Volume 23 • Issue 1 • February 2018 • £6.50
THAI POLO OPEN Royal Pahang Secure Victory HPA NEW YEAR CLUB NATIONALS All to Play For at RCBPC ‘TINCHO’ MERLOS INTERVIEW It’s All About the Horses PLUS: Kitzbühel, Dubai, Miami Action & USA 26 Goal Guide
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Contents
Contacts Publisher
What’s inside…
February 2018
Nick Hine publisher@polotimes.co.uk Editor in Chief Richenda Hine richenda@polotimes.co.uk Editorial Manager Rosabella Hine rosabella@polotimes.co.uk PR Manager & Editorial Jen Liggins editorial@polotimes.co.uk
38
Editorial & Subscriptions Sarah Flight office@polotimes.co.uk
36 Military Polo
Advertising Sales
49
Richard Hine richard@polotimes.co.uk
Women’s Polo
Advertising & Subscription Sales Rebecca Hastie sales@hinemarketing.co.uk Principal Design James Morgan
51 51
42 News 6 14
Additional Design Tony Ruddy
All the Latest News FIP Update Your Views & Social Media
Features
Angie Clark accounts@polotimes.co.uk
18 20 22
Accounts & Administration Assistant
Reports
Rosalind Cutter ads@polotimes.co.uk Overseas Reporter Katie Vickery katie@polotimes.co.uk
Contributors: Holly Grantham BVetMed MRCVS,
Stephen Biddlecombe, Rege Ludwig, Lorna Edgar, Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers, Dr. Andreas Krüger, Robin Spicer, Reinhardt & Sommer, Diana Butler, George Meyrick, Sandy Kinney & ©Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com
Contact details
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© Polo Times Limited 2018 and Database Right 2018 Polo Times Limited holds the copyright & database right to the information it publishes
28 32 33 34 36 38 42 44
Big Picture Heads You Win Interview: ‘Tincho’ Merlos’ Horses Cover Story: All To Play For in America Cover Story: Beach Polo Cup Dubai 2017 United Kingdom Beat South Africa Cover Story: Beach Polo World Cup Miami The Playnation Arena Polo Masters 2018 Cover Story: 16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel Cover Story: Thai Polo Open 2018 Cover Story: The HPA New Year National Club Championships
Club Focus 47
A Round-Up of Women’s Polo 5 minutes with… Melissa Ganzi
Youth Polo
Comment 16
Financial Controller
Military: HACKETT Army Tour India
Your Club News from Home and Abroad
53
HPA Youth Tour to South Africa
Knowledge
54 Pony Power: Polo Times Best Playing Polo Series 56 Equipment Focus: Bits – Picking A Strong Mouthpiece 58 Playing Tips with Rege Ludwig: Hitting Coordination and Synchronisation 60 Vet Insight: Dispelling Myths About Colic 62 Polodoc: First Response on the Field 64 Nutrition Focus: Ponies Playing Arena Polo 66 Lipogems: Check It Out
Sidelines 68 71
Gossip: Don’t Be the Last to Know! Sidelines: Social Pages
Polo Directory 77
What’s On in February?
Final Bell 80
Passions: Jan-Erik Franck
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Polo Times, February 2018
Cover photograph: Axus’ Diego Gómez and Royal Pahang’s Tomasito Fernández Llorente vie for possession of the ball during the 2018 Thai Polo Open Final at Thai Polo & Equestrian Club. By Dominic James | www.dominic-james.com
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News
With a new year upon us, no doubt New Year’s resolutions are still in the forefront of everyone’s minds. What have you resolved to do or not do this year? Are you a patron who is determined that the 2018 team list will see more homegrown players? Or perhaps you are an infuriated player who bought a new helmet only last year to be told that it is destined for the dustbin as it does not meet the new regulations. No doubt you have resolved to act graciously and not shout at any umpires, officials or Polo Managers. Maybe you have not been one of the lucky ones, jetting off to play polo in Palermo or frisk in the snow with the high goal fraternity whilst earning a small fortune. Make sure you stick to your promise not to be jealous, but to be magnanimous and gracious at all times. It is good news that an announcement has been made by the HPA and the Home office that the 2017 concessions will be maintained for the forthcoming season. However, despite being in a relatively well informed position I regret to say that I am still somewhat confused by the whole situation. In light of this we are going to spell out in layman’s terms the exact position for all levels of players for the 2018 season in a forthcoming issue. So watch this space. In the meantime, if anybody does have any insight, comment or view please do let us know and rest assured we will spotlight your opinion and get any answers you need for full clarity. With the arena season in full swing, despite lashing rain and swirling sleet aplenty, there has been lots to keep the Barbour-clad spectators entertained. With the Arena Gold Cup and the Bryan Morrison Trophy on the horizon and weather improvements (hopefully) in the offing there should be much to keep UK based polo fans busy. On behalf of the Polo Times Team, we wish you a great 2018 and good luck with those resolutions!
2018 Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz
Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
from the Publisher
Action in the 2018 Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz is underway as we go to press
During the last weekend of January, the crème de la crème of snow polo will be competing in the Alpine home of snow polo for the coveted Cartier Trophy. Following the official team and sponsor presentation on Thursday 25 January, play will get underway with an initial match between Cartier and Badrutt’s Palace Hotel on Friday 26 January at 12pm. This will be followed by the second match of the tournament at 2.15pm between Maserati and Azerbaijan Land of Fire. The next day Maserati and Cartier will begin the day’s proceedings, followed by Badrutt’s Palace vs Azerbaijan Land of Fire. On Sunday, the teams will face off in the Final and Subsidiary Final to end an exciting weekend of snow polo. Alongside the thrilling polo, guests will be entertained by a multitude of social events and experiences you won’t find anywhere other than St. Moritz. Polo Times and The Polo Magazine will be reporting live from the event as official media partners and event publishers. A full report will feature in the next issue of Polo Times. For more information, please visit the website www.snowpolo-stmoritz.com The 2018 St. Moritz Snow Polo World Cup Teams: Team Cartier (16): Rommy Gianni (1/ITA), Chris Hyde (5/ENG), Dario Musso (6/ARG) & Juan Cruz Greguoli (4/ARG) Team Azerbaijan Land of Fire (16): Elchin Jamalli (3/AZE), Lala Laplacette (5/ARG), Adrian Laplacette Jr. (6/ARG) & Rashad Hasanov (2/AZE) – Reserves: Ali Rzayev (0/AZE), Amil Namazov (0/AZE) & Tarlan Gurbanaliyev (1/AZE) Team Badrutt’s Palace Hotel (17): Melissa Ganzi (1/USA), Tito Gaudenzi (2/SUI), Alejandro Novillo Astrada (8/ARG) & Juan Bollini Snr. (6/ARG) Team Maserati (17): Zhanna Bandurko/Raya Sidorenko (0/RUS), Gerardo Mazzini (6/ARG), Hissam Al Hyder (6/PAK) & Robert Strom (5/FRA)
Argentina vs New Zealand Test Match
The Argentine Polo Association have accepted an invitation from the New Zealand Polo Assocation to take part in an international Test Match on Saturday 10 February at the Kihikihi Polo Club, in the Waikato region, Auckland. The AAP have confirmed that Diego ‘Topo’ Braun will coach the team after their success at the FIP World Championships in Sydney, Australia. The New Zealand team is yet to be announced, but the AAP have confirmed the team, which will be as follows: The Argentine Test Match Team: Argentina (25): Juan Martín Zubía (7), Santiago Loza (6), Genaro Ringa (6) & Patrick O’Dwyer (6) In other news, on the same day, the Argentine 2018 season will get underway with the beginning of the Cañuelas Rush 2018 Cup Finals at the Puesto Viejo Estancia & Polo Club. This tournament will be part of the XI Circuito Polo Sur, which will also see a Women’s tournament alongside the usual tournament. Entries are now open for the 8 goal tournament.
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Polo Times, February 2018
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The British Open
Arena Gold Cup Saturday 24th February 2018
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News Lipogems Equine Success Story
Obituary Susan Bailey BEM
There was a Gold Cup comeback for this eight-year-old high goal polo pony in 2017 following Lipogems Equine treatment in May 2016 for a suspensory branch desmitis in the forelimb. The ultrasound scans showed remarkable fibre pattern changes and walk work began 12 weeks following treatment and then winter turnout before playing the 2017 summer season. The pinnacle of the pony’s return to work was playing in the Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup at Cowdray Park Polo Club. For more information on treatments for saving your champion and for a list of accredited equine vets visit www.lipogemsequine.com
15 December 1942 – 12 December 2017
Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
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Polo Times, February 2018
The ultrasound scan pre-treatment showing the injured suspensory tendon tissue
This scan shows the healing and regeneration of the tissue on 15 June
The final scan in September shows normal tissue where the injury was before
Iberian Polo Tour
Cría PX were victorious against Esperanza in the second stage of the Iberian Polo Tour
In the Final of the Copa Casa Fagliano, the second stage of the Iberian Polo Tour, Cría PX rode to victory 6½-5 against Esperanza on Ground 2 at Ayala Polo Club. Rosendo Torreguitar was awarded the Most Valuable Player Award, whilst his pony El Río was presented with the Best Playing Pony rug. The Copa Casa Fagliano Final Teams: Cría PX: Pedro Beca, Enrique Barroso, Pelayo Berazadi & José María Ponce de León Esperanza: José Manuel Infiesta, Rosendo Torreguitar, Santiago Torreguitar & Hernán Pieres
Magic Millions
Following an exceedingly successful event in the USA, hoards of polo fans were invited to Australia’s Southport Spit for the 2018 Magic Millions event. The highlight of the day was the exhibition polo match, which saw a mixture of jockeys and professional polo players take to the field alongside the face of Magic Millions and Ralph Lauren, Nacho Figueras. Alongside the exhibition polo match, the day also showcased bloodstock sales and a racing carnival. To add to the excitement, HM The Queen’s granddaughter, Zara Phillips officially announced that she was expecting her second child with husband Mike Tindall, at the event.
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Photograph courtesy of the Iberian Polo Tour
Susan Bailey BEM was a familiar figure at Guards Polo Club for many years. A Board Director for almost a decade – representing the interests of the social (non-playing) members of the Club – Susan was passionate about ensuring that Guards Polo Club delivered the very best for both players and spectators at all times. This may have caused her to ruffle feathers at times, but she was invariably forgiven when people realised that she always had the Club’s best interests at heart. This was evident in the warm tributes sent to the Club following her death last December, after a long and courageous battle against cancer and the packed church for her funeral in Cranbourne, Berkshire, just days before Christmas. In fact, the church was full of equestrians, as Susan did not limit her interests to just Guards Polo Club. She was a dedicated member of the Windsor Park Equestrian Club, chairing their social committee and organising many memorable parties for them, especially those at Windsor Castle in the presence of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. Susan knew the Duke well, thanks to their shared interest in carriage driving. Susan was the founding member and Chairwoman of the annual Windsor Great Park Sponsored Carriage Drive. Originally set up as a fundraiser for the 1984 Olympics, Susan successfully raised £20,000 at that first event. Such success inspired her to continue to run this popular event for many years, regularly attracting some 100 competitors and raising significant sums for charity. In an interview with a local paper when she was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to charity in the 2014 New Year’s Honours list, Susan recalled, “I particularly wanted us to reach the £¼ million mark when the event reached its 25th year and we did.” Susan was also a key figure in the world of Riding For The Disabled (RDA) and was the driving force behind HRH The Princess Royal attending an RDA gala day at Guards Polo Club in 2014. Susan was Chair of the Riding for the Disabled Driving Committee for several years and a regional driving representative for Greater London RDA, as well as being an RDA carriage driving assessor. Away from her equine interests, Susan was a former Lady Captain at Wentworth Golf Club and a former Chair of their Club’s social committee. Guards Polo Club was able to benefit from this relationship, as Susan created a unique partnership between these two leading sporting institutions, enabling all Guards Polo Club members to access Wentworth’s excellent dining facilities in the Polo Club’s off season for several years.
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News Power of Polo
News From Argentina
On Tuesday 19 December, Adolfo Cambiaso was awarded the Premio Olimpia 2017 Award by the Círculo de Periodistas Deportivos de Buenos Aires following another successful high goal season in Argentina. This was his eleventh receipt of the award having been presented with the prize in 97, 98, 99, 02, 05, 06, 07, 13, 14, 15, and 17. In other news, the AAP Board of Directors has approved a series of rule modifications first used in the 2017 Triple Crown series. The regulation became effective on 1 January 2018 and will be used in all polo tournaments across the country. The objective behind the rule changes is to make the game more dynamic and spectator friendly. The amended rules are as follows: • Throw-ins – When the ball goes out of play, the game is hit in by the opposing team. The umpire will place the ball five yards from the boards, aligned with where it went out. Players should be within 30 yards of the ball. • The off-side rule will apply. • Yellow cards – A player who received a second yellow card in a game will leave the ground for two minutes. His/her team will be left with three players only during that time. • 30 yard penalties cannot be defended. • Change of game time – 6½ minute chukkas will be played until the first bell. After the bell, 30 seconds will be played unless a goal is scored, a foul called or the ball goes out of play. • Penalties – a player only has 20 seconds to execute a penalty once the ‘Play’ call is given. • Injuries – If a player is injured, the game will only be halted for five minutes, whilst the player receives medical assistance. A substitute must be ready to take the injured player’s place.
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Polo Times, February 2018
Photograph courtesy of Power of Polo
Power of Polo celebrated the end to another great year with Christmas chukkas at Fifield Polo Club, with prizes provided by Prisk clothing. For 2018 it’s onwards and upwards with the appointment of Eden Ormerod of Druids Lodge Polo Club to the Board. Power of Polo CEO, Katy Hayward, said of the appointment, “We are incredibly excited to be working with Eden, in addition to being a successful polo player and coach he has hands on experience of teaching our youth demographic in an inner city school. It’s an unique combination to bring to the team and move the charity forward”. To learn more about Power of Polo please visit www.powerofpolo.org.uk and follow them on Twitter and Instagram @Powerofpolo #changeyourline
Power of Polo celebrated another great year with their annual Christmas Chukkas and party
FIP Annual Newsletter
During the General Assembly, held on 1 December at the Alvear Palace Hotel, the following points were decided and reported. • New members of the Council of Administration have been elected. Representing C member countries Iago Masias from Peru was elected. Representing B members, Peter Prendiville (reappointed) and Gerardo Valdes from Chile. To view all changes visit www.fippolo.com/about-us/#administration • In line with the current practice of the Chairmen or Presidents of A member associations of automatically becoming Vice Presidents of FIP, it was felt that the representatives of the B & C Countries appointed to Executive Committee should also become Vice Presidents. This was proposed and approved at the GA and will be incorporated into our bylaws in the next reform thereof. Meanwhile we congratulate Piero Dillier and Francois Berger for their appointments. • New Ambassadors appointed by the President: Peter Higgins, Sinclair Hill, Peter Abisheganaden, Miguel Calzada, Jean Edouard Mazery and Estuardo Masias Jr. To view all changes visit www.fippolo.com/ambassadors/
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Polo Times’ Nick & Rich Hine visiting Dr. med. Andreas Krüger at B3 - Praxis
B3 - Praxis am Bahnhofplatz Dr. med. Andreas Krüger and his team are specialists in the treatment of orthopaedic and traumatic equine sport related injuries with a focus on the shoulder and knee pathologies. Within the direct neighbourhood, radiological and physiotherapy departments are also located.
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News St. Regis World Snow Polo Championship
2018 USPA Equine Drugs and Medication Rules Update
Photograph by Melissa Ganzi
A letter was released by the USPA at the end of 2017 reiterating that any form of anabolic steroid use in horses is now banned. The USPA will be testing at randomly picked tournaments throughout the USA at all levels over the course of 2018. For more information about the updated USPA Drugs and Medication Rules, please visit www.uspolo.org
Helmet Rule Change Reminder Players from across the world gathered in Aspen to compete in the 2017 St. Regis World Snow Polo Championship
In the first international snow polo tournament of the season, defending champions Flexjet took to the snowy arena against home team U.S. Polo Association in the Rio Grande Park in Aspen, Colorado for the Final of the 2017 St. Regis World Snow Polo Championship. Despite the lack of snow, the Final was fierce. America’s greatest export, Nic Roldan alongside Juancito Bollini and Grant Ganzi, the son of organisers Marc and Melissa Ganzi, took home the coveted trophy with a 5-4 win. Roldan said after the match, “We got a good lead in the beginning and then they got a couple. They are a strong team and they got a couple of good goals in the end, but we were a little luckier today. There was a lot of tough competition this year. I think this was probably one of the best years, if not the best year, team wise, and the attendance was amazing. All in all just a great show and a great tournament.” This was the third year Roldan, Bollini and Ganzi have played together, with Roldan taking home this year’s Most Valuable Player Award. The tournament is set to take place once again in December 2018.
English High Goal Snippets Although the majority of polo’s top players are currently residing far, far away in much sunnier climes it won’t be along until they return to take on the UK’s most prestigious tournaments. As it currently stands it would seem that this year’s team sheet is likely to feature a host of high goal regulars, but we can also look forward to welcoming Andrey Borodin’s Park Place and Alshair Fiyaz’s F Polo to the UK
As of 1 January 2018, the Helmet rule has changed. All helmets must now be type approved to the standard PAS015:2011 with a CE Mark, SNELL E2001, VG1 01.040 2014-12 or UTAC/CRITT 04/2015. Helmets can be purchased from approved stockists and must be worn when playing from now on. The HPA list of approved helmets are: Manufacturer
Model
Standard
Armis
Armis
PAS015:2011 and VG1 01.040-2014
Charles Owen
Palermo Polo
PAS015:2011 and VG1 01.040-2014
Charles Owen
Polo Edition
PAS015:2011 and VG1 01.040-2014
Charles Owen
Young Rider Polo
PAS015:2011 and VG1 01.040-2014
GPA
Speed Air/Polo X2
UTAC/CRITT 04/2015
Instinct Polo
Instinct Polo Helmet
PAS015:2011
22 goal for the first time. However, there is one key team name that will not feature in this year’s high goal programme, and that is King Power. The familiar blue shirts and winners of The Gold Cup for the past three consecutive years will not be returning to defend their title. However, they continue to show their support of the British high goal, and they will still be very much present in the 2018 edition of The Gold Cup due to the fact that they have taken over the sponsorship of Cowdray Park’s Gold Cup. We can’t wait to find out who they will hand the trophy over to.
