Volume 22 • Issue 2 • March 2017 • £6.50
www.polotimes.co.uk
SNOW SPECIAL Cartier triumph Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz 2017 SEBASTIAN DAWNAY Interview PLUS: Row For James Atlantic Adventure & Club Catch-Up
Contents
Contacts Publisher Nick Hine publisher@polotimes.co.uk
What’s inside...
March 2017
Group Editor in Chief Richenda Hine richenda@polotimes.co.uk Editorial Manager Rosabella Hine rosabella@polotimes.co.uk
19
Advertising Sales Richard Hine richard@polotimes.co.uk Principal Design James Morgan
Additional Design Tony Ruddy
36
Financial Controller Angie Clark accounts@polotimes.co.uk Editorial & Subscriptions Sarah Flight office@polotimes.co.uk Subscriptions & Accounts Assistant Rosalind Cutter ads@polotimes.co.uk Overseas Reporter Katie Vickery katie@polotimes.co.uk
Contributors:
Galina Badalova, Stephen Biddlecombe, Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers, Lorna Edgar, Alex Jacob, Dr.med. Andreas Krüger, Gethin Maddocks MA, Vet MB, MRCVS, Annabel McNaught Davis, Nigel Mercer, Peter O’Rorke, People of Polo: Cymon Skinner & Andrew Yates, ©Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo. com, Rosy Taylor & Sarah Wiseman
Contact details
Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton, Glos, GL2 9LN Tel: 01452 730770 email:admin@polotimes.co.uk
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© Polo Times Limited 2016 and Database Right 2016 Polo Times Limited holds the copyright & database right to the information it publishes in Polo Times and on the Polo Times website. No content may be reproduced or distributed without the consent of the Publisher. ‘Polo Times’ is the trade mark of Polo Times Limited. ISSN 1461-4685
Cover photograph: Dario Musso & Rommy Gianni celebrate Cartier’s win of the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz 2017 By People of Polo: Cymon Skinner
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Polo Times, March 2017
News 6 10 12
All the Latest News HPA News FIP Update
Comment 14
Your Views: Letters
Features 16 19 24 28
Big Picture Interview: Sebastian Dawnay Club Catch-Up Cover Story: Row For James
Reports
36 Cover Story: Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz 2017 42 Images of Polo Winter Victor Ludorum 5-8 Goal 44 Paul Sweeney Memorial Trophy 46 FCT Invitational Challenge Trophy 47 RCBPC Winter Victor Ludorum 5-8 Goal 48 Cover Story: HPA New Year National Club Championships Club Focus 53 Your Club News from Home and Abroad
Women’s Polo 57 57 58
A Round-Up of Women’s Polo Barbados Battle of the Sexes Manipur Ladies
28 Youth Polo 61 64
SUPA Times! All Aspects of Youth Polo
Knowledge 66 67 70 72 74 76
Arena Focus: Surfaces Pony Power: Polo Times Best Playing Pony Series Nutrition Focus: Spring Is Here And Work Starts! Polodoc: Play Like A Pro & Treated By A Pro Vet Insight: Not All Frogs Like Water! Bit Focus: Bits To Fit
Sidelines 78
Sidelines: Social Pages
Polo Directory: 83
What’s On in March?
Final bell: 88
Passions: Dario Musso
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from the Publisher
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Polo Times, March 2017
Shane Williams vs IGO IGO Adventures, the brainchild of polo player turned adventure entrepreneur Bobby Melville, has recently announced that Wales’ most capped winger and legendary player, Shane Williams, will be taking on the mighty challenge of NW05° – The Moroccan Challenge in October 2017. The four stage event will consist of 45km desert bike, 10 and 20km kayak & orienteer, 43km mountain bike phase followed by a 10km Atlas scramble. Shane commented, “I’m so excited to take part in the inaugural Morocco IGO event. The physical challenge coupled with camping in the desert each night will be amazing, and with the finish line at the top of Morocco’s second highest mountain – I can’t wait!” For your chance to get involved, visit igoadventures.com
Early Bird Sellout On Wednesday 1 February, tickets went on sale for Chestertons Polo in the Park as well as a limited number of Super Early Bird tickets for Saturday 10 June, which sold out in a record 20 minutes as polo enthusiast snapped up the discounted Tickets for Chestertons Polo in the Park 2017 are now on sale tickets. Chestertons Polo in the Park will kick off on 9 June with International Friday featuring an England Polo Team, the following day is Ladies’ Day and Sunday 11 June will see the Finals of Chestertons Polo in the Park 2017. But fear not, you can still get your hands on standard priced tickets from £30, which can be purchased from www.ticketmaster.co.uk or for more information please visit www.polointheparklondon.com
Sunset Polo & White Party Tickets After the success of the inaugural event in 2016, it has been announced that Nic Roldan’s Sunset Polo & White Party will take place on Friday 24 March, hosted by Mark and Katherine Bellissimo at the Wanderers Club, Wellington, Florida. The event will benefit Brooke USA, which is the official American fundraising arm of Brooke – the world’s largest international equine welfare charity, for which Nic Roldan is an ambassador. Guests will be treated to top polo, afternoon tea, an authentic Argentine asado plus much more.
Sand Polo 10th Anniversary Tickets Tickets are now on sale for the 10th Anniversary of the British Beach Polo Championships at Sandbanks. The Championships will be held from Friday 7 to Saturday 8 July, and tickets start from £25 for early admission up to £70 for VIP admission and afterparty access. Visit www.sandpolo.com for more information. www.polotimes.co.uk
Photograph courtesy of Chestertons Polo in the Park
As we move into March, spring is set to burst forth, bringing with it, the first homegrown daffodils – and for any polo addict, the exciting prospect of polo ponies coming into work all over the country for the eagerly awaited 2017 polo season. For many however, the new season brings with it uncertainty and change as a result of the sweeping changes recently introduced by the Home Office. In order to address the concerns, this issue of Polo Times, hears from current FIP Chairman, (and former HPA Chairman), Nicholas ColquhounDenvers, who explains in detail the current position on visas, following what many see as the draconian changes brought in by the Home Office. Having been a close family friend since the 1970’s, I am certain that Nicholas’ intention is to set the record straight – and to encourage us all that, despite the ‘bag of nails’ that the Home Office has currently dealt British polo, bulldog spirit will prevail, and polo in our great country, will not be allowed to suffer at the hands of the bureaucrats in Whitehall. To this end, Polo Times spoke with a cross-section of British polo clubs to understand what they are doing differently this season – from the oldest, to the newest, their collective responses all demonstrated that despite the inevitable changes, the 2017 polo season will prosper. Encouragingly, as we approach the start of the 2017 season, this already seems to be the case with: two Brits, Charlie Wooldridge and Chris Hyde, in the winning team in the Snow Polo World Cup 2017 St. Moritz; the SUPA Winter Nationals hosting a record number of 165 teams from 35 universities and the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club enjoying its highest number of team entries for the Arena Gold Cup for almost 10 years. British polo has led the way internationally nigh on 150 years and I am convinced that with resourcefulness and determination, the words of the late great British leader Winston Churchill will continue to ring true for polo players the world over, “Polo is a passport to the world”.
News
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News Caring Home Urgently Needed
10 Marathons in 10 Days This April, veterinary surgeons, Carolyne Crowe and Brian Faulkner, are running an astonishing 10 marathons in 10 days to raise £10,000, in extreme locations across the British Isles, to raise money for a cause close to their hearts, equine welfare charity Brooke – Action for working horses and donkeys. Carolyne, from Gloucestershire and fellow vet Brian, from Suffolk, will start their gruelling 260 mile journey in Wahilgoe, Northern Scotland on 14 April and finish with the London Marathon on 23 April. We will keep you updated on their progress.
Help! Ice and Soda are lovely pets and excellent around kids. Both very gentle and kind. Ice loves to go shooting, has a great nose and picks up really well despite never having had formal training. They are very gentle with other dogs, even when in their own home, they are never walked on a lead and they come back to the whistle unless there’s a squirrel or rabbit(!), but they will steal food given half a chance! Both are fine in a car. Their only vice? If left in the garden alone they will run off. Due to a change of circumstance, their owner has to move on 2 March and her new property will sadly not allow dogs. Ice is 14 and Soda 11 (white blaze). No health problems. They’ve never been apart. If anyone can give them a kind home please call on: 01242 821 062 or 07977 012 507.
Polo For Good
Photograph courtesy of Horses Healing Hearts
Horses Healing Hearts (HHH) announced American professional, Matt Coppola as a new ambassador. HHH is the only nonprofit organisation in the USA that provides an equine facilitated learning programme designed to help children dealing with addiction in their homes. The four-goal player, who has been playing for Horseware in the Ylvisaker Cup, is the organisation’s third polo ambassador, joining professionals Stuart “Sugar” Erskine and Jeff Blake.
Matt Coppola, Horses Healing Hearts latest ambassador
Ice & Skoda are looking for loving homes
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HPA News
HPA News The latest news both home and abroad from the HPA
Photograph by Brett O’Callaghan
Kihikihi International Test Match On Saturday 11 February, England faced New Zealand in an International Test Match at Kihikihi Polo Club, New Zealand. Despite the best efforts of England, New Zealand ran-out the winners with a close 9-8 score. To read more about the match, turn to Club News.
HPA Youth Development As Polo Times went to print, two groups of youth players were attending Development trips in both South Africa and Florida. Six players were selected by the Development Committee to attend a week’s training clinic with Buster Mackenzie in South Africa and four young players visited Florida as part of a youth exchange programme. For the list of those young players selected, turn to the Youth Polo section.
Jack Richardson chases down Craig Wilson
Bryan Morrison Trophy On Saturday 4 March, All England Polo Club, Hickstead will host The Bryan Morrison Trophy Arena International Test Match, with England facing the Commonwealth. The teams have been announced as: England (21) Harold Hodges (6) Jonny Good (Capt.) (8) Adolfo Casabal (7)
Equine Passports The HPA have recently updated the website (www.hpa-polo.co.uk) with all the relevant forms for the Equine passports. There have been pricing adjustments that have become effective as of 1 February. Please make sure you are completing the most up to date form (which will be the one from the website) any old forms should be returned to sender. If you need any additional information or have any questions, call the HPA on 01367 242828 or email enquiries@hpa-polo.co.uk
Commonwealth (21) Mikey Henderson (6) Ryan Pemble (8) Jamie Morrison (Capt.) (7)
The HPA Are Recruiting The HPA are recruiting for an intern position from March – September. The role is full time, Monday to Friday 9am-5pm based at the HPA office in Faringdon with occasional weekend work at polo matches. Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
England International Dates for 2017 Announced The Hurlingham Polo Association have announced the two dates England will play International games in the UK this summer. The first is the International Test Match which will be played at Beaufort Polo Club on Saturday 10 June, the team line-up and their opponents are yet to be announced. This event The Royal Salute will take place as part of the Gloucestershire Festival of Polo which straddles the weekend of Coronation Cup will be on Saturday 29 July 2017 10 – 11 June and is always a popular event with trade stands and lots of activities for children. The Sunday will see the Maserati Charity Polo Trophy played as well as the Javier Novillo Astrada U15 Cup. In July, England will take on the Commonwealth in The Royal Salute Coronation Cup at Guards Polo Club on Saturday 29 July; team lists are still to be confirmed. Last year the Commonwealth defeated England 12-9. Will England prevail in 2017? Tickets for both events will shortly be released along with details of how and where to purchase. 10
Polo Times, March 2017
Winter Victor Ludorum Series The Winter Victor Ludorum 5-8 Goal Series was introduced this season, with five tournaments scheduled to be played at five clubs from December 2016 – February 2017. It was hoped that the combination of a number of venues, locations and tournament duration would allow teams to participate and enjoy the whole series. The rules and points were based on the existing Summer Victor Ludorum system, with the winner to be announced at the end of the 2016/17 season. The results so far are: Westcroft Park National Club Championships: 2 – 11 December 2016: Tex8n Polo beat Las Aguilas, 20-7 Druids Lodge (El Rosario Trophy): 24 – 29 January 2017: Taittinger beat Bush Pigs, 17-9 RCBPC: 31 January – 5 February 2017: Tex8n Polo beat Taittinger, 12-11 AEPC, Hickstead (Images of Polo 5-8): Exclusive Rooms beat Red River Polo, 11-8 Rugby: 21 – 26 February: Still to be played at the time of print
The role will include: • Issuing Equine Passports • Organising training courses, polo matches and overseas trips for Junior HPA members. • Organising training and seminars for prospective and qualified coaches. • Running the HPA’s social media, including specific promotions for the Coronation Cup. Candidate skills required include: • Be a clear communicator with a professional telephone manner and strong interpersonal skills. • Be competent in using Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook. An understanding of polo and other equestrian sports would be favourable but not essential.
