raced to goal on a rapid pony, to score his first goal of the match, 4½-2. Young Argentina fought back with a strong attack on goal, thwarted by Young England defence but a penalty 2 in favour of Criado gave Young Argentina’s third goal, all from penalties, 4½-3.

The third chukka began under the sunny skies of Guards Polo Club with both teams displaying excellent, fast-flowing polo on a superb ground. Chulo Guerrero opened the chukka with an attack on goal but Severn scooped the ball out of the goal mouth, saving what looked like a certain goal. The resulting safety 60 hit was taken by Criado which went high in the sky and straight down the middle to narrow the gap down to just half a goal once more, 4½-4. Young Argentina turned the ball in front of an oncoming Will Harper and the whistle went in favour of Young England with a 30 yard hit which was converted by Severn, 5½-4, and swiftly followed by another successfully converted penalty to extend the lead to 6½-4. Young Argentina found themselves chasing the scoreline once again as the minutes ticked down in the third chukka, Criado responded with a beautiful under-the-neck-shot goal under pressure from Harper 6½-5. Despite the

efforts of both young teams, the scoreline remained the same as the match entered the half-time phase.

The second half began with a penalty 2 leftover from the previous chukka, which was coolly scored by Severn to bolster the Young England scoreline to 7½-5 in the first 15 seconds; but a successful penalty from Criado opened the Young Argentina scoring in the second half 7½-6. Back and forth play between the two teams showcased the skill and pony power on display in this year’s Whitbread Trophy between the two young teams. Harper scored again to regain the two and a half goal lead for Young England despite persistent and solid defence from their opponents – possession was the name of the game in this match. The intensity increased and resulted in end to end action, much to the delight of the spectators. A penalty 2 for Young Argentina was cooly taken by Criado to reduce the gap again to just one and half goals going into the fifth chukka, 8½-7.

Both teams came out with fresh determination for the final chukka, which resulted in a flurry of goals from both sides. Young Argentina managed to get ahead for the first time in the match 9½-10 with just two minutes of play left. However Young England were not done on their goal scoring mission just yet and excellent teamwork between them saw every player pass the ball further up the ground, where it found the stick of Severn who coolly carried the ball forward to score the winning neck shot of the match, 10½-10.

Chukka scores: 2½-2, 4½-3, 6½-5, 8½-7, 10½-10

Young England (L-R: Tommy Severn, Ned Hine, Will Harper & Louis Hine with Serena and Henry Whitbread), winners of The Whitbread Trophy

Young England (19)

Tommy Severn (5)

Louis Hine (5)

Ned Hine (5)

Will Harper (4)

Young Argentina (20)

Tommy Ballesteros (2)

Lucas Criado (6)

Javier ‘Chulo’ Guerrero (6)

Felipe Dabas (6)

The Whitbread Trophy Teams

Photography by Art of Polo

Last-Minute Win for

England

The Whitbread Trophy

Where: Guards Polo Club, Windsor

Tommy Severn

Lovelocks Glowworm played by Tommy Severn RoR BPP: Secret Applause, played by Ned Hine

Louis Hine goes in for the hook against Young Argentina

The 2024

Pony Club Polo Championships

Supported by Polo Times

Polo Times has always championed grass roots polo, so sponsoring The Pony Club Polo Championships was the next step in our support of the vibrant youth polo circuit that the Pony Club provides. This year Polo Times provided prizes for all competitors, subscription discounts and Polo Times  t-shirts for the winning players from each Division.

Nick Hine, Publisher of Polo Times commented, “Going into Polo Times’ 30th year of being the leading polo publication, we were delighted to sponsor Pony Club Polo and proud to be supporting the next generation of polo players. Having competed in the Pony Club myself I fondly remember the camaraderie of the Championships at Cowdray Park and although much has changed since then,

(including no more parties in the Cowdray Ruins!) it is a vital route for young players to hone their skills. Each month, our Knowledge pages include helpful tips for players on equine nutrition, player mental health awareness and injury prevention, which are an invaluable resource for up-and-coming players, so Polo Times and the Pony Club are a great fit and we were delighted to provide our support.”

Chairman’s Report

Pony Club Polo Chairman, Brigadier (Retd.) Justin Stanhope-White, introduces the

I am delighted to introduce the reports and results of the 2024 Pony Club Polo Championships, which was kindly supported by Polo Times over 9 – 11 August. Cowdray Park Polo Club and the Cowdray Estate is such a magical place for the children to play polo and to camp with their ponies and friends. The friendships forged at Cowdray and within the Pony Club, will in many instances, remain for life and it was wonderful to see children playing whose parents remember the experiences whilst playing at Cowdray. It is certainly an exciting time for Pony Club Polo.

I must thank Cowdray Park Polo Club and Cowdray Estate for permitting us to continue to hold the Championships at the Club. Indeed, our thanks must be extended to all the Clubs that have hosted the Qualifiers, Friendlies, and training events to prepare the children and their ponies for the Championships; it paid dividends as the standard at the Championships was of a high level. I would also like to acknowledge the hugely important financial assistance we receive from The Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) and Park Place, to enable us to support our Pony Club players. This year our numbers have increased again with 248 children entering in 62 different teams, including 7 Hipwood teams and 4 Rocksavage teams.

I have been very impressed by the continued development of the children, at all levels. This has been in part achieved by the coherent approach in place from the HPA Development Committee and the generous support provided by The Polo Charity and the Martin Treves grant scheme. The training events organised by the Areas, Branches and Centres, using HPA Registered Coaches, have proved popular and are at the foundation of our approach to improving Pony Club Polo and supporting the grass roots development of the sport.

Pony Club Polo is only possible because of the huge support it receives from organisations and individuals who kindly assist us through donations or volunteering. Quite simply without their dedication and steadfast support the Pony Club Polo season with training, Friendlies, Qualifiers, and the Championships, would not happen.

As you read the reports I would also like to thank and acknowledge the Branch Managers, Section Managers, and the Polo Committee for their impressive work this year; we are so fortunate to have them.

2024 Pony Club Polo Championships

Photography by HW Photography

The 2024 Pony Club Polo Championship Parade

Smiles, sunshine & ice cream – who could ask for more at The Pony Club Championships?

Youth The 2024 Pony Club Polo Championships

Gannon

Handicap limit: Minimum handicap of 0 goals, no maximum

Player age limit: Under 21-years-old on 1 January of the current year

Height limit of pony: No restriction

Type of pony: Polo ponies

Section Manager: Justin Stanhope-White

Brigadier (Retd.) Justin Stanhope-White, Gannon Section Manager, reviews this year’s Final:

This year four teams entered Gannon: Beaufort Hunt, Cowdray Hunt, Cambridge and Newmarket Polo Academy and South Oxfordshire Hunt South.

The Semi Finals were played on Lawns 3 on Friday afternoon at the Championships at Cowdray, with Cowdray beating South Oxfordshire Hunt South by 7 goals to 5, and Beaufort narrowly defeating Cambridge and Newmarket PA, 3 goals to 2½.

The Gannon Subsidiary Final for The Jaguar Trophy was played on Lawns 2 on Sunday between South Oxfordshire Hunt South and Cambridge and Newmarket PA. It was an extremely close game with Mattie Maldonado scoring in chukkas 1 and 2 and Hector Rogberg converting two goals in the third. Coming out for the fourth chukka, Cambridge and Newmarket were on fire with Noah Hyde scoring three goals, well

the scores at 4-4½, but despite both sides having near misses in the final seconds, South Oxfordshire Hunt South came out winners, 4-4½.

The Gannon Final was played on Lawns 2 after the Parade and saw Cowdray pitted against Beaufort and attempting to lift The Daily Telegraph Trophy for a fourth year in succession. These two 4 goal teams came out fighting with an early lead from a 60 yard penalty by Capser Budd going to Beaufort. This was quickly followed up by a second goal by Casper from open play, before Cowdray responded with a driving goal from Rufus Uloth. Beaufort increased their lead to 4-1 in the second chukka with a great solo run by Teo Zevaoglu and a fine team goal finished by Robbie Slatter. Just before the end of the chukka Will Millard scored from a

At the start of the third chukka, Robbie Slatter scored from a spot hit giving Beaufort a 5-2 lead before Cowdray ignited the touchpaper and exploded into life. With some fast ponies and dominant team play Cowdray drew level through two 30 yd penalties from Will Millard and an outstanding individual effort from Rufus Uloth, 5-5 going into the decisive fourth chukka. Beaufort soon had the advantage with a great individual effort from Teo before Will Millard converted another 30 yd penalty, 6-6. From here on Cowdray poured on the pressure with two more converted 30 yd penalties from Will. Finn Jones added his name to the score sheet with a huge neck shot to seal the game, with Cowdray running out the Gannon Winners for a fourth year in a row, 9-6.

Gannon winners, Cowdray Hunt, with The Daily Telegraph Trophy

The Ledner Cup for the Highest Placed Complete Branch Team, Beaufort (Gannon)

Action from the Gannon on Sunday 11 August

Langford

Handicap limit: Qualifying handicap of -2 goals

Player age limit: Under 21-years-old on 1 January of the current year

Height limit of pony: No restriction

Type of pony: Polo ponies

Section Manager: Bethan Hitchman

Bethan Hitchman, Section Manager for Langford looks back at the results:

With three Langford teams this year, plus some subs, we only ran 1 Division and the Langford League Trophy was decided from the Qualifiers where we saw a high standard of play and some unexpected results. Having had a very indifferent summer, weather wise, it was difficult to know how the grounds would play, some very wet days but then spells of dry weather made us very grateful for the standard of all the grounds at the clubs that we played at.

The Langford teams, once again, came from far and wide, from all corners of the country, and we were very grateful for their support. With the usual unexpected injuries and unavoidable commitments, we were very lucky to have some players who made themselves available to sub when necessary so that the league could be concluded. As always, the unsung heroes in Pony Club Polo

Loriner/ Rendell

Handicap limit: 0

Player age limit: 14-years-old and over on 1 January

Height limit of pony: No restriction

Type of pony: Polo ponies

Section Manager: Philippa Slatter

Philippa Slatter, the Loriner Section Manager reviews the Section’s season: The season started with some Loriner games at the Beaufort and Oxford Friendlies, but the main action began at the Black Bears Qualifier. Eight teams entered this summer’s competition: Beaufort, Cambridge, Cotswold Green, Cotswold Red, Hampshire Hunt, Old Berks, South Dorset, and West Hants Pony Clubs. Going into the season, there was no obvious way to split the teams into two divisions, so we ran a league over the course of the Qualifiers. The top teams were very evenly matched, culminating in Beaufort and Cotswold Red playing off for the top spot in the League at the Longdole Qualifier. Unfortunately, the arrival of one of the summer’s heaviest rainstorms led to the abandonment of the

The 2024 Pony Club Polo Championships

are the Branch/Team Managers and parents and they worked tirelessly to make sure the children had full teams and lots of polo.

The Langford League went right to the wire with SOHS running out the winners of The Langford Plate again. They were a very disciplined, well mounted team who improved over the three days of competition and it was good to see such a thoroughly deserved result. The boys played well as a team, captained with great maturity and ability by Hector Rogberg and supported admirably by his team mates, parents and coaches.

At Cowdray, all three teams played each other each day resulting in a last match for each team on the iconic Lawns 2 for The Jack Gannon Trophy. All the teams provided great entertainment with fast, slick polo with a win for the SOHS, closely followed by the Cotswold and the Hampshire Hunt.

Individual honours this year were numerous in Langford. Felix McKenzie deservedly won The Andrew Older Memorial trophy for the Most Promising Langford Player. Hector Rogberg was the popular recipient of the SATS saddle as Player of the Year. Kindly donated by SATS, this saddle was given to Hector for his impressive allround ability and for being a superb team player and supporter of Pony Club Polo. Hector McPherson’s lovely pony, Desert

second chukka, meaning Beaufort emerged as the winners after their 1-0 victory in the first chukka. The team was awarded The Bank of Ireland Trophy at Cowdray.

With the slate wiped clean, everything was to play for at Cowdray, where we organised the tournament so that the teams were divided into two Divisions on Sunday. It was hard to predict the outcome in both Divisions, with the teams so evenly matched. The competition was so close that most of the placings had to be decided in the traditional Pony Club way –with a run-down!

