The Indian Polo Awards Season 2

Hundred + 91th Edition

THE CRÈME DE LA CRÈME OF POLO: THE WINNERS

Celebrating the champions within, the second Edition of La Polo The Indian Polo Awards (TIPA) was fitting honour for the royal sport.

The crème de la crème of Polo: The Winners

Celebrating the champions within, the second Edition of La Polo The Indian Polo Awards (TIPA) took the celebrations to another level, in New Delhi, on the night of 6 November 2022.

Code Silver honours a Royal Tradition

The Trophy of the The Indian Polo Awards, designed by Code Silver, incorporated the essence of the sport, the valour involved, and the timeless royal tradition the sport is associated with.

Incredible Rajasthan Partners with TIPA

The state of Rajasthan has always supported the growth of Polo as an important aspect of its “experiential tourism”. Besides, Polo and Rajasthan espouse the same values of tradition and excellence.

Shivani Joshi

At La Polo, we are working hard to actively create a legacy that honours our passion for the royal sport. The Indian Polo Awards( TIPA) are not only important but essential for the sport to grow and we thank everyone who has stood with us in our journey. While La Polo is the prime venue for the front-page scoop of Polo around the world, TIPA will act as a channel to commemorate everything that has been achieved through the tenacious and pioneering faces of the sport.

The second edition of The Indian Polo Awards strengthens the edifice of La Polo’s continuing efforts to reimagine and reestablish the prominence of the regal sport internationally. Celebrating the Champions within, the motto from which The Indian Polo Awards has been imagined and constructed and supported by the Polo fraternity at large. The platform is a token of appreciation for those who stood for Polo and the ones who are putting in untiring efforts to glorify it.

The night put forward the best in the game, appreciating the countless days and months of preparation that go into making a game of Polo. La Polo’s forever aim to consolidate the foundation of Polo in India is being achieved through The Indian Polo Awards. The comeback this year strengthened the conviction of the event as an expected annual celebration for our Polo heroes. The grooms, trainers, ground to the teams and players; the awards are an ode to the living memory of Polo.

We feel blessed and eternally grateful to host the esteemed and dynamite enthusiasts of the sport as the whole fraternity gathered to celebrate the spirit of the age old game. One can’t put into words the gratifying feeling of getting the opportunity to venerate the benign advocates of the sport that were present, and those who couldn’t mark their attendance but showered us with blessings through their positive words.

It was an extraordinary night that will live in our memories forever. It was a true honour to honour the gleaming stars of Polo under the rosecoloured twinkling sky, To give back to the people who have spent a lifetime being a crucial yet concealed part of the sport.

It would have not been possible without our partners: Rajasthan Tourism, Code Silver and Wedding Asia and team that worked round the clock to make this a success!

THE CRÈME DE LA CRÈME

Celebrating the champions within, the second Edition of La Polo The Indian Polo Awards (TIPA) was a much awaited event. Polo world comprises the contributions of not only the players and horses seen on the field, but also the behindthe-scenes stars, who work tirelessly for Polo to keep shining always, to keep traditions alive in the sport, while creating new benchmarks each time. Filled with even greater grandeur and glory this year, TIPA took the celebrations to another level, in New Delhi, on the night of 6 November 2022.

CRÈME OF POLO: THE WINNERS

To acknowledge and celebrate the players and all contributors to the sport of Polo world, TIPA pays a fitting tribute to the royal sport. While the sport has travelled the world, it also finds its modern roots in India, along with the royal connections that worked passionately to keep the sport going for years.