For match reports from Hickstead and RCBPC please turn to our Reports pages and for Druids Lodge, turn to Club News www.polotimes.co.uk
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 plus a consideration of the effects of the Home Office’s decision The UK Home Office is Endangering English Polo Some may ask why the Federation of International Polo (FIP) is taking an interest in the domestic affairs of one particular nation and commenting on the recent draconian UK Home Office immigration proposals which threaten the continued meaningful existence of polo in the UK. The answer is that the knock-on effect of the Home Office’s cavalier treatment of the HPA – the polo world’s oldest national association and one that is probably the most highly respected in the international polo community – will have ramifications well beyond the United Kingdom. It challenges the very nature and ethos of the pro-am global structure of our sport which is played internationally in some 77 countries around the world. By their lack of meaningful consultation with the HPA the Home Office in their ignorance have proposed a series of changes that have, at a single stroke, effectively put paid to Winston Churchill’s famous phrase of “Polo is a passport to the world”. England which has been the very heart and home of polo for almost a century and a half for so many overseas players, both amateur and professional, find themselves being told that they are effectively no longer welcome to play here. It has also endangered the fragile fabric of true international polo which is currently played at every level across the world.
“the Home office has also endangered the fragile fabric of true international polo which is currently played at every level across the world.” Such isolationist rules as proposed by the UK Home Office policy will severely damage international relationships and potentially prevent the majority of UK players who play at levels below medium and high goal from accessing international polo. It is highly unlikely that they will be hosted as in the past to be able to improve their polo skills overseas in any country where the UK ban on professionals below 5 goals is in force. If they try, it will soon become so prohibitively expensive that it will deter people from our sport. We have always encouraged interaction between countries
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Polo Times, March 2017
like Argentina and the Commonwealth countries such as Australia, New Zealand and South Africa and in return they have proven to be excellent training grounds for our young and up-and-coming players during our off season. So how did it all start? Since the change from the old work permit system to the new points based system in 2008, all players and grooms have been granted visas through the Sports and Entertainment. In 2015, the HPA was informed that the Home office had received complaints that some of those granted visas to play polo in the UK were abusing the conditions against which those visas had been granted. Neither the detail of the persons making the complaints nor of the players allegedly abusing their visa conditions has ever been revealed to the HPA, so the veracity of the complaints remains a question mark. During 2016, as those who played in the UK last season will be aware, the supplementary polo played by those players here on a visa was more closely monitored and meetings were held to agree ways in which this could be improved for 2017. At the same time, various compliance visits were conducted. This was no different to previous years; however it would appear that the inspections were NOT random and the outcome turned out to be very different! Previously, the compliance visits had not raised any major issues, and any issues that were raised were resolved between the Home Office and the sponsor concerned. However, in 2016 the 15 visits which centred on a very limited geographic region, with all those inspected being prominent members of the polo community, resulted in 15 immediate suspensions. This leads one to suspect that the inspections were deliberately ‘targeted’ possibly due to information supplied to the HO by a few English players who had written divisive claims that foreign players were taking their jobs. It would appear that the Home Office were determined to establish that there was widespread abuse. However, the minor administrative infringements (such as no photocopy of a passport on file, lack of detailed time sheets and contact details) that they found should never have been listed as reasons for suspensions in the majority of the reports. In many cases, the fact that grooms were not linked directly to a specific team was also listed as cause for suspension, although this had never previously been included as a requirement
in the HPA criteria as agreed by the Home Office as late as September 2015. The infringements were not reported to the HPA until September 2016 and at that stage the Home Office made it clear that the visits confirmed widespread abuse, even before those suspended had had the opportunity to put forward their case, and thus justifying their proposals which had been put together on the basis of research conducted privately by the Home Office. The Home Office’s new stated position is that they will only support a sport “at the highest level” which they considered to be only high goal polo and players of 5 goals and above. They were persuaded by the HPA that medium goal should be included but were adamant that any polo below that level was not the business of Sports and Entertainment. Further, grooms would only be able to work in the UK on a visa if they were part of an overseas team and then only if they were attached to an overseas player. Following lengthy discussions and legal action, the Home Office have moved their position and accepted that a non-EEA 4 goal player may play here in the 15 goal and above, and that grooms may work for any player in those levels provided that the correct licences have been obtained. However, the effect of these new criteria will be widespread both here and overseas. As all those who play polo understand, polo is a team game in more ways than one. The player, his ponies and his groom(s) come as one item and they cannot be split up. Each team other than at the lowest levels needs funding by one or two individuals, the patrons. More often than not, the player funding a high or medium goal team will be a player with a ‘low goal’ handicap. A successful team will be one that can find players who are competitive on their handicap and with whom the patron is happy to play. Thus, even at the ‘highest level’ in the UK, as in other countries, the amateurs/ patrons need the professionals and the professionals need the amateurs/patrons! The most crucial point is that these patrons who eventually support both the high and medium goal polo have to start in low goal to first gain the experience, ability and desire to play at the higher levels. Without a healthy low goal, the medium and high goal will wither and die. The development of the UK players will also suffer as the opportunities overseas diminish. If a player has a desire to improve and have any hope of playing at the highest
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FIP News “Without a healthy low goal, the medium and high goal will wither and die.”
FIP News VI FIP Snow Polo World Championships: The Annual FIP Snow Polo World Cup was played for in its sixth year at the stunning Goldin Metropolitan Polo Clun in Tianjin. Five Teams were invited, one from each continent and there was a Hong Kong Team made up of players from the FIP Member Nations to represent our hosts. The grounds were excellent under the careful eye of Derek Reid, the Director of Polo at The Metropolitan and teams from Argentina, Australia, England,
Hong Kong, South Africa and the USA participated. Argentina ran out the winners for the first time in six years in an exciting Final against the host team HK. England, who had an excellent tournament were narrowly defeated in the Subsidiary Final to take fourth place. FIP World Cup Play-Offs: In Zone D: It was the Royal Malaysian Polo Association who generously hosted the play-offs at the stunning Thai Polo & Equestrian Club by kind courtesy of Harald Link and Nunthinee Tanner. A great match ensued between the Malaysian side & the New Zealand Team captained by a very experienced Cody Forsythe with NZ running out the winners with a final score of 9-5½ . In Zone B: Zone B play-offs were played at the Punta del Este Polo Club between Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Uruguay with the Argentine Team taking the honours. So they will join the Team from Chile, who qualify as the past winners, in Sydney in October 2017. Zone C: This will be played at Chantilly Polo Club, courtesy of Patrick Guerrand-Hermes between 28 April and 7 May. There will be two places for the FIP World Championships in Sydney so we wish all the European Zone teams participating, the very best of luck. Concurrent with the play-offs, we will be seeing the inaugural running of FIP’s new European Ladies Championship. Any enquiries should be directed to either office@ fippolo.com or Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly - bp@poloclubchantilly.com
Photograph courtesy of Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club in Tianjin
level, they need to play with and against the best players in the world, in Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Pakistan etc. It is hardly likely that these countries will welcome our players if we do not welcome them. There are then the horse welfare implications which could be far reaching. The job of a polo groom is a seasonal one and this makes it difficult to establish any sort of career structure or for a polo groom to get a mortgage. Jobs overseas in the off-season are limited as the major polo playing country, Argentina, has a very limited requirement for grooms, as do the other countries. The grooms have a responsibility to look after a string of ponies and get them fit for their employer, many of whom have neither the time nor expertise to supervise an inexperienced groom. And of course the groom needs to be competent enough to get the ponies fit. Failure on that score could lead to more injuries to both groom and employer and an added burden on the NHS. Finally, the UK polo support industry will suffer, the farriers, vets, feed merchants, farmers and equipment suppliers and the like which have grown up successfully around the sport. It seems strange that the UK Home Office should impose criteria which are to the detriment of the majority of its own players and its own polo industry. There are no UK grooms who are being displaced by the overseas grooms, and none of the overseas grooms overstay their
visa or claim benefits. Add to that the fact that UK grooms require a year-round job or is it accepted by the Home Office that in the five months of the ‘off-season’ they will be claiming benefits at an increased cost to HM Treasury? Will the Home Office also take responsibility for the health and safety aspects of the consequences of such a drastic change and at such short notice caused by the requirement to train nonpolo grooms for the job with the possible consequences of more personal injuries to burden an already overstretched NHS? Some say that this is all about protecting the English player but protectionism has been proven to fail in business in today’s globalised world, time and time again. It certainly cannot work in a sport as international as polo and the consequences no matter how unintended they may be, are clear and present danger to the health of the sport in the United Kingdom. We sincerely hope that some middle ground can be found so that the HPA can be allowed to consult fully with the Home Office and to govern for the benefit and growth of polo both here and overseas as they have done with considerable success for the past 142 years.