After a slow start, Hampshire Hunt improved with each game, ultimately facing the League winners, Beaufort, in the Final of Division 1. The exciting chukka was held in front of the crowds on Lawns 2. It was a hardfought game, but the Hampshire Hunt team – comprising of brothers Albert and Bart Bell, Olivia Allen, and Cosmo Thome – prevailed to win The Loriner Challenge Trophy, which was presented by Master Loriner George Anderson.

In Division 2, there was nothing to separate the South Dorset and West Hants teams, but

Train was the recipient of the Langford ROR prize. There are too many ‘thank yous’ to mention everybody but you know who you are and I am so grateful for all the time and effort that everybody puts in to make Langford happen!

the South Dorset team of Rupert Cunningham Day, Lily Frampton, Arthur Wade, and Oscar Fuery managed to get their ball across the line first in the deciding run-down to win The Hillingdon Hall Cup.

Having started the season as newcomers, the all-female Cambridge team’s confidence increased throughout the season; their strong defence often disarmed their opposition, and the ultimate test of their teamwork was shown with their victory in their final run-down. Isabella Twigg was the well-deserved winner of The Sylvia Shepherd Trophy.

Perhaps the reason some teams didn’t achieve the results they had anticipated was because they had too much fun at the famous Cowdray party! Having said that, we were all impressed with how the standard of polo of all 32 players improved throughout the Qualifiers and The Championship. What really stood out, though, was the great teamwork, sportsmanship, and fair play displayed by everyone. Qualities that set a fantastic example for Pony Club Polo. A big congratulations to all the players for their hard work and achievements.

Action from the Langford Division

Langford winners, South Oxfordshire Hunt South with The jack Gannon Trophy

Loriner Division 1 winners, Hampshire Hunt with The Loriner Challenge Trophy

Loriner Division 2 winners, South Dorset with The Hillingdon Hall Trophy

The Loriner League winners, Beaufort with The Gig Horsewell Trophy

Youth The 2024 Pony Club Polo Championships

Player age limit: Under 15-years-old on 1 January of the current year

Height limit of pony: No restriction

Type of pony: Polo ponies

Section Manager: Jo Whittington

Surtees Section Manager, Jo Whittington, reviews the Section results: 2024 saw a large increase in numbers of children taking part in Surtees. Up to eight teams from 2023. How wonderful to see so many children from a lot of different Pony Club branches enjoying Pony Club Polo.

A few teams, and individuals making up teams, Vaux Park,  Oxford Polo Club and Tedworth Polo Club, managed to get to the very enjoyable Friendlies, and our grateful thanks go to Beaufort Polo Club in May half term.

The Qualifiers then started with Black Bears. Three divisions with six teams in Division 1, saw Cowdray Orange beat the Beaufort Blue in the Final; the Cowdray Black beat the Cotswold Red in an eight team Division 2; and Division 3a was won by the Hampshire Hunt, with the Cowdray White victorious in Division 3b. The Cowdray had a clean sweep with their teams!

Cirencester Park was the next Qualifier with a few teams going up or down. Division 1

Handley Cross

Player age limit: 9-years-old and over, but under 14 on 1 January of the current year

Height limit of pony: 14.2hh

Type of pony: No polo ponies allowed, should be all-round Pony Club ponies which have attended rallies

Section Manager: Chris Eaton

Chris Eaton, the Handley Cross Section Manager reflects on the Section’s success:

This year at Cowdray we had three Handley Cross teams, Beaufort with Bertie Wood, Annalisa Tomlinson, Everlyn Brown and Devon Turner Clark; Cotswold Green with Fredrick Jackson, Elizabeth Clarkin, Ava Waldron-Knight and Killian Ansley; Cotswold

became eight: the Cowdray Black and Cotswold Red earning their places there, Division 2 had six teams, and 3a and 3b was mixed up so they played different teams. This time the Cowdray Orange won again, but after an exciting Pony Club run-down with the Cotswold Green! The Beaufort White, a group of talented young cousins, won Division 2, beating the Hertfordshire Polo Academy in the Final. The Hampshire Hunt won 3a and the Cowdray White 3b.

It was clear there were three serious contenders for the top slot in Division 1 at Cowdray Park, with five more knocking at the door!

However Longdole came first, and after all eight played in Division 1 again, the Finals were won by Cotswold Green this time beating the Beaufort Blue. The Beaufort White had a clean sweep to win against all the other teams in Division 2. After winning Division 3 the Beaufort Buff were heading back up to Division 2, along with the HH. The Berkeley team were victorious in Division 4.

And so to the Championships at Cowdray Park, 4 Divisions all fighting for the top spots and three days of intense matches! A wonderful weekend though and thoroughly enjoyed by all.

But really well done to the Cotswold Green who played superbly well to overcome the young Cowdray Orange team 2-0 in the Final

Red with Melba Fox, Jack Fox, Lola Lucas, and Taylor Coddington. All teams played exciting matches at the Qualifiers.

The three teams continued to play at Cowdray on Friday and Saturday, unfortunately Everlyn had a fall on Friday so the Beaufort team continued playing heroically with three players and the Beaufort and the Cotswold Green team ended up on Sunday playing in the Finals on Lawns 3, with Arabella McCartney kindly filling in on Tiso to make up the Beaufort team.

The Cotswold Green team ended up the winners narrowly beating the Beaufort.

The Jambo Trophy for the best polo/ hunting pony went to Luca ridden by Elizabeth Clarkin and the Polo Times Best Playing Pony Rug was awarded to Tally ridden by Annalisa Tomlinson.

on Lawns 2 on the Sunday in front of a large, cheering crowd. Oxford Polo played really well over the weekend to win their play off against the Beaufort Blue for third and fourth. The RA White ran out the winners of the plate, beating the Cotswold Red.

Well done to the young Beaufort Blue team, after one or two more slightly nail-biting finishes they reigned supreme in Division 2, a team going places, with the Cotswold Yellow second.

Division 3 was won by another young team, the Hampshire Hunt, beating the Cotswold White into second.

Division 4 saw the Beaufort Gold beat the West Hants for first and second.

Huge congratulations to all of the teams!

Handley Cross winners, Cotswold Green with The Handley Cross Cup

Surtees Division 1 winners, Cotswold Green with The Cooper Cup

Surtees Division 2 winners, Beaufort White with The Surtees II Trophy

Surtees Division 3 winners, HH

Surtees Division 4 winners, Beaufort Gold

Well done to all Handley Cross players.

The 2024 Pony Club Polo Championships Youth

Jorrocks

Player age limit: 11-years-old and under Height limit of pony: 13.2hh

Type of pony: No polo ponies allowed, should be all-round Pony Club ponies which have attended rallies

Section Manager: Chris Eaton

Chris Eaton reviews this year’s Jorrocks results:

The Jorrocks Section this year was for players under 11 on Pony Club ponies under 13.2hh. We had five teams competing this year, which were divided into two Divisions, Division 1: Cotswold with Leo Vestey, Cece Armitage-Lyon, Patrick Clarkin and Miles Ernshaw; Hampshire Hunt with Alice Cogan, Flora Darwin, Rex Millington and Wilfred Tomlinson; Royal Artillery with Olivia Floyd, Wilbur Behrens, Felix Frith and William Whittington.

Division 2: Cowdray with Koji CalvertAnsari, Eliza Clague, Emilia Hotston and Max Hotston and Oxford Polo with Florence Ashby, Molly Adams, Ben Skarda and Lara Ashby.

Section Manager: Jenny Blake Thomas Jorrocks on Polo Ponies

Player age limit: 11-years-old and under

Height limit of pony: No restriction

Type of pony: Polo pony under control!

Jenny Blake-Thomas reviews this year’s Jorrocks on Polo Ponies Section (JOPPS) results:

This year, we again had seven teams competing in the JOPPS section, divided into two Divisions.

Division 2 was between four teams playing a total of two chukkas against each other during Friday and Saturday morning which gave placings of first to fourth. On Saturday afternoon, the teams placed third and fouth played a final chukka as did those placed first and second in the division. The final results were; fourth Cotswold, third Oxford Polo, second Berkeley (Iris Slowley, Harriet Rowe, Imogen Millington and Bridget

The teams all played each other in exciting matches, improving as they went through the Qualifiers, for many of them it was their first year playing polo.

The three Division 1 teams played at Cowdray for The Jorrocks Cup, with the Royal Artillery running out the winners.

Division 2 played each other for The Pardy Cup with the Cowdray running out the winners.

The Rupert Thorneloe Trophy for the most improved boy was awarded to Felix Frith OS&B, playing for the RA.

Doyle) and first Cowdray Hunt team (Felix Brockett, Harry Flanagan, Alwynne Skippen and Max Verdon) who were presented with The Henderson Trophy.

Division I was played in a similar way to Division II with three teams playing in an American Tournament for Friday and Saturday morning. The teams were Beaufort Hunt, Hampshire Hunt and Hertfordshire Polo Academy. It was a very close contest and all three teams ended up with two points each with the final placings going down to goal difference which gave the first and second slots to Beaufort Hunt and Hampshire Hunt. On Saturday afternoon these teams played an exciting Final which had no score, so the result had to be decided by a run-down with Hampshire Hunt emerging as the winners. Playing for Hampshire Hunt were Flora Darwin, Lucas Wilson Smith, Oscar Wilson Smith and Felix Darwin and they were presented with The

The Jorrocks Cup for most improved girl was awarded to Ceci Armitage-Lyons.

The hand stick for the most promising first year player was awarded to Wilbur Behrens of the RA.

The Texaco Trophy for turnout was awarded to the Oxford Polo team.

The Tic Tac trophy for best player pony combination was awarded to Max ridden by Miles Earnshaw.

Well done to all Jorrocks players, we look forward to seeing you all next year.

Frank Rendell Cup.

Beaufort Hunt players were Joey Skarda, Arabella McCartney, Evelyn Brown/Rufus Tomlinson and Oscar Ljungman.

Hertfordshire Polo Academy team players were Sophia-Marie Palmer, Millie DrummondLines, Felix Frith and William Whittington.

We were very grateful for two new JOPPS awards this year. The Claire Tomlinson Trophy for the Most Promising JOPPS player was presented on behalf of the Tomlinson family by Mark Tomlinson to Oscar Wilson Smith from the Hampshire Hunt. The Eastwood family also kindly donated a trophy for the Most Improved JOPPS Player and this was presented by Aurora Eastwood to Joey Skarda of the Beaufort Hunt team.

The Polo Times Best playing JOPPS pony award was presented to William Whittington in the Hertfordshire Polo Academy team for his pony Luigi.

Cowdray, winners of Jorrocks Division 2 with The Pardy Cup RA, winners of Jorrocks Division 1 with The Jorrocks One Cup

Cowdray, winners of JOPPS Division 2 with The Henderson Plate

HH, winners of JOPPS Division 1 with The Frank Rendell Cup

Youth The 2024 Pony

Hipwood & Rocksavage

Caroline Grayson reviews this year’s Hipwood results:

The children this year were incredibly lucky to be able to play their matches at a mixture of clubs – Cirencester, Black Bears, Guards and Cowdray.

For the first time the Hipwood tournament was split into two Divisions.

The Emerson Trophy was played for by three teams with children on a -2 handicap. Hampshire Hunt ran out the winners.

The Smail Trophy was played for by four teams and proved to be a hotly contested tournament with Cowdray Lions running out the winners.

Rocksavage had four teams after not running in 2023. The level of polo was excellent and the Old Surrey & Burstow team ran out the winners. Three of OS&B team members started playing polo together in Jorrocks.

