La Low Goal
October Issue
And here we are again. At the end of another polo season, awaiting the bitter onset of winter. The fields are chewing up, most people have already turned their ponies away and polo has all but ceased to exist across the country. But not for long. Soon, the hardier of you will be back for another bite at the cherry. Those of you brave (or perhaps stupid) enough will soon be back in the saddle, ready to take on the arena polo season. Now you may think these people are mad, battling the elements, through icy cold, endless rain and knee deep mud simply to play a knock off version of the game against a small number of similarly minded players. But really, the merits of arena polo go far further than simply keeping your eye in. Not only can it iron out flaws in your technique, but the quicker, more intense style of play can really get your blood pumping and the adrenaline flowing. To read more about arena polo, make sure to visit our ‘Complete guide to Arena Polo’ on page 41
Enjoy the issue
Connor Kay
(editor) 1
by low goal for low goal
Contents Page 5
Ignacio Fernandez Llorente - Polo and self esteem
Page 6
Opinion - HPA’s Vision For Polo - Revised
Page 11
Alicia Woods -On her introduction to polo and the La Ruleta team
Page 16
Xtreme Polo League - Judgement on the new league
Page 21
The Basics - Jason Warren looks the full swing
Page 27
Jeniffer Little - Feeding considerations for the out season
Page 32
Chukka Wellness - Preparing for ride offs
Page 35
Spur ban -The reasoning and verdict
Page 41
Arena Polo -Your complete guide to arena polo
Page 45
Play For A Cure -Details from both the charity tournaments
Page 55
Club News - Match reports from all over the UK
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Ignacio Fernandez Llorente Polo Egos: Commander’s Wife Syndrome There is something that is quite common in people who play polo. It is self-esteem and huge. It is curious what gives polo players this great selfesteem, whatever their level. Is it because the player is on top of a horse and has others below? Is it be because being on a horse unconsciously means having power? Is it be because it is something so different and exclusive that it makes them feel special? Is it because being a Polo player is a very prestigious title? Is it because it is something so rare that it attracts the attention and interest of others? Is it because being a player is a way of life, and that it takes up so much of your life? Is it because they have a lot of money? Is it because some prince or king practices it? Everyone will have their theory ... In my case after playing polo, I feel better physically and mentally, and I can't explain why this happens. I have seen many cases of people who had a profession, and practiced polo but when they referred to them they were Polistas (polo players). The title of polista is more important than other titles. The polo forces the Polista to give a lot of dedication, to train physically, the horses, the grooms, the organisation, the tournaments, etc. It takes up all the time that a person has or is not available to them. Having interests or motivations in life is excellent and polo can help you and take up all your time. Having self-esteem is a very good thing, and it solves the problem of depression and going to the Psychologist.
But polo culture means that the Polista is not interested in improving his technique, taking a class only for a person outside this polo world. There are many polistas who are not interested in learning anything, they think they already know everything. I commonly see very old Polistas, and they play every possible tournament, making beginner mistakes repeatedly. And I think they don't know, but when I hear them I think: “they think they know everything!” But there are cases that the player's ego attracts attention for being out of place: For example the commander of an airplane is the one who drives an airplane and the entire crew on board follows his instructions. Say it turns out, on a certain trip the Captain’s wife accompanies her husband on that flight sitting with the rest of the passengers. Then this woman who is not the commander acts as captain giving instructions to the crew. This is the syndrome of the commander's wife. The wife is believed to be the commander. In polo it happens that a player was one day in a certain important club, surrounded by excellent players, then from there when he returns to his club, because he is believed to be an excellent player he becomes a superior being. Also when a Patron hires a high handicap professional, from there, the other people are inferior beings, and this Patron miraculously becomes an excellent player. It also happens when a Professional denigrates, mistreats another player for the sake of playing better than him. It also happens when a player tells a professional referee how he has to do his job. You have to know how to place yourself in life, have humility and respect for others.
Vision for polo 5 year plan
REVISED
4
Vision for Polo
I know what you’re thinking Didn’t they run this last month? And it is true, we did. But this is a juicy topic, which keeps on giving with each new HPA announcement, and there have been numerous, and in places, fairly drastic changes.
So here we go, round 2 As expected, the area which received the most criticism from the original document was that regarding handicapping. It was obvious that there would be a serious backlash, from both patrons and pros, about the furthering of handicapping restrictions at each level. This would leave lower and lower goal pros unable to play in low goal polo, forcing them out into the medium goal, a decision, which undoubtably would have been unpopular with many of them, especially when it drastically reduces the number of patrons and therefore amount they can earn. It is also useful to bear in mind, that many players may simply outgrow the potential of their horses, their financial situation or their team. These new rules would have forced these players into higher and higher goal games when they perhaps cant, or don’t want to.
On the flip side however, you can just as easily see the HPA’s motivations for doing such a thing. They want to open up the sport to more people, encouraging amateurs and new beginners to take part. Creating teams with fewer pros and a more equal spread of ability usually stimulates faster and more open polo, which is
attractive to both players and spectators alike. Furthermore, this would likely see a movement away from the Patron-Pro model in the low goal, making it more affordable for patrons as they won’t have too pay as much in pro fees and will likely be able to spread the entry fee between the other players. This makes the game more affordable and accessible to newcomers.
