VOL 2 ISSUE 9
Adventures in Luxury
Geoffrey Kent
The man who put luxury safari on the map
Milan
City of Expo 2015
PRINCE HARRY
Making a difference fifthchukker.com fifthchukkermagazine.com
Boundaries are for countries, not for our transaction solutions. Across Africa, we’ve been connecting businesses and individuals to limitless opportunities with our transaction solutions. Our understanding of the market ensures that we are better placed to provide your business with safe and seamless solutions and services that enable your business achieve much more.
Transaction solutions you can depend on.
To find out more on how our intelligent transaction solutions can help your business visit www.interswitchgroup.com or contact us on +234 1-9065000 www.facebook.com/InterswitchGroup twitter.com/InterswitchGRP www.linkedin.com/company/interswitch-limited
Contents VOL 2 ISSUE 9
7
CHAIRMAN’S FOREWORD Ahmed Dasuki
9
EDITOR’S LETTER Yasemen Kaner-White
LAST SEASON AT FIFTH CHUKKER
10 THE ACCESS BANK UNICEF CHARITY SHIELD 2015 Charity Shield (20 goals) Access Bank cup (12 goals) UNICEF Cup (5 goals) Argentina National Day/ Argentine Ambassador’s Cup 20 ‘ACCESS BANK POLO DAY’ AT GUARDS POLO CLUB, UK Access Bank and Fifth Chukker continue to support UNICEF
INTERNATIONAL POLO HIGHLIGHTS
25 L A MARTINA BRITISH LADIES OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP AT COWDRAY PARK First to be played in the UK under the new handicapping system 27 GOLD CUP King Power Foxes rule Britannia
32 THE SPORT OF KINGS GIVES BACK ‘Hug a Pony’ campaign Children’ s Day – when the privileged unite with the under-privileged
POLO PEOPLE
40 GEOFFREY KENT The man who put luxury safari on the map 45 PRINCE HARRY Determined to make a difference
THE BUSINESS SECTION
48 T HE SOLAR POWER WAY Availability of electrical power on the African continent is at a low point 51 CLEAN FUTURE – PIONEERS Driven by boldness, a pioneering spirit and renewable energy, Piccard and Borschberg are flying around the world
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
55 LONGCHAMP Creativity founded on savoir-faire
BUSINESS PROFILE
62 DAVID TIMEHIN The man who lets his clothes speak for him…
ART IN FOCUS
71 ESTEBAN DIAZ MATHE Gauchos & horses – passion in art
102 THE MEDITERRANEAN KITCHEN – FOOD OF THE SUN For decades now nutritionists have been shouting about the virtues of the Mediterranean diet
ADVENTURES IN SPORT
79 THE HEART OF YOGA The practice is so much more than just being bendy 85 MONTENEGRIN YOGA RETREAT Quick & easy tips to improve your emotional well being & physical health
FEATURE DESTINATION 87 MILAN – CITY OF EXPO 2015 Milan is a city renowned for its art, culture and high fashion 100 ST MORITZ – THE EQUESTRIAN’S DREAM For the first time ever, the annual international show jumping event: Longines CSI St. Moritz
CUISINE SCENE
112 AOSTA VALLEY Where the streets are ‘paved’ with polenta
GOOD BOOKS
BOOK REVIEW 114 Safari – Geoffrey Kent This specialised tome is an engaging cornucopia of entertaining derring-do on the part of Kent 115 Go Set a Watchman – Harper Lee Nellie Harper Lee sourced the title from an Old Testament passage; Isaiah 21:6 119 WHO’S READING FIFTH CHUKKER 123 INTERNATIONAL POLO
CLUB DIRECTORY
CHAIRMAN’S FOREWORD
“I could not be more proud of the example of philanthropic involvement, at all levels, that Fifth Chukker continues to set...”
W
ith the end of yet another polo season here at Fifth Chukker, it never ceases to amaze me how fast ‘the pages of the calendar’ fly by. It seems only yesterday that we kicked off the season in May with another fantastic Access Bank UNICEF Charity Shield Tournament: the opening weekend began with a celebration of the Argentine National Day with Ambassador Gustavo Dzugala and many of his diplomatic colleagues from Abuja in attendance. In conjunction with our long-standing partners UNICEF, Fifth Chukker hosted one hundred and fifty children from local schools for a day-long celebration of the International Children’s Day which happily coincided with the tournament. The highlight of the day was the presentation of the ‘Hug a Pony’ pillows. Made by hand by children from private schools as part of their community service, they were given to those children from the schools identified by UNICEF with the most needs. I could not be more proud of the example of philanthropic involvement, at all levels, that Fifth Chukker continues to set of what the ‘Sport of Kings’ can do to give back and make a difference in our communities.
We then moved on from Fifth Chukker in June to host the UK Access Bank Day at the iconic Guards Polo Club. We were honored that the Emir of Kano, HRH Muhammadu Sanusi II was able to take time out of his busy schedule to attend the event. Although somewhat typical English weather greeted us, all in attendance enjoyed the day, especially with Adolfo Cambiaso’s young son, Adolfo Cambiaso Vazquez ‘stealing the show’ on the field. As the African Patron’s Cup is played during the International Breast Cancer Awareness designated month of October, Fifth Chukker will, for the fourth year, host a Pink Polo Day amongst a series of ‘Pink Hope’ events as part of this awareness Campaign. We continue to be committed to raising awareness and assisting in the effort to educate women from all backgrounds. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all who continue to support Fifth Chukker’s efforts in supporting our communities. As we all work together we can indeed make that difference! AHMED DASUKI Chairman of the Board of Trustees
BOARD MEMBERS ADAMU ATTA, BABANGIDA HASSAN, UMARU ALIYU, AYO OLASHOJU, KASHIM BUKAR SHETTIMA
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
7
EDITOR’S LETTER
I
t seems like yesterday I was writing the Editor’s letter for the eighth edition, and here we are, already at the ninth. In May, I visited Fifth Chukker; Kaduna, for the very first time. Seeing is believing, and only now can I appreciate the huge hospitality extended within this luxury complex. I am not alone in noting these qualities; we welcomed a number of Ambassadors to join us for thrilling polo for The Access Bank UNICEF Charity Shield Tournament, as well as tucking into a yummy asado and a spot of salsa dance. The theme of feedback was common, as summarised by Polish Ambassador Przemek Niesiolowski, “Fifth Chukker for me is not about polo or horses alone. This is the place, and I mean the people behind it, that will be a reference point for the real development of tourist industry in Nigeria.” Celebrations with marked events continued for Fifth Chukker, from Kaduna to England, where we co-hosted a fabulous event with Access Bank at the prestigious Guards Polo Club for the Access Bank Polo Day. Copious amounts of money was raised as was awareness of the support needed for orphaned and vulnerable children in Nigeria. Fifth Chukker, both with Children’s Day and ‘Hug a Pony’ further pressed these issues, by raising vital funds. On the theme of altruism, Prince Harry, renowned for his many charitable patronages, is also co-founder of the Africa based ‘Sentebale’, the story of which, including how his polo playing raises money, is found within.
Editor - YASEMEN KANER-WHITE Editorial Team - TERRI M. BRENNAN, YUSUF SAAB, BARBARA PATRICIA ZINGG, ONYEKA UDECHUKWU Journalists - YASEMEN KANER-WHITE, ABDUL IMOYO, FRANCES K WHITE, LILBY SKAZ, LIZ HIGGINS, TREVOR WILLIAMSON, VALERIE ZIEGLER, AHMAD ALMUSTAPHA, EMMA THOMSON, JAN FUSCOE, JENNY CHANDLER. Photography - SHEYI AFOLABI AND TONY RAMIREZ, additional contributors credited Design - TONI BARRINGTON, THE MAGAZINE PRODUCTION COMPANY www.magazineproduction.com
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
“Lastly, what would life be without travel, relaxation and food to lift our spirits?”
Our other polo person this edition, is Geoffrey Kent, of luxury travel company – Abercrombie and Kent, specialising in Inspiration Expeditions, a meeting in his London mews offers an insight into his fascinating life, as does our Good Books review on his recently published tome; ‘Safari’. Another man whose tale I told, is David Timehin, whom I met recently in Nigeria, having the pleasure to see first-hand a fashion shoot displaying his creative works. Talking of creative, Argentine artist Esteban Diaz Mathe, has been hailing the horse through his masterpieces for sometime, we take a look at his latest artworks. Lastly, what would life be without travel, relaxation and food to lift our spirits? Our feature destination Milan, explores this year’s Expo theme, ‘Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life’. Our Cuisine Scene delves into everything Mediterranean. I take you on a culinary Aosta Valley tour, as well as a peek into my Montenegrin retreat, while our sports feature focuses on the powers of yoga. As always, I hope you enjoy the read, and this magazine finds you in a healthy and happy place. With warmest wishes,
YASEMEN KANER-WHITE Editor
Fifth Chukker Magazine is a publication of Fifth Chukker Polo & Country Club Whilst every care has been taken in the compilation of this publication to provide up-to-date and accurate information, we cannot guarantee that inaccuracies will not occur. All material presented are used in good faith and whenever possible, permissions have been applied for. The publisher will not be held responsible for any loss, damage or inconvenience caused as a result of any inaccuracy or error within these pages.
9
CHARITY SHIELD
The Access Bank UNICEF Charity Shield
8 years on, Africa’s top Charity Polo event gets even bigger Lilby Skaz
The Access Bank UNICEF Charity Shield once again proved why it is the biggest charity polo event in Africa and one of the high points on the International calendar. Patrons and players from around the world converged at Nigeria’s grand Fifth Chukker Polo and Country Club, for the 2015 tournament which raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for UNICEF.
10
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
CHARITY SHIELD
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
11
CHARITY SHIELD
“The communities will know the primary concerns of parents, girls and boys. Together they can develop networks for support to keep schools safe for children,” Jean Gough UNICEF Country Representative, Nigeria
TOURNAMENT HIGHLIGHTS CHARITY SHIELD (20 GOALS)
Africa’s top polo prize remains the 20-goal Charity Shield, which continues to showcase some of the best international talents. Host team Access Bank Fifth Chukker went into the tournament ardently to win a fourth successive title. In a three-way battle, Keffi Ponys were narrowly outpaced for a play-off place after coming short in two matches, leaving Access Bank Fifth (Dikko Mangal 0, Adamu Atta +3, Manuel Crespo +7, Larin Zubeiro +7) and Lintex Titans to play for the championship. Thousands watched as the two teams took to the field in a thrilling final where Lintex Titans (Khalifa Ibrahim +2, Bashir Bashir Danatata +3, Tom de Bruin +7, Santiago Sarnadas +6) had the early advantage on account of handicap award, and stoutly held on to the lead well into the fifth chukka with some feisty and determined play. Nonetheless, Access Bank Fifth Chukker did eventually catch up to edge ahead. The Titans rallied robustly as the match tapered off but the Access Bank Fifth Chukker foursome were not to be denied, holding on to win it 8-6. Kaduna state deputy Governor Bala Bantex and Access Bank executive director Victor Etuokwu were invited to present the Charity Shield and individual prizes to the two teams. Lintex Titans’ Tom de Bruin received the Most Valuable Player award and a super smart Phone from Samsung’s Kayode Thomas.
12
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
CHARITY SHIELD
Images: ŠMichel Jamoneau
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
13
CHARITY SHIELD
UNICEF CUP (5 GOALS)
When Peugeot dangled its model 301 Allure prestige for the Most Valuable Player (MVP), it instantly electrified the UNICEF cup and guaranteed a fiercer competition amongst the 10 team entries - Fas Agro Sacks, Sultana Farms, Trapco Liberty, Biz Mikmash, Susplan, Maigari Farms, Meridian Air, Titans, MTN and Akasma. The fixtures allowed for the two top teams from each of the three leagues, plus the next two best teams to progress to the quarter-finals. After rounds of tense and keenly contested matches through to the semi-finals, Kaduna MTN and Kano Susplan emerged to play for the title. That said, the championship match never lived up to the billing as MTN proved too strong for Susplan, pulling away from the very first chukka and becoming even stronger and stronger as the match went on. There was little the Kano team could do to inhibit the fluidity of MTN who consistently seemed to play just out of Susplan’s reach for a deserved 7-3 win. Trophy and prizes were presented by the UNICEF country representative, Dr. Jean Gough. The victorious team’s captain, Baba Dawule was adjudged the Most Valuable Player and received the coveted car from Peugeot Nigeria Managing Director Ibrahim Boyi.
14
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
CHARITY SHIELD
Images: ŠMichel Jamoneau / Francoise Sananikone Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
15
CHARITY SHIELD
ARGENTINE NATIONAL DAY/ ARGENTINE AMBASSADOR’S CUP
Arguably the marquee event of the tournament was the Argentina National Day Polo hosted by Ambassador Gustavo Dzugala to kick off the charity shield. However, the experience transcended the polo fiesta as diplomats from more than a dozen countries who swooped on Fifth Chukker relished a full itinerary of recreational bouquet all through the weekend leading up to the Monday main event. For the polo match at Fifth Chukker’s ‘Lawn 1’, spectators were treated to an entertaining spectacle of Argentine symbols and legends, including a posse of ‘Gauchos’ hoisting Argentine flags as they led out the two teams for the Argentine Ambassador’s Cup. Kaduna State Deputy Governor Bala Bantex rolled in the ball to start the closely- fought encounter with Team Fifth Chukker edging out Team Kangimi 3-2. The day was rounded off with an Asado – naturally. No authentic Argentine occasion would be complete without this celebration of seared meat and flame, where top quality beef and various other meats are cooked on an open fire grill (parrilla) and consumed with ritual accoutrements to the beat of traditional Argentine folk music. It was a fantastic day of patriotism and top class polo, all in aid of a good cause.
16
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
CHARITY SHIELD
Images: ŠMichel Jamoneau / Francoise Sananikone Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
17
CHARITY SHIELD
ACCESS BANK CUP (12 GOALS)
The Access Bank cup was the first of the three titles to be decided when Huawei and Max Air clashed in one of the more gripping encounters of the entire week. With 6-goaler Gonzalo Bourdieu leading the onslaught, Max Air started very strong and utterly dominant to go 3-0 up at the end of the first chukka. It could have been 5-0, but for some uncommon and uncharacteristic misses by the highly experienced professionals. Consequentially, it would take another two chukkas before the final became a fascinating game as straggling Huawei recovered their form to mount a spirited fight back, battling for every ball, marking hard to stem every Max Air advantage and pouncing on their opponents mistakes to score goals of their own. Nonetheless, that first chukka whitewash inevitably made it all the more mind-boggling that Max Air could score only two more goals in the remaining four chukkas as Mohammed Babangida-led Huawei, turned the form book on its head to smash their way to a sensational 6-5 upset win. Trophy and prize presentations were made by the principal guest, the Magajin Garin Zazzau, Alhaji Nuhu Bamali, assisted by the Zonal Head Commercial Banking Division of Access Bank, Joseph Ikpaanyam. Fifth Chukker promoter Adamu Atta afterward presented the traditional leader with an gelding called Tobiano on behalf of the club.
18
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
CHARITY SHIELD
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
19
UK ACCESS BANK DAY
Access Bank Group & Fifth Chukker continue to support UNICEF As part of its continued support for UNICEF, Access Bank Group and Fifth Chukker hosted the ‘Access Bank / Fifth Chukker Polo Day’ at Guards Polo Club, Windsor, on Saturday, 13th June, 2015. Abdul Imoyo
20
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
UK ACCESS BANK DAY
A
ccess Bank’s sponsorship of the biggest charity polo event in Africa, the high-profile Access Bank/ UNICEF Charity Shield Polo tournament, now in its eighth year, is geared towards providing a platform for supporting orphaned and vulnerable children in Northern Nigeria. Since the Fifth Chukker/ UNICEF/Access Bank initiative was started, it has rebuilt two schools in Kaduna in Northern Nigeria and kept over 2750 students in continuous education, simultaneously developing new school blocks, a computer literacy building; all in a more secure and friendly school environment. The communities surrounding the schools are being supported with boreholes for water, sewing and grinding machines to secure employment and stimulate economic and social development.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
21
UK ACCESS BANK DAY
“Our achievements owe a great deal to the strong partnership that we have with our parent company, as evidenced by our joint support of the fourth Access Bank / Fifth Chukker Polo Day at Guards Polo Club in Windsor.” Access Bank Plc Group Managing Director Herbert Wigwe highlighted, adding that the aim of the event at Guards Polo Club is to raise further awareness of the issues and support required. He explained, “Our support for the Fifth Chukker/ UNICEF Initiative comes from the fact that we are conscious of our role as a change agent in Nigeria that can help institute socio-economic development through responsible business practice and environmental considerations. In addition, we are continually seeking ways through which more resources can be pooled towards supporting the children. We are part of the community and as such should support its wellbeing.”
22
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
BRITISH LADIES OPEN
La Martina British Ladies Open Championship
The British Ladies Open Polo Championship was launched at Cowdray Park a decade ago when women’s polo was of a lower standard and the women’s teams were completed by the addition of one male professional player into each side. It wasn’t long before the Championship became women only and, as women’s polo has vastly improved, it has attracted much more attention and noteworthy audiences too. Liz Higgins
La Martina British Ladies both teams ©Clive Bennett
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
25
BRITISH LADIES OPEN
T
he British Ladies Open Polo Championship was launched at Cowdray Park a decade ago when women’s polo was of a lower standard and the women’s teams were completed by the addition of one male professional player into each side. It wasn’t long before the Championship became women only and, as women’s polo has vastly improved, it has attracted much more attention and noteworthy audiences too. Cowdray Park Polo Club sees the inclusion of the British Ladies Championship into the final week of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup as a very exciting addition to the Gold Cup period. The ladies final takes place on the Saturday and the men’s on Sunday, adding real momentum to the weekend. The trophy is a magnificent silver salver presented to the club by London jewelers Boodle & Dunthorne. Players handicap may go up or down at the end of this season.
La Martina British Ladies ©Clive Bennett
This year’s Championship final took place on the 18th July 2015. Six teams entered the La Martina British Ladies Open Championship at Cowdray Park which was the first to be played in the UK under the new handicapping system for women’s polo. The tournament was played at 12-18 goal level and reaching the final were Lila Pearson’s La Martina/Cowdray Vikings side and Camilla Williams’ Apes Hill/Huntington. For La Martina/Cowdray Vikings, Lila Pearson (1 goal) played at number 1, Lia Salvo (9 goals) at number 2, Hazel Jackson (8 goals) at 3 and Alex Stone (0) goals at Back. The Apes Hill/Huntingdon side included the 0 goal patron at number 1, Lottie Lamacraft (3 goals) at number 2, Lucy Taylor (4 goals) at number 3 and Nina Clarkin, at 9 goals the UK’s highest ranked lady player, at Back. Apes Hill started the match with 1½ goals on the scoreboard on handicap. First to score was Lucy Taylor for Apes Hill/Huntington, and the number 3 made several more impressive attempts at goal during the chukka. La Martina/Cowdray Vikings benefited from a foul against Hazel Jackson and Lia Salvo rolled the ball between the posts for her team’s first goal. The second chukka was pacey with some good attempts at goal but only one result on the scoreboard when Nina Clarkin popped a neat ball through the goal posts following a whistle. La Martina/Cowdray Vikings found it hard to penetrate Apes Hill/ Huntington’s defence in the third but finally Lia Salvo was able to pull one back for her side with a 30 yard penalty which she sent sailing between the posts. Plenty of action on the side of Apes Hill, however, failed to result in a goal and the chukka ended on a whistle. Play in the fourth started with a throw-in, in front of the goal which Clarkin was soon able to benefit from and Apes Hill/Huntington’s lead increased to 4½-2. Apes Hill/Huntington came back on the attack but Alex Stone for La Martina/Cowdray wasn’t afraid to take on Nina Clarkin in several plays. Then Apes Hill/La Martina grabbed an opportunity with Lucy Taylor sending a good ball to Nina Clarkin who passed to Lottie Lammacraft – her first goal of the match notching up Apes Hill/Huntington’s lead to 5½-2. At the next line-out, Lucy Taylor won the ball, left it for Nina Clarkin to send through and the score increased to 6½-2 and victory in the La Martina British Ladies Open Championship for the Apes Hill/Huntington’s side. The silver salver and individual prizes were presented by new La Martina Ambassador, George Pearson, who also presented the award for Best Playing Pony to Muffet, owned and ridden by Nina Clarkin and the Most Valuable Player Award to Alex Stone.