Individual Awards

Hampshire Hunt, winners of The Emerson Trophy

Cowdray Lions, winners of The Smail trophy

Old Surrey & Burstow, winners of Rocksavage

Branch Manager of The Year –Georgie Daly (Berkeley)

The Sheila Nash Rose Bowl: For the Most Promising Surtees Girl – Lottie Burrows (Beaufort)

The Lisa Llewellyn-Palmer Trophy: For Outstanding Horsemanship –Iona Ahmed (Cambridgeshire)

The Sylvia Shepherd Trophy: For the Most Promising Loriner Girl –Isabella Twigg (Cambridgeshire)

The Young Telegraph Award: For the Most promising under 15/14 –Maxime Clarkin (Cotswold)

The Andrew Older Memorial Trophy: For the Most Promising Langford Player – Felix Mckenzie (South Oxfordshire Hunt South)

Surtees was played over an impressive four Divisions this year

The 2024 Pony Club Polo Championships Youth

Pony Awards

The Tic Tac Trophy for The Jorrocks Player/Pony Combination – Max & Miles Earnshaw Loriner RoR – See You In Rio, played by Rosie TalbotRice (West Hants)

Gannon RoR – Iconic Code, played by Hector Rogberg (SOHS)

Langford RoR – Desert Train, played by Hector McPherson (Cotswold)

Surtees RoR – Everyonelovesagrey, played by Freddie Leyland (Oxford Polo)

To read more about the Polo Times Pony Club Polo Championships 2024 Best Playing Ponies, please turn to the Pony Power pages.

The Catherine Yates: For the Most Promising Rendell / Langford / Gannon Girl – Bella Lavinia (Cambridge & Newmarket Polo Academy)

The Hand Stick: For the Most Promising First Year Jorrocks player – Wilbur Behrens (RA)

The Rupert Thorneloe Memorial: For the Most Improved 10 year old Jorrocks Boy – Felix Frith (OS&B playing for the RA)

The Jorrocks Cup: For the Most Improved Jorrocks Girl – Ceci Armitage-Lyon (Cotswold)

SATS Saddle: For the Pony Club Player of the Year – Hector Rogberg (Heythrop Hunt)

The Claire Tomlinson Trophy: For the Most Promising JOPPS Player –Oscar Wilson-Smith (HH)

The Eastwood Trophy: For the Most Improved JOPPS Player – Joey Skarda (Beaufort)

The Polo Times Best Playing Pony Handley Cross – Tally, played by Annalisa Tomlinson (Beaufort Blue)

The Punk Trophy for Polo Times Best Jorrocks Pony –Sesame, played by Ceci Armitage Lyon (Cotswold)

The Best Playing Pony JOPPS – Luigi played by William Whittington (RA)

The Polo Times Best Playing Pony Gannon – Red, played by Will Millard (Cowdray)

The Jambo Trophy for the Best Hunting & HX Polo Pony/ Player Combination – Lupa, played by Elizabeth Clarkin (Cotswold Green)

Polo Championship Results 2024

Gannon

The Daily Telegraph Trophy (Gannon I) 1st Cowdray 2nd Beaufort

The Jaguar Trophy (Gannon II)

1st South Oxfordshire Hunt South 2nd Cambridge & Newmarket Polo Academy

Langford

The Jack Gannon Trophy (Langford I)

1st South Oxfordshire Hunt South 2nd Cotswold 3rd HH

The Langford Plate (Winner of Langford League at Qualifiers) South Oxfordshire Hunt South

Loriner

The 2024 Pony Club Polo Championships Youth

The Loriner Challenge Trophy (Loriner I)

1st Hampshire Hunt

2nd Beaufort

3rd OBH 4th Cotswold Red

The Hillingdon Hall Trophy (Loriner II) 1st South Dorset

2nd West Hants

3rd Cambridgeshire 4th Cotswold Green

The Gig Horsewell Trophy (Loriner League) Beaufort

Surtees

The Cooper Cup (Surtees I)

1st Cotswold Green

2nd Cowdray Orange

3rd Oxford Polo

4th Beaufort Blue

The Whittington Plate (Surtees I) 1st RA White

2nd Cotswold Red 3rd South Dorset 4th Cowdray Black

The Surtees II Trophy (Surtees II) 1st Beaufort White 2nd Cotswold Yellow

3rd Hertfordshire Polo Academy 4th Cambridge & Newmarket Polo Academy

5th Beaufort Buff

Surtees Division III 1st HH

2nd Cotswold White 3rd Cowdray White 4th Berkeley 5th Cotswold Gold

Surtees Division IV

1st Beaufort Gold

2nd West Hants

3rd RA Maroon

4th Minchinhampton

Handley Cross

The Handley Cross Cup 1st Cotswold Green

2nd Beaufort Blue

3rd Cotswold Red

Jorrocks & JOPPS

The Jorrocks One Cup (Jorrocks I)

1st RA

2nd HH

3rd Cotswold

The Pardy Cup (Jorrocks II) 1st Cowdray 2nd Oxford Polo

The Frank Rendell Cup (JOPPS I) 1st HH

2nd Beaufort

3rd Herts Polo Academy

The Henderson Plate (JOPPS II) 1st Cowdray

2nd Berkeley 3rd Oxford Polo 4th Cotswold

Hipwood

The Smail Trophy 1st Cowdray Lions

2nd Oxford Polo

3rd Cowdray Gryphons 4th Cotswold

The Emerson Trophy 1st Hampshire Hunt

2nd SOHS

3rd Dorset Polo Club

Rocksavage

1st OS&B

2nd Cotswold

3rd Cottesmore 4th Cotswold Dutch Courage

from the Jorrocks matches

were supported by family and friends on the sidelines

Cambridge and Newmarket Polo Club Ladies Matches

Throughout the season Cambridge and Newmarket Polo Club (CNPC) has been encouraging the ladies polo with regular fun Friday night ladies training matches.

During June a number of more competitive matches were held. The first seeing Zhivago Pink (Laura Shumiloff, Bella Lavinia, Charlene Goudkuil, Belinda Schofield) winning convincingly in-between torrential monsoon rainstorms. There were some fabulous team plays between Charlene (Most Valuable Player for the match) and Bella. Best Playing Pony for this match was awarded to Equi-Energies Amber Zakrzewski with her 11-year-old TB grey mare Snow. In a second series of matches there were some fast flowing and competitive games

between Pink Ibis, Equi-Energy and Zhivago Pink. Hannah Buckenham played a very solid game for Equi-Energy and Eleanor Neyroud marked the opposition well. For Zhivago Pink, Juana Lavina sent some huge shots forward to her team mates and scored a smoking 60 penalty which was unstoppable. Pink Ibis’ Delphina Valor had some quick runs to goal out of the line out and there were strong mid field plays between Holly Gadsby, Brigi Ussher and Pippa Outtridge. Although all the games were very close, Pink Ibis took the win on accumulated goals over the matches with Delphina winning Most Valuable Player. Charlene Goudkuil’s six-year-old Argentine pony Matuza Colincha won Best Playing Pony.

This

“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 they need without any wastage” Rob Cudmore, Polo Manager Black Bears Polo Club

Photograph

of CNPC

Pink Ibis vs Equi-Energy teams at CNPC

Amber Zakrzewski with her Best Playing Pony, Snow

Photograph by Charles Coldrey

Charlene Goudkuil with her Best Playing Pony, Matuza Colincha

Photograph courtesy of CNPC

Rest of the World Triumphs

Holds Off France in Deauville Clash

On Sunday 12 August, an international women’s match between France and the Rest of the World at Deauville Polo Club as part of the Barrière Deauville Polo Club which included multiple tournaments and matches throughout August: The Coupe d’Argent, Beach Polo, Diane Barrière Ladies Polo Cup, Coupe de Bronze and Coupe d’Or – to read more about The Coupe d’Argent turn to the Reports pages and The Women’s Polo pages for The Diane Barrière Ladies Polo Cup Final.

The Deauville Women’s International Match Teams

The Rest of the World team ended the first chukka with a 2-0 lead but France fought back to challenge the win. With three time Women’s Argentine Open champion Milly Hine at the helm, the Rest of the World team maintained their composure and held onto a two-goal lead (7-5) until the final whistle. Hine commented after the match, “It was a very competitive game, a great 20 goal encounter. Our Rest of the World team was made up of players who hadn’t played together before, although I had

Milagros Sanchez goes in for the hook

France (19)

Paloma Lauro (3)

Ambre Ploix (4)

Pearl Venot (5)

Elena Venot (7)

played with Milagros Sanchez before, but we really clicked. Playing in France against France is always a challenge, but we had a system that we were able to apply and stick to throughout the game and that was the key to victory.”

Where: Deauville Polo Club, France

Photography by © Pascal RenauldonR&B Presse

Rest of the World, winners of The Deauville Women’s International Match

Doma Angels Triumph

Doma Angels faced Augustinus Bader in the Final

Doma Angels

Carole Muir

Alicia Prat

Pearl Venot

Elena Venot

Augustinus Bader

Mendoza Houben

Lucia Heyes

Paloma Lauro

Lia Salvo

In the tenth anniversary of The Diane Barrière Ladies Polo Cup, the Doma Angels dominated the second half. Despite being narrowly defeated by Augustinus Bader in the qualifiers, the Doma Angels turned the tables in the Final, showcasing a dominant performance. The key to their success lay in the synergy between two sisters who have played together since childhood and know each other

MVP

inside out. The younger sister, Pearl Venot, scored an impressive seven goals and earned the Most Valuable Player prize. “It’s all thanks to Elena, who always lifts me up,” said Pearl, attributing much of her success to her older sister. “She often puts me in a position to score, even though we’re always competing against each other during our games. But this competition between us pushes us to play at a higher level. Our horses were fantastic today. They’ve just come back from a month’s competition in Mallorca and arrived here in perfect condition. They were incredible.”

The Doma Angels learned valuable lessons from their hard-fought victory over Augustinus Bader in the first match, which helped them refine their strategy for the final. “Yes, the first match was definitely more challenging. We had to understand the referees’ style and analyse Lia’s [Salvo] game, especially since she had strong support from her teammates, particularly Paloma Lauro and Lucia Heyes, who was a real obstacle for me today by protecting Lia. But Elena, even though she was slightly injured, played incredibly well.”

Angels,

The Diane Barrière Ladies Polo Cup Teams

Doma

winners of The Diane Barrière Ladies Polo Cup

Where: Deauville Polo Club, France

Pearl Venot BPP

Besos played by Pearl Venot

THE NEW BEAUFORT POLO CLUB ARENA

The Hook Army Polo Captains & Subalterns Tournament

The Household Cavalry beat the RA 7-4 in the Final of the Hook Army Polo Captains & Subalterns Tournament with goals from Lt Col Tom Armitage in the first and third chukkas, Tpr Conor Beukes in the third chukka and Cornet Jonty Barlow in the third and fourth chukkas. Barlow was also named Most Valuable Player.

The Hook Army Polo Captains & Subalterns Tournament Teams:

Division One Section One

Household Cavalry (-1): Maj Kelly Richards (-1), Lt Col Tom Armitage (-1), Cornet Jonty Barlow (1) & Tpr Conor Beukes (-1) Commando Gunners (-2): Maj Luke Wadman (0), Maj Claire Blakiston (-1), Capt Will Young (0) & Capt Matt Ryder (-1) Army Medical Services (-4): Lt Will Corner (-2), Maj Liv Allenby-Dilley (-1) Lt Rheana Parmar (-1), Capt George Linfield-Brown (0). Royal Signals (-2): Cpl Elly Robb(-2), Lt Alex Bartlam (0)/Lt Lizzie Mayo (-1), Capt Ed Richards (0) & Lt Col Barney Jacques-Grey (1)

Division Two

RAF (-2): Sqn Ldr Ross Thompson (-1), Flt Lt (Retd) David Black (-1), Sqn Ldr Ellie Hoogewerf (0) & Andrew Speight (0)

Royal Artillery (-2): Capt (Retd) Matt Cornell (-1), Lt Col Rob Skeggs (0), Lt Col Jim Luck (-1) & Col (Retd) Dickie Winchester (0)

Veterans (-3): Helen Gredington/Naomi Lile (-2), Elaine Corner/Scott Killops (-1), Clive Gregory (0) & Tim Lewis (0)

Royal Logistic Corps (-4): Padre Capt Iain Mcaleavey/Dave Taylor (-2), Maj Nigel Prescott (-1), Capt Nick Lowe/Lt Col (Retd) Tom Ridgway (-1) & Lt Col Lucy Anderson (0)

Division One Section Two (American Style Tournament)

Royal Navy (-6): Jo Steel/Michael Avery (-2), Liam Molloy (-2), Jodie Abisgold (-2) & Steve Worsley (0)

Royal Armoured Corps (-6): Lt Toby Clarke (-2), Maj Huw Bell (-2), Lt Mollie Jackson(-2) & Maj Arthur Purbrick (0)

Adjutant Generals Corps (-4): Capt Sara Allen (-2), WO2 Lorraine Money (-1), Ocdt Freddie Gibson (-1) & Lt Col Janet Johnston (0)

The Tiger Trophy

The RAF were the winners of The Tiger Trophy American Style Tournament between the Hook Army Polo Team, The Royal Navy and The Royal Airforce, beating the Royal Navy by 3 goals to a half and beating the Army 2 goals to 1½.