However, after this latest round of criticism the HPA has announced a revised plan which aims to slightly relax the proposed handicap limits, while also offering a more natural limit. In this new model, minus goal players would effectively play of 0 (except their team would retain their handicap head start) meaning that teams cannot use -1s and -2s to balance out the handicap of a higher goal pro. On the whole not much has changed in regard to how high a pro you can have on the team at each level of polo, but on average it seems each handicap level (2,3,4 goal etc) can now play 2 goals lower polo than was originally planned in the first draft of the document. This is of course a small win for the established pros and patrons, however I can’t help but feel the HPA might be
7 5
Vision for Polo
heading for a compromise which annoys everyone.
Originally this document had been massively favouring the amateurs in the game. The minus goal players, alongside the 0 and 1 goal players seemed set for a big boost in demand as the handicapping rules now helped them out drastically, alongside the notion that every team would have to include an English amateur besides the patron in any game up to 8 goal. However, after the handicapping rules have been relaxed and amateur requirement dropped it seems that the HPA’s plan to support beginners is falling through. After all, they were aiming to ‘grow the game’, partly through providing more opportunities for beginners.
However, the obvious counter argument to this is that beginners SHOULDN'T BE IN 8 GOAL. And… I guess they’ve got a point. With this new model which seems set to be brought in, reducing the number of pros and patrons in the low goal, players should move up the level of game as they themselves improve, instead of immediately jumping into the 8 goal as soon as they have learnt to canter. There is no doubt that this is a more healthy and consistent approach with other sports, but this same effect could have been created with the original proposed handicapping regulations.
68
Finally, some people like to claim that the new proposal is more intuitive and easier for people to understand. It is a more natural barrier, as people can simply not exceed the total handicap limit of the tournament, rather than being bridled with different restrictions on combined handicaps of the top two players, maximum handicap and minimum handicap. However, after trying to explain the concept to my non-polo family, I can confirm the new concept is utterly bemusing to them. People cannot wrap their heads around what is and isn’t allowed, and how players can be counted off handicaps that are higher than the ones they possess. Then you tell them that all minus players are worth zero, which they finally accept, only to later contradict yourself by saying that you still play off handicaps, giving the team with minus goal players a small starting advantage. This is not intuitive or easy to understand and spectators and potential players are
not going to understand, and as a result may switch off and lose interest. If you’re going to relax the rules, relax the rules, but do it in a way that is understandable for everyone. If we have quantitive regulations people can see these and fully interpret these, rather than the proposed regulations which rewrite their own rules.
Overall, I can see why the HPA are keen to ensure their existing members are content, as no matter how appealing you make the sport to newcomers you cannot guarantee they will take the bait. However it does seem a shame to see the HPA’s already compromising on some of the bolder aspects of its vision , which I fear could annoy existing patrons and pros by changing the regulations enough to split them up, while still not opening the game up to newcomers. Only time will tell I guess. Let’s hope I am wrong.
…to the umpire @cliffordofarrell “I didn’t say chotto, I asked if that was chukka?”
@hanwoodward “Thank you sir for the excellent calls and superb use of the whistle at appropriate moments”
Congratulations,
you will receive an Equestribar as this months prize.
Next Month: What not to say… to the groom Submit your suggestions via social media to be in with a chance to win.
9 9
Winter is Coming
12 12
Alicia Woods After a dominant season leading the La Ruleta Ladies team to wins in 6 out of the 7 tournaments they entered, including against mixed teams, we catch up with Alicia Woods to look back on the season.
How did you first get into polo? I moved to Dubai 3 years ago and on the plane I read an article from Steve Thomson's book "how to look cool playing polo". Whilst waiting at the luggage carousel I decided to give it a try, in hope of making expat friends. I rang the oďŹƒce and they said they did their intro to polo lessons every Saturday at 4pm, so she booked me in for the following week. As I got into the taxi I realised it was 2pm so I asked the taxi to turn around and get me to the polo club instead. So there I turned up, a week early, with my suitcases. I hid them in a bush whilst I negotiated my way into this week's, already full, group lesson. From that moment on; I was addicted to this sport.
What would you describe as your greatest polo achievement to date? This is my first proper season; it was the first time I had a team of my own, played ladies polo, had my own horses, played in England and won. In fact we won 6 out of the 7 tournaments we entered. This includes putting my ladies team into the mixed 4 goal, where we beat 10 other teams to win the final 10-4. That was pretty cool to know we had the best team, not only just on the women's circuit, but massively better than the men's teams of equal handicap.
15
What were the biggest challenges you have faced in polo this far?
This year has been more than challenging. My mother died suddenly in an accident on Christmas Eve so I had to move back to UK to sort out the estate. With no other family and no friends or my home, I knew polo would be the thing that gave me courage and keep me going.
With no horses or contacts or knowledge of British Polo, my ambitious dream was born. I did everything in the wrong order I I bought tack for horses i didn’t have, bought horses without having stables,
flew them to England without having grooms and designed team shirts for a team of no players. The more I did the more I realised this wasn't a hobby, this was a lifestyle.
