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THe British Polo Day Charity Cup presented by
for the benefit of
Smita Rao, The Face of British Polo Day India 2011
Welcome to The British Polo Day Charity Cup, presented by Land Rover. Our first thank you must go to the Schwarzenbach family who are our generous hosts here at the Black Bears’ River Ground and we could not ask for more glorious surroundings. This event is the home leg of the global series The British Polo Day and the return fixture for British Polo Day India, held in Jodhpur every December. We are honoured to be joined today by His Highness Gaj Singh II of Marwar-Jodhpur and The Jodhpur Polo Team, as well as a host of eminent Indian attendees and our friends from British Polo Days all around the world. Today is a celebration of the best of British and what better way to start than a lunch authored by the legendary British chef Theo Randall accompanied with wines provided by Justerini & Brooks. You will then be treated to The British Polo Day Charity Cup, a high-goal encounter between The Hackett British Exiles team and The InterContinental Park Lane Commonwealth. The competitive nature of this fixture will be heightened by the two team captains Aron Harilela and Max Gottschalk, good friends from Hong Kong, flying in especially to play. This match will be followed by the Hackett Trophy, which will see GAM Eton against Land Rover Jodhpur. One of the main objectives of the day is of course to raise as much as possible in aid of four chosen charities: Head Injury Through Sports, The Indian Head Injury Foundation, The James Wentworth-Stanley Memorial Fund and WheelPower. The auction has been generously supported with donations from the renowned equine sculptors Nic Fiddian-Green and George Bingham, the artists Jeremy Houghton and Kaye Parmenter, and equine photographer Astrid Harrison. Other star lots include a donation from 3rd Home and Abercrombie & Kent. We ask you to please give generously and to look at the official Auction Lot Catalogue for more details. The British Polo Day Charity Cup committee is indebted to over 30 Great British Brands and companies that have come together to support the event and we thank them all for their vision. The British Polo Day Commitee
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Although the ancient sport of polo began in Persia and China many centuries ago, the British reinvented the modern game in the Nineteenth Cventury. Sir Winston Churchill, one of the greatest proponents of the game, once famously said “a polo handicap is a passport to the world� and polo is still thriving everywhere it is played, from Argentina to New Zealand. British Polo Day carries on the tradition of the British playing polo against friends in a host of different countries around the world.
www.britishpoloday.com
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Timetable 12:00 – Taittinger Champagne Reception 13:00 – Theo Randall Authored Lunch 15:00 – British Exiles vs. The Commonwealth 16:15 – Eton vs. Jodhpur Afternoon Tea 18:00 – Prizegiving 19:00 – Gin & Jazz
20:00 – Asado & Afterparty Carriages at Midnight
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“There are no rules at the restaurant and we strive to be very versatile. Join us for a cocktail and antipasti, stay on at the bar for an artisan beer and bowl of pasta, or enjoy a full dinner�. Theo Randall
THEO RANDALL AT THE INTERCONTINENTAL London’s Best Italian Restaurant
London’s diverse and evolving restaurant scene presents some of the finest dining anywhere in the world and InterContinental London Park Lane is proud to house the capital’s best Italian restaurant; Theo Randall at the InterContinental. Celebrated Chef Theo Randall carefully blends the best local ingredients with handpicked Italian imports to create rustic fare that continues to attract rave reviews. Theo’s passion for simple Italian fare took him from Chez Panisse in California to Head Chef and Partner at The River Café. In 2006, Theo brought this experience to the prestigious address of No. 1 Park Lane when he opened Theo Randall at the InterContinental. Since its launch, the restaurant has won numerous awards including best Italian/ Mediterranean over £50 in Harden’s 2013, and the highest ranked Italian on the Sunday Times Food List 2013. The restaurant was a key contributing factor behind the accolade of Best Hotel in the UK for Food from Condé Nast Traveller and one of the Best Hotel’s for Foodies in the world by Travel Weekly. The daily-changing menu is inspired by his regular trips to Italy and dictated by the best seasonal ingredients available from the market every day. Theo has personally overseen the extensive wine list that features 90% Italian varietals, as well as a new aperitivi and antipasti menu. Theo Randall at the InterContinental London Park Lane One Hamilton Place, Park Lane, London, W1J 7QY | 020 7318 8747 www.theorandall.com
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British Polo Day Fashion India 2012
B
ritish Polo Day India 2012 saw the best of British fashion designers come together in two spectacular fashion shows. The British Polo Day team hosted Philip Treacy, the world’s leading milliner, in his first ever visit to India, a country resplendent with hats. The event launched in Mumbai at the Royal Polo Gala at the Seaside Lawns, Taj Lands End, where the who’s who of Mumbai society saw Philip Treacy, Beulah London, favored label of the Duchess of Cambridge, and Hackett showcase their new spring/summer 2013 collection. Guests marveled at the exquisite designs as the host for the evening, Indian fashion model Archana Vijaya, talked them through the magnificent artistry on display.