26
La Martina British Ladies ©Clive Bennett
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
GOLD CUP
Gold Cup King Power Foxes rule Britannia
Cowdray Park heralds a new era in British polo with an Asian billionaire teaming up with the Pieres dynasty to sweep the stakes in 2015 Trevor Williamson
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
27
GOLD CUP
T
hai tycoon Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha has emerged as the new powerhouse of British polo. Five weeks after snatching the Queen’s cup in sudden death drama at Guards, his King Power Foxes duly romped to the double at Cowdray Park with triumph in the JaegerLeCoultre Gold Cup. That victory, at the expense of UAE Polo, capped a sensational sporting year for the Srivaddhanaprabhas; father and sons, which also saw their Leicester City football club spring a last quarter bounce to stay put in the elite and very lucrative Premier League. Following their Queen’s cup exploits, the Foxes’ quartet of Facundo Pieres (10), Gonzalo Pieres (10), Hugo Lewis (1) and Top Srivaddhanaprabha (1) entered the foremost 22-goal polo tournament in the world with great expectations as slight favourites from a field of 14 teams. They went on to haul 83 goals from their six matches en route to the final, including the 15 – 9 semi-final demolition of 2013 double champions Zacara. On the other side of the draw, the UAE team of Pablo Macdonough (10), erstwhile 10 goal star Lucas Monteverde (8), Santiago Stirling (4) and 16 year old Jose Ramon Araya (0) matched the Foxes with their free scoring and utterly dominant performances, such as the one way win (14-8) over Apes Hill in the other semi-final match-up. A crowd of 15,000 thronged the legendary Cowdray Park for the July 19th final which was far from a classic, despite the pace and skill on show. In the opening, fast-paced exchanges, UAE, if anything, should have had a handsome lead after squandering five early chances, though they did well to stem the Foxes’ advantage as the game wore on. Pablo McDonough, the leading goal scorer of the British Open, made the first mark on the scoreboard for UAE with an accurate 60 yard penalty. King Power Foxes’ very able Patron Top answered with a field goal and by the end of the first chukka the score was level at 2-2. The second chukka was disappointing for UAE with two missed opportunities at goal and the Pieres brothers combining well to rack up their score to 5-2. Chukka 3 opened with Gonzalito Pieres finding the ball from the throw-in and masterfully tapping it all the way to goal for 6-2. The Foxes then gave away a penalty which McDonough converted for 3-6. Hard marking on both sides saw the half time score creep up to 7-4 in King Power Foxes’ favour. UAE won the ball as chukka 4 commenced. Facundo Pieres impeded their progress but Monteverde claimed it back and raced away to score a super field goal. McDonough was pressured by
28
Facundo as he made an attempt at goal and the ball went over the boards. The resulting roll-in gave Facundo the perfect chance to pass the ball to Top who obliged with his second field goal of the match. The chukka closed at 8-5 to the Foxes. Top was unseated in chukka 5 but was able to walk from the pitch and his place taken by young 1 goal player Kian Hall. As the substitute settled into the match, UAE were able to gain some ground and pulled up to within two goals of their opponents as the chukka finished 10-8. But to the disappointment of many, the anticipated last chukka rally by UAE failed to materialise as the goals simply wouldn’t come for them, try as they might. Instead, Facundo and Hugo Lewis scored a brace apiece to consolidate their lead and close out the match at 14-8, handing King Power Foxes the Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup at only their second attempt. Jaeger-LeCoultre CEO Daniel Riedo and UK Director Zahra KassimLakha were delighted to present the trophy to the victorious King Power Foxes, a specially engraved Reverso watch to the Best Patron Top Srivaddhanaprabha and individual prizes to both teams and the umpires. Facundo Pieres was named Most Valuable Player and the Best Playing Pony award went to Divina played by Pablo McDonough. “Everybody said we had the toughest match today, but with the belief and the pride of the performance we put in, we knew that we could do this,” said Peter McCormack, King Power Foxes’ team manager, who has presided over an unbeaten season. And in a statement to their rivals, he added: “We will regroup and defend our title starting tomorrow.” The Queen’s and Gold Cup teams will need to start doing the same – and some. But with Facundo and Gonzalito in tip top form, and the massive polo assets and resources of the patrons, the King Power parade seems likely to go on a bit. The King Power British slam with youngsters Hugo Lewis and Kian Hall brings closer Vichai’s higher aspiration of entrenching new professionalism in polo where, like football try-outs and contracts, young talents are signed and developed to a professional level with salary and university tuition part of the deal. For now no one is certain how warmly other patrons would key into this initiative but, to be sure, Vichai is one man who never shrinks from instigating or adapting to change. After all, the King of Thailand changed the duty-free mogul’s surname from Raksriaksom to Srivaddhanaprabha. Scoreline: King Power Foxes 14 – 8 UAE (2-2; 5-3; 7-4; 8-5; 10-8; 14-8)*
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
GOLD CUP
THE TEAMS: La Indiana (22) *Michael Bickford (1) James Beim (7) John Paul Clarkin (8) James Harper (6) Salkeld (22) *Nick Clarke (1) Juan Zavaleta (7) Joaquin Pittaluga (7) Luke Tomlinson (7) VPS Healthcare Sifani (22) *Hilali Noordeen (0) Max Charlton (7) Agustin Merlos (9) Malcolm Borwick (6) Talandracas (22) *Edouard Carmignac (0) Polito Pieres (9) Guillermo Caset (9) Zac Hagedoorn (4) HB Polo (20) *Ludovic Pailloncy (1) Cristian Laprida (8) Ignacio Toccalino (8) Sebastien Pailloncy (3) King Power (22) *Tal Srivaddhanaprabha (0) Alejandro Muzzio (7) Marcos Di Paola (8) Guillermo Willington (7) Dubai (22) *Rashid Albwardy (2) Martin Valent (4) Alejo Taranco (6) Adolfo Cambiaso (10) UAE (22) *Jose Ramon Araya (0) Santiago Stirling (4) Lucas Monteverde (8) Pablo McDonough (10) Thai Polo (22) *Harald Link (0) Matias Torres Zavaleta (7) Nic Roldan (8) Tomas Garcia del Rio (7) Apes Hill (22) *Mark Tomlinson (6) Ralph Richardson (1) Eduardo Novillo Astrada (9) Tom Morley (6) King Power Foxes (22) *Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha (1) Hugo Lewis (1) Gonzalito Pieres (10) Facundo Pieres (10) Zacara (22) *Juan Martin Nero (10) Lyndon Lea (1) Rodrigo Andrade (9) Jack Hyde (2) RH Polo (21) *Ben Soleimani (0) Francisco Elizalde (7) Nico Pieres (9) Santiago Von Wernich (5) El Remanso (22) *George Hanbury (3) Charlie Hanbury (4) David Stirling (10) Ollie Cudmore (5)
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
29
POLO PEOPLE
30
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
IN MEMORY
IN MEMORY Will Tankard of Aiken, South Carolina, USA
T
he Fifth Chukker Family joins the polo community to mourn the loss of Will Tankard, an up and coming young polo player, just 31 years of age, who died in a tragic traffic accident travelling between tournaments at the end of last July. Three of his horses died in the accident, as well as his beloved dog Chewy, who was a fixture pitch-side at the tournaments Will played in, whilst also being his constant travelling companion. Will was a founding member of Team USPA, 2002 & 2003 National Interscholastic Champion, 2006 National Intercollegiate Champion, 2012 & 2013 winner of the National Copper Cup, 2013 winner of the National Chairman’s Cup, winner of the 2014 Bryan Morrison USA vs. England and a member of the 2015 team that competed in the finals of the FIP World Championship. In addition to his many achievements on the field, Will took the time off field to set an example to younger players. The young people from Philadelphia’s Work to Ride programme, some of whom have played in the UNICEF Cup during the Access Bank Charity Shield Tournament over the years, have fond memories of time spent with him and the inspiration they gained. Will comes from a polo playing family, one that has a genuine love for their horses, which shows in their horsemanship. Fifth Chukker extends its deepest sympathies to his mother Cissie Snow, who played at Fifth Chukker as a member of the US women’s team – The First Ladies and all his extended family, including his partner Samira Waernlund.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
31
THE SPORT OF KINGS GIVES BACK
CHILDREN’S DAY
May 27th marks an important event in the calender of UNICEF worldwide. A day to celebrate ‘the child’ born into the world. A celebration for life, health & education. Barbara Patricia Zingg
T
his year’s ‘Children’s Day’ was dedicated to the Schools & Orphanages supported by UNICEF in particular in the Province of Kaduna, Nigeria. Privileged children of Kaduna International School and Essence International School were invited to join and unite with non priviledged children on this day. A day of joy and fun to experience and to remember spent at Fifth Chukker Polo & Country Club. UNICEF Nigeria selected a number of children from the ‘Maraban Government Primary School’ with the participation of 60 children and 40 from‘Hawco International School’ to share this experience of a Sports Afternoon - Fun Day. The initiative to undertake the project of planting a ‘UNICEF Charity Umbrella Tree’ in presence of UNICEF Representative of Nigeria & ECOWAS Mrs Jean Gough and Unicef Representative Mr Rabiu Musa and all children was very welcomed also by Title Sponsor Access Bank of the Charity Shield Tournament and co Sponsor MTN. On Tuesday 26th May, Fifth Chukker’s Gardening Team met up with Mr Aminu, Head Master of ‘Maraban Primary School’ to
32
commemorate this special moment of planting the very first tree to offer shade to the children in the years to come in their School Yard. With a manual water pump source installation just a meter away, children were reminded by Fifth Chukker s Head Gardener Lamin Camara from the Gambia, of their responibility now to water the tree and not only watch it grow, but be part of taking care of it and protect it. “This is the greatest thing that could have happened in our School. We are delighted for this inititative and be for ever grateful to cherish this tree”, expressed Head Master Mr Aminu. “The children have been very excited about having their own tree at last – we thank you all so much.” The Equestrian Academy in collaboration with Kaduna International & Essence School worked out a program to entertain the 156 children in five different stations of activities on a rotation basis. A welcome breakfast snack with a “petit pain au chocolat” and yoghurt upon arrival was offered to all prior to the program in the Equestrian Academy Center. BBQ lunch and an afternoon snack fresh fruit salad & cone ice creams were served close to the Polo Fields. Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
33
THE SPORT OF KINGS GIVES BACK
NIYYA Farms with the brand ‘Farm Pride Juices & Yoghurt’ from the state of Kaduna sponsored the event with local fresh organic produce through out the day. At the Equestrian Academy Center children were introduced to get to know the Ponies under the strict watchfull eye of Head Groom Adam Yusuf with his Team of Grooms. Short Pony Rides was a thrill for most – never been on a horseback before. A Children’s Baby Polo Pitch was especially designed and created for the occasion to teach novice players how to play with polo walking mallet sticks. Most entertaining was the interaction of Professional Argentine Umpires Alejandro Pascual and Nicolas to whistle some of the chukkers. Argentine Polo Professional, 7 goaler Larin decided to give it a go and chip in to coach his own Team to victory. To relax and get a rest, a series of puffs, made of local bran bags by the farm staff and filled with hay, were placed under the trees for an equestrian outdoor touch. Furthermore the versatile wooden Playground structure, for more entertainment and fun, never experienced by the little ones, put a constant smile on their faces. With the new Organic Vegetable Garden Nursery just established inside the farm, the children got the opportunity to learn how to sew
34
vegetable seeds and water small plants in presence of Fifth Chukker’s Head Gardener. British-Nigerian Artist Polly Alakija’s Wall Painting House, involved in last year’s UNICEF Art & fundraising project, was turned into an Art Center for the day. The creative Team of Arts Teachers, Ms Oluwatoyin Abdulsalam from Kaduna International School and Mr Emanuel Kogi and collegue Mr Philip Leo Nok from Essence International School ran a creative program in collaboration, to enhance the children to express their impressions of Fifth Chukker in drawings – speaking louder than words. How could there be more fun on a Sports Afternoon, than participate in Team Games created and coached by South African Joe Labuschagne, Sports Professional Rugby & Swimming Coach and current Head of Kaduna International School and his Team. Very popular also was the introduction to the new Sports Facility of the two Tennis Courts in the vicinity, to be instructed to play with the in house Tennis Coach Johnathan. The highlight of the event was with no doubt the ‘Hug a Pony’ cushion exchange. A project launched by Fifth Chukker in support for UNICEF. Children made 4 Children and sponsored by Daviva Fabrics. Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
THE SPORT OF KINGS GIVES BACK
CHILDREN FOR CHLDREN
Understanding the pain of a child who is forced to stand alone in the world, without the support of their parents, gave inspiration for the ‘Hug a Pony’ project. It was important to create a significant item, linked to Fifth Chukker, to comfort an under-privileged child throughout their daily life. Barbara Patricia Zingg
T
he idea of giving a child the chance to make, hold and cherish their very own pony gave birth to a simple cushion design, in the shape of the Fifth Chukker horse logo. They were manufactured with colourful African fabrics. This cushion would be a friend and soul mate to an orphan, forced to sleep alone at night, or a good companion whilst travelling in a car; serving as a soft place to rest their head when tired... a cuddly ‘pony’ to hug. “The perception of a limited collection, with the touch of a unique design would make this project so special, we decided to manufacture them piece by piece; made by children for children” explains Barbara P Zingg, who had the idea and lead role to make them succeed. With the donation of 50 strips of African fabric, manufacturer – DAVIVA, was given a great opportunity to showcase their new collection of African designs to inspire the young ones. Giving back with the collaboration of Fifth Chukker and Kaduna International School, took place with the participation of over 26 privileged children from year 6; approved by South African headmaster Joe Labuschagne and his team of teachers. Essence International School also participated with a class of middle school children, making two cushions each. It was important to teach the children how to make a cushion from scratch. Choosing a pattern and colour that they liked, cutting the shape and pattern of the horse, tracing its shape and cutting the fabric in preparation to sew, was something that most had never done before. The next venture was to use a needle and thread and to learn the correct stitch, which was very exciting for most. Lastly they did the filling of the lining and the finishing of the complete cushion. It has to be said that to our surprise they all did really well, they were engrossed, as suddenly the classroom went totally quiet. “You are all aware that we are making a set of 2 ponies, one to give away and one to keep. Or how about alternatively you give both away, would you be committed to that?”, Barbara and her team of teachers asked playfully. One of the girls called Fatima, who had been at Fifth Chukker before, simply smiled and replied: “Yes I would love that”.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
156 cushions were manufactured and exchanged on the International ‘Children’s Day’ when Kaduna International and Essence met up with the two schools selected by UNICEF to celebrate, unite and enjoy the day. Before going home everyone gathered at the Equestrian Academy Centre where the children of Kaduna International School and Essence International School donated their colourful horses to the children of the two schools which benefit from the support of UNICEF. To date ‘Hug a Pony’ cushions have gone as far as the United States of America, Argentina, South Africa, France, Greece and the United Kingdom to raise funds in support of UNICEF. “HUG A PONY” is a Project idea by Fifth Chukker Polo & Equestrian Manager and Fashion Designer Barbara Patricia Zingg. A cushion collection created specifically in a limited edition series and individually manufactured piece by piece, by hand, as a community activity in privileged Schools of Kaduna to be donated to the children of the UNICEF Schools and orphanages of Kaduna. Fabrics are African, sponsored and donated by DAVIVA. “HUG A PONY” will allow each child to go home with a Pony to own and love.
35
EQUESTRIAN ACADEMY
E questrian A cademy
Launch of the first Kinder Polo Camp in West Africa For the first time in West Africa a dream has come true for all children who love the world of polo and the beautiful horses from Argentina. The Fifth Chukker Equestrian Academy organised a week long summer holiday camp programme for a group of 16 children, ranging in age from 7 to 13; sharing an unforgettable experience and making new friends for life.
T
he idea behind the camp programme is to immerse the children in all things horsey, specifically polo ponies, and to experience and be close to nature, appreciating its harmony. The children worked together as teams in order to develop and foster the concept of a ‘team spirit’, which is crucial to the fast moving sport of polo. The camp is designed for both novice and advanced riders, with an emphasis on riding for polo. Whether the children have grown up in a polo playing family or not the camp becomes the foundation for the next generation of African Patrons. The goal of the Equestrian Academy at Fifth Chukker is to encourage young people and to give them the opportunity to learn more about horsemanship. Learning about tack and how to prepare their own pony for polo to perfection, gives them the confidence needed from the ground up. Taking time to understand the proper techniques of riding for polo as well as the fundamentals of the swing techniques with both a walking mallet as well as on the horse is also part of the camp curriculum. Additionally the ABC’s of the HPA rules of the game are outlined to familiarise the young people with the rules and aid in their understanding of the flow of the game. Barbara P Zingg, the Polo & Equestrian Manager at Fifth Chukker originally launched Kinder Polo as a trademark project in Germany in 2004. The initial success in Germany was followed by International Camps organised at the following clubs before being brought to
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Fifth Chukker: 2004 Bad Bentheim Polo Club – Nordrhein Westfalen, Germany, 2005 Mecklenburger Polo Club Pinnow – Mecklenburg Vorpommern, Berlin, Germany, 2006 Royal Military Academy Sandhurst Polo Club – Surrey, United Kingdom. In addition to the horses and riding, the young people enjoyed traditional camp activities such as football games, tennis lessons with coach Jonathan, swimming pool fun, art projects such as T-Shirt painting and ‘cook your own food & eat it’ under the watchful eye of chef Lamin. Outdoor adventure is experienced with a bush ride, a BBQ campfire night and mountain biking through Kangimi Resort. On the entertainment side, a movie night, complete with popcorn, was enjoyed. Dr Vet Philip Mshelia, the official Fifth Chukker Equine Veterinarian and lecturer of the Department of Veterinary at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, offered a morning class on the basic anatomy of the horse – skeleton and organs, which was of much interest to the children. The camp concluded with a presentation to all parents and friends with a stick and ball session, cantering and a hook and ride off exercise on pitch 1, followed by lunch at the swimming pool, to give a farewell to next year. “I loved every moment of my time at Fifth Chukker and wished it would last forever”, says 10 year old, Aliko Yusuf from Kaduna International School, adding… “Count me in for next year 2016”.
