Polo Times December 2022 January 2023

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TELEGRAPH VERDICT

As I sit down to write my last foreword of 2022, I cannot help but reflect on the past 12 months, which once again have passed all too swiftly. With more than a sprinkling of snow on the ground here in the English countryside, it feels like only yesterday we were struggling with the summer heatwave which saw a record of 40.3°C, yet in the blink of an eye another year is drawing to a close.

This issue of Polo Times is simultaneously our last for 2022 and first for 2023, and is packed with a bumper number of eight reports covering polo from across the globe including the arenas here in the UK, action from Manipur in India and of course Argentina, where The Triple Crown has culminated in an historic win for La Dolfina Saudi; not only did the Cambiaso father-son duo win The Argentine Open for the first time together, but Adolfo ‘Poroto’ Cambiaso Jnr entered the record books as the youngest player in history to win the title, at the age of 17 years and 6 days. His achievement was rightly recognised with a handicap raise to 10 goals, an impressive feat for someone so young. However, it is also worth highlighting the successes of our young, British players, whose talents have been recognised by their handicaps also being raised in Argentina, with Hugo Taylor and Louis Hine going from 4 to 5 goals, Ned Hine rising from 5 to 6 goals and Milly Hine increasing from 7 to 8 goals.

Our dedicated Youth, Women’s and Club Focus pages are all over-flowing with news from the UK and abroad, while the ever-popular Knowledge pages include advice and insight on everything from dislocated shoulders to looking after your ageing pony’s dietary needs and the importance of banishing blame from your game, plus the importance of using your lower legs when riding and rider recovery stretches.

So, sit back, relax and enjoy reading all about it (preferably with a hot mince pie in hand) and from myself and all of the team here at Polo Times , we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Keep well and play safe.

Nick Hine, Publisher

38th Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz 2023

Max Charlton is once again returning to St. Moritz

The organisers of the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz are delighted to welcome The Kusnacht Practice and Flexjet as new team sponsors of the world’s only high goal tournament on snow. They are joining the ranks of the existing teams Azerbaijan Land of Fire, World Polo League, Clinique La Prairie, and St. Moritz and Casablanca returns as the official outfitter. The event will take place on the frozen lake of St. Moritz over 27 – 29 January 2023 and there is already record demand for VIP and Chukker Club tickets, but there are still some available at www.snowpolo-stmoritz.com so don’t miss out! The 2023 event is expected to draw crowds of over 20,000!

Founder and organiser Reto Gaudenzi is very much looking forward to another fantastic event, “Every year, we see our guests delighted anew by the unique setting on a frozen lake against one of the world’s most stunning mountain backdrops; St. Moritz is second to none in making such a perfect match of genuine hospitality, luxury and authentic Alpine lifestyle. It is an exhilarating mix of locals, visitors, polo fans, winter sports enthusiasts, and foodies. We are also thrilled to see the demand from sponsors, players, and guests growing every year. It is, above all, a compliment to St. Moritz and the outstanding effort of all partners involved.”

Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz 2023 Teams:

Azerbaijan Land of Fire (18): Elcin Jamalli (2), Adrian Laplacette Jr. (6), Raul Laplacette Jr. (6) & Tito Gaudenzi (2)

The Kusnacht Practice (16): Eduardo Greghi (0), Nico San Roman (4), Alejo Taranco (8) & Charlie Hanbury (4)

Clinique La Prairie (TBC): Marc Ganzi (1), Nic Roldan (8), Fred Mannix (6) & TBC

St. Moritz (14): Spencer McCarthy (2), James McCarthy (2), Max Charlton (6) & Nacho Gonzalez (4)

World Polo League (TBC): Melissa Ganzi (0), Grant Ganzi (3), Alejandro Novillo Astrada (7) & TBC

Perrier-Jouët (15): Daniel Deistler (0), Patrick Maleitzke (5), Clemente Delfosse (5) & Patrick Paillol (5)

Sandpolo Announces 2023 Artists

2023 will see the event celebrate their 16th anniversary on 7 – 8 July in Sandbanks and to celebrate they have announced that Mica Paris will perform at Boogie on the Beach 2023 and Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp will feature at Sandpolo’s Weekend Closing Party. To find out more visit www.sandpolo.com

Photograph by SWPC/ Kathrin Gralla

s

Poroto Becomes Youngest 10 Goal Player

After a formidable Argentine season which saw La Dolfina Saudi win both The Argentine and Hurlingham Opens, Adolfo ‘Poroto’ Cambiaso has been raised to 10 goals in Argentina, making him the youngest player to reach this handicap at just 17 years and 11 days old. Poroto joins his father, Adolfo Cambiaso, who also holds a 10 goal handicap.

Other raises in handicaps include: Tomas Panelo, Jejo Taranco and Juan Martin Zubia from 8 to 9 goals, Joaquin Pittaluga and Pedro Zacharias from 7 to 8 goals, Cruz Heguy, Teodoro Lacau, Lukin Monteverde, Benjamin Panelo, Toly Ulloa and Jared Zenni (6 to 7 goals). Young Brits also had their handicaps raised including Hugo Taylor and Louis Hine (4 to 5 goals) and Ned Hine (5 to 6 goals).

2023 Polo Rider Cup

Araucaria Polo Club (ARG) has confirmed their return to the 2023 Polo Rider Cup which will be held over 14 – 24 June at Polo Club Saint Tropez. This is the third edition of the tournament and 2023 will see a break away from their usual venue of Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly. Araucaria Polo Club will be repeating their line-up of Fabio Meier, Luca Meier, Fabian Bolanteiro with the fourth spot yet to be confirmed, Fabio Meier commented, “We are happy to be part of The Polo Rider Cup for the second time. Next year it will be in St. Tropez and we know the Club very well as we have played here every year since my brother Luca and I started playing polo. Last year we were very pleased with the organization of the tournament and all the special events around it. We hope we can improve our result and we are very much looking forward to participating in another chapter of The Polo Rider Cup.”

2023 Stabling Available

Nominations open for The Jockey Club RoR Horse of the Year 2022

The search is now live for The Jockey Club RoR Horse of the Year as Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) has opened nominations via www.ror-events.org.uk. This is the first year that owners of former racehorses can nominate their horse and that there will be a public vote to determine the top three finalists. A shortlist of horses for this year’s award featured online at www.ror-events.org.uk to allow the public to vote from Thursday 1 December to Sunday 11 December with the award being presented at the RoR Awards Ceremony on 21 January 2023.

Pangbourne Polo Club offers a complete stabling solution for teams, patrons, or pros for the 2023 season.

Facilities include: Two polo fields, stick & ball area, two exercise tracks, all weather arena, round yard, wooden horse, serviced offices, gym, club room, ample turnout, and grooms’ accommodation.

Situated on the Englefield Estate, Pangbourne Polo Club is 30 minutes from Guards and RCBPC, and 45 minutes from Cirencester and Kirtlington.

Prices are competitive and can be negotiated for larger strings.

Please get in touch for more information: + 44 7984 499097 (Sophie) or + 44 7831 611196 (Andrew).

The Polo Rider Cup has confirmed their return for 2023

Photograph by PRC

Photograph by RoR

Late HM The Queen’s horse Quadrille with rider Louise Robson, the 2019 The Jockey Club RoR Horse of the Year

Photograph by Pangbourne Polo Club

2023 stabling available at Pangbourne Polo Club

Poroto Cambiaso joins his father on a 10 goal handicap

Photograph by Matías Callejo / AAP Pres

Home Office Approve Migrant Criteria for 2022/2023 Season

The HPA has announced that they have been working closely with the Home Office regarding migrant endorsement as the HPA criteria is reviewed every 12 months: “Part of the review is to provide evidence on the need for the number of migrant endorsements and categories of endorsements that the HPA has issued. In 2022, we issued more migrant endorsements than ever before. On looking at these numbers, the Home Office particularly focused on the high number of migrant grooms which make up part of the overall endorsements.

Record Breaking Final’s Day

relation the lack of resident grooms, primarily due to the seasonal nature of the work.

the overall ability of polo to grow in this country, and so must not apply to the sport as a whole.

“What has therefore been agreed is an increase in the number of years’ experience a groom needs from two to four, and a cap on the number of grooms per sponsor organisation, whether that organisation represents a team or professional player. This cap is based on the lower of the number of migrant groom endorsements granted in 2022, or the number listed in the Home Office criteria available here.

“As part of this review, we therefore provided extensive briefings about the nature of polo and the importance of the right number of grooms with the key skills and experience to support our sport at the highest level.

“In 2022, there was a higher requirement for grooms, and this required full justification. We made it clear we had more teams playing than ever before in 2022, especially in the high goal and without necessary endorsements of grooms with sufficient skills there are risks not only to the development of the sport in the UK but also to pony welfare and player safety. We also provided evidence and state the case in

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.

“The Home Office have confirmed with us that they understand the need for migrant grooms to enable our sport at the highest level and for the development of the sport. However, they have been clear that they wish to see less reliance on migrant grooms for polo over time.

“The result of their review was to confirm that there will be no changes to the criteria for players, manager, polo pony trainer, coach, umpire and coach/umpire for next year but did include increasing the requirements on experience of grooms as well as some restriction on numbers. HPA are adamant that any restriction on numbers must not impact on

The 129th RUS Hurlingham Open Final

On Saturday 29 October, after a two year drought of Triple Crown trophies, La Dolfina Saudi tasted success once again after defeating La Irenita Grand Champions 13-12 to lift the 129th RUS Hurlingham Open. This was La Dolfina Saudi’s 31st Triple Crown trophy and their 11th Hurlingham Open trophy – levelling with Ellerstina – and a significant moment for the Cambiaso family as father-son duo achieved their first Triple Crown trophy together.

After the match Juan Martin Nero received both the Most Valuable Player Award and Fair Play Award, Dolfina Roxy, played by Adolfo Cambiaso received The Daniel Kearney Cup for the Best Playing Pony and the AACCP Award for the Best Argentine Bred Pony was awarded to Dolfina B06 Cuartetera Clone, played by Adolfo Cambiaso.

The 129th RUS Hurlingham Open Final Teams:

La Dolfina Saudi (39): Adolfo Cambiaso (10), David Stirling (10), Poroto Cambiaso (9) & Juan Martin Nero (10)

La Irenita Grand Champions (36): Juan Britos (9), Francisco Elizalde (9), Pablo Mac Donough (10) & Juan Martin Zubía (8)

“As an example, based on 2022, some 80% of sponsors will not be affected by this change, and will continue to be able to bring in the same number of grooms as they had in 2022. Only 12% will have a reduction of 1 groom and just under 8% will have a reduction of more than 1 groom.

“We appreciate this is a change for us in polo, but we need to be aware that we have more migrant endorsements than any other sport, and we need to protect this special arrangement to ensure we are able to continue to positively benefit our sport from this route for migrant players, umpires, coaches, managers as well as grooms into the future.”

Photograph by Matías Callejo / Prensa AAP

La Dolfina Saudi, winners of The Hurlingham Open

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

Photography by Antonia Bullrich

Rhett Wooldridge

Olivia Whittle & Lisa Knight

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

Georgia Sweeney & Gemma Byrne

Frankie & Alex Antony

Pete & George Woodward

Bridie Courtney Morgan

Charlie Simpson & Jade Louise Wheeler

Sandy & Mike Warren, Ross Byrne

Sophie Morrison

Mary Kelly

Issy Litvak & Libby Connaughton

Obituary

Paul Withers

1939 – 2022

Paul Withers sadly passed away on Wednesday 19 October at 83-years-old in Savannah, Georgia.

Paul was a longstanding playing Member of Cowdray Park Polo Club for over 30 years with playing highlights including two consecutive Gold Cup wins with Cowdray Park in 1961 and 1962 and another Gold Cup playing for Windsor Park in 1969; The Coronation Cup and across the pond, The Butler Handicap. As a lieutenant in the 3rd Royal Horse Artillery, Paul won the InterRegimental Tournament twice.

Following his playing career, Paul moved into professional umpiring and continued to be heavily involved in the polo community, especially at Cowdray Park Polo Club and in 2013 he was awarded with the HPA Lifetime Achievement Award for an individual who has made a substantial contribution to polo in the UK.

Obituary

Nick Harrison-Sleap

27 June 1948 – 3 November 2022

On Friday 4 November, Taunton Vale Polo Club very sadly reported the death of their Honorary Secretary – Nick Harrison-Sleap at the age of 74. Born in 1948, Nicholas James Touchet Harrison-Sleap was the younger son of Derek Harrison the Managing Director of the J & C Harrison Ltd shipping line. Educated at Millfield School, it was there that his love of polo ignited and went on to shape much of his life.

Nick held memberships at Anstey, Ascot and his beloved Taunton Vale and played all over the UK with success, most notably in 1990 when ‘The Wyverns’ went on tour playing 4-8 and 8-12 goal before returning to Taunton to win the muchcoveted Houldsworth Cup. He established his own yard, Phoenix Stables in West Hatch, in 1986, continuing until he hung up his polo boots in 1994. Nick, however, remained committed to polo, taking on the role of commentator as well as Honorary Secretary – both roles he fulfilled, until his passing, with gusto, infectious enthusiasm, dedication, generosity and an ardent desire to make polo welcoming, enjoyable and accessible to all. With a keen eye for both horses and the rules, his passion was for enabling and supporting polo not only played well but also in the best traditions of good sportsmanship. A ‘natural’ behind the microphone, Nick has commentated with both wit and wisdom on princes and

Obituary

Bruce McKelvie

New Zealand Polo Association (NZPA) Life Member Bruce McKelvie (known as BJ) passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Sunday 30 October, at 68-years-old.

BJ was a successful player in his time playing on a 5 goal handicap for many years. He played for Rangitikei in three Savile Cup Final, he won The NZ Open High Goal in 1983 and won The

paupers alike – and was always a welcome advocate for polo on the local media.

Polo wasn’t Nick’s only passion; in his younger days Nick raced large power boats to an international standard; racing both with his own boats and for the Martini Rossi team.

Work as a shipbroker gave Nick a wide international circle of friends and a fount of stories to match. Aptly described as ‘larger than life’, a good raconteur and always very helpful and kind, Nick was a true friend to many; Nick had a good, full and exciting life.

Much loved, he will be very sadly missed and leaves a gaping hole at the Club.

He is survived by his elder brother, Peter.

Sir Rupert Mackeson remembered a dear friend, “Nick was the salt of the earth, he had a vast number of friends, one of those rare 99 percent of people who were immediately liked. I shall greatly miss him, we were friends for over 30 years.”

Wilson Cup in 1978 and 1980. He also won The Stead Cup in 1979 and Senior Handicap Cup in 1983 and 1986 as well as playing here in the UK.

