Claire Brougham

Ladies 6 goaler Claire Brougham talks England selection, Ladies polo and her introduction to the game

1) Congratulations on your recent selection to play for England. How do you feel it went?

CB: The tournament was great, very well organised, and thrilled to have won it. I hadn’t played arena since 2013 so I was very surprised to have been selected.

We had a great team! Lucy Taylor and Saskia Meadows were dream team mates. It was one of my favourite teams I have ever played with. Everyone worked so hard, played their positions and we all had the same ultimate goal of winning, doing whatever it took to do so! The communication in the team was so positive and we all worked really well together.

2) Can you tell us a bit more about yourself. How and when did you first get involved in polo?

CB: I am 33, 6 goals ladies - 1 goal mixed and 2 goals arena ,based out of my family farm in Guildford. I started playing polo in pony club for Chiddingfold Farmers at the age of 15. I have ridden all my life and used to event but had had a few nasty falls, and was ready to give up. My parents encouraged me to try polo, I loved it after one lesson, and I have never looked back!

3) Who has been you favourite coach or role model?

CB: Sunny Hale, was the pioneer of Ladies polo, her passion and commitment to growing women’s polo as a sport has given me so many opportunities to play abroad. Sunny helped create women’s handicaps, women’s polo tours, and she also gave the best advice! I owe a lot to Sunny!

I owe a lot to Ross Ainsely, at 19 I went to New Zealand. I was 0 goals, but had only ever played on made polo ponies. It was a massive shock the system trying to play 0 goals on young horses. Riding young horses taught me how to play any horse, and become a more effective rider. This has made it so much easier to travel as I am less phased by the horses. I would highly recommend any player wanting to improve to go do a season in New Zealand!

John Horsewell is an incredible coach, he has an eye for detail and has massively helped improve my technique and skills.

Players Nina Clarkin, is a great player and captain. She has the most amazing ability to make everyone in her team play a goal better. Always positive and you go away feeling you have learnt something playing with or against her. Sarah Wiseman my favourite team mate - we have traveled the world together playing women’s polo, USA open, Malaysia, Singapore, Argentina and of course at home in England. She is a great player and even better friend. 4) What has been the best piece of polo related advice anyone has ever given you? CB: Ride as many different polo ponies as you can, it will make travelling to play a lot easier and enjoyable! Keep your goggles/glasses on whatever the weather. CB: I would have to say Ladies grass polo as it has enabled me to travel all over the world including, Thailand, China, Barbados USA, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand and Argentina. I have met so many amazing people, and had so many great experiences. representing my country will always be my greatest achievement “

5) Which has been your favourite horse over the years and why?

CB: Pip, now 22 he was my first polo pony and I still play him today! I played him in my first ever England game when I was 18 against Canada, and played him at the Berkshire in the arena! He is a machine!

6) What would you rank as your greatest achievement in polo so far?

CB: Representing my Country will always be my greatest achievement. I have been fortunate to represent England, against Canada and in the European 8 goal Championships in mixed teams. As well as against South Africa, Argentina and USA in Womens teams. Recently playing in the arena for England meant a lot as it was the first time I have represented England since having my son and major hip surgery.

7) Do you prefer playing mixed or ladies polo? Grass or Arena? Why?

CB: I would have to say Ladies grass polo as it has enabled me to travel all over the world including, Thailand, China, Barbados USA, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand and Argentina. I have met so many amazing people, and had so many great experiences.

8) What are your opinions on the recent growth in the women’s game?

CB: The growth in women’s polo is amazing as a Lady player we have so many opportunities to play. The creation of our own circuit means we can play women’s polo most weekends of the English season, then travel the world playing in the off season. It has allowed ladies to become professional players and make a living from playing polo.

There is also more support for women players with the creation of the Ladies polo Foundation.

10) What advice would you give to other women looking to get involved in polo?

CB: Start with an accredited coach, invest in your horse power, and play in good teams. Always keep learning and be open to advice.

11) What are our aspirations for the rest of the arena season and beyond?

CB: I am looking forward to playing in the women’s VL series. Travelling to the USA to play in the New Year.

If you could have anything in the world this Christmas, what would it be?

CB: If I could have anything in the world for Christmas, it would be to have a cloned Strings of Pips!