39
POLO PEOPLE
Geoffrey Kent The man who put luxury safari on the map Having recently returned from a horse-back riding, trout fishing adventure with Ted Turner, whom he visits every year at his Montana ranch, Geoffrey Kent, founder of Abercrombie & Kent, the name synonymous with luxury travel, took the time to speak with me in his plush London mews. Yasemen Kaner-White
“
It was nice to be back on a horse again, that’s when I appreciate it, otherwise I don’t really bother, I always played polo for different reasons, but it’s different to how it was before, all of us did it much more for a way of life, we didn’t arrive to play a game and leave, all of us Patrons tried to kill each other on the playing field but we were great friends; that doesn’t exist so much anymore, or at least I’m told”. He went on to tell me that he played at the best time – in the eighties, “when computers didn’t rule, you could take two weeks off and no-one knew, as long as you answered your mail”. He has a point, we do all live in a fast paced ‘twitter’ generation, frantically running from task to task. That said, Kent has embraced social media with open arms, acknowledging its importance in today’s society. His face lights up as he shares with me his latest tweet, a joke courtesy of Ted Turner… ‘shoot low Sheriff, he’s riding a Shetland”. Kent is a Kenyan who grew up in Africa, where he was famously the first to ride a motorbike from Nairobi to Cape Town, then at the tender age of 17, he joined the army, “I didn’t know one person in Sandhurst when I arrived”. The military took him to some far-flung places – Yemen, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait and Cyprus among others. During his service his family lost their farms in Kenya, so they promptly set up Abercrombie & Kent. “The army really helped me organise and set up my business, without the army I could never have started my company, because Abercrombie & Kent is really a logistic company – and I learnt that skill from the army.” A&K is a hybrid, “a crazy Kenyan boy who loved adventure all day long, the disciplined army pulling it together into a logistical package and the adrenaline and elegance comes from all the people I met at polo, which was at the back of my head when I started A&K.” Kent, for a long time, had been observing all the professional hunting expeditions, attended by incredibly wealthy clients. Wanting the same wealthy clients but attracted by photography, he wanted to hunt with a camera
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
not a gun. “I knew they wouldn’t go unless I had fantastic food, on a hunting excursion you eat your prey – guinea foul, buffalo, whatever… you bake the bread, it’s delicious, if you went on a photographic trip back then, you couldn’t do that, all you could do is go to these horrible lodges and have sardines out of a can”. Kent was the first person to bring refrigeration, which again he learned in the army, acquiring fridges from the army auctions, he put them in an army truck and brought them to Africa, “then I built the first luxury camp”. Polo has played a big role is Kent’s life, in his early days he was sponsored by Rolex, in fact they even used him to front an ad campaign, which can be seen in his newly released book; Safari (book review P114). “After I won the US Open and all the other major tournaments in the world, Rolex made me their man”. Nowadays polo is purely for spectating for Kent, after a few accidents, he would rather be on the side-lines, “I quite enjoy it because I can watch everyone vicariously, watch every one else having a hard time, without the risk”. BPD (British Polo Day) collaborates with A&K, suggesting them to their guests as the go-to for their travel needs, whenever they host their worldwide matches. They came together with their shared link of Land Rover, “I’m too busy to go to all the games, I’m always flying, if I spend more than 5 days in the same place I get itchy feet, I wanted to go to the Morocco one, but couldn’t make it”. For a man who flits like a butterfly around the world, you wonder if anywhere feels like home, “everyone always asks that but it is a difficult question, I grew up in Africa in a very special time, population has increased and it has changed, it can never be replaced, everywhere has changed, those were my halcyon days”. After all it was Africa which inspired his journey to begin with, even though he has travelled more than most could ever dream off, his zest for life continues and he appears anything but tired of adventure. “I still love to do real expeditions, I’m planning a trip into Congo, to go and live with the bonobo apes, within
41
POLO PEOPLE
4 million hectares of land and forest. I’ll take some people with me – bonobo are our closest relative, 98.7%”. His passion for wildlife is clear, “I believe the only way to save wildlife now, is through sustainable tourism, to get to the bonobo, reach out to the communities near them and reward them with fees to protect the bonobo.” Kent, who was inducted to the British Travel and Hospitality Industry Hall of Fame in 2012, is one of the founding members of The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), a forum for business leaders in the Travel & Tourism industry. The council “was founded due to, at the time, no-one knowing much about the power of travel and tourism, it was fragmented, so we pulled it all together”. Kent was chairman for a number of years, clearly valuing its ethos, “travel and tourism represents 277 million jobs, 9% of world jobs and 9% of the GDP”. A&K grows exponentially every year, relying on good reputation, word of mouth and of course, social media. “What I wanted to do was to create experiential holidays, taking people out of their comfort zone, to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, to then hand-glide over Rio.” Again, the inspiration came from his army days, it was there that he was exposed to the contrast of wild experiences coupled with luxury, “at the end of a day stuck in a tank, you have a great meal to welcome you, back in the officers mess, with oil paintings and gold plates”. He was the first to offer luxury tent safaris all over east Africa, with a four by four drive, exquisite food and staff, in places no one had ever been before. “I recently thought it’s getting boring, let’s shake things up a bit, so I always do the first trip myself and then I take what I call the danger out of it, so I thought wouldn’t it be really cool to go all around the world to places you can’t get to, then my brain started ticking… I called a board meeting - called out the names of all the countries confirming if they had a direct flight, if they didn’t then I was going to go there”. They devised a list of numerous countries with very few direct flights and difficult to get to, “then I thought, right, let’s get our own plane with lie-flat seats and take off”. So last October, he did just that, “I took off – we did the upper Amazon, catching anacondas, fished for piranha, caught sight of the caimans at night, flew to Easter Island, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Bali, then to the Komodo Islands to see the Komodo dragon, Sri Lanka and then Madagascar to see the lemur”. This trip, which frankly I would bite your hand off for, was completely sold out in 4 weeks, at $108,000 per seat, with around 70 on the waiting list. The plane, naturally, had everything, from top-notch wine and food, bars and even Espresso machines. “The next trip will be even more cool, we always have a team with us, professional divers, chefs, luggage handlers – like an army”. He tells me “this is what people want, but I’ve realised people have the money but not the time, so I came
42
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
POLO PEOPLE
up with ‘Inspiring Expeditions’, lasting 10-12 days”. Kent will be leading the first trips for each of them, to make sure they work, the next trip will involve living with Emperor penguins, going down ice tunnels, climbing mountains and will cost around $135,000 all-in, and when he says all-in, you know that includes the crème de la crème of everything. “It’s once in a lifetime, I can only take 10 people at a time”. Personally I would want to go on the first trip, the one with Kent himself. Upon asking if he has repeat customers who have formed a social network, for I would imagine it would take a certain kind of person to share his passion for travel and be able to afford its luxury at the same time, he gives an example, “the first plane held 48, myself and my wife, so we sold 46, afterwards I held a reunion dinner and 36 of the 46 came”. These expeditions are seeing that his bucket list is being duly ticked off, outstanding is the northern lights, which he has failed to capture twice now, but has a trip planned to remedy that. The obvious question is what about the moon? To which he answers “Before Richard Branson’s venture, I set up A&K space, it was in operation and as I test everything myself first, I got as far as seeing the curve of earth, then came down and thought that was pretty hairy”. He then called one of his guys and asked what are the chances of someone dying if they continue with the programme, to which he was told 100%. So he canned the whole thing. So what does the future hold for A&K? in a nutshell, Kent will continue his Inspiration Expeditions, exploring various themes. There will be one for art “with the best art experts, but it mustn’t be a tour, I’ll find someone with some great art collection buried away in the amazon forest, fly there with a private jet… you know”. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted not to be left out, “we will visit the best golf courses around the world”, and of course there will be one for food and wine lovers, dipping into the best vineyards and eateries, even gambling will get a look in, no doubt with a global luxury angle. For those whose wallet doesn’t stretch to an A&K adventure, live indirectly through Kent; an avid diary keeper, for which his book; Safari was founded upon, or if like him, you are on Instagram, his travels are being documented there too; “Instagram is my new diary”.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
43
POLO PEOPLE
Prince Harry meets partially sighted children at St Bernadette’s Centre for the blind in Maseru on a visit to Lesotho for Sentebale in February 2013. Credit Chris Jackson/Getty Images
44
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
POLO PEOPLE
Prince Harry Determined to make a difference Prince Harry, akin to his royal contemporaries, is known for his altruism. He is Patron of a number of charities, covering a diverse range of beneficiaries but there are a few that stand out and that would appear to be close to his heart. He takes a special interest in charities that focus on the wellbeing of children, such as Sentebale... Yasemen Kaner-White
I
n 2004, Prince Harry visited Lesotho as a guest of Prince Seeiso, the younger brother of King Letsie III. Overwhelmed by the suffering they witnessed in this poverty-stricken country, Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso were compelled to help. In 2006, the Princes founded Sentebale; a charity helping disadvantaged children in Lesotho, South Africa. The word Sentebale means ‘forgetme-not’ in the local language, and was set up in memory of the Princes’ late mothers, to provide healthcare and education to Lesotho’s most vulnerable children. Lesotho is a small country, completely landlocked by South Africa and whilst it only has a population of 2.1 million, it has some very big problems. HIV is the number one cause of death for adolescents in Africa, and Lesotho has the second highest rate of HIV in the world. Sentebale works to not only highlight these problems to an audience who may not have heard of Lesotho, but to collaborate with numerous partners and supporters to provide funding and education to those affected by Lesotho’s HIV/AIDS epidemic and the extreme poverty. Campaigns such as the hugely successful #FeelNoShame, which was launched around World AIDS Day in 2014, have helped put Lesotho, and the challenges faced by children and young people living with HIV, back on the map. Stigma and discrimination, combined with a lack of education on HIV and AIDS continue to be the main reasons children and young people living with HIV fail to access treatment needed to lead healthy and productive lives. Sentebale’s aim is to ensure that more children, not just in Lesotho but also across southern Africa, have the chance to access treatment and the understanding and knowledge to stay on treatment. The charity wants to empower youth to be knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS and make the right decisions so they can stay safe. Sentebale delivers emotional and psychological support
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
to 10-19 year olds living with HIV through week-long camps and monthly follow up clubs. In 2010 the programme was highlighted as a model of international best practice by the United Nations. The programme was quoted as being “effective, having ethical soundness, cost effective, relevant, innovative and sustainable.” Sentebale is currently in the process of conducting feasibility studies and baseline assessments in a number of sub-Saharan countries to determine where their support is most needed. Sentabale is very fortunate to have two prominent and passionate ambassadors – Grammy award winning soul-singer and songwriter Joss Stone and world renowned polo player Nacho Figueras, who are crucial in raising awareness of the charity’s work. They do so by attending the numerous fundraising and awareness raising events throughout the year and also by making visits to see Sentebale’s work. Stone, first supported Sentebale when she performed at a fundraising dinner in Dubai. She travelled to Lesotho in April 2014 and visited Phelisanong Children’s Centre where she met some of the supported children and performed an open-air concert to over 100 children. The shared passion of singing and music made Joss a bit hit with them. There are a number of exciting fundraising events planned for 2016, which will be announced in due course. However, one of the highlights for Sentebale in 2015 was the opening of the Mamohato Children’s Centre in Lesotho, a centre of excellence to support all of the charity’s work with vulnerable children in Lesotho, but specifically to house weeklong residential camps providing essential emotional and psychological support to children coming to terms with living with HIV. The centre will enable Sentebale to scale up work in Lesotho, providing four times as many children living with HIV with life skills and HIV education needed to lead healthy lives, and will mark their expansion into other southern African countries in the very near future.
45
POLO PEOPLE
Children living with HIV take part in a Network Club in Berea. Credit Chris Jackson/Getty Images
Polo was first used as a vehicle to raise money for Sentebale in 2010, when the prince’s brainchild; The Sentebale Polo Cup was born. The aim was to create a high profile event to raise money and at the same time raise awareness of Sentebale’s vital work in Lesotho. Many would argue that the Basotho horsemen are the only indigenous horse culture in SubSaharan Africa. The Basotho are said to be fast and fearless riders and the Basotho pony is renowned as sure-footed, brave and with great powers of endurance. It is fitting therefore that the charity celebrates such a great part of the Basotho culture with polo – a spectacular game of skill and bravery played out on horseback. The first tournament was held in Barbados in 2010 and has since become an annual event which tours the world. In the past 5 years, the event has also been held in the UK; Brazil; Connecticut, USA; and Abu Dhabi. Sentebale has also been the beneficiary of a number of Royal Charity Polo Days in the UK, which are hosted to raise money for Prince Harry’s various charities. Through the generous support of their sponsors, they have been able to create a hugely successful event which attracts a lot of attention across the globe. It is an event where guests enjoy attending, but more importantly raises a large amount of money for the charity. Ambassador Nacho Figueras has played in several charity polo matches to benefit Sentebale, and each year plays in the The Sentebale Polo Cup with the Prince. Nacho visited Lesotho in 2013, as a dedicated father
46
Prince Harry is shown how to use a braille board during a visit to St Bernadette’s School for the Blind. Credit Chris Jackson/Getty Images
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
POLO PEOPLE
Sentebale Ambassador, Joss Stone, on a visit to Lesotho in April 2014. Credit Richard Wadey
Prince Harry plays in the Sentebale Polo Cup Presented by Royal Salute at Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club, Abu Dhabi. 20th November 2014. Credit Chris Jackson/Getty Images
A trained volunteer at a Network Club leads children in a group activity as they learn about living with HIV. Credit Chris Jackson/Getty Images
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Sentebale Ambassador, Nacho Figueras meets children at St Angela’s Pre-School in February 2013. Credit Chris Jackson/Getty Images
of four, showing a real connection to the supported children. Both Prince Harry and his brother The Duke of Cambridge are 1 goal. They play a number of charity polo events in the UK, around 6 to 9, per year. Raising much needed funds for their charities, including Sentebale, Tusk, Wellchild, Child Bereavement and The Royal Marsden to name just a few. Literally millions have been raised over the past few years from their charity polo events. The games have been played at a number of clubs and grounds including Cirencester, Beaufort Polo Club, Coworth Park and Cambridge County Polo Club. A number of sponsors have been involved including Audi, Royal Salute, Tiffany & Co, Gigaset, Piaget, Maserati, St. Regis, Huntsman, Rolex, Garrard/Damas, Jaguar, and Land Rover. It is undoubtable that many more sponsors will cue up to offer support for the Prince’s worthy charitable causes.
47
BUSINESS
THE
Solar Power Way With more than two-thirds of the approximately 800 million people living in the Sub-Saharan region without electricity; availability of electrical power on the African continent is at a low point. Ahmad Almustapha
48
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
BUSINESS
As an example, Nigeria’s current generation of approximately 4,000MW is only enough to satisfy less than 40% of its 180+ million people. Compare this to other African giants, such as South Africa, with almost ten times the power generation and a population of 53 million people. This leaves most people reliant on diesel generators and fossil fuels, which remains an unsustainable means of power generation. This lack of a stable and adequate power source poses one of the greatest hurdles to any African country’s short and long term development goals on all levels. Currently, the annual per capita consumption of electricity in Nigeria is 125kwh. In order to meet the minimum demand, power generation must be upped to 40,000MW. Projections indicate that by 2040, solar power will account for 12% of the total electricity generation capacity of Africa, making up more than half of the continent’s generation capacity expansion. (Africa Energy Outlook: A focus on Energy Prospects in Sub-Saharan Africa, International Energy Agency, 2014). “None of the MDG’s will be achieved without the provision of stable energy supplies”. Marcus Heal. Founder, Pan Africa Solar With a gap forecasted to emerge in its power generation due to failure of nuclear and hydropower in reaching their target, China is being stimulated by three industries to double its solar power goal for 2020. And in 2015 alone, it is adding 18 gigawatts to the existing 33 gigawatts of solar power capacity it had at the end of 2014. The Ethiopian Government, with its strategy aimed at becoming a middle-income nation by 2025, has committed to enhancing access to affordable, renewable energy through its Climate-Resilient Green Economy Strategy. Notably, the Ethiopian government has teamed professionals, academics and members of the key ministries to initiate the installation of two commercial pilot sites of AORA Solar’s Tulip Concept. This concept is a village scale system capable of generating 100kW of electricity and 170kW of heat within 3,000m2 of land. This hybrid facility runs on solar power during the day and switches to biogas during the night or when under overcast skies.
Thus far, Nigeria has established the Renewable Energy Programme under the Ministry of Environment, which has initiated several programmes such as the Naija Light Solar Electrification Programme, providing solar kits for use in the rural areas; The Rural Women Energy Security (RUWES) project, targeted towards rural women usually off grid and with the highest related issues from harmful energy practices. RUWES hopes to impact rural women with skills and promote the adoption of clean cooking stoves, solar driers e.t.c. Also, several state Governments in conjunction with foreign multi-nationals such as Pan Africa Solar are taking the lead towards stable and adequate electricity generation. WHY SOLAR?
The advantages of solar power include: 1. Reliability of supply Because the sun shines for most of the year in northern Nigeria, a reliable supply can be achieved. 2. Environmental Friendliness As a renewable source, solar power unlike fossil fuels comes at no cost to the environment since there is no emission of toxic gases or waste in its generation. 3. Employment Opportunities The roles of installation, maintenance and daily running of solar facilities and equipment, provide ample employment opportunities. 4. Low Maintenance Once installed and fully working, the photovoltaic panels require very little annual maintenance to sustain effective performance. 5. Economic Growth The reliability of production and economic systems on electrical power cannot be over emphasized, as industries and plants will go into full operation, economic growth will definitely follow its lead.
HOW SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAICS WORK
Photovoltaics convert light directly into electricity by the use of photoelectric materials. This photoelectric property, enables the materials to capture photons from light and release electrons. When captured, the free electrons generate an electric current that is used as electricity. “Solar power is the last energy resource that isn’t owned yet – nobody taxes the sun yet.” Bonnie Raitt Singer Ghana has embarked on a project to build Africa’s largest solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant with the 155MW (enough energy to power 200 homes) capacity Nzema project. This project on completion will increase Ghana’s generation capacity by 6% and provide some 200 permanent jobs. This is in line with the Nation’s Renewable Energy Act of 2011. Nigeria’s northern region possesses high Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI), an indicator of a place’s potential for generating electricity through photovoltaics or Concentrated Solar Power ranging annually between 5000 – 6500 Wh/m2.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
49
BUSINESS
Clean Future Pioneers
Driven by boldness, a pioneering spirit and renewable energy, Piccard and Borschberg are flying around the world. Valerie Ziegler
Ready for the big one: Solar Impulse 2 makes a flight over Abu Dhabi
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
51
BUSINESS
A
re ‘love and air’, as they say in German, all you need to survive? Well, yes – but a little sunshine will never go amiss. Just ask Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg, who are currently flying an aircraft powered solely by solar energy around the world. In turning their vision into reality, these 21st-century adventurers are not just proving their doubters wrong, they’re striving to show that with renewable energy, clean technologies and a generous dash of courage, even the apparently impossible is well within our grasp. Following twelve years of intensive preparations, their Solar Impulse 2 aircraft took off from Abu Dhabi on the 9th of March 2015. After intermediate stops in Oman, India, Myanmar, China and Hawaii. After traversing the United States, the plane should cross the Atlantic Ocean and return to Abu Dhabi. Convinced they’ll succeed; these latter-day visionaries should be saluted. Doctor, psychiatrist, researcher and aviator; Bertrand Piccard is the initiator and chairman of the Solar Impulse venture. Piccard comes from a family of pioneers and adventurers; he has researched the strato-sphere, plumbed the ocean’s depths, and is the first person to fly non-stop around the world in a hot-air balloon, alone, aged 57. Engineering graduate André Borschberg holds a master’s degree in management science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. An experienced fighter pilot and a professional fixed-wing aircraft and helicopter pilot – Borschberg is co-founder and CEO of the Solar Impulse project and has been crucial to its success. THE TEAM
Behind the Solar Impulse venture are some 90 personnel, including 30 engineers, 25 technicians and 22 others at its Mission Control Center in Payerne, Switzerland. The project further receives financial and technical support from over one hundred partners and consultants.