BJ was a big supporter of polo in New Zealand and was on the NZPA Committee for approximately 30 years and was President of NZPA from 2012 – 2014.

Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

Photograph by NZPA

Photograph by Clayton Jane

Twelve Oaks (4)

Obituary

Tatty Wooldridge (0) Georgia Sweeney (1) Charlie Wooldridge (3)

Michael Butler

Rosina (4) Ola Kelly (0) Will Newman (2) Charlie Simpson (2)

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

Michael Butler was the son and grandson of the founders of the Oak Brook Polo Club in Illinois, established in 1922 and was a third generation polo player. Butler’s interest in athletics led him to an active participation in many sports including polo, tennis and yachting, but he was most well-known in America as the famed producer of the musical Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical.

Where: Ash Farm Polo Club, Surrey

Oak Brook with a British team, an event which drew over 20,000 spectators and was the first time he had played on American soil with an all-British team.

Butler rose to a 1 goal handicap and had success on the polo field, winning trophies including the 1974 Delegate’s Cup, the 1979 Continental Cup, and the Butler Handicap on three separate occasions (1979, 1986, 1987). His involvement also extended to the USPA where he served on the Board of Governors for 17 years (1968 to 1985) and as well managing Oak Brook Polo Club for many years; in order to cement Oak Brook as a hub of competitive polo and in 1986 arranged for the then Prince Charles to play at

Jubilee, owned and played by Will Newman

Butler passed away peacefuly on Monday 7 November in Los Angeles, California at the age of 95. He is survived by his son Adam Butler, Adam’s wife Michelle, and his grandson Liam. He is also survived by his sister Jorie Butler Kent and her daughter Reute Butler as well as his half-sister Wendy Dunaway and her two daughters Missy West and Jorie Waterman.

Photograph courtesy of USPA

Twelve Oaks, winners of The Paul Sweeney Memorial

Georgia Sweeney

Rocksavage & Hipwood Merged into Pony Club

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

Letter of the month

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

Dear Sirs

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

Best

Letters

Thom Bell started teaching in 2001 and established the Kinross Polo Club in 2004 and since then has improved his facilities from a small outdoor arena to a state of the art indoor all-weather pitch sized arena with a club room and café, all for the benefit of his students. Over the past 21 years, Thom has taught privately but has also taught and continues to teach many Scottish prep and high schools as well as many Scottish universities. His students range from non-riding beginners to advanced players. Thom is nationally well respected for producing players that are well educated in not only the rules of polo but also in sportsmanship and etiquette. Although appreciated and well renowned personally, in 2022 Thom received The Peter Bilsborough Tribute Trophy from the University of Stirling which was crowned the Top Sports University in 2020. This trophy was awarded for the first time in 2002, its purpose is to acknowledge the efforts of the most successful professional sports coach. The winning coach will have demonstrated that they have helped the Club achieve success at a performance level, and has been responsible for improving the standard of individual athletes, the awarded individual will have helped to develop an overall performance culture within their Club. In this award category, Thom was amongst professional coaches from all sports clubs at the university including ex-Olympians that

Polo Rider Cup 2022

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

Write to the editor in the following ways: w letters@polotimes.co.uk w Letters, Polo Times, Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton, Glos GL2 9LN

coach and coaches that teach current Olympians, his dedication to the sport and his commitment to every individual student shone through to achieve this prestigious award and there was no individual more deserving.

Thank you Concetta Pia

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.

Photography by PRC

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

Argentine Association of Horse Breeders’

Playing Pony: Future Lituania, played by Carlos María Ulloa

Best Playing Pony of the Final: Alberta Belvedere, played by Carlos María Ulloa

Fair Play Award: Carlos Braun

Gaston Lucero & Federico Martelli

Carlos María Ulloa

Santiago Llavallol & Carlos María Ulloa

Photography by Matias Callejo

the Big picture

A Bid to Save a Dwindling Breed

The Manipuri pony breeding farm of the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association at Lamphelpat is one hope to save this historic breed. The Covid-19 Pandemic was one challenging situation, which the Association did manage to overcome. Besides organising polo and equestrian tournaments, the MHRPA’s mission to save the almost critically endangered breed has been remarkable. The Manipuri Pony Society and Manipur Equestrian Association, which are sister organisations of the MHRPA, continue to face the day-to-today uphill task of managing the affairs of the ponies.

w Photograph by The Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association

“

Health and well-being are a precious and irreplaceable foundation for maintaining quality of life.” The Kusnacht Practice is a highly modern centre for reverse ageing (biomolecular rejuvenation BIO-R®), mental health, medical rehabilitation and addiction treatment – set in completely private, discreet and luxurious surroundings on the bank of Lake Zurich and Geneva. In order to restore the delicate balance between body, mind and energy, we provide truly bespoke, individual tailor-made treatment programmes to support our clients, who are treated in the luxury of their own private villa during their stay.

Our unique and individual BIO-R® treatment is a groundbreaking biomolecular rejuvenation cure for body and brain – a booster to maximise physical and emotional well-being. A perfect programme for ambitious athletes, active people to become the best version of themselves or persons looking to kickstart into a new healthier life!

5* Swiss Medical Excellence combined with the highest standards of Hospitality Founded in 2011, The Kusnacht Practice is renowned for being a recognised authority among experts and is a global leader in its field. Only one client is treated at a time in the private surroundings of their own luxurious villa to guarantee the highest level of discretion. Since 2018, Eduardo Greghi has been CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Kusnacht Practice: “We offer our clients not only the most innovative, but also the most personalised range of treatments. We maintain the upmost discretion whilst sensitively supporting them to lead healthier and happier lives. We create ‘a home away from home’ for clients and are passionate about helping them make sustainable life changes. Our key goal is to identify and treat the underlying cause of our clients’ disorders, not just their symptoms. This is the only way to achieve long-term improvement of health and stable healing.” Whilst exceptional care is provided during the treatment process, another key to success is the unique aftercare program to ensure that every client continues their recovery and implements the healthy coping mechanisms developed during their treatment, once they return home.

Expanded offer – the innovative “BIO-R®” programme

Our highly effective biomolecular restoration and rejuvenation programme serves to recalibrate the body, mind and energy through science to strengthen and re-energise the individual. BIO-R® can help clients enjoy life to the fullest, improve brain power and feel young and attractive for many years to come. The holistic approach and 360-degree nature of this treatment is unrivalled and improves the physical, emotional and mental well-being of each patient.

Dr. Antoinette Sarasin Gianduzzo, Head of BIO-R®, Nutrition and Lifestyle, member of the Board of Directors and founder of the BIO-R® programme, explains, “As pioneers of Biomolecular Restoration (BIO-R®), the Kusnacht Practice has developed a highly effective method of identifying and correcting biochemical imbalances that lead to physical and mental impairment.” She continues, “The BIO-R® team achieves this through state-of-the-art laboratory testing, tailored micronutrient supplements, specific treatments at the cellular level and personalised coaching. It is a unique, scientific medical treatment that seeks out the underlying causes and true roots of physical and emotional ailments and ageing processes and treats them.”

Best in Class Partnership:

The Kusnacht Practice & Snow Polo World Cup

St. Moritz

The partnership between The Kusnacht Practice and the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz is a matter of the heart for Eduardo Greghi. As a passionate polo player, the native Brazilian provides his own team and thus shares his passion with the international audience on site. Like the players on horseback, The Kusnacht Practice and the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz are equal partners. They share the strong values of a Swiss brand, and they are the best in their field.

The Kusnacht Practice’s Villa Eden

Eduardo Greghi

The Kusnacht Practice, with its main office near Zurich, Switzerland, is the world leader in the treatment of dependencies and psychological disorders. The state-of-the art treatment centre was established in 2011 and combines the highest Swiss quality standards with an internationally renowned team of doctors, psychiatrists and experts. This includes BIO-R ® , a unique treatment approach that corrects biochemical imbalances that are so vital for the treatment of anti-aging, weight loss, detox and more. A highly qualified and empathic team, fully dedicated to the client, provides the treatment with unequalled medical expertise in the full privacy of their own five-star villa on the shores of lake Zurich. The Kusnacht Practice applies the highest standards of professionalism, care and confidentiality. Since August 2021, The Kusnacht Practice also offers all its tailored treatments in Geneva.

The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships

Record 7th Title Ganzis Win

11th anniversary & over 12,000 spectators

The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships is the most wellattended event in the United States and this year saw over 12,000 spectators turn out for the 11th anniversary of the event.

There were four polo matches played throughout the day: EPR Polo defeated El Paso Naranjo 10-5 in The Horse & Hound Charity Match and won $6,000 for the Arizona Equine Rescue, while El Paso Naranjo won $4,000 for the Fetch Foundation; in The King Charles III Salute Match, the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club and Wales Polo Team battled it out and the match ended up in an 8-8 tie; The Barbara Lennox Wyatt Memorial Match saw Arizona Polo Club defeat the USA Women’s Team with a convincing score of 8-3.

The Molina Cup saw Melissa Ganzi, Grant Ganzi and Nic Roldan win an unprecedented seventh title after defeating Palm Beach Polo, 7-5. Nic Roldan scored one goal and Melissa Ganzi scored six goals for Aspen Valley Polo Club commenting, “There are very few sports where men and women compete equally but thankful to polo we get that chance, it’s always an exciting match. We love competing at this beautiful event every year and we equally look forward to seeing our friends and family when we travel to Scottsdale every November”.

Alongside the polo there was plenty for the guests to enjoy on the sidelines too with the Riot House Polo Day Club, Canine Couture by Lugari Pet Salon and Grimaldi’s Pizza Disco.

EPR

The

Royal

The

Arizona

The Molina Cup

Aspen

The Molina Cup teams, Palm Beach Polo & Aspen Valley Polo Club

The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championship Teams

The Horse & Hound Charity Match

Polo: Elle Seybold, Remy Muller & Jared Shelton El Paso Naranjo: Johan Felbaber, Oscar Chacon-Hidalgo & Nikolaus Felbaber

King Charles III Salute Match

County of Berkshire Polo Club: Jamie Morrison, Alex Webb & Andres Camacho Wales Polo Team: Rickey Cooper, Pete Webb & Niall Donnelly

Barbara Lennox Wyatt Memorial Match

Polo Club: Shane Doan, Jerome Drake, Diego Florez & Martin Morey

USA Women’s Team: Natalie Grancharvov Camacho, Courtney Parker, Josie Vidic & Kelly Coldiron

Valley Polo Club: Melissa Ganzi, Grant Ganzi & Nic Roldan Palm Beach Polo: Scott Wood, Jason Crowder & Juan Bollini

Where: The Polo Fields at WestWorld of Scottsdale, Arizona

Photography by David Blakeman

Spectators enjoyed four matches over the course of the day

Argentina, Australia, Italy, Mexico, Pakistan, Spain, Uruguay and USA took part in The XII FIP World Polo Championship which was hosted by USA and saw the USPA-owned, National Polo Center – Wellington (NPC) in Wellington, Florida, take centre stage and the return of the prestigious international tournament to American soil after a 24 year hiatus.

J5 Equestrian provided eight evenlymatched strings of 22 horses for the teams before the tournament matches began in order to allow each team time to get to know their ponies.

Going into the Final both Spain and USA had three wins and one loss apiece so the outcome was anyone’s guess, with a packed grandstand on the immaculate U.S. Polo Assn. Field One.

Spain gained early momentum with a Penalty 1 automatic goal, but USA siblings Hope and Agustin Arellano combined forces to score; Hope made history as the first woman to play for USA in a FIP World Polo Championship Final. USA’s Lucas Escobar managed to get to goal twice in the second chukka, while his brother Nico made the most of Spain’s mistakes and converted two penalty opportunities and Agustin Arellano added another goal to just one in reply from Spain’s Pelayo Berazadi Rózpide.

The third chukka saw Spain find their groove and Rózpide and Guiñazú combined for two goals each, while simultaneously doubling down on their defence which limited USA to just two goals from Nico Escobar and meant that by half-time USA only led by one goal, 8-7. The fourth chukka saw intense play from both sides but their enthusiasm interfered with their accuracy and each side only scored one goal each, 9-8. The fifth chukka should have been the last, but a series of mistakes from USA turned into game-changing opportunities for Spain and a 10-10 deadlock forced the Final into overtime. Both teams fiercely fought to try and get the winning goal, but in the end it was a foul from USA which gave Spain their opportunity to convert the winning goal to claim their first FIP World Polo Championship, 11-10.

First Spain Secures FIP World

The XII FIP World Polo Championship

Where: National Polo Center, Florida

The competition between the two teams was fierce in the over-time Final

XII FIP World Polo Championship Previous Winners 1987: Argentina 1989: USA 1992: Argentina 1995: Brazil 1998: Argentina 2001: Brazil 2004: Brazil 2008: Chile 2011: Argentina 2015: Chile 2017: Argentina 2022: Spain

XII FIP World Polo Championship Final Teams Spain (12) Nicolás Ruiz Guiñazu (2) Luis Domnecq Carrión (3) Pelayo Berazadi Rózpide (5) Nicolás Alvarez Cervera (2)

United States (14) Agustín Arellano (3) Lucas Escobar (4) Nicolás Escobar (5) Hope Arellano (2)

Chukka scores: 2-1, 3-6, 7-8, 8-9, 10-10, 11-10 to Spain

Steve Dalton & Steve Evans

MVP Pelayo Berazadi Rózpide celebrates his golden goal which delivered Spain their first FIP World Polo Championship title

Photography by David Lominska

Spain celebrate their XII FIP World Polo Championship win

Double Header

Hedonism

On Sunday 27 November a crowd gathered at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club to watch four exciting Finals of The HPA National Club Championships. First up, the Subsidiary Final saw Titans/Los Quirones narrowly defeat Pink Panther in the 2-4 goal level and RCBPC/ La Mariposa defeat Amos in the 10-12 goal. The next match of the day was the 4 Goal Final. Rosina took on Hedonism in their first match of the day. Due to Josh Leiva’s well-deserved recent handicap raise, Rosina started with a two goal start. Despite Ola Kelly putting another two goals on the board for Rosina, Hedonism were quick to do away with the goal difference and the first chukka ended 5-4 in favour of Hedonism. The second chukka saw hat-tricks from Nell Jacob and Royston Prisk meaning the teams were still just one goal apart at half-time. Both teams came out in the third chukka eager to take home the trophy and an end-to-end chukka had the enthusiastic spectators on the edge of their seats. Hedonism, still just one goal ahead going into the fourth and final chukka, came out firing on all cylinders and despite some excellent defence from Ola and her teammates, extended their lead by two goals. Rosina hit back with all three players scoring goals, Newman’s a brilliant two pointer, but couldn’t do enough to gain the lead. After an exciting and incredibly well supported

match Chichvarkin’s Hedonism ran out the winners of the 2022 HPA National Club Championship 2-4 goal.