Overall, do you prefer playing mixed or women’s polo? Why? Women’s polo is very different. I decided to give it a go in hope of creating not only a winning team, but also in hope of a semi support system in my new life direction. I succeed at both. Women's polo is much more tactical and skilful but I like to run fast so it was an experiment at first. I think I'm very lucky in my team. Nina and Lucy play mixed polo too and the way in which we play our game is open and fast, which helped my transition. Being able to play mixed polo with an all girls team is one step better!
How has this season gone for you? Expensive! I originally thought I could play ladies polo on 3 or 4 ponies that lived out and have a part time groom and do a couple of tournaments, maybe even get a job alongside.
However hobby went into full time patrons's career and everything else quirky got sidelined. Going from holding Hazel's spare pony last year in the ladies guards final, to winning it with my own team; well that's every girl's dream!
What would you attribute the success of your La Ruleta team to? 100% the team. I think we were the right balance of personalities and handicaps but all with a common drive for success. The ponies were also a huge part of it too. We knew some of the big teams would out number us on horses so we brought out our best and they contributed massively to our success. Another huge part was our extended team, supporting us on the ground. Families, grooms, vets, lorry drivers, umpires, photographers all stood by us and believe in us as a team. That matters a lot too. To have the man power to run like clockwork, but nice to be able to give them something back by winning.
that “ From moment on; I
was addicted to this sport
“
What are your plans for this winter and beyond? Winter plans are still in progress. I would have liked to have continued playing abroad with the team but with varying global commitments, it's impossible for this year.
I myself, will go to Argentina to play the ladies in Hana Grill's team, "Why Not?" Hazel, Hana, Nelly and I were the winning team at the AAP in April, so we are back to defend our title!
“ so we are back to defend our title!
“
X
treme Polo League
The Xtreme polo League lives! As of the time of writing, two matches have being playing in the innorguaral XPL tournament, with Las Mojitas and La Aguanda emerging the victors. With big plans for the future, including expanding with the same teams to multiple international locations such as America, England and beyond, we thought we should take a look at the new league now it has finally found its way into the limelight.
As promised, the league has set about increasing polo awareness by making it more spectator friendly. They’ve got big screens, animations and most importantly an exclusive TV licence from WarnerMedia to broadcast to the whole of South America. This is one of the big hurdles a new sports league like this has to overcome. This is applicable in all sports, but especially in a lesser known and followed one such as our own. This kind of thing could have been a real
challenge which could have set the leagues development back several years. Hopefully now it will be able to find traction and grow a following in this South American region before expanding into the rest of the world.
Further more, they still seem set on utilising a system which will see the same teams compete in all of these new locations, to be added in the coming years. If you haven’t already read our take on this you can here (https:// issuu.com/la_low_goal/docs/ la_low_goal_-_issue_9_-_may) but the long and short of it was, we think it’s a good idea. It will help the sport and league grow as people can follow a particular team throughout an entire season, or perhaps even longer. This allows people to actually invest themselves in the sport, rather than just being passive, slightly uninterested spectators.
“So yes, I think the XPL has potential”
What people may begin to get touchy on however, is the leagues introduction of new rules. It is an easy trap for all new start ups to fall into, as although many would argue some rules need redefining for the sport to really take off, a half hearted approach can leave the leagues feeling isolated as something not quite representing polo, but with the same stigma. People will have to learn new rules, which can be a big drawback for established polo supporters, as they like to know what’s going on. Thankfully, the XPL seems to have taken a conservative approach with their changes. For example they have opted to change the size of the field to a 300 by 150m pitch. This is however, just a very small departure from the standard fields, meaning it has little to no impact on the game for the spectators and players, but allows the game to be
explained more easily through simple whole numbers.
Another area of the game which has been simplified is the constant end changing. Much like other polo concepts, All Pro Polo, World Polo League and Arena Polo the XPL has opted to only change ends after each chukka. This again will likely offer barely any advantage over the entire game but makes the game easier to follow for the casual fan.
Once again like Arena Polo, the XPL has also introduced a 80yard line, which all goals scored from beyond are worth 2 points. This is very similar to the 25 yard scoring rule in Arena polo and has been created for a similar reason. Both forms of the game wanted to speed up the action and stop plays breaking down, in the XPLs case through negative play
and tapping around the goal, and in the Arena, by dribbling along the back wall. This 2 points initiative is another variable which can help persuade players to hit at goal from distance, opening the play up and potentially opening the door for some fantastic goals. Let’s face it, who doesn’t love seeing a high goaler hammer a goal from nearly the half way line? No. Nobody. More of that then please. Furthermore, these 2 point goals can help games stay exciting, even when the goal differences begin to open up, as they often do during the 8 Chukka high goal games. Teams may only need “2, 2 pointers” rather than 4 goals, which definitely sounds more achievable. This could help spectators stay interested to the bitter end, rather then a game running to an obvious conclusion after the firs half.