Bertrand Piccard (left) and André Borschberg, the two pilots of Solar Impulse
52
Solar Impulse 2 is powered by 17,248 monocrystalline silicon solar cells
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
BUSINESS
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
53
BUSINESS
THE PREPARATIONS
Virtual flights have been conducted under real weather conditions almost every year since 2005. Bertrand and André each spent twenty five hours in the simulator for prototype Solar Impulse HB-SIA in 2008. In February 2012, André completed a seventy two hour stint in the simulator for HB-SIB (Solar Impulse 2), throughout which he was closely monitored by a team of nutritionists and doctors, including specialists from the Hirslanden Private Hospital Group. THE COCKPIT
• Size: 3.8 cubic meters • The pilots each spend five to six days alone in the cockpit. • The multifunctional seat serves as a bunk and a toilet. • A parachute and a life raft are built into the backrest. • With no heating provided, the pilots have to cope with temperatures ranging from +40 to 20 °C. Some insulation is offered by thick padding in the aircraft’s structure. • The cockpit is unpressurised. HEALTH AND SAFETY
• Medical advice is provided by doctors and high altitude medicine specialists before and during the flights. • The pilots are always in contact with the Mission Control Center (MCC) for flight data and support. • The aircraft’s technical condition is constantly transmitted to the MCC via satellite data link. • A highly sensitive man-made machine interface alerts the pilot if the maximum bank angle is exceeded by making the sleeves of his flight suit vibrate. • A monitoring system constantly checks the functioning of the autopilot, and will detect any anomaly or exceeding safe limits. www.solarimpulse.com Swiss Inflight Magazine
AROUND THE WORLD IN 12 LEGS Abu Dhabi UAE 9 March Muscat Oman 9 March Ahmedabad Inida 10 March Varanasi India 18 March Mandalay Myanmar 19 March Chongquing China 30 March Nanjing China 21 April Hawaii USA 13th July Phoenix USA Mid USA New York USA Southern Europe or Northern Africa Total route distance: Total flying time:
35 000 km 500 hours Flight plan
54
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
Creativity founded on savoir-faire Yasemen Kaner-White
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
55
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
56
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
L
ongchamp’s tradition of excellence dates back more than 65 years, to the time when American servicemen in Paris after the Second World War would stand in line to buy its leather-covered pipes, each one a symbol of French craftsmanship and savoir-faire. As Longchamp moved into luggage and city bags, its expertise in selecting the best skins became even more important. Today, the company partners with leading tanneries in Europe and beyond to source the quality and variety of leathers it requires – skins that are smooth or finely grained, firm or supple to the touch, fine natural materials that will acquire still more beauty and personality over time. Crafted by the skilled hands of Longchamp artisans into new, contemporary designs every season, these leathers give Longchamp bags their unique character, making them treasured companions year after year.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
57
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
Sophie Delafontaine - Creative Director
French luxury House Longchamp was founded in Paris in 1948 by Jean Cassegrain, and is still owned and run by the Cassegrain family today. Longchamp’s luggage, handbags and accessories have a worldwide reputation for craftsmanship and quality, which now extends to shoes a nd ready-to-wear collections. Longchamp is an international brand that has maintained momentum and energy across the decades. It epitomises French flair, fresh and inspiring creativity, as well as sharing the active lives of women and men across the world who enjoy a touch of luxury every day. Longchamp is today headed by the second and third generations. Philippe Cassegrain is the company President, while his wife Michèle Cassegrain oversees the network of Longchamp stores in Europe. His son Jean Cassegrain is CEO and his daughter Sophie Delafontaine Creative Director. Their brother, Olivier Cassegrain, who is based in New York, oversees the American stores.
58
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
EQUESTRIAN ENTHUSIASTS WERE DELIGHTED WHEN IN 2014 LONGCHAMP CELEBRATED THE YEAR OF THE HORSE
In Chinese astrology, 2014 was the year of the Horse. Free, creative and emancipated, it always keeps forging ahead. Under the impulse of this spirited animal, Longchamp could not fail to mark the event and so created a limited-edition bag to celebrate the year. Adopting two key Longchamp icons, the bag was firstly designed along the lines of the must-have Le Pliage® bag and secondly decorated with the Longchamp Horse, which has been the house’s emblem since it was founded. In a festive spirit, it comes in red or black canvas adorned with the Horse in Platinum-toned patent cowhide. “Longchamp celebrates the year of the Horse” was the special inscription that can be discovered inside the bag on a leather label that also features the Chinese sign of the Horse. A not-to-be-missed collectors’ item to ensured that 2014 got off to a galloping start!
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
59
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
Alexa Chung
Alexa Chung, the international it-girl and fashion icon, is the face of Longchamp’s 2015 advertising campaigns, following in the footsteps of Kate Moss in 2006 and more recently Coco Rocha. “Longchamp represents Optimistic Luxury. We want to incorporate luxury into the everyday life of an active, dynamic and cosmopolitan woman – a woman who loves fashion without following it slavishly. Alexa Chung totally represents this vision. Intelligent, sparkling and sophisticated, she perfectly embodies the movement and energy that are at the heart of Longchamp,” Marie-Sabine Leclercq reminds us.
60
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
DAVID TIMEHIN The man who lets his clothes speak for him… Yasemen Kaner-White
“
What’s your story”, were the instant words that left David’s mouth when he met me, little did he know, it was his story that I would be writing months later. I first met David in February this year, in the prestigious polo club; Val de Vie in South Africa. The second time was when he flew in from his home town of Lagos to Fifth Chukker, in May, for a fashion shoot comprising of his latest works. “It was chosen for me, my father said that’s what you are going to do, and I hated the idea, I wanted to be a pilot, an architect”. But that was not his destiny, like his dad John Olu-Timehin, who had set up his own business; Olu-Timehin & Sons Tailoring Services and who was a bespoke tailor – pioneering fashion trends in Nigeria – he was to follow the same professional path. Although perhaps his original plan involved a plane as opposed to pinking shears, his interest was always apparent, oftentimes he was to be found studying his father in his studio space, keeping a watchful eye over his craftsmanship. David came to Nigeria when he was just 2 years old and stayed there until he was 17. His father made clothes for anyone but mainly for high profile clients. At the time, the military was in power, so he made suits and French suits for the likes of the high-powered generals. “He did great work, sometimes I can see his work in mine, as his own particular style was tailoring, that definitely influenced my cut”. However, although classically trained and inspired by his father’s traditional cut, David’s take is far more contemporary.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
“We all had to dress up for church and all that, in suits, I felt I was stifled, I wanted to break away from it and design wonderful elegant pieces.” To be able to do that, he needed to be exposed to outside influences. “At the time I was planning my escape from Lagos, I had packed my bag, I was going to university, I thought to myself – if this is what I’m going to do I’m going to do it properly”. So Manchester born David upped sticks and headed to England, a place which he believes to be the home of fashion. Working part-time jobs, he put himself through A’ Levels, and then interviewed for the likes of St Martins but decided on Kingston University; School of Fashion Design, which he later graduated from with a BA (Hons). “Kingston had more structure, me being by myself, I had to go to school and work but I needed structure,” he told me. “Kingston moulded me into a contemporary designer”. Throughout the course he worked directly with industry, “one of the first things we were told was, this isn’t just education, this is the first day of your job.” The 9 to 5 approach installed the work ethic needed to succeed. “They give you more than enough to do, you were either working or thinking what you are going to do and that is
63
POLO PEOPLE
64
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
what you need for the fashion industry.” Coming from a lone parent background, growing up with a father he admits was not the most complimentary, meant his confidence was rather lacking. “When I was in Kingston, for my interview, just being told I had potential meant a lot to me”. His father’s tough approach only motivated him more, “I was going to do it and by himself”. It was via a BBC 2 documentary that he discovered he was dyslexic, putting much into perspective; no-one had told him he had a learning disorder, which he now sees as a blessing “once I’m keyed into what I’m doing, it’s all focus”. His final year collection at Kingston University was entirely sponsored by Dewhirst Group PLC, after a menswear tailoring project where he came top of the class. Upon graduating, he was offered three jobs based solely on the collections he had produced whilst at University, but it was Alberta Ferretti, in San Giovanni in Marignano, Italy, who he went with, taking the position of womens wear design assistant and who inevitably allowed him the freedom of expression he sought. David followed on from Alberta Ferretti, building his experience as a freelance fashion designer with collections for a number of other well known European designers, of which the Irish fashion house, Louise Kennedy, was one of the most prolific, and well known for her signature tailored collections in pure wool, Irish linens, silks and textured jerseys and her patronage by the Irish President; Mary Robinson. From England, he went to the US and stayed there 12 years. Sparked by a friend’s invitation to San Francisco. “San Francisco is freedom, it allows you to be whatever you want to be.” After a divorce and turns in the market, he decided to make a fresh start and come ‘home’ to Nigeria. For in Nigerian custom, it is not your birthplace
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
65
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
66
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
ADVENTURES IN LUXURY
indicating ‘home’, rather where your father is from. For the first time, David is working with local bright, wax coated Ankara fabrics from Da Viva, as seen in the fashion shoot. “Before it was the western fabrics, cut and style”. In keeping with local paradigms, he has had to tailor his style, by not having such a revealing cut. “I think a woman is empowered by what she wears and should not be judged, if she has the confidence to wear something revealing, why not, but I have had to learn to tone it down”. David acknowledges his style is going through a transition, blaming it on being older, he sees he is leaning towards a more elegant side, in contrast to previous “high drama”. He is focused on producing a line that will sell, instead of solely ‘making a name’, so he grabs good opportunities whenever possible to show his wares off. “The offer of doing something with Fifth Chukker is a great opportunity, the network available and high-end exposure gives me more leverage”. Self-described as shy, he prefers to let his clothes speak for themselves, or rather, for him. “I try to stay away from all the paparazzi; I don’t want attention, my end game is to be happy and content and be appreciated for what I do.” When it comes to influence, the obvious question is would it be Africa? but he can’t pinpoint, instead offering “nature, architecture, anything and everything, from the way fabric moves, there is always an interpretation of something, you never know exactly what it is but it will come out, for example, a hem of a dress, using a domestic over-locker creating the effect of lace simulating autumn leaves. I am inspired by all my favourite designers such as Alexander McQueen, Yohji Yamamoto, Calvin Klein, Alberta Ferretti, Chanel, Galliano”. Having been through some life changing experiences he feels that cyclical moods influence his work, in fact he created his label ICAN IAM™ to lift his own spirits. “At the same time Obama was coming into office, an inspiration for Africa, I told myself I can do this”. His aim is to empower everyone not just Africans but everyone throughout the world, “ultimately I would like that to be the foundation, my way of giving back. I am proud to be Nigerian, it took a while to be vocal about it, as the press on Nigeria hasn’t always been good”. Change is on the agenda in Nigeria, positive change, the inauguration of Buhari, encourages his patriotism. “Africa is featuring more and more on the fashion map”. He wants his next step to be part of the Nigerian fashion week, with his ultimate goal being London fashion week, the birthplace of his training, “I want to be recognised there, representing Nigeria.” David caters for both women and men, from sportswear to evening wear. ICAN IAM™ is an urban contemporary self-empowerment label, aimed at men and women, whilst DAVID TIMEHIN™, namely crafted from pure silk mixes, satin back crepe and delicately printed silk chiffon, which he launched in 1997, is female focused – to empower women. Both lines will be shown at the upcoming fashion show, taking place at Fifth Chukker. “The message I want to give at the show is craftsmanship, my story will be told through my life and clothes”.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
67
“THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE BOYZ and the men is in their toys”
sporty – elegant, exclusive and powerful: These three attributes perfectly describe the BRABUS refinement programme, offering a wide range of options.
...style and customise
your BRABUS high performance automobiles to your personal demands. Adeyanju Adelakun, Chief Executive Officer, Raumplus Nigeria Limited, 3A Karimu Kotun Street Victoria Island. Lagos. 01-2702971, 08029048000 Akintoye Ojomu, Commercial Director 08069465359 toye@raumplus.com
ART IN FOCUS
gauchos
& horses
passion in art
Esteban Diaz Mathe
Argentine Painter, Esteban Diaz Mathe was born in 1981. He has a degree in Psychology and was originally a professional in Corporate Human Resources. Barbara Patricia Zingg
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
71
ART IN FOCUS
E
xpressing his enormous passion for Art, Esteban started painting and drawing for the very first time six years ago, when he started his second career in Architecture. Remembering his mentor’s expression, “dream your life and build your dream” Esteban decided at the time to apply his knowledge and new found skills to his childhood passion; the Argentine Gauchos and their horses and expressing it in Art. A self-taught artist, Esteban devoted the first two years to making commissioned replicas of the great masters of painting such as Michelangelo, Sorolla, Rembrandt and Da Vinci; having a good grasp of oil painting, pen and charcoal. Later, he began to create his own work, devoting himself entirely to painting. Tirelessly he now works to study and honour the life of the Gauchos; the hardy men of the great land of the Argentine Pampa as well as honour, with striking realism, the elegance of Argentinian horses. Diaz Mathe’s work embraces cultural issues, with an abundance of contemporary themes captured using ancient techniques, typical of the ones used by the great Masters of realism. He struggles to extol all the rustic and authentic elements of Argentine culture. Focusing on the lifestyle of Estancias, he has spent over three years visiting more than 30 different farms throughout 10 provinces of Argentina. Through gathering information, investigating, and shearing; his daily work centered around being with rural people, Diaz Mathe seeks to capture through his paintings the very essence of the national being. Recently published; ‘Ser Argentino’, is a book of pencil drawings. ‘Being Argentinian, A Tribute To Our Gauchos’ reflects 143 fine artworks that accurately describes the life of the Gauchos, organised in 7 chapters: Portraits, Ranch Work, Rural Installations, On Horseback, Carriages, District Festivities and Livestock: Pintura
La Chola
72
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
POLO PEOPLE
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
73
Breakaway
Breakaway
ART IN FOCUS
Herrador
Seaside Trio
Tuze Parejo
PORTRAITS
“I met a great number of different weather-beaten faces during my journeys throughout our great Argentina. All of them make the same plain, firm, authentic, and rural image concealed behind their countenance. It is only their features and clothes that change depending on each particular region of the country. Their intact essence repeats itself recurrently under a same face… the face of the Argentinean being.” RANCH WORK
“The gaucho, who is an expert worker is certainly worthy of admiration. More than once, I could contemplate his performance and decisiveness. He is a model of discipline, experience, and awareness of the facts. It is in not only the climatic changes or the forces of nature which he faces daily, but also the animals he works with that provide this man his knowledge and skills.” Que Pingazo
RURAL INSTALLATIONS
“I can attest to the beauty of every estancia in their installations. In each area of our country, I have found them either sharing the same distinctive features or having distinct ones, but always defined by their own natural environments. Old or modern, they are always forged out of work as well as necessity, worn out by the effect of time and usage, built with rustic and noble materials, shaped according to their function.” ON HORSEBACK
“The type of horse and the way of saddling may change throughout the length and width of the country, but what will never change is that brother-companion relationship between the horse and his owne; the Wild to the Left Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
75
ART IN FOCUS
La Proeza
El Naipe II
76
Polo 2
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
ART IN FOCUS
gaucho. From dawn to dusk, on a par, I myself have been a witness to that bond. Always together, I saw them passing in silence through the country”. CARRIAGES
“Oh, my childhood memories stem from my long summers at the estancia! I can still see that carter, his horses, and his wagon... long before that, it had been our dear soil that observed how by force of horse, ox and cart, it became the foundation of our homeland”. DISTRICT FESTIVITY
“No matter the district I visited, it was always dressed in festive attires, in a relaxing atmosphere with friends and family. Everybody smiling and honoring our homeland and the life God has given us. There were Sundays full of pranks, of eloquence, of good mood, of dances, of people playing music, of rodeos… all around was simple liveliness”! LIVESTOCK
“Walking throughout our country, we are certain to find a variety of cattle in great numbers. Depending on the area, climate, and the conditions the soil may provide, breeds and herds of different coat colour, aspect, and docility are to be seen in hills, marshlands, prairies... green or dry in their extension.” For Esteban a new chapter begins, he is nowadays invited to the most important Argentinian polo pony breeder’s Estancias as well as to the Argentine Polo Open Championships of Palermo in Buenos Aires. Beyond these borders the doors have also opened to Brazil and Chile. His mission is to achieve the elegance of polo horses in his artworks. He expresses the daily rural activities of polo pony breeders in a romantic fashion. Diaz Mathe was commissioned to paint the last and next Argentine Polo Pony Breeders Association Yearbook cover. The award of the new Argentine Polo Breeder’s Cup is a painting of the best playing pony, especially made for his breeder. Anyone who visits ‘The Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame’ will enjoy Diaz Mathe’s first polo artwork ‘La Medalla’ donated by him.
Chocolate en alta
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
You can become acquainted with his work through www.diazmathe.com or visit his studio located in the heart of Buenos Aires, a few streets from Palermo’s polo field.
77
ART IN FOCUS
EL ADIOS
78
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
ADVENTURES IN SPORT
Cat Kabira
Š
THE HEART OF
yoga Yoga has taken the fitness world by storm, but the practice is so much more than just being bendy. Emma Thomson gives an overview.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
79
ADVENTURES IN SPORT
WHAT IS YOGA?
