ENTERTAINMENT
Polo by the Sea Polo by the Sea returns to the Gold Coast for another social and sporting spectacular. WORDS LEANNE ST GEORGE
THE GRASSY EXPANSE of Doug Jennings Park at Main Beach will soon reverberate with the clatter of hooves and throb of sticks as the 2018 edition of ‘Polo by the Sea’ captivates with its coterie of colourful characters and competitive spirit. Gold Coast Polo by the Sea is part of the Urban Polo circuit, now comprising 10 events nationally: the Land Rover Polo in the City event held in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide. Polo by the Sea – Gold Coast and Palm Beach, Polo on the Beach in Adelaide and, new in 2018, Polo in the Vines in the beautiful Hunter Valley and a Polo Up Event in Rockhampton. Janek Gazecki is the originator of Urban Polo Events, inspired by the rising popularity of the sport worldwide and a need to make polo more accessible to city dwellers. In 2005, he devised a reduced field format, introduced new rules, a larger ball and thus, the most exciting and successful pro events were created. Spectators are close enough to the action to appreciate the tactics and skills of the athletes Apart from the obvious appeal of uniting a ferociously fought sport with 2,500 years of heritage, with fashion and finery, socialising, delectable cuisine and French champagne, Urban Polo provides a unique networking opportunity. “Events create a perfect opportunity to mingle with like-minded business people and entrepreneurs, whilst at the same time providing a private marquee space for your clients where you can ‘own the space’ from a branding and creative standpoint,” explains Janek. “The spectacle of the polo itself is something corporate guests will not forget,” he continues, his passion for the sport palpable. “It is the world’s fastest, full contact, ball game with adrenaline levels at fever pitch. Your brand is inextricably linked with the fun, premium hospitality and the high calibre of the networking experience. “Urban Polo events are the only Australian polo series specifically designed for corporate entertainment, and one of the few in the world to have taken that approach. “Unlike the races, at Urban Polo you can literally touch the horses and mingle with the players. You are a vital part of the game and can enjoy the thrill of its highs and lows.” >> Model wears Hugo Boss Pacific Fair, Helen Kaminski hat. Beau Skerrett from Hazelwood Stables riding Brian the pony.
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