The RAF, winners of The Tiger Trophy

Photograph by Peter Meade

The Household Cavalry, winners of The Captains & Subalterns Trophy

The Captains & Subalterns Trophy Teams

Photography by Peter Meade

Irupe

Height: 15.1hh

Age: 10-years-old

Colour: Chestnut

Sex: Mare

Owned and played by: Nico Fontanarrosa

Tournament: The Eduardo Lanusse Rojas 6 Goal Final at Beaufort Polo Club

Where is she from/breeding? She was trained at Estancia El Rocio in Argentina.

How long have you had her? This is her fourth season in the UK.

What are her strengths? A bit of a tiny dancer, she is nimble and very eager!

How has she gone this season? She has been very consistent in every way.

Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? Yes, she won The Eduardo Lanusse Rojas Polo Times BPP in 2022 and also The Julian / Howard Hipwood Final BPP in 2024.

What are your plans for her in the future? She could well slot into my son Lolo’s string in the future!

IAIA Angelina

Height:15.1hh

Age: Eight-years-old

Colour: Light Bay

Sex: Mare

Owned and played by: Owned by Diego ‘Frito’ Giagante and played by Josh Hyde Tournament: The Roberts Cup Final at Guards Polo Club

Where is she from/breeding? I bought her from Nacho Novillo Astrada in Argentina.

How long have you had her? She arrived in the UK two years ago.

What are her strengths? She is super fast and easy.

What are your plans for her in the future? We have plans that maybe she will play in the high goal next season.

Does she have any special quirks? She has what we call ‘The Stink Eye’ – she is very wary and highly tuned, a bit like a little rabbit!

Describe her in three words? Nimble, alert, eager.

by

Photograph by

Photograph

Nico Fontanarrosa

Irenita Máscara

Height: 15.2hh

Age: 10-years-old

Colour: Dark Chestnut

Sex: Mare

Owned and played by: Owned by La Irenita and played by Pablo MacDonough Tournament: The Indian Challenge Polo Trophy Final at Guards Polo Club

Where is she from/breeding? She was born and raised in La Irenita.

How long have you had her? Since she was an embryo!

What are her strengths? Extremely handy and light.

How has she gone this season? She always plays the same, no surprises.

Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? She did in the World Polo League.

Gibson

Height: 15.1hh

Age: 17-years-old

Colour: Bay

Sex: Mare

Owned and played by: Sara Wiseman Tournament: The Claire Tomlinson Trophy Final at Beaufort Polo Club

Where is she from/breeding? I am not sure of her breeding.

How long have you had her? I got her at the end of last season from 3 Goal Pro, Nick Clague

What are her strengths? She is small, handy and has a lot of power in short plays and a good turn of speed on the run. She is is also tough in a ride off and takes anything on!

How has she gone this season? She has been a lot of fun and a great addition to my string this year and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know her and her quirks!

What are your plans for her in the future? I will play her again next season and as she is getting a bit older we may look at

What are your plans for her in the future? To keep on playing her in Europe.

Does she have any special quirks? Not at all.

Describe her in three words? Loyal, easy, strong.

breeding her with our stallion as she is such a nice, little polo type.

Does she have any special quirks? She is pretty sensitive and doesn’t like much contact in the mouth so I just have to be mindful when shutting down to give her as

little pressure as possible. She can also be a bit tricky to catch in the field sometimes.

Describe her in three words? Zippy, tough, agile.

by

Photograph

Pablo Ramirez

Photograph by Joss Ridley Photography

Lady Luck

Height: 15.1hh

Age: 14-years-old

Colour: Dark Bay

Sex: Mare

Owned and played by: Tom Dalton-Morgan Tournament: The Vaux Park Polo Club 4 Goal Victor Ludorum Final

Where is she from/breeding? I bought her from Ed Hitchman in 2020.

How long have you had her? I have had her since 2020.

What are her strengths? She’s powerful, has good sides at speed and is very tough.

How has she gone this season? She’s been going very well so far this season.

Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? This is her first with me, I’m not sure about before I had her.

What are your plans for her in the future? She’s not going anywhere! She’s a favourite on the yard and in my string.

Strawberry Tallington

Height: 12.2hh (but thinks she’s 15hh)

Age: 20-years-old

Colour: Strawberry Roan

Sex: Mare

Owned and played by: Owned by Lucas Borwick and played by Annalisa Tomlinson Tournament: The Pony Club Polo Championship Handley Cross at Cowdray Park Polo Club

Where is she from/breeding? She has been a hand me down from Hugo Taylor to Billy Barlow, through all three of the Borwicks children now onto Mark and Laura Tomlinson’s children!

How long have you had her? We have had her for six years.

What are her strengths? She adapts to whoever is riding her, from a complete beginner to a brilliant little jockey like Annalisa Tomlinson. As much as you ask, she will give.

How has she gone this season? The better they got to know each other the better she has gone.

Does she have any special quirks? She’s a little bit hot and nervous, but this year she’s really started to chill out which is great. She’s also inseparable from another good mare of mine, so they go everywhere as a package deal.

Describe her in three words? Powerful, athletic, kind.

Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? She has cleaned up in the Pony Club awards this season at Beaufort, Black Bears and Cowdray.

What are your plans for her in the future?

She has found her next home I think, living next to Laura’s Olympic Dressage horses she feels very much at home!

Does she have any special quirks? You have to watch out for the sharp left hand turn when hitting a neck shot, she follows where it should go, so look out!

Describe her in three words? Loving, greedy, fun.

by HW

Photograph

Photography

Photograph by

Vaux Park Polo Club

Red (Touche de Rouge)

Height: 15.2hh

Age: 13-years-old

Colour: Bay

Sex: Mare

Owned and played by: Will Millard Tournament: The Pony Club Polo Championship Gannon at Cowdray Park Polo Club

Where is she from/breeding? She is by Shokolov and out of Chaguarmas.

How long have you had her? I’ve been playing her for three years now, I bought her from Glen Sherriff.

What are her strengths? She is probably the fastest horse I own, once she sees green grass she’s gone! She also has a nice soft mouth, so checking down on her is super easy.

How has she gone this season? This year, she wasn’t going too well for me at the start of the season, as she was often fresh when playing, but now later on in the season she’s really come into herself and I’m really enjoying playing her.

Luigi

Height: 15.1hh

Age: 18-years-old

Colour: Chestnut

Sex: Gelding

Owned and played by: Owned by Bethan Hitchman and played by William Whittington Tournament: The Pony Club Polo Championship Jorrocks at Cowdray Park Polo Club

Where is he from/breeding? He is Italian hence the name!

How long have you had him? He’s been with the Hitchmans for 10 years and William started playing him this season.

What are his strengths? He’s very strong in a ride-off and a rock-solid hitting platform.

How has he gone this season? He’s been fantastic and William has loved playing him –I don’t think he’s come off the pitch without a huge grin!

Has he won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? No, this is his first.

Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? She also won the X-Zony BPP prize in The Jubilee Cup last year with me.

What are your plans for her in the future? As far as I can see, I’ll keep playing her as I really enjoy playing her, but she’s also a very unique horse and it takes a lot of time to get used to playing and riding her, so I wouldn’t want to lose that bond by selling her!

Does she have any special quirks? She will not stand still for more than three seconds, whether it’s on the field or waiting as a spare. She never stops and always wants to go back on the field. She also tries to canter back onto the lorry when we load to go home.

Describe her in three words? Speedy, crazy, agile.

What are your plans for him in the future? We’d love him to carry on teaching William and enjoying his polo.

Does he have any special quirks? He absolutely loves minty bit butter and will try to eat it out of the tub!

Describe him in three words? A complete legend!

Photograph by Polo Times

Photograph by Joss

Ridley Photography

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

Cervical Spine Injuries in Polo

An underestimated risk in a high-velocity sport

Polo as one of the highest-intensity equestrian sports combines speed, precision, and physical agility. Despite its elegance and strategic complexity, it also poses significant risks particularly regarding musculoskeletal injuries. Among these, cervical spine injuries are a serious yet often underestimated risk. This article aims to provide an in-depth examination of cervical spine injuries in polo, emphasising their mechanisms, potential outcomes, and preventive strategies.

The Nature of Cervical Spine Injuries

The cervical spine, consisting of the first seven vertebrae (C1 – C7), plays a critical role in supporting the head and facilitating its movement while also protecting the spinal cord. Injuries to this region can range from mild strains and sprains to severe fractures and dislocations, potentially leading to catastrophic outcomes.

In the context of polo, cervical spine injuries can occur through various mechanisms, most notably falls, direct impacts, and whiplashlike motions. The high speed of the game, combined with the unpredictability of horse movements and the physical contact between players, creates an environment where such injuries are a significant risk.

Mechanisms of Injury in Polo

– Whiplash Injuries: Whiplash, a common cervical injury, occurs when the neck is subjected to a sudden, forceful movement, often back and forth. In polo, such motions can happen during sudden stops, sharp turns, or collisions, where the player’s body may move violently in one direction while the head lags behind, stressing the cervical spine.

– Direct Impacts: Polo players are at risk of direct impacts from the ball, mallet, or another player’s horse. A mallet strike or collision with a horse’s head or body can lead to significant trauma to the neck. Even with helmets, the neck is relatively exposed, making it vulnerable to such impacts.

– Falls: One of the most common causes of cervical spine injuries in polo is falling off the horse. Given that polo ponies can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, a fall can generate substantial force upon impact with the ground. If the rider lands awkwardly, particularly on the head or neck, the force can result in fractures, dislocations, or severe soft tissue injuries within the cervical spine.

Potential Outcomes and Complications

The consequences of cervical spine injuries can be severe, depending on the type and extent of

the injury. Common injuries include:

– Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains and sprains of the muscles and ligaments surrounding the cervical spine can cause significant pain and stiffness, limiting a player’s range of motion and ability to participate in the sport.

– Dislocations and Subluxations: These occur when the vertebrae are displaced from their normal alignment, which can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots, leading to pain, weakness, or numbness in the arms or legs.

– Cervical Fractures: Fractures can range from minor cracks in the vertebrae to complete breaks, potentially leading to instability in the spine. A severe fracture can cause the vertebrae to impinge on the spinal cord, leading to neurological deficits, paralysis, or even death.

Prevention and Management Strategies

Given the high stakes, prevention of cervical spine injuries is paramount in polo.

Strategies include:

– Protective Equipment: While helmets are mandatory, there is a growing argument for the use of neck braces or collars that can help stabilise the neck during a fall or collision, reducing the risk of severe cervical injuries.

– Training and Conditioning: Strengthening the muscles surrounding the cervical spine through targeted exercises can provide better support and reduce the likelihood of injury. Additionally, players should receive training on how to fall correctly to minimise the impact on their heads and necks.

– Rule Enforcement: Strict enforcement of rules, particularly those governing dangerous play, is crucial. This includes penalising reckless riding and ensuring that all players adhere to safe playing practices.

4. Emergency Response Planning: Polo clubs and event organisers should have robust emergency response plans in place. This includes having medical personnel trained in spinal injury management on-site and ensuring that appropriate equipment, such as spine boards and cervical collars, is readily available.

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.

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

Rocksavage & Hipwood Merged

First responder tactic:

Conclusion

Cervical spine injuries in polo, while not as frequently discussed as other equestrian injuries, represent a serious risk that warrants attention from players, coaches, and medical professionals alike. By understanding the mechanisms of these injuries and implementing comprehensive prevention and management strategies, the sport can continue to thrive while safeguarding the well-being of its participants. The elegance of polo should not come at the expense of safety, and with proper precautions, the risks associated with cervical spine injuries can be

Llavallol & Carlos María Ulloa

Polo Rider Cup 2022

into Pony Club

If you suspect a back or neck (spinal) injury, do not move the affected person.