(Left) Jo Renwick in the courtyard of the Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
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The collaboration of such strong designers reflects perfectly British Polo Day’s ethos of how culture can be bridged through the international language of sport and fashion. As a close friend of British Polo Day, Philip Treacy flew in an eclectic mix of hats from different collections including pieces recently created in dedication to Michael Jackson and headlined by Lady Gaga. These designs were modeled by elegant Indian models, and British beauty Jo Renwick. Combined with the Majestic dresses from Beulah London, the second fashion show took place with the breathtaking backdrop of the Umaid Bhawan Palace, home to His Highness The Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Marwar-Jodhpur. “We are delighted to be part of British Polo Day to showcase our spring/ summer 2013 designs. It is a brilliant platform from which to launch our brand, and to celebrate the best parts of Britain in such a special part of the world” Lady Natasha Rufus Isaacs.
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Philip Treacy, favorite amongst royals and celebrities alike commenting on British polo day India - “ This is possibly the least corporate event I have been to. It took me a while to work out what British Polo Day was all about, but then I got it – it’s not just a jolly with some sport thrown in, it is something that has a great purpose while taking you to the places you have never dreamed of.” The last time he was so impressed by an occasion, was at Valentino’s star-studded 50th anniversary. The photographers found no shortage of beautiful locations to shoot. “India is without question the most photographic country I’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing through the lens. Aside from the chaos of the sacred cows straying into traffic, and colors the likes of which one can’t imagine after stepping off a plane from grey London,
it’s the Indian people themselves which make this place a joy. They are an incredibly open nation, staring into the camera with a gaze of welcome and wonderment, and with just a smile transforming every photo into a National Geographic cover.” – British Polo Day Photographer Sam Churchill The event concluded with a crescendo of fireworks, with models, designers, players and VIPs celebrating the close of yet another successful British Polo Day. Men’s fashion was picked up in the press as well. When quizzed on his colorful trousers, Lord Vestey said: “They are very fashionable in England during the summer, but since we don’t have summer seasons, we wear such colors to feel warm, don’t these look great.”
(Left) Jo Renwick modeling Philip Treacy and Beulah London against the magnificent backdrop of the Umaid Bhawan Palace. (Above from Left to Right) Lavinia Brennen, Philip Treacy and Lady Natasha Rufus Isaacs
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BLACK BEARS POLO TEAM The British Polo Day Charity Cup 2013 is being played at the home of the Black Bears. Two generations have spanned four decades at the peak of the high-goal landscape in Britain, amongst the most successful haul of trophies from any team to have played in this country. A hiatus from the top level after the 2007 season resulted in a dominant spell in the 15-goal and 18-goal. 2013 marks the return of the Black Bears to high-goal and the two 8-goalers JohnPaul Clarkin and Ignatius (Nachi) du Plessis, both previous winners of The Gold Cup, form the central partnership to this new side. JP and Nachi are the highest rated polo players outside of The Americas. The British Open Gold Cup at Cowdray Park Polo Club: 1992, 2002 & 2006 The Queen’s Cup at Guards Polo Club: 1993 & 1994 The Warwickshire Cup at Cirencester Park Polo Club: 1988, 1991, 1994, 1997, 2004 & 2005
Visit www.charbonnel.co.uk & enter ‘BPD’ upon checkout to receive an exclusive 20% discount Valid until 31st August 2013 One, The Royal Arcade, 28 Old Bond Street, London W1S 4BT
In association with British Polo Day.
Walpole is the not-for-profit making organisation that furthers the interests of the British Luxury Industry by harnessing and sharing the collective knowledge, experience and resources of the membership. In partnership with over 170 of the most exemplary British luxury brands including Backes and Strauss, Church’s, Gleneagles, Guards Polo Club, Hackett London, Johnstons of Elgin, Quintessentially and Smythson and cultural bodies such as the V&A, Hurlingham Polo Association and the Royal Opera House. Our remit covers a range of activities including cross-industry networking, business development, Government lobbying and thought-leadership. Walpole continues to foster entrepreneurs and emerging talent with our Brands of Tomorrow and Crafted Mentorship programmes. For more information, please go to www.thewalpole.co.uk or call +44 207 873 3790
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An architectural gem in the heart of Leicestershire, Belvoir Castle is one of the country’s most atmospheric buildings, making it the ideal location for a broad range of events and activities. Belvoir Castle offers guests a prestigious location for a wide array of celebrations, especially private parties. Gothic architecture and regency features frame the Castle’s expansive entertaining spaces and large parties are offered the grandeur of the State Dining Room with its open fires and ornate dÊcor. Smaller parties can choose the more intimate Shoot Room which has the benefit of an adjoining sitting room for guests to retire to and enjoy their own private drinks cabinet. At Belvoir Castle, everything is bespoke and tailored to the needs of their client, ensuring a successful event. The dedication of the team and the sheer unrivalled beauty of the castle and grounds make it one of the most iconic destinations in the country. For more information about creating a special occasion please contact Helen Himmons Tel: 01476 871031 hhimmons@belvoircastle.com
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Rules of Polo 1
The light green player has the line, and at fair speed the white player would be crossing the line without sufficient safety margin, resulting in a penalty against white.