As if that wasn’t enough polo for one day, the main event was yet to come. Chichvarkin took to the arena again, this time with Jack Hyde and Marcus Cork, to battle it out with Tchogan-Polo Performance. Cork came out strong scoring the first two goals of the game, both two pointers. Although Emerson and the father son duo of Heiko and Max Voelker were working hard they couldn’t stop Hedonism taking an early lead with the score board reading 9-5 at the end of the first chukka. By half-time Hedonism had extended their lead further by 1 goal. Tchogan-Polo Performance were not giving up though and all three players put goals on the board during the second half. Unfortunately for them though Hyde, working well with Cork, was able to lead

Where:

his team to victory with excellent defensive plays and some amazing accuracy on goal. By the time the final horn went Hedonism were 25-20 up meaning Chichvarkin had won his second Final of the day. Despite the goal deficit, Tchogan-Polo Performance put up a great fight and the match showcased talented players playing great polo.

10-12

Photography by RCBPC

Hedonism, winners of The HPA National Club Championship 10-12 Goal Hedonism, winners of The HPA National Club Championship 2-4 Goal

Nell Jacob reports

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The 14th Manipur Polo International

Success for in ManipurUnited Kingdom

N Ibungochoubi reports

The Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association (MHRPA) organised the 14th edition of Manipur Polo International, 2022 after a lull of two years owing to the unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic. Five teams participated: United States of America, United Kingdom, Indian Navy, India A (IPA) and India B (Manipur) and the Manipur Polo International was received and celebrated with joy and gaiety by the people, especially the sports aficionados of Manipur.

The format of the Manipur Polo International was a round robin league,

so each team had the opportunity of playing against all the participating teams. The oldest polo ground still being used in the world came to life yet again as thousands of spectators thronged the Mapal Kangjeibung. The week-long event truly signified the much-awaited event of playing the game on the original polo pony at this historic venue.

With a theme of Save the Manipuri Pony, the MHRPA has been creating an awareness among the people of Manipur to save the rare breed by organising polo tournaments and its sister organisation, Manipur Equestrian Association is conducting equestrian events for the young riders of the state. The dwindling number of Manipuri ponies in the land that gave the game of polo

to the world is becoming a serious challenge and the Manipur Polo International organised by the MHRPA assumes a greater role to generate public opinions to save the breed. The people of Manipur are proud inheritors of a great civilization. The socio-cultural heritage their ancestors left behind is a legacy, which faces an uncertain future, the challenges of keeping the traditions alive is a herculean task. While many indigenous games are practiced, Sagol Kangjei, a game played on these ponies, may be a thing of the past if the creature becomes extinct. The only solution is to let the ponies return to their natural habitats, which the so called modern and fast growing populations have encroached upon.

United Kingdom, winners of The 14th Manipur Polo International

The 14th Manipur Polo International

FINAL

29 NOV 22 NOV

Where: Manipur, India

The 14th Manipur Polo International Tournament Scores 22 November: United Kingdom beat Indian Navy, 16-0 23 November: India B beat India A, 8-3 24 November: USA beat Indian Navy, 13-6 & United Kingdom beat India A, 9-4 25 November: India B beat Indian Navy & United Kingdom beat USA, 8-3 26 November: India A beat Indian Navy, 6-2 & India B beat USA, 9-5 27 November: India A beat USA, 5-2 & India B beat United Kingdom, 8-7 29 November: Final Match – United Kingdom beat India B, 10-8

India-B (Manipur): T Pradeep Kumar, L Thomson, L Rohit, S Bimol Singh (Coach), L Atangba, P Ojit & S Sadananda

Indian Navy: Lt Cdr Kulvinder Rathee, Altar Khan, APO, Cdr Ashwani Kumar Panchal, Capt A P Singh & Lt Arun Kumar

India -A (IPA): Maj Aman Singh, Swr D Santosh, Ranshay Purohit & Syed Hurr Ali

One of the most interesting highlights of the 14th edition of the Manipur Polo International was the final match of the round robin league on Sunday 27 November between United Kingdom and India B (Manipur). Both the teams, assured of their berth in the Final, enthralled the spectators in a nail-biting finish that went in favour of the local boys over the United Kingdom (8-7). The cheers that came as a resurgence after the break of polo activities following the pandemic will reverberate for a long time and will be cherished by the people of Manipur.

During the much-awaited final match, the energetic crowd gave the spirited United Kingdom team the biggest and loudest cheer. From being 3-4 down in the first chukka, the United Kingdom team turned the match by 5-0 in the second chukka. The rest is history as the crowd cheered-inviting the United Kingdom again to defend the coveted trophy. The 10-8 win by the United Kingdom was well deserved; the team arrived two days in advance and worked hard to acquaint themselves with the playing conditions on the Manipuri ponies.

The Hurlingham Polo Association’s decision to send the team as United Kingdom instead of England encouraged the organisers for recognising the significance and importance of the Manipur Polo International, which is held every year from 22 – 29 November.

The global attention and the alarming decrease in the population of Manipuri ponies, which according to the latest report of the quinquennial livestock census is around 1,000, is a constant reminder to the present generation. The pride of having gifted the world the game of polo, the opportunity to play on the oldest polo ground and on the original polo pony makes The Manipur Polo International a unique tournament.

Hundreds of polo players from Manipur and pony owners are determined to save the almost critically endangered breed. The Manipur Polo International and the local polo tournaments organised by the MHRPA play a pivotal role in giving great momentum to the movement. The Hurlingham Polo Association and the United States Polo Association have been a source of inspiration since the inception of the Manipur Polo International in its first year 1991. The Indian Navy team making its maiden appearance in the Manipur Polo International marks yet another beginning.

However, the task ahead of the MHRPA and the people of Manipur is beyond even the wildest imagination. With the population of the Manipuri pony breed estimated to be less than 600, the apprehensions loom large as to how polo can survive in the birthplace of the game.

The 14th Manipur Polo International

United Kingdom: Jack Tucker, Philip Seller, Harry Tucker & George Amor

The 14th Manipur Polo International Final Teams

United Kingdom

Jack Tucker

Philip Seller Harry Tucker

George Amor

India B (Manipur)

T Pradeep Kumar

L Thomson

L Rohit

L Atangba

P Ojit S Sadananda

Team USA: Jorge Vasquez, JP Vasquez, Christina Boland, Nicholas Feldman & William Boland

Photography courtesy of MHRPA

Action from the Final between the United Kingdom and India B (Manipur)

The Pilar Cup Final Teams

3-3,

FINAL

OCT 10 OCT

Extra Chukka Clincher for La Irenita

The Pilar Cup Final

This year’s Pilar Cup saw 18 teams between 24-30 goals compete throughout October at several Argentine clubs which culminated in the Final at the Alfredo Lalor de Pilar Headquarters in Pilar with La Irenita vs Centaurs. La Irenita trailed throughout, but the sixth and final chukka saw the team bounce back with youthful exuberance, the average age of the team was just 23-years-old, and with three back-to-back goals they managed to tie the scores, 9-9, and push the match into an extra chukka. Halfway through the extra chukka, Antonio Heguy, the son of Pepe Heguy and grandson of Alberto Pedro, scored the winning goal to take the title for La Irenita, 10-9.

La Irentia, winners of The Pilar Cup

Where: Alfredo Lalor de Pilar Headquarters, Pilar

La Irenita (24) Antonio Heguy (5) Federico Panzillo (6) Matías Mac Donough Jr (6) Jacinto Crotto (7)

Centauros (30) Victorino Ruiz Jorba (7) Ignacio Toccalino (8) Mariano González Jr. (7) Alfredo Cappella Barabucci (8)

Chukka scores: 0-2,

5-5, 6-9, 6-9, 9-9, 10-9 to La Irenita

Photography by Matías Callejo / AAP Press

La Irenita made a last-minute comeback to push the Final into an extra chukka

Monterosso’s Win Last-Minute

The Julio Novillo Astrada Cup was established in 2004, the flagship tournament of the Novillo Astrada family’s Club is played in honour of La Aguada’s founder, don Julio Novillo Astrada. This year’s edition saw six teams up to 22 goals compete, with Monterosso and El Milagro reaching the Final match. The clash between the two teams was anticipated to be hard fought, but it was Alessandro Bazzoni’s Monterosso who got off to the stronger start, closing the first chukka 4-2. By half-time their early lead had slipped as El Milagro had worked hard to bring the scores level, 5-5. El Milagro produced three consecutive goals in the fouth chukka, courtesy of Santiago Solari (2) and a penalty conversion by Benjamin Panelo, but Monterosso bounced back and closed the gap to just one goal thanks to Cubi Toccalino and Antonio Heguy; El Milagro replied quickly to re-take their two goal lead, until Guillermo Caset converted a 60 yard penalty to end the chukka, with Monterosso

Tournament in memory of La Aguada’s founder

Photography by Adrián Melo

Monterosso, winners of The Julio Novillo Astrada Cup

Ignacio Toccalino

Best Bred Argentine Polo: Jazz Iluminada, played by Guillermo Caset

Premio River Slaney: Principio Polenta, played by Tomás Panelo

The Cámara de Diputados Cup

The Cámara de Diputados Cup is an important tournament in Argentina, with the winner entering a playoff against the eighth ranked Argentine Open team to decide which team will qualify for the 2023 Argentine Triple Crown.

This year’s Cámara de Diputados Cup saw 16 teams between 24 to 30 goal compete in four leagues – six of the teams were those who did not qualify for the 2022 Argentine Open and the other teams were the ten best teams from The Pilar Cup.

After three weeks of competition, Nuestra Tierra and El Overo Z7 UAE faced each in the Final at the AAP Headquarters,

BPP

in Pilar on Tuesday 29 November. Nuestra Tierra managed to retain their undefeated winning streak with a 12-11 victory against El Overo Z7 UAE. The win not only saw them raise The Cámara de Diputados Cup but also enter the qualifier against La Hache on Monday 5 December. La Hache, who had Tomás Beresford substituting for Joaquin Pittaluga, who has broken his right hand, defeated Nuestra Tierra and will join the other seven teams (La Dolfina Saudi, La Natividad, La Irenita Grand Champions, Ellerstina Turismo Felgueres, La Ensenada RS Murus Sanctus, Cría La Dolfina and La Irenita Clinova) who will take part in the 2023 Argentine Open.

The Cámara de Diputados Cup Final Teams

Nuestra Tierra (26)

Alejandro Muzzio (8)

Benjamín Panelo (6) Santiago Laborde (6) Jared Zenni (6)

El Overo Z7 UAE (26)

Lucas Monteverde (6)

Cruz Heguy (6)

Matías Torres Zavaleta (8) Teodoro Lacau (6)

Chukka scores: 0-2, 1-4, 5-4, 7-7, 10-7, 11-8, 12-11 to Nuestra Tierra

Where: AAP Headquarters, Pilar

Gonzalo López Vargas & Guillermo Villanueva

Cumbrecita, played by Lucas Monteverde Jr

Best Polo Argentino Bred: DS Pampa, played by Benjamín Panelo

Photography by Matías Callejo / Prensa AAP

La Dolfina Saudi Secure Historic Win

Poroto Cambiaso becomes youngest player to win

FINAL 1NOV

2 DEC

The 129th HSBC Argentine Open Final took place on a sunny afternoon in front of packed out grandstands with spectators rightly anticipating a clash between Titans and not only a rematch between the 2021 finalists La Natividad and La Dolfina Saudi, but also the tie-breaker for this year’s Triple Crown as each team had one title each (La Natividad: The Tortugas Open and La Dolfina Saudi: The Hurlingham Open). The Final was also a family filled affair as La Natividad’s line-up featured the Castagnola brothers, cousins and nephews for Poroto and Adolfo Cambiaso respectively.

The mighty La Dolfina Saudi have been in 22 Finals in the 23 Argentine Opens since the team’s inception in 2000 (only missing out in 2004) and between the four players went into the Final with 37 wins under their belts (17 for Adolfo Cambiaso, 11 for Juan Martin Nero and nine for Pelon Stirling) –would they be able to add to this tally on Friday 2 December?

The opening minutes of the Final were goalless and then youngster, Poroto Cambiaso converted two 30 yard penalties to get an early 2-0 lead for La Dolfina Saudi. Every time La Natividad tried to score in the second chukka, La Dolfina Saudi were omnipresent and locked them down, although Nachi du Plessis and Jeta Castagnola did manage to wriggle free to score in the last minute. Juan Martín Nero scored a memorable goal for La Dolfina Saudi at the start of the third chukka to give them a 4-1 advantage, but anyone who has seen the pace of these teams knows that a three goal lead is not enough to start to relax. La Natividad rapidly replied with a 30 yard penalty conversion by Jeta Castagnola, which was backed up by a phenomenal under-the-neck-shot from brother Barto Castagnola to bring them within one goal, 4-5; but true to form, La Dolfina Saudi scored again to widen the lead to 6-4. The fourth chukka saw David ‘Pelon’ Stirling firmly shutting the backdoor at the number four position, which allowed Nero to find his flair and score two spectacular goals, while La Natividad failed to find their way through and the chukka ended 8-4.

Where: Palermo, Buenos Aires

La Dolfina Saudi, winners of The 129th HSBC Argentine Open

Photography by Matías Callejo / AAP Press

After the half-time break La Natividad were still unable to settle into their usual rhythm (they usually average 15 goals per match) while La Dolfina Saudi pushed on ruthlessly and efficiently, with Adolfo Cambiaso opening the second half with a goal, followed by a fifth goal from Nero to take them to 10-5 and while glimmers of brilliance saw a goal apiece for the Castagnola brothers, La Dolfina Saudi rebuffed the majority of attacks. A goalless seventh chukka saw the scores stick on 11-7, with a last-minute resurgence still not entirely out of the question for La Nativdad, with the Castagnola brothers known for their comebacks under pressure. La Natividad’s fans’ hopes were rekindled in the last chukka with two goals from Jeta Castagnola, but goals from Stirling and Cambiaso Snr. shattered any hopes with back-to-back goals to seal the deal.

2 December was an historic day at Palermo as La Dolfina Saudi won The 129th HSBC Argentine Open with a 13-9 win against La Natividad, which made Poroto Cambiaso the youngest player in history to win the prestigious title at the age of 17 years and 6 days (he surpassed Benjamín Araya, who held the record with 17 years, 3 months and 11 days). It was also the first Argentine Open win for father-son Cambiaso duo, the last time a father-son pair won the trophy was in 1983 when Coronel Suarez II’s Horacio and Benjamin Araya won together.