You are yoga. The word derives from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning among many other things – ‘union’ and through the practice of certain philosophies we can unite our mind, body and breath to look at life evenly. The aim is to master the thoughts in your head, rather than a headstand – and you certainly don’t need the latest leggings, or even a mat to practice. It’s as much a spiritual journey, as it is a great workout. ITS ORIGINS
Yoga is old. While its origins are unknown, it’s generally accepted the practice came out of India thanks to the discovery of 5,000 year old stone seals depicting yoga poses in the Indus Valley. Furthermore, Rishis, early Indian prophets, developed the first yogic teachings – the Vedas. After the Vedas came the Upanishads scriptures, the most famous of which is the Bhagavad-Gita (mentioned in the book Eat, Pray, Love). During the medieval period, Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras outlined the classical practice of yoga such as meditation, but it wasn’t until the 1800’s that the Sritattvanidhi emerged, the first yoga text to describe some of the poses we know today. VARIOUS PRACTICES AVAILABLE
My yoga teacher described it perfectly: “Yoga’s history and philosophy is like a twisted old banyan tree, whose hundreds of branches each support different teachers and traditions”. Over time the practice has morphed into numerous different disciplines, from Ashtanga and Bikram to Iyengar and Yin – but all of them originated from Hatha yoga. Some of the most famous today are Bikram hot yoga with a series of 26 postures performed in 40°C heat; Iyengar developed by yoga master BKS Iyengar (see Leading specialists below) where poses are held for longer with the aid of props such as cushions, bolsters and straps; and Vinyasa, a powerful, fast-flowing sequence designed to generate heat and clear out stale energy. LEADING SPECIALISTS
Modern yoga gurus are undoubtedly BKS Iyengar (www.bksiyengar.com) and Amrit Desai (www.amrityoga.org) who came from India and introduced yoga to America. Those that studied under them gave the practice their own unique twist, such as Baron Baptiste, founder of Baptiste Yoga (www.baptisteyoga.com), and the last decade or so has seen numerous Masters developing their own distinctive style: from Ana Forrest of Forrest Yoga (www.forrestyoga.com) – an intense physical practice, to those connecting movement to an awareness of the subtle energetics of the body such as Cat Kabira (www.catkabira.com). There has also been a huge rise in celebrity yoga teachers such as Rachel Brathen – aka Yoga Girl – who has an Instagram following of 1.6 million, and Tiffany Cruikshank the in-house yoga teacher for Nike sportswear. THE SPIRITUALITY CONNECTED WITH IT
Yoga isn’t just exercise. The poses are a preparation for meditation. The untrained mind constantly bounces from past to future in a state of anxiety or regret. Meditation teaches us to be present. As the Buddha said: “rule your mind, or it will rule you.” Practicing yoga creates a powerful sense of inner tranquility that stays with you throughout the day (or at least a large portion of it), so that when problems do arise you can deal with them calmly, you’re not constantly in a state of reaction. Listening to your breath, and paying attention to how your muscles feel in the poses connects you to your true emotions and developing a regular practice is a great way of carving out much needed me time.
Cat Kabira
©
80
ADVENTURES IN SPORT
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
81
ADVENTURES IN SPORT
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why has it become so popular? Modern life is fast paced and full of stress. Most of us are desk bound and spend hours hunched over a computer for work, then come break time we are checking news bulletins, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Our minds lack focus, concentration or contentment; our bodies are stiff and full of aches. Yoga teaches us to focus and the flowing movements have proven to lower blood pressure, improve immune function and relieve anxiety. There’s a common misperception that yoga is only for the young, slim and athletic, but the poses can be adapted to suit all levels of flexibility and acts as a holistic form of medicine that has improved symptoms in people suffering from arthritis, cancer, schizophrenia, body dysmorphic disorder, diabetes, and heart disease. So the next time you have a headache try spending a few minutes in a simple legs-up-the-wall pose. POSES
Yoga poses, or asanas are the most recognised part of the practice. They exercise not only muscles, but nerves and glands too and are designed to open hips and hamstrings, shoulders and spines, as well as unblock trapped energies and emotions, build vitality and foster mental equilibrium. From grounding poses such as downward dog and warrior one and two, to more advanced poses designed to test balance and develop core strength such as tree, crow, and bird of paradise. These are joined together in sequences, such as sun salutations to build tapas (heat), that burn out what is no longer needed in our bodies and lives. Here is an explanation of some of yoga’s foundational poses:
Cat Kabira
©
82
Temple
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
83
ADVENTURES IN SPORT
Cat Kabira
©
Downward dog
This delicious pose is the bread-and-butter of a yoga routine, you’ll keep coming back to it again and again. It has numerous benefits including lengthening the whole spine, stretching hamstrings and calf muscles and banishing bingo wings! Come into a table-top position with shoulders positioned above wrists, and hips above bent knees. Hands should be shoulder-width apart; fingers spread wide, knuckles pressed down. Pressing down into the floor, lift hips into the air to create a triangle shape, pressing heels towards the ground. Do note: the aim here is not to place the heels flat on the ground, but to stretch the spine. If the ribs are sticking out, pull them in; and if your shoulders have crept up towards your ears, shrug them back down. Plank
This core strengthener crops up in sun salutation routines. It’s great for toning arm muscles, as well as working the chest and legs. Hands should be placed under the shoulders, legs together, knees lifted off the floor and heels reaching towards the back of the room. Pull the belly in and squeeze the arms together, keeping your shoulders down the back. Weight should be evenly balanced between balls of the feet and hands. Modification: If you have weak wrists, place your knees on the floor. Tree
This grounding pose is excellent for improving balance. Start by standing with your weight equally distributed across all four corners of the feet. Pick a fixed point ahead of you (this is key)! and with or without using your hand, place your foot to the inside of the upper thigh. Pull your belly in, lengthen the spine upwards and bring your hands into a prayer position in front of your heart. Try and hold it for a minute.
84
Modification: If you find you keep falling over, bring the foot to rest on the shin or calf muscle instead. Crow
A fun, balancing pose that draws on core strength. From a standing position, bend forward and place your hands on the mat, shoulderwidth apart. Lift your heels off the ground and shuffle the legs as close to the armpits as possible, looking forward, pull your belly in, and slowly lean forward, pressing the knees into your upper arms until your feet lift off the floor. Modification: If the above is too difficult, keep feet on the floor and just try lifting each foot individually. Place a pillow in front of your head in case you topple forward. THE FUTURE OF YOGA
Yoga is infinitely creative and the last few years have seen an explosion of new varieties. Some are a logical progression: from mother-and-baby yoga to Yogance (combining yoga asanas into dance sequences); some are inventive such as paddleboard yoga and aerial/anti-gravity yoga where you are suspended in hammocks; some are just good fun: such as karaoke yoga and ‘Doga’, which encourages you to incorporate your canine friends into your practice; and some are just down-right loony, such as Tantrum Yoga (screaming to let out the stress) and, in New York, nude yoga for those happy to bare soul and body. There’s no judgment! Whatever keeps you inspired and connected to the ability to feel the truth in your body is what being a yogi is all about. • International Yoga Day is held annually 21 June (www.idayofyoga.org)
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
ADVENTURES IN SPORT
Mind, Body & Soul A MONTENEGRIN YOGA RETREAT Quick & easy tips to improve your emotional well being & physical health Yasemen Kaner-White
R
ecently I was lucky enough to spend an entire day at a retreat concentrating on my body with yoga, my soul with mindful meditation and my waistline with heavenly healthy cuisine – a luxury. But it would be a poor excuse to say I could only do this in the luscious surroundings of luxury Lustica Bay; Montenegro (though I must put it out there – I LOVE Montenegro). Whilst certainly helping my engagement and determination, surely I should be able to ‘indulge’ and look after myself, wherever I may be, and the same goes for you...
The day was lead by the wonderfully upbeat yet serene Jules Sung, a holistic health coach and Ashtanga yoga teacher. blossomwithbrilliance.com Jules’s 6 keys to gut health: 1 2 3 4 5 6
Probiotics Prebiotics Gluten-free foods Fermented foods Healthy good fat Low carb foods
Low sugar + low carb + high fiber + high fat = healthy microbiome. First step towards healthy microbiome is to include fermented foods like kimchee, sauerkraut or kefir drinks in your daily diet.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
85
ADVENTURES IN SPORT
Here’s a sneaky peek into what we ate... Breakfast: • Chia pudding with fruits, nuts and seeds • Buckwheat pancakes with carob butter spread Lunch: • Nutrient Rich Salad • Sweet potato-pepper soup • Buddha bowl: macrobiotic style, red rice with loads of raw veggie sticks & nori sheets on top • garlic mushrooms • kimchee • pink chocolate pudding (beetroot cacao) Dinner: • Miso soup • Flax flat bread • baba ghanoush • hummus spread • chard with tofu • mango chutney • kimchee • Coconut mung cream If I had to single out a dish out, I would point to the pink chocolate pudding...
Even Pret has superfood bowls with Quinoa as a base, so if you’re grabbing something on the go, nowadays it’s simple. For breakfast my fav is to mash up a banana, mix with an egg and use that ‘batter’ to make a scrumptious pancake, use 2 eggs for more protein. For lunch/dinner I try to make huge salads, sometimes it gets to the point where I’m too tired to crunch anymore and therefore fill up quickly! cans of beans are great for fullerfor-longer-feeling protein rich foods. As we know, everything starts in the mind, instead of telling myself I deserve a treat after a long day of work and grabbing a packet of triple choc cookies (yum), I try to make a quick healthy snack instead. Inspired by Cyprus, I make Pekmez – equal quantities of carob molasses mixed with tahini, (you will never look at a pot of Nutella again) – yummy and high in iron, spread on your fav gluten-free bread. If like me sometimes you feel too reliant on caffeine to keep you going, switch to lukewarm water with the juice of 1 whole lemon, it really gets you going whilst cleansing your system; drink through a straw to protect those teeth! what I learnt is that meditation doesn’t have to be crossed legged on a floor being silent or even repeating a mantra ad nauseum (which I confess I found frustratingly hard). It’s all about emptying the mind to reach a peaceful state. Which could be anything, for me it’s zoning out on the cross trainer at the gym, listening to Enya whilst laying on my bed or sitting on a bench staring at the river. As William Henry Davies astutely said in his poem Leisure; a comment on the frantic modern living bruising the human spirit – “A poor life this if, full of care, We have no time to stand and stare”. So remember if only for a few minutes a day, take some time out, it will do you the world of good... www.lusticabay.com
Pink Chocolate Mousse
8-10 servings Ingredients: 2 medium size beetroots 120g cacao powder 3 tbsp melted cacao butter 2 tbsp honey 1/2 cup walnuts 1/2 cup sunflower seeds Pinch of cinnamon Couple drops of vanilla extract 1/3 cup rice milk (substitute: water) Directions: 1P eel and chop beetroots, setting aside a few grated pieces for garnishing later. 2 Toss into a blender: chopped beetroots, cacao powder, cacao butter, honey, walnuts, sunflower seeds, cinnamon, vanilla extract and rice milk. Blend until a creamy consistency. Add the rice milk slowly according to smoothness of your liking. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) in the 2015 Australian Grand Prix in Albert Park, Melbourne. Photo: Grand Prix Photo 3 Serve.
86
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Milan City of Expo 2015 Jan Fuscoe
Duomo
M
ilan is a city renowned for its art, culture and high fashion. The home of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper and Michelangelo’s Rondanini Pietà, it also boasts the world-famous Teatro La Scala, the ‘home of opera’. The Duomo is the largest and most complex Gothic building in Italy, as well as Italo Rota’s ground-breaking Museo del Novecento, set in a converted palazzo, where more than 400 20th-century masterpieces can be found, from Fontana to Picasso. It is also Italy’s centre of fashion and design, with the prestigious Milan Fashion Week as important as that of Paris and London. Stylish Milan is Italy’s biggest industrial centre, with a bustling manufacturing and financial sector, boasting an avant-garde exhibition centre for world-class exhibitions. Finally, it’s an important city of food: local trattorias serve steaming bowls of risotto alla milanese (with saffron) and tortelli di zucca (pumpkin–stuffed pasta), followed by ossobuco alla milanese (braised veal shanks) or costoletta alla milanese (breaded and fried veal chop), and a cheeseboard comprising superb local cheeses of Taleggio, Gorgonzola, Stracchino, Grano Padano or Mascarpone. Then there are the heavy-weight wines: Barolo, Barbaresco and Chianti, as well as the Champagne quality Franciacorta, so perhaps it isn’t surprising that in 2015, Milan is hosting Expo, with ‘Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life’ as its theme. It will be the biggest event on nutrition in the world, with 145 participating countries and pavillions. HISTORY OF THE EXPO
The first Expo, or world fair, was held in Crystal Palace in London in 1851, where the combine harvester was first debuted. The first lift was presented in 1853, sewing machines in 1855, the telephone in 1876 and the first assembly line for automobiles in 1915. The aim of these world fairs was to allow people to explore a world beyond their daily experience, by introducing them to new inventions, technologies and scientific discoveries and, from a humanistic perspective, to other cultures. Over the years, these Expos have continued to expand and develop, but always concentrated on showcasing innovation and ideals, with ever more challenging aims. Shanghai’s 2010 Expo was dedicated to ‘Better City, Better Life’; the next Expo, to be held in Dubai in 2020 will be ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’. With such lofty ideals, the task becomes ever more challenging. EXPO MILANO 2015
Milan first set out to improve the Expo experience by making the visitor the central focus of the experience, by breaking the whole into thematic ‘Clusters’; the decision was made to group together countries that shared a similar theme of agriculture and food (rice, cocoa, coffee, fruit and vegetable, spices, cereal and tubers) or environmental factors (sea and island, Bio-Mediterranean, arid zones). The Clusters have been designed to stimulate the visitor and inform them about the nature of the environments experienced, and the challenges faced by the geographical area or food growing that takes place there. Thus visitors to the Rice Cluster will enter a landscape that echoes images of never ending rice
Cimitero Monumentale
FEATURE DESTINATION
A FEW EXPO FACTS TO CHEW ON:
Future Food District
• 1 million square metres: the site will be equivalent in size to the 8th largest city in Italy • 250,000: the number of expected visitors per day •e 800 million: the operating costs • 15,000: the number of volunteers over six months Morocco
fields that exist in reality in the participant countries of Sierra Leone, Bangladesh, Laos and Myanmar, while in the Islands, Sea and Food Cluster, sounds of rushing water and the crunch of gravel help to create a coastal atmosphere. World of Spices features the scents and colours inspired by the countries of Afghanistan, Tanzania and Vanuatu, and Arid Zones feature desert sandstorm-like conditions, and focus on the challenge of water scarcity and climate change. The location of the Expo is a few kilometres from the city centre, giving the designers and architects a neutral blueprint on which to develop eco-compatible solutions, rational use of energy and high-tech systems.
Spice Cluster
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
89
FEATURE DESTINATION
ARCHITECTS
One of the greatest aspects of the Expo is the architectural diversity that has been created by the participants themselves. Some of the world’s finest architects have been brought in to create 140 individualistic pavilions to represent the 60 countries. Their brief was to create a microcosm of the country’s character, environment, history and agricultural processes. The way in which each country has chosen to approach this is just one of the more fascinating aspects of the Expo. Visitors can expect to see recreations of entire eco-systems, such as forests of cocoa plants, complete with creeks and tree lined canals, as well as greenhouses, thematic exhibitions, educational zones and playing areas for children, workshops, service areas where agricultural processes such as coffee roasting, can be observed, and, a big draw for all visitors; the kitchens, where famous, and not-yet-famous chefs, create the flavours of neighbouring and distant countries for sampling. The designers for the French Pavillion, for instance XTU architects and Simonin Enterprises, drew inspiration from France’s long standing tradition of farmer’s markets, with the pavillion designed to resemble an inverted market place. Made entirely from indigenous French wood, and using concealed joinery techniques, it features a dramatic undulating ceiling that appears to have been made from a single piece of wood weaving its way through the massive 3,600 square metre space. The lattice frame has hops growing over it and foodstuffs hanging from it. As with all the pavillions, the design is for easy disassembly at the end of the Expo; the French Pavillion will be completely dismantled and reassembled in France. The beehive-inspired UK Pavillion, with its honeycomb design, is set in a wildflower meadow. The idea was conceived by Wolfgang Buttress and fabricated by Stage One Ltd, in collaboration with engineers Simmonds Studio and architectural practice
New Year´s Eve Party on Copacabana Beach
90
Columbia
Brazil
Palestine Arid Zone
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
FEATURE DESTINATION
BDP. The designers teamed up with bee expert Dr. Martin Bencsik, who is undertaking cutting-edge research into the behaviour of honey bee colonies. Visitors ‘follow the dance of a bee’ through a series of different landscapes, beginning in an orchard area that leads to an entrance featuring displays with information about the life-cycle of bees and their role in pollinating food crops. Then there are the companies that join such a vast market to showcase their wares: there’s Franciacorta, the DOCG status sparkling wine from the Province of Brescia. The Slow Food pavilion, designed by Herzog & De Meuron, consists of three modular buildings that are reminiscent of rural Lombard farmsteads, all sited within an area of 3,500 square metres. As well as architects, artists and musicians have been invited to support the projects. Brazilian photographer Sebastião Salgado captured the cultivation of coffee in his huge images that can be found in the coffee zone. The German Pavillion will be featuring regular recitals and performances by new, as well as established, musicians every day. AIMS AND IDEALS
Each country will be looking at our relationship with food, through history and culture, exploring subjects such as livestock breeding, and methods of food production, to consumption. A higher ideal is to explore the fight against food inequality, and to look at the causes of malnutrition that affect over a billion people around the world, while conversely considering wealthier countries that now suffer critically high number of diseases relating to poor food and overeating, such as diabetes and obesity. There will be conferences and lectures on subjects as diverse as ‘Food Safety on a Global Scale: What are the Emerging Risks?’ and ‘Innovative and Sustainable Food Packaging Technologies’ to ‘Sensory analysis for better quality of virgin olive oil’ and ‘Sugar in Italy: good for the country, good for mankind. A valuable ingredient between reality and myths’. The Expo aims to be a global laboratory responding to the challenge of nurturing the planet while continuing to feed an ever growing population. Visitors will be able to participate in and then observe the creation of new ideas and solutions that will raise questions, hopefully provide some answers, and at the very least offer a tour though the traditions and foods of the people of the world. 20 million visitors were expected, 2.7 came in the first month and 15 million tickets were sold by June. And more… There will hundreds of events, seminars and celebrations attached to the Expo that will entertain adults and children alike. For details see www.wonderfulexpo2015.info. Expo Milano 2015 runs until 31 October 2015.
French Pavilion
BEYOND THE EXPO
Those Expo visitors inspired by the range of foodstuffs, and stimulated by the processes and ambitions of the makers will be glad to know that there is life beyond the Expo, and plenty of opportunity to eat exquisite local food, as well as shop at the finest designer outlets and see some of the world’s greatest art.
92
Hive Pavilion
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Strength of the stallion La Puissance D’un Etalon
We are improving our services Nous améliorons nos services
With our new look, we are committed to being more responsive in serving you better in more refreshing and diverse ways that promises to keep you coming back for a superior retail experience in MRS Stations. We are poised to deliver to you, family, friends and your vehicles; our unparalleled hospitality that is the hallmark of our existence as you drive up our forecourt.
Avec notre nouveau visage, nous nous engageons à être plus sensible à vos demandes et améliorer nos services de vente au détail afin de faire de votre expérience et visite dans les stations MRS une action récurrente, rafraichissante et varié. Nous sommes prêts à offrir, à vous, votre famille, vos amis et ainsi qu’à vos véhicules, et ce dès votre arrivée dans nos stations, nôtre hospitalité renommée qui représente la marque de fabrique de notre compagnie.