3
When travelling in the same direction the dark green player may draw level with green and then force him across the line and take possession of the ball without committing a dangerous foul.
5
Two players riding for a ball from opposite directions in the open must both give way to the left and take the ball on their right or offside.
2
Even at a far lesser angle the dark green player would still be crossing the line if he continues in that direction, and committing a dangerous foul.
4
The dark green player may move in parallel with the line and play a shot providing he can do so without interfering with the green’s mount or causing him to check back. If white would cross the line to the dotted position it would be a foul.
6
When two players are approaching a ball in the open from different directions, the player (dark green), with the line of the ball on his offside, right hand side, has right of way.
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The British Polo Day Charity Cup Presented By Land Rover The British Exiles vs. The Commonwealth
The Hackett Cronan Trophy Eton vs. Jodhpur Polo
Most Valuable Player Sponsored By 100 Years & Selected By John Paul Clarkin Best Playing Pony Sponsored By Harry’s Of London & Selected By Nina Clarkin
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Presented By HH The Maharaja Gaj Singh II Of Marwar-Jodhpur
Presented By Urs Schwarzenbach Presented By Virgil Bretz Presented By Kevin Martel
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Teams and Players The British Exiles
The Commonwealth
Hackett London
InterContinental London Park Lane
1. Mr. Max Gottschalk
(1)
1. Mr. Aron Harilela
(1)
2. Mr. George Meyrick
(5)
2. Mr. Tom Hunt
(5)
3. Mr. Max Charlton
(6)
3. Mr. Rob Archibald
(6)
4. Mr. James Harper
(6)
4. Mr. Simon Keyte / Mr. Jean du Plessis
(6)
TOTAL 18
TOTAL 18
ETON
Jodhpur Polo
GAM
Land Rover
1. The Hon Tristan Phillimore
(1)
1. Kr. Vishwaraj Singh Bhati
(0)
2. Mr. Guy Schwarzenbach
(2)
2. Kr. Dhananjay Singh Rathore
(1)
3. Mr. Ben Vestey
(3)
3. Kr. Bhawani Singh Kalvi
(3)
4. Lord Wrottesley
(0)
4. Maharaj Raghav Raj Singh
(2)
TOTAL 6
TOTAL 6
Fortnum & Mason • Big Ben • Afternoon Tea • Changing the Guard • Bond Street The Grand National • Stonehenge • The Royal Family • • Wimbledon • The Tower of London • Harrods •
Polo
The Ritz
Buckingham Palace • Strawberries & Cream • Saville Row • Rain • The Houses of Parliament • Smoked Salmon • Tweeds * Roxtons Field Sports • Stately Homes
*Another Great British Institution
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H A C K E T T. C O M
E S S E N T I A L LY B R I T I S H
Sponsor of British Polo Day
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Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister for International Trade and His Highness Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan with The British Exiles at British Polo Day Abu Dhabi
Geroge Meyrick playing for The British Exiles at British Polo Day China 2012
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BRITISH
The British Exiles EXILES
The British Exiles Team is comprised of some of Britain’s top young players and a wide range of other polo enthusiasts, who play predominantly outside Britain at British Polo Days around the world – hence the “Exiles”. Max Gottschalk leads out the British Exiles team for The British Polo Day Charity Cup. He and his father have been a constant of British high-goal polo for well over a decade, with their team Les Lions. As 6-goalers, Max Charlton and James Harper are two of the nation’s top polo players and 5-goaler George Meyrick, who Captained the side at both BPD China and BPD Abu Dhabi, rounds off the home side.
1. Mr. Max Gottschalk
(1)
2. Mr. George Meyrick
(5)
3. Mr. Max Charlton
(6)
4. Mr. James Harper
(6)
TOTAL
18
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The Commonwealth
A historic gathering marked the conclusion last year of four days of public celebration for The Diamond Jubilee. The Queen hosted a lunch at Marlborough House on Pall Mall with representatives from each of the 54 Commonwealth countries. Outside of The Americas, the finest players in the world are predominantly represented by three Commonwealth countries – Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Many of these polo professionals choose to base themselves in England over the summer and a number of the top English players settle for the winter in one of these polo hubs. Aron Harilela has flown over from Hong Kong to represent India and The Commonwealth as the Captain of the visiting team. Black Bears stalwart 6-goaler Simon Keyte will be joined by his cousin the up-and-coming 5-goaler Tom Hunt and Australia’s top talent 6-goaler Robbie Archibald to make up the core of The Commonwealth team.