Six teams competed in the sixth Annual FIP Snow Polo World Cup: Argentina, Australia, England, Hong Kong, South Africa and the USA
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Polo Times, March 2017
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Comment Letter of the month The writer of letter of the month wins a bottle of British Polo Gin @britishpologin 18 years and over only
Letters
Some personal reflections on the broader returns to be gained from the discipline of polo Brian Perry, OBE, FRCVS To say that I was a late-comer to polo is slightly misleading; I first brandished a mallet aged 26 at the polo Club at the then Imperial Ethiopian Jockey Club in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where we lived at the time. But it was not long before I returned to the equine sport I was heavily engaged in at the time, namely horse racing. Why? Polo handicaps have numbers associated with them, but my numberless handicap was being left-handed! The world’s left-handers apparently include Barack Obama, David Cameron, Prince William, Bill Clinton and Oprah Winfrey, among many others, and while it appears to be seen as an attribute in politicians and personalities (and some tennis players!), it is an all-consuming detriment in polo. Thou shalt play right-handed! I tried again very briefly a decade or so later in Zambia, but being young and highly competitive, decided to stick to the sports I could handle well with my left hand, which at that time were squash and tennis. So I was in my late 40s when after several misadventures on the cross-country course while 3-day eventing, my wife and daughters pleaded that if I must ride horses competitively, do it on a polo ground! Not all independent observers would endorse this advice, but I took it seriously, bought a foot mallet, and spent many hours wandering the garden whacking at polo balls right-handed. To say it was a success is an overstatement, but it gave me enough confidence to take up the game again, more seriously this time. I bought a couple of schoolmasters, was invited to compete in a tournament, and our team were runners-up; there was just no turning back! There have been a few hiccups along the road; having to have a hip replacement 16 years ago was potentially the biggest, but with my surgeon ensuring an extra 10 degree angle in the hip, riding horses has not been one of them (falling off and breaking bones on the other hand have!). So now, more than 21 years since that first tournament, I still play polo regularly. I reflect from time-to-time on my meagre contributions to the game, and contrastingly the colossal contributions the game has given to me. I have never risen above a 0 goal handicap, but have had the fortune of teaming up with several very talented players, which has translated into me being on the winning team in several local and international tournaments. Nevertheless, arguably my most significant contribution to polo has been off the ground, in the organisation and management of polo at Club and National levels. I served as chairman of the Nairobi Polo Club for 9 years, ViceChairman of the Kenya Polo Association (KPA) for 10 years, and then chairman of the KPA for 4 years. More recently I have taken over as Chairman of the Manyatta Polo Club, a position that I still hold. Somehow, much to the surprise of many of my colleagues, I have acquired a reputation as a diplomat, facilitator and organiser, functions I have enjoyed enormously, and which, as I will describe further below, are central to what polo has given back to me. Polo have given four things to me: • A determination to beat the odds of any disadvantage; • The incentive to develop successful working partnerships with animals; • The immense rewards offered from the challenges of managing people and institutions characterised by diversity of opinion and common objectives; • The multiple teamwork implications of success in polo to broader life, work and livelihood management. 14
Polo Times, March 2017
Write to the editor in the following ways: w letters@polotimes.co.uk wL etters, Polo Times, Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane,
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Being left-handed is not a real disadvantage in most sports, but I use it to illustrate the point that there is so much more to be derived from engaging in team sports than just winning the match! When young and highly competitive, I was put off from taking up a sport in which I thought I was not a certain winner. As I grew older, I realised that the broader physical, social and intellectual benefits of competing completely outweigh the downside of a Brian Perry, OBE, FRCVS with his daughter Lippa Wood after a slight disadvantage. match at the Manyatta Polo Club Working partnership with animals. in late November 2016 I am a vet, and assessing, understanding, communicating and treating animals are central to my professional life. Polo has brought a set of very different relationships; every horse is unique, and a unique personal rapport must be cultured with each one of them. That is not straight forward, and I have learnt so much about the range of sensitivities, demands and pleasures that each horse experiences. Managing people and institutions characterised by common objectives and a diversity of opinions about how to achieve them. The array of horse behaviour is perhaps dwarfed by the heterogeneity of the behavioural potpourri of owners and polo playing institutions! I have always felt that I must give back to the various sports I have been involved in, by offering to play a role in their organisation. This has thrust me into the arenas of strategy development, planning and management, at both National and Club levels, ensuring that all members have a say, and that the diversity of different clubs is recognised as a strength and managed as such. The experiences I have gained have translated into valuable contributions to leadership and communication in my professional life, particularly emphasising the importance of evidence, diplomacy, consensus and transparency. Teamwork in polo, and its implications for life. There are 10 people on the polo ground, carried and supported by 10 living creatures (their mounts), demanding a high degree of discipline by all. All must be respected at all times, and this differential respect is heavily nuanced. The welfare of the horses is paramount, and the rulings of the two umpires must be viewed as final and accepted. The four people on the opposing side must be defeated, but fairly, following all the rules, and with civility. The three other people on your side must be communicated with and understood. What is their role, and how well is it being interpreted? At the end of the last tournament of the 2016 season, I offered a few words of philosophy at the presentation ceremony. The tournament had been dominated by young players, either at school or at university. All see polo as their favourite sport, and of course they all aspire to be 10 goalers. But ironically all are riding horses provided by their parents, and despite their obvious talents, most will undoubtedly leave the sport completely before too long in search of a career. I suggested that the key principles of playing polo will be highly relevant to the next phase of their lives, be it in business, in academia, or in politics. Know your role in the team and that of your teammates; know the strengths and weakness of your opposition or competitors; play by the rules at all times; and respect and communicate civilly with all of these stakeholders. And drawing a parallel with the horses, allocate particular respect to the welfare of those who are under you. www.polotimes.co.uk
Comment Dear Sirs, Who was responsible for the ten goal ceiling? Was it India? Was it the HPA or Buenos Aires, Argentina? They are all the ones who benefit form the ceiling. Now, the patrons in The Queen’s cup or The Gold Cup can be zero with the correct handicap if the players are playing on eleven or twelve goals. Why is there the ceiling? Ten goal players and above must be put up and be given the correct handicap. The two Hipwood brothers should go to ten now, making it fair. They have never been put up to ten, so why not do that now; it will make it correct?! More teams will enter The Queen’s Cup and The Gold Cup Tournaments and have a better chance of winning. It should be fair. Yours sincerely, Harrison T Hanlon
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JAKOTANGO’S PATAGONIA MarchMarchX Well known poloMarchMarchMarchX photographer, Alice Gipps, has sent in some jealousy-inducing pictures to the Polo Times office, of her time spent in Patagonia on an eight day adventure ride with Jakob Von w MarchMarchMarch Plessen’s company, Jakotango Riding Adventures. In this picture, Jakob is standing on the rocks along the ‘Pass of Tears’ – not a place for those with vertigo! w Photograph by Alice Gipps/ www.alicegipps.com w Jakotango Riding Adventures www.jakotango.com
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Sebastian Dawnay Interview
Feature
Sebastian Dawnay Richenda Hine catches up with this fourth generation polo player who has played all over the world in a career spanning two decades… and counting
Photography by Tony Ramirez/©www.imagesofpolo.com, Alice Gipps, George Gunn, Michael Chevis, Riva Dario, Italy and courtesy of Sebastian Dawnay
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s polo pedigrees go Sebastian Dawnay’s is impressive to say the least. His great grandfather Hugh played in the army before World War I. Sebastian’s grandfather David was a 7 goal player, captaining the British Polo Team in the 1936 Olympics. Sebastian’s father Hugh opened the first ever polo school in 1976 and taught polo worldwide in 37 different countries and was the author of two seminal polo books: Polo Vision and Playmaker Polo. Sebastian began his polo career representing Ireland Pony Club in the UK Polo Tour way back in 1989 when he was still at school – the year that the Berlin Wall came down and the Gameboy was invented. Democracy has flourished since the late 1980s and so has Sebastian’s polo career. Unusually for many polo professionals he has achieved success both in the arena and in the outdoor game. He has played in the Arena Gold Cup nine times, notching up six wins, whilst in outdoor polo he has played at the top 22 goal level, captained England and Ireland sides and won The Townsend Cup for England, a victory not achieved previously since 1923 in America. Sebastian has achieved a 5 goal rating outside and an 8 goal arena polo handicap. He has captained both England and Ireland internationally, for both outside and arena polo.
15 goal Subsidiary Final of the Royal Windsor playing for Aravali
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Polo Times, March 2017
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Feature
Sebastian Dawnay Interview
Polo Q & A Q: Did you feel pressure growing up to become a polo professional having such a strong polo pedigree through your father and grandfather? A: No, not really, my dad knew all too well the high level of addiction with the sport, but he also knew how difficult it was to make it work financially and to be successful; however, it didn’t deter me at all and just made me want it more! Q: What was the best piece of advice in your father’s book Playmaker Polo? A: Wow, that’s a difficult question; he poured all of his polo experience and life into Playmaker Polo. The chapter that I would say has the best advice is Chapter 4, Thought Processes: it challenges the player to ask themselves three questions when playing and what works best for the individual and team in the moment, also it highlights the things to avoid to become more consistent and overall, a better player. Q: Did you feel pressure to go into the army as your father and grandfather had done? A: Actually, the opposite again – I had my place and plane ticket all ready to start my officer training in Germany when my dad called me to make sure it was what I really wanted to do (it wasn’t). He told me he’d support my decision to follow my dream of becoming a polo player and that was all the encouragement I needed, there and then I picked up the phone to Brook Johnston and confirmed my commitment to play for C.S Brooks the following season. Q: Were you ever tempted to pursue any other sports professionally? A: Yes, I played football and field hockey in goal for school and at county level, also I was asked to join Waterford Crystal Swimming Club but the hours and training were brutal and polo very quickly took over everything. I did think about being a football goalkeeper for a bit. Q: Tell us about winning the Junior Westchester Cup for England. A: I was offered to Captain the side and it was a unique opportunity to travel to Boston and
Sebastian’s grandfather David captained the British Polo Team in the 1936 Olympics
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see the beautiful Myopia Polo Club, an almost frozen in time Polo Club. There I met some amazing people and players. Crocker Snow (Adam Snow’s father) and Bob Daniels (of the Pony Express Polo Team) were fantastic hosts and both lent me ponies, I got to play a very famous old mare that Gonzalo Heguy had played and was his favourite. We had a great team of Mark Tomlinson, Tom Morley, Nina Clarkin and our very knowledgeable coach, David Morley. The opposing Captain was a young Nic Roldan and the game was played in front of a big crowd and tightly contested, we ended up winning by a couple of goals and the whole experience was absolutely amazing. Q: What are your plans for the rest of the winter of 2016/17? A: I’m playing arena polo with Hedonism Wines (Royston Prisk and Evgeny Chichvarkin) Polo Team at the moment and we are finishing the winter season with the first game on the Hickstead International Day on 4 March. For Easter I’m going to Mexico for the 8-12 goal Jaguar Cup at La Patrona Polo Club, where I also will do some polo clinics and private lessons. Q: What are the plans for the summer 2017 UK season? A: The season is filling up fast with tournaments being booked at Cirencester, Guards and at my home Club, Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club. I will also be teaching and coaching at RCBPC with the Cool Hooves Polo School. Q: Would you consider retiring whilst you are at the top of your game (like AP McCoy) or will you take your chances and carry on like Adolfo? A: I can’t imagine myself ever completely retiring from polo, it’s my way of life. However, what I won’t do is carry on playing competitive tournament polo in my sixties – there are too many accidents and unfortunately although the mind thinks it can still play, it’s very clear to me the body does not recover like it once did. Q: Where do you get your ponies from? A: I normally go to Martin ‘Sticky’ Glue for advice and see what’s available, I make the odd horse, but I must admit it’s not my passion and there