The 129th HSBC Argentine Open

La Natividad trailed throughout and didn’t manage to defend their title

The 129th HSBC Argentine Open Reports

The 129th HSBC Argentine Open Final Teams

La Dolfina Saudi (39) Adolfo Cambiaso (10)

David ‘Pelon’ Stirling (10) Poroto Cambiaso (9)

Juan Martín Nero (10)

La Natividad (39) Jeta Castagnola (10)

Polito Pieres (10)

Barto Castagnola (10) Ignatius du Plessis (9)

Chukka scores: 2-0, 3-1, 6-4, 8-4, 10-6, 11-7, 11-7, 13-9 to La Dolfina Saudi

129th

Gonzalo

Awards

Javier Novillo Astrada Award to the Championship Scorer: Camilo ‘Jeta’ Castagnola (54 goals)

Rubén Sola Revelation Trophy: Tomás Panelo

Equine Promotion Cup for the Best Ridden Player in the Final: Juan Martin Nero

Gonzalo Tanoira Award for the Best Mounted Polo Player in the Competition: Adolfo Cambiaso

Fair Play Award for the Most Disciplined Player in the Tournament: Adolfo Cambiaso

Lady Susan Townley Cup for the Best Player Horse in the Final: Irenita Harinosa, played by David Stirling

Argentine Association of Polo Horse Breeders Award for Best Registered Player Product Argentine Polo Breed and Argentine Rural Society Award: Anay Sur Brandy, played by Juan Martin Nero

Gastón Lucero & Martín Pascual

HSBC Argentine Open

Heguy Trophy for the Best Player in the Final: Juan Martin Nero

Palermo’s packed grandstands

Grand Champions Polo Club

On Friday 28 October, Santa Rita defeated defending champions Casablanca in The USPA North American Cup, 12-9, after leading throughout. Nic Roldan scored five of his team’s goals and was named Most Valuable Player while Little Nell, played by Grant Ganzi in the fifth chukka and owned by Santa Rita Polo Farm, was Best Playing Pony.

Santa Rita defeated Travieso, 9-8, in the final high goal tournament of the autumn season at Grand Champions Polo Club and this was the second consecutive year Bollini and Roldan won the USPA National 20 Goal title. With a 3-0 handicap lead, Santa Rita jumped out to a 4-2 lead in the first chukka and continued to lead 5-3 and 8-4 in the first half. Travieso played catch up in the second half, shutting out Santa Rita in the fourth and sixth chukkas. Back-to-back goals by Gutierrez in the final two minutes cut the lead to one with 30 seconds left but ran out of time to mount another offensive threat.

Cowdray Park Polo Club

Juan Bollini, still playing at 60 years-old, was named Most Valuable Player and commented, “I am 60 years-old and I am going to start crying, this is too much for me, when they said my name I almost started crying. Being my age, I was very emotional. I didn’t expect it.”

The USPA North American Cup Final Teams:

Santa Rita (18): Melissa Ganzi (0), Nic Roldan (8), Alejandro Novillo Astrada (7) & Juan Bollini (3)

Casablanca (19): Tomacho Pieres (6), Jason Crowder (5), Grant Ganzi (3) & Juan Sanchez Elia (5)

USPA National 20 Goal Final Teams:

Santa Rita (16): Gene Goldstein (1), Juancito Bollini (4), Nic Roldan (8) & Juan Bollini (3)

Travieso (18/19): Tony Calle (3)/Santos Bollini (2), Sugar Erskine (6), Pedro Gutierrez (5) & Tommy Biddle (5)

Alfredo Lalor Headquarters

On Thursday 3 November, La Ensenada defeated La Natividad 13-11 in The Campaña del Desierto Final.

On Friday 4 November, Ellerstina secured The Andrés Gazzotti Cup after defeating El Trébol 12-10 in the Final.

The Campaña del Desierto Final

Teams:

La Ensenada (22): José Riglos (5), Segundo Amadori (4), Mateo Lafuente (5) & Jerónimo del Carril (8)

2022 was the Club’s busiest season in its history and excitingly, plans have been announced for a seven figure investment plan over the next five years in the Club’s grounds and equipment to ensure the highest level of playing surface. Resurfacing work on Lawns One is already underway, the Club plans to upgrade its irrigation equipment and build a new Members Hospitality Area. In addition to this, the 1.5km road network that links the pitches at Lawns will be completely resurfaced. The Ambersham Clubhouse will have a full exterior upgrade and a kitchen refit, Lawns One and Lawns Two pony lines will get new temporary covers for the season, along with upgrades to the water infrastructure. Club Chairman Andrew Swaffield commented, “We are so privileged to have one of the best Polo Clubs in the world on our doorstep here in West Sussex. Our commitment to continued major investment in the grounds and facilities will ensure the longterm success of the Club for the benefit of the whole community.”

La Natividad (23): Camilo Castagnola (10), Juan José Storni (5), Paco de Narváez (3) & Simón Zavaleta (5)

The Andrés Gazzotti Cup

Teams:

Final

Ellerstina (15): Antonio Aguerre (0), Beltrán Laulhé (3), Francisco Irastorza (6) & Santiago Irastorza (6)

El Trébol (14): Justo Llorente (1), Juan Falabella (3), Eugenio Courreges (4) & Martín Jáuregui (6)

Photography by Candace Ferreira

Santa Rita, winners of The USPA North American Cup

USPA National 20 Goal winners, Santa Rita

Photograph by Cowdray Park Polo Club

The Club has announced a seven figure investment plan

Santa Rita Polo Farm

NetJets played well as a team throughout the round robin tournament and finished their final round robin game with an 8-6 win against Sebucan to secure The Fall Classic. Larry Austin was chosen as the Most Valuable Player and commented, “It was a really fun team, we had laughs the whole game, there was great chemistry. They are just a joy playing together.”

On Tuesday 15 November, GCPC USA kept its winning streak alive with a 6-5 victory which they only secured in the last three minutes of the match for the 11th International Cup against Switzerland. Guinazu, a member of the 2022 Swiss National Team, was named Most Valuable Player after dominating the game, “I was very happy with the honour, we really enjoyed the game. We had a lot of chances to win this game. Unfortunately, it went the other way.

It was a really nice game to play. The horses were amazing, and the field was beautiful. I think we probably missed a couple of goals in some chukkas and made some mistakes. Every ball they took, they put through the goal. It was very close. We had our chances to win. It was a very close game for both of us. We would like another chance here to see if we can win next time.”

On Sunday 20 November the season came to an end at a windswept Santa Rita Polo Farm with The Banyan Cup Final between Roxbury Raiders and Aspen Valley Polo Club. Roxbury Raiders led from start to finish to defeat their opponents 8-6 with Santos Bollini named Most Valuable Player after scoring five goals in the first half. Malapata Kareoke aka Ronda, played by Juancito Bollini and owned by Santa Rita Polo Farm was chosen as the Best Playing Pony and Little Nell, played by Grant Ganzi and owned by Santa Rita Polo Farm, was selected Best Playing Pony for the season.

The Fall Classic Final Teams: NetJets (15): Jason Crowder (5), Leo Mandelbaum (2), Larry Austin (0) & Nic Roldan (8) Sebucan (15): Nick Manifold (2), Grant Ganzi (3), Juan Sanchez Elia (5) & Tommy Biddle (5)

The International Cup Teams: Switzerland (13): Luca Meier (1), Sugar Erskine (6), Tomas Ruiz Guinazu (5) & Fabio Meier (1)

GCPC USA (12): Daren Tamplin (0), Jack McLean (1), Grant Ganzi (3) & Nic Roldan (8)

The Banyan Cup Final Teams: Roxbury Raiders (12): Josh Silverman (0), Jason Crowder (5), Santos Bollini (2) & Tommy Biddle (5)

Aspen Valley Polo Club (20): Juancito Bollini (4), Sugar Erskine (6), Nic Roldan (8) & Tito Gaudenzi (2)

Beaufort Polo Club & School

The first fixture of their arena season saw Beaufort Polo School players and visiting players from Oxford Polo battle it out in a challenge across Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 October. The three teams (Oxford Polo, Chialvo Polo and Beaufort Babes) took part in a round robin with Chialvo Polo taking the overall win in The Beaufort Polo School Autumn Challenge and George French was chosen as Most Valuable Player.

Roxbury Raiders, winners of The Banyan Cup Final

GCPC USA, winners of the 11th International Cup

Photography by Candace Ferreira

NetJets, winners of The Fall Classic

Three teams took part in The Beaufort Polo School Autumn Challenge

Photograph by BPC

Houston Polo Club

Nine teams competed in The Texas Open with Whitehall Ranch and BTA reaching the Final. Whitehall took an early lead which they were able to maintain into the second half, while BTA’s Steve Krueger scored back-toback goals in the fourth chukka, followed by further goals from teammate Shane Rice saw the scores tied and the Final pushed into overtime. BTA won the first throw in, but BTA was awarded a penalty, which they narrowly missed and as the clock reached

mid-chukka, players and ponies dug deep to find their last ounces of strength. Whitehall Ranch’s Sterling Giannico broke out of the pack of players and put on the afterburners as he carried the ball at full speed, scoring the winning goal of the game.

On Sunday 13 November the Club honoured the late Penny Dillingham with The Penny Cup Subsidiary Final and Final, the perfect end to the season’s 6 Goal Fall League. The Penny Cup Final was between

La Aguada Polo Club

Polo Do defeated Piamonte, 8-4, and claimed The XIV Spring Cup on Sunday 4 December – Alejandro Traverso was named MVP, and the Fair Play Award went to Tomás Bayugar.

Chandler Ranch/ZENRG Services and Corazon Polo Team/LWR Polo, and Corazon Polo Team/LWR Polo started off on fire with some great play between Mike and Harrison Azzaro and continued to dominate throughout and ran out the winners 9-6 to take home

The Penny Cup. Mike Azzaro was named Most Valuable Player and Allie, played by Mike Azzaro was the Pro Best Playing Pony and Absolute, played by Debbie Shelton, was the Patron Best Playing Pony.

Tedworth Park Polo Club

On

BTA’s Shane Rice at full gallop during The Texas Open Final

Corazon Polo Team/LWR Polo, winners of The Penny Cup

Photography by HPC

Forbes Plunkett defeated Santa Clara 8-6 and claimed the second edition of The International Members Trophy at La Aguada Polo Club on Wednesday 30 November. The Subsidiary Trophy went to COPI, following a 12-8 win over Quito AFB. Francisco Escobar was awarded both the Fair Play Award and Sportsmanship Award.

Forbes Plunkett, winners of The International Members Trophy Polo Do, winners of The XIV Spring Cup

Photograph by Adrián Melo

Sunday 27 November, Freewarren maintained their undefeated record this season after winning an American tournament against Seriously Cool Events and Ice Lolly’s in the 4-6 goal Bayonet Trophy.

Photograph by TPPC

Freewarren with their Topspec Horse Feeds prizes

Ham Polo Club

The Club has announced that Marcus Hancock will be the new Polo Manager for the 2023 season, “Amongst the many skills Marcus brings to the job he is an experienced and qualified coach, has an impressive knowledge of polo grounds care, has a wealth of experience in stable management, is well known and well connected in the polo world and has a valuable ability to not just umpire but to train and improve our club umpires. But, most importantly, he has a fun and positive attitude to playing polo in the friendly way our Members all enjoy. Marcus is also serving as Chairman of the HPA Arena Rules Committee since 2008 as well as Chairman of the HPA Arena Handicap Committee. Additionally, he currently is serving on the board of directors for the HPA Polo and International Committee”

Druids Lodge Polo Club

The Club has announced their new Alumni Polo Lessons on Saturday afternoons at 3pm at a reduced rate of £65 for one hour 15 minutes.

Contact the Club (abi@druidspolo.co.uk) if you are interested and would like to be added to the Alumni Mailing List. The Club has also introduced their new Bring Your Friends Intro – you bring along at least two non-playing friends for their first taste of polo and you can join them for free. This will be a two hour lesson and finish with a game, the non-playing guests will pay the discounted rate of £100 each.

Beaufort Polo Club

Four teams competed in The Black Hound Sports Challenge, Longdole and Golondrina went head-to-head in the Subsidiary Final with Longdole outscoring their opponents 22-12. Meanwhile in the Final, Silverwood and Smiths battled it out in a closely contested match, which saw Smiths push through to secure the win, 19-15.

Oxford Polo’s Arena Club

first tournament as an official HPA arena club. All games over the weekend were very closely fought, with Salty Polo just snatching the overall victory beating Hind Quarters 13-12 to claim the silverware. Oxford Polo secured The Isabelle Cup Subsidiary Final with an 8-6 win against Thomson Local. The Most Valuable Player in The James Cup was awarded to Archie Heseltine and in The Isabelle Cup Subsidiary Final it was won by Madison Rochlin. The winner of The Aeneas Best Playing Pony Rug was presented to Expresso, a 14-year-old New Zealand Thoroughbred mare owned and played by Harold Hodges.

The inaugural James Cup 6 goal provided a weekend of exhilarating arena polo. The fixture, which will run each Thanksgiving weekend, was Oxford Polo’s Arena Club’s

The James Cup Final Teams: Salty Polo: James Hall, Archie Heseltine & David Ashby

Hind Quarters: Clare Ashby, India Hodges & Harold Hodges

Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club

The first AHPRC League of the season saw four teams compete over four days. The Final match had Lamar Polo quickly take over against Dubai Wolves, and the team carved a 2½ goal advantage by half-time. The team took off past half-time with subsequent goals from Guillermo Li. The Dubai Wolves delivered two goals at the final chukka, but the significant lead of Lamar Polo was enough for them to take home the trophy as the league’s champion, and the game closed at 7-4½. Li was chosen as the Most Valuable Player and Picaflor, ridden and owned by Khalid Alomran was the Best Playing Pony.

Photograph by Ham Polo Club

Marcus Hancock is the new Polo Manager for 2023

Over 2 – 6 November, six teams battled it out in The Halloween Cup at Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club, with the tournament concluding in a nail-biting 5-4 win for Bin Drai Polo against Habtoor Polo in the Final on Sunday 6 November.

Salty Polo, winners of The James Cup

Photograph by Oxford Polo’s Arena Club

Bin Drai Polo, winners of The Halloween Cup

Lamar Polo, winners of The AHPRC League

Photography by AHPRC

Smiths, winners of The Black Hound Sports Challenge

Photograph by BPC

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The Winchester Trophy

Tedworth Park Polo Club kicked off their arena military season with a trophy named after and donated by Colonel Dickie Winchester who has done so much for the Club and military polo.