1. Mr. Aron Harilela
(1)
2. Mr. Tom Hunt
(5)
3. Mr. Rob Archibald
(6)
4. Mr. Simon Keyte/ Mr. Jean du Plessis
(6)
TOTAL
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Join the british polo day around the world As British Cavalry Officers travelled the four corners of the earth, they learnt to play and love polo, spreading the game from Argentina to Australia. Polo is thriving everywhere it is played. British Polo Day celebrates the heritage of the game in each country, reviving some of the old rivalries whilst bridging cultures in a quintessentially British Day. www.britishpoloday.com British Polo Day Germany, 6th July 2013 British Polo Day Russia, 7th September 2013 British Polo Day China, 21nd September 2013 TBC British Polo Day Singapore, 28th September 2013 British Polo Day Mexico, 23rd November 2013 British Polo Day India, 14th December 2013 British Polo Day Brazil, February 2014 British Polo Day Australia, March 2014 British Polo Day Abu Dhabi, March 2014 British Polo Day Dubai, March 2014 British Polo Day United Kingdom, June 2014 The US and South Korea to be added in 2014 If you would like to attend a British Polo Day, please email: britishpoloday@abercrombiekent.co.uk
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INDIA DECEMBER 2013 The British Polo Day India, is a three day celebration of British Luxury Heritage in some of the most enchanting locations India has to offer. British Polo Day India, held at The Maharaja of Marwar-Jodhpur’s Private Polo Club, will see exciting matches between The British Army, Eton, The President’s Bodyguards, Mayo College, and Cavalry & Guards Elephant Polo. British Polo Day India captures the romance of this extraordinary country, and the event draws to a close with a magnificent fashion show at the Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Friday 13th December Cocktail Reception Sunset Terrace of the Umaid Bhawan Palace Saturday 14th December The Jodhpur Polo and Equestrian Institute, The Maharaja of Marwar-Jodphur’s Private Polo Club 12pm onwards: Cavalry vs. Guards Elephant Polo High tea Eton College vs. Mayo College Jindal Polo vs. Oxford Prize giving Cocktail reception and Dinner at Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur followed by dancing Overnight at the The Umaid Bhawan Palace in a Deluxe room Sunday 15th December The Jodhpur Polo and Equestrian Institute, The Maharaja of Marwar-Jodhpur’s Private Polo Club 12pm onwards: British Army v The President’s Bodyguard High Tea Final of the Umaid Bhawan Palace Trophy Prizegiving Champagne Reception & Fashion Show at The Umaid Bhawan Palace For more information contact britishpoloday@abercrombiekent.com
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e to n i a
n
po
l
o
d
n
po
o
l
ociety lo s
Eton players have played in Dubai, Singapore, Mexico and France as well as in India. They continue a fine tradition that has carried on for more than 100 years with an early OE team famously playing in the USA in 1911, when the New York Times declared that the visit gave “great satisfaction” to the American people! As of course did one recent OE polo playing visit, and the British Polo Day team is proud to continue the tradition.
1. The Hon Tristan Phillimore
(1)
2. Mr. Guy Schwarzenbach
(2)
3. Mr. Ben Vestey
(3)
4. Lord Wrottesley
(0)
TOTAL
6
ia
Tristan Phillimore, Secretary of the Old Etonian Polo Society leads out the Eton team this year, joined by our host Guy Schwarzenbach and his brother in law, Clifton Wrottesley, with the final place in this close team being Clifton’s cousin Ben Vestey. Eton have twice played in Jodhpur, Honours currently even, with Rick Paton-Philip scoring the winner in the dying seconds in 2012. This encounter looks to be equally as thrilling.