La Polo The Indian Polo Award lauds the most event illustrious contributions to Polo. The awards honour the uncompromising spirit dedicated to Polo, by recognising true sportsmanship, and people who have been unflinchingly and loyally contributing to the glory of

the sport. “The second Edition of LA POLO The Indian Polo Awards sheds light on the sterling contribution of all leading names as well as the background contribution of all professionals of the Polo world, from groomsmen to players and ponies, to the teams. The Awards provide a

TIPA HALL OF FAME

The Promising Polo Player

Winner: Kuldeep Singh Rathore

The one who promises to carry forward the legacy of this royal sport and keep the spirit of the sport alive. The Promising Polo Player award went fittingly to Kuldeep Singh Rathore, who uplifts the standards of the game by his unflinching effort towards the sport.

platform to celebrate the champions and achievers of the Polo universe without whom the magnificence of the sport wouldn’t have seen the light of the day,” said Maninder Singh, Editor-inChief, LA POLO. TIPA is a fitting honour and recognition of each pillar of the Polo world that is

responsible for the grand success of the sport, and recognises the pioneering efforts of all contributors, who work ceaselessly to hone talent and achieve excellence in the sport. The nominations and winners were based on the Indian Polo Seasons of 2020 and 2021.

Young Polo Player

Winner:

Hurr Ali

The award for the Young Polo Player is for the player who strives in the face of every danger and is destined to emerge victorious at an early age. Amongst the brilliant nominations, the esteemed Award was lifted by Hurr Ali, also known as the “young gun”, for always putting in an outstanding performance.

Emerging Polo Player

Winner: Dino Dhankar and Vishwarupe Bajaj Dino Dhankar and Vishwarupe Bajaj were the co-recipients of the Emerging Polo Player, an award which applauds the emerging champions, the future of Polo in the country.

Jammu & Kashmir Army Polo Player

Winner: Lt Col Vishal Chauhan

The fathomless spirit of Lt Col Vishal Chauhan made him stand out among the nominations. He was awarded the Jammu and Kashmir Army Polo Player award for the display of great valour and skill in the game.

Patiala The International Polo Player

Winner: Daniel Otamendi

Amongst the lineup of some cherished Polo players, Daniel Otamendi lifted the elite title of Patiala The international Polo Player Award aimed for those who endeavour a brilliant performance at all times.

Jodhpur Lady Polo Player

Winner: Monica Saxena

This prestigious award of Jodhpur Lady Polo Player is for the sportswoman who waded unafraid despite the challenges with panache and grace. The trophy was lifted by Monica Saxena for breaking barriers and setting higher milestones for more to follow

Jaipur Polo Patron

Winner: Parul Rai and Vikram Rathore

The esteemed trophy of the Jaipur Polo Patron was lifted by Parul Rai and Vikram Rathore for their matchless contribuition to the world of Polo.

Best Team Low Goal

Winner: Army Service Corps (ASC)

Portraying the fearless energy and enthusiasm of the forces, the Best Team Low Goal Award was bestowed upon the Army Service Corps for their applauseworthy performances in Polo

Gwalior Best Pony Winner: Rapper

The winner of the Gwalior Best Pony Award was Rapper for the supreme display of atheletic stamina, agility and speed, and ticking every such box on a perfect pony’s list.

Best Team High Goal Winner: Sahara Warriors

Exemplifying the fiery spirit of the sport of Polo, the Best Team High Goal Award was recieved by Sahara Warriors for their impeccable sportsmanship, skilled performances and famed valour.

Baroda The Traditional Polo Player Winner: Abdul Manaan

There is no greater virtue than to uphold the values instilled by the custodians of our heritage.Those custodians are the traditional players when it comes to Polo. The esteemed trophy was lifted by Abdul Manaan for his commendable efforts.

Bhopal Pataudi Best Polo Ground Winner: Jaipur Polo Grounds

Amongst other great nominations, the Bhopal Pataudi Best Polo Ground was bestowed upon the Jaipur Polo Grounds for its excellent maintenance that’s required to achieve memorable heights in the game.

Alwar The Polo Trainer Civil Winner: Risaldar Bhawani Singh

Risaldar Bhawani Singh was awarded for his commendable behindthe-scene service

Alwar The Polo Trainer Army Winner: LD Nadeem Ali

LD Nadeem Ali was awarded for his commendable behindthe-scene service

Contribution to Polo Winner: Naveen Jindal

This is a special award to one of the steadfast pillars of Indian Polo today. The winner of this award, Naveen Jindal, has been a brilliant Polo player and his contribuitions to the Polo universe is unmatchable.