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Polo Times, February 2018
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News World Polo Tour 2018
Polo is granted an extension to the 2017 concessions In a recent update from the HPA, the Home Office has announced an extension to the 2017 concessions given to the polo community regarding international players and grooms in the UK polo circuit. In summary, the regulations regarding international grooms and male players remain the same, with additions made for female players, managers, coaches and polo pony trainers. For more information, please visit www.hpa-polo.co.uk/rules-regulations/ work-permits/visa-update/ for the full HPA report. With confusion still surrounding the visa situation an update and explanation will follow in a future issue of Polo Times. Council meeting 11 December During the annual HPA Council meeting, amendments were made to the Home Grown www.polotimes.co.uk
Alfredo Bigatti, Tommy Severn, Hazel Jackson-Gaona and Polito Pieres have all seen handicap rises in the Argentine Handicap changes
been demoted from 8 to 7 goals, whilst Luke Tomlinson will now be 6 goals. In the Women’s handicap section, Brit Hazel Jackson-Gaona has been moved from 8 to 9 goals, whilst Argentine Open winning Mía Cambiaso has been raised from 5 to 6 goals. Cambiaso’s teammates Milagros and Candelaria Fernandez Araujo have been raised from 6 to 7 goals and 6 to 8 goals respectively. A full list of handicap changes can be found at www.aapolo.com
Dubai Gold Cup Series 2018
This year, the 18 Goal Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series will enter its ninth year under the patronage of HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The Series will feature five tournaments throughout January to April; The McLaren Cup, The Polo Masters Cup, The Julius Baer Gold Cup, The Dubai Challenge Cup and The Dubai Cup. On Monday 22 January, a live draw was held for the first of five tournaments in the Series, the McLaren Cup, which will take place at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club. This year will see six teams taking part, with a host of top-ranked players including Pablo MacDonough, Polito Pieres, Ezeqiel Martinez Ferrario and Francisco Elizalde in the line-ups. The Final will take place on
Player rule, the 22 goal handicap list, the regulation regarding under-18 non-EEA players and numerous rules. All these changes can be found on the HPA website under the Council meeting minutes http://www.hpa-polo.co.uk/ council-meeting-minutes-from-the-meeting11-december-2017
Photograph by Gonzalo Etcheverry
HPA Update
Sapo Caset and Polito Pieres regain 10 goal status On Wednesday 13 December, the AAP announced the handicap changes for the coming season. Following the 124th Argentine Open at Palermo, Ellerstina firecracker Pablo ‘Polito’ Pieres and Sapo Caset have once again seen their handicaps raised to the illustrious 10 goal status, joining the ranks of world number one Adolfo Cambiaso, Pablo MacDonough, Juan Martín Nero, David ‘Pelon’ Stirling, Hilario Ulloa and Polito’s family members Facundo, Gonzalito and Nico Pieres. Meanwhile Fred Mannix Jnr, Ignacio Novillo Astrada and Facundo Sola have been moved up from 8 to 9 goals, and Diego Cavanagh and Alfredo Bigatti, amongst others, have been raised to 8 goals. In the lower brackets, Tommy Severn saw an impressive raise from 0 to 3 goals, matching his UK handicap and King Power young guns, Jimbo Fewster and Hugo Taylor have been raised from 1 to 3 goals and 0 to 2 goals respectively. Amongst the most important decreases, Eduardo Heguy and Juan I. Merlos have
Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
The latest developments in the 2018 World Polo Tour are as follows: The following tournaments are entering the series: • Dubai Polo Challenge Cup (18 Goal) • Coronation Cup • Deauville Silver Cup (16 Goal) • FIP European Championship (8 Goal) Changes will be made to the WPT ranking point system for the following tournaments following their increased popularity. • Indian Empire Shield, Guards Polo Club (18 Goal) • Challenge Cup, Cowdray Park Polo Club (18 Goal) • Sotogrande Silver Cup, Medium Goal, Santa María Polo Club (14 Goal) • Cote d’Azur Cup & Open du Soleil, Saint Tropez Polo Club (18 Goal) • Duke of Wellington Cup, Guards Polo Club (18 Goal) • Thai Polo Cup Argentina (14 Goal) • Polo Challenge Silver Cup, Dominican Republic On 31 December, each player’s total points were halved, thus meaning each player began the year with a new score. Each player that enters the WPT rankings will do so with 10 points for each handicap goal they have as of 1 January 2018. What’s more, 2018 will also see the introduction of a Women’s WPT series. More news of this new series will follow in future issues.
Argentine 2017 Handicap Changes
Action from last year’s tournament as Santiago Gomez Romero holds possession for Habtoor in the Dubai Cup
Friday 9 February in what is set to be a very exciting tournament. For more information, please visit the website www.dubaipologoldcup.com
a wealth of low goal polo knowledge to the Association as well as focusing on social media and press.
New appointment Former Moor Farm Polo Club Manager Will Mawby has recently moved on to fresh pastures with the HPA. He will be bringing Polo Times, February 2018
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FIP News
FIP Update President of the Federation of International Polo, Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers, gives us an update on the latest FIP news from around the world
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Polo Times, February 2018
only do we continue to support youth polo development, umpiring and coaching clinics around the world through both IOC Funds and the FIP Development Funds. We have also maintained a programme of ongoing and successful events that any organisation would be proud of. The World Snow Polo Championships, FIP European Championships which included this year, thanks to the work of the Perrier Family, Patrick Guerrand-Hermes and the Chantilly Polo Club, the first FIP Ladies European Polo Championship; Zone Play-Offs in Chantilly, Iran, Thailand, Florida and Uruguay and some pretty spectacular World Polo Championships, first in Chile and then more recently in Australia. We move ever closer to the IOC supporting the hard work that the AAP has done with ongoing discussions over the Youth Olympics being held here in Buenos Aires as a showcase sport next year. We are working on the possibility of running polo as a demonstration event in the Paris Olympics in 2024 as well as the possible inclusion in both the IOC Winter Olympics and also the World Equestrian Games. We also took a role in the SEA Games in Malaysia thanks to Peter Abishenagarden and the Director of Zone D, Peter Prendiville. Pat Nesbitt and Billy Steta President of Mexican Polo have worked hard on the inclusion of polo in the Pan American Games. And, of course, we continue with the FIP Ambassador Cup Programme around the world as well as a Military Ambassador programme under the direction of Ricardo Mihanovich and his Ambassador Cup Committee. The Marketing Committee under the chairmanship of Bruce Colley is doing a great job on the sponsorship front which is not easy these days and although we have lost Gulfstream, they are currently in the final phase of negotiating a renewal of the contract with USPA Global thanks to the great support of
our partners at USPA Global. FIP are also proud to have agreed to endorse the first FIP University Polo Scholarship at Regent’s University in London and hope that this will lead to many more around the world. FIP has been part of the ongoing work to unify the International Rules, working closely with the AAP, the HPA and the USPA. There are still two or three main projects that I would like to progress in my final year, one is to establish some form of FIP Pan African Tournament at a level that will encourage participation by the maximum number of nations. It has proven to be more difficult than I anticipated and I would welcome any assistance on that front. The other major project we are working on is to establish a FIP Ladies International Polo Committee, as this is one of the biggest growth areas in polo – I am told some 40 percent of the registered players in the USPA and growing. Finally, we are pursuing the possibility of getting polo included in future Winter Olympic programmes so there is a lot to do for the future. With new initiatives such as these in the pipeline there is a bright future for the Federation. However, we should not forget the past, those who established and ran the Federation for the first 25 years, Marcos Uranga, Glen Holden, Patrick GuerrandHermes, James Ashton, Eduardo Huergo and Richard Caleel and the ongoing support of many others who each in their turn led to the creation and growth of the Federation we are now proud to serve. FIP has grown, it is now acknowledged by the National Associations as being much more relevant to the World Polo Community and as being a useful vehicle to promote the growth of polo worldwide rather than a stand-alone Federation and it is my firm belief that FIP’s role in the future will grow with everyone’s support… and that the future is bright.
Photograph courtesy of FIP
Firstly we would like to thank Argentina and the AAP as well as their President Eduardo Novillo Astrada for hosting FIP’s 35th Annual General Assembly in Buenos Aires and congratulate Argentina’s team on their recent win in the 11th FIP World Polo Championships in Sydney which gives them an impressive fifth win in 11 championships! On that subject, and not for the first time in FIP’s history, I believe we owe a huge debt of gratitude to the whole of the Australian Polo Community and in particular Peter Higgins and his family, the Australian Polo Federation, the Sydney Polo Club, Anto White, Jim Gilmore, Pat McGuinley and all those in Australia who so generously lent ponies for the recent World Polo Championships. Peter Higgins promised us that it would be spectacular and it certainly was, as all those who attended will confirm. They have set a new standard, which FIP are extremely grateful for. I would also like thank those who have worked so hard to achieve FIP’s standing in the world polo community today. Since we have had a permanent office in Buenos Aires under the direction of a CEO and his staff, the Federation has changed dramatically and I believe is far more relevant to our sport and the nations we represent around the world. So my sincere thanks to our CEO Alejandro Taylor and his team of Felipe and Olivia for all their hard work and dedication. I would also like to thank our Legal Counsel Robert de By who advises FIP on many varied aspects of our legal responsibilities, as well as the Members of the EC and our Treasurer Alberto Marina and his Finance Committee of Lionel Sofia and Richard Caleel, who dedicate a great deal of time and effort to the cause our five Zone Directors for all their dedication and of course, Ricardo Mihanovich for his sterling work with our numerous Ambassador Cups. We must also acknowledge the tremendous contribution of all our FIP Ambassadors around the world. Supporters such as Paul von Gontard who has attended almost every Ambassador Cup and travelled the world to attend the FIP events, Ambassadors like Daniel Garcia, who has run so many Ambassador Cups in Rome that he cannot recall the exact number (and who tells me he will retire next year after 32 years at the Rome Polo Club), Ambassadors such as Farouk Younes who has been the President of the Egyptian Polo Federation and who will retire next year after 12 years in post supporting Egyptian polo. Without such dedicated individuals FIP would not be the organisation it has become today – we thank you all. I believe FIP should be extremely proud of the journey over the past decade or so. Not
Delegates from across the FIP organisation gathered for the Annual Meeting, most notably, Chip Campbell (USPA), Eduardo Novillo Astrada (AAP) & Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers (UK)
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XXXXXXXXX Illuminated Dubai XXXXXXXXXXXXX During the half-time breaks at the Beach Polo Cup 2017 Dubai, spectators were treated to not one, but two different dressage shows, specially created w XXXXXXXXXXXX by the Beach Polo Team and Team Z7. Without doubt, the dressage act on illuminated horses was the highlight. Star rider Ben Atkinson firstly performed as a Roman rider on his four horses and then, and even more animatedly, his equine fire show. As the crowd roared with excitement, Atkinson hung upside down with the other stunt riders for the final circuit of the arena to a standing ovation. w Photography courtesy of Beach Polo Cup 2017
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Polo Times, February 2018
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Feature
Heads You Win…
Photograph by Armis
Heads You Win… Armis revolutionise polo safety equipment
lightweight and comfortable to wear. The bit of the helmet that does the work of protecting your head is the protective liner, made of high-grade polystyrene (like ‘microscopic bubble wrap’) that is protected by a hard carbon-composite shell. On impact, when you fall and land, the helmet does three things. Firstly, the shell diffuses the impact over a large area. Then the liner reduces bruising to the brain by increasing the length of time it takes for the shock to meet your head and you to stop. The bigger the impact the more layers of ‘bubbles’ will burst so it is the helmet liner that collapses, not your head. In the meantime, the MIPS system engages and rotates inside the helmet to absorb the rotational energy transferred to the brain. It is for this reason that if the helmet suffers a severe impact, it should be thrown away and a new one purchased. It is easy to replace a helmet, but impossible to replace a head! The Armis helmet has caught the eyes of top professionals including James Beim, England Captain and James Harper, England 6 Goaler:
Robin Spicer, Designer and Founder of Armis Polo tells us about the Armis Polo helmet and the wider issues of hat safety
I
England Captain, James Beim
Photography by The Art of Polo
t’s time for a change in polo. It’s time to improve the safety aspect of our equipment and Armis is at the forefront of this. Polo helmets have been a topic of debate for many years and Armis has been the first brand to make the step to be signed up to both the BSI Kitemark Scheme as well as fitting MIPS Technology inside. This means the helmet conforms to the British Standard PAS 015 and is subject to routine testing of the helmet and quality controls. This ensures every helmet is made to the same high quality as the first one and every helmet is being produced in the same way. The Armis Polo helmet has MIPS (Multidirectional Impact Protection System) inside which mimics the brain’s own protection system by adding a low friction layer between the head and the helmet. MIPS is based on reality, as when you fall, your head more often hits the ground at an angle, creating a rotational violence that leads to strain in the brain. With the MIPS inside, the helmet can absorb more of that rotational violence, adding better protection than helmets without MIPS. Modern technology has enabled Armis to produce helmets that are very strong,
England 6 Goaler, James Harper
Certification marks, technology and regulations the Armis Helmet meets
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Polo Times, February 2018
The Armis Shadow Black with a Matte Finish
“Polo is getting faster and more dangerous every year. You hear about horrific accidents where people go into comas and sometimes never wake up. Why would you not wear an Armis Helmet? It could save your life. I’m fired up to be involved and to get the younger generation more aware how important a safer helmet is.”
“I have a lot more responsibilities now and a family to look after, so I need to know my head is as safe as it can possibly be whilst playing a highly dangerous sport. It’s common sense to wear the safest helmet on the market, which, in my opinion the Armis certainly is. It has a classic polo look and is very lightweight. I particularly enjoy the changeable inner lining – I change mine every two chukkas to stay fresh. I have also recently had two big falls playing, landing on my head each time. I was wearing the Armis helmet and suffered no effects from the falls. I strongly recommend an Armis helmet, and I’m happy to support a British brand. Armis will continue to endeavour to keep developing and growing as a brand to support this new helmet movement and encourage the polo community to think with their heads. For more information visit www.armispolo.com and follow on Instagram @armispolo www.polotimes.co.uk
Feature
Championing Champions Ever wondered how a high goaler builds his string? Agustín Merlos talks breeding, buying and building champions at the highest level It is easy to sit on the sidelines and think that the endless impeccable high goal ponies fleeting past materialise as if from nowhere for those with a surname synonymous with polo royalty, but the truth is that hard work, commitment and years of experience go in to the creation of a string that is able to take you to the highest level of polo. Agustín ‘Tincho’ Merlos has reached the heady heights of 10 goal status and played in tournaments and Finals around the world and it is his dedication to his horses and the constant work that goes into the development of his string that has allowed him to get there. 22
Polo Times, February 2018
The ponies make up a huge percentage of the game, lending players their speed, agility, bravery and tenacity so that they can play the beautiful game. We spend plenty of time venerating the talent of the players and now it is time to give some airtime to the real heroes of the sport and take a look at a high goal string and what it takes to create one to rival the rest.
Breeding
With so many top level horses out there how do you know which mares will produce good offspring? “There are a couple of things I do that are essential when it comes to breeding. There are qualities a mare I want to breed from
Katie Vickery
reports from Argentina
must have. The most important one is that she has played for many years without injuries. They also have to have the right character, attitude and behaviour. Then you look at the more specific qualities such as aerodynamics, type, mouth and agility. When talking about a good mare, you are talking about a complete horse, one that you would always pick to play, www.polotimes.co.uk
Feature
Tincho’s favourite mare of all time, Virolita was cloned, producing eight offspring
breaking them in. I am very interested to see how they turn out at three-years-old. I think they are going to be my babies for a few years yet. It is a big advance. In my case I cloned Virolita because she is the best horse I have ever played in my life and when she was playing I didn’t get very many embryos out of her because she always got so stressed at the end of the season that she wouldn’t cycle and I couldn’t get much from her. Maybe one embryo a year or nothing. Now she is 17-years-old and the embryo is not of the same quality as before when they are younger, so I cloned thinking that I could breed out of the clones and it would be like breeding out of a younger version of her. This is actually my main reason for cloning her. Obviously I get the babies too and if I can play them and they are awesome that is a bonus, but I know that I won’t run out of that blood. I will try putting them all to different sires to see what comes out and know what produces the best result.”
Buying
Photography by Irina Kazaridi
that is always there for you and is not moody, doesn’t change all the time and is chilled out. Out of a good mare there is very high probability that you will get a good foal.” What does it take to be a good breeder? “Time and passion. When I am not playing, I am with the horses, with the breeding. I didn’t play the Open for two years because I was concentrating on my horses and it worked really well. It helped me to build my string in England and in the States. When you have time it is good to take a step back from playing. I spend a lot of time at my farm La Celina in Trenque Lauquen which is where I do all the breeding, and at La Mariana in Pilar which is the training facility. www.polotimes.co.uk
You need to have passion and knowledge and love it a lot. I do it because I love it and I love building a horse that everyone can enjoy. I am making my name slowly as someone known for breeding nice horses. It will be one of the things that I will do when I am not playing anymore.”
Cloning
You cloned your mare Virolita, how has it all worked out so far? “The cloning was difficult. We tried to clone her for two years and then suddenly we had eight out of the blue. All eight are healthy and sound and are now one-year-old. I am planning to clone a few more, but I would like to see exactly how these ones turn out when it comes to
You have a mix of both homebreds and bought in bloodlines, how do you decide which horses to bring in to your string or breeding programme? “When buying horses from a very young age there are things that you have to know. It needs to tick all the boxes before you even start looking at it and considering it as a prospect. They must be properly built and have good, correct legs. They must have a great attitude and be of a good size. When you ride them, you should be able to feel potential and feel that you can either fix them or make them better. You have to try and test their limits and be able to interact with them in a short space of time. It’s not easy, but once you get to a certain level of horses you have and you like it starts to come a lot more naturally.” How do you know if you have picked the right one? “I always try to buy horses that fit in with my breed and have the same qualities. It can be difficult to add in a new one. You have to be so careful when picking a mare. It’s a natural judgement. I have grown up with a family who do it for a living with my father and my brothers and people around me. I am pretty observant and I read the horses and the trainers and the different breeds, like the quarter horses and the Thoroughbreds, and their qualities. That way you can start to mix the best qualities of everything you see together. It’s a skill that Polo Times, February 2018
23
Feature you learn over a lifetime. I have so much passion for horses and if it is something you love then you learn quickly to read horses well. If that is not your passion, you do something else.” Is there a big difference between bought and homebred? “I usually buy them very young between one and three-years-old so I can put my mark on them in the training. You buy the ones with the qualities you prefer and then you make them as you like them. Obviously the horses that I bred at home are made mine from day 0. I like my horses to be 100 percent tailor-made for me, but if you find one that has all the qualities you like then you should buy it and can probably make it better. Some mares you just find and they have all the qualities you like and you have to buy them.”
Qualities
So what exactly are these qualities that you have spent years discovering and honing in your string? “For me, smaller and stockier horses are always better than taller horses. I think horses should look like staffies. Small and chunky so they have more speed. I nearly always have Thoroughbred mothers with Polo Argentino stallions. I think this is the best combination and the one I’ve had best results with. I like them quite pure with a small mix of Polo Argentino.” What characteristics do you look for in your horses? “In terms of characteristics, what I like most in a horse, and what I have tried to promote in my breeding, is a submissive horse with good manners, a horse that is always there for you and does what you ask it to do. If you want to walk, it walks, if you want to go slowly, it goes slowly, if you want to hit a penalty it takes you to the
ball quietly and straight. Obviously they also need to be fast and have a very good mouth. I like horses with quick acceleration. Being able to go from 0 to 100 in a second is the most important quality a horse can have if you want it for high goal. In general, the horse just needs to be there for you for whatever you ask. A polo horse needs to have the whole package. I want to be able to get on it and play it flat out and then give it to my son or my patron and for it to behave just as well.”