Sebastian’s father, Major Hugh Dawnay, who passed away in 2012, a great pioneer of polo coaching and author of Polo Vision and Playmaker Polo
Learning to back-up with Sebastian’s late father, who opened the first polo school in 1976 Winning The European Championships 1997 for England
Playing for the victorious England team, The European Championships 1997
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Sebastian Dawnay Interview
Notable Achievements
2016: Captained Ireland to victory in the Beaufort International Test Match vs England. Director of the Polo School at La Patrona Polo Club, San Francisco, Mexico 2015: Captained Ireland in Arena International Championships, Selected for Ireland 18 goal Gigaset International at Beaufort Polo Club vs England, Megeve Snow Polo Semi Finalist. Represented Dublin, Ireland in Polo in the Park, London. Started Dawnay Polo and Bespoke Saddles 2014: Captained Ireland in European Championships, Finalist and silver medalist, Victor Ludorum 8 Goal Winner. Captained Ireland at the British Beach Polo Championships, Sandbanks. Captained Ireland against Wales at Horseguards 2013: Captain of England Townsend Cup and England won against USA (not won by England since 1923) 2012: Arena Gold Cup Winner 2011: Captained Ireland in Test Match vs Scotland in the O2 arena. Selected for England against USA in Townsend Cup 2010: Victor Ludorum 8 Goal Winner, Klosters Snow Polo Finalist 2009: Victor Ludorum 8 Goal Winner, Arena Gold Cup Winner, selected to play for England against South Africa, Klosters Snow Polo Finalist 2008: Captained England vs South Africa in South Africa Arena Test Match 2007: Arena Gold Cup Winner 2006: 22 Goal British Season for Congor, Arena Gold Cup Winner, selected for England team against South Africa. Polo Manager and Head Coach at Ash Farm Arena Polo Club (2006-2009). Fully qualified HPA Coach. Joined HPA arena committees – Polo Committee, Handicap Committee and Rules Committee (2006- To Present Day) 2005: Arena Gold Cup Winner, 22 Goal British Season for Black Bears, 18 goal Indian Empire Shield Winner 2004: 22 Goal British Season for Black Bears, 22 goal Warwickshire Cup Winner, Subsidiary Queen’s Cup Winner, Subsidiary Gold Cup Winner 2003: 22 Goal British Season for Labegorce, finalist Queen’s Cup, finalist Gold Cup, A Grade umpire and joined professional umpire PA group (2003- To Present Day) 2002: 22 Goal British Season for Ashbert Raiders, Subsidiary Gold Cup Winner, Polo Manager Costa Careyes Polo Club, Mexico (2002-2004) 2001: Captained England against USA for the Junior Westchester Cup 2000: 22 Goal British Season for Black Bears, Subsidiary Queen’s Cup Winner, finalist Gold Cup, finalist Warwickshire Cup, Winner of Cartier International The Coronation Cup 1999: 22 Goal British Season for Coca Cola, Queen’s Cup Semi Finalist, Subsidiary Gold Cup Winner. Captained Ireland in European Championships finalist & silver medalist 1998: Arena Gold Cup Winner, 22 Goal British Season for CS Brooks, Gold Cup finalist, Queen’s Cup Quarter finalist 1997: 22 Goal British Season for Pommery, England Team European Championships Winner 1996: 22 Goal British Season for CS Brooks, Gold Cup Winner, Queen’s Cup Semi Finalist, Gold v Queen’s Cartier match 1995: Pony Club Gannon Finalist 1993: Substitute for Ellerston White high goal team (whilst still at school) 1989: Represented Ireland Pony in U.K. Polo Tour Qualifications HPA PP Professional Umpire (2003 - present) HPA Professional Coach (2006 - present)
Runners-up in the Cowdray Gold Cup 1998 for CS Brooks
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In action for Black Bears in the Gold Cup Final 2000
Feature
has to be something very special in the horse to catch my interest. I have bred a few ponies from time to time, but only from my favourites and old faithfuls. Q: Who are your particular favourites at the moment and why? A: I bred from my favourite mare Chinchy who I bought from C.S Brooks, who originally came from Alfonso Pieres and I bred two amazing geldings from her, I’m extremely lucky as both are outstanding. The first is TicTac (aka Paddy Whack) he’s eight-years-old and his sire was Hector from the Tomlinsons – Will Emerson tries to buy him every season. The second is Bambi who is six-years-old, his sire was the very famous Portage from Andrew Seavill. Q: Who is the toughest opponent you have played with and why? A: I played against Cambiaso several times and only managed to come close to beating him once in the 2003 Queen’s Cup Final; he is truly a one and only and unfortunately many try to copy him without his talent. Also, Chris Hyde is one of the toughest opponents I have ever played against in the arena and a force to be reckoned with in field polo too. He seems to find and keep the ball all the time! Just when you think he can’t carry on at that pace much longer somehow he does and then some. He has one of the biggest hits I have ever seen and his hand eye co-ordination is excellent. I have been very fortunate to have been his teammate for several seasons in Simon Holley’s Asprey Ocho Rios 15 goal team. Q: Describe your all time favourite polo memory A: Coming home to Ireland over a weekend and playing at Wicklow Arena Polo Club with my dad who was 72-years-old and 2 goals at the time, and I’ll never forget how he used his experience to out-fox our opponents. Q: Who is your favourite teammate? A: I played with the Novillo Astrada family for six seasons with different combinations of brothers, but Javier was the one who chose me and backed me and even put me into the team (Coca-Cola) on 3 goals when they could
Winning the Indian Empire Shield A blast from the past! with Black Bears in 2005 Polo Times front cover from 2005 showing Arena Gold Cup winners Ashfronts: Sebastian with Jamie Morrison and the late Paul Sweeney
Victorious in The Townsend Cup in 2013 for England, the first time the trophy had been won by England on US soil since 1923
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Feature Q: What is your favourite level of polo to play and why? A: 22 goal was amazing and sometimes I had to stop and pinch myself that I was on the field with the best players in the world. The speed was incredible and the pre-season preparation was intense.
15 Goal Royal Windsor at Guards Polo Club playing for Lost Boys
have taken a 4 goaler. He was an amazing player and a true gentleman on and off the field. I played a lot with Pete Webb at an 8 goal level which is one of the toughest levels in my opinion. Pete’s ball carrying skills and hand eye co-ordination are superb. With the massive benefit of John Horswell on the side coaching us, we worked very well together and won three Victor Ludorum titles. Also, more recently, I have been playing a lot with my good friend Royston Prisk in the arena and field polo and I really enjoy playing with him. Q: What do you feel are your strengths? A: Taking the man, hitting backhands and avoiding ‘ball watching’. Q: Which position do you feel most suits your style of play? A: I have played at the back most of my career, but I really do enjoy playing at No.2 in 8 and 10 goal level Q: Do you prefer playing in the arena or on grass? A: That is a very interesting question: I love them both equally and I treat them as two totally separate sports. The arena saved me after about 10 summer polo seasons playing back to back travelling around the world. I noticed I had stopped looking forward to playing games, but ever since I started playing arena I started looking forward to new seasons starting again – I love the fact I can play my old faithfuls and keep them in wrapped up warm in the cold winter months. Also I believe my short game and riding improved in the arena because you are constantly involved and there is no end of stopping and turning.
Representing Ireland at 18 goal level in The Beaufort International Test Match 2015
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Sebastian captained the victorious Horse Sport Ireland team in 2016 Sebastian has represented Ireland in 2015 and 2016 playing against England at the Beaufort International. Last year he captained the side to victory as Horse Sport Ireland at 15 goal level, beating Piaget Young England 7-6 A: In 2015 we played at 18 goal level and it was one of the best games I have ever played in – plus I got to play with my cousin Richard Tyrone, so to go out and play again plus Captain the side to victory in 2016 was a real honour for me.
Q: Where is your ultimate polo destination and why? A: I love Mexico very much and I have been going there on and off for the last 15 years. I played for England on two tours and got to play in the heart of Mexico City at the Campo Martin Stadium. I also managed the beautiful coastal Costa Careyes Polo Club and now I’m the Polo School Director for La Patrona Polo Club, set off the Pacific coast just 40 minutes from Puerto Vallarta. The weather is beautiful and the local Mexican people are extremely hospitable, warm and kind. Q: How has the game evolved since you first started playing professionally? A: When I started playing the teams were based very much together and the horses were owned by the team and your salary was for the year. Now it’s a bit more dog eat dog, with some patrons playing ad hoc tournaments and playing per game fees. Q: Anybody in particular you would like to thank? A: I have to mention Paul Sweeney who was my good friend and while I ran his arena polo club at Ash Farm for three years he knew my dream was to have my own place and he found my polo farm for me, Broadoak Farm – I will always be incredibly grateful for this and I miss him very much. Also I was very fortunate to have the support of Sara Hale who I used to teach at Ash Farm. Sara was based at the farm and we played under Broadoak, winning many tournaments over eight years including the Farewell Cup at Cowdray, the Tally Ho 10 Goal Festival three times and many internal tournaments at our home Club, The Berkshire.
Q: How was the match for you? The match was fantastic and we played as a team right from the first throw-in, we really, really wanted it and had some fantastic coaching in both 2015 and 2016 from Jacinto Crotto to get us there. Q: Why do you think the selectors chose you? A: I have over 30 Caps for Ireland and I’ve been heavily involved with the squad throughout my career. Q: Can you sum up the day in 5 words? A: Thrilling, camaraderie, spirit, pride… passion.
Q: Describe yourself in 5 words. A: Passionate, loyal… quite old fashioned! It would be unfair not to mention my wife Louisa, who’s patience and support is never ending! We are both extremely excited about expecting our first child in July.
The launch of Dawnay Polo Saddle Winning the 10 Goal Festival in 2015, produced by Berney Brothers of Polo at RCBPC in 2015 for Broadoak Farm with Sara Hale of Ireland
SebastianDawnay@playmakerpolo sebastian_dawnay
Sebastian coaching at the Aspen Valley Polo Club, Colorado in 2016
Sebastian Coaching at La Patrona Polo Club in Mexico where he is Director of the Polo School
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Feature
Club Catch-Up
Club Catch-Up As the ponies are coming back into work and preparations are well underway for the forthcoming outdoor season, the Home Office decision on visas and the subsequent unfolding drama has had many writing off the 2017 season before it has already started. We caught-up with some clubs, both arena and outdoor, big and smaller, to find out what they think at the cusp of one of the most debated about seasons on record.
BEAUFORT POLO CLUB Caspar West, Polo Manager
Q: What initiatives and steps have Beaufort Polo Club taken following the Home Office amended criteria to VISAs? A: As far as it goes for us it will be business as usual (hopefully!). Of course, we are still a little bit unsure of how everything will come together as some aspects are not entirely decided, but we are looking to “Keep Calm and Carry On” for the 2017 season. We have a good base of members that are not necessarily reliant on overseas help, or at least not totally, so we will endeavour to help as much as possible to continue. As we have quite a few DIY liveries based at the Club itself, we are trying to get a few more local players and helpers to assist where they can with management and overseeing of operations for some of the set-ups. Q: What will the impact be? A: Initially we will be expecting a slightly slow start as the Home Office decisions will have delayed a few getting their horses in and fit, but that will be about the worst. The beginning of the season is reasonably unpredictable anyway as the weather does control how quickly some want to get going unless they are needing to be ready for some of the early Victor Ludorum matches.
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This year we will also miss a few at the very start who are involved in the FIP qualifiers in France too. Regarding entries and memberships, we will just have to wait and see what the impact will be. Q: What is new for Beaufort for 2017? A: We were very lucky in 2016 to have Justerini & Brooks as sponsor of the Arthur Lucas Cup and for 2017 they have now extended this sponsorship to also include the Prince of Wales Cup and our Cocktail Party. The dates for the Gloucestershire Festival of Polo have now been confirmed as 10 – 11 June and we will have as usual the Beaufort International, Charity Matches, the Javier Novillo-Astrada Under 15 Memorial Cup, as well as other exciting games and its regular attractions. Q: Which aspects of the 2017 season are you looking forward to? A: Getting warmer and drier! Obviously we may be looking at expecting a few things to be different, but the kind autumn and dry winter has allowed the grounds to be looking better than ever for a busy summer and as I said, it will be business as usual here.