Permanent paralysis and other serious complications can result.

Argentine Association of Horse Breeders’ Best Playing Pony: Future Lituania, played by Carlos María Ulloa

Assume a person has a spinal injury if:

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

• There’s evidence of a head injury with an ongoing change in the person’s level of consciousness

• The person complains of severe pain in his or her neck or back

• An injury has exerted substantial force on the back or head

• The person complains of weakness, numbness, or paralysis or lacks control of his or her limbs, bladder or bowels

• The neck or body is twisted or positioned oddly

If you suspect someone has a spinal injury:

• Get help. Call emergency medical help.

• Keep the person still. Place heavy towels or rolled sheets on both sides of the neck or hold the head and neck to prevent movement.

• Avoid moving the head or neck

Provide as much first aid as possible without moving the person’s head or neck. If the person shows no signs of circulation (breathing, coughing or movement), begin CPR, but do not tilt the head back to open the airway. Use your fingers to gently grasp the jaw and lift it forward. If the person has no pulse, begin chest compressions.

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.

• Keep helmet on. If the person is wearing a helmet, don’t remove it. A helmet facemask should be removed if you need to access the airway.

• Don’t roll alone. If you must roll the person because he or she is vomiting, choking on blood or because you have to make sure the person is still breathing, you need at least one other person.

Fair Play Award: Carlos

drmedkrueger@gmail.com or www.polodoc.ch

Neck braces or collars can help stabilise the neck during a fall or collision

If you suspect someone has a spinal injury avoid moving the head or neck

Photography by PRC

Polo Club Niederweiden will be competing in the 2022 Polo Rider Cup

Braun

Gaston Lucero & Federico Martelli

Carlos María Ulloa

Santiago

Photography by Matias Callejo

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

The Importance of a Good Sleep and Waking

In today’s fast-paced world, where productivity is often prized above all else, the importance of sleep and establishing a consistent waking routine can be easily overlooked. However, science and psychology both affirm that the foundation of a successful and healthy life is deeply rooted in our daily habits, particularly those related to sleep. Two prominent voices in the realms of neuroscience and psychology, Dr. Andrew Huberman and Dr. Jordan Peterson, have emphasised the critical role of sleep and waking routines in overall well-being and cognitive performance. This article delves into their perspectives, offering a comprehensive understanding of why prioritising sleep and maintaining a structured morning routine is not just beneficial, but essential.

The Science of Sleep:

Dr. Andrew Huberman’s Perspective

Dr. Andrew Huberman, a renowned neuroscientist and professor at Stanford University, has been a vocal advocate for the importance of sleep in maintaining optimal brain function and overall health. He emphasises that sleep is not just a passive state of rest but a dynamic process that is critical for cognitive performance, emotional regulation, and physical health.

In his podcast, the Huberman Lab, Dr. Huberman states, “Sleep is the foundation on which our waking life is built. It is during sleep that our brain processes the information we have taken in during the day, consolidates memories, and clears out toxins.” This statement underscores the importance of sleep in cognitive functions such as memory consolidation and learning. Without adequate sleep, our ability to retain and process information is significantly impaired, leading to decreased productivity and mental sharpness.

Moreover, Dr. Huberman highlights the role of sleep in emotional regulation. “Sleep deprivation,” he explains, “is closely linked to increased stress levels, irritability, and even depression. It disrupts the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, making it harder to manage emotions and stress.” This insight is crucial, as it connects the quality of our sleep directly to our emotional well-being. A consistent sleep routine can help maintain the delicate balance of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are essential for mood regulation.

The Power of a Consistent Waking Routine

While sleep is vital, Dr. Huberman also emphasises the importance of a consistent waking routine. He points out that our bodies

Sleep is important for all of us, despite our hectic routines

Photograph by Mark Beaumont

operate on a circadian rhythm, a natural, internal process that regulates the sleepwake cycle and repeats roughly every 24 hours. “The timing of when we wake up is just as important as the duration of our sleep,” he notes. “Waking up at the same time every day helps anchor our circadian rhythm, which in turn improves the quality of our sleep.”

the stage for the rest of your day to unfold in a structured and predictable manner. This predictability allows you to manage your tasks more efficiently and reduces the chaos that often leads to stress.”

1. Set a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This consistency helps regulate your body’s internal clock.

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

One key aspect of a healthy waking routine that Dr. Huberman recommends is exposure to natural light early in the morning.

Record Breaking Final’s Day

“Morning sunlight is incredibly powerful in setting your internal clock. It signals to your brain that it’s time to be awake and alert,” he says. Exposure to natural light in the morning helps regulate the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep, ensuring that it is produced at the right times, leading to better sleep at night.

In addition to light exposure, Dr. Huberman suggests incorporating physical movement into your morning routine.

“Exercise in the morning, even if it’s just a brief walk, can kickstart your metabolism and increase energy levels throughout the day,” he explains. This combination of light exposure and physical activity not only helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle but also enhances overall energy and focus.

Peterson also connects the importance of a morning routine to the concept of responsibility. He asserts that waking up at a consistent time and starting your day with intention is a form of taking responsibility for your life. “When you establish a morning routine, you’re telling yourself and the world that you’re in control, that you have a plan, and that you’re ready to face the challenges of the day.” This sense of control is crucial for mental health, as it fosters a sense of competence and self-efficacy.

The Intersection of Neuroscience and Psychology

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

Photography by Antonia Bullrich

Jordan Peterson on the Psychological Importance of Routine

Dr. Jordan Peterson, a clinical psychologist and professor of psychology, has extensively discussed the psychological significance of routine, particularly in the context of sleep and waking habits. Peterson argues that establishing a consistent daily routine is fundamental to creating order in one’s life, which is essential for psychological stability.

“Discipline and structure are key elements in building a meaningful life,” Peterson states in his book 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos. He elaborates on how having a set routine, especially in terms of sleep and waking, can provide a sense of order and predictability. This order is not only comforting but also essential for reducing anxiety and stress. “When you wake up at the same time every day, you set

The insights from Dr. Huberman and Dr. Peterson intersect at several key points, particularly in their emphasis on the importance of routine for both physical and psychological health. While Dr. Huberman focuses on the neuroscientific aspects, explaining how sleep and circadian rhythms affect brain function and overall health, Dr. Peterson brings in the psychological perspective, highlighting the role of routine in creating order and reducing stress. Both experts agree that a good sleep and waking routine is foundational to a wellfunctioning life. Dr. Huberman’s research underscores the importance of aligning our sleep patterns with our natural circadian rhythms, while Dr. Peterson’s teachings emphasise the psychological benefits of consistency and routine. Together, their perspectives provide a comprehensive understanding of why these daily habits are so crucial.

Practical Steps to Establish a Good Sleep and Waking Routine

Given the importance of sleep and waking routines, it’s essential to develop practices that support these habits. Here are some practical steps, informed by the insights of Dr. Huberman and Dr. Peterson:

Team Tristar

2. Morning Light Exposure: Try to get at least 10 to 30 minutes of sunlight exposure within an hour of waking up. This helps reset your circadian rhythm and improves alertness.

3. Incorporate Morning Movement: Engage in some form of physical activity in the morning. This can be as simple as a walk, which can boost your energy and mood.

4. Mindful Evening Routine: Create a relaxing evening routine to wind down before bed. Avoid screens at least an hour before sleep, as blue light can interfere with melatonin production.

5. Prioritise Sleep Hygiene: Ensure your sleeping environment is conducive to rest. This includes a comfortable mattress, a dark room, and a cool temperature.

6. Plan Your Day: Start your morning by setting intentions or goals for the day. This can help you feel more in control and reduce anxiety. The importance of a good sleep and waking routine cannot be overstated. As emphasised by Dr. Andrew Huberman and Dr. Jordan Peterson, these routines are not merely about getting enough rest or being productive; they are about aligning with our natural rhythms and taking control of our lives. By prioritising sleep and establishing a consistent waking routine, we can improve our cognitive functions, emotional stability, and overall quality of life. In a world that often glorifies busyness, taking the time to nurture these foundational habits may be one of the most powerful steps we can take towards better health and well-being.

If you would like to register your interest in the RAISE Community where subjects like this get explored on a daily basis, please email stalkie@rygp.co.uk @raiseteams

Rhett Wooldridge

Olivia Whittle & Lisa Knight

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

Georgia Sweeney & Gemma Byrne

Frankie & Alex Antony

Pete & George Woodward

Bridie Courtney Morgan

Charlie Simpson & Jade Louise Wheeler

Sandy & Mike Warren, Ross Byrne

Sophie Morrison Mary Kelly

Issy Litvak & Libby Connaughton

Jemima Wilson & Graham Wooldridge

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

Improve Your Rider Core Muscles

Core is an essential element to any movement in polo. It supports you in the saddle and also on the ground doing day-today tasks around the yard.

Not only does a strong core protect your back but it aids in rotational movements, flexing and extending of the spine, maintains posture during the swings and provides a stable base during ride offs.

There are so many core exercises out there that it can be daunting knowing where to begin and trying an exercise that is too advanced can actually cause more damage to the back and hips if not performed correctly.

1. So let’s start with a really basic core muscle engagement exercise, The Ab Press, this exercise engages the muscles without putting pressure on the lower back or hip flexors.

Start by lying on your back with your knees bent and feet planted on the ground. Place both hands on your lower belly, take a deep breathe in and rock your hips forward so that your back flattens and your lower belly muscles contract. Pull up your pelvic floor muscles as you engage the core. Relax and rock the hips backwards so that the back arches slightly and the abs relax. Repeat this process 12 to 20 times and this will gently wake up those lower tummy muscles and strengthen the pelvic floor.

2. Now that the muscles are awake let’s take it up a level. Raise your legs up to table top, engage those same lower tummy muscles by tucking your pelvis under you. Keeping the knees bent at 90 degrees slowly lower one foot to the ground. Exhale and

pull the leg back to centre using your lower tummy muscles. Repeat on the other leg and alternate legs for 12 to 15 reps per leg. This movement trains the core to stay engaged whilst performing dynamic movements.

3. Let’s take it into the best compound movement for the core and body in general – the plank. A simple but very effective exercise that has many variations. Start on your elbows and toes and raise your hips up off the ground until they are level with your shoulders. Activate your pelvic tilt and gently pull your belly button into your spine. Lengthen through your heels and the crown of your head and breathe. Before starting the plank, you may want to try some diaphragmatic breathing to engage the stomach muscles. Hold each plank for 30 to 60 seconds and repeat three to five times.

4.Copenhagen Plank (Advanced – avoid if you have shoulder issues or any adductor injuries unless advised by a professional). You will need a bench or chair and a mat for comfort. Begin in a side plank and place your top leg onto the bench keeping a 90 degree bend in the knee. From there bring your hips and lower leg up to meet the bench. You should now be in a side plank with both legs up. Start by holding this position then progress on to some hip dips and then leg raises with the bottom leg. 10 to 30 second holds followed by 12 hip pulses and 12 leg raises.

5. Bird Dog with arm and leg raise. This is more of a stability exercise that requires the core to be activated. Start on your hands and knees, push the ground away from you, and keeping a neutral spine raise the opposite arm to leg and hold. Pull your pelvic floor up and tummy button up into your spine. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds per side and repeat 10 times per side. This compound movement encourages the body’s slings to work together which reduces back pain and improves overall posture.

Add this routine in to your warm-up to ensure that your trunk is fully activated and you have better control during your exercises.

If you’re looking to improve your fitness and become more effective in the saddle then check out India’s App on www.indiaparkersmith.com click on Polo and Programmes.

Lorna Edgar – specialist equine nutritionist

Mark Tomlinson (6 goals) Breaking Traditions!

The equine industry is steeped in tradition, and the world of polo is no exception, especially when it comes to feed related traditions. Opinions range from forage makes horses ‘heavy’ and is ‘bulk’ (so muzzles are used to stop them just eating their beds), to feeding a lot of oats for the energy polo ponies require, to name but a few. However, science helps us to have a better understanding of the horse and what we can do to make changes to their management to ensure their needs are met to perform at their absolute best – alongside putting their welfare at the forefront of their management.