Training
How do you choose who ‘breaks’ which horse? “I always try to match the size of the horse with the correct domador (horse trainer). I have a few that I like to use. Some are tall and some are short so I try to make sure they are the right size for the horses. I like to try different combinations as well. For example, if one of my trainers trained Virolita I try to then use a different one for her daughter. I think it’s interesting to see who is able to bring out the best from different bloodlines.” At what stage of the process do you start to ride them? “I start to get on them when they are about five-years-old. I have the guy who breaks them in and then the trainer who’s called Santiago Allaria who trains them at the beginning, then he passes them to me and I decide what I will do with them. Which ones I will take to the UK or to the States and which ones I will keep in Argentina. So what does this fine tuning involve? “It’s about giving them confidence and the feeling of giving a horse confidence in you is great. It’s very important that the horse itself feels like a winner, that it feels like a champion
every time you take it on to the field. It’s about communication between you and the horse and that’s the only way to create a champion. You need to congratulate it when it does something right, treat it well and let it know when it’s made a mistake. It’s a form of communication that you develop with the horse. You create the champion.”
On the Field
Is there a difference in requirements between seasons? “There are a few horses that I played last season in England that I also played in the Open and they were good, but in England they are amazing. Or the other way around. It all depends on what exactly you need from them. In England, if you have a string which is all powerful and fast, then you should bring some different qualities in, because if it is rainy or on a field that is slower you need different qualities. In England, I like them quieter because you have to spend more time with the ball or make passes or take penalties. In Argentina it is a little more open, you run more so if the mare is a little hot you can still play her anyway.” How do you organise your horse lists? “The English season is tough and there are a lot of matches, but if you manage them properly and you have a big group then you can swap around and not overplay them. If you are short on horses it makes it very difficult for them because you have to repeat them a lot more. I had 16 in the UK last year and I took 14 to Spain. I try to think in advance, if you play them too much one game you have to play another one too much the next time because you will only play that original one half a chukka. You swap them in and out all the time. I can do that with seven or eight horses so that I never purge them or have to run them on an empty tank. Knowing which team you will play against and on which field helps determine which horses you are going to play. I try not to change my mind too much mid game, but it happens quite a lot of course.”
Off the Field
What do you do with those ponies that don’t make it in to your A Team? “I sell anything that isn’t quite up to being in my top string. I have a lot of clients, patrons and players who trust me and I sell them horses or now I sometimes give them to my son. You’ve got to have horses to sell. In the process you start to know where to send which horses. You know that this horse would suit this person or that it would flourish in the States or in Argentina or England. That’s why I ride all the horses from five-years-old. I make my decision about what to do with them based on a lot of hours in the saddle. I have been playing a lot of my own breed. Mostly by the age of seven they are either sold or they are playing with me.” 24
Polo Times, February 2018
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Property Focus
Property market remains strong for 2018 I am pleased to report that as we approach the Spring, agents confirm that the market remains strong. It seems that despite uncertainties in the wider property marketplace, demand remains high for top quality equestrian, country and town properties all over the country which is certainly fantastic news. It does appear that as with the classic car, wine and art market, house hunters are prepared to pay a premium for a quality and sound investment. Should you wish to showcase your property in this section, be it equestrian, country or townhouse, please do get in touch for a discrete, and of course confidential, conversation. Alternatively, please speak to your agent who can organise coverage in the magazine on your behalf. Tel: 01452 730 770/07969 456 214 Email: richard@polotimes.co.uk
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Polo Times, February 2018
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Reports
USA Round Up
All to Play for in America
Nico Pieres scoops the ball out from under Victorino ‘Torito’ Ruiz in the Joe Barry Cup
All the news from across the pond as the season gains traction challenges of the year and the Americans do it in style with Sunday Polo bringing in hundreds of spectators each week to watch the high-quality matches and the ferocious teams doing battle. Katie Vickery Polo Times takes you through the teams reports from Wellington, Florida and tournaments of the Palm Beach season so you can wrap your head around one of the longest and busiest seasons of the circuit. This is one of the only seasons where the t looks set to be another big year at the element of surprise remains a huge part. International Polo Cub, Palm Beach. With so many teams and those 10 goalers The club is following a ‘new year, new spread evenly amongst them, there is no me’ approach, with all re-grassed fields telling who will win and there is nothing making playing conditions even better at the inevitable about the results, making the world-famous club. In late December, early season even more fun to follow. January many of the top players flock to the sunny Floridian haven of Wellington to join The 20 Goal Season in the fray at the International Polo Club, The quality of the 20 goal season has Palm Beach. The winter equestrian capital improved each year and 2018 will see a of the world is perfectly set up to host the season record of 13 teams competing for the 20 and 26 goal seasons that bring players, various coveted titles that make up the lower patrons and spectators together for the first
I 28
Polo Times, February 2018
tier of the high goal season. The tournaments are as follows: Herbie Pennell Cup: 28 – 31 December Starting off the 20 goal season in late December is always the Herbie Pennell Cup. Taking place so soon after the Christmas break there is not much time for players or patrons to have returned from their glamourous winter holiday destinations, therefore the roster is always on the lighter side. This year just two teams took part in this “warm up” tournament with the all pro side Tackeria taking the title after a closerun match against Gillian Johnston’s Coca Cola. A narrow 11-10 win spelled victory for Tackeria and while they have not added their name to the other 20 goal tournaments thus far, we hope to see their team back for some of the later tournaments, led by Herbie Pennell MVP Matt Coppola who started the season with a bang. www.polotimes.co.uk
USA Round Up Joe Barry Cup: 3 – 28 January Up next, the popular Joe Barry Cup with a total of 11 teams. Founded in 2005 and named after Hall of Famer Joe Barry, the successful American player, this tournament marks the true start of the 20 goal season. Some familiar faces graced the scoreboard this year as well as some exciting new additions to boot. At the time of going to press the tournament is well underway and moving in to the finals stage, despite some weather based delays. Rain and cold weather have plagued the start of the tournament causing the already jam-packed schedule to be pressed even further with mid-week games being suspended on a regular basis. We await to see who comes out on top of the first big challenge of the season once the tournament can find a break in the clouds to find its flow. As it stands, the Semi Finalists ready to play for their places in the Final are La Indiana, Coca Cola, Tonkawa and Modere. Ylvisaker Cup: 1 – 25 February Named in honour of William ‘Bill’ Ylvisaker, the man responsible for developing the Wellington area into the high goal winter polo capital of the world, the Ylvisaker Cup is the second of the 20 goal tournaments and this year counts on a record breaking 13 teams. While many of the teams that played the Joe Barry return to play for this title, there are several major line-up changes and some new teams joining the fray which will surely make for an exciting and unpredictable tournament. The Ylvisaker Cup teams are listed below. Iglehart Cup: February 22 – March 10 Carlos Gracida Cup: 11 – 31 March
The Teams Coca Cola (20)
Reports
Audi (20)
A 20 goal season stalwart, Gillian Johnston leads her boys in red from the front. After injury sidelined him in 2017, team favourite Sugar Erskine is back in the saddle and his dyed red boots, hair, beard and kneepads are a sight for sore eyes as he lends his passion to this punchy team, accompanied by the experience and deadly accuracy of Julio Arellano and the fresh, new style of Steve Krueger. Gillian Johnston (2) Sugar Erskine (6) Julio Arellano (8) Steve Krueger (4)
The father and son combo of Marc and Grant Ganzi are joined by two of the most exciting players of recent years to form this new Audi team that joins the 20 goal party with the Ylvisaker Cup. Nic Roldan with his hugely powerful hit and Nico Pieres of Ellerstina glory should be a fantastic combination to watch if they can learn to play in sync. Having recently been raised to 10 in Argentina, Nico Pieres is on fire and will surely prove his worth in this season as the defensive force of this team. Grant Ganzi (2) Marc Ganzi (2) Nic Roldan (8) Nico Pieres (8)
Colorado (20)
Led by Valiente patron Bob Jornayvaz’s talented young son Rob, the team has the potential to do well, especially with the power of the young gun Juan Britos who proved himself in the high goal in Argentina and the UK, combined with the indefatigable Diego Cavanagh who works the field to his advantage. Robert Jornayvaz (1) Juan Britos (7) Diego Cavanagh (8) TBA (4)
La Indiana (20)
Last year’s Joe Barry Cup surprise winners, La Indiana have also undergone a reshuffling. While keeping on US season favourite Jeff Hall, Michael Bickford’s deserved rise to 2 goals has meant they have had to look elsewhere to make up their team. They have brought in the hugely talented Victorino Ruiz, more commonly (and aptly) named ‘Torito’ or ‘Little Bull’, as well as more young blood in the form of Facundo Obregon who played so well last year for Jeff Hildebrand’s Tonkawa side. Michael Bickford (2) Victorino “Toro” Ruiz (5) Facundo Obregon (6) Jeff Hall (7)
GSA (20)
The backbone of this GSA team is formed by 7 goaler Matias Magrini who will be used no doubt to link the powerful defence of Mariano Gonzalez, one of the most solid backs of the roster, with the forward running players. A new line-up will mean it could take time to find their feet in the Ylvisaker, but on individual merit we can expect some great plays from the experienced team. Henry Porter (2) Mariano Gonzalez (7) Matias Magrini (7) TBA (4)
Villa del Lago/ Módere (20)
This Zenni heavy team has all the ingredients for a successful combination. With powerhouse Hilario Ulloa, one cannot go wrong and add to that the forward Agustín Obregon and you’re already on to a winner before you even get to patron/ professional Jared Zenni who plays every one of his 5 goals for this team. Watch this space. Jim Zenni (0) Agustin Obregon (5) Hilario Ulloa (10) Jared Zenni (5)
Postage Stamp Farm (20)
Photography by Hillary Oswald
Christian ‘Magoo’ Laprida hooks Hilario Ulloa at full stretch in the Joe Barry Cup
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The only team to stay true to their line-up of 2017, Postage Stamp Farm are out to beat their performance of last year. With friends and historic teammates Brandon Phillips and Kris Kampsen combined with the polo masterclass that is Mariano Aguerre, they hope to press home the familiarity advantage having gelled well last year. With another year of experience new patron Annabelle Gundlach is gaining confidence and talent and will be one to watch this year. Annabelle Gundlach (0) Brandon Phillips (5) Mariano Aguerre (9) Kris Kampsen (6) Polo Times, February 2018
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Reports
USA Round Up
SD Farms (20)
This is one of the brand-new teams to be added to the 20 goal roster and with patron Sayyu Dantata from Nigeria bringing his young team to this season for the first time, there is all to play for. Widely recognised as one of the best players in Nigeria, Sayyu has chosen three young guns to help him conquer this new territory and we look forward to seeing how they perform. Sayyu Dantata (2) Adam Snow (5) Inaki Laprida (7) Peco Polledo (6)
Pilot (20)
So far this tried and tested recipe of the double Piereses has not proved to be the recipe for success, having yet to win a game at the time of going to press. Facundo and his older brother Gonzalito usually combine perfectly on the field and while Curtis Pilot has done well to start his 20 goal career with this power combo, a team is not made by two players alone and Curtis Pilot and Timmy Dutta will have to work hard if the team is to start living up to expectations. Curtis Pilot (0) Facundo Pieres (10) Gonzalito Pieres (9) Timmy Dutta (1)
TBA (20)
A relatively unknown quantity, this team is new to the 20 goal. The as of yet unnamed team may be new to the US circuit but it consists of two stalwarts of the International Polo Club tournaments, Miguel Novillo Astrada and Carlucho Arellano, as well as local Club Director Stevie Orthwein. We wait to see what this team has in store. Will Johnston (2) Stevie Orthwein (4) Miguel Novillo Astrada (9) Carlucho Arellano (5)
Valiente (20)
Valiente is synonymous with victory in the US polo scene and no wonder, with world number one Adolfo Cambiaso. There to support the superstar is the young and talented Santi Torres who will be working hard out in front with patron Bob Jornayvaz. Who will fill that last coveted Vaiente spot awaits to be seen. Bob Jornayvaz (2) Adolfo Cambiaso (10) Santi Torres (6) TBA (2)
The 26 Goal Season
Following hot on the heels of the busy 20 goal season, the 26 goal season is also known as the US Triple Crown and is made up of
three tournaments: The CV Whitney Cup, The USPA Gold Cup and The US Open. The Butler Handicap was traditionally played at 20 goal level, but was raised to 26 goal for the first time in 2017. Thus it stands apart from the Triple Crown series with the Final being played just before the US Open. While we wait for confirmation on the full team list for the 26 goal season, it is common knowledge that for the first time in competitive polo’s history world numbers one and two will be playing together in what will surely prove to be an indomitable force of polo power. La Dolfina and Ellerstina rivals Adolfo Cambiaso and Facundo Pieres are playing together for Bob Jornayvaz’s Valiente team as Facundo’s former US patron Steve Van Andel has pulled out of the 26 goal. This in itself will be a spectacle not to be missed as these two players, so often seen on opposing sides of the great finals of the worldwide polo circuit play together for the first time. For now it is looking like the Ganzis will put up Flexjet and Audi teams to rival the current US Open title holders as well as rumours of a Zenni led Modere team. All will reveal itself in due course and until then there is plenty to look forward to and keep you on your toes with the 20 goal. For a full list of USA high goal fixtures, please turn to our What’s On pages.
Tonkawa (20)
Once again the talented and solid Guillermo ‘Sapo’ Caset will be donning the green shirt of Tonkawa as he joins patron Jeff Hildebrand on the field. This year he will be backed up by Julian de Lusarreta who burst onto the high goal scene a couple of years ago and has earned his place as a fan favourite ever since. This will be an interesting pairing to watch. Sterling Giannico cannot relax however and will be working hard to help this combination play to their fullest. Jeff Hildebrand (0) Julian de Lusarreta (7) Guillermo ‘Sapo’ Caset (10) Sterling Giannico (3)
Travieso (20)
The Calle family team is back once again with Sebastian Merlos ready to play his part in what could be a very fruitful season. Quiet and disciplined Tomás Garcia del Rio will be working tirelessly to combine the force of middle brother Merlos with the father, son combo of Tony and Teo. Tony Calle (3) Teo Calle (1) Sebastian Merlos (9) Tomás Garcia del Rio (7) Joe Barry Cup action as Argentine superstars Hilario Ulloa and Diego Cavanagh battle for the ball
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Polo Times, February 2018
www.polotimes.co.uk
What about playing polo in Switzerland ?
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Beach Polo Cup Dubai
Photograph courtesy of Beach Polo Cup Dubai
Reports
Thousands gathered for the highlight of the Dubai polo season, the Beach Polo Cup Dubai 2017
Beach Polo Cup Dubai 2017
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Team Nissan LEAF light up the Dubai skyline
s the world prepared for the festive period, polo aficionados from the four corners of the world gathered at the Dubai Marina for one of the most prestigious sporting events in the Dubai polo calendar. Under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, four teams were invited to take part in the Beach Polo Cup Dubai 2017 between 14 – 15 December, set in the atmospheric Marina, surrounded by the lightened skyscrapers of the Dubai skyline. On the first day of the tournament Team HILLS Advertising met Team Royal Pearls – the latter taking the early lead putting the pressure on continuously. From the second chukka, the match developed into a very tight affair. Team Royal Pearls progressed to the Final with a 9-8 victory over their rivals. The second spot in the Finals was snapped up by Team Nissan LEAF with ease as they controlled the game against Team Art Marine from the first throw-in. Rashed Albwardy enabled Team Nissan LEAF to take the lead from the off and ultimately secured their spot in the Final with a 6-3 score. Alongside the thrilling polo, the thousandsstrong crowd were treated to an artistic equine 32
Polo Times, February 2018
demonstration from dressage to traditional riding, as well as a spectacular lightshow. As Team Nissan LEAF and Team Royal Pearls came together for the Final of the Beach Polo Cup Dubai 2017, it was clear from the off who would control the play. Though Team Royal Pearls started the match with a goal from Lucas Labat, Team Nissan LEAF took the lead from then on and didn’t give away their advantage. By the third chukka, Team Nissan LEAF were in the lead 8-3 following a flurry of goals from both sides. As the Final came to a close, Piero Dillier, Moritz Gädeke and Labat fought passionately to increase their scorecard, but as the final bell sounded, Team Nissan LEAF took home the coveted trophy with a 9-6 win. “Once again Gaby and Sam Katiela have raised the bar, making the Beach Polo Cup Dubai 2017 an exceptional and amazing experience”, said commentator Jan-Erik Franck. “The atmosphere in the stands and the action on the field was electrifying and enjoyed by everyone. For any polo aficionado, the ‘must see’ Team Nissan LEAF, deserved to win, but Team Royal Pearls were a worthy opposition and Finalist.”
14 15 DE
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Where: The Marina, Dubai
The Beach Polo Cup Dubai 2017 Final Teams:
Team Nissan LEAF: Rashid Albwardy Tariq Albwardy Matias Machado
Team Royal Pearls: Piero Dillier Moritz Gaedeke Lucas Labat (Reserve Andreas Bihrer)
Following the match, tournament organisers Gaby and Sam Katiela told us, “It was an amazing feeling for both of us to receive so many compliments and beautiful smiles from all our guests, supporters, sponsors and players. We look forward to many more to come. It proves again that passionate hard work, attention to detail and care in all parts with everybody pays off. The surprise visit of HH Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum made it all just perfect.” This next Beach Polo Cup Dubai is due to take place in December 2018. www.polotimes.co.uk
Photograph by Lee-Anne Robertson Photography
Strong play from Ali Paterson helped the Flannels England side ride to victory in South Africa
United Kingdom beat South Africa Victory in Plettenberg Bay
O
reports from South Africa
n 29 December, a team from the UK was invited to play in an international Test Match against South Africa in Plettenberg Bay. The team was formed by the HPA around Fred Horn and Tim Ward who were already playing out in South Africa at the time. 3 goaler, Ali Paterson and myself then flew out to South Africa to join them and begin fusing our team together during extensive practices. I had been lucky enough to play with Fred Horn a number of times over the last few years, whilst playing for Chris and Claire Mathias’s team, Clarita. Prior to this I had also played a few times with Ali Paterson, the last time during the annual Snow Polo
www.polotimes.co.uk
Where: Plettenberg Bay, South Africa Photograph courtesy of the HPA
George Meyrick
tournament in Tianjin, China. Tim Ward was the only team member who was new to me, but he fitted into the line-up exceedingly well. I felt that all three played superbly on the day and I enjoyed the game a lot. We obtained an early lead against the South African team, which we managed to hold onto until the end of the match, despite strong plays from the South African side. Through honed team plays and excellent communication, we came out the victors 6-5, a great score considering how new our line-up was. The game was played at the Kurland Park in Plettenberg Bay on a great afternoon in front of a buzzing crowd of 3,000 spectators. It was an amazing day and a wonderful stay in South Africa. Plettenberg Bay is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful locations in the world to play polo and I am really grateful to everyone over there who made it possible for us to play and for all those who supplied us horses for the duration. I know that lending horses to visiting teams is never an easy thing to do. We look forward to our next adventure to South Africa.