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Club Catch-Up
Feature
CIRENCESTER PARK POLO CLUB Tim Keyte, Polo Manager
Q: What initiatives and steps have Cirencester Park Polo Club taken following the Home Office amended criteria to VISAs? A: The changes to the visa criteria have been sudden and severe and I don’t think there is anyone in polo in the UK who has not been affected by them in some way. However, I think the uncertainty was the worst part and now that we have a decision we have to pull together as the small, close-knit community we are and make sure that outside influences from the Home Office or indeed anything else, do not have a detrimental effect on our wonderful sport. There are two main problems that the new criteria pose; low goal grooms who are unable to return and low goal players. To accommodate for less grooms, Cirencester have taken the initiative to offer more full livery availability within the Park, which means those who have lost their grooms can put their string in livery in the heart of the Park for hassle free polo. We are also offering training for any new local grooms who need to learn more about polo. From the player aspect, we need to protect
the low goal and grass roots polo. This is not a new initiative at Cirencester, it is something we have been nurturing for some years now, with the introduction of the Academy, beginners tournaments and an ‘Academy Membership’. For 2017, we will also be expanding upon the low goal leagues and encouraging more visiting teams at this level. Q: What is new for Cirencester for 2017? A: 2017 is going to be a big year for Cirencester as we turn on the water! Irrigation is now available to Ivy Lodge, Meadow, Peddington, Soushi, Savannah and Aston Down. It is an extremely exciting time and we are looking forward to having it all in action. We will have some new low goal leagues to keep the low goal competitive and fun right to the end of the season. Q: Which aspects of the 2017 season are you looking forward to? A: We are really sad about those players and grooms who will not be returning for
the 2017 season, many have been a part of the Cirencester family for over a decade. However, the decision is out of our control and we have to look forward; we are looking forward to seeing some new teams; we have some new members for 2017, new players based in the Park and inevitably due to the changes there will be changed teams. With irrigation, we now have the grounds to rival the best clubs in the country and the tournaments also and we can’t wait to get the 2017 season underway.
COWDRAY PARK POLO CLUB Chris Bethell, Polo Manager
Q: What initiatives and steps have Cowdray Park Polo Club taken following the Home Office amended criteria to VISAs? A: It will be very much business as usual at Cowdray Park. We are looking forward to a vibrant Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup season and, with the eyes of the world upon us, as ever intend to show off our grounds and facilities to the best advantage. At the other end of the spectrum, in recent years we have made great efforts to increase the amount of low goal polo available to entry level patrons and players. We have five 4 goal tournaments – one every month of the season – and in the past two years have introduced two new 6 goal tournaments. We don’t want to see our efforts in this direction diminished and will work hard to ensure all the tournaments get played. Q: What will the impact be? A: Naturally there will be fewer Argentine players on the scene, but this will give a chance for the young British players to get some more games and tournament experience under their belts.
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Q: What is new for Cowdray Park Polo Club for 2017? A: We have redeveloped the Ambersham 3 ground. It will have light use in 2017, but will be fully operational in 2018. We’ve also put in new pony lines. A pony washdown area has also been installed at Ambersham. Cowdray Park Polo Club’s Academy at Madams Farm is working hard to feed new playing members into the Club. However, our most important new development is that the Club is introducing Weekend Polo for the 2017 season. This exciting new initiative starts on Saturday 13 May and will be available most weekends of the season. All players must be a 2017 playing member of the HPA and also a member of an affiliated Club in the UK. Please contact the Club for dates and guidelines for this initiative.
CirenCester P Polo Club Polo Times, March 2017
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Feature
Club Catch-Up
DRUIDS LODGE POLO CLUB Tae Omerod, Treasurer
Q: What initiatives and steps have the Druids Lodge Polo Club taken following the Home Office amended criteria to VISAs? A: With the staffing complications players are now facing added to the increased transport regulations, we feel that onsite livery is making more and more sense. Catering for those needs is a main focus for us, whether that be full livery, part livery, schooling assistance or groom training.
as imported help. Horses can and will be looked after as well and better than ever before, where the time can be put into the training.
Q: What will the impact be? A: We are fortunate at Druids in that nearly all our plus goal and professional players are homegrown, so the impact on quality of polo should be largely unaffected. Where grooms are concerned, we firmly believe homegrown workers are every bit as capable
Q: Which aspects of the 2017 season are you looking forward to? A: Plenty of fun competitive low goal polo and watching our members become better players. Introducing more people to this great game. Seeing another generation of our home bred ponies take to the field.
Q: What is new for the Club for 2017? A: Having been working in London for the last year, Eden [Omerod] is now back on the team. Adding to our coaching and training capacity as well as to the polo at the Club.
GUARDS POLO CLUB Antony Fanshawe, Polo Manager Q: What initiatives and steps have Guards Polo Club taken following the Home Office amended criteria to VISAs? A: All players were asked by the Hurlingham Polo Association to stay clear of the visa discussions and let them lead the negotiations. So Guards Polo Club has followed this advice and focused on supporting the HPA in its endeavours with the Home Office. Q: What will the impact be? A: I believe that most of our players have sorted their groom issues and are gearing up for the season. It is sad that some familiar faces will be missing this season, but we hope that they will return to Guards Polo Club in the future. With the recent news that Hildon is to support the Archie David Cup (6 June – 2 July) from this season, the 8 goal has received a massive boost and we are looking forward to a great year. It really is business as usual at Guards Polo Club in 2017. Q: What is new for Guards for 2017? A: We have completed extensive drainage work on all the polo fields at Coworth Park and Flemish Farm, ensuring that these grounds will be in perfect condition for this coming season,
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whatever the weather. In addition to the exciting news about Hildon sponsoring the Archie David Cup, Guards Polo Club is expanding its Copenhagen Cup Tournament (20 – 21 May), with nine schools invited to take part for the first time. Of course, everyone is very excited about Mosimann’s coming in to run the Clubhouse this year too. In fact, the players are clearly going to have to up their game to match the standard of food and hospitality in our Clubhouse! Q: Which aspects of the 2017 season are you looking forward to? A: I am very interested to see what these new rules are going to do to the game. I am hoping that we will start to see how important good polo is to the continuance of the game. It is time the pro’s realise that they need to use their patrons as players, as hitting the ball is part of the game and a big reason why people love to play polo and, win or lose, return year after year to the fields of play. I also have to admit that I cannot wait to see if Cambiaso can win The Cartier Queen’s Cup (23 May – 18 June) with his new team – RH Polo.
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Club Catch-Up
Feature
ROYAL COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE POLO CLUB Michael Amoore, General Manager Q: What initiatives and steps have RCBPC taken following the Home Office amended criteria to VISAs? A: What an opening it has been with all the real worries on the visa front which now, thankfully, have been worked out for both the medium and high goal levels of polo. However news is still being awaited at the other levels, hopefully good news will be forthcoming and a great season of polo will follow.
This means less team travelling and importantly, more and better grounds for all teams. In addition, whilst it will keep the period in which to play the tournament (matches may not start until 9 or 10 May) shorter, it still gives a realistic timescale to teams in their preparations, especially should the visa situation have effected their initial plans. As always, the Finals will take place at RCBPC.
Q: What will the impact be? A: Even at this stage of uncertainty I stay very confident in the English polo player, who by hook or by crook, he or she will do their utmost to make a season of polo a success under all circumstances. We have been there before and succeeded, therefore I stay a firm believer that we can all do the same again. I think it stays in our DNA.
Q: Which aspects of the 2017 season are you looking forward to? A: As I write, The Arena Gold Cup 2017 supported by Tally Ho Farm, British Polo Gin, The Polo Magazine and Polo Times is underway. An amazing seven high goal arena teams have entered this season›s Arena Gold Cup which equals the same number as was seen in 2008. The three Finals for Bronze, Silver and Gold Cups will be played on Saturday 25 Feb in the Berkshire›s arena with complimentary grandstand seating. No sooner has our arena season ended than eyes start to look to the summer. All will be ready to start on the weekend of the 29 April. Eyes will turn towards the first of our new grounds, where a carpet of green awaits for some timely chukkas
Q: What is new for RCBPC for 2017? A: For this year’s Prince of Wales Trophy 6 – 20 May I am delighted to say that Cowdray Park have generously undertaken to run a league / group for their high goal teams who wish to play in the tournament and are based at Cowdray. In the meantime, we will be running the same for high goal teams in our area.
or to a further area for members to enjoy a stick and ball. Like all new ventures, it will be weather dependent as the maturity of the grass is so key to being able to enjoy the facility. Meanwhile, work will continue to bring the second, full sized field into line for seeding at the end of this summer. Our busy and successful Fixture List remains very much the same. It includes a wealth of Club Polo at 0, 2 ,4, 6 and beyond. Even now, the confirmation on reserved stables for the summer is increasing on a daily basis. Hopefully this bodes well for the coming season, even with the uncertainties that are tending to linger in the air.
RUTLAND POLO CLUB Robert Dale, Hon. Secretary
Q: What initiatives and steps have Rutland Polo Club taken following the Home Office amended criteria to VISAs? A: The new visa restrictions introduced by the Home Office will not adversely affect any teams based at Rutland Polo Club, as these have always used English professional players. But it is yet to be seen what impact there might be on visiting teams, many of whom have relied upon overseas players to enhance their team’s performance. We have not, in any way, altered the schedule for our tournaments compared to previous seasons. Q: What is new for Rutland Polo Club for 2017? A: We are looking forward to welcoming teams once again, to the prestigious Westerby
Assam Cup, with its Final on Sunday 2 July. Which, being part of the national Victor Ludorum competition, will be eagerly contested. We expect the professional players based at Rutland, Tom Collie, the Polo Manager, and Ed Winterton, to have many more commitments to replace overseas players in teams playing within our general area. There will be an increase in the number of Club matches from two in 2016, to five in 2017. As in previous years, Lesley MaxfieldGullett will be leading these. Following the appointment of Ed Winterton as the Club’s Chukka Manager, our members will be able to benefit from regular mid-week chukkas on our main grounds. There will also be instructional chukkas, and some weekend chukkas held on a nearby practice ground. The Club is aware of
the importance of being able to offer members the opportunity to advance their umpiring skills and accordingly will be arranging Umpire Training with a regional HPA umpire. Q: Which aspects of the 2017 season are you looking forward to? A: In 2016, the responsibility for running the Cottesmore Pony Club Polo returned to Rutland Polo Club, managed on our behalf by Anna Hunt and Camilla Speed. We are delighted to say that this was a great success, with even larger numbers of young players expected for 2017. It is really encouraging to report that a number of the Cottesmore Pony Club members played in our adult tournaments. This, they found, allowed them to develop even more rapidly than solely playing at Pony Club level.
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Polo Times, March 2017
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Feature
Row For James
Row For James
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Polo Times, March 2017
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Row For James
Feature
The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge is a 3,000 mile unsupported race from the Canary Islands to English Harbour, Antigua. In December 2016, four friends, Harry Wentworth-Stanley, Rory Buchanan, Toby Fenwicke-Clennell and Sam Greenly set out to take on “The toughest race on earth” in memory of James Wentworth-Stanley and to raise funds for The James Wentworth-Stanley Memorial Fund (JWSMF), exactly 10 years after James’ death. After 39 days, 4 hours and 14 minutes, the team had raised over £570,000 and were welcomed into English harbour by emotional family and friends. Polo Times caught-up with Harry, Rory, Toby and Sam to hear about their monumental Atlantic adventure.