HEAD OFFICE / SIÈGE SOCIAL: Plot 2, Tincan Island Port Road, Apapa, Lagos, Nigeria Tel: +234-1-07419000 www.mrsholdings.com
NIGERIA | BENIN | CAMEROUN | COTE D’IVIORE | GHANA | GUINEA | SENEGAL | TOGO | SWITZERLAND
Brera Pinacoteca
Maracana Stadium, Rio De Janeiro
FEATURE DESTINATION
ART
Cantiere del ‘900: a walking itinerary that takes its name from the 900 metres from via Brera to piazzetta Reale, through piazza Scala and the Galleria. The itinerary features the city’s three main museum hubs of the Pinacoteca di Brera containing works by some of Italy’s foremost painters, the Gallerie d’Italian-Piazza Scala and the complex that consists of Palazzo Reale and the Museo del Novecento. The Ambrosiana picture gallery and library (Piazza Pio XI, www.ambrosiana.it) contains many exquisite works of art from the 15th to the 17th centuries. The library will be exhibiting Leonardo’s entire Codex Atlanticus, 40-45 pages at a time, until the end of 2015. The Museo del Duomo (Palazzo Reale, piazza Duomo, http://museo.duomomilano.it) was totally refurbished in 2013 and hosts over 200 sculptures and more than 700 gypsum models as well as paintings, stained glass windows, tapestries and architectural models dating from the 15th century to the present day. Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Technologia Leonardo da Vinci (via Via San Vittore 21, www. museoscienza.org) is one of the most important museums of science and technology in the world. Housed in a 16th century monastery, the museum has collections that explore the relationship between men and machines, beginning with the ingenious inventions of Leonardo himself. FASHION
Quadrilatero della Moda: set within four of Milan’s most exclusive shopping streets: via Montenapoleone, via Manzoni, via della Spiga and corso Venezia, shoppers will find Dolce & Gabbana, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Hermès, Fendi, Giorgio Armani, Alberta Ferretti Philosophy, Emilio Pucci and Ermengildo Zegna, with Chanel and Balenciaga close by. For an ‘old-school’ experience, the spectacular Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a shopping arcade par excellence, the elegant four-storey arcade houses over 55 famous designer shops and luxury cafés, all covered by a wrought iron-andglass barrel vault with a wonderful glass cupola. Tradition says that visitors who place their right heel on the bull depicted on the mosaic floor, and spin about, will find good luck. Fashion meets great architecture at Teatro Armani (Via Bergognone, 59, www.armani.com) Giorgio Armani’s unusual project, located in a former Nestlé chocolate factory, was conceived by world-famous Japanese architect Tadao Ando.
Colonne San Lorenzo
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Arco Della Pace
97
FEATURE DESTINATION
FOOD
Milan boasts 14 Michelin starred restaurants, including Il Ristorante Trussardi Alla Scala (piazza della Scala 5), an elegant restaurant serving top-notch cuisine. The atmosphere is relaxed, yet cosmopolitan, and diners can experience Michelin starred food while enjoying views over the piazza della Scala. Carlo Cracco (via Victor Hugo 4, www.ristorantecracco.it) has earned two Michelin stars for his traditional Milanese cuisine ‘with a contemporary twist’. Architects Beretta remodelled the stylish but comfortable interior, which features warm cherry wood panelling. Larte (Via Manzoni 5, +39 02 89096950, www.lartemilano. com) brings art, fashion and food all under one roof. Inspired by Capri’s Michelin starred ‘Il Riccio’, the restaurant uses seasonal food, quality ingredients and features a guest chef who is a rising star in the gourmet world every month. The Navigli area, also known as the Darsena, was once the seedy canal district, is the city’s liveliest area for sipping aperitifs after browsing the antique shops. A night boat trip with NavigarMangiando (www.naviglilombardi.it/navigare/ navigar-mangiando) will take you along the canals to experience a typical restaurant. The Giacomo Arengario bar (via Guglielmo Marconi, www.giacomoarengario.com) is a stylish cocktail bar and restaurant at the Museo del Novecento and a great place to see and be ‘scene’. Many museums and attractions can be enjoyed with an allinclusive Milan Pass (e69, www.themilanpass.com), which includes a book of vouchers for admission, discounts, a detailed guide and an events calendar, as well as a map of the city.
Tree of Life
Teatro La Scala
STAY
Milan is great for combining, whether it’s food and art, or food and hotels. Treat yourself to a stay in The Galleria Hotel, which is the only official 7 star hotel in the world and is inside The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Second, or the luxurious Bulgari Hotel (Via Privata Fratelli Gabba 7/b, www.bulgarihotels. com) where guests can enjoy the gastronomic delights of chef Roberto Di Pinto’s cuisine in the Ristorante Bulgari. As well as a re-interpretation of traditional Italian food, the restaurant boasts a wine list of over 500 cases of the most carefully selected vintages. The hotel, a converted 18th-century palazzo, has a 4,000 square metre garden, a natural extension of the nearby Botanical Gardens, that was once the monastery’s vegetable garden. A walk through the garden ends at the private Dom Perignon Bar. The Bulgari Spa offers four different ‘Day Rituals’ with the themes of harmony, indulgence, escape and serenity. WHAT’S ON
Continuing the theme of combination: ‘Arts and Foods – Rituals since 1851’ is on at the Triennale di Milano (viale Emilio Alemagna 6, www.triennale.it) until November, followed by ‘Kitchens and Body Snatchers’, a wry look at the transformation of the kitchen through the inexorable ‘invasion’ of equipment, from kettles and coffee-makers to toasters, rubbish disposal to the food mixer. Milano Fine Arts brings together artists, antique dealers, galleries and studios so that art lovers can find their way around the city. See www.milanofinearts.com for a list of exhibitions and events.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio
Expo Milano 2015 informs that as of 30th September 2015 the tickets issued by the company’s ticketing platform with tax seal amount to 18.409.430. The month of September closes with over 4.3 million accesses, thus the total number since the opening now amounts to 16.5 million For more information on Milan’s current events and festivals, where to stay, eat, shop, visit, and sport, see www.wheremilan.com. Images: Jan Fuscoe
99
FEATURE DESTINATION
Everything Equestrian in simply stunning St Moritz Yasemen Kaner-White
W
hether summer or winter, St Moritz offers everything to the equestrian enthusiast. In winter you have snow polo, ‘White Turf’ – prime horse races with international participation, a snowy horse-drawn carriage ride across Lake St. Moritz, or further out to Lake Stazer, also of course, the famous, not-to-be-seen anywhere else in the world – Skikjöring races. The races are a unique combination of captivating trotting and gallop races that alternate on the frozen lake of St. Moritz, in a 30-minute rhythm. Summers offer sunny rides through the Engadin wilderness and now, for the first time ever, an annual international show jumping event: Longines CSI St. Moritz. Whilst in St Moritz recently, I was lucky enough to catch sight of this spectacular event, watching the top riders and young talents of the international equestrian sports with the best horses in the highest level of show jumping. Leta
Joos, the lady behind Longines CSI St. Moritz and the first woman ever to win the Grand Prix Credit Suisse Skikjöring races, explained to me where the conception came from… “it started 5 years ago, I saw so many people coming for winter, I kept telling them how beautiful it is here in summer, but I knew I needed something to entertain them for them to come, and here we are, next year will be after the Olympics, so hopefully we’ll welcome the Olympic champion”. The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) use codes to signify the level of international shows. The code for international showjumping competitions is ‘CSI’. The levels range from CSI *, to the highest – CSI *****. The prize money normally points to the star ratings of the show and maximum and minimum heights apply at each level. Normally the highest height jumped at a 5* would be 1.60m, which is the height all top level Nations Cups are jumped at. The first Longines CSI St. Moritz was held from the
©Lucy Elliott Photography
100
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
FEATURE DESTINATION
©Lucy Elliott Photography
White Turf
Speaking with founder Leta Joos
Wellness Pool, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, St Moritz
26th to 29th August, with a CSI**** and CSI**. In 2016 it will reach CSI*****, the highest-level of competition. Switzerland is the most significant country in the equestrian sport world, with four CSI***** events in Basel, Geneva, Zürich and St.Gallen. The new Longines CSI St. Moritz is one of the most altitudinous show jumping events in Switzerland and Europe. But where to stay? For me, there is only one option I would consider, and that is the beguiling Badrutt’s Palace Hotel. Aptly and conveniently close to all of the action, set in the heart of Switzerland’s Engadin region. Badrutt’s, coinciding with the snow polo season in January, annually welcomes polo patrons, players and spectators alike, to stay with them. Little wonder as it offers sublime peace and relaxation needed after the thrilling equestrian sports. A dip in their incomparable Alpine mise en scène outdoor Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel
pool, massage in the spa carved out of natural rock, soothing yoga sessions, a game of bridge, scenic sail on their yacht or indeed a splendorous meal in opulent settings – don’t forget to book a chef’s table, the Willy Wonka surprise pudding room at the end is unforgettable. A lasting memory for me was swimming in the cool still waters of Lej da Staz, after having a picnic in the nearby forest. I also tried my hand at making cheese at the Alpine Cheese Dairy Morteratsch; Pontresina, much to the amusement of less game onlookers, so, you see, there is much to do, whilst indulging in local hair-raising horsey occasions. *Longines CSI St. Moritz 2016 – August. Tickets start pre-selling in spring 2016 www.badruttspalace.com
St Moritz
101
CUISINE SCENE – THE MEDITERRANEAN
Food of the Sun THE MEDITERRANEAN KITCHEN
For decades now nutritionists have been shouting about the virtues of the Mediterranean diet; we could all be fitter, lither and live longer if only we adopted their culinary ways. The ‘food of the sun’ happens to be fabulously tasty too, it’s what we could call accidentally healthy cooking. It’s all about frugality and freshness, simplicity and seasonality, and a respect for great ingredients.
Jenny Chandler
Malaga’s Central Ataranzas Market
102
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
CUISINE SCENE – THE MEDITERRANEAN
T
he Mediterranean Sea sits between the three great continents of Europe, Africa and Asia. It’s shores are predominantly peopled by two very different faiths with their own religious codes and customs that absolutely define their cooking; the Christians to the north and the Muslims to the south and east. So, when we talk about Mediterranean cuisine, what can we possibly mean? You just take the Italian regions of Liguria and Tuscany, and a local would tell you that the frugal green vegetable and herb based dishes of the first (pesto being the crowning glory) bear no resemblance to the more colourful and varied tomato, fish and meat creations of its neighbour (if you haven’t tried a costata alla fiorentina – the Florentine chargrilled T-bone steak, you haven’t lived). But look at the region as a whole and underneath what might appear to be dozens of disparate cooking styles you’ll find the same essential roots bound in a shared history; the result of thousands of years of trading in goods and ideas. The lands to the east of the Mediterranean are known as the Cradle of Civilisation, where our ancient ancestors first cultivated crops such as wheat, olives, vines, lentils and chickpeas. Cows, goats, sheep and pigs were first domesticated here too. In fact many of modern mankind’s staple foodstuffs started their life right here, but nowadays they’re consumed so globally that we don’t think of them as Mediterranean ingredients at all. Olives, grapes and wheat are widely considered to be the keystones of Mediterranean life and cooking. These three were traded thousands of years ago by the Phoenicians and the Greeks across their empires to the West, and then centuries later the Romans organised their full scale production. In Christian lands they’re sometimes known as the ‘Holy Trinity’, reflecting their place in religious ritual as well as their starring role in the kitchen. A Lebanese cook would be as lost without olive oil as a Southern French chef and it’s not just about frying. The classic Catalan “pa amb oli” (where bread is rubbed with fresh tomato then slathered in olive oil with a pinch of salt) is a perfect example of olive oil being used where many of us might use butter. Extra virgin olive oil plays a starring role in raw dressings, pastes (Provençale tapenade springs to mind) and simple sauces throughout the region. And
Peppers, a New World arrival
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Outdoor eating - Barcelona
Rustic bread straight from the oven - Provence
103
CUISINE SCENE – THE MEDITERRANEAN
then, one of the most common, and irresistible sights of a Mediterranean market has to be the stall heaving with tubs of eating olives of every shade and size: stuffed, spiced, in oil, in brine, it’s the local child’s answer to a pick and mix sweet shop. Vines are most widely grown in the wine drinking nations of the northern Mediterranean, and in recent years we’ve received the welcome news that the traditional glass of red wine with a meal could even be good for our hearts. Meanwhile, in the south, grapes are enjoyed fresh or dried (as raisins) when they play a starring role in plenty of savoury dishes such as spiced pilaffs and tagines as well as sweet pastries. Wine vinegars are used in the classic pickles of the European kitchens such as Sicilian giardiniera, where seasonal vegetables are preserved for the leaner winter months, whilst Muslim countries often use raisin vinegar for similar preparations such as those classic jars of lurid-pink, pickled turnips. Then we come to wheat. Some of the most iconic Mediterranean images involve bread: French housewives wheeling shopping trollies back from the market with the crusty baguette poking out of the top, Moroccan school children balancing trays of unbaked loaves on their heads as they deliver them to the central bakery en-route to school, Egyptian street food carts piled with pittas ready to stuff. Bread has been termed the staff of life and a meal would be unthinkable without it, in some form or another. Wheat is, without a doubt, the most widely eaten grain of the Med. The Turks and their eastern neighbours dive into bowls of burghul, or cracked wheat, in dishes such as kibbeh (raw meat pounded with burghul) or the ever-popular parsley salad tabbouleh. The North African staple is couscous, hard wheat that has been pre-cooked and rolled in flour, a pasta of sorts. The Turks and Greeks have similar diminutive pasta. Then we move west to Italy, the land of spaghetti and almost as many pasta shapes as there are days in the year. Even the Spanish have their tiny noodle fideos that are thrown into a paella-type dish instead of the rice. Almonds, stone fruits and citrus all became ubiquitous with the next great wave of culinary influence that swept in with the Islamic faith from the Arab lands to the east. The Middle ages saw the Bedouins and Berbers of North Africa take on the Muslim religion and march on into Spain and Sicily bringing with them their customs and kitchen as well as their faith. Rice, artichokes and aubergines, exotic spicing and those characteristic sweet and savoury combinations loved by the Arabs, live on today. Take caponata, almost a Sicilian take on the French ratatouille, it’s an example of the sweet and sour agrodolce flavours introduced by the Arabs. The Moorish influence lives on in Spanish escabeche (a punchy pickle for fish and game) and the Catalan combinations of duck with figs or apples stuffed with pork, cinnamon and sultanas. Who could imagine a Neapolitan pasta dish without a touch of fiery peperoncino or a blistering hot Andalucian summer without a chilled bowl of tomato gazpacho? It seems extraordinary to think that so many classic players in the Mediterranean larder arrived in the sixteenth century with the discovery of the New World. Columbus had been seeking out a quick route to the spice lands and instead discovered an entire continent whose indigenous plants
104
Sweet and sour - Red pepper, orange and olive salad
Moroccan Bessara Soup made with Fava beans
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Greek Fava (split pea Fifth Chukker Magazine | VolpurĂŠe) 2 Issue 9
105
CUISINE SCENE – THE MEDITERRANEAN
After the grain harvest - Tuscany
Winter Citrus - The market in Ibiza
Coca - Catalan flat bread with peppers
transformed the Old World kitchen; tomatoes, peppers (and with them the chilli), haricot beans, pumpkins, courgettes and potatoes all arrived at this time. And so it continued over the centuries, a swap shop of ingredients, techniques and customs. The Ottomans bringing more exotic flavours from the East, the fleeing Sephardic Jews of Spain taking their ways back to the Levante and even, much later, the European empire builders such as the French exporting culinary tradition to Lebanon, and much of North Africa. Even today, for better or for worse, tourists affect the local Mediterranean diet, driving new trends and encouraging experimentation. Happily the region has not been as quick as much of the world to adopt the more industrialised junk food diet that seems to be leading to an epidemic of obesity and diabetes. We have plenty to learn. A universal characteristic of the region’s cooking is the dominance of plant based foods. It’s not that the locals don’t eat meat, fish or dairy (in fact vegans or vegetarians are few and far between) it’s just that these foods don’t always have to play a starring role on the table. Pulses: lentils, beans and chickpeas, are eaten in vast quantities extending small quantities of meat, or paired with rice or bread to make sustaining meals.
106
North African Flat breads
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
CUISINE SCENE – THE MEDITERRANEAN
Goats, the hardiest of animals
Middle Eastern hummus and falafel may be celebrity guests in British supermarkets but back down south every region has its own legumerich cazuela or salade. The excitement over the first fuchsia-mottled borlotti beans of the harvest, when they show up in a Tuscan market, is extraordinary. Fabulous simple ingredients are given as much reverence as a good piece of cheese or a fresh fish. A regional cuisine which encircles a sea will quite obviously involve plenty of seafood. Ways of preserving the precious catch date back to the days of the Ancient Greeks and you can still find ladies packing anchovies tightly into jars with salt on the Spanish Costa Brava as they have done for millennia. Good sized fish is usually simply grilled whilst shellfish and smaller specimens find their way into hearty stews with tomatoes and potatoes. The Northern cooks will most likely flavour them with fragrant herbs whilst their Southern and Eastern cousins will usually add spices and a bit of chilli fire too. When it comes to meat, much of the Mediterranean’s animal husbandry is dictated by the climate and geography. Hardy goats survive in extraordinarily rugged, dry landscapes and so their meat and cheese is enjoyed over much of the region. Sheep are pretty sturdy too, and young lamb’s flesh is a highly prized treat, roasted or simply grilled over coals. Skewers of marinated meat appear in virtually every region, spiced or flavoured with different herbs according to the country.
108
Escaping the summer heat
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 8
Artichokes in the Rialto Market, Venice
CUISINE SCENE – THE MEDITERRANEAN
Gloriously fresh sardines
Beef is a rarity, there simply isn’t the pasture land, and so the region doesn’t share Northern Europe’s love affair with cow’s milk, butter and cream. It’s just the pig that divides the cuisine like a hot knife through butter, or in this case lard. Muslims are not permitted to eat pork whilst the Christians of Italy, France and Spain in particular, live for their sausages, salamis and cured hams. So, though the Mediterranean does share a common store cupboard there are plenty of variations too; what ties the kitchen together is a passion for simple dishes where fabulously fresh ingredients get to shine. There’s a natural generosity at the table and, just as importantly, time taken to enjoy and chat over food. Thankfully, much of our fast developing world with its taste for convenience and speed (and the rapidly expanding waistline to go with it) is finally taking note; Mediterranean food doesn’t just taste good, it’s a way of life and a healthy one too.
Jenny Chandler is the author of The Real Taste of Spain (Pavilion) photography copyright Vanessa Courtier and Jenny Chandler.
110
Moroccan Aubergine Zaalouk and pita crisps
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Aosta Valley
CUISINE SCENE – AOSTA VALLEY
WHERE THE STREETS ARE ‘PAVED’ WITH POLENTA Yasemen Kaner-White
Only recently, I discovered Aosta Valley; Italy. Although well travelled in Italy, I must confess, this hidden gem was unknown to me. In fact, only one friend knew of it, because she “fell in love with the barman there, whilst skiing as a child”. A superb recommendation, though I was going to fulfill other desires – foodie thrills, of which there are plenty.