29 DE
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United Kingdom beat South Africa in the December Test Match
United Kingdom (14) George Meyrick (6) Fred Horn (3) Tim Ward (2) Ali Paterson (3)
South Africa (16) Chris Mackenzie (7) Dirk Van Reenen (5) Ben Crowe (3) Ryan Robertson (1)
Polo Times, February 2018
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Reports
Beach Polo World Cup, Miami
Beach Polo World Cup Miami W
Fun, sun, glamour and great polo action on the sand in Miami hen you think of Florida you think of year-round sunshine, crystal clear waters and for some of us, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson running up a beach in Baywatch. But, between 4 – 7 January a new icon was in town. The Beach Polo World Cup returned to Miami Beach after a 10-year absence and was greeted with unparalleled excitement. The four-day event was bigger and better than ever before, with a new layout, daily matches and some of the best polo players from across the globe. Six teams competed throughout the weekend with players such as USA international Nic Roldan, Ricardo Mansur, Snow Polo World Cup regular Rommy Gianni and Argentine Juan Bollini taking to the sand. 34
Polo Times, February 2018
On Friday 4 January, the matches got underway. After three tight games both Riley Ganzi’s La Martina and Marc Ganzi’s Macallan came out the obvious leaders in the competition with the greatest goal difference against their rivals. Going into the second day of qualifying matches, the two teams held their nerve, beating their second day competitors by 5 goals and 3½ respectively. Without doubt, there were to be no other teams even close to competing in the Final and at 3.15pm on Sunday 7 January it all came to a father vs daughter finale. From the word go, both teams were evenly matched. Both Juan Bollini for La Martina and Nic Roldan for Macallan have extensive experience on sand and with the more than
able assistance of their teammates, they battled it out for the win. With La Martina trailing by half a goal in the final chukka, teenager Riley Ganzi scored the winning goal for La Martina, with just 30 seconds left on the clock. With this, Riley, Bollini and 5 goal teammate Jesse Bray won the Beach Polo World Cup 2018, 5-4½, with a three-match winning streak and 18 goals scored throughout the tournament. Roldan was presented with the Most Valuable Player Award after scoring three goals and wowing the crown with his stick skills, continuously bouncing the ball off his stick and ultimately scoring three goals. Centarous, played by Bollini and owned by Santa Rita Polo Farm was presented with the Karma Best Playing Pony Rug. www.polotimes.co.uk
Reports
Photograph by Seth Browarnik/WorldRedEye
Beach Polo World Cup, Miami
La Martina took home the title of the Beach Polo World Cup 2018
Where: Miami Beach, Florida
www.polotimes.co.uk
JAN
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BPP Centarous, owned by Santa Rita Polo Farm & played by Juan Bollini
Photograph by Daniel Oyvetsky
The tournament also hosted the Bal Harbour Village Women’s Cup on Saturday afternoon, featuring the Bal Harbour Village team and the Peoples From Barbados team as well as a charity match on Sunday to support the Beach Polo’s official charity partner, The Bass Musuem. Event organiser, Tito Gaundenzi, said after the match, “We couldn’t be more excited to see our vision come to fruition with the return of the Beach Polo World Cup. After five years of tireless work, we are thrilled to have reintroduced the event in its proper form and look forward to many successful years to come!” The world’s largest beach polo tournament is set to return to the white sands of Miami Beach in early 2019.
Photograph by Daniel Oyvetsky
Teams came together in the revival of the Beach Polo World Cup 2018 on Miami Beach
4
FINA
Nic Roldan was awarded the Most Valuable Player Award following his outstanding play for Macallan
The Beach Polo World Cup 2018 Final Teams: Macallan (12) La Martina (13) Sarah Siegel Magness (1) Riley Ganzi (1) Marc Ganzi (3) Jesse Bray (5) Nic Roldan (8) Juan Bollini (7)
MVP Nic Roldan
Polo Times, February 2018
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Reports
Playnation Arena Polo Masters, All England Polo Club
Howard Smith controls the play for Playnation
The Playnation Arena Polo Masters 2018 F Playnation hold high the trophy at AEPC or the second year running, the Playnation Arena Polo Masters was played under the same rules as snow polo, making it an arena polo tournament with a twist! Players compete off their grass handicap, plus one goal and this year, the Masters was played off a maximum 9 goal handicap. These alternative rules also dictate that players are not allowed to ‘turn’, therefore opening up the run of play, making for some very fast and accessible arena polo with a lot less whistle. Title sponsor Playnation invited three teams to take part in the tournament, with players travelling from across the UK to take part in the event, as well as fielding a team themselves. Following a successful day of qualifiers on Saturday, Playnation and Astra made it through to the Final having both defeated their rivals by the largest goal difference the day before. After the very tightly played Subsidiary Final, which saw Gamestec come out victorious against Bell Fruit Games, Playnation and Astra took to the arena for the Final.
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The match was a very close affair from the first whistle with Playnation taking the early lead. By the end of the first half the scoreboard read 9-3 in the host team’s favour, with all to play for. Following what was obviously a very stern team talk in the break, Astra’s two professionals, Tom Morley and Pedro De Lamare began to focus intently, creating some perfect team plays, ultimately enabling Morley to notch up four very quick goals in the third chukka, bringing the scores to 11-8 still in Playnation’s favour. Howard Smith and Sebastian Dawnay really began to show their arena prowess in the fourth and final chukka, notching up three goals to push the score even further out of Astra’s reach.
But Astra weren’t finished just yet, taking back possession following some expertly taken penalties by Simon Arber and scoring four further goals in response to a barrage of goals from Dawnay to bring the trophy within reach. But, with John Bunn and Smith closing the back door, Astra ran out of time to close the gap, leaving Playnation in the winning seat with a 15-12 final score. After the match, teams, friends and families were treated to a Sunday roast in the Clubhouse. Host team Playnation beat Astra to be crowned 2018 Playnation Arena Masters 2018 champions
www.polotimes.co.uk
Playnation Arena Polo Masters, All England Polo Club
Reports
For social images of the event, please turn to our Sidelines pages.
13 14
Where: The All England Polo Club, Hickstead, UK
JAN
JAN
The Playnation Arena Polo Masters Final Teams:
Photography by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
Astra (9) Simon Arber (1) Pedro De Lamare (3) Tom Morley (5)
Playnation (8) John Bunn (1) Howard Smith (3) Seb Dawnay (4)
Chukka Scores 4-2, 9-3, 11-8 & 15-12 to Playnation Test Match 2018 Polo Times_Layout 1 11/01/2018 15:12 Page 1
Tom Morley slows down the play in the Final of the 2018 Playnation Arena Polo Masters Final
Saturday 3 March 2018B ADMISSION £5, LUNCH £49.50
O TIC OK KE NO TS W
10.30am Gates Open 11.30am 12 Goal Challenge 1.30pm Test Match for the Bryan Morrison Trophy England v USA 4.00pm Post Match Lunch
ARENA POLO TEST MATCH
www.hickstead.co.uk www.polotimes.co.uk
megan@hickstead.co.uk
01273 834315
Polo Times, February 2018
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Reports
16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel Kicks Bendura Bank bag the silverware at the 16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel
Jen Liggins
reports from Austria
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www.polotimes.co.uk
Reports
The victorious Bendura Bank team with Dr. Andreas Insam
Snow polo sees the Wilder Kaiser mountains at their very best – buzzing with international players, thrilling team dynamics and, most importantly, fast-paced polo. Between 11 – 14 January, the best international snow polo players made their way to the quintessential alpine resort of Kitzbühel for the 16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel, and what a weekend it was! Following two days of exciting, on the edge of your seat play from the six participating teams, host team Bendura Bank were set to come up against the ‘Red Devils’, Engel & www.polotimes.co.uk
Völkers, in the Final. Earlier in the day, Polo Club Kitzbühel had defeated Bernd Gruber in the Engel & Völkers Cup and Corum had taken third place, beating Maserati in the Kitzbühel Country Club Cup. Bendura Bank and Engel & Völkers had actually already played each other on the Friday with Engel & Völkers coming out the victors, so it was a real match of contention from the off. Having now sorted their pony list, following rental pony issues, Bendura Bank came out with fire in their bellies. Prior to the first throw-in, a minute’s
Photography Reinhardt & Sommer Photography
Alejandro Novillo Astrada controlled the play in the 16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel Final from the word go
silence was held in honour of Polo Club Kitzbühel member Antonio d’Aurelio. The top scorer of the tournament, Alejandro Novillo Astrada, fresh from a resounding win in Saturday’s match against Maserati came out fighting with event organiser Tito Gaudenzi and Melissa Ganzi, ably supporting his plays. Engel & Völkers had their work cut out, as the match became an Argentine extravaganza seeing Novillo Astrada take on his direct opponent, Adrian Laplacette Jr, with force and as play progressed it became evident who the leading team were going to be. Novillo Astrada was on fire, taking part in every play and expertly guiding the ball around the competition. Following two skilfully gained penalties from Bendura Bank Captain Ganzi, Novillo Astrada optimised the play to their advantage, reaching a narrow 4-3½ lead at the half-time break. In the heat of battle, tensions were high, with all to play for. On multiple occasions, umpire Mark Holmes had to calm both the play and the players down, as the score lead interchanged between the two teams. The third chukka saw even more power from the Bendura Bank side, as they extended their lead, but Engel & Völkers weren’t done yet, answering Bendura Bank’s goals and even taking the lead by a half goal, 6½-6 as the chukka closed. Polo Times, February 2018
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Reports
Players from across the world gathered for the 16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel
Chukka Scores: 1-2½, 4-3½, 6-6½ & 10-6½ to Bendura Bank As the players rode on for the fourth and final period, it was all to play for on the snow in Kitzbühel. Novillo Astrada answered his Captain’s calls to dominate the final plays, with truly exceptional style, scoring three goals in as many minutes. The final play of the afternoon was a thing of beauty, as Ganzi hit the ball upfield to a tentatively waiting Novillo Astrada, strongly defended by Laplacette Jr, the crowd held their breath. Expertly manoeuvring his pony to take control of the ball, Novillo Astrada delicately placed it through the posts from under his pony’s neck, winning the 16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Final with a final score of 10-6½ on the final bell for not only a jubilant team, but an absolutely ecstatic crowd. Bendura Bank Captain, Melissa Ganzi, said after the match, “It was a really exciting, amazing victory today. We’re really happy to win and so proud of our ‘Top-Scorer’ Alejandro Novillo Astrada. After Kitzbühel we are off to St. Moritz in two weeks. It would be amazing to make it two in a row, but you never know in polo. We’ve finally sorted a really strong pony list and we’re hoping to get some more for St. Moritz, so watch this space!” Event organiser and Bendura Bank back Tito Gaudenzi said after the Final, “This is my second win in 16 years. We’ve been in the Final before, but never made it through. It feels amazing – Melissa has brought her amazing organisation with her and it couldn’t get any better, to come here and win first time. Now we have to go to St. Moritz and win – the bar is up there! Unlike other years we have had the time to prepare with the horses and our line-up so we’ll see what magic we can make!” For social images of the event, please turn to our Sidelines pages. 40
Polo Times, February 2018
FINA
1 4 1 1 JAN
Where: Kitzbühel, Austria
Umpire: Mark Holmes
Commentator: ‘The Voice of Polo’ Jan-Erik Franck
Top Goal Scorer of the Tournament: Alejandro Novillo Astrada
BPP
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JAN
MVP
Carolina, owned by Kutlay Yaprak and played by Adrian Laplacette Jr
Timekeeper: Christian Dunkelberg
Handicaps – Outdoor handicaps + 1 are used for snow polo, unless the player’s arena handicap is higher, in which case the arena handicap is used.
Alejandro Novillo Astrada “It feels amazing to win the tournament, Melissa and Tito played great – they really were the key to our win today. It would be great to come back next year. It’s a wonderful tournament with great people in a beautiful setting. What more could you want!”
www.polotimes.co.uk
Reports
16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel Tournament Action at a Glance
The 16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Teams: Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2018 11. Januar - 14. Januar 2018
Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2018 11. Januar - 14. Januar 2018
BENDURA BANK SNOW POLO WORLD CUP KITZBÜHEL 2018
Friday 12 January Corum defeated Polo Club Kitzbühel, 8½-4 Engel & Völkers defeated Bendura Bank, 6½-5 Maserati defeated Bernd Gruber, 11-7½
Saturday 13 January Polo Club Kitzbühel defeated Bernd Gruber, 9-7½ Bendura Bank defeated Maserati, 10-4½ Engel & Völkers defeated Corum, 8-6½
Sunday 14 January Engel & Völkers Cup Polo Club Kitzbühel defeated Bernd Gruber, 11-8½ Kitzbühel Country Club Cup (Subsidiary Final) Corum defeated Maserati, 10½-9 16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel (Final) Bendura Bank defeated Engel & Völkers, 10-6½
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BENDURA BANK SNOW POLO WORLD CUP KITZBÜHEL 2018
Bendura Bank (12) Melissa Ganzi (1) Alejandro Novillo Astrada (8) Tito Gaudenzi (3)
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3
Corum (9) Philip Sommer (2) Lukas Sdrenka (3) Patrick Maleitzke (4)
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POLO TEAM
POLO TEAM
Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2018 11. Januar - 14. Januar 2018
Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2018 11. Januar - 14. Januar 2018
BENDURA BANK SNOW POLO WORLD CUP KITZBÜHEL 2018
3
Engel & Völkers (11) Kutlay Yaprak (0) Augustin Kronhaus (4) AdrianPOLOLaplacette Jr (7) TEAM
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3
Bernd Gruber (9) Steffi von Pock (1) Marty van Scherpenzeel (2) Eduardo Anca (6) POLO TEAM
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Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2018 11. Januar - 14. Januar 2018
Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2018 11. Januar - 14. Januar 2018
BENDURA BANK SNOW POLO WORLD CUP KITZBÜHEL 2018
BENDURA BANK SNOW POLO WORLD CUP KITZBÜHEL 2018
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Maserati (10) Marc Aberle (1) Caspar Crasemann (4) Thomas Winter (5)
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LO CLUB PO
EST 2003
KI
TZBÜHEL
Polo Club Kitzbühel (12) Sebastian Schneberger (2) Hector Monserrat (4) Valentin Novillo Astrada (6)
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POLO TEAM
POLO TEAM
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Polo Times, February 2018
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Reports
Royal Pahang Emerge Victorious
Dario Musso fights Tomasito Fernández Llorente for possession
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n a warm Saturday afternoon, the highlight of the Thai polo season took place at the Thai Polo & Equestrian Club in Pattaya, Thailand. The Finals of the 2018 Thai Polo Open saw crowds of spectators and players gather in the South East Asian polo capital for a day of fast-paced and thrilling polo. Earlier in the qualifying rounds, competition had been fierce, with six teams entered in the 14 goal competition. HH Tengku Amir and HH Tengku Muhammad brought their Royal Pahang team to Pattaya for the region’s most exciting tournament. Having gone home with little more than memories for over a decade, this year their approach was different – improved teamwork, extensive practice and perfected horsepower. From the first match the hard work was clear – both the princes played
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Polo Times, February 2018
extremely well with the expert pairing of Tomás Gandara and recently raised 7 goal Tomasito Fernández Llorente bringing up the rear. As the teams lined up for the first throwin of the Final, tensions were high, with both teams eager to take the early advantage. But, advantage just wasn’t on the cards for Axus. Despite valiant attempts to steal the ball, Axus were constantly on the back foot. Royal Pahang were using all four players to ride circles around Brian Xu’s team. HH Tengku Muhammad had definitely had his Cheerios that morning, as he played the game of his life, forcing Axus to continuously commit a player to him in defence. Axus had their fair share of chances, without fruition and with both teams franticly moving the ball from end to end, making multiple attempts on goal, the play broke for half-time, with
the might of the Malaysians holding an enormous 6-1½ lead. As Royal Pahang became comfortable in their stride, they gave away goals, enabling Axus to narrow the scores, but even with three goals in the final chukka, the cavernous gap between the scores was too great to overcome and Royal Pahang lifted high the trophy with a 6-4½ victory. 2017 joint winner La Familia came up against rivals Fast Fish in the Subsidiary Final, making strong use of their excellent horsepower to take the match 9-5. In a shake-up to the usual rankings, 2017 joint winners Thai Polo and 2016 winners 22BR failed to qualify for the Semi Finals, instead contesting for fifth and sixth place, which ultimately ended in a 2-2 draw. In recent years, the Thai Polo team has dominated the Thai Polo Open, but for the www.polotimes.co.uk
Thai Polo Open 2018, Thai Polo & Equestrian Club
Reports
Photography by Dominic James | www.dominic-james.com
All the teams gathered to celebrate another successful Thai Polo Open
FINA
10 20 JAN
Umpires: Daniel Boudou & Juan José Díaz Musso
JAN
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MVP Tomás Gándara
Where: Thai Polo & Equestrian Club, Thailand
The 2018 Thai Polo Open Final Teams: Royal Pahang (13): Axus (12): HH Tengku Muhammad (0) Brian Xu (0) HH Tengku Amir Nasser (1) Damián Marcos (3) Tomasito Fernández Llorente (7) Diego Gómez (3) Tomás Gándara (5) Dario Musso (6)
BPP After thirteen years Royal Pahang won the 2018 Thai Polo Open title
Tinta, owned by Brian Xu and played by Dario Musso
first time in recent history, they found themselves as spectators in this year’s Final. This year’s competition was extremely tough with no qualifying game won by more than two goals and League Two ultimately decided by a penalty shoot-out. These results are testament to the increased popularity and standard of the Thai Polo Open as well as the emphasis on healthy competition. HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana was on hand to witness this spectacular event and also treated spectators to a rare glimpse of one of her beautiful grey competitive eventers. For social images of the event, please turn to our Sidelines pages.