The Most Valuable Polo Player Award Winner: Sawai Padmanabh Singh of Jaipur

All players in a polo team have defined roles. The value of a player to his team is not linked to goals, rather how well the player has executed his role. The Award went to the most regal Sawai Padmanabh Singh who has pushed the benchmark in the sport.

The Polo Groom Winner: Hanuman Vinayaka

Without these hard working Polo grooms working tirelessly on and off the fields, the sport of Polo is not possible. The Alwar Polo Groom Award was bestowed upon Hanuman Vinayaka for his efforts and devotion towards the sport.

La Polo Lifetime Achievement Winner: Capt Amrinder

Singh

This is for the one whose dedication to the sport has travelled through years, whose efforts and contribuitions to Polo have carried forward the legacy of the sport with unwavering devotion. The LA POLO Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon the revered Capt Amrinder Singh whose contribuitions to Polo have been remarkable.

A STAR

STUDDED NIGHT OF POLO

(06.11.2022)

The Indian Polo Awards were filled with the Champions of Polo. The whole fraternity gathered to give them a round of applause for their grind and diligence to keep the spirit of Polo alive.

INCREDIBLE RAJASTHAN PARTNERS WITH TIPA

The state of Rajasthan has always supported the growth of Polo as an important aspect of its “experiential tourism”. Besides, Polo and Rajasthan espouse the same values of tradition and excellence.

olo roots go back to ancient times. Celebrating the spirit of the sport in its modern essence, LA POLO The Indian Polo Awards (TIPA) recognized and lauded the unwavering determination of the players, families, and trainers who spent countless hours honing talent in the sport. Notable names of the Polo world gathered to crown the leaders. Leaders from a melange of industries came to honor the achievers. Rajasthan, the incredible state of India, boasts numerous Havelis and palaces, where traditional fervor

continues to rule the roost, matched step-in-step with the glamour of the sport that thrives on valor and finesse, where royalty and excellence are ancient pillars. Rajasthan is a truly vibrant state where modernity sits easily with tradition–just the way Polo is, an ancient pastime that is still enjoying the limelight among fervent sports lovers.

H.H. Maharaja Gaj Singh of Jodhpur-Marwar and H.H. Rajmata Shubhangini Raje Gaekwad of Baroda graced the Awards event, inspiring young

and old players to hold on to their oath to only strive for the best always. Talking about the Indian Polo Awards, Dr Rashmi Sharma, Director Tourism, Rajasthan, said “We are delighted to partner with the second edition of ‘The Indian Polo Awards’(TIPA) which will motivate the players as well as every individual who is directly or indirectly associated with the Polo sport”.

“Polo has always been a game associated with the heritage of Rajasthan that represents adventure, teamwork and the Royal traditional legacy.

“Events like these not only inspire the players/sportspersons but also help us to promote and encourage

adventure sports in Rajasthan and also to highlight it as a perfect destination for Adventure Tourism”

The state of Rajasthan, where stories of this time-honored sport are intermingled with many royalfamilies, extended wholehearted support to be the partner for the second Edition of The Indian PoloAwards. Polo and Rajasthan, the royal state, are inextricably woven together, for posterity.

Code Silver honours a Royal Tradition

The Trophy of the The Indian Polo Awards, designed by Code Silver, incorporated the essence of the sport, the valour involved, and the timeless royal tradition the sport is associated with.

Since antiquity, Polo has been known to be the game of Kings. It has enjoyed continued patronage among the ruling class. The prime reason for the sport’s popularity has been linked to the mental and physical challenges involved in the game. It’s one of the oldest team sports, unlike any other, that showcases the powerful bond between a player, his/her fellow team players

“It is awe-inspiring to see sportsmanship being celebrated with such flourish, and Code Silver is appreciative of the opportunity to be a part of it.”

and the equine partners. Every move in the game is an exhilarating display of athleticism and poise. The modern-day version of the sport was derived from a similar variant played in Manipur, a few centuries ago. Polo thrived with the advent of the British in the subcontinent. Its moment of glory began with the establishment of the oldest polo club in existence, the Calcutta Polo Club, in 1862. Its popularity among the British soldiers stationed in India shot up exponentially, prompting them to import the game into Britain. While the sport continued to prosper in several countries, its prominence in India began to

fade with the exit of the British. Today, with greater enthusiasm among young Indians to rediscover their country’s vibrant heritage, Polo is again gaining prominence. To galvanize interest in the sport, LaPolo announced The Indian Polo Awards. Keeping with its tradition of celebrating the timeless elan and the undaunted spirit of skilled sportsmanship, this year’s theme, “The Art of Sportsmanship”, focused on the caliber and the dedication that is innate to the persona of the polo sportsperson. And to acknowledge that effort through a token of appreciation, the awards collaborated with JaipurBased Code Silver.