on
et
et
on
old
eton
ety
i a n p o lo s o
ci
ci
so
et
old y
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Jodhpur polo
In 1889, Sir Pratap Singh, younger brother of the then Maharaja and Prime Minister of Jodhpur State, invited Col. Stuart Beatson of the Bengal Lancers to help him raise the Jodhpur Lancers. It was with the Englishman that polo came to Jodhpur in its modern form. Only four years later, the Jodhpur Team brought home its first trophy, The Rajputana Challenge Cup of 1893. In 1897, when Sir Pratap traveled to London for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, he took his polo team along, the finest Indian team during those years. The Jodhpur team went from success to success and in February 1922, Jodhpur beat Patiala in Delhi to become champions of all India. It was a match often described as the finest ever. A crowd of over a hundred and fifty thousand people, which included the future KingEmperor, the Viceroy, Sir Pratap himself, and fifty Maharajas watched spellbound. Crushed by defeat, the magnificent Bhupinder Singh, Maharaja of Patiala, let his horses loose in the crowded by-lanes of the capital and ordered his team to burn their sticks. They never entered the field again… The winning streak continued and in 1925, there was another Jodhpur team tour to Great Britain where the team was described by Tatler as “Hot as Mustard”, beating every team there was to beat, including the U.S.Army; and winning the Hurlingham Champion Polo Cup and the Roehampton Open Polo Cup. 1. Kr. Vishwaraj Singh Bhati
(0)
2. Kr. Dhananjay Singh Rathore
(1)
3. Kr. Bhawani Singh Kalvi
(3)
4. Maharaj Raghav Raj Singh
(2)
TOTAL
6
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Jodhpur Polo
M
iniature paintings in the Mehrangarh Museum reveal that the Rathores first played polo with the Mughals, but it did not become a passion until much later in the Nineteenth Century. It was in 1889, to be precise, that Sir Pratap, younger brother of the Maharaja and Prime Minister of Jodhpur State, invited Col. Stuart Beatson of the Bengal Lancers to help him raise the Jodhpur Lancers. And it was with the Englishman that polo came to Jodhpur in its modern form. The Rathores took to it like fish to water, here was a splendid substitute for war. The blood-rushing charges, the allor-nothing riding-off, the frantic change of horses - it was all there. Only four years later, the Jodhpur Team brought home its first trophy, The Rajputana Challenge Cup of 1893. That team, captained naturally by Sir Pratap himself, included Beatson, Harji (Thakur Hari Singh, The Great Horseman), and Thakur Dhonkal Singh, the latter rated by many as one of the finest exponents of the sport ever. In 1897, when Sir Pratap travelled to London for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, he brought his polo team along, who were
amongst the very first Indian teams to travel abroad, and for that matter, the very first foreign teams to invade England. They won many matches at Hurlingham and Ranelagh, returning with their reputation enhanced as the finest Indian team during those years. His Highness The Maharaja Gaj Singh II has always taken a keen interest in equestrian sports and nurtured an ambition to reestablish Jodhpur as a premier center of equitation and polo. In pursuit of this goal in 1993 he re-launched the Jodhpur team, which has since made its mark on the Indian polo scene. Excerpts from ‘The House of Marwar’ by Kanwar Dhananajaya Singh. Roli Books, 1994.
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Red & Green Collar Umpires
Tony Keyte
Greg Keyte
Prior to the mid nineties players umpired matched at all levels which was accepted as part of the game. However at the higher levels as more money was poured into polo, and the top professionals became disenchanted with the idea of umpiring, a small group of professional umpires were selected by the then Chief Umpire, Martin Trotter, to run matches. At the same time a professional umpire from the Argentine was employed by the HPA to give further weight to the programme at the high goal level only. In general this was successfully aided by the employment of an umpire/assessor from the United States. As time passed our homegrown umpires became more experienced and for the most part concentrated on umpiring at the expense of their playing career. The scheme was expanded to pick up all the Victor Ludorum matches at 15 goal and above and the semi finals and finals at he lower levels. Management of the PP Group, now 8 strong, remains with the Chief Umpire, Robert Graham, who allocates umpires to matches as required independent of the club running the tournament.They are entitled to wear a red collar on their umpire shirt and they are expected to achieve a high standard of fairness, control and discipline. They are paid a proper wage on a per game basis for which the teams are charged by the HPA. The success of the scheme may be measured by the fact that our top professional umpires are invited to stand in tournaments around the world though as not yet in the USA or Argentina.
Brigadier Arthur Douglas-Nugent, Deputy Chief Umpire, Hurlingham Polo Association