www.polotimes.co.uk
Polo Times, February 2018
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Reports
HPA New Year National Club Championships, RCBPC
A Little Rain Won’t Ruin My Day! Print on Demand and Four Quarters dominate HPA New Year 6 and 15 Goal Nationals
I
Jen Liggins
reports from Berkshire
n true British form, despite the incessant rain, a plethora of loyal spectators gathered at The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club for the Finals of the HPA New Year National Club Championships at 6 Goal and 15 Goal level. In the first Final of the day, it was youth versus family as local team Cool Hooves Polo came up against the Cork family’s Print on Demand. To say this match was a close called event would be a huge understatement. As the torrent of rain and sleet descended on the teams’ first throw-in, the fraught and fast play got underway. The first chukka was spent working out where to be and who was the most at risk of scoring. By the end of the second chukka, the Cool Hooves Polo young bloods were sticking to their players like glue, aware that if they let Josh Cork alone for even a second, he would fire up towards the goal. The Polo Magazine’s Most Valuable Player, Saskia Meadows, following a three-year break from the arena, had a baptism of fire, as she and her team mates, Nell Jacob and James Mann, attempted to scupper the Corks’ chances on goal. Despite Cool Hooves Polo’s best efforts, Print on Demand were narrowly leading 8-7 at half-time, with all to play for. The match continued on this even keel for its entirety, with Cool Hooves Polo taking the lead 14-12 at the beginning of the fourth, but as if by magic, and to the fury of father Phil Meadows in the stands, small mistakes from the Cool Hooves Polo team became penalty wins for Print on Demand in the final moments of the match. With the scores at 16-16, it looked like an extra chukka was on the cards, but Andy Cork managed to fire through a backhand neck-shot with just 10 seconds on the clock to win the game 17-16. 2017 winners, Four Quarters, were the next to take to the sodden arena against their 2018 rivals, Tchogan. Despite the worsening weather, both teams came out with fire in their 44
Polo Times, February 2018
Play was tense at the 2018 HPA New Year National Club Championships at RCBPC
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HPA New Year National Club Championships, RCBPC bellies, quickly notching up goal after goal on the scoreboard. Tchogan’s Howard Smith and Sebastian Dawnay seemed the perfect pairing, as they rocketed up and down the arena, scoring four quick goals in the first chukka. But, their initial fervour became more of a mêlée by half-time, as Four Quarters found their stride. By half-time, Richard Tyrone had worked his usual magic, bringing the scores to 8-8. As the second half began, Tchogan began to falter and the play became more fraught. Tyrone and Tom Morley took advantage, scoring three goals in as many minutes, with only one in response from
Reports
Tchogan. As the minutes wound down in the final chukka, Tchogan tried to find the break, but Four Quarters would not budge an inch. Following another spurt of goals from Tyrone and Morley, Four Quarters took home the title and the coveted silverware for another year, the resounding winners, 17-11. For social images of the event, please Where: The Royal turn to our Sidelines pages County of Berkshire FIN Polo Club
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5 21 JAN
Photography by Cymon Skinner Photography
JAN
The 6 Goal HPA New Year National Club Championships Final Teams: Cool Hooves Polo (6): Print on Demand (5): Saskia Meadows (2) Ollie Cork (2) Nell Jacob (2) Josh Cork (3) James Mann (2) Andy Cork (0)
The 15 Goal HPA New Year National Club Championships Final Teams: Four Quarters (15): Tchogan (15): Simon Arber (1) Heiko Voelker (2) Tom Morley (6) Howard Smith (6) Richard Tyrone (8) Sebastian Dawnay (7)
Chukka scores: 4-5, 8-7, 12-13 & 17-16 to Print on Demand
Chukka scores: 4-5, 8-8, 13-9 & 17-11 to Four Quarters
BPP Umpires: Tim Bown & Howard Smith
MVP
Tute, owned by Marcus Cork & played by Josh Cork
Saskia Meadows
BPP Umpires: Marcus Hancock & Simon McDonald
Rotini, owned & played by Richard Tyrone
MVP
Tom Morley
To read more about Polo Times Best Playing Ponies Tute & Rotini, turn to our Pony Power pages www.polotimes.co.uk
Polo Times, February 2018
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Your Club News from Home and Abroad
Aspen Valley Polo Club
Empire Polo Club
Photograph courtesy of Empire Polo Club
The Empire Polo Club, in California has announced the beginning of its 2018 season. On Sunday 7 January two matches were played to signal a new year and a new season, a form which will be followed until 1 April. Admission to Sunday polo is free with a $20 parking fee. Tailgating is welcome along the sidelines with spectators allowed to bring their own food and beverages into the General Admission area. For more information, please visit the Club’s website www.empirepoloevents.com
Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club
Photograph courtesy of Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club
Play in the opening tournament of the 2018 Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club season, the 2018 President’s Polo Cup ended on Friday 19 January with the long awaited Final. Four teams of players from across the globe had gathered at the Abu Dhabi based Club for two weeks of thrilling 18 goal polo. Going into the Final, ADS Securities were leading the charge, but in true polo style, rivals Abu Dhabi Polo Team took control of the Final and with it the coveted trophy. The 2018 President’s Polo Cup Finals Teams: ADS Securities (18): Amin Badr El Din (0), James Oliver (2), Guillermo Terrera (8) & Facundo Sola (8) Abu Dhabi Polo Team (18): Faris Al Yabhouni (0), Santiago Gomez Romero (3), Santiago Cernadas (6) & Alfredo Cappella Barabucci (9)
Cowdray Park Polo Club Photography courtesy of Cowdray Park Polo Club
In the opening game of the 2018 winter season, Dutta Corp defeated Newport 12-8 in the Aspen Valley Cup 8 Goal qualifiers. 21-year-old Lucas Diaz Alberdi led the scoreboard with five goals followed by Timmy Dutta and Nico Diaz Alberdi with three goals apiece. The tournament qualifiers will continue throughout January with the Final falling at the end of the month. For more information, please visit the Club’s website www.aspenvalleypoloclub.com
Club Focus
In the last month, Chairman Peter Barfoot has stepped down and General Manager Matt Petersen has resigned
Cowdray Park Polo Club has announced the standing down of its Chairman, Peter Barfoot. Peter took on the Chairmanship with great enthusiasm at the beginning of the 2014 season, but in July 2016 suffered a life-changing fall during a match. He made a miraculous and inspirational recovery, and endeavoured to take up the reins of chairing the Committee in record time considering the extent of his injuries. However, Peter has now realised there is still some way to go for a full recovery and is understandably keen to put his family and business first. As a thoroughly committed Chairman who gave his all, he feels the role has now become too big a task. On behalf of Viscount Cowdray, the Club’s President, Jonathan Russell CEO of the Cowdray Estate, will temporarily assume the position of Club Chairman until such time a suitable successor has been identified and recruited. In other news, the Club announced the resignation of General Manager Matt Petersen on Monday 15 January. He had held the position since January 2017. Jonathan Russell, CEO of the Cowdray Estate and acting Chairman of the Club said, “Matt has been an enthusiastic and forwardlooking GM. We thank him for the contribution he has made to Cowdray during the past 12 months, especially in overseeing the signing of contracts with King Power International Group as the new title sponsor of the Gold Cup. We wish Matt and his wife Emma well in their future plans.”
International Polo Club It has been a surprisingly wet and soggy start to the American season in Florida, but despite the torrents of rain, the Herbie Pennell Cup came to a head on New Year’s Eve with Tackeria coming out the victors after beating Coca-Cola 7-2. As we go to press, the Final of the Joe Barry is underway. For a full report from Wellington, Florida, please turn to our American Round-Up on page 28.
Abu Dhabi won the 2018 President’s Polo Cup in Abu Dhabi
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Polo Times, February 2018
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Your Club News from Home and Abroad
With the winter SUPA Nationals just around the corner, Team Reading are avidly training to give the Reading University Polo Team is now other teams a run for their proudly supported by Polo Times, money. They have a strong British Polo Gin & Cool Hooves Polo team selection this year, and with their newly sponsored team shirts, kindly supported by Polo Times, British Polo Gin and Cool Hooves Polo, they aim to stand out from the crowd not only in the pony lines, but also on the field. Updates from the winter SUPA Nationals will follow in an upcoming issue of Polo Times.
Photograph courtesy of Reading University Polo Club
Reading University Polo Club
Taunton Vale Polo Club Members and Non-Members are advised that the contact email address for Taunton Vale Polo Club has changed to nhs.wheelers@gmail.com The phone number and address remain unchanged.
Westcroft Park Polo Club The 2017 Test Match between Flannels England and the Rest of the World, due to be played in December, was cancelled due to poor weather.
Rugby Polo Club The Club’s first December tournament, the December T-Bone Challenge had a great turnout. Offchurch Polo Club won the League One tournament, whilst The Muppets won League Two. On Saturday 10 December, the annual Midlands Polo Festival began play at Rugby Polo Club at -2, 4 and 8 goal levels. Unfortunately, due to heavy snowfall play was cancelled, but in true polo style, the Christmas party still went ahead, with fun had by all.
Photograph courtesy of Rugby Polo Club
Club Focus
Offchurch Polo Club won the December T-Bone Challenge
Rutland Polo Club Rutland Polo Club would like to invite members for a social gathering at The Blue Ball, Braunston, near Oakham on Thursday 22 February 2018 at 7pm. The event is free to attend with canapés provided by Emmie and there will be a paid bar. For more information, please contact the Club at polomanager@rutlandpoloclub.co.uk The annual AGM date has been confirmed for 18 March at 6pm. The meeting will be held at The Falcon Hotel in Uppingham and a confirmation and papers will be sent to members nearer the time. The social highlight of the summer will take place at the Rutland Agricultural Society Showground, near Oakham, and will take place the same weekend as The Rutland Cup and The Twidale Trophy. Most importantly, the Club is currently on the lookout for The Millennium Umpiring Trophy. Its last known whereabouts was in 2011, so if anyone knows anything more, please can they contact the Club on polomanager@rutlandpoloclub.co.uk The 2018 tournament dates have now been confirmed and can be found on the Rutland Polo Club website. The Club would also like to make friends aware of the passing of Trevor North, a big supporter of polo in the Midlands and the former owner of Ranksboro Polo Club. Trevor’s funeral took place at Asfordby Church, Leicestershire on 21 December.
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HACKETT Army Tour India
Military
Photography by Sam Churchill Photography
Devrient, Drummond-Moray, Fry & Hamilton represented the HACKETT Army team during the December 2017 India tour
The HACKETT Army team overcame difficult competition to win two out of three tour tournaments in India
HACKETT Army Tour India As a plane took off from soggy London Heathrow on Tuesday 5 December, a HACKETT Army team had three matches ahead of them in the heat of India, for their seventh consecutive tour to the region. The first few days were spent in Delhi, where Major General Robert Talbot-Rice, Chairman of the APOLOA, joined the team. After a tour of Delhi and a practice session at the Gurgaon Polo and Golf Club, the first match took place on Friday 8 December for the Peninsular Cup at the British High Commissioner’s Polo Day, sponsored by Peninsular Productions. A crowd of approximately 400 turned up to watch an American-style tournament with the HACKETT Army Team playing against India and South Africa, at a 3 goal level. Robert Talbot-Rice took his place in the Army Team and after two chukkas, and a bit of good www.polotimes.co.uk
fortune, HACKETT Army prevailed against South Africa with a two-point lead. The Indian team then beat the South Africans leaving the Army with the overall win, if they could secure a draw or, even better, a win. It was a patchy two chukkas, but again the Army team secured a draw and thus the valuable point to win the tournament on point difference. The team then moved on from Delhi to Jaipur for the first of the British Polo Day matches. The Rajastan Polo Club, under the patronage of the Maharaja of Jaipur, was the setting for this match against the 61st Cavalry. The teams took to the field for the Chelsea Barracks Jaipur Cup with a very large crowd of British Polo Day guests and local dignitaries. The 5 Goal 61st Cavalry Team were an experienced team used to the conditions and ponies, but with Gaston Devrient marshalling the British Army with
some tight marking, it was the HACKETT Army team that scored first to settle the nerves. Capt Mossy Hamiton scored a fine goal and a 60 yard penalty by Devrient ensured both teams were even after the end of the first chukka. With growing confidence the team began to string some passes together and Lt Jamie Drummond-Moray scored a fine solo goal from upfield. An instant reply by the 61st Cavalry saw the scores even at half-time. The important third chukka saw both teams striving to make the breakthrough, HACKETT Army’s Cornet Jamie Fry scored, but the 61st Cavalry replied in the dying seconds thus it was four goals apiece going into the final chukka. Tight marking in the centre of the field and some strong runs by Fry and DrummondMoray saw the HACKETT Army players score a goal apiece to put the result beyond doubt in HACKETT Army’s favour 6-4. After a long journey by car to Jodhpur for the second British Polo Day and a day coaching and practising, hopes were high that for the first time in seven years the HACKETT Army Team would win all three of their tour matches. The Umaid Bhawan Palace Trophy with HACKETT Army up against the Jodhpur Risala saw both teams playing with confidence. This was soon shattered by 5 goal Druvpal Godara playing on great form and some quick goals in the first period, putting pressure on the HACKETT Army side. Despite some valiant work marking, the Jodhpur Risala team played well up to their 6 goal handicap and at half-time they were 6-1 up. Things did not get much better in the third and fourth and with two nasty falls for Fry and Drummond-Moray, matters were not going to improve. A skillful run though by Hamilton restored some pride and with Fry also putting the ball through the posts, the result was 10-3 in Jodhpur Risala’s favour. So the envisaged three out of three was not to be, but what a tour it had been! HACKETT Army Team (5): Capt Moss Hamilton IG (0) Cornet Jamie Fry QRH (1) Lt Jamie Drummond-Moray SG (1) Gaston Devrient (3) Polo Times, February 2018
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Photograph courtesy of Melissa Ganzi
International & Home
5 minutes with…
Melissa Ganzi How did your polo career start? In December 2000, my father-in-law Wally Ganzi, who played polo, bought me my first polo pony and the rest is history. I grew up in Pony Club, evented and showed a bit, but I found my true passion in polo! What’s your greatest achievement to date? Our family’s Polo Clubs – Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington, Florida, which has just begun its 11th winter season, and Aspen Valley Polo Club in Carbondale, Colorado, which we started five years ago and just finished successfully hosting the fifth annual St. Regis World Snow Polo Championship. What’s your greatest ambition? To win as many tournaments as possible, not only in the USA, but around the world and to play until I am 90-years-old!
Which lady players do you admire? Why? Sunny Hale, no question! She was the all-time greatest woman’s polo player and first woman to win the U.S. Open in a male-dominated sport. She became a role model for women, including myself. Thanks to her vision we have a solid platform, women’s handicap rankings, American Polo Horse Association, U.S. Open, Women’s Championship Tournament series and dozens of tournaments around the world including the recent inaugural Argentine Ladies Open Polo Championship. Sunny died aged 48 in February last year and is sorely missed. I am so happy she will be inducted into the Polo Hall of Fame this year. What’s your favourite Club? Aspen Valley Polo Club for the summer season and snow polo. With the mountains as a breath-taking backdrop, it’s such a unique setting, especially when it’s snowing.
Bal Harbour Village Women’s Cup
Women’s Polo
Which version of the sport do you prefer, mixed polo or ladies’ polo? I love every form of polo, but I prefer mixed. It’s one of the few sports where men and women play with and against each other. Are there any changes you would like to see in polo as a sport? I love polo and wouldn’t change a thing. I am excited about the future and the sport’s growth particularly in women’s and youth polo. If you could pick a fantasy team, who would be on it and why? My family – my husband Marc, son Grant and daughter Riley. It illustrates how much of a family sport polo really is and that men and women can happily play together. “I couldn’t have done it without. . .”? Argentine, soon to be American, player Juan Bollini, a former 8 goaler. I started taking lessons in Saratoga and then played with him at the Royal Palm Polo Sports Club in Boca Raton, Florida. Juan continues to be a huge part of our organisation.
Photograph by Seth Browarnik/WorldRedEye
Whilst the eyes of the world were on Miami Beach for the Beach Polo World Cup 2018, two expert ladies teams took to the sand for the 2018 Bal Harbour Village Women’s Cup. Team Bal Harbour Village, captained by Melissa Ganzi, who was right in the middle of competing in the Beach Polo World Cup itself, were ultimately victorious against Team Peoples From Barbados 2-½. The Most Valuable Player Award was presented to Kerstie Allen from Team Peoples From Barbados following the match. The Bal Harbour Village Women’s Cup Teams: Bal Harbour Village: Melissa Ganzi, Sheryl Sick & Cecelia Cochran Peoples From Barbados: Kersite Allen, Danielle Sciaretta & Liselotte Sandberg
Bal Harbour Village were victorious in the 2018 Women’s Cup
All handicaps are HPA women’s handicaps, unless stated otherwise Is your women’s polo not featured? Email editorial@polotimes.co.uk with all your women’s polo news!
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Youth
Photography courtesy of The Hurlingham Polo Association
HPA Youth Tour to South Africa
Eight lucky children were invited to take part in a 10 day training course in South Africa
HPA Youth Tour to South Africa During December, eight young players had the opportunity to attend 10 days of intensive polo training in South Africa with Buster MacKenzie. Each summer the HPA’s Development and Coaching Committee are charged with identifying young players demonstrating the commitment and potential required to thrive in the game. The players are observed throughout the British Junior Polo Championships and the Pony Club Championships as well as at their home Clubs. The Committee then invites up to eight players, with a target age of 13 to 14, to travel to Plett, South Africa, in December to stay and train at Buster Mackenzie’s home for 10 days. A further group of up to six players aged 15 to 16 will travel in February. The eight selected for the December trip were Beanie Bradley, Will Drewitt, Olly Davis, Toby Bradshaw, Ollie Heard, Myles Murphy, Will Millard and Freddie Pritchard. Olly Hughes, the HPA’s Deputy Chief
Executive, said, “The kids are incredibly lucky during the Junior Polo season to play on some of the best grounds in the UK, both at the Clubs and on private grounds, where they play with their friends on their own ponies. The purpose of these trips is to take the kids out of their comfort zones to get a real sense of their potential. Buster’s assessment of the children forms an integral part of their future development and training. We send a qualified HPA Coach as chaperone, in this case Dan Banks, not only to support Buster, but also to be able to report back first hand to the Committee.” Dan Banks added, “The kids also had daily riding and schooling lessons with Buster, during which he emphasized the importance of riding, getting them to completely understand how best to control their horses; having the horse balanced will get them to the ball much quicker and in control. Without this understanding it’s far harder to make the plays they’d like to play. Throughout the trip, all of
For Youth polo dates, please turn to our What’s On pages Is your youth polo not featured? Email editorial@polotimes.co.uk with all your youth polo news!
the kids improved dramatically in their abilities and have come away far better riders.” They particularly valued the video analysis of their game by Gavin Chaplin and also watching 12 goal matches at Kurland with post-match analysis learning. Chris MacKenzie is now looked up to by all as their leading light in polo. Beanie Bradley, the only girl on the trip commented, “For me, being selected to train with this group of talented boys was extra special. To practice and ride amazing ponies, being taught by top coaches in the world and have the help towards our future polo careers is a dream come true. We had the opportunity to play four chukka matches on the most amazing ponies, play at the top of our game, eat the best farm food ever, cool off in the sea in the evenings and then play hand-stick polo till sunset. It was perfect. We will be taking everything we’ve learnt full speed into 2018 and will never forget this amazing opportunity.” Polo Times, February 2018
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Knowledge
Pony Power
Tute Height: 14.2hh Age: 14-years-old Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Owned and played by: Marcus Cork and played by Josh Cork Tournament: HPA New Year National Club Championships 6 Goal Photograph by Cymon Skinner Photography
Where is she from/breeding? She is an Irish ex-racehorse who we bought from Glen Armstrong. How long have you had her? This is our first year with her and her first winter playing arena polo, as far as we’re aware. Tell us about her background? She comes from a racing background and has switched her attention to polo perfectly. She’s a little demon on the field! What are her strengths? She’s really strong in the ride-off, considering her size and super speedy off the mark – the perfect polo attributes. How as she gone this season? This winter, she’s been our best horse.
Always where she needs to be. She’s the smallest, but the best! Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? Not yet, but I hope this is the first of many! What are your plans for her in the future? To keep playing her as much as we can and seeing where she goes. The only way
is up from here. We haven’t decided about the grass season yet, but she’ll definitely be coming out for the next arena season. Does she have any special quirks? She’s really calm in the box and just seems to be such a happy horse. Describe her in three words. Fast, agile, friendly.