Established in 2010, Code Silver is home to artisans crafting delicate pieces of silverware. It works on imbuing each element of its handcrafted silverware with the rich heritage of the local region. Its singular vision to create sophisticated works of art is reflected in the vast oeuvre. Code Silver has garnered much appreciation for its work in recent years, and its illustrious list of patrons include the royal houses of Bharatpur,

Santrampur, Jaipur and Khimsar, among others.

It designed and developed the exquisite trophies presented to the champions of the evening at the Indian Polo Awards.

Talking about the inspiration behind the design, Shikha Durlabhji, Founder of Code Silver, says: “The awards honour the legacy of traditional polo in India, which has been cherished for

centuries. This year’s awards pay tribute to the trailblazers of the sport who are constantly pushing the envelope. In keeping with this sentiment, our brand embodies the essence of luxury, as presented in the trophy.”

Describing the stunning gold-tinted horse figurehead that adorns the trophy, she says, “A lot of brainstorming went to crafting the trophy. We included the figurehead and polo mallet to inculcate

the most important elements of the sport. As for the goldblack embellishment, the elegance of that colour combination works on conveying the chic quality that the sport evokes.”

As a parting note, she adds, “It is awe-inspiring to see sportsmanship being celebrated with such flourish, and Code Silver is appreciative of the opportunity to be a part of it.”

XII FIP WORLD POLO CHAMPIONSHIP

The grand Championship of Polo had 8 countries, namely Argentina, Australia, Italy, Mexico, Pakistan, Spain, Uruguay, and United States, contesting against each other for the ultimate Championship trophy.

Date Team and Scores

October 29, 2022 Mexico (4 ½) Vs Argentina (10)

October 29, 2022 Pakistan (7 ½) Vs Spain (9)

October 29, 2022 Italy (3 ½) Vs Uruguay (9)

October 29, 2022 Australia (4) Vs USA (9)

October 31, 2022 Argentina (13) Vs Pakistan (1.5)

October 31, 2022 Spain (11) Vs Mexico (4½)

October 31, 2022 Uruguay(9) Vs Australia (7½)

October 31, 2022 USA (4) Vs Italy (6)

November 2, 2022 Italy (8 ½) Vs Australia (5)

November 2, 2022 Uruguay (7) Vs USA (7 ½)

November 2, 2022 Spain (3 ½) Vs Argentina (6)

November 4, 2022 Argentina (8) Vs USA (9)

November 4, 2022 Uruguay (7) Vs Spain (10 ½)

November 6, 2022 Mexico (8) Vs Pakistan (11)

November 6, 2022 Argentina (7 ½) Vs Uruguay (9)

November 6, 2022 USA (10) Vs Spain (11)

Source: (Instagram) @lapoloindia

HOPE ARELLANO CREATES HISTORY

Memorable and historic, the XII FIP Championship would be talked about for years to come as it paved the way for new beginnings. Hope Arellano, a teenager from Wellington, became the first woman to compete in this tournament by joining her elder brother Agustin and the rest of the USA team. The FIP World Polo Championship concluded with Team Spain taking home the Championship trophy. They were followed by Team USA winning the silver medal and Team Uruguay earning the bronze medal. The winning goal of the final match was made by Spain’s Pelayo Berazadi, leading to the joyous hoots of Spain’s Polo patrons as the country ushered in the championship trophy for the first time.

CINGARY HAVANA CAVALRY

GOLD CUP

The 10-goal tournament played out between 26th October - 30th October with exciting and passion-filled games.

