Polo on the River - A Fun Event for All to Enjoy by Alana Owen

POLO ON THE RIVER

A FUN EVENT FOR ALL TO ENJOY

by ALANA OWEN

Polo is a ball game played by two teams on horseback, and its popularity as one of the top sports for the wealthy has earned it the nickname “the sport of kings.” Sports that rich people enjoy, like polo, feel special and exclusive because you would have to be a member of a polo club to play or even watch a match.

Kelly Coldiron, Wellston resident, owner, and event planner for Polo on the River, is an active member of the Tulsa Polo Club. Kelly strongly advocates for equine disciplines, and for creating access to the sport of polo in the USPA Great Plains Circuit.

Imagine that; an Oklahoma resident is breaking down the wealth barriers and making polo an affordable sport for the entire family to enjoy, right here in Oklahoma.

Polo on the River is a venue designed to support the Stockyard City District’s Mission, as well as the promotion of agricultural hands on learning opportunities. Equestrian competitions and the showcasing of many equestrian disciplines is their goal. Individual ticketing, or group seating along with options for private parties are all part of the offering to help patrons enjoy the venue.

Kelly offers Oklahoma residents the opportunity to learn to play polo. Polo players are a variety of ages. The horses are provided and you are first taught not to fall off a barrel. Sit and balance first, then ride and grow your confidence. In November, Polo on the River will offer lesson packages so you can learn to ride, learn or become a polo professional.

Polo events for November will be held November 18 and 19, 2022 in conjunction with the Stockyards tree lighting celebration, located just off Highway I-40 and Agnew Avenue in Oklahoma City.

For more information, please refer to their website at: https://www.poloontheriverokc.com/tickets.html A bit of history...Polo was first played in Persia (Iran) at dates given from the 6th century B.C.E. to the 1st century A.D. Polo was a training game for cavalry units, usually the king’s guard or other elite troops.

Friend and former local news anchor, Stan Miller, attended the October Polo on the River events, and served as their announcer. I asked Stan to share his experience with me. Here is what he advised. He said, “This was the first time I’ve done announcing for polo matches. It was tough at first trying to keep up with the action, but by day two it was fun. I was a polo player in San Diego, so I have a good understanding of the game. Kelly put the whole thing together, got the city to approve it, and even participated in it! She is a remarkable woman whom I admire greatly. The ponies are the true stars of polo…and there is nothing like the sound of half a dozen thoroughbreds flying by!”

Look for me in the audience in November. I only wish my draft-cross could attend and watch with me. Maybe he could learn to line out that rough lope so I can be a better passenger. Or, maybe I need to practice my barrel sitting. Have fun and enjoy! n

IMAGINE THAT... an Oklahoma resident is breaking down the wealth barriers and making polo an affordable sport for the entire family to enjoy, right here in Oklahoma.

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