Some of the increased risks seen in those traditional management are gastric ulcers and tying-up, both of which will have a huge impact on the performance of individuals and their longevity of their career. Rather than always treating these problems, it makes more sense to change management to avoid or reduce the risks of them occurring.

So in February, Mark Tomlinson got in touch to ask if I would visit his yard of horses based at Beaufort Polo Club. He explained how he was keen to implement some changes in the management of his horses –aiming to cut out the use of muzzles and to allow the horses constant access to forage – which in turn would hopefully reduce the incidences of tying-up and gastric ulcers.

In March, I met with Steph Whitman, Mark’s Yard Manager, to discuss how we were going to make changes to the management of the horses. It was going to be best to do this at the beginning of the season as the horses come in from their winter break, and the thoughts were:

• Not to muzzle the horses at all from day one of them coming back into work

• Allow ad lib forage day and night

• For ‘greedy’ individuals to have smallholed nets rather than loose forage in their HayBars

• To bring them all into work on a low starch feed but one that is also high in calories, which was Ease & Excel mix

• For those needing more calories to have three feeds per day rather than two As the horses became fitter, we then

discussed how to ensure we continue the above regime whilst introducing some energy for those horses that required it, and, once the ponies were travelling and playing a lot, how their needs might be managed:

• Continuing with three feeds per day whenever possible

• Introducing some Competition Mix to those horses that needed a higher starch intake for more ‘quick release energy’, but keeping Ease & Excel mix as the mainstay of the diet

• Ensuring that when they arrived at polo, they all received a scoop of alfa chaff and a drink of water, whilst having studs done and boots and bandages put on.

Questions to Mark:

What are your main reasons for wanting to make a change to how your horses are fed and managed?

I believe that if 90 percent of Racehorses have gastric ulcers, then these statistics must be the same for polo when we consider traditional methods in which polo ponies are often managed. The idea that they perform better having limited food, or in extreme cases are starved for long periods of time, has been very prominent in polo and it takes time for people to accept this is not right and then change their habits.

I feel that if science has found that exercising the horse on an empty stomach can increase the incidents of gastric ulcers from the ‘sloshing-effect’ (of gastric acid in the stomach as the horse works), or that having an empty stomach for periods of time can also increase the risk of ulcers and of course other health and performance risks, then we need to act on it. Not only are gastric ulcers painful, but they can also cause them to be grumpy, restless, lose condition, go off their food and affect their performance.

Do you feel the horses have performed any differently this season?

The horses have performed so well this season, they still have as much power and energy, if not more, they recover well, have held their condition and after a busy season they are still going well.

Have they felt ‘heavy’ from having more forage in their diet?

The horses have not felt heavy as a result of the change of feeding system but I’d just like to clarify that, as well as the diet, the exercise regime is critical to whether or not a horse gets heavy. In fact just as you tailor the diet / system to suit each horse’s needs the same needs to be done with their exercise. Some horses need a lot of work the day before they play and others don’t, for example

Are they too ‘fat’ from having more forage in their diet?

No, as all the grooms and Steph have been treating each horse as an individual, so diets and management have been tailor made to suit their needs.

How easy do you feel it has been to make these changes and would you continue doing the same again next year?

Yes, we will keep the new regime in place for sure, for whatever level of polo we are playing – low, medium or high goal.

Questions to Steph:

How easy was it to implement these changes?

I had to take into consideration the thoughts and opinions of the grooms I work with. There was a lot of discussion, a bit of friction and some challenges, but we all had to respect that Mark wanted to make the changes for the benefit of the horses. It was a case of ‘trial and error’, as some horses reacted differently to others, but with this starting at the beginning of the season and the base line feed of Ease & Excel, we were then able to increase/reduce and alter the diets individually as to how they were going and looking.

How do you feel the horses reacted to having access to their forage whenever in the stable – were there changes in their behaviour?

The key was starting this new regime at the beginning of the season as they came in from the fields eating 24/7 to not having anything taken away from them. The

Reina is 11-years-old, she was bred by Claire Tomlinson, Rajmata x Javad. She has been of quite a nervous disposition over the years, but she is becoming more and more settled. She used to sweat a lot before a game, but this no longer happens. She began the season on Ease & Excel mix & Ease & Excel Cubes but once she was settled in her polo she then had some Competition Mix added to her feed as well. She also receives a balancer, oil and electrolytes.

Havana is nine-years-old is a home bred Hestenel x Zorro. She is another hot horse that will run off her adrenaline and not need any feed! She has been fed Ease & Excel mix, with some Competition Mix added when needed, but with careful management a happy medium has been found with a calm and consistently performing horse. Her mix was also topped up with a balancer, oil and electrolytes.

changes were almost instant, all the horses were so much more relaxed, happier in themselves and all their coats have been gleaming this year. We used to find that some of the horses would become fussy with their food once they began playing, but that hasn’t been an issue at all as they have had the time to eat and relax.

The changes in their behaviour have been huge, they are so much calmer – on the track, in the stable and in the pony lines. I always noticed that in the pony lines before they would be really tense, fidgety and sweat up.

Do you feel the incidences of gastric ulcers and tying up have been reduced this season?

Yes, we have had no need to treat any of the horses for gastric ulcers this season, whereas last season we were treating several of them. And, touch wood (with three weeks

Pampa is 10-years-old, she is a homebred Pelusa x Zorro. She is a very hot mare and runs off adrenaline. She began the season on Ease & Excel mix, but even this gave her too much energy to start with, so she was taken back to a Horse & Pony Cube with balancer, and then, once playing regularly, she went back onto Ease & Excel mix, with some Competition Mix, balancer, oil and electrolytes.

This mare came over from Argentina this year and she did not look very good on arrival so it’s amazing she looks like this now

Vitamina is nine-years-old and came over from Argentina this year. She is from the Tanoria breed, Open Bingo x Vitabella. When she arrived from Argentina she had dropped quite a bit of condition, so we are delighted she is looking so well at the end of this season. She has fitted well into our routine and management so far and seems to have suited the Ease & Excel Mix, with Competition Mix added when needed, plus a balancer, oil and electrolytes.

left of the season) we have not had one horse tie-up this year on the new regime –but not forgetting all the other work that has gone into ensuring the horses are able to perform at their full potential.

Overall, how do you feel the changes have made a difference to the horses in their performance and condition?

From my point of view it has been amazing, it’s great to see them looking so well, happy and performing at their best for Mark.

As you can imagine I am so pleased that Mark and Steph have felt the changes they have made to the management of the horses this year has been a positive one, it is a big change for all involved, and I won’t deny that when I saw Steph’s messages in my inbox as polo began, I was a little nervous! But, after a few tweaks for individuals and their needs, and Steph and I keeping in touch

regularly, the season has been a success, Mark is happy and the horses have reaped the benefits!

I take my hat off to Mark’s grooms, Miguel Sosa, Cristian Sosa, Gustavo Silvero and Juan Amarilla, who have embraced the changes and no doubt questioned what we are trying to do, but can be proud to know they have a string of healthy horses, and in doing so have broken traditions.

Thank you all!

Photography courtesy of Mark Tomlinson

Innovative Study into Equine Trigeminal-Mediated Headshaking

Researchers from Animalweb utilise poll-mounted accelerometers

A group of UK equine specialists have undertaken a unique study to develop an objective measure of equine trigeminalmediated (TGM) headshaking (HS) in response to the current lack of an accurate method to monitor the frequency and severity of headshaking events.

TGMHS is a neuropathic facial pain syndrome that affects some horses. It is characterised by varying intensity and frequencies of violent head movements and signs of nasal irritation. Currently, there is no gold standard diagnostic test for TGMHS, meaning diagnosis is made by careful observation and the exclusion of other causes following a detailed physical examination, endoscopy, and CT scan.

To determine an accurate method to quantify and characterise the condition, the researchers recruited 56 horses. This sample included: 18 horses who presented with symptoms of TGMHS, 10 horses who were non-TGMHS, 12 horses presenting with forelimb lameness, and 16 healthy horses.

Head movement data was collected for five minutes whilst the horses trotted on the lunge using a tri-axial accelerometer attached

to the bridle or halter headpiece at the horses’ poll. The study found that characteristics of head movements differed between groups of horses. TGMHS horses had both more frequent head movements and movements with greater g-force (acceleration).

TGMHS horses recorded over twice as many positive peaks per minute than other horses. The percentage of peaks above 2 g (upwards head movements) was over 12 times greater, and the percentage of peaks less than -2 g (downwards head movements) was over four-times greater in comparison to other horses.

These rapid acceleration/deceleration peaks are associated with the head movement described by owners as when the horse looks like it has received a sudden electric shock to the muzzle or been stung by a bee up its nose.

The use of an accelerometer, therefore, could be useful for both veterinary surgeons and owners of headshaking horses to provide useful additional data to help identify TGMHS and its severity plus the response to treatment, as well as aiding in further understanding of the condition at minimal cost. Furthermore, improving the ability to correctly assess treatment outcomes would also have a positive effect on horse welfare.

Led by Dr Kirstie Pickles, Dr David Marlin, Professor Jane Williams, and Dr Veronica Roberts, the innovative study successfully concluded that accelerometer data collected during trotting exercise on the lunge provides an objective measure of headshaking. Additionally, this data can differentiate between TGMHS, non-TGMHS, normal head movements, and those associated with forelimb lameness.

As such, an accelerometer mounted to a horse’s bridle at their poll may aid in the diagnosis of headshaking, quantification

of its severity and frequency, and the monitoring of management and or treatment strategies for this painful and distressing condition. The research paper, Use of a pollmounted accelerometer for quantification and characterisation of equine trigeminalmediated headshaking, has been published as open access in the Equine Veterinary Journal by BEVA.

Dr Kirstie Pickles explains, “This is the first report of tri-axial accelerometer use for measurement of headshaking in horses. The accelerometer was able to provide accurate measurement data about the characteristics and frequency of headshaking movements. Additionally, data analysis provided excellent recognition of headshaking-associated movements of the head from normal head motion displayed by control [healthy] and lame horses, and between TGMHS and non-TGMHS affected horses. As such, the accelerometer holds potential as a diagnostic aid to the clinician, as well as being useful in objective assessment and monitoring of disease severity”.

Dr David Marlin adds, “Headshaking is an extremely distressing condition for both horses and owners. Despite some excellent research in recent years, there is still a lot that we don’t understand. This is complicated by the fact that headshaking is often episodic – horses may shake badly for a day or two and then not shake for a few weeks. Also, it can be confused easily with other conditions which cause the horse to shake its head, such as dental pain or guttural pouch infections. This tool will be invaluable in supporting clinicians and researchers in trying to improve the welfare of TGMHS affected horses, and we already have two further studies utilising the same technology”.

Dr Veronica Roberts comments, “We are extremely grateful to the Langford Trust for their financial support of this research”.

Poll-mounted accelerometer

Prof Jane Williams

Dr Kirstie Pickles

Dr David Marlin

Dr Veronica Roberts

Photography courtesy of Animalweb

Horse Welfare on the Road

Standing Rock Is Ensuring Safe Travels

In the world of horse care, few things are as important as ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our equine companions, especially when travelling. Polo Times spoke with Eugenio Fernandez, the experienced Team Manager at Standing Rock Polo Team, who provided valuable insights into what it takes to keep horses safe and comfortable on the road.

The Importance of Hydration and Nutrition

“One of the most important aspects of travelling with horses is ensuring they always have enough water and hay,” says Eugenio. “When they eat and drink, they don’t think

about anything else, which helps keep them calm and content during the journey.” Maintaining consistent access to these essentials prevents dehydration and stress, two major concerns during long trips.

Ventilation: Keeping Cool on the Road

Ventilation is another critical factor in horse transport. “You must make sure they have enough ventilation, so they don’t get too hot in the lorry,” Eugenio explains. Overheating can lead to serious health issues, including heatstroke, which can be fatal if not addressed quickly. “We have fans and monitor the temperature. Also, we can open

side doors if needed,” he adds, emphasising the importance of being prepared for varying weather conditions and temperatures.