The Winchester Trophy saw the RLC, Royal Navy, AMS and Veterans compete across two leagues with both games being incredibly even and it going to goal difference, but in the end the AMS team took home the trophy!

Henry Whichelo-Page stepped up to play in his first ever tournament and even scored some goals to help the AMS win the tournament.

The Club’s next military tournament is on 8 January, so get the date in your diary now.

The Teddy Roosevelt

The Teddy Roosevelt is a military tournament created by Karl Hilberg, Peter Rizzo, Rob Phipps, and Russ Sheldon in the hope of continuing to involve and immerse those in the military, or with ties to the military, in the world of polo.

Four teams took part this year (Bar Spur/ Patton Legacy Sports, Shweiki Media, Polo

InterActive and Scuderia SA) and each team had at least one player with a military connection. Shweiki Media’s Gal Shweiki was playing in the tournament for the tenth time and his experience paid off as they won the championship match against Polo InterActive to secure themselves The Teddy Roosevelt title.

The Teddy Roosevelt Teams: Bar Spur/Patton Legacy Sports: Karl Hilberg, Mark Osburn & Brady Williams

Shweiki Media: Dani Gibson, Gal Shweiki, Ariel Mancebo

Polo InterActive: Jose Velez, Joss Leufrancois & James Glew

Scuderia SA: Lauren Sterr, Wes Alston & Trey Crea

AMS team, winners of The Winchester Trophy

The RLC, Royal Navy, AMS and Veterans teams competed across two leagues

Photography by Tedworth Park Polo Club

2022 Teddy Roosevelt Champions, Shweiki Media

Bar Spur/Patton Legacy Sports’ Brady Williams on a breakaway

Photography by David Murrell

The Southwestern Circuit Women’s Arena Challenge

The Southwestern Circuit Women’s Arena Challenge was held at the Texas Military Polo Club over 15 – 16 October, with three teams entered the tournament took on a round robin format combined with continuous scorekeeping, which meant each team played two chukkas in a round robin. At the end of Saturday’s chukkas there was an overnight half-time, Elite Motion led 6-4 over LeasePlan, Bar Spur led 6-3 over LeasePlan and Bar Spur and Elite Motion remained in a 5-5 tie. The second half was played on Sunday 16 October and the last two chukkas of the day served as the Final as both Bar Spur and Elite Motion had 1-0 records and were tied at 5-5. Bar Spur ran out the winners with a score of 8-7. Elite Motion’s Audry Persano was chosen as the Most Valuable Player, and I’iwi, played by Tiamo Hudspeth and owned by Amanda and Mark Osburn, was selected as Best Playing Pony.

The Southwestern Circuit Women’s Arena Challenge Teams:

Bar Spur: Amanda Osburn, Wendy Stover & Tiamo Hudspeth

LeasePlan: Lisa Yanskey, Samantha Leech & Megan Rahlfs

Elite Motion: Lauren Sterr, Amanda Massey & Audry Persano

The La Aguada Ladies Cup

The Ladies Charity Cup

The La Aguada Ladies Cup saw six teams up to 16 goals compete across two leagues at the Novillo Astrada family’s Club, the tournament has been played since 2008 and remains a highlight of the spring season in Argentina. Ouro Fino Brasil beat El Gurí 11-8 in the Final to take the title, with Milly Hine chosen as the Most Valuable Player. Meanwhile the Subsidiary Trophy II was won by Jean-Pierre Joyeros after defeating Squad 9-7 and the Subsidiary Trophy I, went to Aruba Polo Team who took a 7-5 win over Polo Angels.

The La Aguada Ladies Cup Final Teams: Ouro Fino Brasil (16): Milagros Sanchez (7), Sofia Rivas (5), Eduarda Engler (2) & Lucia Junqueira (2) El Gurí (15): Juana Pando (2), Milly Hine (7), Olivia Jauretche (3) & Olivia Merlos (3)

Al Habtoor Polo Club kicked off its polo season with The Ladies Charity Cup which is in its fourth year. The exhibition cup supports the Al Jalila Foundation and Breast Friends during breast cancer awareness month with the pink-themed event drawing in spectators for an afternoon of polo. AM Polo defeated defending champions Hesketh Polo 5-3½ with a last-minute comeback to take the title. Her Highness Sheikha Alia Al Maktoum as the Most Valuable Player and Zuma, played by Lee Slimming was the Best Playing Pony.

Elite Motion’s Audry Persano & Bar Spur’s Wendy Stover compete for the ball

Photograph by David Murrell

Ouro Fino Brasil, winners of The La Aguada Ladies Cup

Photograph by Adrián

Melo

AM Polo, winners of The Ladies Charity Cup

Photograph by AHPRC

The Southwestern Circuit Women’s Challenge

The Southwestern Circuit Women’s Challenge Final between Chandler Ranch and Spiritless was played at Houston Polo Club on Sunday 20 November. Spiritless began with a half goal handicap advantage, but by half-time Chandler Ranch had managed to take the lead, 3-2½ after two goals in quick succession from Megan Flynn and Tiamo Hudspeth. However, Spiritless managed to hold Chandler Ranch goalless for the entire

second half, while Spiritless’ Cara Kennedy was able to score in both the third and fourth chukkas to take the win, 4½-3. Grace Mudra was awarded Most Valuable Player for her performance in both attack and defence, Indigo Wood, played by Tiamo Hudspeth and owned by Bobby McCan, was awarded Best Playing Pony Professional and Peanut, played by Cara Kennedy and owned by Colleen Williams, was awarded Best Playing Pony Amateur.

Spiritless:

The U.S. Open Women’s Handicap

Both finalists had met earlier in the tournament when BCI/Alliant defeated QR Jets, so there was all to play for come the Final on Friday 18 November. Grace Mudra, Lily Lequerica, KC Krueger and Sarah Wiseman lost out in last year’s Texas Women’s Open (playing under the team name Engel & Volker’s Houston) and returned to the Club with the same team and same coach as in 2021, Sarah Wiseman commented, “We’re not letting this happen again”. After their loss to BCI/Alliant earlier in the tournament, QR Jets tweaked their tactics and knew they had to be more disciplined and mark effectively. BCI/Alliant received a two goal handicap advantage, but QR Jets managed to stifle their goal scoring and by half-time had taken a 4-3 lead. After a regroup and team chat, BCI/Alliant responded with two unanswered goals from Sophie Grant to take

the lead, but QR Jets outscored in the final chukka and secured themselves a 7-5 victory. For Grace Mudra this was her third title, having also won in 2016 and 2017. Sarah Wiseman was chosen as the Most Valuable Player, Theresa, owned and played by KC Krueger was the Best Playing Pony Amateur and Don Juan, played and owned by Maddie Grant was the Best Playing Pony.

The U.S. Open Women’s Handicap Final Teams:

QR Jets: Grace Mudra, Lily Lequerica, KC Krueger & Sarah Wiseman

BCI/Alliant: Cara Kennedy, Sophie Grant, Maddie Grant & Anna Winslow-Palacios

UK End of Season Handicap Changes

The Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) has announced the women’s handicap changes following the end of the 2022 outdoor season in the UK and also the new outdoor handicaps for mixed tournaments, which will come into effect on 1 January 2023. Anyone not handicapped at this meeting will start with either their mixed handicap conversion, highest women’s handicap in the world or previous handicap (whichever is higher). The

full list of handicap changes can be viewed at hpa-polo.co.uk but some of the highlights include:

8 to 9 goals: Candelaria Fernandez Araujo

7 to 8 goals: Milly Hine

5 to 6 goals: Azucena Uranga

4 to 5 goals: Lucy Keen and Olivia Merlos

3 to 4 goals: Sheika Maitha

2 to 3 goals: Sheikha Alya Al Maktoum

The Southwestern Circuit Women’s Challenge Final Teams: Chandler Ranch: Megan Flynn, Tiamo Hudspeth, Stephanie Massey Colburn & Roxy Mounter

Jenna Davis, Cara Kennedy, Grace Mudra & Kaile Roos

Photograph by ©Kaylee Wroe

A smiling Spiritless team of Kaile Roos, Jenna Davis, Cara Kennedy & Grace Mudra

QR Jets, winners of The U.S. Open Women’s Handicap

Sarah Wiseman was named Most Valuable Player

Photography by Houston Polo Club

The VI HSBC Women’s Argentine Open Final took place in Palermo between La Dolfina and La Irenita E-Movility on Friday 2 December before The 129th HSBC Argentine Open Final.

La Dolfina has taken part in every Women’s Argentine Open since the tournament’s beginning and the team experience showed as they got off to a strong start, leading 3-0 in the first chukka after two goals from Nina Clarkin and one from Milagros Fernández Araujo. By half-time, underdogs La Irenita E-Movility had managed to chalk one goal onto the chalkboard, but La Dolfina had been busy as well with two goals of their own, meaning the scoreboard read 5-1 going into half-time.

La Irenita E-Movility took the break to regroup and the second half saw them work their way back into the match – Milagros Sanchez and Hope Arellano scored a goal each which helped to close the gap. However, La Dolfina refused to ease off the gas and with

just one chukka left to play held a 7-4 lead. The sixth chukka was exhilarating as La Irenita E-Movility refused to give up and managed to narrow the gap down to two goals and with time left on the clock it looked like the match may run into over-time. Tournament top goal scorer, Nina Clarkin, had other ideas and a goal tally to add too and mercilessly scored back-to-back goals to take the score to 10-6 and well out of reach of a comeback for La Irenita E-Movility.

This win was La Dolfina’s fourth title in six years (in 2019 and 2020 they were runners-up), but still an achievement for La Irenita E-Movility who took part in the prestigious Final for the first time.

21 NOV

La Dolfina, winners of The VI HSBC Women’s Argentine Open

Where: Palermo, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Photography by Matías Callejo / AAP Press

Nina Clarkin MVP

goals 27

Tournament Top Goal Scorer: Nina Clarkin (27 goals)

The VI HSBC Women’s Argentine Open Final Teams

La Dolfina (33)

Mía Cambiaso (7)

Milagros Fernández Araujo (7) Nina Clarkin (10)

Candelaria Fernández Araujo (9)

La Irenita E-Movility (29)

Milagros Sánchez (7) Izzy Parsons (8) Hope Arellano (8) Fátima Balzano (6)

Chukka scores: 3-0, 4-0, 5-1, 5-3, 7-4, 10-6 to La Dolfina

BPP BPP

AAP Award for the Best Playing Pony of the Final: Hunch, played by Candelaria Fernández Araujo

AACCP

Fourth Win for La Dolfina

Ladies

Nina Clarkin named MVP

Award for the Best Argentine Polo Breed: Dolfina Buenavida, played by Mía Cambiaso

Martín Aguerre & Rafael Silva

Milagros Fernández Araujo, Nina Clarkin & Candelaria Fernández Araujo celebrate their win

Halloween Youth Trophy

13 Pony Club teams mounted up on their broomsticks for some spooky half term fun at Tedworth Park Polo Club for an Area 14 Pony Club tournament organised by Bethan Hitchman and Trini Stanhope-White. 21 chukkas were played, from Jorrocks to

Loriner. There were some fantastic fancy dress outfits, including an appearance from Dracula and ponies painted as skeletons. Bev Nicholls, Jane Boers and Charlie Hitchman helped on the day and Lolly Stanhope-White umpired all 21 chukkas despite the rain,

witches, ghosts, and pumpkins!

The next Area 14 Pony Club Tournament to be held at Tedworth Park is on Wednesday 21 December – The Christmas Tournament. All Pony Club entries are done online through Horse Events.

Surtees winners, South Dorset Wizards

Joint 1st Fancy Dress winners, The South Dorset Witches & The Beaufort

Jorrocks winners, Beaufort

Loriner winners, Royal Artillery

JOPPS winners, Dorset

13 Pony Club teams were hosted at Tedworth Park Polo Club

Photography courtesy of Tedworth Park Polo Club

Friendly Arena Tournament

On an unseasonably sunny Sunday 20 November, 28 teams descended upon Oxford Polo Arena Club for a SUPA Friendly Arena Tournament. With 47 chukkas taking place over the course of the day, the first players took to the arena at 9am.

The day was aimed at getting as many of the children who do not get an opportunity to play polo outside of lessons, playing in a friendly tournament before the challenge of the Championships in 2023. There was an abundance of players new to the game as well as many familiar faces. All players went home happy with Christmas chocolates and a copy of Polo Times

SUPA’s Gill Glimmerveen commented, “The new arena was amazing and with great team work from David, Hector, the Oxford

polo team and SUPA stewards Caroline, Nigel, Luke and Gill, the event ran smoothly and even finished slightly early. Thank you for our continued support from RJ polo, Black hound Sports and Polo Times. We look forward to the next SUPA schools’ tournaments in 2023”

SUPA Friendly Arena Tournament

Results:

Junior Beginners

1st – Cothill Blue

2nd – Heathfield Emeralds

3rd – Dragon Blue

Junior Novice

1st – Sandroyd

2nd – Cothill White

3rd – Papplewick

Junior Intermediate

1st – Cothill Maroon

2nd – Papplewick Blue

3rd – Felsted Prep

Senior Beginners

1st – Stowe Lions

2nd – Wycombe Abbey Beginners

3rd – St Marys 2

Senior Novice

1st – Wellington College Novice

2nd – St Marys 3

3rd – Felsted Novice

Senior Intermediate

1st – Rugby 2nd – Stowe Yellow

3rd – Wellington College Intermediate

Matches began at 9am and 47 chukkas were played over the day

Photography by @poloimages

The St. Mary’s Girls with their Polo Times prizes Player enjoyed an unseasonably mild and sunny November day of polo

Photograph by Nancy Booth

The first tournament of the new academic year kicked off on the weekend of 12 – 13 November at Rugby Polo Club. The Uni Challenge is designed for beginner players to experience their first tournament. However, over the years, it has gradually included more experienced players, who see it as a curtain-raiser for the February Winter Nationals.

With a total of 48 teams the numbers were

roughly the same as last year, with a good turnout of beginner and median teams. SUPA also trialled a new automated system, aimed at making the days a lot simpler for both players and organisers. Everyone had access to an app that showed them the state of play at any given time of day. It also produced chukka lists and start times for day two which was useful for players, coaches and horse hirers. The trial went

extremely well, and the system will be rolled out at all future SUPA University polo events, also eventually extending to schools’ tournaments.

Nottingham had the strongest showing with winners in two university divisions, plus a Combined win. Everyone had a great time over the two days and both SUPA and Rugby Polo Club look forward to welcoming everyone to Winter Nationals in February 2023.