So yes, I think the XPL has potential. The rule changes all seem sensible and well considered, and have remained within the realms of what people would traditionally understand as polo. Yes, it’s still early days, and yes there are many challenges ahead, but if the XPL maintains its current values, and honours what it claims to be aiming for, the future seems bright.
la_low_goal
*season: ends* Polo players who can’t afford to go abroad:
7
The
Basics By Jason Warren
The Full Swing Jason Warren is a 3 goal pro and the Head Coach at Ham polo club based in Richmond, Surrey. Jason spends time at the club bringing people into the sport and coaching them up to tournament standard. Through social media, Jason provides coaching tutorials polo and fitness related. Find him on Instagram at the handle: @jason_tola_warren
5 Stages of the full swing
Step 1 - Grip Without the correct grip it’s nearly impossible to hit the ball correctly. For the mallet to strike the ball correctly and the stick head to come flush with the grass its vital that we have the grip right. The finger must be triggered, thumb wrapped around the handle and the flat side of the grip running through your palm
Common Mistakes:
• Thumb comes up along the grip • •
rather than around the grip
Finger not triggered (index finger)
Gripping too tightly
21
Step 2 - Right foot Shift your weight into the right foot to create a stable base for the shot. The inside of your left thigh will be tight to the saddle and slightly rotated inward to create the stable base on the saddle
Step 3 - Rotate and reach As you approach the ball extend your arm back in synchronisation with rotating your body. The rotation of your body creates the power and allows the pre swing to be in the correct position to travel in the correct swing plane i.e. in a straight line through the ball. A lack of rotation means the mallet comes across the ball and power is limited.
Common Mistakes:
• Not enough rotation of the upper body
• Not lengthening/ extending the arm in the back phase of the swing
Step 4 - Head over the ball As you approach the shot keep your eyes on the ball, as you get to the ball start to put your head directly over the ball and keep it there the whole way through the shot. Only bring your head up after you have hit the ball
Common Mistakes: • Lifting the head before the ball has been hit
Step 5 – Drop arm through the ball As you reach the ball, your arm should drop through the ball keeping a straight arm. It is important that the elbow and wrist remain straight throughout the swing, before, during and after the ball has been hit. Keep the swing fluid and use the weight of the mallet rather than strength.
Common Mistakes:
• Many beginners break at the elbow and wrist just at the point the ball is hit
• Rotating the hand and therefore the mallet
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Define This
boards
(noun)
1. 11 inch high planks, often wooden or plastic, defining the outside edges of a polo field 2. the point at which a polo pony decides he is not a show jumper 3. trip hazard
23
Adver
Feeding and con out of Jennifer Little RNutr MSc Bsc Hons
As the season comes to an end and the nights are drawing in many playing ponies will be starting a phase of rest and recuperation over the upcoming winter. Without the stresses of workload and tournaments this is also a phase of very different nutritional requirements. If truly at rest their nutritional requirements drop significantly in comparison to during the playing season.
So, what does this mean for the feed room and the feeding rations? Simply put, as their requirements drop with workload keeping them on the same performance ration would result in
many nutrients being supplied in excess. Potentially resulting in excessive body weight gain and possible over excitable behaviours which, can increase the risk of injuries. Other nutrients when provided in excess, such as Sodium for example, will simply be excreted by the kidneys and eliminated in the urine. Providing nutrients in excess of the requirements is both unnecessary and often unbeneficial and can prove an overly expensive feeding practice. This may be the reason why it is far more commonplace for playing ponies out of season to be turned away at grass after one season and before the next to recover and rest.
How does Forage measure up for rest and recuperation? Graph 1 illustrates that 24-hour winter grazing with 4kg meadow hay can provide enough energy and protein for a polo pony at rest.
Unfortunately, the red bars show that there are deficiencies in lysine, copper, zinc and iodine with this un-supplemented ration.
rtisement
nsiderations for season
Graph 1: Nutrient Provisions of 24hr Average Winter Grazing + 4kg average hay vs requirements
Lysine is an essential amino acid, a component of protein that the horse is unable to produce through its own metabolic processes. As such its requirements must be met through its provisions in the diet. Amino acids are involved in several functions in the body including, structural, enzymes, hormones, the transport of nutrients across membranes as well as the immune system. Signs of essential amino acid deficiencies can present as dullness, reduced appetite, weight loss, poor hoof and hair quality, and can even result in loss of muscle mass.
connective tissues and bone formation. Selenium is an essential component of animal tissue with its greatest concentrations in muscle, bone and skin. It also functions as a powerful antioxidant protecting against oxidant damage in skeletal and cardiac muscle. Finally Iodine is closely linked with the thyroid organ and basal metabolic rate, impacting on growth and tissue repair. These deficiencies may impact on the recuperation and rest process and possibly impede on building back up to full work as the next playing season returns.
Copper is a mineral involved in functions that include cellular within the blood, nerves,
In situations where additional weight gain is not required, there are several possible solutions to correct these imbalances without having to resort to “full feeds�. Balancers are low intake supplements that are designed to provide the nutrients likely to be insufficiently supplied by forage alone. Suregrow stud balancer is one such example, despite being designed for breeding stock, its provision of nutrients and lysine at 19g/kg and with a feeding rate of just 100g/ 100kg body weight ensures a cost-effective method of providing optimal nutrition for rest and recuperation of the athletic horse.
If your management style makes daily bucket feeding of a balancer difficult vitamins and minerals can be provided with a field block in each grazing paddock. Uniblock has been specifically formulated with a broad range of vitamins and minerals for horses.