Row For James arrival L-R Rory Buchanan, Toby Fenwicke-Clennell, Sam Greenly & Harry Wentworth-Stanley
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Polo Times, March 2017
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Row For James
Q: What was your hardest moment? Harry Wentworth-Stanley (HW-S): Telling my poor Mum that I wanted to row the Atlantic, knowing full well that I was going to put her through misery! Rory Buchanan (RB): Very early on, we realised that we were going to have serious issues making and then storing power. I remember this being particularly difficult to take on board, because for all the mental and physical preparation we had gone through, serious equipment failure was something that I had not prepared myself for. Toby Fenwicke-Clennell (TF-C): The moment we knew we were not going to be able to catch Latitude 35. Sam Greenly (SG): I can’t think of one moment in particular. I was very lucky as there was no one point that I really hated or found overwhelmingly hard. However, the nights during the middle part of the challenge were fairly testing due to fatigue and monotony. Q: Did giving up ever cross your mind? HW-S: Absolutely not. RB: Never. TF-C: No, never. SG: No. Q: What was it like rowing at night? HW-S: I preferred rowing at night to during the day. I found it easier to get into a rhythm and let the mind wander. It might sound a bit cliché, but the night skies were breath-taking and like nothing any of us had ever seen before. At times, we’d find ourselves transfixed staring up at the thousands of bright stars glaring down on us. RB: Night time was my favourite time to row. During the day, there is surprisingly little to focus on beyond the waves but when during a clear night I knew I could concentrate on the stars and be alone with my thoughts, and it was incredibly peaceful. TF-C: The light of the night’s sky plays tricks on the mind with the shade separation between sky, cloud and sea. Each night I felt like I was rowing on a different water, from white water rapid to tree lined canals but strangely never felt like it was the middle of the ocean! SG: Rowing at night had its highs and lows. Some evenings it was fantastic, we would make real headway whilst loving every minute of it. The feeling of speed seemed to be exaggerated at night especially when the wind and waves were in our favour, giving the feeling that we were flying along. Other nights were the bleakest. The darkness made it hard and sometimes impossible to see the waves, causing the boat to be thrown about making it hard to get a constant rowing stroke in without smashing our shins on the oars. The fatigue made this even harder at times. However, towards the end of the trip I began to look forward to the nights due to the tranquility and ability to just focus on rowing rather than the daily distractions that occurred during the day time, such as blog writing (for Rory), cooking and the general maintenance of the boat. 30
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The James Wentworth-Stanley Memorial Fund (JWSMF) Charming, funny, good looking, confident, popular, athletic, intelligent...James was all of the above and so much more, he really had it all. He was in his second year at Newcastle University, 21-years-old, and full of life. James had a minor operation to correct a varicocele – an abnormal enlargement of the veins draining one of his testicles. He was informed by the surgeon that the operation had been a 100% success and that he needed to let the ‘old man’ rest for a few days. Despite this, he became increasingly anxious that his operation had been the one-in-amillion case of failure. Ten days later, on 15th December 2006, at the age of 21, he made the most tragic and irreversible decision – to end his life. Like so many young men and women who choose to end their lives, James had so much to live for. James had no history of mental illness nor depression. He was not a heavy drinker nor a drug user. Ten days following a minor operation, James’ decline from being his normal, happy self to being anxious, depressed and ultimately suicidal was rapid and those close to him were unable to appreciate the severity of what was happening. Following his death, The James Wentworth-Stanley Memorial fund was set-up by James’ parents to help raise awareness of anxiety, depression and suicide amongst young people and to tackle the terrible and shocking statistic that suicide is the leading cause of death amongst young men in the UK – Every year more than 6,000 people in the UK take their own lives…(in 2015, the figure was 6,188 deaths by suicide, a slight rise from, 6,122 in 2014) – and 22 per cent of them are men aged between 16 and 24. Over the past 9 years The JWSMF has done a great deal to combat these terrifying statistics and now they are extremely excited to be setting up the first pilot in a series of non-clinical crisis centres for those at high risk of suicide, to be known as ‘James’ Place’. There are high running costs for each centre and the Row For James team aimed to raise funds to cover the establishment and operating costs of at least one centre.
Q: Would you ever fall asleep when you were rowing? HW-S: My problem was not falling asleep at night; it was trying to wake up before my rowing shifts. RB: I found I could concentrate harder at night as long as the stars were out, so I found it pretty easy to stay awake. TF-C: I wasn’t too bad whilst rowing but I did have a few moments when hand steering at night. Staring into a compass lit by the dim light of a head torch can become very hypnotic. There was a time when I thought I was dead on the right heading and couldn’t work out why Rory and Sam were frantically rowing in an attempt to swing the boat around. Turns out I had fallen asleep at the helm and not noticed that I was perfectly 100 degrees off where I should be. SG: At night, yes. For me personally there were times that I would do this quite regularly but not realise I was doing it. I would still be moving but my oars would go all over the place and not resemble anything like a proper rowing stroke. This became known as, ‘being in the zone’. Q: Did you talk about food a lot? HW-S: Non-stop! We would describe food in such detail that we could almost taste it. RB: We tried to avoid it at all costs, but at around two weeks from land we talked about food every day, which was a huge mistake! TF-C: Constantly! I’m not sure any other topic had more airtime. SG: For the last two weeks’ food was on the forefront of everyone’s minds, down to the smallest of details. It took over our thoughts and definitely became the most common topic of conversation. Burgers, fresh fruit, home
Photography by Ben Duffy
Feature
cooked favourites, even foods we probably didn’t even like. As long as it wasn’t freezedried it was dreamt about, fantasised about and idolised. Q: So what was the food like? HW-S: Took a bit of getting used to, and once used to it, you were bored of the lack of variety! RB: At the beginning, the food was bearable although most of us had little appetite. During the few days in which we were rationing gas we had to hydrate food with cold water, meaning it took a real effort to get most meals down. Towards the end though, you could have put anything in front of us and it wouldn’t have lasted very long. TF-C: Personally, not to too bad, but I’ve never had a problem with eating, whatever the food. SG: Food became fuel and nothing else. We had about five or six different flavours of food, however, we were eating many meals a day, so the variation was very limited. We would often eat the same meal twice a day and this made the experience of eating extremely mundane. This was a similar case with our snack packs, which www.polotimes.co.uk
Feature
The team, sponsored by Orleber Brown, raised a record-breaking amount in aid of JWSMF. L-R: Harry Wentworth-Stanley, Sam Greenly, Toby Fenwicke-Clennell & Rory Buchanan
consisted of chocolate, sweets and cereal bars. Chocolate definitely became the most valuable currency on the boat and my one chocolate bar a day became my most valued item. Q: So apart from food, what else did you talk about? HW-S: Cooking. Good restaurants. RB: Anything that came into our head – some conversations were more profound than others! TF-C: The future. SG: Everything, however silly or bizarre, it was talked about in some way shape or form. Q: Did you prepare yourselves mentally for the journey? HW-S: Not specifically. The best mental preparation we gave ourselves was doing a 6-day training row in the North Sea, adopting the same routine as we would on the Atlantic, and providing an opportunity to simulate some of the challenges we would encounter. RB: Although we put considerable hours in to prepare ourselves physically, it was hugely difficult to prepare ourselves mentally. We did put ourselves through a 6-day training row www.polotimes.co.uk
into headwinds in the North Sea, this was probably the toughest training we completed prior to the start but helped us to prepare for what was to come. TF-C: We didn’t go to see any mind coaches, if that’s what you mean. However, we were already very close friends and discussed at length what it is we wanted out of the race individually, so we all knew where each one of us stood when it came to tough times at sea. I think this individual understanding of each teammate was very important and key to our success as a team. SG: We did no specific mental training before the row, though throughout the course of our fairly extensive training I think we subconsciously developed our mental preparation. The training saw us row 36 hours on rowing machines in Canary Wharf and complete various training rows culminating in a 6-day training row up and down the east coast of the UK. Q: What was the biggest challenge you faced? HW-S: We had to ration power the whole way across as our batteries did not recharge to
reasonable levels for the entire crossing. Most days we would get just enough charge in the batteries from our solar panels to make water (using our desalinator) and run the autohelm (allowing the boat to be steered via the GPS rather than by hand). On good days, we might have enough power to charge up our iPods as well and listen to some music. On bad days, we were rationing water and having to hand-steer! It certainly made our crossing more challenging. RB: Getting to the start line was an incredibly difficult challenge in itself. With well over a year of physical training, campaigning, PR, sponsorship and purchasing hundreds of individual bits of equipment, whilst also doing your day job, it was a tough year even before we reached the Canary Islands. TF-C: When we found ourselves competitive for the number one spot, my goal for the row shifted to focusing on the win as I realised it could be in our reach. The hardest part after that was then coming to terms with the fact we weren’t going to win, when Latitude’s lead increased to a level we would not be able to claw back, due to the weather we had at the time. Remembering what the original goal Polo Times, March 2017
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Feature
Row For James
was (to raise money and awareness for James’ Place and the cause) and not feeling as if I had failed by not winning was tough, however, we had smashed our original goal and it was skipper Harry who helped me realise this and remember why we were on the Atlantic in the first place. SG: The biggest challenge was getting to the start line. The organisation and preparation required to row across the Atlantic is mind boggling and far greater than anyone expects. Coupled with fund raising, gaining sponsorship, the physical training and holding down our normal day jobs proved extremely challenging and took over a year of non-stop work. Q: Did anyone get knocked overboard? HW-S: Most of my few possessions seemed to, but the four of us managed to stay on the boat at all times! RB: No, although we came pretty close a few times. When the night was at its darkest it was always difficult to pick up the crest of a wave, and we were sometimes caught off-guard. Every so often a wave would crash down on top of the boat whilst we were rowing, but we knew as long as we were strapped on, the boat could roll and we would be ok. TF-C: No, although I was very close on a number of occasions. I had lost all coordination in my legs towards the end and my ability to walk a whole 6ft down the boat left much to be desired. SG: No, however on several occasions we were knocked off our seats, fell off our seats whilst sleeping or were knocked off our feet whilst moving around the boat. The ‘jack-stays’ which are the straps that run the length of the boat allow you to support yourself when moving around or when being thrown around whilst rowing, ensured that none of us were knocked totally overboard. Q: Were there any arguments amongst you? HW-S: Never a crossword. RB: No. TF-C: No. There were a few occasions where we brought up small things that were niggling each other but we knew before we got on the boat that if this was the case we would talk about it straight away and we stuck to that. Talking about things before they become an issue was crucial – the result, we never had an argument. SG: No, we were extremely lucky and this is a testament to our friendship but also the characters on the boat. Harry took this into deep consideration whilst picking the team, and our training rows and time spent preparing for the race definitely helped. We had a policy that if we were to get annoyed with one another we were to raise the issue and solve it immediately. Q: Was there a leader? HW-S: Officially I was skipper, but it’s fair to say that Sam’s leadership qualities from the army and his Sandhurst training were 32
Polo Times, March 2017
At the start-line in the Canary Islands
invaluable. Without them we might still be out there! RB: We each naturally took on different roles on the boat, part due to our own skillsets and more importantly our rowing positions. As the skipper, Harry’s word was final but we never reached a point where opinions were split on the boat. TF-C: Harry was our skipper, but Sam had ownership and voice of navigation. SG: Harry was the captain and therefore would be responsible for the final decision if there was a split-decision. Again, luckily this was never really needed as we discussed everything as a team and always came to a solid solution that everyone was in agreement with. Q: What were your favourite memories? HW-S: Our last night on the water. A sea so flat it was like a mirror, reflecting an entire sky of stars, with phosphorescent plankton lighting up the water every time our oars touched it. As the sun came up Antigua came into view on the horizon and six pilot whales swam past the boat. Pretty amazing! RB: The feeling of rowing at 5 knots, crashing through huge waves, with the night sky so bright full of stars that you could have read a book without a torch, is one that I will never forget. TF-C: Being on the oars with Rory and outrunning a storm. Completely exhilarating – we were flying! SG: Rowing at night when we had good wind and waves in our favour provide some great memories, but my overall favourite memories weren’t created because of the amazing surroundings or the feeling of flying over the water, it was being able to experience these things whilst in the company of my teammates and be able to share the experience with them. Q: What item could you not have done without? HW-S: Tania Richardson & Redwing PR. Our PR team come team manager/shoulder to cry on! We honestly could not have done it without her. RB: Our waterproof beanbag. After losing 11 kilos, I was left with very little cushion of my own to sit on whilst hand-steering, so this was a real saviour.