SUPA 2023 Arena Dates

The Junior Schools National Arena Championships will be played at the Oxford Polo Arena on Sunday 5 February and is open to children in Years 4-8 with divisions for beginners, novice, intermediate and open abilities. Tournament entries open on Wednesday 4 January with a maximum team capacity of 26 teams, after which team entries will close.

The Senior Schools National Arena Championships will be played at Rugby Polo Club on Sunday 5 March and is open to Years 9-13, also with divisions for beginner, novice, intermediate and open abilities. Entries will open on Monday 9 January. On the same day as

Argentine Youth Open

On Wednesday 30 November Mia Cambiaso made history as the first woman to win the tournament, which she did alongside her brother Poroto Cambiaso (who won the tournament in 2021), her cousin Jeta Castagnola (who won the tournament in 2018, 2019 and 2021) and Benjamin Panelo after they defeated La Natividad 9-3. The tournament saw three teams made up of players aged up to 21-years-old take part. Poroto Cambiaso was later named as Most Valuable Player.

La Natividad (26): Camilo Castagnola (10), Mía Cambiaso (1), Adolfo Cambiaso (9) & Benjamín Panelo (6) Chapaleufú (21): Lucas Monteverde (6), Antonio Heguy (5), Silvestre Heguy (4) & Cruz Heguy (6)

the Senior Schools National Arena Championships there will also be a Ladies school tournament with novice and beginner divisions, you can use the Senior School fixture form to enter.

The Argentine Youth Open Final Teams:

Photograph by AAP

La Natividad, winners of The Argentine Youth Open

Fractured and Dislocated Shoulder

Fix it or leave it?

Upper extremity injuries are common and resulting problems are either stiffness or instability. One of the best-known examples is the young Winston Churchill who injured himself while being a Cavalry Officer, “We came alongside of a great stone wall with dripping steps and iron rings for handholds. The boat rose and fell four or five feet with the surges. I put out my hand and grasped at a ring; but before I could get my feet on the steps the boat swung away, giving my right shoulder a sharp and peculiar wrench.” Churchill wrote that this injury was to last him all his life. It would “cripple me at polo… prevent me from ever playing tennis, and [prove] a grave embarrassment in moments of peril, violence and effort.” In fact, as he noted in November 1897, he suffered a total dislocation as he “slipped on a stone stair” prior to competing in the InterRegimental Polo Tournament in Meerut, India in 1899. Despite this handicap, his regimental team won the tournament, Churchill scoring two goals with his right elbow strapped to his torso with a leather harness! All this personal misery is well documented at the international Churchill society. As you can read there – a simple slip can change the whole sporting life of an ambitious polo player. Current advantages in treatment possibilities, with new techniques in shoulder stabilization give far more favourable results with stability and adequate range of motion.

Injury Pattern

A dislocated shoulder is an injury in which the upper arm bone pops out of the cupshaped socket that’s part of the shoulder blade. The shoulder is the body’s most flexible joint, which makes it more likely to dislocate. The anterior shoulder dislocation is the most common injury. Due to the anterior impact the joint capsule and the rim of the shoulder is prone to injury. This happens

with falls on an outstretched arm or during the swing when the mallet is stopped by an opponent. When a dislocation happens in a high-speed environment or with an external impact, shoulder fractures may also occur. Nerve or blood vessel damage in or around the shoulder joint may also take place. Shoulders can also become more prone to repeat dislocations, especially if the injury is severe.

CT picture after dislocation with fracture of the socket rim.

Medical Insight: Polodoc

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

Humerus head with impact and displaced fragment

CT picture with large fragment of the lower anterior rim of the cup

Bone block procedure with screw fixation

Latarjet bone block fixation with screw fixation

Diagnostics

Initial clinical examination on the field can be difficult due to extraordinary pain.

Dislocated shoulder symptoms can include:

• A visibly deformed or out-of-place shoulder

• Swelling or bruising

• Intense pain

• Inability to move the joint Secondary examination follows in the hospital with an X-ray to see whether the shoulder is still dislocated or if it was subluxated without any additional bony injury. To fully assess the soft tissue an additional MRI is needed. If the primary conventional X-ray reveals a suspect bony injury a secondary CT can be helpful to precisely detect the extend.

Treatment

First time dislocations without any bony injury can be treated conservatively. Physiotherapy with muscle stabilisation and a structured return to full motion can be successful when done properly. A bandage with restriction of abduction and external rotation (full swings limited) can be helpful. With recurrent dislocation occurring an operation with soft tissue repair is required. When primary or secondary bone damage is present a more invasive bone block procedure is

Suture of the labrum (soft tissue) with bone anker

needed to achieve stability. When scarring or capsule stiffness occurs, there can be a restriction of the free range in the upper sector or in combination with external rotation, which can be limiting to perform a nice swing.

Recommendation

First time dislocation can be very successfully treated conservatively. Meticulous work up of all dimensions of the injury is recommended to precisely indicate the adequate treatment pathway. Current research shows a lower recrudescence rate when bone block procedures are performed.

For more information on Polodoc contact Andreas Krüger at drmedkrueger@gmail.com or www.polodoc.ch

Medical Insight: Polodoc

MRI picture with soft tissue injury of the capsule

MRI picture with impression on the head

MRI picture with lesion of the capsule and partial bone injury to the lower anterior rim of the cup

Soft tissue repair with Pushlock anker fixation

Lorna Edgar – specialist equine nutritionist

How do we decide when a horse is old and then when is it too old to play polo anymore? So often you hear that when they reach their teens they are ‘over the hill’, but are they really? Surely if they are sound and willing they have many more chukkas to offer? This is what I love seeing during my visits, older horses playing and doing what they love and are still a valued member of a string! When they make the step down from playing higher levels of polo they are often worth their weight in gold, being school masters for those beginning polo or playing at the lower levels. Sometimes they can take a little while to adjust to a slower game and a change in management, but once their quirks and foibles are catered for, they have lots to offer!

Our Aged Friends

Age is just a number? You are as old as you feel

I recently visited Max Charlton’s horses that are in for the arena season. His favourite mare, Pixie, who is 17 years ‘young’, is back in work, looking fantastic and by all accounts, feeling great too. For the years I have worked with Max, a lot of his horses remain in his string for a long time and he feels that the horses let you know when they have had enough. They will take a little longer to recover from games and feel a little stiffer, but with careful management and not such long breaks over the winter they often prove to be invaluable in his string, even when playing Max’s level, on grass and in the arena.

Another client, Jo Stuart, has several older polo ponies, some retired and some still playing polo with her son Leo. There are those that hold their condition very well, and those that don’t whose diets need to be ‘tweaked’ frequently to provide the right calories and energy. Jo finds that those still playing are the ones who show a willingness, with regular physiotherapy treatments and exercise routines tailored to their individual needs. Combined with some extra TLC they continue to thrive and have been invaluable in helping Leo to learn and develop in his polo.

So, what considerations do we need to take into account with working older horses? I will still look at body condition, muscle development and temperament just as I would for a young horse or a 10-year-old. There are extra considerations to think about of course, as mentioned below, but I feel you don’t need to feed a ‘senior feed’ if there is no need to. I still want to feed the horse that I see in front of me and the expectations of the work that is required of it, rather than let age dictate the diet.

Extra Considerations for the Older Horse in Work Condition

Are they holding their condition well? If so, they will most likely do well on a balancer and good quality forage. However, if they are not holding their condition so well, we would

Photograph by polopictures.co.uk

Leo Stuart, playing Brugee this summer

Brugee is 20 years old and is fed No.24 Ease & Excel Cubes, Performance Balancer, Outshine, Fibre Beet, Alfa Oil &

Photograph by Jo Stuart

need to think of a conditioning feed, such as a Conditioning Cube or Mix. Sometimes, those horses that have been played higher levels of polo take some time to adapt to the lower levels and can be quite highly strung, so getting them turned out on grass as much as possible, allowing them plenty of ad lib hay and feeding a low starch, high fibre, high oil feed, such as Baileys Ease & Excel to still provide calories, is ideal and will often help to calm them a little more – their own natural energy and experience in their job will be supported rather than enhanced!

If they are lacking top line and muscle there might be problems mechanically and conformationally where they have compensated in their way of going, but just because they are older isn’t an excuse for them to look weaker – we just need to make changes to support them. Are they on the right type and quantities of feed to support them? Perhaps they drop their condition a little easier now, so we need to think ahead and tweak the diet to help.

I thought I would mention arthritis under the condition section as it is a subject I get asked about, but actually it is a conversation to have with your vet. Nutritionally, if you are providing a balanced diet that is supplying adequate amounts of protein (please refer to November issue of Polo Times) the muscle, tendons and ligaments will be strong enough to maintain stability in the joints. Talking to your vet regarding supplements is the best option, from what I have heard from clients over the years the efficacy of joint supplements really does seem to vary from one individual to another.

Teeth

How are their teeth? Have they had regular dental checks and are there any changes occurring with the teeth that will affect how the horse chews? I am always asking about teeth for the old and young as too often they

get forgotten, but they are the beginning of digestion. If the teeth are not functioning well it will hinder absorption of nutrients further on down the digestive tract and often cause disturbances in the hind gut, leading to more hard feed being fed than should necessarily be required.

If poor teeth are a problem, we can still feed them concentrate feed to maintain calories. I often find conditioning mixes being fed in these instances – however, mixes are often not ideal for those with poor teeth as they tend not to be chewed properly, increasing the risk of cereals reaching the hind gut and therefore the risk of colic or laminitis.

In fact, conditioning cubes are preferable as they can be softened with some water or beet pulp to become a gruel which is easier to digest and utilise. Alternatively, you can look at feeding a ‘mash’ type of feed which again will be easier for chewing and digestion.

Older horses can begin to quid, making boluses of their forage (hay/haylage), and spitting it out after they have attempted to chew it. In these cases, to ensure adequate levels of fibre are being consumed, look to feed short chopped chaffs and beet pulps. I would always encourage some hay or haylage to be provided in the stable so they can still go through the motions of eating even if they are not able to utilise it – always good for their psychology and need to chew.

Forage

Something that I am always going on about for any horse is the forage/fibre element of their diet, whether they hold their body condition well or not. For those in hard work and playing regularly, the quality and digestibility of the forage can really have an impact on the type of hard feed you need to feed – and the amounts!

For those older horses that are not holding their weight so well, it really is worth investing in a forage that is more digestible

– more leaf and less stem. But the opposite applies for ‘good doers’ – more stem and less leaf – as they will not extract so many nutrients from it as effectively, thus keeping the calories under control.

Should their droppings become loose then it’s worth thinking about whether they are receiving enough fibre in their diet – are they eating up the forage being offered, how digestible is it to them and are they able to utilise it efficiently?

Pre & Probiotics

The beneficial bacteria in the hind gut can become disrupted as the horse gets older, especially if they have problems with their teeth and they are not chewing their fibre effectively or not receiving enough of it – or just from previous management in busy yards and being in hard work.

Should they exhibit loose, pungent (quite acidic smelling) or very fibrous droppings, I would look at providing a prebiotic and probiotic supplement to try and stabilise the beneficial fibre-digesting bacteria in the hind gut as these can assist in it utilising the fibre element of the diet more effectively. Supplements such as Protexin Gut Balancer, Protexin Quick Fix or Science Supplements Gut Balancer, I have worked with successfully, but there are many more on the market!

EMS & PPID (Equine Metabolic Syndrome & Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction)

As the horse gets older it can develop metabolic disorders such as EMS which leaves the horse predisposed to laminitis from insulin dysregulation, or PPID (more commonly known as Cushings) which can also leave the horse susceptible to laminitis as it can exacerbate insulin resistance.

Older polo ponies that have either of these conditions can remain in work with success if they are managed correctly –keeping the diet low in starch is imperative, so balancers or low starch condition feeds such as Baileys Ease & Excel are ideal.

Considering the Water Soluble Carbohydrate (WSC) content of the forage is also essential to ensure the horse does not have a high sugar intake. Sometimes when on treatment for Cushings (Prascend®) the horse can lose its appetite so making changes to the feed to make it more palatable will need to be considered, especially when in work.

To manage horses with any of these conditions I would strongly recommend speaking to a nutritionist for guidance with their diets and of course your vet for guidance on medication and so forth.

Finally, from one ageing ‘old mare’, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy 2023!

Contact Lorna Edgar of Baileys Horse Feeds on lorna@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

Photograph by Kathrin Gralla/ SWPC

Max Charlton’s Pixie, 17-years-old, plays in the summer and winter arena and a favourite of Max’s. She is fed three scoops of Conditioning Cubes per day, with ad lib forage – Pixie won BPP at the 2022 Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz

Chukka Wellness

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

Rider Recovery

End of season aches & pains

As the end of 2022 draws in, I’m sure many of you will be suffering with a few body aches and pains. It’s been a very busy year for polo in the UK with many players lucky enough to have a full schedule of tournaments. However back-to-back games can take its toll on the body and mental state. You may be feeling fatigued, mentally drained and suffering with a few injuries. Now is the time to address these issues and prepare the body for 2023!

Step 1: Allow your body to relax with some yoga and deep breathing

Incorporate a 10 minute stretching session into the daily routine and finish it with 10 deep breathes.

Add in stretches that target specifically the polo muscles such as the back, legs, shoulders and hips.

If completing these movements at the beginning of the day; keep them dynamic moving in and out of each stretch to avoid any tearing of the muscle fibres.

The Pigeon

This focuses on stretching the back, hip flexors and glute muscles.

Standing Shoulder Stretch

This controlled movement stretches the shoulders and chest muscles

Low Lunge

This opens up the hip flexors allowing for more movement through the pelvis which allows the glutes to activate more effectively.

• Reducing blood pressure.

• Reducing heart rate.

1. Lie on your back on a flat surface or in bed, with your knees bent and your head supported. You can use a pillow under your knees to support your legs.

2. Place one hand on your upper chest and the other just below your rib cage. This will allow you to feel your diaphragm move as you breathe.

3. Breathe in slowly through your nose so that your stomach moves out, causing your hand to rise. The hand on your chest should remain as still as possible.

4. Tighten your stomach muscles, so that your stomach moves in, causing your hand to lower as you exhale through pursed lips.

Lying Back Stretch

You will feel a release through the mid to lower back and glute muscles

Low lunge

Step 2: Create a calmer mental state

Legs up the Wall Pose

As well as stretching out the leg, inner thighs and hamstrings; this pose activates the parasympathetic nervous system helping to create a calmer mental state.

Lie in this position for a maximum of 10 minutes and incorporate some deep diaphragmic breathing.