If weight gain is required to ensure the next season starts on the right footing the grazing and forage will need to be supplemented with a conventional hard feed. This does not need to be at the nutritional specification or cost of a performance feed, but it does need to provide both the vitamins and minerals and a source of non-heating calories. Diets such as Classic Fibre Cubes fed at 400g-1kg/100kg body weight achieve this and in a steady energy release format.
Body condition status, quality of grazing and management constraints will all influence your choice of solution. Ensuring all nutritional requirements are met with suitable forage and additions we can make sure optimal nutritional
provisions are in place to maximise the benefits of the rest phase and that the next season has the makings of success from the start.
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Ride offs are an essential part of defence in polo. It’s a bit like preparing for a rugby tackle except on a horse at top speed! To be an effective defender and ‘ball stealer’, players need to be able to hold and control their bodies in a strong position whilst leaning out of the saddle. Ride offs are high impact collisions so require the joints and muscles to be strong and resistant. It is also essential that the body recovers quickly post games with little or no injuries. This is why having a fit and strong body gives the player the advantage. If they have stronger muscles and well supported joints, they are less likely to injure themselves or lose the ride off.
How to prepare your body for action The main muscle groups used during a ride off are the shoulder, back, core, glutes and legs which together hold the player up out of the saddle in a strong position. We have chosen some polo-specific functional exercises that can be incorporated in to a training programme to target the muscle groups required.
Resistance exercises to help prepare the body for battle:
Side plank – improves core and oblique strength Lie on your side and lift yourself up on to your elbow ensuring it is directly under your shoulder. Lift your hips up off the ground until you feel the muscles on the side of your stomach contract. NB. Come down on to your bottom knee if you find the exercise too hard. Hold for 30 seconds Repeat 4x
Fast feet with high knee at end – improves balance and fitness Start with a high knee action and run sideways quickly between two cones. When you get to the end of the cones finish with one leg up and hold to test your balance. Move between the cones for 45 seconds. Repeat 4x
Horizontal Abduction – strengthens the shoulder muscles Place a resistance band to a stable base just above head height. Start with a slight bend in the knees and engage your core muscles. With a fully extended arm pull the band from above your opposite shoulder down to your side and hold. 45 seconds per arm Repeat 4x
Ski sit – strengthens the lower body muscles Position yourself with your back to a wall and lower your body down until your knees are bent to 90 degrees. Optional: Hold a weight with two fully extended arms at chest height to strengthen the shoulders. Hold this position for 1 minute. Repeat 4x
Single leg work with shoulder press – Improves balance and core control Start standing with a light weight in one hand. Raise one leg up behind you and lower your chest and arms at the same time. Keep a slight bend in the stationary leg and squeeze the glute muscles as you come back up to the standing position bringing the moving leg up into a high knee. As you do so raise the arm holding the weight into a shoulder press and hold for 2 seconds. Continue for 45 seconds on each leg Repeat 3x per leg
Along with these resistance exercises, an effective activity to help prepare the body for high impact collisions is boxing. Not only does boxing strengthen your upper body and core but also improves cardio fitness. If possible, add 20 minutes of boxing into your training sessions. You may also want to add in some active pool time to your training regime which allows the body to recover through low impact movements such as swimming or pool walking/ running. To help prepare your body for the next polo season Chukka Wellness have created a 6 Week Pre - Season Exercise Programme. For more information visit www.chukkawellness.co.uk
Spur Ban?
As of the 1st of November, the HPA will be implementing a spur ban lasting to the 16th December , as a trial run to asses the possible effects of banning spurs in arena polo. This will be in effect for all levels of polo, from chukkas to the high goal. But is this really justified? Are spurs really worth banning?
Firstly it is worth mentioning that the banning of spurs would undoubtedly be a popular move for spectators and the outside world as a whole. Often polo is viewed as cruel on the horses, and whips and spurs, the artificial aids, are certainly a contributing factor to
this view. Wether correct or not, people will be more likely to engage with the game and try it out if they are confident the horses are well looked after. However, this is likely to be a very small to non existent factor as Arena polo is never going to be the greatest draw for spectators and beginners (I don’t know why, maybe it’s something to do with the biting cold and knee deep mud?).
Instead it seems this is a decision taken purely for the welfare of the ponies, which is controversial as spurs are not an aid solely used in Polo. Spurs are used at the top level in almost every equine discipline, including Showjumping, XC and dressage. Yes, there is always debate in each of these about the humane nature of them, but the same is true for any artificial aid, from whips to drop nose bands. Generally they seem to be accepted, especially at the higher levels, where many would regard them as compulsory. This is because they allow the rider to give their aids more clearly, allowing greater control. Surely they would be just as useful, if not more so, in polo?
Although overall regarded as acceptable, spurs have the potential to hurt the horses, especially when used incorrectly. This should go without saying as you are effectively strapping metal pressure points to your heels. The issue however comes when they are used incorrectly, wether meaningfully or not. It is easy to get carried away in a game and this could, and does lead to people forgetting they are wearing spurs and therefore using them too strongly or incorrectly. Wether this is the result of leaning to far, turning to
saddle, kicking too hard, it is still an area that could cause harm to the horse. This misuse of the spurs is almost certainly the driving force behind this trial ban.