Rotini Height: 15.1hh Age: Eight-years-old Colour: Dark Bay Sex: Mare Owned and played by: Richard Tyrone Tournament: HPA New Year National Club Championships 15 Goal Photograph by Cymon Skinner Photography
Where is she from/breeding? She is an Irish Thoroughbred and is by Amadeus Wolf. How long have you had her? I have had her since she was a five-year-old. Tell us about her background? She raced as a two-year-old, then she was flapping in Ireland for about two years and I actually bought her out of a knacker’s yard! She was literally going the next day to the knackers, but I managed to save her! She is now a complete natural; it’s marvellous. What are her strengths? She has a huge amount of power. She’s laterally very good, but can be a little funny in the mouth. She has a light mouth and she always stops well, but she likes to play around a bit. 54
Polo Times, February 2018
How as she gone this season? She’s gone very well this season. She’s actually only really had one proper season outdoors. This is her first season in the arena and she’s taking to it nicely. Today was her best game, but she wasn’t that sure in the first few games of the tournament – the enclosed space was a bit of a worry for her, but she’s getting better and better. Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? This is her first, but we hope not the last!
What are your plans for her in the future? I want to keep on playing her in the arena and maybe on grass. I like to rotate my ponies, so they all get a break and she actually had a pretty easy summer, so that’s why I bought her in. Does she have any special quirks? She is a wind-sucker. Describe her in three words. Natural, powerful, gracious.
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Knowledge
Equipment Focus: Bits
Stephen Biddlecombe of Equine Management Ltd answers a Tweet on bitting (Tweet yours @WorldwideTack)
Picking a Strong Mouthpiece Q. What’s stronger – a twisted mouthpiece or a Barrie bit? A. The two mouthpieces have different actions, so there’s no need to ascertain which is ‘stronger’ – although there are several highly engineered bits available that combine the actions and benefits of both the twisted mouthpiece and the Barrie! But, more on those bits in a moment... Firstly, the Barrie mouthpiece is often used for older or more experienced horses that evade by pulling forward. It is commonly seen with a gag cheekpiece. As usual, the ‘pulley’ ropes at the bit rings raises the bit up in the pony’s mouth and exert pressure on the bars and roof of the mouth, as well as creating poll pressure. However, the unique action of the Barrie is that it has two mouthpieces, the centre links of which are offset by 20mm, giving the bit a double nutcracker action on the tongue. Two rein sets are used. Twisted mouthpieces tend to be used for strong ponies that lean downwards on the bit, and are available in very many cheek piece styles, including a Pelham, 2.5 ring, 3-ring or gag. The twisted mouthpiece forms either large, spiral-like turns, or smaller, tighter turns. Typically, the wider the turns of the twist in the bit, the gentler the bit is; so a square twist is stronger than the round twist, because it has a more significant edge. A twisted bit may help to lighten the forehand and help educate the pony to carry themselves. A player with a pony that is a leaner AND a puller could look at a Barrie bit that’s twisted, such as the Bombers Square Twisted Barrie Big Ring Gag. Meanwhile, a versatile bit is the Bombers Reversible Barrie, which includes one twisted
The Bombers Reversible Barrie Gag can be flipped and used either way
The Bomber Square Twisted Barrie Big Ring Gag helps ponies that both lean and pull
mouthpiece, and one smooth one – the bit can be ‘flipped’ and used either way. As you can imagine, these bits tend to be used by experienced players. In fact, some
riders utilise twisted bits as a training tool, using them occasionally in order to educate the pony and alternating with other, more simple bits.
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Polo Times, February 2018
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Knowledge
Playing Tips
Playing tips with Rege Ludwig Hitting Coordination and Synchronisation
Renowned polo coach, Rege Ludwig gives his expert advice on how to get more out of your game
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Polo Times, February 2018
as before. The striker will now notice upon a very well timed stroke the click of the mallet head against the ball, the bell is heard at the exact instant that the leading fore strikes the ground.” Dr. Richards goes on to explain that to maximize your horse’s energy input into an offside fore shot, you should have your horse on the right lead (leg), contact the ball when it is directly opposite the horse’s right front foot, and ensure that that foot is the only one in contact with the ground.
When the other three feet are off the ground, each has added its energy input into the stride of the horse and the hit of the ball. The only foot remaining to add its energy input into the stride and the hit of the ball is the right front. Your horse’s energy input into the hit of the ball will be maximized when the right front foot is the only foot on the ground, the pastern bone is rising and the right foot is breaking over at the toe. Don’t be fooled into thinking, “Okay, got it; that is easy enough to understand”,
Photography by Matías Callejo
Hitting the polo ball effectively necessitates the coordination of some intricate manoeuvres of your body, while incorporating the movements of your horse and timing the mechanics of the swing. My intention in this article is to address each topic individually. To offer insight as to how detailed that process can be, I quote from a book I consider to be the most detailed and accurate accounting of riding a polo pony and hitting the polo ball. The book Observations Upon The Nature Of The Gallop And The Timing Of A Polo Stroke And Form In Striking was written in 1939 by 7 goal player, Dr. John D. Richards. To the best of my knowledge this book was never published for sale. I acquired it as a gift from a mutual friend of the Richards family. The book is quite technical and as a consequence, is not an easy read. However, I was delighted to discover someone who, to a great degree, understands the mechanical process of riding a polo pony and hitting the polo ball, and can explain it. From that book I quote, “We will now try to fix with greater accuracy, the exact instant during the footfall period at which the ball is struck in a perfectly executed stroke. Two simple observations will assist in this – bandage the right fore leg of the horse with a clean white bandage so that this leg contrasts with the green turf. Putting the horse on his right lead, canter him about the field as slowly as possible and hit straightforward offside shots, the object being not to hit the ball as far as possible, but to let the mallet head fall gently on the ball so as to secure the maximum distance with the minimum effort, i.e. make the horse hit the ball. When this effect is obtained, and there is no mistaking it, the striker as he stands in his stirrups and leans forward will notice the mallet head comes in contact with the ball when the leading fore leg is on the ground. Upon closer observation and with a little practice in the study of footfalls, the player will also notice that the leading fore leg is about in the position of vertical support at the instant of impact of mallet with ball. “With a piece of adhesive tape, fasten a sleigh bell to the hoof of the leading fore foot and canter the horse about the field striking
Timing your swing to perfection can improve hitting accuracy
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Knowledge
Playing Tips
on the hit of the ball is exhilarating and unavoidably noticeable. The circumstance under which those mechanics are most easily accomplished is when hitting penalties. Collecting your horse, or shortening its stride, as you approach the ball allows for more accurate control of placing your horse’s feet. Additionally, that shorter and slower stride produces more energy in the horse’s stride, while providing more time to synchronize the timing of the swing to the horse’s stride. When you hit the ball unusually well, more often than not, it was the result of having coordinated the body mechanics between you and your horse, while synchronizing the mechanics of your swing to those of your horse’s stride. Contemplate for a moment, how much better of a polo player you would be if you were to hit every fourth, fifth, or sixth hit with that degree of accuracy.
Reading your horses movements will make lasting impressions on your game
because timing the swing to have the mallet head contact the ball under those conditions is a complex and complicated process, and it is far from easy to accomplish.
However, when you are capable of controlling your horse’s stride to that degree, and can synchronize the swing of the mallet with those of your horse’s stride, the effect
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Knowledge
Vet Insight
Holly Grantham BVetMed MRCVS Holly Grantham BVetMed MRCVS is an FEI accredited treating vet, an approved stud vet under the BEVA approved AI List and a member of the Association of Racecourse Veterinary Surgeons. She is experienced in all manner of equine veterinary work including competition horse work, lameness examinations, pre-purchase vettings and stud work. Holly is employed by Tower Equine Veterinary Surgeons in Lincolnshire.
Dispelling Myths About Colic Preventative actions
I
n the equine world, the thought of the word ‘colic’ often puts the fear of dread into many horse owners. In actual fact, recent research focused on first opinion cases has shown that 57 percent of approximately 1,000 episodes of colic were simple medical cases which resolved with pain relief only, and only 17.5 percent were critical enough to either require surgical intervention, or unfortunately in some cases, euthanasia. Colic is actually a clinical sign of pathology within the abdomen (tummy region), causing pain. Colic is in theory just tummy ache. When we remember this, it doesn’t sound as scary – right? What are the signs of colic? These are variables depending on the individual horse’s pain threshold. However, common signs of stomach pain include lethargy, rolling, sweating, kicking of the abdomen, pawing and getting up and down frequently. Sometimes the degree of pain seen is related to the severity of the internal condition. However, there are many horses that show severe colic signs, despite having only a mild case, and others who can just look quiet, despite severe internal changes. So it is important to speak with your vet if you have any concerns.
Looking quiet could signal severe internal changes
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Most cases of colic or abdominal pain are short-lived and will resolve spontaneously or with minimal veterinary intervention, such as a shot of pain relief or an anti-spasmodic injection. As vets, we can not often know for sure as to the origin of these spontaneous, mild cases of colic, but usually put them down to gassy distension of the large intestine, with or without periodic intestinal spasm, the ‘spasmodic colic’. Why does this happen? The large intestine of the horse is enormous, 3-3.7metres in length, and contains huge volumes of bacteria, which are designed to ferment the fibrous roughage to produce energy. During episodes of spasmodic colic, some sort of dietary change such as a new paddock/hard feed/batch hay/change to haylage, sudden weather variation causing changes to the grass (such as frost), or many other possibilities, likely causes an imbalance within these delicately balanced bacterial organisms. Often with an overgrowth of bad bacteria versus good, producing excessive volumes of gas, and subsequent distension of the intestines with gas. In more severe cases of gaseous distension, the large intestine may start to rise up in the abdomen and start to
gradually twist. These are known as large colon displacements or in severe cases, large colon torsion. These will usually require veterinary assessment. Sometimes with pain relief, no food, exercise (such as lunging) and a little time, these twists will spontaneously resolve. If the twist becomes really tight, the Other forms of colic/abdominal pain Small Intestinal (SI) injury As the small intestine is freely moveable and narrow in diameter, it can often move within the abdomen to abnormal positions. Sometimes it can twist around itself, or around a fatty mass in the tummy. These are called small intestinal strangulations and are usually a real emergency, very painful and necessitate surgical intervention. Occasionally, the SI will move further forward and become trapped within an area called the epiploic foreamen. Large colon Impactions Sometimes horses will develop an impaction of dry faeces at a narrow point of their large intestine called the pelvic flexure. This can happen secondary to certain management variations such as a change in diet, sudden box rest or dehydration. Usually the colic signs are mild, with the horse being lethargic, maybe off food a little, reduced faecal output and maybe lying down more than usual. This is usually diagnosed using a rectal examination – many horses may require sedation for this procedure. Treatment is usually based on the administration of large volumes of oral water using a stomach tube, alongside low-grade pain relief and often a period of food withdrawal. These are usually not a medical emergency, but will require a number of days of medical management. Recent data looking at over 1,000 cases of colic showed an occurrence rate of 11 percent. Enteritis/Colitis Enteritis/Colitis is a severe inflammation within the small or large intestine causing either severe pain or severe diarrhoea. This can be a medical emergency in certain cases causing severe dehydration/toxicity. Other causes of a stomach ache could be gastric ulcers, high worm burden, hernias, liver disease, renal disease, peritonitis and colic.
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Vet Insight
Knowledge
help alleviate the discomfort. If your horse is trying to constantly get up and down or roll, try to keep them walking. However, if they are being dangerously erratic, leave them and get your vet there as soon as possible. Do not go into the stable with them, you do not need to be injured too. If your horse is just lying down, looking quiet and lethargic, it does not hurt to leave them quietly and allow them to lie.
Frequent rolling can signify stomach pain
Minimising stress can prevent colic
blood supply to that area of the intestine may become compromised, and this can become more of an emergency. The horse will be in an extreme amount of pain and surgical intervention will usually be required to resolve the issue. What to do if you find your horse is colicking? Phone your vet immediately – even if your vet
does not feel your horse needs to be seen straight away, it is worthwhile calling them for some advice. Try and remember any recent management changes or unusual things you have noticed in your horse’s behaviour, which could indicate what is happening. Take away all food, but still allow access to water. If your horse is looking mildly uncomfortable a walk or a light lunge can help move gas along, or encourage them to pass faeces, which can
Prevention of colic. Many cases of colic are completely unpreventable. However, the most important ways to prevent abdominal disease are: • Maximise the health of the stomach and intestines • Ensure adequate worming protocols are used, including the use of faecal egg counts and taking into account the age of horse/co-grazers • Minimise stress • Ensure a high fibre diet, encourages the correct bacterial balance within the colon, the addition of pre and probiotics in the diet can also help this • Feeding a small meal of fibre pre-exercise can help to limit acid splash within the stomach and reduce chance of ulceration • Ensuring good dental health – poor teeth and mastication can lead to ineffective digestion • Changing diets very gently, so the intestinal flora (bacteria), has chance to catch up and evolve • Always try to encourage plenty of turnout, (avoid sudden changes in duration of stabling), plenty of exercise (if medically possible), and access to water and good quality feedstuffs • Take care of sudden changes in grass growth and quantity, which can often upset the intestines
Colic in theory is only a tummy ache
If you find your pony colicking, contact your vet immediately
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Tower Equine Tower Farm Grimsthorpe Lincs PE10 0NF 01778 591082 www.towerequine.co.uk Polo Times, February 2018
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Knowledge
Medical Insight: Polodoc
Dr.med. Andreas Krüger is a Swiss board orthopaedic and trauma surgeon in Zurich, who specialises in knee and shoulder surgery. Andi is a second generation of tournament doctors for equine sports, known as Polodoc since 2013 and is a member at Legacy Polo Club in Switzerland
First Response on the Field
Player for player
Falling off the horse is a common risk in polo, with 58 percent of polo players reporting at least a single fall during a season. The most common players at risk are male with a higher handicap. When a fall happens during the game the first contact and check of the dismounted player is normally performed by a nearby teammate and/or the mounted referee, in the time it takes for the emergency team to come onto the field. The first crucial step is to keep the possibly injured player on the ground and set up a safe perimeter with the horses under control. The emergency team can then make their way to the player and proceed with taking over the initial treatment. How to respond to an injury as a player according to an emergency expert Prof. Dr. med. Aristomenis Exadaktylos MSc FRCEM Director of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University Hospital of Bern Inselspital, Switzerland The initial assessment for a possibly injured polo player does not differ from any other assessment. The primary goal of the first assessment is to determine any immediate life threats. The first step in performing an initial assessment is establishing a general impression, i.e. is this patient ‘injured’, ‘not injured’, or ‘possibly injured’. Taking immediate steps to immobilize the patient’s head and neck, with professional neck protection devices, improvised immobilizers, or with a pair of helping hands has priority.
Photography by Reinhardt & Sommer Photography
The first crucial step is to stabilise the injured player whilst awaiting the emergency team
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The following steps should be followed at all times: 1. To prevent any further injury to the head and spine, the level of general consciousness and responsiveness should be assessed and reported according to the AVPU criteria – Alert, responds to Verbal stimuli, responds to Pain stimuli, Unresponsive. 2. After checking the level of responsiveness, the patient should be checked and reported about according to the ABC criteria: Airway, Breathing and Circulation. When a polo player is injured, the airway sometimes gets blocked due to facial injury or foreign bodies. 3. A polo player’s airway should be maintained by removing all blocking objects and carefully positioning the head by elevating the jaw. 4. The next step after maintaining a clear airway is to check the breathing rate and quality. If the patient is breathing less than eight times per minute or taking shallow breaths for more than 35 minutes, the patient then needs immediate help from a professional medic as well as oxygen. 5. For responsive adult players, a pulse assessment is usually done by palpating the radial artery, which is located on the inside of the wrist toward the thumb. For unresponsive players, checking the pulse is performed by palpating the carotid artery in the neck. The absence or weak www.polotimes.co.uk
Medical Insight: Polodoc
Knowledge
from the airbag which triggers the system. The Helite Airbag System will inflate in less than a tenth of a second (at 250 mbar of pressure) and will stay inflated to support and protect the rider for 15-20 seconds. It will take five to seven minutes for the Airbag to deflate completely, unscrewing and removing the canister will speed this up significantly. The airbag unclipped and removed immediately after the fall.
Polo Club Kitzbühel Captain Sebastian Schneberger fell at the Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2018, but was not injured
quality of the pulse will require immediate action and call for professional help. 6. After confirming whether the pulse is present or not, the final step is to check for any heavy bleeding and to control it. Should a pulse not be detected, cardiovascular resuscitation (CPR) is recommended until a professional medic is able to take over.
padding very soft and comfortable against the skin. However, upon impact, these same molecules in the d3o protective padding lock together and become rigid. This ability for the d3o padding to transform itself from soft to rigid is what allows them to absorb the energy from the impact, which ultimately protects from that very same shock.
Exercise as a beginner
Helite Airjacket The key-ball lanyard is a part of the airbag. In case of a fall, the key-ball separates
According to German professional Thomas Winter, from Winpolo School, Hamburg, every polo player visiting his school must attend a specially designed First Aid course performed by the Red Cross for polo players. During this course, players are taught the basic manoeuvres for helping their teammates in an emergency on the field. HPA umpire and Cambridge University coach Mark Holmes states, “When you want to learn how to ride and play, it is paramount that you also learn how to fall and land safely.”
Protection gear Casablanca Casablanca elbow pads are filled with d3o. This is a specially engineered material made with intelligent molecules, which are designed to be viscous and malleable under normal conditions. This makes d3o www.polotimes.co.uk
A-XOC Under Clothes (trousers and jacket) The A-XOC Under Clothes materials are viscoelastic polymers with nano-damping technology. Their elasticity allows the shock to be absorbed and diffused through the oil of the material, with the energy of the shock transformed into heat. Their specific internal deformation and heating properties means that the materials remain fully effective while meeting stringent physical constraints. The A-XOC range is produced in Austria and the range is fully customisable. A-XOC protectors have passed all testing and are certified 1621:1 for the limbs and 1621-2 for the back protector, all at the highest level 2. They are placed at shoulder and elbow level, and completed with a central back protector. An adaptable belt allows an optimal fit. The unisex under-jacket should be worn close to the body, so the protectors are well placed and fit perfectly. Thanks to the A-XOC Lycra fabric, the jacket will adapt to all movement.