TF-C: Shin pads, shin pads, shin pads! SG: A daily chocolate bar! Q: What was it like when you arrived in Antigua? HW-S: The most amazing and overwhelming experience. We were all literally crippled by emotion and adrenaline – we were shaking so much we could barely stand up! RB: I still struggle to put the feeling into words when asked. Thankfully I managed to get all my tears out during the half an hour before we reached the pontoon, but I have never felt anything remotely near what I felt when we saw those huge crowds for the first time. TF-C: The most incredible moment of my life. It’s been a very long year and at times very tough with a lot of sacrifices having to be made leading up to the start line. However, the experience of crossing that ocean and the pure elation when coming around the headland into English Harbour made it all completely worth it. SG: Amazing. We had run through the finish so many times in our heads and wondered what it would be like, and it far exceeded any expectations. For our friends and family, the last year or so has been a lot of work, a lot of sacrifices have been made and especially whilst we were on the row it was a very nerveracking time especially for our parents and girlfriends, so to be able to see them and share the experience with them was fantastic and a feeling I will never forget. The party didn’t seem to stop for some time! Q: Who were the first people who greeted you off the boat? HW-S: Mum, dad, sister and girlfriend! RB: My mum and dad, and both my sisters. There are some pretty incredible photos of each of those four hugs, and each one makes me cry even now when I look at them! TF-C: It was all a bit of a haze through the waterworks but I believe it was mum and dad. SG: We were first greeted by Carsten, the owner of Atlantic Campaigns, (the company whom organize the race). This was very fitting as he was the last hand we shook before rowing out of La Gomera and the first hand that greeted us in Antigua. Following this we all went straight for our families. www.polotimes.co.uk
Row For James Q: How easy was it getting back to normal eating and sleeping patterns? HW-S: A few days partying in Antigua meant the sleep deprivation continued a little longer than it should have. RB: Eating was the easy bit, although we hadn’t realised how much our stomachs had shrunk. I took quite a while and a few rough nights before I could sleep right through until morning. TF-C: I still don’t think I have! Constantly eating and frequently looking for a midday nap! SG: Eating normal food again was amazing and even now two weeks later I am still eating masses. On the boat, we were eating six times a day and snacking inbetween so I have found it hard to go straight back to just three meals a day as I am forever feeling starving. In regards to sleep, the first week I found it very easy to return to normal, however after the first week we all found ourselves to be knackered for some time. Q: Would you describe it as a life changing event? HW-S: Without doubt. RB: Absolutely. TF-C: A change in perspective, yes. SG: It has definitely made me realize there
is so much more to do in life and so many opportunities to take and make the most of. It also showed how kind people can be, our support throughout has been mind blowing. Our family and friends went above and beyond but also people who we had never met were fantastic and really kept us going and reminded us of the importance of what we were doing it for. Q: Would you ever consider doing anything like this again? HW-S: I’m definitely up for more challenges, but probably not rowing! RB: In a heartbeat. TF-C: I would love to take on another challenge but it would need to take less time to prepare for and undergo. SG: Yes, 100%. This trip in particular was such a success in every sense; the team, the speed in which we completed it and most importantly the money and awareness we raised, that I would never try to recreate it. But I would definitely try and find a challenge of this magnitude to do again. Q: Describe the experience in three words? HW-S: Exhausting, exhilarating, extraordinary. RB: Hallucinations, macaroni, Boris.
Feature
TF-C: Unforgettable and fulfilling. SG: Incredible, enlightening, friendship. Q: Describe your teammates in five words? HW-S: Reliable, relentless, ridiculous, repetitive, rare. RB: Sam – Hammock-wearing, rowlockmending navigator; Harry – spirit-lifting, deepsleeping fisherman & Toby – never-ending, backbreaking machine. TF-C: Individually strong, a force together. SG: It’s too hard to come up with five words to describe them as I don’t think individual words do them justice. The best way to do it is to say that if it wasn’t for every single one of them we wouldn’t have done what we have, this includes Tania and Camilla, our PR team and also the many kind and generous individuals such as Alice Dewey, who helped us throughout the campaign. They stepped up to the mark and each one added the vital bit of value required for it all to work so well.
find out more about Row For James, visit To www.rowforjames.com and to understand more about The James Wentworth-Stanley Memorial Fund visit jwsmf.org
The race took the team 39 days, 4 hours & 14 minutes
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Polo Times, March 2017
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Reports
Photograph by People of Polo: Andrew Yates
The Final of the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz between Cartier and Badrutt’s Palace was fast-paced and thrilling
1ST PLACE CARTIER
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2ND PLACE (16)
BADRUTT’S PALACE (15)
Rommy Gianni
(1)
Melissa Ganzi
(0)
Charlie Wooldridge
(2)
Jesse Bray
(5)
Chris Hyde
(6)
Alejandro Novillo Astrada (8)
Dario Musso
(7)
Tito Gaudenzi
Polo Times, March 2017
(2)
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Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz
Reports
Cartier Clinch It! The red shirts of Cartier reclaimed the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz title at the end of January after three days of fierce competition on the frozen lake of St. Moritz
I
Cartier, take on Team Perrier-Jouët. Cartier were the favourites in the tournament, as in a change from last year, they had the 2016 victorious patron Rommy Gianni at the helm, alongside Brit Charlie Wooldridge, with the unrelenting goal scoring force of Chris Hyde and Dario Musso as their professionals. The change in line up worked and in a return to their previous style, they characteristically led and sealed the deal with a 7-4 victory. Next-up, it was the turn of the Beh family from Malaysia, in the form of father James Beh and his three sons, Joevy, Chevy and Garvy, who were all new to snow polo in St. Moritz playing as Team Maserati. They took on the formidable Team Badrutt’s Palace who were once again headed up by Melissa Ganzi, who made her St. Moritz debut last year and snow polo regular Tito Gaudenzi. True to form they dominated from the start, with the dynamic duo of Alejandro Novillo Astrada and Jesse Bray, navigating Team Badrutt’s Palace to a confident final score of 7-1. Day Two dawned, with the weekend bringing a new influx of crowds to the sundrenched grandstands, to enjoy another duo of matches, which would ultimately decide the qualifying teams for Sunday’s Final. First up, Team Badrutt’s Palace locked horns with Team Perrier-Jouët, who having lost to the tournament favourites, Cartier, most certainly had something to prove. Once again, Team Badrutt’s Palace led the scores from the outset, and this early lead combined with many near misses from Team Perrier-
f you have never been to the beautiful Engadin Valley and the resort of St. Moritz for the Snow Polo World Cup, you need to get your diary out for January 2018 now. The event is unlike anything else and should be on everybody’s polo must see list, particularly when the resort is bathed in sunshine and furs are more for the aesthetic then necessity. Polo Times were Official Media partners of the event, not only reporting from the heart of the action, but also providing the daily match reports to the organisers for distribution to the world’s press. The saying goes that the sun shines on the righteous and the organiser of this event, Reto Gaudenzi ‘The Godfather of Snow Polo’ has clearly pleased a higher being as the glorious weather lasted for all three days of the world-famous competition, meaning that the playing surface was pure perfection, allowing fast and thrilling polo to delight the 15,000 spectators. The grandstands were packed as spectators sipped Perrier-Jouët, snuggly wrapped in Cartier blankets cheering on their favourite teams and enjoying the fun-filled atmosphere as Maserati cars chauffeured VIP guests and players to the frozen lake from the six star hotels and exclusive chalets. The alpine polo bonanza kicked off on Friday 27 January with the first two qualifying matches of the Snow Polo World Cup seeing last year’s runners-up, Team
3RD PLACE
Jouët finally culminated in a 6-2 victory for Team Badrutt’s Palace and a place in the Final. The next match of the day between Team Cartier, featuring 2016 winners Rommy Gianni and Dario Musso defeated Team Maserati to win The Deutsche Bank Wealth Management Challenge and secure their place in the Final. This year, the surface was made of artificial snow which, it was explained, has a higher tolerance to preparation. This had resulted in a superb playing surface which played exceptionally well and allowed fast, flowing, fluent play that was fun to play on. Team Cartier player and St. Moritz expert Chris ‘The Prof ’ Hyde described the surface as, “The best it has ever been and playing really fast”. So, three days celebrating the best snow polo in the world reached its culmination on Finals Day. The first match of the day was between Team Perrier-Jouët and Team Maserati for The La Martina Cup. In a close scoring match it was ultimately Team Perrier-Jouët who secured the title with a final score of 5-4. Post-match, Fabio Meier, conceded the match was as tough as the score suggested, “Maserati played well, they played aggressively and didn’t make it an easy game for us, so that’s why I am unbelievably happy that we won. As a team, I think we played well over the three days”. As the sun continued to bathe the Engadin Valley in glory, The Cartier Cup, the stunning trophy for the ultimate winners
4TH PLACE
TEAM PERRIER-JOUËT (15)
TEAM MASERATI
(16)
Fabian Bolanterio
(5)
James Beh
(1)
Luca Meier
(2)
Joevy Beh
(5)
Lucas Labat
(7)
Chevy Beh
(5)
Fabio Meier
(1)
Garvy Beh
(5)
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Polo Times, March 2017
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Reports
Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz
of the tournament was won by Team Cartier themselves after a Final which saw them pitted against Team Badrutt’s Palace. The match was an epic Final which reflected the fierce three-day competition, and with special permission from Engadin Airport, was filmed by a drone for the first time. The first chukka saw no score as the teams matched each other equally in defence and attack, but it was a different story in the second chukka which saw Cartier assert their dominance with three goals from Chris Hyde and Dario Musso and only one in reply from Alejandro Novillo Astrada for Badrutt’s Palace. The goal scoring genie was well and truly unleashed and determined not to be the underdogs for long, Team Badrutt’s Palace came back fighting after half-time and quickly found the goalmouth twice in quick succession, to equalise the scores at three all. But Charlie Wooldridge for Cartier secured his name on the scorecard and at the end of the third chukka, Cartier once again took the lead. It was all to play for in the last chukka
St. Moritz Stats at a Glance
St. Moritz is truly the birthplace of snow polo, due to the inspirational idea of Reto Gaudenzi, Gionni Berry and Hans Peter Danuser when in 1985 the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz was played for the first time on the frozen lake. Polo is in the resort’s DNA, but the Swiss town also has impressive credentials as a ski destination (twice hosting the Winter Olympic Games and as the polo finished this year, being the venue for the Alpine World Ski Championships in 2017 for the fifth time). Bobsleigh was also invented here, the Cresta Run is a world famous (and very British institution) and just one week after the polo entourage have packed up, the White Turf horseracing takes place on the frozen lake, a tradition started in 1907. of play and it was at this crucial point that the firepower of Team Cartier was unleashed with three goals in quick succession. Alejandro Novillo Astrada scored for Badrutt’s Palace, but it was too little too late and as the final whistle blew, a decisive score of 7-4 in Cartier’s favour was the result. As over 120 representatives of the world’s press gathered at the podium, the Most Valuable Player was fittingly awarded
to Chris Hyde as he celebrated his sixth victory in St. Moritz. The Polo Times Best Playing Pony rug was awarded to his grey mare, Promise. And so the Snow Polo World Cup 2017 drew to a close. 15,000 people had enjoyed thrilling polo, great Engadin hospitality and most importantly, had great fun over the three days. In the words of Team Cartier player Dario Musso fresh from his victory… “See you next year!”