Many people will claim that the use of spurs helps with the control of their horses, similarly to the other equine disciplines. However, many more simply ride with spurs because “thats what the pros do” or simply to try and force their pony into running faster. None of these final two points are valid, as good training and a well conditioned and looked after horse should be able to provide you with all the speed and control you would need, especially in the arena. In my opinion, the ban is more useful at detoxing these people who have little to no knowledge of the use of spurs, rather than punishing the seasoned professionals who use them well for their intended purpose, wether that be for training young horses, or just riding one which was become used to riding in spurs. And for those people, this ban will come as a bit of a shame. But a worthwhile shame, as hopefully many people will rediscover riding without spurs and be less inclined to use them again. These are the people who shouldn’t be riding with spurs, and are where the problem needs to be fixed.
So, the verdict then. Personally I do not think that spurs are any more cruel when used correctly than any other riding aid, and therefore there is no need for them to be banned. However, I do feel there is a culture of spur use in polo, when it is not perhaps always needed, and this break may persuade some people who are less adept at using spurs to give them up. I am glad the HPA hasn’t gone all out and banned the use of them completely, and furthermore chosen to implement its trial period during the off season. This gives the trial run a soft landing, reducing the amount of backlash from the players while still giving the HPA a chance to evaluate the use of spurs. Going forward i don’t think we can outright ban spurs as many ponies are already used to using them, and many horse trainers and players use them as a useful training aid. However, I can see the use of the being regulated more closely, in a similar vein to the recent crack down on whipping, introduced for 2019. Perhaps the umpire could keep a closer eye out for ‘incorrect use of the spurs’ or the HPA bring out more descriptive rules regulating the size and shape of the spurs allowed, instead of the currently vague ‘Any spur likely to wound a horse is not allowed; used.
These would be more workable solutions in the long run, as it allows a compromise between the people who require, or at least regularly use, spurs correctly, and the welfare of the horses.
Straight from the horse’s mouth Oliver Hughs Deputy Chief Executive
“
It was agreed by the Arena Rules Committee that spurs used incorrectly represented a potential welfare issue for horses. They consulted all the arena clubs for their views on the use of spurs. It was the view of many that spurs were often worn and used unnecessarily and in the arena the players would kick the horses more often. It was the view of some that spurs used correctly were a definite asset to players. The Committee agreed that it would be very difficult to implement a rule that would allow some players to use spurs but not others and they therefore agreed to a trial ban period for the first half of the arena season and to then assess the effect at the mid-season rules meeting
“
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the time has come once again to wave goodbye to another summer of polo The days begin to shorten, the weather worsen, and the sun prepares take its annual 6 month vacation. Polo grinds to a halt, and everyone with enough money or sense emigrates to warmer climes. Those of us left behind struggle with what can only be described as baltic temperatures, endless hours of mucking out and mud. Lots of mud.
But before you slip into a sea of polo withdrawal fuelled depression, allow me to introduce arena polo. Your light in the dark through these testing months, arena polo allows you to get the polo fix you crave, without breaking the bank (even more) and heading off abroad.
Aside from the obvious chance to keep your eye in, arena polo does offer a number of advantages which can lead to better performances in the grass season, when that eventually rolls back around. Firstly, you are obviously getting a head start on everybody else. Far fewer people take part in arena polo, and therefore if your one of the minority that do you will gain valuable time over other players, allowing you not only to be ready and raring to go when summer is back, but actually a better player too.
Arena polo is also a fantastic teacher, which can help players develop many transferable skills to be taken into their grass game. For instance, turning the ball is far more important in the arena,
and therefore arena players are often better and more comfortable doing this out on grass. Quick games in the arena also have the potential to dramatically reduce your reaction times, as the high intensity of the game, caused by the ball constantly changing direction, bouncing of people, ponies, mallets and the walls, helps shape your reflex times.
Arena polo can also help iron out any bad habits that you may have developed over the summer months. For instance, many beginners are known to drag the ball, or push at it, rather than hitting through the ball. In the arena, the different ball grips to the surface, making it impossible to do this and therefore encouraging good technique.
All these benefits, there must be a drawback? (aside for the countless hours spent freezing knee deep in mud). Amazingly, its not as bad as you would have thought. Your current HPA membership will now cover you all the way through the arena season for no additional cost. All you have to do is let them know you plan to be playing arena and you are free to go and join one of the arena clubs. And even this is a drop in the ocean compared with summer memberships. Most clubs will offer arena membership, usually including chukka, for a fraction of the price of the grass fields, as obviously arenas are nigh on maintenance free, and the demand is far lower.
So take a minute before you turn those ponies away this winter. Imagine the fun you could be missing. Imagine the games you could be playing. Imagine the plays you could be making and the skills you could be acquiring. And try, really try, to avoid imagining the rain. Give arena polo a go.