Important Steps after Fall: • Stabilise the head with both hands first • Coordinate moving the injured player with in-line stabilisation of neck/head • Unconsciousness and high velocity accidents are red flags for early professional help alert • Keep the player on the ground until a medical expert arrives
For more information on Polodoc contact Andreas Krüger at drmedkrueger@gmail.com Adrian Laplacette Jr. can be seen wearing a A-XOC jacket under his team shirt
Polo Times, February 2018
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Knowledge
Nutrition Focus
Lorna Edgar – specialist equine nutritionist
Ponies Playing Arena Polo Happy New Year to one and all! What a winter we have been having here in the UK – I think we are all longing for some sunshine and spring flowers to appear! I have seen quite a few ponies this winter that are in work for the arena season, and this got me thinking of how our ponies are coping in the cold winter months. Whether they are playing arena or on winter holidays, their bodies have the added stress of coping with the weather by keeping warm and fighting infection whilst their immunity is compromised. I for one am never far from a pot of vitamin C with zinc and some echinacea during the winter months! Those playing arena will be on a concentrate ration to provide calories (if needed), quality proteins, vitamins and minerals, and forage. The winter is no exception to my golden rule of always feeding ad-lib forage and actually in the cold weather they will WANT to eat more to keep warm. Horses have an efficient natural ‘central heating’ system from the digestion of fibre in the hind gut, which will be of great importance, especially for those ‘poor doers’ that lose their condition easily. Whilst we are cold and not wanting to drink so many cold drinks to cool down,
the horse will still require plenty of water to aid hydration. Providing the horse with electrolytes is as important in the winter as it is the summer as when the horse sweats it loses electrolyte salts. These must be replaced to aid performance and recovery, thus reducing the risk of tying-up, which they could be more susceptible to in the winter when the muscles don’t have time to warm up before they are worked/played hard. If their diet is not sufficient to support the workload being asked of them, they will not be able to perform as you would expect and they are likely to lose weight a lot quicker as they cope with rapid changes in body temperature from hot and sweaty to cold, thus burning excess calories. As long as their concentrate ration is balanced for the work they are doing, their body condition should be maintained and their immunity well supported. Feeding extra oils in the winter months can help with calories for those poor doers when the oils are fed in larger quantities, but if fed in smaller quantities, such as the ‘scientific glug’, oils will help with a shiny coat, which will make clipping so much easier! As with those diets I would recommend in the summer months, good doers can be fed a balancer only to provide essential nutrients, proteins, vitamins and minerals, Kerri Dyte exercising Jamie Morisson’s ponies who are on Conditioning Cubes and balancer to maintain winter condition during the arena season
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Polo Times, February 2018
Max Charlton’s pony Twilight, being examined by the author to keep an eye on condition. At 17-years-old her playing condition is maintained with Condioning Mix and balancer
without the calories or energy and would replace the small amount of cubes or mix that they are often fed. More muscle will be built, more fat will be burnt and more energy is highly likely! Not forgetting those ponies on winter holidays, battling the elements and trying to maintain condition – hopefully their ‘central heating system’ is working effectively whilst they are on ad-lib forage. The majority of the time polo ponies are not receiving any concentrates during their winter break, so their calorie intake is reduced and their immunity will become suppressed quickly as they are not receiving the vitamins and minerals to support them, therefore being more susceptible to weight loss, illness, foot abscesses etc. Earlier in January, I went to look at George Meyrick’s wintering ponies, we felt the majority were looking well, but those two or three that were starting to drop off some top line and their ribs were felt too easily are now going to be separated from the herd and fed some hard feed, a round bowl scoop of Baileys Top Line Conditioning Cubes per day, to help them maintain condition for the next six weeks. In doing this we are reducing the up-hill battle of trying to put on condition whilst they come back into work in March. So once again I cannot re-iterate the importance of feeding ponies on holiday and feeding those in work a diet to ensure an optimum of all vitamins, minerals and quality proteins are being received to support the current status of each individual. www.polotimes.co.uk
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Knowledge
Lipogems
Check It Out
Lipogems demonstrates how technology translated from humans for horses is paving the way for stopping career ending injuries in their tracks with a simple and effective yard-side procedure. Lipogems Equine has yielded results for many soft tissue injuries from deep digital flexor tendons to suspensory ligaments however, it seems the micro-fragmented adipose tissue graft has had success where other treatments have failed for the inferior check ligament (ICL). Check ligaments can be as troublesome as any tendon or ligament injury in a polo pony, however the injuries can often be chronic following an acute injury that fails to be noticed. Often ponies can tear or damage their inferior check ligaments (ICL) and don’t show any lameness, meaning unless you regularly scan your horses legs an acute tear can become much worse over the course of a season, that even rest precludes any possibility of a return to competitive polo.
Check Points Where in the leg is the check ligament? The small but important inferior check ligament runs from the carpus (knee) on the back of the horse’s fore leg and attaches to the deep digital flexor tendon just a short way down on the third metacarpal (cannon) bone. What does the check ligament do? Its function is to help the deep flexor tendon with shock absorption and prevention of excessive lengthening of the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT), hence the name check ligament. What can cause an injury? Injury occurs most often in the front limbs from overextension because of excessive twisting or pivoting on the leg. Treating an injury to an ICL? Managing a horse with a torn inferior check ligament can be tricky as the ligament is short, wide and tucked in between the deep digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament. The best outcome is to treat the injury as soon as possible by a Lipogems Equine accredited vet. The treatment can be done at your yard, under standing sedation in under an hour. Scans at five weeks will allow sign-off to return to walking exercise.
What happens if it is left untreated? Based on its location, a tear of the inferior check ligament can also affect both the deep and superficial digital flexor tendons in the short and long term. Left untreated or if you have a real tear, the horse will become lame and if the tear is severe enough, the horse will become severely lame and subsequently end his or her polo playing career.
Inferior Check Ligament (ICL)
Superficial Digital Flexor Tendon (SDFT)
Deep Digital Flexor Tendon (DDFT)
Polo Times, February 2018
Murray Shotter injecting an Inferior Check Ligament at the Shotter & Byers Clinic at The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club
Murray Shotter BVSc MRCVS, Shotter & Byers Equine Clinic, Consultant Lipogems Equine Veterinary Surgeon “As vets we struggle to treat inferior check ligament tears in polo, it’s a very difficult injury to treat, it can be a career ending injury. What we have found with Lipogems, as opposed to other treatments, is that it offers us a good way to get these horses back to play with almost perfect healing, I wouldn’t say perfect because nothing ever is perfect, but exceptional is probably the word, this therefore allows us an extra treatment option when treating inferior check ligament desmitis or mainly the tears. We have found with Lipogems transplants into the inferior check ligament, that usually within six weeks the scan is near perfect at that stage I usually turn them out, but you can put them back into walking exercise. A, the speed of recovery and B, the completion of recovery is exceptional. This treatment is good.”
Suspensory Ligament
Common Digital Extensor Tendon Distal Sesamoidean Ligaments
The ligaments and tendons of the horse’s fore leg
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Photography courtesy of Lipogems
Progress for polo pony injuries continues with Lipogems Equine
Check ligament injuries are a widespread problem in horses involved in the following disciplines: show jumpers, dressage horses, polo ponies, driving horses
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Lipogems
Dr Tim Watson preparing to inject lipoaspirate having processed the collected adipose tissue with the Lipogems Equine device
“I have treated 30 horses with a range of musculoskeletal conditions since May 2017. These have included injuries to superficial and deep digital flexor tendons, suspensory ligaments (proximal, body and branch lesions), inferior check ligaments and annular ligaments. Horses with degenerative diseases affecting the distal interphalangeal, metacarpophalangeal and femorotibial joints have also been treated. Patients have included Thoroughbred racehorses; polo ponies and sports horses and their conditions have ranged from acute to chronic. All bar one horse has returned to athletic performance at the same level as pre-injury. “Lipogems is an easy technique that can be performed at the patient’s side and enables prompt treatment for a wide range of common orthopaedic conditions affecting horses and ponies. The results are superior to other regenerative therapies currently used.”
Case 3 – Hunting and jumping horse Treatment date: 12 September 2017 Follow up scan date: 27 October 2017 Prognosis: This was a career ending level of injury to the ICL in this horse’s nearside fore. At the time of going to press this horse had progressed to trotting exercise fitness and progressing well in accordance with previous ICL treated horses.
Photograph courtesy of Waterlane Equine Vets
Dr Tim Watson BVM&S PhD MRCVS, Waterlane Equine Vets, Lead Lipogems Equine Veterinary Surgeon
Knowledge
This scan is of the injury to the inferior check ligament
Inferior Check Ligament Case Studies Case 1 – Dressage horse Treatment date: 19 August 2016 Follow up scan date: 17 November 2016 Prognosis: This dressage horse returned to pre-injury level competition fitness and one year on this horse continues to compete at the same level as before the injury.
Case 2 – Polo pony Treatment date: 28 March 2017 Follow up scan date: 22 June 2017 Prognosis: This polo pony’s injury was a career-ending one that had occurred three years prior to treatment. Six months after the follow up scan the pony is fit, sound and in work.
Pre-treatment scan for this dressage horse in August 2016
This scan shows the damaged ligament even three years after the injury
This scan is six weeks post treatment with Lipogems Equine
Courtesy of Waterlane Equine Vets
For more information and a full list of accredited veterinary surgeons visit: Website: lipogemsequine.com or lipogemscanine.com Email: lucy_wilson@lipogemsequine.com Tel: +44 (0)7919 252529 Follow using @lipogemsequine @lipogemscanine Post-treatment scan for this dressage horse in November 2016
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This scan was three months following treatment when the pony had already returned to walking work
Polo Times, February 2018
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Sidelines
Gossip
FOURTH GENERATION WILLIAMS
‘Cow’ Williams, the legendary Apes Hill Club owner, has welcomed his first great-grandchild, Dax Tiberius Wyndham Williams. Dax was born on 26 November to Oliver and Danielle Williams. Congratulations to the family – we can’t wait to see the next generation take to the field!
PIERES & CAMBIASO – THE PERFECT PAIRING?
In a USA high goal shake-up, 10 goal powerhouses Adolfo Cambiaso and Facundo Pieres will be teaming up and playing in the 26 Goal for Bob Jornayvaz, after Pieres’ usual American high goal patron Steve Van Andel has pulled out. Will they be unbeatable as a pairing? We can’t wait to see!
Tell us yours at gossip@polotimes.co.uk Anonymity guaranteed if you want it...
WALKING THE WALK
George Spencer Churchill added another string to his bow this month, walking the catwalk for Dolce & Gabbana in Milan. Safe to say, I think we prefer the suit George
CONGRATULATIONS CRAWFORDS!
Chris Crawford, Kirtlington’s own favourite kilt-sporter, is set to tie the knot with his own Brave ‘sweet’ heart Agnes Stamp, after she said yes earlier this month! [Apologies for the cheesy Scottish pun guys]
17TH HANBURY ARRIVES
The Hanbury clan welcomed another member in January. Ned William Hunter Osgood Hanbury was born to George and Tori just after the New Year and we can’t wait to see what type of polo career he has!
BABY BRETT
TRIPLE CROWN LINE-UP
The brand, spanking new line-up for the La Ensenada Polo Team has been announced, fresh from Argentina. Facu Florente will join Juan Martin Zubía, Jero del Carril and Juan Britos for the 2018 season. Let’s see what they have in store! 68
Polo Times, February 2018
NOVILLO ASTRADA BABY
Former England stalwart Henry Brett and his wife Laura welcomed a bouncing, baby girl, Indi, on 5 December. Congratulations from everyone at Polo Times HQ to the happy family.
Congratulations to the AAP President Eduardo Novillo Astrada and his wife Astrid on the birth of their son Tristán. He was born on Saturday 6 January and is doing really well. www.polotimes.co.uk
Tom Morley plays with Ainsley Polo saddle and tack (and pony) - photo by www.imagesofpolo.com
Ainsley Polo saddles Perfect hitting position and unsurpassed grip for all shots See it at Tally Ho Farm and www.performance-polo.com
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SAVING CHAMPIONS
SAVING YOUR BEST FRIEND
We can treat ligament, tendon and soft tissue injuries in horses from all equine disciplines and back grounds. The treatment only takes an hour and has a 95% success rate with faster recovery times.
We can treat degenerative joint disease, arthritis in the hip, stifle, elbow, shoulder, carpus and tarsu as well as traumatic injuries to ligaments and joint fractures.
To find an Accredited Vet in your area www.lipogemsequine.com @LipogemsEquine www.lipogemscanine.com @lipogemscanine #savingchampions E: lucy_wilson@lipogemsequine.com Cutting Edge Regenerative Science Dr Tim Watson BVM&S, PhD, MRCVS Waterlane Equine Vets, tim.watson@mail.com Mob: 07557 857 793
Mr Murray Shotter BVSc MRCVS Shotter and Byers Equine Surgery, murray.shotter@shotterandbyers.co.uk Tel: 01306 627 706
Mr Bruce Middleton MA Vet MB MRCVS Blackdown Equine Clinic, bruce.vet@hotmail.com Mob: 07766 993 085
M: 07919 252 529 Ali Cliff BVM&S (Dist) CertAVP MRCVS Crown Vets Referrals (Canine) referrals@crownvetsreferrals.co.uk Tel: 01463 237000
Dr. Jessica A. Kidd BA, DVM, CertES(Orth), Dipl ECVS, MRCVS Valley Equine Hospital kiddvet@gmail.com Mob: 07723 317 708
Horse Riding Holidays Worldwide info@farandride.com
01462 701110
Cecilya Ramos, Ava Montoya & Jasmyne Lott
David Johnson
Michael DeMaria & Al Molina
Holly Miller & Matt Kuebler
Charlotte Vertes & Tim Brennan
Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships; Scottsdale, Arizona; 11 – 12 November
Thousands flock to Arizona On a warm weekend, 13,000 people descended on the small town of Scottsdale, Arizona for the polo party of the year. With six matches over two days, as well as fashion shows (for both our human and canine friends), VIP lounges and enough food and beverage vendors to feed a small army, the event is a one-of-a-kind extravaganza of polo fun. This year’s event broke numerous records, from its enormous attendance to its sold out tents and even a 70 percent increase in ticket revenue from 2016, confirming it as the most attended polo event in the USA. Famous faces from across the polo world came to play and watch, and word has it, some even took part in the weekend long armwrestling contest. Who won? We’ll never know! Samantha Sheets, Ashley Busch, Jordan Fish & Katlyn Sweet
Audrey Fish, Ranna Ardebili, Kristy Foote, Sarah Foe & Natalie Loomis
Craig Jackson, Melissa Ganzi & Carolyn Jackson
Photography courtesy of Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships
Suzanne Klapp & Travis Bagent
Landon Odom
Gayle Bass
Scotty Goldfein & Daisy Carranza
Mya Fiarri & Lena Smith
Andrew Bracanovich
Kiki & Spike Gorrin
Santa Claus & Clogau Wales’ Ricky Cooper
Mouna & Sheikh Fahad Zayed
Gabriela Noser-Katiela
Gaia Gorla & Donata Andeloni
Rashid Al Habtoor
Beach Polo Cup Dubai 2017; Dubai Marina; 14 – 15 December
Shining bright in Dubai
HE Saeed Hareb, HH Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed Al Maktoum & Sam Katiela
Jan & Rita Bladen
Dr. Piero & Jazmina Dillier with Dr. Andreas Bihrer
In December, polo aficionados came from the four corners of the globe to witness the spectacle of Dubai polo at the Beach Polo Cup Dubai 2017. Alongside two days of thrilling matches, guests enjoyed the best food and drink Dubai had to offer during the warm evenings in the delicate light of the Dubai skyline. The lucky guests were treated to a spectacular horse stunt show in between matches as well as excellent entertainment from local musicians and DJs from further afield. And, if that wasn’t enough, all the guests were invited to take photos in front of a specially designed backdrop showing a polo pony bursting into play. As the polo finished, guests danced the night away under the Dubai stars, already looking forward to next year. Photography courtesy of Beach Polo Cup Dubai
Tete Storni, Matias Machado & Maxi Malacalza
Lina & Bassam Saman with Gregory Stinner
Mr and Mrs Ma Guolong & family
Sam Instone & Sami Moufleh with friends
Roberto Bonaventura
Nina Zadnia
Constanze & Martin Petersen
Roger le Bom & Andi Kruger
Melissa Ganzi & Alejandro Novillo Astrada
Mark Holmes, Christian Dunkelberg & Jan-Erik Franck
Peter Wrede & Alexandra Weck
16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel; Kitzbühel, Austria; 11 – 14 January
Winter Wonderland
Tito Gaudenzi receiving the coveted trophy
January in polo only means one thing – snow polo! As the snow fell on the snow sports mecca that is Kitzbühel, the six teams and their entourages readied themselves for a weekend of healthy competition. Alongside the thrilling matches, the lucky few were treated to not one, nor two, but three fantastic evenings of socialising, revelry and delicious treats courtesy of a collection of local establishments. From an evening of blackjack and roulette at Casino Kitzbühel, to a night of social carousing at the Kitzbühel Country Club and last but by no means least the luxurious Gala Dinner in the VIP marquee, socialising was high on the cards in Kitz. But the climax of the whole weekend was undoubtedly Finals’ Day. The clouds were clearing, the hot chocolate bubbling and the cheers deafening from the crowd who nibbled on delicate delights from Bogle Caviar and the seemingly endless buffet of worldwide delicacies! To a roar from the crowd, the hosts Bendura Bank took home the ultimate prize as well as a plethora of gifts from team sponsor Corum, Champagne Pommery and Engel & Völkers. The ting of glasses clinking in celebration in the VIP tent could be heard reverberating around the Tyrolean Mountains as guests celebrated another successful year on the Austrian snow.
Wolfgang Schlosser & Rumi the dog
Eduardo Anca
Photography by Reinhardt & Sommer & Polo Times
Adrian Laplacette Jr & Augustin Kronhaus
Caspar Crasemann
Thomas Winter & Adrian Laplacette Jr
The crowds turned out for the hotly contested Final
Steffi Von Pock
Organiser extraordinaire Tito Gaudenzi gives an interview
Iugo Sōhugen, Achim Saurer & Nikolai Burkart
Paul Janke
Marty van Scherpenzeel
Haddaway
Sarah Wiseman, Daniel Acosta & Claire Bailey
Tom Morley & daughter Myrtle
Playnation’s Peter & Paula Davies with guests
Playnation Arena Polo Masters; All England Polo Club Hickstead; Sunday 14 January
Playnation’s Finest
Seb Dawnay
As if by magic, the sun shone on this year’s Playnation Arena Polo Masters Finals’ Day bringing a January smile to both players and spectators faces. Following a thrilling Final, which saw hosts Playnation hold aloft the silverware, guests thawed their winter chills with a delicious Sunday roast in the Clubhouse. 2019 chitter-chatter was buzzing during lunch with arena’s favourite players expressing their interest in next year’s tournament. Fingers crossed for sunshine! Photography by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
Julia & Stephen Biddlecombe
Richard Le Poer & Flora Richardson
Myrtle Morley & Phern Latta
Romilla Arber & Nico San Roman
Lauren Jee & Leah Knight
Pedro De Lamare
Lucy & Natasha Bunn
Clair Woodhead, Rachael Espinoza & Bonnie Jackson
Phern Latta, Louisa Dawnay & Tessa Foot
Seb Baker & Leigh-Anne Moore
Hannah Johnson & Niall Donnelly
Simon Gaskin & Justine Elliott
Mohamed Moiz
Peter Abisheganaden
Santiago & Paz Bachman with their daughter
HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana
2018 Thai Polo Open; Thai Polo & Equestrian Club; Saturday 20 January
Royal Thai
Claude Harberer & Jean-Louis Graindorge
The sun shone and the crowds turned out for the highlight of the South East Asian polo season in Pattaya, Thailand. The crème de la crème of the polo world descended on the Thai Polo & Equestrain Club for a spectacle of polo, fashion and delectable delights. HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana was in attendance with her beautiful grey eventer, to not only wow spectators with her equine grace, but to learn a few polo tricks from Thai Polo & Equestrian Club Chairman Harald Link. After a thrilling day of end-to-end polo, which saw Malaysian royal team Royal Pahang take home the silverware on their thirteenth attempt, guests and players alike enjoyed a food and music filled evening under the Thai stars.