L
ogistically, because Aosta Valley is found within the heart of the Alps, bordered by France and Switzerland, the cuisine is unique and not that of the usual pizza/pasta theme that Italy is commonly associated with. Expect to find plenty of meats from the cured variety, the most famous being the local Morcetta, which is from the Chamois and has been historically hunted for eating, along with other game such as deer. You can also find hot meat dishes, for example Carbonada, which uses deer meat cooked in local wine, served with polenta (you are never far from polenta in Aosta, served with every meal) dressed with Fontina cheese. Deer is a popular meat because you can hunt them locally with a licence. Sausages are a-plenty too, Vallée d’Aoste Jambon de Bosses is a spicy cured pork, whilst the French influenced Boudin, always prepared closely following ancient recipes, is made with boiled potatoes, lard cubes, spices, wine, beef or pork blood and beetroot; giving it colour. Lastly, lard is a traditional delicacy too, namely Lard d’Arnad, which is cured in salt and mountain herbs in wooden barrels, particularly served thinly sliced on a slice of buttered brown bread with honey. The Swiss influence appears in the form of an abundance of appetisers prior to a meal and of course the Fondue, made, naturally, with Fontina. Fontina is full fat cheese which has to age for 3 months before it can be called Fontina, when looking at the menu’s, if it says ‘made the Aosta Valley way’, it’s basically telling you it includes lashings of Fontina. So popular is the cheese, that tours can be booked, dedicated to it. Don’t visit without eating Crespelle alla Valdostana, essentially Fontina filled crepes. Fromadzo cheese is also worth trying and has been produced since the 15th century. The climate is rather unique; high altitude due to the Alps, here you can find the mountain potatoes and apples, both with a more rounded flavour due to, some say, the stony ground which soaks up the sun in the summer, keeping it, to radiate back to the crops in the winter. The high altitude also produces
112
interesting local wines, most prevalent being the sparkling Le Cretes. Aosta Valley has a particularly impoverished background accounting for their uncanny usage of curing and preserving and also explains the lack of lavish local puddings. If you are after something local and sweet, the best offering are the Tegole (roof tiles) hazelnut infused biscuits, made since 1930, chocolate covered ones are a welcomed modern twist. Local coffee dictates a friendly disposition, it is customary to share your alcoholic (Grappa) tinged coffee, with your friends, in a friendship wooden cup, called Grolla, the outer lip of which is covered in sugar and Grappa and set alight before passing round. For your foodie venture, I would recommend staying, as I did, at Nira Montana; La Thuile. Nira is the only 5* hotel in La Thuile, a modern, eco-friendly take on a wooden lodge, but luxurious, at the foot of Mont Blanc and a stones throw from breathtaking ski slopes and hiking trails. Here you can work off your waistlines, having sampled the above, with Nordic skiing, Heli-skiing, freeriding, snow-kiting, winter walks, snowshoe excursions and in summer, nature walks, biking, climbing, high-altitude horse riding, or fishing in lake Verney – 2088m above sea level to catch trout. The hotel offers a fun Woodsman Package, where after a hike with a rather eccentric local named Mauro, guests are treated to a mountain-top feast with unforgettable views, those who have the stomach for it, can get a birds-eye view from a zip wire – highly recommended. If you are bored of being a lazy reciprocate, book yourself in for a pizza making class with an authentic Neapolitan chef and eat your produce ‘al fresco’ with the backdrop that inspired the Milka chocolate advert – great fun. The Nira Montana chefs prepare delicious Italian fare featuring seasonal, regional dishes but also the best Tiramisu outside of Venice (where it originated) served with vanilla parfait. Aosta Valley has a number of eateries ranging from humble taverns to Michelin star, whichever you choose, is sure to pleasingly surprise and satisfy. Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Valpellinese Soup recipe: 1 ½ litres beef broth 1 cabbage, separated into leaves 600g Fontina cheese, sliced Slices of traditional black bread, or stale bread can substitute, how many is up to you Braise the cabbage in the broth. When cooked, remove the leaves and dry on kitchen paper. In a greased baking dish, lay the bread, top with cabbage leaves and finish with the cheese. Pour over the broth. Cook at 180 C for 20 minutes. Serve the ‘soup’ when it is browned. Prodotti tipici
Nira Montana
Traditional Grolla - wooden friendship cup Nira Montana, La Thuile. Woodman Package
Nira Montana, La Thuile
Fontina
To find out more on the Aosta Valley, please visit www.aosta-valley.co.uk www.niramontana.com Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
113
GOOD BOOKS – BOOK REVIEW
Safari Geoffrey Kent by Frances K. White
This specialised tome is an engaging cornucopia of entertaining derring-do on the part of Kent; his high-end clientele of Royalty, celebrities, CEO’s, Presidents et al being testament to his exuberant disposition and meticulous planning, either on Safari or a tailor-made journey, wherein an individual or client groups have complete agency over where they go, what they do, and for how long, or, alternatively, ticking a box on their bucket list with Abercrombie and Kent devising a lavish itinerary to suit; all the foregoing covering over 100 countries; literally every continent across the globe. Like myself, Kent started life as a child in the African bush, which for many, is the start of a love affair with not wanting to read about a place, but to live it, breathe it, eat it, smell it… engaging on every level with different cultures, paradigms, weather and geography. At the commencement of Kent’s journal one immediately tastes the acrid smoke of insect coils in the back of the throat, recalls the plane door opening to step headlong into a solid brick wall of heat, making one gasp for breath only to find one’s lungs momentarily fighting back the effort, until they assimilate to the prevailing heat of Africa. Reading of Kent’s half-century of travel-industry exploits, oftentimes they appear the work of Walter Mitty, except they are so clearly the result of a man not afraid to test his mettle. From driving the family landrover barefoot at the age of six outside Nairobi, revealing his burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit by realising 100% profit upon making and selling ‘good
114
fortune’ elephant hair bracelets; to driving 3,000 miles from Nairobi to Cape Town on the cause of his school expulsion: an illicit motorbike, Kent’s circle of life taught him strategies most folk would never need to know. When Kent’s Indian office-staff were found to be embezzling, they disappeared, after burning the office and contents to the ground, yet Kent intrepidly set-up a new team, salvaging every booking. Again, when Mumbai had a terrorist attack, all Abercrombie and Kent clients were immediately taken to safety. From the Silk Road cities of China to lunch with the Sultan of Oman, to playing Polo alongside Prince Charles, to exploring the Pyramids in Egypt, or a luxury cruise along the Nile, to watching wildlife in Alaska, rare indigenous birds in the Galapagos to South America’s Iguazu Falls, to Botswana, the Congo… the list is endless – you name it, Kent can take you there. One only has to look at the plethora of pictures in every chapter of the book, to realise the truism ‘every picture tells a story’ alongside noting the practical travel tips dotted throughout. Because of Kent, the world has a unique travel agency second to none. If you find yourself with itchy feet and a money box full to bursting, and want to visit some of the most unusual and excitingly strange places this planet has to offer, I urge you to get out the World Atlas immediately, stick a pin in it, and leave the rest to the premier luxury travel company that is Abercrombie and Kent. As an anonymous person once said “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us”.
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
GOOD BOOKS – BOOK REVIEW
Go Set a Watchman Harper Lee by Frances K. White
Nellie Harper Lee sourced the title from an Old Testament passage; Isaiah 21:6, possibly thinking Monroeville, her home town (barely disguised as Maycomb) shared the same questionable moral compass and hypocrisy as Babylon? The Times Education Supplement recommends ten books students should read before leaving education: Watchman’s predecessor; To Kill A Mockingbird, the title a trope for lack of empathy; Mockingbird; a metaphor for Tom, who stood for goodness and righteousness his whole life, being unjustly accused of rape, appearing high on the list. Now, after selling 105,000 UK copies on its first day, Watchman too, hasn’t left the current top ten, doubtless destined to join the aforementioned esteemed assembly, not least, because it is such a volte-face of Atticus’ paradigms as outlined in Mocking, it demands reading. Watchman was rejected by publishers in 1957 with the suggestion Lee write a first person perspective of a 9 year old Scout, as opposed to Watchman’s third person narrative of 26 year old Jean Louise (Scout) having departed New York for segregationist Alabama. The result, 55 years later, leaves one reading not the sequel, but the now politicised, prequel. Mocking had the white widower lawyer Atticus Finch successfully representing the black Tom Robinson, mendaciously accused by Mayella Ewell of rape. Atticus’s moral backbone earned himself the chagrin of the prejudiced ignorant southerners who visited social indignity daily on their black neighbours, aside from Atticus’ one ally, Mr. Underwood, Maycomb’s newspaper publisher. The persuasive social milieu of the time was realistically depicted, yet, fast forwarding (conversely; back) to Watchman, one finds Atticus recalled and
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
reconfigured with the South’s same moral failings; as the confederate flag is taken down and society adjusts to the turbulent events transforming mid1950s America. Atticus admits he once attended a Klan meeting and now, in his seventies, is no more seen as an inspiring hero, rather, a xenophobic bigot of humungous proportions, saying to Scout, about negroes “Do you want them in our world”? yet in Mocking, his actions went far in assuaging the white man’s guilt. Scout’s fond childhood memories are shattered on so many levels; she had hoped her return would recapture the joy of her childhood, yet is saddened and shocked that Calpurnia, the black housekeeper who raised her with the love of a mother, now calls her Ma’am; Scout sensing she “…didn’t see me, she saw white folks”. Henry Clinton, her childhood friend, now working for Atticus, assumes he will inherit everything from Atticus, including Scout’s love, yet he too, merely ‘tolerates racism’ albeit as a means to an end. Now virtually blind, deaf and 89 years of age, one could liken Lee to the recluse Boo Radley, one of the main protagonists of Mocking, when Jem, Scout’s brother in whom she found safety within their free-range childhood, said after the trial, he understood why Boo stayed shut up in his house “it’s because he wants to stay inside”. I urge you to read this book, and Mocking, if you haven’t already done so; in which order? Your choice…they are at once; beguiling, shocking, haunting and memorable. Note Bene:- Unusually, Watchman concludes with the notation the book is printed in Fournier font, established 1924, but the significance of which, isSão notPaulo explained. Pierre Simon Fournier, circa 1742, was an innovative French engraver and type-founder.
115
Provincial Polo He (watching the ineffectual efforts of the No.1 to keep in the game). “YOU SEE, HE’S SUCH A GOOD SUPPORTER OF THE CLUB WE HAD TO INCLUDE HIM IN THE TEAM.” She. “OH I WONDERED. I THOUGHT IT MUST BE BECAUSE HE’S SO GOOD-LOOKING.
Copacabana Palace Beachfront Hotel, Copacabana beach
116
Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
Aly Albwardy
Look who’s reading Fifth Chukker...
With an ever-growing distributing network spanning international hotels and polo clubs to private jets, Fifth Chukker Magazine reaches more than 500,000 readers. Its pages reveal the lifestyle and spending habits of international polo players and provide an unparallel opportunity for brands to connect with this elite world. For further information on how to promote your brand and become part of the Fifth Chukker story please contact us directly on info@fifthchukker.com Advertise in Fifth Chukker magazine – West Africa’s leading polo and lifestyle publication, produced bi-annually (May & October) with an ever growing distribution network of local and international reach – spanning leading hotels, polo clubs, commercial and private jets. The Fifth Chukker Magazine reaches more than 500,000 readers and has a prominent and increasing online following via the Fifth Chukker Website, Facebook and Instagram pages. Contact – Onyeka Udechukwu info@fifthchukker.com Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
117
Adolfo Cambiaso
Rashid Habtoor
Agustin Merlos
Vice President Namadi Sambo
Col. Sani Bello Adamu Atta
High Commissioner Tom Amolo of Kenya
William Tankard
Muftau Baba-Ahmed, Adamu Atta and Tunde Folawiyo
Ex Federation of International Polo President Patrick Guerrand Hermes
Neil Hobday, General Manager, Guards Polo Club Sayyu Dantata
Adamu Atta & Gabriel Batistuta
Ambassador and Mrs Gustavo Dzugala Fans at Palermo
Norberto Pinheiro, Chairman, Pine Bank, Brasil
Bala Bantex Ambassador Ashraf Salama of Egypt
Anna Marie Benedict Femi Otedola
Joe Mayer, President of USPA
Nwankwo Kanu
Facundo Pieres
Ezequiel Martinez
Mr. & Mrs Cristian Braconi
Gbenga Oyebode
UK High Commissioner Andrew and Julie Pockock
HRH Emir of Kano and wife Rekya
High Commissioner William Awinador-Kanyirige of Ghana (right) and friend Uteal Moitra
Jamie Simmons
Saudi Arabian Ambassador Khaled Abed Rabbo and Alhaji Abdulsalam Gashash
Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State Junaid Dikko
Ibrahim Boyi and Jean Gough
Kashim Bukar
Ex Federation of International Polo President and Mrs Richard T. Caleel
Mohammad Babangida Rashid Albwardy
Abdulsamad Rabiu
Aliko Dangote
Magajin Garin Zazzau Nuhu Bamali
Martin Jauregi and Aleandro Traveso
Ferrari South Africa’s Fay (right)
HH Sheika Maitha Al-Rashid AlMakhtoum
Orlando
Federation of International Polo President and Mrs Nicholas Colqhoun-Denvers
Mohammed Habtoor The Salamas of Egypt
Juan Martin Nero & Pablo Mcdonough Rico Chagoury
Geoffrey Kent, CEO Abercrombie & Kent
Evelyn Oputu Walter Schreb His Excellency Ramallan Yero
Roderick Vere Nicoll
Senator Ahmed Makarfi
INTERNATIONAL POLO DIRECTORY
THE INTERNATIONAL POLO CLUB DIRECTORY No matter where your travels may take you around the globe, be sure to pack your polo mallets. There is always a good chance of finding a club to play at nearby... or indeed a game to watch! ARGENTINA 1. Campo Argentino de Polo, Palermo www.aapolo.com 2. Coronel Suarez Polo Club www.coronelsuarezpoloclub.com poloclubcoronelsuarez@speedy.com.ar +54 29 26 431538 3. Ellerstina Polo Club www.ellerstina.com.ar poloweek@ellerstina.com.ar 4. Hurlingham Club, Buenos Aires 4662-5510 al 14 www.hurlinghamclub.org.ar secretaria@hurlinghamclub.com.ar 5. La Alegria Polo Club www.alegriapolo.com patricio@alegriapolo.com 6. La Dolfina Polo Ranch www.ladolfinapoloranch.com 7. Tortugas Country Club, Tortugas www.tortugascountryclub.com.ar AUSTRIALIA 1. Sydney Polo Club, Richmond 61 2 4588 5000 www.sydneypolo.com admin@sydneypolo.com 2. Victorian Polo Club, Armadale, Vic (03) 9576 0391 www.vicpolo.com deb@vicpolo.com AUSTRIA 1. Union Polo Club, Laundorf Ebreichsdorf Tel: 43 4213 32140 Email: office@dienstgut.com; www.dienstlgut.com 2. Schlog Polo Club Tel: 445 2254 72368; Email: secretariat.drasche@aon.at BARBADOS 1. Apes Hill Polo Club (246) 262-3282 www.apeshillclub.com info@apeshillpolobarbados.com BELGIUM 1. La Chatta Polo Club, Koningshooikt Tel: 32 478 88 1091 Email: info@lachatta.be; www.lachatta.be 2. Antwerp Polo Club Tel: 32 3665 1675; Email: Turnhout antwerppoloclub@hotmail.be 3. Bossenstein Golf & Polo, Broeckem Tel: 32 03 485 6446. www.bossenstein.be BRAZIL 1. Helvetia Polo Club, Sao Paulo 55 (019) 3875 4566 www.helvetiapolo.com.br CANADA 1. Toronto Polo Club, Markham, ON 905-888-7656 www.torontopoloclub.com Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