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Nic Fiddian-Green Nic Fiddian-Green was born in Hampshire in 1963. He graduated from Wimbledon School of Art, London with a BA in Sculpture, and went on to attain his MA at St. Martin’s School of Art, where he also took a Diploma in Advanced Lost Wax Casting. He is best known as an equestrian sculptor, working primarily in bronze and in beaten lead. He held his first exhibition in 1986, and has since been in demand by galleries and collectors alike: his work is now shown regularly in London, New York and Australia. Like many who have spent a life with horses and know them intimately, Fiddian Green took them for granted during his early life: they were simply there. However, his view was changed in 1983 when he first saw the Elgin marbles at the British Museum. He began to see the horse as a spiritual entity, not just a living thing with a beauty and energy particular to itself but a universal vessel for a whole breadth of emotions. A Fiddian Green horse is not an animal sculpture in any traditional sense. It goes beyond the portrait to become a study in energy and quietude, exuberance or wistfulness. For Fiddian Green, a sculpture is not deemed finished when the clay model is sent off to a foundry to be reproduced as an edition of bronzes as if in a factory. For him, each piece in an edition is a new enterprise, which he casts from molten metal or moulds from sheets of weathered lead. He then modifies, refines and patinates, worrying at it until a unique work of art emerges. Fiddian Green does not make multiples. Each piece is a distinct work, whole unto itself and conceived to convey its own message and mood. There is something old-fashioned about him: crouching over his work and lit by the glow of the forge, he is like a leatheraproned artist-factor from an 18th-century painting by Wright of Derby. You feel that he could as easily put his hand to making a wagon-wheel or a bronze axe-head. Fiddian Green’s sculptures too have something of robust antiquity about them. Many critics have pointed out a classical quality in his work, but it is the classicism of the primitive Greeks who hewed Doric columns from stripped tree-trunks and hung the walls of the Parthenon with the shields of their vanquished enemies. These works have no frivolity. To use the equestrian phrase they are not ‘well turned-out’: they are like pieces of the earth’s crust exhumed and shaped by perseverance and design. Even though he works direct from live subjects, Fiddian Green’s horses have a shared elemental identity, a kinship with each other, with all living things and with the mineraline earth from which they are fashioned. www.nicfiddiangreen.com
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The Thesiger Trophy, the trophy played for between Habtoor and The Britsh Army at British Polo Day Dubai sculpted by George Bingham
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George bingham
I am principally a sculptor of horses and British wildlife, though supporters of British Polo Day in Dubai will know that I occasionally sculpt camels as well! Working in either wax or clay, which is then cast in bronze, most of my pieces are in the traditional style of the animalier. Having been involved with horses all my life imagery of the horse tends to predominate my work, though recent exhibitions have included birds of prey, cattle, dogs, geese and many other assorted creatures. I work both in the field and in my studio in Dorset, surrounded by our own horses and dogs who all make willing models. Over the last three years I have had one man shows in London and Switzerland, and recent commissions have included a life size Cresta Rider for public display in St Moritz, a trophy for Krug Champagne and a much loved retired eventer.
(Below) “Pony Lines” Ed 5/9; Cast in Bronze Featured in today’s auction
www.georgebingham.com
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Astrid harrisson
Well known for her striking photographic portrayals of horses and the cultures in which they subsist, Astrid Harrisson presents a set of commanding images from her ‘Black’ collection alongside vivid illustrations of horse power in her ‘Blue’ pieces on metal. The powerful rhythm of these works mimic Astrid’s understanding for her equine subjects. Devoted to a career in close proximity to the horse, Astrid is as much at home on a ranch in Argentina as she is cruising coastlines of Northern Iceland or celebrating a feisty fiesta in rural Spain. From the foothills of the Andes to the plains of America’s Wild West and the remotest mountains of Mongolia, Astrid traverses the globe in a bid to understand more about horses and their magnificent native territories. Astrid shares her discoveries through her sensitive documentations, some of which can be found in her recent book ‘The Majesty of the Horse’, a collaboration with renowned British author Tamsin Pickeral, published in the UK by Harper Collins. Graduating in 2002, Astrid’s career pathway ultimately returned her focus to the horse -a life-long passion consequentially finding expression through her work; within the vast boundaries of this niche, Astrid is building a solid International reputation for her talents behind the lens and for her empathy with her subjects. Every new commission sees Astrid achieve something new, something a little different. Through both digital photography and graphic illustration techniques employed, her resulting works are, more often than not, stylized, contemporary pieces of art.
(left) “Statue” Lusitano Stallion “Rustico” Photographed in Holland, 2010 for the cover of The Majesty of the Horse (UK Edition) Ed 2/10; 16.5 x 23.4in; C-Type print Featured in today’s auction
www.astridharrisson.com
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Abercrombie & Kent is delighted to be the official travel partner for British Polo Day.
Having been at the forefront of travel for over 50 years, our mission remains unchanged. Seamless service, safety and security are a given. Anticipation, individual attention to detail and the ultimate combination of comfort, insight and wonder are the key to ensuring every journey with A&K is a true luxury experience. Our network of over 50 offices around the world means we are in a unique position; not only to bring you to each British Polo Day event in style, but to ensure you get under the skin of each destination, should you choose to extend your stay.