Diaphragmatic breathing offers several benefits to the body including:

• Helping you relax.

• Improving muscle function during exercises and preventing strain.

• Increasing how much oxygen is in your blood.

• Making it easier for your body to release gas waste from your lungs.

Step 3: Address Any Injuries

Riders may have suffered from a few falls, knocks and muscle strains throughout the 2022 season resulting in some injuries.

Many people ignore the issues and carry on as usual but nine times out of 10 this will backfire and the individual could be left with long-term damage, body imbalances and a shortened playing career.

Use the downtime over December to see a health professional and receive advice on any injuries (a doctor, physio or chiropractor)

The Pigeon

Lying back stretch

Legs up the wall pose

Step 4: Recuperate and Rebuild

Once these injuries have been addressed, focus on rebuilding your body with riderspecific exercises.

Our Chukka Wellness App has just launched and is full of mobility and stretching routines designed to create a supple body.

We have also created 20-30 minute riderspecific workouts which focus on stabilising the joints and strengthening the muscles to improve posture and bulletproof the body from further injuries!

• Gain access to our rider-specific workout programmes via the Chukka Wellness App (available in the Apple Store now)

• Login each day to access mobility routines, rider-specific workouts and a variety of stretches

• Choose from the different fitness levels; Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced

• Boost your experience in the App by tracking your fitness progress. Either connect to a body scale or manually check-in to log your body composition.

• Push your limits by competing against yourself or fellow riders in our set challenges

• Stay motivated by setting yourself goals in the App and receive regular morale-boosting messages from CW founder India

The Chukka Wellness App has just launched

Visit www.chukkawellness.co.uk choose your membership and then download our App in the App store

Photography by India Parker Smith

Playing tips with Rege Ludwig Use of the Player’s Lower Legs

Your lower legs serve two major functions; the first is to energise the horse’s hindquarters. From that perspective, you should squeeze, tap, or kick the horse’s sides with your lower legs to generate energy in the horse’s hindquarters that is equal to the intensity with which you want the horse to execute whatever the manoeuvre might be i.e., accelerate, decelerate, or change direction.

The second function is to serve as a counterbalancing mechanism to your upper body. For example, when moving your upper body forward and down to accelerate, your lower legs should move back and up correspondingly to counterbalance the movement of your upper body moving forward and down.

Because your feet ultimately affect how you use the rest of your body, a discussion on the use of your lower legs would not be complete without mentioning the use of the feet.

1. By way of your toes being turned up and your heels being pushed down, your feet affect how strongly you can grip with your upper legs to establish and maintain a secure and stable riding and/or hitting platform, i.e., Toes up/ Heels down, and the Pyramid Affect

2. Your feet affect how you can use your lower legs as an energizing source for the purpose of developing power in the horse’s hindquarters, i.e., squeeze, tap, or kick.

3. Your feet and lower legs affect your ability to control your upper body balance and movement in a counter balancing manner, similar to the way you use a Joy Stick.

I feel quite safe in stating that if polo players were to use their lower legs more correctly, including feet, the overall level of polo throughout the world would improve perceptively. That is true because, how you use your lower legs directly affects the balance and the stability of your upper body, and the intensity with which the horse responds to you as you are requesting of the horse to accelerate, decelerate, or change direction.

Your lower legs are used primarily as an energizing source to create impulsion in the horse’s hindquarters for the purpose of driving the back legs forward and under the horse’s body. The back legs being forward and under the horse’s body is significant from the perspective that one of the more critical aspects of a good accelerate, decelerate or change in direction manoeuvre is for the horse to be able to balance and support itself throughout any of those manoeuvres.

Contrary to the generally accepted belief that the player’s feet and lower legs should be forward during the decelerating process, I strongly urge you to consider that your lower legs should be back to where they are at least to the front and lower edge of the Sweet Spot, which is an area along the

horse’s sides that your lower legs move within when requesting of the horse to accelerate, decelerate, or change direction. A principal reason for your lower legs being back is to energize the horse’s hind quarters; which, they cannot do when they are forward toward the horse’s shoulders.

Continuing with the cannot line of thinking, you cannot pull the horse’s front end back with your hands when decelerating the horse. What you can do, however, is: drive the horse’s hind legs forward with your lower legs, while supporting the front end with a degree of pressure on the reins that is consistent with the intensity of the desired decelerating effort.

Accelerate

vs Decelerate

Do not be confused with the statement that your lower legs should be back to decelerate the polo horse, when I have said that they

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

Toes up/Heels down

Pyramid Affect

Joy Stick Affect

The Sweet Spot

should be back and up along the horse’s sides to accelerate the horse.

An appropriate question at this point could be, how in the world can the lower legs be used in the same manner to accomplish two completely opposite manoeuvres, i.e., accelerate versus decelerate?

The answer is quite simple. The horse’s hind legs should be forward and under its body for the purpose of both accelerating and decelerating. From that perspective, your lower legs are used to energize the horse’s hind quarters for the purpose of driving its back legs forward and under its body in a manner that is conducive to both accelerating and decelerating.

For the purpose of accelerating, your lower legs should be back and up within the Sweet Spot to the degree of the desired rate of acceleration. The faster the rate of acceleration, the further back and up your lower legs should be within the Sweet Spot.

Lower Leg: Pyramid Effect

The majority of your weight in the stirrups should be on the medial, or inner, side of each foot, i.e., the big ball. The majority of the weight in the stirrups should be there for the purpose of establishing and maintaining a wide base of support, i.e., Pyramid Effect. By having the majority of the weight in the stirrups on the medial side of your feet, your upper legs are being pushed in towards the horse. That, in turn, increases your upper leg gripping strength, which enhances upper body balance control.

To accomplish having the weight in the stirrups on the medial side of your feet; turn your heels out and away from the horse sides and push your feet out and away ever so slightly further. That manoeuvre also causes your upper legs to turn in towards the horse’s shoulders to be creating a strong upper leg gripping effort. Once those two things have been done, lift your little toes laterally up and away from the horse’s sides to the point that the soles of your boots are beginning to face out and away from the horse’s sides. Accelerate

For the purpose of decelerating, your lower legs should be back to the point of your toes being under the center of your knees. At that point, your lower legs are back far enough to contact the horse’s sides with sufficient power to drive its hind legs forward to decelerate.

Decelerate

Lower Legs: Sweet Spot

I am well aware that a majority of people who ride horses are not accustomed to having their lower legs back and up along the horse’s sides to the degree that the polo player must, at times, have their lower legs positioned. However, I predict a most pleasant and productive experience for the polo player who learns to apply their lower legs appropriately back and up along the horse’s sides within the area of the Sweet Spot when the situation necessitates; such as accelerating.

The Sweet Spot starts just behind the girth approximately twelve inches up from the bottom of the horse’s visceral cavity. The front and lower edge of the Sweet Spot is where your lower legs fit when in the half-seat position. From that point, the Sweet Spot extends back and up along the horses’ sides towards the hipbones.

With your lower legs properly placed within the forward half seat position, your toes should be under the centre of your knees. With your lower legs back that far, the back inside edge of your lower legs will be contacting the front and lower edge of the Sweet Spot. With your lower legs in that position, you will have enough power in your lower legs to energize the horse’s hind quarters for the purpose of driving its hind legs forward to decelerate. Reference above Sweet Spot illustration

Relative to accelerating, as your lower legs move back and up towards the horse’s hipbones they are getting into a more sensitive, or sweeter area on the horse’s sides, hence the term Sweet Spot. Because of that, the horse is more responsive to the use of the player’s lower legs, and will respond more readily as your lower legs get closer to the top of the Sweet Spot, near the horse’s hip bones.

Upper leg turned in/Heels out Weight in

Many years ago, I asked a veterinarian why horses seem to be more sensitive, and become increasingly reactive, the further back and up along the horse’s sides the player’s lower legs apply pressure.

His explanation was, “It is nature at work. On an animal of prey, such as a deer or a horse, that area is where a predator, such as a lion, will try to grab when attacking. Consequently, animals of prey are instinctively more reactive to that part of their body being molested and as a result, they run faster”.

I fully realize that use of the lower legs is a topic that polo players generally give little consideration to. However, because of the response the lower legs illicit from the polo horse, being aware of that effect is a topic well worth whatever consideration you may put into understanding it, and using it.

When all is said and done, a foot of space or a quarter of a second of time can be the difference between winning or losing a play. And, the way you use lower legs directly affects the use of space and time and in the results of winning or losing a play.

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 two 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

Banish Blame to Win the Game

Don’t let your mind interfere with your polo performance

If there’s one thing that has been fundamental to the continued success and growth of every polo team I have coached, it is the full engagement of the entire team, on and off the field.

This means creating a team culture in which everyone has the opportunity to develop and fulfil their potential, regardless of role, age, experience and handicap.

Yes, every team wants to win trophies, but let’s enjoy doing it – enthuse, feel good about ourselves and do the very best for each other.

So how do some polo teams manage to breed fear and insecurity in their players,

draining them of their energy and power?

In a word, it’s BLAME. A blame culture compromises relationships, railroads performance and terrorises the joy of playing polo.

We can all recognise how blame manifests itself in polo:

• The team argues with each other about poor play, giving away technicals, missed penalties, lost games

• Players ignore their own shortcomings and instead moan about their horse, the weather, the state of the field, the umpire, the tactics, the training, the coach, the patron

• The occasional patron or coach has been known to say things like ‘unless we start performing and winning, I’m going to have to make changes…’

I often find myself talking about the negative impact of a ‘self-serving bias’ with my polo clients. This occurs when a player is quick to take credit for themselves when things go well but lays blame on other players or circumstances when things don’t go so well.

Blaming someone or something for your problems is the ultimate cop out, the path of least resistance – it won’t fix anything! Worse still, psychological and human science studies point to all kinds of ongoing harm that a blame mentality can have upon our mental and physical health:

Team engagement on and off the field is important for success

Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

•

Your power

According to Dr Martin Seligman, the father of positive psychology, if every bad thing is someone else’s fault, it contributes to a state of ‘learned helplessness’ which means you lose the power to change anything. If you’re in a polo rut, you’ll stay in it.

• Your personal growth

Blame is a defence. Constantly defending yourself shuts you down to what others can offer you in terms of advice, wisdom and growth. You’ll struggle to learn anything from other outstanding players and coaches.

•

Your empathy

When you blame others instead of taking personal responsibility for your behaviour, you will never speak truthfully and openly about how you feel, and it means you are unlikely to listen and accept how others feel. You won’t seek to understand, or seek to be understood, by your team.

•

Healthy relationships

Blame pushes people away from you and creates a trustless environment in which others can’t relax and speak their mind in fear of being judged and devalued. Peak polo performance relies upon trust.

• Your positive influence on yourself and your team

Blame is like a virus in polo. If you blame, others are likely to take part in the blame game too. Blamers are found to be more ego defensive and insecure. The more you blame, the less your sense of self-worth.

•

Your health

Negative emotions such as blame lead to ‘biological dysregulation’. It stimulates cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, and adrenaline, the hormone that prepares your sympathetic nervous system to fight or flee.

An excess of these chemicals can lead to burnout, emotional exhaustion, aggravated depression, anxiety, phobias, shyness, loneliness – none of which improve a polo player’s ability to step up to the next level.

Mind the Gap and Banish Blame

Taking responsibility for our actions and responses can be very hard to do. It’s easy to blame others rather than look in the mirror

and think “I am really the one to blame here”, or “why did I allow myself to become helpless when it counted most?”.

The good news is that polo players, like every other human being, are stimulusresponse beings: if you get some pepper up your nose, you sneeze. The pepper is a stimulus, the sneezing is a response over which you have very little conscious control.

However, you can exercise control over most stimuli if you choose to do so. There is a gap between the stimulus (i.e. what happens to you) and how you react to it.

In polo terms, when somebody disses how you are playing, or criticises your team or your horse, you can choose a response that serves you best. You can mind the gap, choose to allow your anger to develop, or choose to exercise patience. In every moment, this choice exists.

You can choose to take a moment to regain your peak state and visualize your shot before taking a penalty for example.

This is because what you focus on, you feel

Taking the criticism personally means you are focusing on what you’re not doing right as opposed to focusing on what you are doing right. And whatever you choose to focus on, negative or positive, it will be validated by a marvellous part of your brain called the Reticular Activating System (aka the RAS).

The RAS starts above your spinal cord, it’s about two inches long, the width of a pencil, and it’s the magical gatekeeper between the subconscious and conscious parts of our brain.

This explains when you are thinking of buying a certain type and colour of car for example, your RAS will go and seek out similar cars and prompt you to keep spotting them in the street or on the road. Likewise, if you focus on how bad your polo form is, your RAS will recollect and remind you of all the bad games you have had.

Using my toolbox of polo coaching tips, I show my players, particularly the senior players, how to take responsibility for their behaviour and their actions. Then I coach

them to pass this principle forward to less experienced players.

The outcome is that they will go into every game believing everything will happen in that game. But they will ride with it and focus on controlling the controllables. If you miss a penalty, it’s just a bad shot out the way. The good shots will come by focusing on your previous good shots – the ones that have been game-winners, the ones that have brought ecstasy and pride to you and your team.

To Play the Game Without Blame

• Understand how much of your power you are giving away and ask yourself what this behaviour is costing you now and will cost you in the future

• Agree to welcome constructive criticism from yourself and others. The best version of your polo self is always under construction

• Blaming your fellow polo players for your problems won’t solve anything. Denying your own shortcomings will deny you the opportunity to realise your polo potential

• When your feelings such as confidence and self-respect are only associated with what others think of you, you’ll never be a truly authentic polo player

• By choosing the right response to serve you in any given situation, nobody can control your focus other than yourself. You will learn to control your life, your destiny and your polo.

For further info contact; Stalkie@rygp.co.uk or call him on +44(0)7771 515885 www.raisepolo.com

Join Stalkie’s Free Webinar: Raising Your Polo Game

Stalkie will be sharing three of the top tips that have supported two of the teams he’s worked with this season, achieve new heights. Register by emailing polotimes@rygp.co.uk with your name, contact phone number and team name.

Celebrating Over 40 Years of HPA Service

The HPA celebrated the retirement of David Woodd and Lucy Lewis at a drinks party at Little Coxwell with HPA Stewards and past and present staff, players, umpires, family and friends.

Both David and Lucy have been at the core of the HPA for well over 20 years, with David at the forefront and Lucy often controlling behind the scenes, the duo were a formidable team and an asset to the sport for such a prolonged period of time.

Nick Wiles, Chairman of HPA, presented both David and Lucy with HPA Life Memberships as well as presenting Stephen Hutchinson with a trophy to mark his tenure as Chairman from 2016 to 2019.