Choosing

the Right Route

The route taken during transport is more than just a means to an end – it’s a key part of ensuring a safe journey. “Always find a good road to travel on with a big lorry,” Eugenio advises. “It’s always better to choose bigger roads and avoid bridges or very small roads.” Narrow or winding roads can increase the risk of accidents, making it essential to plan ahead and select routes that minimise these hazards.

In any transaction, ensuring paperwork is in order is crucial. “We rely on a top agent to manage ours because even a small error in documentation can lead to significant delays. Proper paperwork is the key to avoiding the most common hold-up in any process”.

Constant Monitoring for Safety

Equipped with cameras to monitor the horses during travel, Eugenio and his team can quickly spot and address any issues that arise. “Keep an eye on the cameras all the time, and make sure everything is okay in the back,” he stresses. “Horses like to be able to see each other, so sometimes they squabble.” Constant vigilance is crucial to catch problems before they escalate, ensuring the safety of both the horses and the people travelling with them.

Access to food and water while travelling helps keep horses calm

Ventilations reduces the risk of overheating

Cameras allow you to monitor your horses during travel and control the temprature at all times

Photography by Standing Rock

Driving a Safe Vehicle

When it comes to transporting horses safely and efficiently, size and accessibility are crucial.

“Our largest lorry has the capacity to carry up to 18 horses comfortably, this vehicle is designed with both the animals’ safety and the handlers’ convenience in mind. One of the features of this lorry is its three emergency doors on the side. These doors are more than just an added convenience – they’re a critical safety feature. In the event of an emergency, the ability to access the horses quickly is essential. With these doors, our team can enter the lorry immediately, ensuring that any situation is managed swiftly and effectively. This design also allows us to easily tend to the horses during transit, ensuring their comfort and wellbeing throughout the journey”, Eugenio adds.

Additional Considerations for Safe Horse Transport

Beyond these key points, several other factors contribute to a safe and successful journey for horses:

– Tying and Spacing: Horses should be properly tied so they cannot lower their head under the partition, unless you have full partitions and travel them loose, each horse should have adequate space within the transport vehicle to prevent injuries and minimize stress. Overcrowding can lead to discomfort and increased risk of accidents.

– Frequent Stops: Regular breaks during long journeys allow horses to rest, hydrate, and stretch their legs. These stops also give handlers the opportunity to check on the horses’ condition and make any necessary adjustments. For a polo team, however, it’s not always easy to find suitable facilities where horses can rest overnight. It’s essential to get in touch with overnight stables well in advance, especially when travelling through regions where accommodations for a large number of horses may be limited. Ensuring that there are enough boxes available for all the horses to rest comfortably is a critical part of the planning process. This careful coordination helps prevent stress and fatigue, ensuring the horses remain in peak condition throughout the journey.

– Emergency Preparedness: Having a plan in place for emergencies is essential. This includes knowing the location of veterinary services along the route and having a well stocked first-aid kit on hand.

– Training and Acclimatisation: Horses that are unfamiliar with travelling can become anxious or stressed. Training them to load calmly and acclimatizing them to the transport environment beforehand can make a significant difference in their comfort during the journey.

– Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Ensuring that the transport vehicle is in good working condition is critical. Regular servicing and maintenance checks on tyres, brakes, and

“For the Standing Rock Polo Team, horse welfare is paramount. With no room for compromise, every journey is a chance to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to the safety and care of our horses.”

Philipp Mueller, Owner

ventilation systems can prevent breakdowns and ensure a smoother, safer ride.

Philipp Mueller explains: “Recently, our team embarked on a challenging journey from the UK to the Swiss Alps and France, navigating various terrains and climates. These trips remind us of the importance of meticulous planning and attention to detail in ensuring our horses’ wellbeing. From ensuring proper hydration and ventilation to choosing the safest routes and constantly monitoring our horses, each step is taken with their comfort and safety in mind.

Travelling across Europe, we’ve encountered different road conditions, weather patterns, and logistical challenges, all of which have reinforced the need for good preparation and adaptability. As we continue to explore new regions and compete internationally, we strive to make every trip a safe and positive

experience for our horses, allowing them to perform at their best while staying healthy and content on the road.

In this sport, our horses are more than just partners – they’re the heart of our team. As we push the boundaries of where we compete, we are equally committed to pushing the standards of horse care and transport, ensuring that our beloved animals are always treated with the utmost respect and care. I am proud to have such an experienced team that consistently gives their best for the welfare of our horses. Their dedication and expertise are what make these journeys successful, ensuring that our horses are always in the best hands, no matter where we travel.”

Please note that Standing Rock exclusively transports their own horses. Different rules and regulations may apply if you are transporting horses as part of a business.

Horses should be properly tied so they cannot lower their head under the partition

The Standing Rock lorry has three emergency doors

International Day; Saturday 27 July; Guards Polo

International Day at Guards

This year’s International Day at Guards Polo Club featured two international matches. Young England beat Argentina in The Whitbread Trophy with this year’s match featuring the highest handicapped teams since 2007. Meanwhile in The Coronation Cup, Argentina secured their seventh win against England (wins in 1953, 1995, 2000, 2009, 2014, 2019 and 2024) with a dominating 13-6 victory (please turn to Youth Polo and Reports pages for more action from these matches).

Photography by The Art Of Polo/Hurlingham Polo Association

Club, Windsor

Adrian Simonetti & Delfin Uranga Will Lucas, Andrew Hine & Stephen Hutchinson

Teresa Beresford, Lisa Butcher, Olivia Donoso & Carolina Beresford

Hissam Ali Hyder

Malcolm Borwick & Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers Serena Whitbread Bronwen & Tim Brown

Madam Ambassador Mariana Plaza & Anna Hall

Antony Fanshawe & David Woodd

Stephen Hutchinson, Lt. Col. Sean O’Dwyer, Mary O’Dwyer, Diana Butler, Tara Bown, Tissy Sievwright & Sophie White

Richard, Imogen & Amy Blake Thomas

Louis Hine, Will Harper & Dom Lodge

Guests outside Guards Polo Clubhouse

Posy Cudmore, Tabba Huxley, Rupert Lewis, Ollie Cudmore & Tilda Gittins

Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup Final; Sunday 11 August; Guards Polo Club, Windsor

Polo In The Driving Seat

Horsepower of all shapes and sizes was on show at this year’s Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup Final. In addition to some superb ponies on the field of play – a match won by the Bin Drai Polo Team – there was a breathtaking selection of Italian styling in the shape of Ferraris new and classic. Even the players swapped their ponies for this magnificent marque at the very start of the game, chauffeured onto the polo field in style and creating quite an entrance. Leading the parade was tournament sponsor John Collins, a former high-goal player and owner of Talacrest, the world-famous classic Ferrari dealers, accompanied by Park Place captain Hilario Ulloa. Meanwhile, back in the Clubhouse Searcys kicked off their day for the VIP Clubhouse hospitality guests with glasses of Laurent-Perrier, followed by terrine, Beef Wellington and chocolate mousse. DJ Paul Linney closed the day for all with some sizzling tunes –so appropriate as this was one of the hottest days of the year.

Photography by Sam Churchill

Tommy Panelo

Tissy Sievwright

Hilario Ulloa & John Collins

Scots Guards Association Band of Pipes & Drums

Lachie Gilmore

Mohammed Bin Drai Lucas Criado Jnr

Ferrari Owners Club of Great Britain Paddock

Sarah Keeling & Konstantin Graf von Schweinitz

DJ Paul Linney

Mary O’Dwyer

Benjamin Panelo

Pony Club Polo Championships; 9 – 11 August; Cowdray Park Polo Club, Midhurst

Pony Club Polo Summer Special

The annual Pony Club Polo Championships are a highlight in every young player’s polo calendar, with a summer of polo culminating of one long weekend of competitive chukkas with friends all set against the iconic background of the Cowdray Ruins. This year’s heatwave temperatures meant keeping the ponies and players cool was the name of the game, luckily British Polo Gin were on hand with ice-cold drinks, tasty pizzas and delicious empanadas to give those families camping some much needed time off from catering duty!

The party on Saturday night kicked off with a bucking bronco –more tricky than it looks – as children and parents alike enjoyed some much needed down time before Sunday’s Finals.

Sunday was packed with polo, parades and presentations, with every competitor receiving a goody bag packed full of gifts including a copy of Polo Times, Cowdray Park Polo Club baseball caps and for each Division winner a commemorative Polo Times T-shirt.

Well done to all the players, the parents and ponies and see you all next year!

Photography by Polo Times

Naunton Dickins Rich Hine & Becan Dalton

Kiki Severn & Zahra Lucas Bucking Bronco time

Elsa & Ed Littlewood

Mikey Henderson & Will Lucas

Gemma Bryne with Charlotte, Georgia & Lesley Sweeney Jenai & Eliza Clague with Michaela Jackson Georgie Daly, Shannon Mordaunt, Philippa Borrows & Christo Daly

Nina Vestey, Lola Lucas & Melba Fox

George Amor with Oscar & Sam Fuery

Scarlett Shaw, Louise Turner, Sophia Clemente’s, Clara Lovett, Sophia Marie Palmer & Rosie Stockdale

CONGRATULATIONS!

Mr Benjie Davis and Miss Georgia Harding are delighted to announce their engagement. They met through polo and both continue to play at Ham Polo Club where Georgia holds a 0 goal handicap and Benjie plays off 2 and is a member of the club’s board of directors. Georgia and Benjie plan to marry in the spring in 2025.

JACK RICHARDSON RETIRES

English professional Jack Richardson has announced he will be retiring from professional polo at the end of 2024, due to severe Arthritis in both of his shoulders which he has been struggling with for the past six years. We wish Jack all of the best in his new venture, Glide Collective, which will help sports and entertainment professionals in alternative investing.

A VERY HAPPY MR & MRS HINE!

British Polo Gin’s Richard Hine married Olivia Ellis on Saturday 17 August in Gloucestershire, congratulations to the happy couple.

CLUB PHONE EMAIL

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

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

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

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

Barfold Polo Club 07778 808853 mborwick@gmail.com

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

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

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

Binfield Heath 01491 411969 bhpcmanager@gmail.com

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

Bramham Polo Academy 07811 993316 emmadvh@btinternet.com

Bunclody Polo Club 00353 87 6605917 info@poloclubbunclody.com

Burningfold Polo Club 01483 200722 derrek@burningfold.com

Cambridge Polo Club* 07711 217004 cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com

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

Carlton House 07901 561113 harrietservaes@hotmail.com

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

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

Chiltern Polo Club 07973 174542 info@chilternpoloclub.com

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

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

Curraghmore Polo Club 00353 51 387102 mkennedy@cssgroup.ie

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

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

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

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

Eastwood Polo Club 07968 300063 frankums@googlemail.com

Edgeworth Polo Club 01285 821695 edgeworthpolo@gmail.com

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

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

Epsom Polo Club* 07961 232106 epsompoloclub@hotmail.com

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

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

Great Trippetts Polo Club 01428 741916 charles@trippetts.com

Guards Polo Club* 01784 434212 polo@guardspoloclub.com

Ham Polo Club 020 8334 0000 office@hampoloclub.com

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

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

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

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

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

Leadenham Polo Club 07429 299026 office@leadenhampoloclub.com

Longdole Polo Club* 01452 864544 info@longdolepolo.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pangbourne Polo Club 07708 906810 aprice@polofix.com

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

Polo Wicklow* 00353 404 67164 siobhan@polowicklow.com

RAF Cranwell 07739 569491 rafcranwellpoloclub@yahoo.co.uk

Ranelagh Polo Club* 01344 885697 ranelagh@labravapolo.com

RCBPC* 01344 890060 polo@rcbpc.com

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

Rugby Polo Club* 01788 817724 info@rugbypoloclub.com

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

Silver Leys Polo Club 07730 060200 silverleyspoloclub@gmail.com

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

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

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

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

Taunton Vale Polo Club 07771 931541 Chairman_tcvpc@btinternet.com

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 open for arena polo in the UK winter