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differences Although arena polo may be a great way to hone your skills and keep playing during the winter months, it is fundamentally different in a number of ways. For starters, obviously nobody has a full size indoor polo field, meaning we have to play in smaller, mostly sand arenas. These can range in size from barely above your standard 20m menage to Dallas Burston’s Super Arena, a huge purpose built arena designed to be a close to outdoor polo as possible.
due to its stickier outer shell, lead the mallet to simply roll over the top. Instead you must make sure to actually hit the ball with each tap. For this reason, a lot of coaches like to use the arena ball when teaching as it promotes a better swing and technique for both arena and grass polo.
As a result of being played in these arenas, mostly made of sand, the game does have to adapt in other ways, such as the ball used, to avoid the risk of injury to both player and pony, and a whole new set of regulations designed to keep the game moving despite the smaller area and different setting. In addition to this only 3 players make up each team, compared to 4 on grass, and each chukka is only 6 minutes long plus the extra 30 seconds.
The ball also is more likely to bounce, since it is inflatable and is also more susceptible to moving off course due to wind and spin. It is not uncommon to see balls flying out of the arena, even despite the much higher boards/walls than grass polo. This is because it is hard to keep arena balls flying in a straight line, especially when airborne. This is because they are light enough to be affected by the wind, but they also have a tendency to spin in the air, leading them to arc round towards the end of their flight, often quite substantially. This is another reason why many arena players opt for smaller shots when playing.
One of the most prominent of these differences to the player, is getting to grips with the new ball and its distinct set of characteristics. Unlike a grass ball the arena balls are inflatable, and often white or orange in colour to aid visibility. They are also significantly larger than the small plastic outdoor ball, but have wildly different characteristics when played with. Firstly, it has a tendency to dig into the ground and stick when pushed. Often beginners will try and push and drag the ball, however, although his works to an extent outdoors, the arena ball is having none of it, and
Chukkas in arena polo are different too. Slightly shorter at 6 minutes plus the additional 30 seconds. This reflects the high intensity nature of the game, while also allowing players to play with fewer ponies, often only 2 each. This makes the game more accessible for new players and established ones alike, as often many people
the
arena
Backline Players must maintain a canter when carrying the ball along the back line to continue the flow of the game
25 yard line
Penalty line and marker where two points are awarded when scored from beyond
Centre line Ball thrown in here at the beginning of every chukka. Also penalties can be awarded from here.
Goal Points awarded for hitting the denoted board. Unlike grass polo only the area marked is considered the goal (too high and its not a goal)
15 yard line Penalty line and marker that players must be behind on hit ins
the rules: Although arena polo does revolve around many of the same fundamental rules as traditional outdoor polo, there are a number of key differences to bear in mind. These not only affect what gets blown up, but the whole style of play.
Perhaps the most important rule change for arena polo is the omission of the turning rule. Due to the far lower speeds reached in the arena, it is judged safe to turn wherever you like when in possession of the ball. This means that turning the ball is far more common, somewhat replacing the backhand, as due to the close proximity of all the horses these are risky as the ball can easily ricochet off another pony or go out of play. It also means you are far more likely to see people circling around players or using nearside turns to bring themselves closer to ball. All this requires far more emphasis on using the back of the stick than many players who have solely played outdoor polo may be used to.
Next up is the 25 yard rule. In order to combat the tendency for players to simply follow the wall all the way around the arena, shielding the ball from their opponent, a 25 yard rule has been introduced to promote more open play. This means that if a goal is scored from outside the 25 yard line it his worth two points, often singled by the umpire by raising the pick up stick horizontally, forming a ’T’ shape. Although these remain fairly uncommon, they are a key aspect in the game, especially when coming back from a large deficit. Another way two points can be scored is when the umpire gives the attacking player the option of a defended or undefended 25 yard penalty. This is equivalent to a 60 yard penalty,
as it is the furthest out of the penalty lines, however in some circumstances the hitting player can choose wether they would like a member of the opposing team to stand in the goal mouth. If they opt for it and score it they receive two points, but if the chose undefended, only the one.
Another incredibly important thing to remember when playing arena, is that play is continuous. This means that the game is not stopped when a goal is scored, and rather than returning to the centre for a throw in as in grass polo, the previously defending team will take a hit in from wherever the ball bounced back from when it was scored. A soon as the ball, is struck, it is live and the other team can contest it. This significantly speeds the game up, keeping the intensity of the game high, but can catch new players unaware. It also opens a strategic decision when scoring, as if the ball is left touching the goal board, it will be harder and slower for the other team to take the hit in, increasing your chances of stealing the ball before it gets to the other end of the arena. Alternatively, if a player chooses to hit the ball into goal hard, the other team may be left with a half arena head start as the ball bounced so far back.
Finally, this year is seeing the introduction of a new rule by the HPA, temporarily banning the use of spurs at all levels between the 1st November and the 16th December ( read all about it on page 35). Although this is not a major rule change it may have consequences for some players who had not being informed. This is not a arena specific rule, simply a trail run by the HPA over the arena season to assess the possible consequences of banning spurs.
clubs and fixtures With over 30 arena clubs across the county, there is plenty of polo going on even in the quiet ‘off’ season. Ad always, this list is not conclusive, and you can always find more games, wether it be tournaments or chukkas by contacting your local club. This does however give an outline of some of the events you can look forward to over the coming months, ranging from the lowest of the low goal to the international test matches, theres bound to be something for everyone.
nico san roman Don’t just take our word for it. We caught up with Arena 6 goaler, Nico San Roman to ask about the arena Season.