Date Team and Scores

26th October, 2022

Buchi’s Boys (10) Vs Cavalry Achievers (3)

26th October, 2022 Jindal Panthers (2) Vs Achievers Vishwasamudra (7)

27th October, 2022

Sujan Indian Tigers (8) Vs Cavalry Achievers (2)

27th October, 2022

Rajnigandha Achievers (5) Vs Jindal Panthers (2)

28th October, 2022

Sujan Indian Tigers (10) Vs Buchi’s Boys (5)

28th October, 2022

Rajnigandha Achievers (6) Vs Achievers Vishwasamudra (4)

30th October, 2022

Rajnigandha Achievers (7) Vs Sujan Indian Tigers (8)

Source: (Instagram) @lapoloindia

INDIAN MASTERS POLO CHAMPIONSHIP

In this 14 goal tournament, teams Rajnigandha Achievers, Sujan Indian Tigers, Sujan-Sona and Jindal Panther fought for the prestigious trophy from 7th November to 13th November 2022.

Date Teams and Scores

9th November, 2022 Sujan-Sona (12) Vs Jindal Panther (11)

9th November, 2022 Rajnigandha Achievers (9) Vs Sujan Indian Tigers (12)

11th November, 2022 Rajnigandha Achievers (10) Vs Sujan-Sona (7)

11th November, 2022 Jindal Panther (12) Vs Sujan Indian Tigers (11)

13th November, 2022 Jindal Panther (8) Vs Rajnigandha Achievers (10)

Source: (Instagram) @lapoloindia

HOUSE OF PATAUDI: BHOPAR-PATAUDI CUP (08 GOAL)

The prestigious tournament was filled with exuberant battles and ended with team Rajnigandha Achievers winning the final match.

Date Team and Scores

13th October, 2022 Mayfair Polo (9) Vs Amyza Polo (5 ½)

14th October, 2022 Jindal Panther (6) Vs Sujan Indian Tigers (7)

14th October, 2022 Kara Polo (5) Vs Col Girdhari Singh ASC (7)

14th October, 2022 Amyza Polo (3) Vs Rajnigandha Achievers (10)

15th October, 2022 Sujan Indian Tigers (6) Vs Kara Polo (8)

15th October, 2022 Jindal Panthers (10) Vs Col Girdhari Singh ASC (11)

15th October, 2022 Mayfair Polo (4) Vs Rajnigandha Achievers (5)

16th October, 2022 Col Girdhari Singh ASC (6) Vs Rajnigandha Achievers (7)

Source: (Instagram) @lapoloindia

UMAID BHAWAN PALACE: SIR PRATAP SINGH CUP (14 GOAL)

The adrenaline filled tournament was packed with some highly anticipated matches. The tournament ended with an energy packed finale in which Sahara Warriors came out on top.

Date Team and Scores

2nd November, 2022 Jindal Panthers (8) Vs Sona-Sujan (6)

2nd November, 2022 Sujan Indian Tigers (6) Vs Sahara Warriors (7)

4th November, 2022 Jindal Panther (10) Vs Sujan Indian Tigers (7)

4th November, 2022 Sahara Warriors (12) Vs Sona-Sujan (8)

6th November, 2022 Sahara Warriors (11) Vs Jindal Panthers (8)

Source: (Instagram) @lapoloindia

WELCOMING THE 23RD JODHPUR POLO SEASON

Organized by the Jodhpur Polo and Equestrian Institute (JPEI), the Blue City embarks on the 23rd Jodhpur Polo Season. Three IPA tournaments and eight one-day exhibition games have been lined up from 6th December to 31st December. “Jodhpur is the Alma Mater of Modern Polo in India; it is home to legends both past and in the making. The Season this year shall mark added joy after the Pandemic and we are hoping for a wonderful turnout with some of the World’s most renowned players and patrons. From a world-class ground to Marwar’s legendary hospitality, culture and joie de vivre - Jodhpur Polo Season showcases the best of sporting and cultural heritage!” stated The Chief guest of the tournament, Maharaja of Jodhpur, His Highness Maharaja Gajsingh IICalifornia, on Sunday, September 11.