Polo directory

What’s On – Polo Fixtures

UK

Guards The Flemish Farm Trophy 2 to 6 20/08/24 01/09/24

Guards The President’s Trophy 8 to 10 24/08/24 07/09/24

Beaufort Solitaire Salver 0 to 4 25/08/24 07/08/24

Guards The Autumn Nations 10 to 12 28/08/24 15/09/24

Kirtlington Park Colquhoun Cup 6 28/08/24 01/09/24

Kirtlington Park KPPC Cup 2 28/08/24 01/09/24

Tedworth Park Full Swing Trophy –6 to –2 31/08/24 01/09/24

Druids Lodge Forest Edge Rose Bowl 8 31/08/24 01/09/24

Vaux Park SCE Polar Bear Challenge 2 31/08/24 01/09/24

White Rose End of Season Tournament 31/08/24 01/09/24

Cirencester Park Gouldsmith Bowl 4 to 8 03/09/24 21/09/24

Kirtlington Park Chairmans John Tylors Memorial Trophy 4 04/09/24 08/09/24

Guards Major General’s Trophy 0 to 2 06/09/24 08/09/24

Beaufort Sidebottom Cup 2 to 6 06/09/24 14/09/24

Westcroft Park The Farewell Cup 2 07/09/24 08/09/24

Tedworth Park Frost Cup –4 to 0 07/09/24 08/09/24

Kirtlington Park Autumn Cup 0 07/09/24 08/09/24

Druids Lodge Polo Art Trophy 2 07/09/24 08/09/24

Guards The Chairman’s Cup 0 to 4 10/09/24 15/09/24

Kirtlington Park Groundsman Trophy 2 11/09/24 15/09/24

Kirtlington Park Peagram 50/50 Open 11/09/24 15/09/24

Cirencester Park End of Season 4 Goal 0 to 4 12/09/24 21/09/24

Cirencester Park Sue Cudmore Associates Trophy –2 to 2 12/09/24 22/09/24

Tedworth Park Cavalry Cup –6 to –2 13/09/24 13/09/24

Druids Lodge Emerson Trophy 2 14/09/24 15/09/24

Tedworth Park Grooms Tournament & End of Season Party 20/09/24 20/09/24

Tedworth Park Valete Cup –6 to –2 21/09/24 22/09/24

Druids Lodge Clock Tower Trophy Open 21/09/24 22/09/24

Rutland Wilkinson Sword –2 21/09/24 22/09/24

Rutland Bronze Horse –4 21/09/24 22/09/24

WOMEN’S

Denver Great Plains Circuit Women’s Challenge 6 to 12 28/08/24 01/09/24

La Herradura, USA Pacific Coast Circuit Women’s Challenge 16 to 20 04/09/24 08/09/24

La Herradura, USA Pacific Coast Circuit Women’s Challenge 12-Goal 10 to 12 04/09/24 08/09/24

Myopia, USA Northeastern Circuit Women’s Challenge 2 to 6 06/09/24 09/09/24 Mountain View, USA Karen Carra Memorial Tournament 14/09/24 25/09/24

Barrington Hills, USA Central Circuit Arena Women’s Challenge 0 to 12 20/09/24 22/09/24

Santa Barbara, USA Pacific Coast Circuit Women’s Challenge 8 to 12 27/09/24 29/09/24

YOUTH POLO

La Herradura, USA National Youth Tournament Series Championship -4 to 6 12/09/24 16/09/24

Cirencester Park RJ Polo Junior Associates Trophy Open 12/09/24 22/09/24

Quick Question

Chantilly

FRANCE

USA

Lakeside National Arena Chairman’s

SPANISH

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

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

CLUB PHONE EMAIL

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

Winter Grazing Winter grazing available on dry sandy turnout with brand new fencing and gates. Secure private location with plenty of shelter nr Midhurst. Twice daily checks provided. Can accommodate up to 15-20 horses. £50 per horse weekly including hay. Tel: 07710 483225

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

5x Suede Polo Saddles 2x 17.5”, 2x 18.5”, 1x 19” polo saddles. The saddles are made from lovely full grain leather and they are very comfortable to ride in. They also grip well. They have English safety stirrup bars that can flick up or lay flat for safety. RRP on these saddles is circa £800. All the saddles are new. £275 each (Newmarket) collection or £9 postage. Tel: 07793 203977

Barfold Polo Club 07778 808853 mborwick@gmail.com

Barfold Polo Club 07778 808853 mborwick@gmail.com

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

EMAIL

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

Longdole

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

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

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

Beverley Polo Club* 01964 544877 info@beverleypoloclub.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

Winter Grazing 10 acres, double field shelter, 10 ft high hedge surrounds great shelter, ad-lb haylage and water. Twice daily inspection. Would suit 4-5 ponies. (Northamptonshire) Tel: 07764 288890

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

Bunclody Polo Club 00353 87 6605917 info@poloclubbunclody.com

Burningfold Polo Club 01483 200722 derrek@burningfold.com

Burningfold Polo Club 01483 200722 derrek@burningfold.com

Cambridge Polo Club* 07711 217004 cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com

Cambridge Polo Club* 07711 217004 cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com

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

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

Carlton House 07901 561113 harrietservaes@hotmail.com

Carlton House 07901 561113 harrietservaes@hotmail.com

2x Polo Saddles for Sale Collection is Cambridge, but can post within the UK. £100 each or £150 for both together. Tel: 07596 878183

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

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

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

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

Chiltern Polo Club 07973 174542 info@chilternpoloclub.com

Chiltern Polo Club 07973 174542 info@chilternpoloclub.com

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

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

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

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

Curraghmore Polo Club 00353 51 387102 mkennedy@cssgroup.ie

Curraghmore Polo Club 00353 51 387102 mkennedy@cssgroup.ie

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

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

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

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

Leadenham Polo Club 07429 299026 office@leadenhampoloclub.com

Longdole Polo Club* 01452 864544 info@longdolepolo.com

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

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

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

Norfolk Polo Club 01508 480400 office@norfolkpolo.co.uk Northern Ireland Polo Club 07803 020577 info@northernirelandpoloclub.co.uk

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

Horse Weigh Board Horse Weigh Board for sale in excellent condition. Has sides and ramps. Unit comes with metal box. Can be dismantled easily and moved around. No longer used. Brand new priced at £7995 plus VAT. £2,500 (Petworth). Tel: 07703 503100

Pangbourne Polo Club 07708 906810 aprice@polofix.com

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

Advertising Polo directory

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

WINTER GRASS

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

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

Leys Polo Club 07730 060200 silverleyspoloclub@gmail.com St. Albans Polo Club 07956 017090 info@stalbanspoloclub.co.uk

706045 info@stewartonpolo.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

Eastwood Polo Club 07875 743475 frankums@googlemail.com

Eastwood Polo Club 07875 743475 frankums@googlemail.com

Edgeworth Polo Club 01285 821695 edgeworthpolo@gmail.com

Edgeworth Polo Club 01285 821695 edgeworthpolo@gmail.com

576974 aes3@cam.ac.uk

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

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

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

occasion polo cards for birthdays, anniversaries, get well soon, weddings, & baby congratulations; from £2.99 plus p&p

occasion polo cards for birthdays, anniversaries, get well soon, weddings, & baby congratulations; from £2.99 plus p&p

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

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

714920 info@sussexpolo.co.uk

nhs.wheelers@gmail.com

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

Epsom Polo Club* 07961 232106 epsompoloclub@hotmail.com

Epsom Polo Club* 07961 232106 epsompoloclub@hotmail.com

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

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

Taunton Vale Polo Club 01823 480460 nhs.wheelers@gmail.com

Tidworth Polo Club* 01980 846705 info@tidworthpolo.com

Stirrups With Interchangeable Grips Five inches wide, New not used. No box. £40 (Newmarket). Tel: 07775 513245

Polo Club 07776 234638 info@toulstonpoloclub.com Triskelion Polo Club* 07624 272547 polo@triskelionpolo.club

426968 info@valeofyorkpoloclub.co.uk

vppc@btconnect.com

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

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

Great Trippetts Polo Club 01428 741916 charles@trippetts.com

Great Trippetts Polo Club 01428 741916 charles@trippetts.com

Polo Saddles 2x La Martina suede polo saddles 1x Calcutt & Sons pig skin polo saddle for sale, all in used but good condition. Further measurements available if requested. £100 each or £250 for the 3 (Warminster). Tel: 07810 650262

Guards Polo Club* 01784 434212 polo@guardspoloclub.com

Guards Polo Club* 01784 434212 polo@guardspoloclub.com

Ham Polo Club 020 8334 0000 office@hampoloclub.com

Ham Polo Club 020 8334 0000 office@hampoloclub.com

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

858545 info@westcroftparkpolo.co.uk

info@westcroftparkpolo.co.uk

875767 info@whiterosepolo.co.uk

info@whiterosepolo.co.uk

670587 kim@playpolo.co.uk

kim@playpolo.co.uk

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

Visit www.Katesart.com or txt/tel 07887 678421 or email: enquiries@Katesart.com image copyright protected by Katesart.com 2007

Visit www.Katesart.com or txt/tel 07887 678421 or email: enquiries@Katesart.com image copyright protected by Katesart.com 2007

Executive helicopter charter service

Richard Bailey is a former Technology and Finance executive, and together with his wife Cheryl has lived in Australia, Singapore and Palo Alto California. He is a Board Director, Board Adviser and Private Investor now based in the UK. As a result of his farming background Richard had access to riding and polocrosse as a young adult and after a 30 year pause, in his mid 50s he began riding again and playing polo. He is currently a member of Singapore Polo Club and Kirtlington Park Polo Club and holds a USPA membership and handicap. He is interested in giving young English players the opportunity to develop, enjoys the camaraderie on and off the field, developing the clubs and the game.

What is your biggest passion?

My family and friends and our two Jack Russells.

What is your all-time best polo memory?

Winning the Gerald Balding in 2023. We started playing 8 goal in 2021 and the Victor Ludorum in 2022 without a single tournament win. In 2023 we started strongly, I missed a game due to precommitted travel but made it back for the Final. We were down 4 goals by the end of the second chukka and were losing virtually every lineup. We refocussed and restructured and went on to win. We were playing Oriflamme who we play often and have a lot of respect for, it is such a prestigious name and trophy and Cirencester put on a great event. A close second is an Asado at Estancia El Rocio, Nico and Mandy Fontanarossa’s Polo Estancia in Argentina .

Who were/are your favourite teammates?

Nico Fontanarossa, he is an incredible player and an inspiration who has helped me enormously in England. Jeff Scheraga at Santa Barbara Polo Club, the longest hitter I have ever seen, persevered and brought me into polo. Sattar Khan at Singapore Polo Club, an outstanding horseman and player. My uncle Walter Alden at Perth Polo Club. Kings Meadow, we never played polo together but played polocrosse together for Kulin . He is the reason I was always wanted to play polo.

Hardest opponent?

Kaspar Budd, I played against him in The Wichenford Bowl Final at Beaufort last year. I was chasing him all day, he scored an incredible back hand goal in the fifth chukka to seal the win for Nelson Polo.

Which sports do you like outside of polo?

Golf, unfortunately golf in summer conflicts a lot with my polo schedule and golf in winter in England can be challenging .

Favourite film and why?

Lawrence of Arabia, I have watched it many times, epic true story, epic landscapes and inspiring story. Given the technology of the time the cinematography is amazing.

Favourite album?

Eldorado by ELO.

Favourite food/dish? Lamington.

Favourite hobby outside of polo? Travel.

Most prized possession? My Morgan Plus Four.

Favourite celebrity? Roger Federer

Best holiday destination and activity?

Lorne, Great Ocean Road, Victoria Australia. They have an annual open water swimming race The Pier to Pub, which ticks a lot of boxes for me where we literally race to the pub. There are 5,000 participants.

Best pony and why?

My grey gelding Koinor. I imported him to Singapore from Argentina as a sixyear-old and brought him to the UK. We know each other very well and I always play better because of the confidence he gives me.

Describe yourself in three words?

I asked my wife, Cheryl, and she said “can be annoying” but I like to think that I am a good team mate, generous and fair so I will go with that.

One thing which would surprise us about you? I am a Doctoral Student at the University of Warwick.

Photograph courtesy of Richard Bailey