Retirement Celebration; Monday 17 October; Little Coxwell

Photography by Joss Ridley Photography

Andrew Tucker

Richard Britten-Long

Stephen Hutchinson

Lucy Lewis

Caroline Keen

Nick Wiles

Lucinda & Charlie Robinson

Tim Bown, Nick Wiles & Jason Dixon

John Tinsley & David Woodd

Jack & Milly Hodges

The retirement celebrations were blessed with autumnal sunshine

Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers & Plattina Tong

Philanthropy & Polo Art

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

Chester

Carlton

Chester

Cheshire

Chiltern

Cirencester

Cowdray

Leadenham

Moor

Polo and equine photographer Vanessa Taylor took her framed horses to the Portobello Road for a week in October. The exhibition kicked off with a private view for those players who hadn’t flown south for the winter, but still needed their polo fix. A beautiful selection of photographs from the pony lines, individual pony portraits, plus Jineteada’s from Argentina filled the walls. The pictures were produced in an innovative and exciting way using the popular South American tea Yerba Maté in the developing process, giving them a totally original finish. Prospective art buyers spilled out of The Bakery Gallery into the nippy Notting Hill night swapping stories of wins and losses on and off the field. Vanessa raffled one of her prints in support of James’ Place and the kind supporters raised £2,045 which will go towards helping men in suicidal crisis. The prints are still available to view at www.vanessataylorphotography.com with a few still available

Moor

New

Northern

Offchurch

Pangbourne

Vanessa Taylor Exhibition; Tuesday 18 October; The Bakery Gallery

Photography courtesy of Vanessa Taylor

Angus Rowan Hamilton Lulu

Jo & Kim Richardson

Olivia Vidou &

Clare Milford Haven

Nicci Bethell

By

BABY BUCHANAN

ADAPTED POLO AT PALERMO

Another variation of polo has been created – adapted polo! The Roda Polo exhibition took place on the prestigious Palermo Field 1 and demonstrated the abilities of less ablebodied competitors to take part in adapted polo.

600 goals

MINI UDE-MARTINEZ

Congratulations to Kelly and Karl UdeMartinez on the birth of their daughter, Ophelia Elizabeth Rose, born on Thursday 17 November and weighing in at a healthy 8lbs 15oz. According to Karl, “She entered the world in true dramatic style! But both are doing great – very excited! She is a cracker.”

BUMPER YEAR FOR FACUNDO

On Sunday 27 November in Ellerstina’s match against La Dolfina, Facundo Pieres scored his 600th goal in The Argentine Open, with only Adolfo Cambiaso and Ruso Heguy ahead of him –congratulations!

Congratulations to Aurora and Adam Buchanan on the birth of their daughter, Libica!

Guadalupe Aizaga/ Roda Polo

What’s On – Polo Fixtures

Longdole The Jubilee Cup 13/1/2022 23/12/22

Black Bears The Christmas Cup 26/12/2022 01/01/23

Emsworth

WOMEN’S

Lakeside, USA Pacific Coast Circuit Arena Women’s Challenge

8 to 12 02/12/22 03/12/22

Hickstead Ladies’ Tournament 03/12/22 04/12/22

Eldorado, USA Pacific Coast Circuit Women’s Challenge

8 to 12 31/12/22 02/01/23

Eldorado, USA Women’s Pacific Coast Open 14 to 16 31/12/22 02/01/23

RCBPC Ladies Nations 4 to 6 19/01/23 22/01/23

Vallex, Aus Victorian Polo Association Ladies Championships 2023 31/01/23 01/02/23

Youth Polo

Port Hills, NZ Ronald McDonald Charity Polo: SI vs NSW 03/12/22 03/12/22

AAP, Pilar Tres Naciones

18 to 24 06/12/22 10/12/22

Beaufort Pony Club Christmas Arena Tournament Open 11/12/22 11/12/22

Beaufort

Longdole

The Beaufort Polo School Christmas Cup Open 17/12/22 18/12/22

The Longdole Academy Challenge Open 28/01/22 29/01/23

SNOW POLO

Kitzbühel

St.

UK

The below dates have been confirmed by clubs

RCBPC

The Paul Castle Challenge

19/12/22 21/12/22

12/01/23 15/01/23

13 to 15 30/11/22 04/12/22

Beaufort/ Longdole The TREEmendous Cup sponsored by Bluestone 8 to 10 02/12/22 04/12/22

Westcroft Park The Winter Trophy

0 to 6 03/12/22 04/12/22

Silver Leys Nockolds Trophy 03/12/22 04/12/22

Beaufort/ Longdole The Winter Low Goal Challenge 4 to 6 09/12/22 11/12/22

RCBPC The Chairman’s Trophy 4 to 6 10/12/22 11/12/22

Westcroft Park The Cheeseplatter Challenge 8 13/12/22 18/12/22

Hickstead Christmas Tournament 17/12/22 18/12/22

RCBPC Winter Solstice Tournament 2 to 4 17/12/22 18/12/22

Silver Leys Prestige & Village Trophy 17/12/22 18/12/22

RCBPC Challenge Matches Open 22/12/22 03/01/23

Beaufort/ Longdole New Years Festive Challenge 4 to 6 30/12/22 08/01/23

Druids Lodge El Rosario Trophy & Fireside Polo Evening 8 06/12/22 10/12/22

Druids Lodge The Christmas Trophy 24/12/22 24/12/22

Druids Lodge Autumn League Finals (Pig Trophy Weekend) 07/01/23 08/01/23

Hickstead The Inspired Arena Polo Masters 07/01/23 08/01/23

Westcroft Park The New Year Trophy 10 07/01/23 08/01/23

Druids Lodge Watersfield Trophy & Fireside Polo Evening 8 10/01/23 14/01/23

Beaufort/ Longdole RJ Polo Challenge

8 to 10 13/01/23 15/01/23

Silver Leys Autumn League Finals 14/01/23 15/01/23

Westcroft Park The Wine & Whiskey Weekend 8 14/01/23 15/01/23

Druids Lodge Druids Winter League (Chatanooga Salver)

15/01/23 12/03/23

RCBPC The FCT Trophy 10 to 12 17/01/23 22/01/23

Beaufort/ Longdole The January Low Goal Cup 4 to 6 20/01/23 22/01/23 Hickstead Inspired Arena Polo Test Match for the Bryan Morrison Trophy 21/01/23 21/01/23

Westcroft Park The January Bowl 10 21/01/23 22/01/23

RCBPC The Jim McEnteggart Trophy 4 to 8 24/01/23 29/01/23

Beaufort/ Longdole The January 10 Goal 8 to 10 27/01/23 29/01/23

Silver Leys I Fancy That Trophy 28/01/23 29/01/23 Druids Lodge Data-IS Lismore Trophy 29/01/23 29/01/23

RCBPC The Olin Trophy 7 to 10 31/01/23 05/02/23

AUSTRALIA

Gundalong Gundalong Challenge

Yaloak Yaloak Tournament

21/12/22 31/12/22

0, 4 to 6 & 8 to 10 03/12/22 04/12/22

Mingela Mingela Polo Cup 0, 4 to 6 & 8 to 10 07/12/22 07/12/22

Melbourne City Melbourne City Polo Christmas Polo 0, 4 & 8 to 10 15/12/22 16/12/22

Melbourne City Melbourne City Polo Club Cup 0, 4 & 8 to 10 17/12/22 18/12/22

Mingela Mingela New Year Polo

Eynesbury Eynesbury Tournament

0, 4 to 6 & 8 to 10 07/01/23 08/01/23

0, 4 to 6 & 8 to 10 14/01/23 15/01/23

Melbourne City Melbourne City Polo Club Cup 0, 4 & 8 to 10 21/01/23 22/01/23

Vallex Vallex Cup 28/01/23 29/01/23

Victrix Ludorum

Aspen St. Regis World Snow Polo Championship

20th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel

CLUB

NEW ZEALAND

Hawkes Bay Wine Country Cup

02/12/22 04/12/22

Rangitikei West Coast Cup 10/12/22 11/12/22

South Canterbury Picnic at Polo 0 & 8 10/12/22 11/12/22

Hololio Guy Kirkpatrick Memorial 10/12/22 11/12/22

Kihikihi Dozen Cup 10/12/22 11/12/22

Amuri Amuri Tourmanet: SW Broom 0, 2 & 8 14/01/23 15/01/23

Wigram Christchurch Tournament: Bevis Turner 0, 2 & 8 17/12/22 18/12/22

Cambridge Hannon Trophy 17/12/22 18/12/22

Hololio Hololio Tournament 29/12/22 30/12/22

Auckland Ardmore Tournament 07/01/23 08/01/23

Kihikihi Waikato Tournament 07/01/23 08/01/23

Wigram Christchurch Tournament 0, 2 & 8 07/01/23 08/01/23

Queenstown Queenstown Invitational 07/01/23 08/01/23

Waimai Waimai Tournament 14/01/23 15/01/23

Mystery Creek Mystery Creek Open 21/01/23 22/01/23

Port Hills Port Hills 0, 2 & 8 21/01/23 22/01/23

Hawkes Bay Savile Cup 24/01/23 29/01/23

Blenheim Blenheim Tournament 0, 2 & 8 28/01/23 29/01/23

USA

Dallas Southwestern Circuit Arena Masters Cup 0 to 6 03/12/22 03/12/22

Hawaii Hawaiian Islands Players Cup 0 to 4 04/12/22 04/12/22

Rancho Naranjo Southwestern Circuit Arena Challenge Cup –2 to 8 11/12/22 12/12/22

Hawaii Hawaiian Islands Circuit Sportmanship Cup 0 to 4 12/12/22 15/12/22

Patagones NPC Inaugural Cup 12 to 16 17/12/22 01/01/23

Palm City Florida Circuit Sportmanship Cup 4 to 8 21/12/22 24/12/22

Costa Careyes Southwestern Circuit Congressional Cup 5 29/12/22 04/01/23

Palm City Florida Circuit Congressional Cup 4 to 8 28/12/22 03/01/23

NPC Joe Barry Memorial 12 to 16 02/01/23 22/01/23

Sarasota National Outdoor CommanderIn-Chief Cup 10 to 14 15/01/23 19/02/23

NPC Ylvisaker Cup 12 to 16 20/01/23 12/02/23

Patagones Outback Invitational 12 to 16 20/01/23 11/02/23

Hobe Sound Florida Circuit General George S. Patton Jr 4 to 5 04/01/23 16/01/23

Eldorado Pacific Coast Circuit Masters Cup 0 to 4, 6 to 8 & 10 to 12

06/01/23 29/01/23

Eldorado Mack and Madelyn Jason Memorial 6 to 8 & 9 to 12 06/01/23 29/01/23

Hobe Sound Florida Circuit Constitution Cup 4 to 6 18/01/23 29/01/23

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 01823 480460 nhs.wheelers@gmail.com

Tidworth Polo Club* 01980 846705 info@tidworthpolo.com

Toulston Polo Club 07776 234638 info@toulstonpoloclub.com

Triskelion Polo Club* 07624 272547 polo@triskelionpolo.club

Vale of York Polo Club* 07788 426968 info@valeofyorkpoloclub.co.uk

Vaux Park Park Polo Club* 07703 524613 vppc@btconnect.com

West Wycombe Park Polo Club* 07787 560729 secretary@westwycombepolo.co.uk

Westcroft Park Polo Club* 01276 858545 info@westcroftparkpolo.co.uk

White Rose Polo Club* 01430 875767 info@whiterosepolo.co.uk

White Waltham Polo Club 07748 670587 kim@playpolo.co.uk

from

62,900

Full service history. Very high specification including full body Dakar styling (colour coded wheel arches, special side door trim, front fog and spot light kit, soft front impact bar, stainless tube side steps, front and rear stone guards, mud flaps, dark rear glass, heated seats, two tone leather seats, air conditioning). Condition reflective of age and low mileage. V5, service books, spare key, locking wheelnut. Recent MoT with no advisories. £3,995. Cheltenham. Tel: 07792 422209

the tractor itself is solid. £3,950. Tel: 077104 83225

Breastplate

2020 Peugeot Boxer Peugeot boxer 3.5 tonne. 36,000 miles on a 2020 reg chassis.Only used twice since built. Horse area spec as follows: aluminium bulk head, aluminium floor, one piece rubber floor, storage in luton, camera in horse area. Day living spec includes: sink, leisure battery, seats, USB charging sockets. Also has an external horse wash. New MOT. Based in Oxford. £36,000. Tel: 07748117535

Brand new Havanna brown elasticated breastplate with side buckles to adjust. Never used. Size ‘standard’ too big for 14’3 mare purchased for. Would fit 15’1 or 16’2 depending in how you adjusted side buckles/neck strap. Could be used for polo or hunting. £15. Tel: 07377 903706

Twisted Twine Headcollars from Argentina Polo headcollars. Twisted twine. From Argentina. £25. Tel: 07438 661935

1985 Ford 4610 Great tractor with power steering - runs and drives very well. Has had some recent work but cab a little rusty however

Clara Cassino has become a regular face on the women’s polo circuit, competing in and winning some of the most prestigious titles in the world including The Women’s Argentine Open in 2019 and 2020 as well as The Deauville Ladies Cup. We caught up with Clara while she was based in Argentina playing for El Overo Z7 UE in the VI Women’s Argentine Open

What is your biggest passion and why? My biggest passion is horses and polo.

What is your all-time best polo memory? Winning my first Women’s Argentine Open in 2019 with El Overo Z7 UAE (myself, Milly Hine, Hazel Jackson & Lia Salvo), we beat La Dolfina Brave 10-5 in the Final.

Who were/are your favourite teammates? Lia Salvo, Hazel Jackson and Milly Hine. Hardest opponent? I am my own toughest opponent.

Which sports do you like outside of polo? I like and follow many sports, but polo is my main passion.

Favourite film? Wonder Woman.

Favourite song/ album? I Wanna Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston.

Most prized possession? My horses. Favourite celebrity and why? Leo Messi because of his sportsmanship and values and he is so humble.

Best holiday destination & activity? My family farm in Vedia Buenos Aires and spending time with my family.

Best pony and why? Gitana, because she has accompanied me in my career from when I was 10-years-old until I won my first Open in 2019.

Are you passionately superstitious? No, I’m not superstitious at all.

Favourite food/dish? Asado.

Favourite hobby outside of polo? I don’t have any hobbies outside of polo!

Describe yourself in three words? Passionate, shy, responsible.

One thing which would surprise us about you? Haha I’m good at cooking an Asado!

Photograph by Kathrin Gralla/www.derrotedrache.com