Schedule tournaments:

Tournament Dates

Umaid Bhawan Palace Cup Polo (4 Goals)

H.H. Maharaja of Jodhpur Cup (8 Goals)

Rajputana and Central India Cup (10 Goals)

Maharaja of Jodhpur Golden Jubilee Cup (10 Goals)

6th December, 2022 - 9th December, 2022

14th December 2022 - 18th December 2022

19th December 2022 - 24th December 2022

27th December 2022 - 31st December 2022

One-day exhibition matches:

Match Date

The British Army Vs Jodhpur Eagles Match

9th December 2022

The H.H. Maharaja Hanwant Singh Cycle Polo Exhibition Match 9th December 2022

Mayo Vs Eton Match 10th December 2022

The Mathura Das Mathur Memorial Polo Cup 11thDecember 2022

The Maj. Th. Sardar Singh Jasol Memorial Cup, presented by Th. Jaswant Singhji Jasol 12th December 2022

Maharaja Sardar Singh Cup, Presented by Sardar Club 16th December 2022

The Army Commander’s Cup, presented by Army Commander, Southern Command 22nd December 2022

The Hermes Cup, presented by Mons. Patrick Guerrand Hermes, Ex-President Federation 24th December 2022

The Bhanwar Baiji Lal Vaara Rajye Polo Cup, presented by H.H. Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Jodhpur-Marwar

26th December 2022

The Indian Air Force Longewala Polo Cup & Air show, presented by AOC-in-C, SWAC, IAF 20th December 2022

The Abu Seir Cup, presented by Farouk Younes, F.I.P. Ambassador of Egypt 30th December 2022

RAJASTHAN POLO CLUB

Rajasthan Polo Club is organising the upcoming December Polo Season 8-goal and 10-goal tournaments have been lined up from 28th November, 2022 - 11th December, 2022. The matches will be held at Rajasthan Polo Club and 61 Cavalry.

Tournament Dates

TBA (8 Goals) 28th November 2022 - 4th December 2022

Sternhagen Bhavnagar Polo Trophy (10 goals)

5th December 2022 - 11th December

RALPH LAUREN PURPLE LABEL

Ralph Lauren launched its fall 2022 collection, The Ralph Lauren Purple Label. It’s an allusion to equestrian artistry and design. Browns, nudes, blacks, and grays are ubiquitous in the collection. This year’s edition contains a seasonal blend with equestrian elegance, including a rich brown suede dress, brown suede over-shirts, trousers, and leather belts. The colour tones are finely matched, expressing contemporary equestrian fashion. The range offers worsted-wool sweaters, Chesterfield coats, and reversible vests, making them an ideal choice for everyday equine activities of a polo groom.

BEN MAEHR CROWNED FOR THE THIRD TIME AT LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR

Longines Global Champions Tour brings together top show jumpers in the world to compete in prestigious locations. This year’s LGCT was held beneath the expansive skies of historic Diriyah, Riyadh, Dubai. The players stood at the pedestal, holding their breaths, their faces glistering with valor and worry. The first position went to Ben Maehr, who was crowned for the third time. The jump by Maehr was accomplished at an unbelievable height of four vaults. Pieter Devos, Christian Ahlmann, Malin Baryard-Johnsson, Jur Vrieling, and Daniel Deusser battled against Ben for other positions.

WOMEN’S INTERNATIONAL TENT PEGGING CHAMPIONSHIP

Team India participated in the Women’s International Tent Pegging Championship organized between 22 to 24 September in Wadi Rum, Jordan. The Indian team won the bronze cup in the finals after a historic victory. The players who marvelously represented Team India were Ritika Dahia, Priyanka Bhardwaj, and Khushi Singh, who finished with 136 points after competing against 14 countries.

EVENTING CATEGORY’S YOUNGEST QUALIFIER FOR ASIAN GAMES

Chirag Khandal, 18, is the youngest competitor in the history of Individual Eventing. He has qualified for the Asian Games. He is currently training in France and is number one in his category. Chirag Khandel’s name is like a shining star, illuminating the skies and broadening the gamut.