What are your plans for the upcoming winter season? I will be managing Emsworth Polo Grounds winter arena polo, also based there with my horses and patrons.
What is your favourite aspect of Arena Polo? My favourite side of it is that even though that you are playing polo competitively you all have more time to enjoy it as most of all the polo gets played in one place, so you can mix with a lot more people at the same time.
What would be your top tip for somebody just taking up arena polo? My top tip would be the same as on grass, make sure you have the right horses to play. Horses that you enjoy riding and playing, as well as playing with people that you enjoy to have around around you.
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Play for a cure 43
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n March 2018 my mum was diagnosed with 2 forms of breast cancer. I was doing my masters at Bristol uni when I got the call from her. I can’t describe the feeling you get when someone you love is diagnosed with cancer. No one can prepare you for it or the treatment process. What made the diagnosis even harder was that 5 years before, my auntie Swetlana lost her battle with cancer.
Most people reading this will know someone who has been diagnosed with some form of cancer. This event [the charity polo tournament at Druids Lodge] was created to not only raise money for CRUK, but also bring these people together!
I have a very close relationship with the team at Druids Lodge- pitched them the idea and they were all on board. This was the start of the Play For A Cure charity polo day in aid of Cancer Research UK.
I can’t describe the feeling you get when someone you love is diagnosed with cancer
The first event took place on the 2nd September 2018. We had a number of trade stands attend and some very generous raffle
prizes from companies including, Le Chameau, Rae Feather and Jessamy Elmhirst.
I had so much support from all the sponsors, including Druids Lodge, Hook Polo and WIP.
We had 3 matches on the day -
Forest Edge Bowl- 0 goal
Vera Cup (named after my mum) 16 goal women’s
Mothers Heart (8 goal)
We raised just over £3,100 on the day and due to the popularity of the event, decided to run the event again.
The day followed the same structure- but we had more trade stands and more raffle prizesadditions including Florence London and Omybagamsterdam.
The Forest Edge Bowl was well fought, but the Fyfield Flyers just couldn’t get the finish, leaving the Property Makers with a 8.5-0 win.
Stevie McCraith’s pony Lascels won the Polo Times BPP with Milly Hughes winning the Polo Times MVP.
The Vera Cup was an incredible display of polo! It was neck and neck into the final chukka but Hampshire Polo School had the edge winning 8-5.
Lolly Stanhope-White wining WIP MVP
Heloise-Wilson Smith pony Locura won WIP BPP
The 8 goal was an even closer game, going goal for goal until the final few minutes. It was however All That Jazz that came out on top winning 8-6.5.
Harry Pittard won Polo Times MVP
Stevie McCraith again winning Polo Times BPP with Papita.
Despite the wind, the day was an incredible success- raising over £3,500.
The total raised by this event now stands at £6,600- a total I never imagined getting to! Bring on 2020!!!!
Despite the wind, the day was an incredible success
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Club News
Last weekend the Scottish themed 4 goal Mountgerald Polo Tournament took place. Both teams in the final ended the match sipping whiskey from the Quaish Trophy, a tradition amongst friends in the highlands pf Scotland. It was a compete feats of haggis and BBQ, a fabulous weekend of food and Scottish tradition.
Congratulations to Redex, the winners of the Second to last chance Cup!
Great win this weekend at Cheshire Polo Club for the polo player trophy. Congratulations Fyfield Flyers, winners off the Codestone Cup and some fancy parmesan graters. The Copra Cup was also a draw, hurrah, we like those!
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Thank you everyone for a great autumn cup at Westcroft Park Poo club. Congratulations to the winners of the 0 goal Next Gen Polo and the runners up Allegria.
Congratulations to Lodge Service for taking home the Cheltenham Cup Trophy in a closely fought final. MVP was awarded to Mikeyt Henderson. Best playing pony was awarded to “Truffle” played and owned by Matthew Perry. Well done yo Tomlinson Equine for winning the Subsidiary final against Noon Giraffe.
Saragarhi Polo team’s first tournament win! Massive thank you to Offchurch Bury polo Club for having us down and giving us such a challenging match
Hac regain the TJB 105 trophy at Ham on saturday A very busy weekend for Branham polo acadamy at Toulston. Novice Challenge on Saturday and Potrillos Juniors on Sunday!
Elixar / Scandal Candy - winners of the Groundsmans’s Trophy. Not a bad way to end another cracking season.
Congratulations to La Ruleta for winning the Solitaire Salver with a final score of 10-4! Thank you to HUSK for Kindly providing prizes. 55
#lalowgoal Saving the nation’s scrolling fingers
Use the hashtag or tag us in your photos on Instagram and facebook to be featured next month!
This months submissions
#lalowgoal @gill_polo Learning how to ride the best you can at all times is paramount for polo - here is young Emir Gill practicing sprint starts on Bugra Brazilian Thoroughbred in todays training.
@george.ed.williams
Carmen stick and balling
This Month’s Contributors: -
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Ignacio Fernandez Llorente The HPA Jenifer Little Chukka Wellness Jason Warren Alicia Woods Nico San Roman Play for a cure Gill Polo George Williams
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