CHINA 1. Tang Polo Club, Beijing 86 (010) 8051 9200 www.tangpolo.com service@tangpolo.com COSTA RICA 1. Los Reyes Polo Club, La Guacima 506 2290 2525 www.losreyescr.com fmpos@hotmail.com CHILE 1. Club de Polo Las Mercedes, Rancagua 56 (72) 5421.740 ENGLAND 1. Ascot Park Polo Club, Surrey Tel: +44 1276858545; email: www.polo.co.uk 2. Beaufort Polo Club, Gloucestershire Tel: + 441666 880510; email: enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk, www.beaufortpoloclub.co.uk 3. Beverly Polo Club, East Yorkshire Tel: + 44 1964 544455; email: info@beverlypoloclub.co.uk, www. beverlypoloclub.co.uk 4. Binfield Heath Polo Club, Oxon Tel: 07792 211259 / 07817 05871; email: bhpcmanager@gmail.com 5. Cambridge & Newmarket Polo Club, Cambridgeshire Tel: + 44 1638 572030; email: aes3@cam.ac.uk; www.cnpc.org.uk6. Cheshire Polo Club, Cheshire Tel: 01270 611100; email: info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk 7. Cirencester Park Polo, Gloucestershire Tel: +44 1885 65 3225; email: info@cirencester.co.uk; www.cirencesterpolo.co.uk 8. Cowdary Park Polo Club, West Essex Tel: 01730 813257; email: enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk 9. Coworth Park Polo Club, Sunninghill, Ascot, Berkshire Tel: 01344875155; email: enquiiries@thepolocentree.com 10. Edgeworth Polo Club, Gloucestershire Tel: + 44 1285 821 695; email: edgeworthpolo@gmail.com 11. Epsom Polo Club, Surrey Tel: +44 1372 749 490; email: epsompoloclub@hotmail.com; www.epsompoloclub.co.uk 12. FHM Polo Club, West Essex Tel: + 44 7778 436 468; email: francis@fhmpolo.co.uk; www.Fhmpolo.co.uk 13. Guards Polo Club, Surrey Tel: +44 1748 434 212; email: administration@guardspoloclub.com; www.Guardspoloclub.com 14. Ham Polo Club, Surrey Tel: +44 20 8334 0000; email: administrator@hampoloclub.com; www.hampoloclub.com 15. Heathfield Polo Club, Oxon Tel: 01869351111; email: info@heathfiueldpark.com 16. Hurtwood Park Polo Club, Surrey Tel: +44 1438 272 828; Hurtwood Park@btconnect.com; www.HurtwoodParkpolo.co.uk
123
INTERNATIONAL POLO DIRECTORY 17. Inglesham Polo, Centre Wiltshire Tel: +44 1367 253939; email: polo@Inglesham-Polo-demon.co.uk; www.Inglesham-Polo-demon.co.uk 18. Kirtlington Park Polo Club, Oxon Tel: +44 1869 350138; email: kirtlington@aol.com; www.kirtlingtonpolo.com 19. Knepp Castle Polo Club, Sussex Tel: 07920 023639; email: info@aspectpolo.co.uk; www. aspectpolo.co.uk20. Light Dragoons Polo Club, Norfolk Tel:01362 627852; www.lightdragoons.com 21. New Forest Polo Club, Hampshire Tel: +44 1425 473359; email: derekval@waitrose.com; www.newforestpoloclub.co.uk 22. Orchard Polo Club, Dorset Tel: 01258 471000; www.orchardpoloclub.com 23. Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club Tel: +44 1344 890060; email: info@rcbpoloclub.com; www.rcbpoloclub.com 24. Royal Leamington, Spa, Warwickshire Tel: 01926 812409; email: info@rtspoloclub.com; www.rtspoloclub.com 25. RMA Sandhurst Polo Club, Surrey Tel: 01276 412276; email: dentonsyard@maspolo.com; www.maspolo.com 26. Rugby Polo Club, Warwickshire Tel: +44 1788 817724; email: rugbypoloclub@btconnect.com; www.rugbypoloclub.com27. 27. Rutland Polo Club, Leicestershire Tel: +44 1572 770747; email: bls400@hotmail.com; www.rutlandpoloclub.co.uk 28. Sussex Polo Club, West Sussex Tel: +44 1342 714920; email: info@sussexpolo.co.uk 29. Taunton Vale Polo Club, Somerset Tel: +44 1823 480460; email: nhs@nhs.supanet.com; www.tauntonvalepolo.co.uk 30. Tidworth Polo Club, Hampshire Tel: +44 1980 846705; email: tidpolo@aol.com; www.tidworthpolo.com 31. Toulston Polo Club, Yorkshire Tel: 01422 372529; INFO@TOULSTONPOLOCLUB.COM 32. West Somerset Polo Club, Somerset Tel: 01398 341515; email: anne@eswoprthycottage.orangehome.co.uk 33. West Wycombe Park Polo Club Buckinghamshire Tel: +44 1494 449 187; email: WestWycombeParkPoloClub.freeserve.co.uk 34. Hertfordshire Polo Club, Woolmers Park Tel: + 44 01707 256023; email:polo@herts.co.uk FINLAND 1. Hyvinkaa Polo Club, Hyyppara Tel: 358 19 485 521; email: mika.lindroos@finnishpolo.org FRANCE 1. Aix-Pertuis Polo Club, Pertuis Tel: 06 67 73 37 53;. email: joelle.eynard.yahh.fr. www.polo-france-aixpert.com 2. Alpilles Polo Club, Saint Andiol Tel: 06 86 58 83 58 / 06 89 60 32 7; Mail: polosud@orange.fr www.alpillespoloclub.fr 3. Armor Polo Club, La Foret Fouesnant Tel: 0689989236; www.polo-chefdubois.fr 4. Brennus Polo Club, Thorigne Sur Oreuse Tel: 06 23 85 83 51; Mail: contact@brennus-polo-club.fr www.brennus-polo-club.fr 5. Brittany Polo Club, Guerande Tel: 02-40-62-02-64; Mail: info@brittanypoloclub.com www.brittanypoloclub.com 6. Calvados Polo Club, Calvados Tel : 02 31 31 19 85; 06 08 30 76 10; (mobile) E-mail : calvadospoloclub@f ree.fr
124
7. Congor Polo Club, Guerande Tel: 33 [0]2 40 62 02 64; mob: 068142 Email: mfdarritchon@fibertel.com.ar 8. Deauville International Polo Club Tel: 33 0 231 88 26 68; Mail: Deauville@pololine.com; www.deauvillepoloclub.com 9. Doyac Polo Club, Saint Seurin de Cardoune Tél. : 05 56 59 34 49; Mail: chateau.doyac@wanadoo.fr; www.chateaudoyac.fr/news/7/news.html 10. La Grange-Martin Polo Club Tel: 01-69-07-51-10; Mail: lagrangemartin@aol.com www.grangemartin.com 11. Latino Polo Club, Vauville Tel: 02 31 39 20 85; Mail: latinopoloclub@yahoo.fr12. Le Chateau Polo Club, Brinay Tél. : 02-48-51-39-47; Mail: chateaudelabrosse@sfr.fr www.chateaudelabrosse.unblog.fr 13. Mariana Polo Club, Morsang, Président Paul Pinto; Tel: 06 12 38 17 86; Email: contact@lamariana.org 14. Medoc Polo Club, Vendays-Montalivet Tél. : 06-77-81-88-71; Mail : medocpolo@gmail.com www.medocpoloclub.com 15.Morsang Polo Club, Longvilliers, Tel: 0164 59 15 06 16. Passion Polo Club, Montigne Les Raines Tél. : 02-41-90-14-80; Mail: alibert.nc49@gmail.com; www.passionpoloclub.fr 17. Polo Club Biarritz Pays-Basque, Arbonne Tel: 06-64-19-82-82; Mail: contact@biarritzpoloclub.com www.biarritzpoloclub.com 18. Polo Club de La Moinerie, Saint Arnoult Enyvelines Tel: 01-42-21-11-80; Mail : poloclublamoinerie@gmail.com www.poloclublamoinerie.com 19. Polo Club de Plaisance, Villemurlin Tel: 02-38-36-43-69; Mail: reine. jpierre@wanadoo.fr http://plaisancepoloclub.free.fr 20. Polo Club de Touraine Tel: 02-47-92-77-65; Mail: secretariat@polo-touraine.com www.polo-touraine.com 21. Polo Club des Tostes, Bonneville La Louvet Tel: 06 88 18 14 63; Mail: bastien.mestrallet@morsangliere.fr www.fermedestostes.com 22. Polo Club du Bouloy, Villemurlin Tel: 02-38-36-48-70; Mail: lebouloy@orange.fr www.poloclubdubouloy.fr 23. Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly Tel: 03-44-64-04-3; Mail: secretariat@poloclubchantilly.com; www.poloclubchantilly.com 24. Polo Club du Pays de Fontainebleau Tel: 01 64 78 34 76; Mail: anelise.reinbold@live.fr www.polodefontainebleau.blogspirit.com 25. Polo de Paris Tel: 01-44-14-10-00; Mail: @polodeparis.com 26. Polo Porte des Sables, Calais Tel: 06-14-01-90-99; Mail: th.vasseur@wanadoo.fr; www.poloportedessables.fr/ 27. Riviera Polo Club, Montauroux Domaine de Pijaubert Tel: +33(0)668660547 Mail: info@riviera-polo-club.fr Alexia Pike 28. Saint-Tropez Polo Club Tel: 04-94-55-22-12; Mail: contact@polo-st-tropez.com www.polo-st-tropez.com 29. San Marco Polo Club, Montpellier San marco Tel: 06 99 65 42 40; Mail: contact@montpellierpolo.com www.montpellierpolo.com 30. Touquet Polo Club, Le Touquet Paris Plage. Tel: 06-07-52-18-09; email:contact@touquetpolo.com; www.touquetpolo.com 31. Chantilly Polo Club, Chantilly www.poloclubchantilly.com Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
INTERNATIONAL POLO DIRECTORY GERMANY 1. Berlin Brandenburg Polo Club Tel 030 - 802 70 68 email: info@berlin-polo.de; www.berlin-polo.de2. Berliner Polo Club Bergmannstr. 3, 14163 Berlin, Tel. 030 - 84 10 87 20; Mobil 0172 - 393 91 78; Email: info@berliner-polo-club.de 3. Mecklenburger Polo club Tel. 039957 – 21177; email: hamaltzahn@aol.com 4. Polo Club Heiligendamm Tel: 038203 – 77439; Fax: 038203 – 77004; email: horst.schuessler@t-online.de 5. Norddeutscher Polo Club, Hamburg Tel. 040 511 64 41; Fax 040 511 34 86; www.hamburgerpologestuet.de email: thomas.winter@pologestuet.de 6. Hamburg Polo Club Tel: 040 82 06 81; email: secretariat@hamburger-polo-club-de 7. Timmendorfer Polo Club Tel. 0160-93 38 67 06; email: as@polo-timmendorfer-strand.de; www.polo-timmendorfer-strand.de 8. Schleswig-Holstein Polo Club Tel: 04123 - 92 29 0; Fax: 04123 - 92 29 20; email: info@Polo-Academy.de 9. Sylt Polo Club Tel. 040 830 38 70; Fax 040 830 38 30; email: info@polosylt.de; info@PoloMasters.de 10. Niederrheinischer Polo-Club Tel. 02801-2091; email: kontakt@gestuet-ullenboomshof.de 11. Frankfurt Polo Club Tel: 0611 - 52 28 41; e-mail: FrankfurterPoloclub@t-online.de www.frankfurterpoloclub.de; twitter: www.twitter.com/frankfurterpolo 12. Stuttgart Polo Club Tel. 0711 - 60 86 37 & 0711 - 649 24 54; email: info@polo-club-stuttgart.de, www.polo-club-stuttgart.de 13. Chiemsee Polo Club, Ising Tel. 08667/ 79-0 email: w.niederberger@murschhauser.de; www.chiemseepolo.de 14. Polo Club Bayern Tel. 089/ 361 58 87; Fax 089 36 31 81; email: info@poloclub-bayern.de www.poloclub-bayern.de 15. Bavaria Polo Club Tel: 089 384 760 29; Fax 089 384 760 31; email: wolf.jage@gmx.de; www.bavaria-polo-club.de 16. Landsberg-Ammersee Polo Club Tel. 0173 - 36 55 325; Fax: 08194 - 93 20 82; email: info@polo-landsberg.de 17. Franken Polo Club Tel. 0911 230 820; Fax 0911 204 370; email: dr.huehnlein@t-online.de GHANA 1.Accra Polo Club, Accra 233 (0) 244 358 922 accrapoloclub@yahoo.com GREECE 1. Athens Biding Polo Club Tel: 30 1940 90000; email; papan180@aol.com 2. Pegasus Polo Club, Koropi Tel: 30 291 22067; email: pegasuspolo@hotmail.com HOLLAND 1. DTZ Polo Club, Bergseweg 28, 3633 AK Vreeland, dtz@polo.nl 2. Polo Club Deuverden, Donkeresteeg Tel: 070 3249650 3. The Dutch Polo and Country Club Tel: 31 343 52 1795; email: dpcc@polo.nl; 4. Wassenaar Polo Club, Waalsdorperlaan Tel: 070 3249650; www.poloclubwaenaar.nl 5. Deuverden Polo Club, Putten Tel: 06-23054348; email: info@poloclubdeuverden.nl Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
HUNGARY 1. La Estancia Polo Club, Budapest Tel: 36 209 914 121; email u.zimmermann@interware.hu 2. Budapest Polo Club Tel: 36 30 941 6679, email: u.zimmermann@interware.hu INDIA 1. Jaipur Riding & Polo Club www.jaipurpolo.com kgarcha@jaipurpolo.com IRELAND 1. All Ireland Polo Club, Phoenix Park, Dublin Tel: 00 353 1 677 6248; email: polo@allirelandpoloclub.com 2. Wicklow Polo Club Tel: 00 353 404 67164; Mobile: 00 353 87 2869691; Fax: 00 353 404 67363, Email: siobhan@polowicklow.com 3. Moyne Polo Club, County Laois Tel: 00 353 502 36135; Fax: 00 353 502 36282 4. Waterford Polo Club Tel: 00353 51 647908; Fax: 00 353 51 647477; Email: eurocabs@indigo.ie 5. Limerick Equestrian and Polo Centre Tel: +353 61 320292 or 087 2254734; Email: limerickpolo@eircom.net 6. Northern Ireland Polo Club, Tandragee Castle, County Armagh, Tel/Fax: 028 3884 1100; Email: shutchinson@tayto.com 7. Brannockstown Polo Club, County Kildare Phone: 00 353 (0)45 483 708; Email: polo@brannockstownpoloclub.com 8. Bunclody Polo Club, County Wexfrod Tel/Fax: 087 6605917; Email: rhogg@eircom.net 9. Border Reivers Polo Club, Pittlesheugh, Berwickshire. Tel: 01890 840 777 or 07764 960 054 ITALY 1. La Fiorina Polo Club, Verona Tel: +39 348 883 4324; + 39 348 883 4323; email: info@lafiorina.com; www.lafiorina.com 2. La Ginevra Polo Club Tel: +39 0690 85320; Email: laginevrapoloclub@tiscalinet.it 3. Ambrosiano Polo Club :Poncia, Tel: +39 342 0574772 /email: info@lanuovaponcia.it; www.lanuovaponcia.it 4. Argentario Polo Club: Tuscany, Tel: 00 39 331 7910101; email: info@argentariopoloclub; www.argentariopoloclub.com 5. Acquedetto Polo Club Rome: Tel: 06.9476830 or 335.372427; email: max@acquedottoromanopoloclub.com www.acquedottoromanopoloclub.com 5. Asso.Punta Ala Equitazione: Tel +39 0577 33392 6. Firenze Polo Club: Tel: 00 39 3487 82 19 18; email: segretaria@firenzepoloclub.it; www.firenzepoloclub.it 7. Ginevra Polo Club, Riano Tel: 00 39 0690 85 320;email: laginevrapoloclub@tiscali.it 8. Milano Polo Club Mesero Tel: 00 39 0297 28 92 92; email:milanopolo@tiscali.it; http://www.milanopolo.com/ 9. Roma Polo Club: Tel: 00 39 06 807 09 07; email: romapolo@tin.it; http://www.romapoloclub.it/index.html 10. Villa Sesta Polo Club: Tel: 00 39 055 99 82 42; email: info@villasestapoloclub.com; www.poloclubvillaasesta.com/demo/index.php JAMAICA 1. Kingston Polo Club (876)926-2916 www.kingstonpoloclub.com info@kingstonpoloclub.com
125
INTERNATIONAL POLO DIRECTORY KENYA 1. Nairobi Polo Club, Nairobi 0722 264217 www.polokenya.com
11. Real Club de la Puerta de Hierro, www.rcphierro.com
MONGOLIA 1. Genghis Khan Polo Club, Orkhan National Park 97688114014 www.genghiskhanpolo.com genghiskhanpoloclub.gmail.com
SWEDEN
12. Soto Mozanaque Polo Club, Madrid, Tel: 91 350 16 62 - 28.036
13. Santa Maria Polo Club, Sotogrande MALTA Tel. +34 956 610 012 - Fax +34 956 610 132; 1. Malta Polo Club, San Guam, Tel: 356 79 476 491; info@maltapolo.com Mail; info@santamariapoloclub.com
NEW ZEALAND 1. Auckland Polo Club www.aucklandpolo.co.nz openmanager@aucklandpolo.co.nz PHILIPPINES 1. Manila Polo Club 63 2 817 0951 www.manilapolo.com ogm@manilapolo.com.ph PORTUGAL 1. Polo Estancia Santo Estavao Tel: 351 63 949 634 info@poloestancia.com; www.poloestancia.comt RUSSIA 1. “Tseleevo Golf and Polo Club”, Tseleevo Village, 56th kilometer of Dmitrovskoe Shosse, Dmitrovskij Area, Moscow Region +7 (916) 018-87-88 info@moscowpoloclub.com SAN MARINO 1. Titano Polo Club, Tel: 378 990 454 email:editano@omniway.sm SCOTLAND 1. Dundee and Pert Polo Club, Pertshire, Tel: 07831 365 194 2. Edinburgh Polo Club, Mid Lothiam Tel: 131 449 66965, jdpolo@tinyonline.co.uk, www.eteamz.com/edinburghpolo SINGAPORE 1. Singapore Polo Club, Singapore (65) 6854 3999 www.singaporepoloclub.org enquiry@singaporepoloclub.org SOUTH AFRICA 1. Kurland Polo Club, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape 27 (44) 534 8082 www.kurland .co.za info@kurland.co.za 2. Val de Vie 27 21 863 6100 www.valdevie.co.za info@valdevie.co.za 3. Jurassic Park Polo Club 27 39 747 4401 www.jurassicparkpolo.co.za mail@jurassicparkpolo.co.za SPAIN 1. Andés Polo Club, Tel: 34 676097374; Email, Andés Navia 33700, 2. Club de Campo Villa de Madrid, Tel: 357.21.32, Tel: 91 550 20 10; Fax: 915 50 20 31; www.clubvillademadrid.com 3. Club de Polo Cal Picasal-- Barcelona, Tel: 93-478.23.46. 4. Club de Polo de Mallorca y Baleares, Email: info@poloclubmallorca.com; www.poloclubmallorca.com 5. Club de Polo Santa Antoni De Viladrau, Barcelona. Tel. +34 607 557 288 Email: info@santantonipoloclub.com 6. Club de Polo Soto Mozanaque, Tel: 91 350 16 62 - 28.036 7. Polo del Sol, Finca Burlanguilla, Cádiz, Spain, Tel: +34 856030042 Mobile: +34 60003694, 8. Real Club de Polo de Barcelona, Tel: 93-402.93.00. 9. Real Club de la Puerta de Hierro, Madrid, Tel: 316 - 17 45 28 035 10. Ampurdan Polo Club, Tel. +34 639 548 69; www.clubdepoloampurdan.com
126
1. Almare Starket Polo and Country Club, Kungsangem Tel: 0708 583 530 email: irene.seth@almare.se SWITZERLAND 1. Geneva Polo Club, Tél: +41 791019638 Mail : info@genevapoloclub.com; www.genevapoloclub.com 2. Bern Polo Club, Rubigen Tel: + 41 31 721 36 30 Mobile: +41 79 946 55 44 mail;info@polobern.ch 3. Gstaad Polo Cub, Tel: +41 33 744 07 40 Mail info@pologstaad.ch 4. St. Moritz Polo, Tel. +41 81 839 92 92 · Fax +4181 839 92 00; E-Mail: info@polostmoritz.ch THAILAND 1. Thai Polo and Equestrian Club 66 81 61 74 744 www.thai-polo-club.com santithaipoloclub@yahoo.com UAE 1. Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, Dubai, UAE 971 4 3617111 www.poloclubdubai.com info@poloclubdubai.com 2. Dubai Polo Club, Desert Palm, Dubai, UAE 971 50 3434557 www.dubaipoloclub.com martin.dubaipolo@gmail.com UNITED STATES 1. Aiken Polo Club, Aiken SC (803) 270-6195 www.aikenpoloclub.org aikenpoloclub@bellsouth.net 2. Country Farms Polo Club, Medford, NY (631) 345-9585 www.country-farms.com bob@country-farms.com 3. Eldorado Polo Club, Indio, CA (760) 342-2223 www.eldoradopoloclub.com eldorado@eldoradopoloclub.com 4. Gulfstream Polo Club, Lake Worth, FL (562) 965-2057 www.gulfstreampolo.com seemaria@bellsouth.com 5. Greenwich Polo Club, Greenwich, CT (203) 561-5821 www.greenwichpoloclub.com leightonjordan@whitebirchpaper.com 6. International Polo Club Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, FL (561) 204-5648 www.internationalpoloclub.com jnewman@internationalpoloclub.com 7. Santa Barbara Polo Club, Carpinteria, CA (805) 684-6683 www.sbpolo.com melanjaj@gmail.com 8. Saratoga Polo Association, LLC; Saratoga Springs, NY (518) 584-8108 www.saratogapolo.com jrossi@saratogapolo.com 9. Southampton Polo Club, Water Mill, NY (561) 848-1650 www.southamptonpolo.com shamptonpolo@yahoo.com 10. Aspen Valley Polo Club, Aspen, CO (970) 710-1663 www.worldsnowpolo.net aspenvalleypolo@bellsouth.net 11. Meadowbrook Polo Club, Old Westbury, NY (631) 345-9585 www.meadowbrookpolo.com 12. Myopia Polo Club, Hamilton, MA (978)468-7656 www.myopiapolo.org info@myopiapolo.org WALES 1. Monmouthshire Polo Club, Lower Machen, Tel: 01633 441322 Fifth Chukker Magazine | Vol 2 Issue 9
C ommand the field
Gulfstream aircraft are prized for record-breaking speed and distance, allowing you to set the pace for all your travel needs. Make the most of your play time, your work time and every hour in between. Count on an aircraft with a lineage of excellence that began in 1958.
PETE BURESH | +27 82 315 6338 or +1 912 224 7548 | pete.buresh@gulfstream.com | GULFSTREAM.COM