0845 485 1208 www.abercrombiekent.co.uk/britishpoloday
Abercrombie & Kent Ambrose Street Cheltenham
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“I am a sensitive and creative person. My artistic senses will always be enriched by the most beautiful, striking or moving sights around us and I will continually strive for perfection in my work.� www.kayeparmenter.co.uk
Kaye Parmenter
Kaye Parmenter, an artist recently introduced to British Polo Day, specialises mainly in the mediums of watercolour and acrylic with a spontaneous and versatile approach to painting. When the first couple of paintings were shown to British Polo Day, we were intrigued by her choice of composition and interpretation of tbe subject matter. In turn, Kaye has been inspired by the whole ethos of British Polo Day, the amazing photographs, destinations and fabulous sporting images. Kaye is looking forward to exhibiting with three other artists at the British Polo Day Charity cup in Henley. The exhibition will include a selection of “Polo” watercolour and acrylic paintings, illustrating Kaye’s style which seizes the moment and captures the essence of a subject in a loose and spontaneous way. Kaye works on the edge of control of the medium where she feels she can explore the full potential and produce work in the hope of eliciting emotion from the viewer. All things British continue to provide inspiration for Kaye’s work. She has painted a range of subjects from military scenes and sporting subjects to the very best of our British landscape, favourite animals and flowers. Working from her studio in Somerset, she strives to find exciting and unusual angles to create striking compositions. Engaging with a subject is paramount to Kaye and her camera is always with her. Students on Kaye’s art courses will often hear her say, “to paint loosely, you have to understand the detail.” She works extensively on light and tone in her work. Many people stand captivated watching her demonstrate a technique that looks so easy, yet is so hard to emulate. It is a desire of so many people to loosen-up with their artwork, however Kaye believes that you really have to understand watercolour and a relationship will form over time! www.kayeparmenter.co.uk
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Jeremy Houghton
Akin to a number of interesting artists Jeremy Houghton also studied law prior to embarking on an art career. He joined the art world initially as Head Of Art at the International School of Cape Town, and then on returning to his Cotswold studio, as one of his generation’s most prolific and collectable artists. Since 2005, when his fulltime painting career began, he has achieved some notable achievements and commissions. He was the official artist for London Fashion Week in 2007, officially painted HM the Queen in 2009, and has had solo exhibitions at some of the world’s premier galleries: The Saatchi Gallery (London), The Everard Read Gallery (Johannesburg) and The Visual Arts Gallery (Delhi) amongst others. He was one of the official artists for the London 2012 Olympic Games and is currently a resident artist at Highgrove Estate. Through diverse portfolios, Houghton’s work is an aesthetical study of relationships, creating works which embrace the pleasure of seeing. The conservation of balanced connections between man and nature is the inspiration behind his work, and how they can be portrayed from different visual, social and environmental angles. Old photographic negatives provide the starting point for each piece of work. Tone and form are then used to portray movement and space, purposefully distanced from time. (Below) “Polo Match” Original Watercolour Featured in today’s auction
www.jeremyhoughton.co.uk
PROUD TO BE PART OF IT – THE OLYMPIC PARK, LONDON 2012 – It took two years in the creation (and significantly longer in the planning), the landscape construction period included two drought afflicted summers and correspondingly freezing winters– yet few would dispute the Olympic Park offered a display of natural beauty which captivated the world, with sustainability as the key theme, and transformed a derelict space in the heart of our capital city. - THE LEGACY The Queen Elizabeth Park was never about just looking good for the Olympic Games – London 2012. Described as “unique” in terms of the design and commitment to sustainability/ biodiversity in an urbanised setting, this is by far the biggest parkland area to be created in the UK during the last century. However, the story doesn’t end here – the site, post-games, is currently being redeveloped to provide a 100-hectare parkland combined with housing and leisure facilities as a lasting legacy of London 2012; as such, we are now involved in the retro-fit to the Athletes Village, part of the overall transformation of the Stratford area into a new self-contained development - East Village; this will include new homes, shops, cafes & a school and is a springboard for further re-development of the whole area around the Park & Stratford. The celebrated Queen Elizabeth Park will undoubtedly provide a magnificent environment for future generations to live and enjoy. For More Information visit : www.gavinjones.co.uk
Velodrome : Situated adjacent to the North Park East, this eye catching building had a very simple but effective soft landscape scheme. Slightly elevated above the ground, the building is ringed by steep earth banks planted with mono-culture Hedera hibernica – over 10,000 of them!
COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY, VISUALLY, POWERFULLY We work with you to help you clearly define your needs and goals. Through this collaborative approach, we will create film and digital content that captures the essence of your company. Utilising the power of the Internet and its multiple distribution platforms, Pendragon provides you with a tailor-made end to end solution that will build a community based around content we develop. Founded in 2000, Pendragon Productions deliver exceptional production values and services to its clients who value their communication output and recognise that digital media is at the core of today’s marketing channels. We are delighted to be chosen as the digital and social media partner of The British Polo Day. www.pendragonproductions.com
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History of the Game Polo is perhaps the oldest game in the world – having been played over 2500 years ago - and is truly international. The name polo is said to have been derived from the Tibetan word “pulu”, meaning ball.
Ancient Polo
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n 600 BC the first recorded game of polo took place between the Turkomans and Persians. The Turkomans won. Polo began as a training game for cavalry units, usually the king’s guard or other elite troops. To the warlike tribesmen, who played it with as many as 100 to a side, it was a miniature battle. Persian literature and art give us the richest accounts of polo in antiquity. Ferdowsi, the famed poet-historian, gives a number of accounts of royal polo tournaments in his 9th century epic, Shahnameh (the Epic of Kings). In the earliest account, Ferdowsi romanticizes an international match between Turanian force and the followers of Siyâvash, a legendary prince from the earliest centuries of the Empire. The game spread into North India. In fact Sultan Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim Emperor of North India, actually died accidentally in 1210 playing polo. From Persia, in medieval times polo spread to the Byzantines (who called it tzykanion), and
after the Muslim conquests to the Ayyubid and Mameluke dynasties of Egypt and the Levant, whose elites favored it above all other sports. Notable sultans such as Saladin and Baybars were known to play it and encourage it in their court. Polo sticks were features on the Mameluke precursor to modern day playing cards. Polo was passed from Persia to other parts of Asia including the Indian subcontinent and China, where it was very popular during the Tang Dynasty and frequently depicted in paintings and statues. The Moguls were largely responsible for taking the game from Persia to the east and by the 16th century the Emperor Babur had established it in India. Polo was revived in Japan by the 8th Shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune (1684-1751) and was played until early 20th century. It was the favourite sport of the last Shogun who surrendered power to the Emperor in 1868.