Tomás Fernández Llorente
HH Tengku Amir Nasser
Photography by Dominic James | www.dominic-james.com
Zherwin Acosta & Nara Ketusingha
Claudia Zeisberger & Agustin Garcia Grossi
Andy Harrison, Damián Marcos & Diego Gómez
HRH Princess Assunta of Liechtenstein, Harald Link, Mohamed Moiz, HH Tengku Amir & Mrs Nasser with HH Tengku Muhammad Nasser
Nunthinee Tanner & Suphadej Poonpipat
Caroline Link & family
Claude Zeisberger, David Munro & Rege Ludwig
Pedro Fernández Llorente
Manuel Cereceda
Rebecca Walters
Harald Link teaching HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana the basics
Hannah Johnson & Niall Donnelly with baby Rory
Sam, Harry, Jack & Howard Smith
Tessa Foot & Myrtle Morley
Michael Amoore
HPA New Year National Club Championships; The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club, Sunday 21 January
Rain Won’t Dampen Our Spirits! With a New Year came a new HPA National Club Championship for the avid RCBPC spectators to get their teeth into. Even though the weather was not on their side, with freezing cold temperatures and non-stop sleet, arena polo’s greatest fans turned out for the 6 Goal and 15 Goal Finals. The indoor grandstand was packed to the rafters with player’s families and friends as the action got underway. Delicious smells wafted from the BBQ tent and spectators were treated to warm mulled wine and hot chocolate as the players battled for possession on the field. Once the Finals had come to their tense finales, everyone took advantage of the temporary torrent respite to congratulate their competitors and cheers to another successful tournament. Georgina Morris-Lowe & Andrew French
Simon ‘Skinny’ McDonald
Saskia & Suzie Meadows
Photography by Polo Times
Flora Richardson
Phil Meadows
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Jamie Morrison
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Genevieve Meadows
Dates for Your Diary
What’s On
February UK Club Fixtures RCBPC – Winter Victor Ludorum Tournament Final (5-8): 4 February Westcroft Park – Westcroft Challenge (12): 3 – 4 February Tidworth – Bayonet Trophy (8-10 & -2-2): 3 – 4 February Vaux Park – Coffee Cup (2-6): 3 – 4 February DBPC – The Genesis Trophy (6): 3 – 4 February Epsom – St. Valentine’s Cup (2-4): 3 – 4 February Ash Farm – Challenge Matches (Open): 3 – 4 February Wicklow – France vs Ireland (Open): 3 – 4 February Rugby – The Final Arena Challenge (2-6): 7 – 8 February Hickstead – Victor Ludorum (5-8): 7 – 11 February Rugby – University Nationals (Open): 8 – 11 February Westcroft Park – Club Weekend (Open): 10 – 11 February Ash Farm – Valentines Trophy (Open): 10 – 11 February Epsom – St. David’s Cup (2-4): 10 – 11 February RCBPC – Weekend Tournament (0-4): 10 – 11 February Vale of York – Valentines Match (Open): 11 February RCBPC – The Olin Trophy (7-10): 13 – 18 February Tidworth – Seriously Cool Events Cup (4-8 & -3-0): 17 – 18 February DBPC – Genesis Trophy (8 & 2): 17 – 18 February Westcroft Park – Windlesham Bowl (2-4): 17 – 18 February Vaux Park – Casco Cup (Open): 17 – 18 February Vale of York – February Winter League (Open): 18 February Druids Lodge – Club Match for the Valentine Trophy (Open): 18 February Rugby – Sworders’ Trophy (-2-2 & 4-8): 20 – 25 February RCBPC – The Katie Tunn Trophy (4-6): 20 – 25 February FHM – Polo Splice Shield (-3-0): 24 February Epsom – St. Patrick’s Cup (3-4): 24 – 25 February SWF – Winter Cup (-2-2): 24 – 25 February Ash Farm – Challenge Matches (Open): 24 – 25 February
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Polo directory
UK Key Arena Dates RCBPC – FCT Invitational High Goal Challenge (13-15): 31 January – 4 February RCBPC – Arena Gold Cup (13-15): 13 – 24 February AEPC – International Arena Test Match, Bryan Morrison Trophy (Open): 3 March
Arena Youth Key Dates Druids Lodge – Exeter Cup University League (Open): 20 October – 16 March Druids Lodge – Druids Super League (Open): 28 October – 11 March Druids Lodge – Druids Lodge Novice National League (Open): 4 November – 25 March Druids Lodge – Druids Lodge Beginner National League (Open): 2 December – 25 March Rugby – SUPA University Nationals (Open): 8 – 11 February Longdole – SUPA Junior Arena Nationals (Open): 25 February Rugby – SUPA Senior Arena Nationals (Open): 4 March Druids Lodge – Easter University Tournament (Open): 14 March Westcroft Park – SUPA National School Girls Championship (Open): 10 – 11 March
Bangkok – King Power Ladies Tournament: 5 February Mingela – Ladies Polo Championships: 6 – 7 February Val de Vie – Ladies Tournament: 15 – 18 February Kaipaki – Mystery Creek Women’s Tournament: 24 – 25 February Victorian Polo Club – Alfa Romeo Ladies Day Tournament: 25 – 25 February Westcroft Park – Ladies Winter Championships (0-2, 3-4 & 4-6): 25 – 26 February Thai Polo & Equestrian Club – Pink Polo (14): 1 – 3 March 2018 Victrix Ludorum 18 Goal Knepp Castle – 18 Goal: 11 – 15 July Cowdray – 18 Goal: 13 – 21 July Cirencester – 18 Goal: 24 – 29 July Beaufort – 18 Goal: 27 July – 4 August RCBPC – 18 Goal: 4 – 12 August Guards – 18 Goal: 21 August – 1 September
America
Sarasota – Florida Circuit Constitution Cup (4-8): 1 – 18 February Eldorado – Carlton & Keleen Beal Cup (0-4 & 0-8): 2 – 11 February Empire Polo Club – Regional President’s Cup (4-8): 16 – 15 February IPC – Ylvisaker Cup (16-20): 24 January – 18 February Eldorado – Pacific Coast Circuit Constitution Cup (4-8): 16 – 25 February Empire Polo Club – Pacific Coast Circuit Player’s Cup (2-4): 17 – 25 February IPC – Inglehart Cup (20): 22 February – 10 March IPC – USPA Gold Cup (26): 8 – 25 March IPC – Carlos Gracida Cup (20): 11 – 31 March IPC – Butler Handicap (26): 22 March – 1 April IPC – US Open Polo Championship (26): 4 April – 22 April
Australia
Yaloak – Yaloak Polo Tournament: 3 – 4 February Yaloak – Ballarat Polo Cup: 9 – 10 February Eynesbury – VPA Championships: 17 – 18 February Arunga – Arunga Tournament (0-2, 4-6 & 8-10): 24 – 25 February Toowoomba – Spring Polo: 23 September
Dubai
Al Habtoor – Mclaren Cup (18): 26 January – 9 February Al Habtoor – Polo Masters Cup (10): 10 – 15 February Al Habtoor – Dubai Gold Cup (18): 16 February – 9 March Polo Times, February 2018
77
Polo directory
Dates for Your Diary
8 Goal
2018 Victor Ludorum and High Goal Dates 22+ Goal
New Zealand
Queenstown – Amuri Tournament (0-3): 3 – 3 February Cambridge – Keyte Watson & Women’s International: 3 – 4 February Kihikihi – 10 Goal Tournament: 7 – 11 February Kihikihi – International Day: 10 February Auckland – Land Rover New Zealand Open: 13 – 18 February Hawkes Bay – New Zealand vs South Africa (6): 24 – 25 February
RCBPC – Prince of Wales: 5 – 19 May Guards – Cartier Queen’s Cup: 22 May – 17 June Cirencester – Warwickshire Cup: 19 – 24 June Cowdray – King Power Gold Cup: 26 June – 22 July RCBPC – Coronation Cup: 28 July
18 Goal
Cowdray – Duke of Sutherland: 21 May – 10 June Cirencester – Apsley Cup: 13 June – 1 July Guards – Indian Empire Shield: 3 – 21 July Cowdray – Challenge Cup: 23 July – 5 August
15 Goal
South Africa
Guards – Royal Windsor Cup: 5 – 24 June RCBPC – Eduardo Moore Trophy: 26 June – 14 July Cowdray – Harrison Cup: 16 July – 4 August Cirencester – County Cup: 7 – 18 August Beaufort – Arthur Lucas: 21 August – 2 September
Val de Vie – Cape Classic (6): 21 – 25 February
12 Goal
Cowdray – Dollar Cup: 14 May – 3 June RCBPC – John Prestwich: 4 – 16 June Beaufort – Prince of Wales: 18 – 30 June Cirencester – Queen Mother Trophy: 2 – 15 July Guards – Duke of Wellington: 4 – 19 August Cirencester – Cheltenham Cup: 28 August – 9 September Cowdray – Autumn League: 10 – 23 September
Thailand
Thai Polo & Equestrian Club – Stephan Chimfunshi Cup (10): 8 – 11 March Thai Polo & Equestrian Club – Thai Polo Cup (10): 23 – 25 March Thai Polo & Equestrian Club – Beginners’ Cup (4): 7 – 8 April
Cirencester – Gerald Balding: 14 – 28 May Guards – Archie David: 8 June – 1 July RCBPC – Hipwood Trophy: 4 – 21 July Cowdray – Holden White: 23 July – 5 August Beaufort – Wichenford Bowl: 13 – 27 August
6 Goal
Dallas Burston – Stoneythorpe Cup: 14 – 27 May Beaufort – Rojas Lanusse Trophy: 5 – 16 June Kirtlington – Budgett Everett Trophy: 2 – 12 August HPC, The London Polo Club – Roehampton Cup: 14 – 26 August Cirencester – Kingscote Cup: 28 August – 8 September
4 Goal
Burningfold – 4 Goal: 5 – 10 June Rutland – Assam Cup: 25 June – 1 July Cheshire – 4 Goal: 9 – 15 July Cambridge County – 4 Goal: 23 – 29 July Tidworth – Rundle Cup: 7 –12 August New Forest – 4 Goal: 14 – 19 August
Beach Polo
Holdfast Bay – Pol Roger Beach Polo: 10 February Victorian Polo Club, Australia – St Kilda Beach Polo: 16 February Sandbanks – British Beach Polo Championships: 13 – 14 July Thai Polo & Equestrian Club – Hui Hin Beach Polo: 30 March – 1 April
Snow Polo Dates St. Moritz – Snow Polo World Cup 2019: 25 – 27 January 2019
Editor’s Note – All dates are correct at time of going to press. Polo Times takes no responsibility for fixtures moved, cancelled or altered. Always check with the Club(s) for the most up-to-date fixtures lists.
Club contacts UK and Ireland CLUB
PHONE
All Ireland Polo Club
CLUB
PHONE
00353 01 6896732 dstone@indigo.ie
Blueys Polo Club*
07712 105780
polomanager@blueyspolo.co.uk
All England Polo Club Hickstead*
01273 834 315
polo@hickstead.co.uk
Bramham Polo Academy
07811 993316
emmadvh@btinternet.com
Apsley End Polo Club*
01462 712444
tobiana.scott@gmail.com
Bunclody Polo Club
00353 87 6605917 info@poloclubbunclody.com
Ash Farm Polo Club*
07799 812739
ashfarmpolo@hotmail.com
Burningfold Polo Club
01483 200722
derrek@burningfold.com
Barfold Polo Club
07778 808853
mborwick@gmail.com
Cambridge Polo Club*
07711 217004
cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com
Beaufort Polo Club
01666 880510
enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk
Cambridge County Polo Club*
01223 812922
info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk
Beverley Polo Club*
01964 544877
info@beverleypoloclub.co.uk
Carlton House
07901 561113
harrietservaes@hotmail.com
Binfield Heath
01491 411969
bhpcmanager@gmail.com
Chester Racecourse Polo Club
01244 304602
amorris@chester-races.com
78
Polo Times, February 2018
www.polotimes.co.uk
Polo directory
Dates for Your Diary CLUB
PHONE
CLUB
PHONE
Cheshire Polo Club
01270 611 100
info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk
Peover Polo Club
07766 016 833
polomanager@peoverpoloclub.co.uk
Chiltern Polo Club
07973 174542
info@chilternpoloclub.com
Polo Wicklow*
00353 404 67164
siobhan@polowicklow.com
Cirencester Park Polo Club
01285 653225
info@cirencesterpolo.co.uk
RAF Cranwell
07739 569491
rafcranwellpoloclub@yahoo.co.uk
Cowdray Polo Club
01730 813257
enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk
Ranelagh Polo Club*
01344 885697
ranelagh@labravapolo.com
Curraghmore Polo Club
00353 51 387102
mkennedy@cssgroup.ie
RCBPC*
01344 890060
polo@rcbpc.com
Dallas Burston Polo Club*
01926 812409
polo@dbpoloclub.com
RMAS Polo Club
07973 174542
rmas-nc-aci-projinters@mod.uk
Dorset Polo Club
01202 623985
office@dorsetpolo.co.uk
Rugby Polo Club*
01788 817724
info@rugbypoloclub.com
Druids Lodge Polo Club*
01722 782597
abi@druidspolo.co.uk
Rutland Polo Club
07772 040668
secretary@rutlandpoloclub.co.uk
Dundee and Perth Polo Club*
07831 365 194
jamesscrawford@aol.com
Silver Leys Polo Club
07730 060200
silverleyspoloclub@gmail.com
Eastwood Polo Club
07875 743475
frankums@googlemail.com
St. Albans Polo Club
07956 017090
info@stalbanspoloclub.co.uk
Edgeworth Polo Club
01285 821695
edgeworthpolo@gmail.com
Suffolk Polo Club
07790 576974
aes3@cam.ac.uk
Edinburgh Polo Club*
01314 496696
djamesjamie@aol.com
Sussex Polo Club*
01342 714920
info@sussexpolo.co.uk
Emsworth Polo Grounds*
01344 883112
info@fourquarterspolo.co.uk
Taunton Vale Polo Club
01823 480460
nhs.wheelers@gmail.com
Epsom Polo Club*
07961 232106
epsompoloclub@hotmail.com
Tidworth Polo Club*
01980 846705
info@tidworthpolo.com
FHM Polo Club*
07778 436468
frances@fhmpolo.co.uk
Toulston Polo Club
01422 372529
info@toulstonpoloclub.com
Fifield Polo Club*
01628 620061
fifieldpoloclub@live.co.uk
Triskelion Polo Club*
07624 272547
polo@triskelionpolo.club
Great Trippetts Polo Club
01428 741916
charles@trippetts.com
Vale of York Polo Club*
07788 426968
info@valeofyorkpoloclub.co.uk
Guards Polo Club*
01784 434212
polo@guardspoloclub.com
Vaux Park Park Polo Club*
07703 524613
vppc@btconnect.com
HPC, The London Polo Club
020 8334 0000
office@hpcpololondonpolo.com
West Wycombe Park Polo Club*
07787 560729
secretary@westwycombepolo.co.uk
Hertfordshire Polo Club*
01707 256023
polo@hertspolo.co.uk
Westcroft Park Polo Club*
01276 858545
info@westcroftparkpolo.co.uk
Hurtwood Polo Club
01483 272828
gary@hurtwoodparkpolo.com
White Rose Polo Club*
01430 875767
info@whiterosepolo.co.uk
Inglesham Polo Club*
07818 508136
mattevetts@hotmail.com
White Waltham Polo Club
07748 670587
kim@playpolo.co.uk
Kirtlington Park Polo Club
01869 350138
info@kirtlingtonparkpolo.co.uk
* Also open for arena polo in the UK winter
Knepp Castle Polo Club
07920 023639
info@aspectpolo.co.uk
Leadenham Polo Club
01400 318006
office@leadenhampoloclub.com
Longdole Polo Club*
01452 864544
info@longdolepolo.com
Moor Farm Polo Club
07494 114190
shop@moorfarmshop.co.uk
Moor Hall Farm Polo Club*
01279 450637
alecbeve@btinternet.com
Answer -
New Forest Polo Club
07977 224404
annabelparryjoyner@yahoo.co.uk
our Letters page
Norfolk Polo Club
01508 480400
office@norfolkpolo.co.uk
Northern Ireland Polo Club
02890 727905
robert@hellomxb.com
Offchurch Bury Polo Club*
07816 830887
info@offchurchburypoloclub.co.uk
Pangbourne Polo Club
07708 906810
aprice@polofix.com
Quick Question to the question posed on
A: The first Snow Polo World Cup took place in St. Moritz, Switzerland and Reto Gaudenzi is credited with founding this illustrious form of the sport.
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Polo Times, February 2018
79
Final bell
In association with Aprés Polo
Photograph by Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel, Reinhardt & Sommer Photography
If you’ve attended any of the top European polo tournaments in the last decade, you will have undoubtedly heard the dulcet tones of ‘The Voice of Polo’, Jan-Erik Franck. From Baku to Badrutt’s Palace, St. Moritz, Jan-Erik has mastered the art of polo commentary, hailing from a polo playing background and bringing his true passion for the sport to light. Polo Times spoke to him in between thrilling snow polo chukkas at the 16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel. What is your biggest passion and why? It has to be music. I remember as a kid hearing a marching band and just being absolutely fascinated by the brass and drums. I love everything from Abba to Zappa, but my favourite genre is definitely rock – I love a good guitar solo! What is your all time best polo memory? It would have to be playing for BMW at the 2014 St. Moritz Snow Polo World Cup. Playing in St. Moritz is amazing – the atmosphere, the scenery and I even scored the winning goal in the Semi Final. We lost to Cartier in the Final, but it was just amazing to take part and feel like a real professional polo player. Who are your favourite teammates and why? I would have to say Nacho Gonzalez, Chris Hyde and Nico San Roman because they are absolute masters of the game. Those three together would be the ultimate team. Hardest opponent? Oscar Mancini
Which sports do you like outside of polo? Surfing, snowboarding, tennis, squash and football. Favourite film and why? Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid – I love my comedies. Favourite song/ album? Physical Graffiti by Led Zeppelin.
Favourite food / dish? Simple food – soul food – spag bol, chilli con carne or even a good slab of meat with some veggies.
Favourite hobby outside of polo? I love trawling through street markets, finding unique treasures. Most prized possession? My girlfriend, Nicole. Favourite celebrity? Tom Hanks.
Best holiday destination & activity Australia. We went on a cruise and saw everything we could over a couple of weeks – it was amazing. Are you passionately superstitious? I have a lucky number, 24 – because I was born on Good Friday, 24 March. Describe yourself in three words… Passionate, generous, kind.
Best pony and why. Mariana. She was a machine when you turned her on. But, she had such a lovely temperament. You could put a baby on her and she wouldn’t bat an eyelid. When I walked to the field in the mornings, she would come to my whistle – she was such a lovely girl.
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unique and inspiring Zßrich – St.Moritz hato-restaurants.com