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Sir Winston Churchill Old Harrovian
The Prince of Wales in Jodhpur 1922
Modern Polo
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he modern game of polo, though formalized and popularized by the British, is derived from Manipur (now a state in India) when British tea planters discovered the game in Manipur (Munipoor) on the Burmese border with India and eåstablished the first polo club in the world at Silchar, west of Manipur in 1862. In 1869, Edward “Chicken” Hartopp, 10th Hussars, read an account of the game in The Field, while stationed at Aldershot, and, with brother officers, organised the first game known then as “hockey on horseback”- on a hastily-rolled Hounslow Heath against The 9th Lancers. The 1st Life Guards and the Royal Horse Guards were quick to follow suit on grounds at Hounslow and in Richmond Park; and then on a small ground near Earl’s Court known as Lillie Bridge. The first polo club in England was Monmouthshire, founded by Capt. Francis “Tip” Herbert, 7th Lancers, at his brother’s seat, Clytha Park, near Abergavenny in 1872.
In 1875, the first official match in Argentina took place on 3rd September, where the game had been taken by English and Irish engineers and ranchers.
Prince Philip playing polo
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{ here you realize } Why didn’t we do this sooner?
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Our marquees are of the highest quality and we pride ourselves on our attention to detail to ensure that each marquee is finished to perfection. Our aim is to always deliver beyond expectations and accept nothing less. Our event management and design team is bursting with ideas to make your event as unique as you. Formal or informal, and everything in between, we are here to help you realise your vision.
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BRITISH POLO DAY PERSONALITIES George Meyrick Player The British Exiles George has played regularly in Argentina and since 2006 has had his own string of horses and a small breeding programme there. Elsewhere, he has played in South Africa, China, Sotogrande, St. Tropez, Chile, Amsterdam, Dubai, Florida and India, as well as Sierra Nevada for snow polo. George has represented England in two World Cup Tournaments, both times winning the European Championship. This year he has played in two England test matches and captained Young England on two occasions, including on International Day.
Dr. Col. Umaid Singh Rathore BVSC & AH, MVSC, NDEHMS Manager of Jodhpur Polo Team Colonel Umaid was commissioned in Remount and Veterinary Corps of Indian Army in 1962. He held an intense relationship with Army Horses, playing polo for RVC and the Indian Army Polo team from 1964 to 1984. He also participated and won show jumping, three day event and dressage at national level. Chef d’ Equipe Indian Show Jumping Team 1993, Colonel Umaid was also the Equitation Instructor in Army Equitation College Meerut between 1969 and 1972. Colonel Umaid is a life member of the Equestrian Federation of India Retired as Colonel from Army Services in 1992, Colonel Umaid became the Secretary of Jodhpur Polo and Equestrian Institute from 1997 to date, coaching and managing the Jodhpur Polo team ever since.
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Theo Randall Head Chef British Polo Day Charity Cup Theo first learned about the effort required and the rewards enjoyed by a true food lover as a child. Unlike his peers who happily spent their holidays buried in sand on the beach or leaping in and out of rock pools, Theo’s parents’ idea of a good family holiday was to drive through rural Italy and see how much food and wine they could squeeze into the boot. His parents’ enthusiasm for good food and wine rather stuck with him. In November 2006, Theo opened his first restaurant, Theo Randall at the InterContinental and since then the restaurant has won numerous awards.
Lt. Colonel Simon Ledger The Voice of British Polo Day Simon Ledger is a retired Lt. Col. in The British Cavalry Regiment, The Light Dragoons. He joined the Army in 1975 and has served all over the world including Northern Ireland, UK, Germany, Norway, Cyprus, the Middle East and Kosovo. His last appointment was the Deputy Garrison Commander at Tidworth. Playing polo since 1976, he has run the Tidworth Polo Club as well as the Cyprus Polo Association and the Combined Services Polo Association. He began commentating in 1987 at polo matches, eventing and races. Since 1994, he has commentated for all the major polo tours at Tidworth PC, Guards PC, Sandhurst and British Polo Days worldwide. As Chairman of the Army Polo Association since 2003, he organises all Army Polo activity.
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