Dario Musso & Charlie Wooldridge celebrate victory
Photograph by People of Polo: Andrew Yates
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Polo Times, March 2017
www.polotimes.co.uk
Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz
Reports
Chukka scores: 0-0, 3-1, 4-3, 7-4 to Cartier
15,000 2 9 7 2 JAN
JAN
EIGHT
BPP Promise, 10-year-old mare owned by Jack Hyde and played by father, Chris Hyde
MVP Chris Hyde
Highest handicapped player on the field – Alejandro Novillo Astrada
Handicaps – Outdoor handicaps are used rather than arena handicaps. For example Chris Hyde plays off 6 goals on snow but is 10 goals in the arena.
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Photography by ©Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com
Number of spectators who gathered over the three days
Polo Times, March 2017
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Reports
Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz
Photograph by ©Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com
Cartier reclaimed the trophy after losing to Maserati in 2016
Saturday 28 January The Maserati Cup: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel defeated Perrier-Jouët, 6-2 Deutsche Bank Wealth Management Challenge Cartier defeated Maserati, 6-2 Sunday 29 January La Martina Cup (Subsidiary Final): Perrier-Jouët defeated Maserati, 5-4 The Cartier Trophy (Final) Cartier defeated Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, 7-4
To read more about Polo Times Best Playing Pony, Promise, turn to our Pony Power pages and to catch-up on all the social from the weekend, turn to our Sidelines pages. Plus to find out what makes Cartier player Dario Musso tick, read our Passions pages
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Polo Times, March 2017
Fun in the Sun! The 15,000 guests who gathered over the three days have been entertained by some outstanding polo, whilst both on and off the frozen lake, guests had enjoyed, fun, laughter and outstanding Swiss hospitality. Pitch side guests were entertained by live music, plenty of champagne from Perrier-Jouët and delicious food. The huge VIP marquee was amazing, with a sit down lunch served every day, superb waiter service and a freely flowing complimentary bar. Guests also enjoyed on tap caviar, mouth watering cheese and macaroons to be enjoyed (not necessarily at the same time!) whilst lounging on fur-clad sofas. The Saturday evening was truly special as the great and the good of St. Moritz enjoyed a sumptuous gala dinner at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel. Guests were entertained by a special Azeri display of dancing and music. Azerbaijan hosts The Polo World Cup in September and the ‘City of Fire’ is known for its friendly people and great hospitality. Guests also enjoyed a catwalk show with models elegantly showcasing the truly breath-taking Magicien Collection from Cartier, with those not playing the next day dancing the night away in the King’s Club. Photograph by Giancarlo Cattaneo
Friday 27 January Cartier defeated Perrier-Jouët, 7-4 Badrutt’s Palace Hotel defeated Maserati, 7-1
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MONTE CARLO POLO TEAM Snow Polo World Cup St Moritz 1st place – World Champions
MONTE CARLO POLO TEAM
IRINA KAZARIDI PHOTOGRAPHY
www.montecarlopoloteam.com
Reports
Photography by ©Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com
Exclusive Rooms and Red river Polo battled it out at Hickstead
Exclusive Rooms Secure Victory Sarah Wiseman Reports on The Images of Polo 5-8 Goal Victor Ludorum
S
unday 12 February saw Exclusive Rooms take on Red River Polo in the Final of the Images of Polo Victor Ludorum 5-8 goal at The All England Polo Club, Hickstead. Despite near-freezing conditions, both teams played with much gusto and the game turned out to be an exciting and fast-paced game. It was great to see such competitive polo played, twinned with jovial sportsmanship from both sets of players. Each team played with determination and matched each other blow
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Polo Times, March 2017
for blow throughout the first three chukkas. Red River Polo sadly were unable to capitalise on a feast of penalties in the first two chukkas, which if they had, would have seen them storm into a healthy lead. Some great teamwork from the Exclusive Rooms side, meant they kept up the pressure throughout the game and took a brief two goal lead in the second chukka. However, Red River Polo fought back and by the end of the third both teams were level at 7-7. Kevin Shaw on Best Playing Pony of
the match, Pancho, went to work early in the fourth and final chukka with two quick goals. The pace of the game lifted as both teams were desperate to clinch victory. Red River Polo’s Daniel Acosta made some high speed runs, but was unable to convert. It was Niall Donnelly for Exclusive Rooms, that scored two more goals to take a convincing 11-7 lead. Red River Polo patron Stephen Burley snuck in a final goal for his side in the last minute of the game, taking the final score to 11-8, but it was too little too late for Red River Polo. The victory was all the more sweet as Exclusive Rooms featured John Bunn, who is the vision behind The All England Polo Club, Hickstead. Exclusive Room’s Niall Donnelly won the Images of Polo Most Valuable Player Award for his goal scoring prowess and Kevin Shaw’s Pancho won the Polo Times Best Playing Pony rug. After the Final, the friendly atmosphere continued as the crowd and players alike tucked into some welcome Chukka Cocktails courtesy of British Polo Gin and a Sunday roast in the Clubhouse. www.polotimes.co.uk
Images of Polo 5-8 Goal, AEPC
Reports
Chukka scores: 2-2, 5-4, 8-7, 11-8 to Exclusive Rooms
Exclusive Rooms Kevin Shaw John Bunn Niall Donnelly
(8) (1) (2) (5)
Exclusive Rooms secured an 11-8 win
MVP Niall Donnelly
Red River Polo Daniel Acosta Nick Clague Stephen Burley
FI
TOP GOAL SCORER Niall Donnelly
NA
(8) (4) (4) (0)
L
12
Mounted umpire: Matthew Pannell Scorekeeper/ unmounted umpire: Ben Sim
BPP
FEB
Pancho, owned and played by Kevin Shaw
To read more about Pancho, please turn to our Pony Power pages and for all the social from the day, please turn to our Sidelines pages.
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Polo Times, March 2017
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Reports
Paul Sweeney Memorial
Georgia Sweeney Reports on The 3 & 8 Goal at Ash Farm he annual Paul Sweeney Memorial Tournament at Ash Farm took place over the weekend 28 – 29 January. Crowds came on both days to cheer on the four teams competing for the trophy in the 3 goal, and the two teams playing in the 8 goal challenge match. R&D Developments Ola Kelly, Ollie Cork and James Mann put up a strong fight to win the 3 goal tournament beating Michael Poppel’s Sau Wild team (and last year’s winners) on the Saturday and then Richard Newman’s Angels in the Final on Sunday with a deciding score of 22-9. Ollie Cork took away The Polo Magazine Most Valuable Player prize having scored 10 of the team’s 22 goals, whilst James Mann’s Chunk won Polo Times Best Playing Pony Award. In the Subsidiary Final, Sau Wild defeated Windlebrook Farm 23-16. 44
Polo Times, March 2017
In the 8 goal, Westley Green Farm took on Cambridge Consultant Associates in a double challenge match. The polo was fun and fast with Howard Smith playing for home team Westley Green being led by Charley Howell and Chris Benford against Ed Banner-Eve, David Banner-Eve and Francesca Smith. A tough battle ensued over two days, however in the end visiting team Cambridge Consultant Associates walked away with a 19-16 victory. Westley Green’s Charley Howell won The Polo Magazine Most Valuable Player Award whilst Ed Banner-Eve’s pony Hammerhead was named the Polo Times Best Playing Pony. After the matches, players and spectators gathered in the Clubhouse. For social pictures form the event, please turn to our Sidelines pages.
Polo Times Best Playing Pony (8 Goal) Hammerhead
Polo Times Best Playing Pony (3 Goal) Chunk
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Photography courtesy of Ash Farm
Paul Sweeney Memorial T
8 Goal champions Cambridge Consultant Associates’ Ed Banner-Eve
Paul Sweeney Memorial
Reports
Paul Sweeney Memorial 3 Goal Final Teams: FIN AL
28 29 JAN
Angels (3) R&D Developments(3) Sophie Morrison (0) Ola Kelly (-1) Richard Newman (1) Ollie Cork (2) Izzy McGregor (2) James Mann (2) R&D Developments beat Angels 22-9
JAN
MVP
3 GOAL TOP GOAL SCORER
8 Goal: Charley Howell 3 Goal: Ollie Cork
Ollie Cork: 10
Paul Sweeney Memorial 8 Goal Final Teams:
BPP Westley Green Farm (8) Charley Howell (1) Chris Benford (1) Howard Smith (6)
Cambridge Consultant Associates (7) Francesca Smith (0) David Banner-Eve (2) Ed Banner-Eve (5)
8 Goal: Hammerhead owned by Edward Banner-Eve 3 Goal: Chunk owned by James Mann
The Polo Magazine Most Valuable Player (8 Goal), Charley Howell
The Polo Magazine Most Valuable Player (3 Goal), Ollie Cork
WGF beat CCA 19-16
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Polo Times, March 2017
45
Reports
RCBPC Round-Up
Photography by Cymon Skinner: People of Polo
Tally Ho Farm and Regal Warriors went head-to-head in the FCT Invitational Challenge Trophy
FCT Invitational & Winter Victor Ludorum
S
FCT Invitational Challenge Trophy aturday 4 February saw a crisp sunny winter’s day at The Berkshire, where Raph Singh’s Regal Warriors went head-to-head with James Fearn’s Tally Ho Farm for the FCT Invitational Challenge Trophy. Regal Warriors defeated Tally Ho Farm in a fast and fun game, with the scoreboard reading 11-8 at the end of the last chukka. With a two goal deficit on handicap, the Regal Warriors came out to start the game on flying form with both Morris-Lowe and Charlton finding the posts very quickly, tying-up the score at 2-2 within minutes. Charlton then scored a fabulous 2 pointer on the run, whilst Smith also found the posts to open the scoring for Tally Ho Farm. The second chukka saw Tally Ho Farm take back the lead with both Good and Fearn converting 15 yard penalties. However, their lead was short-lived with some fantastic team play from Charlton and Morris-Lowe, between them finding the posts three times, whilst Smith also kept his team in the game with a goal. The scoreboard read 7-6 in favour of the Regal Warriors at half-time. The second half continued in much the same fashion, with plenty of running, open play and great teamwork on both sides. A little bit of heckling from the sidelines also provided great entertainment. On the sounding of the final hooter the scoreboard read 11-8 in favour of Regal Warriors. A great game was had by both the players and spectators. 46
Polo Times, March 2017
Alex Jacob reports from Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club
Chukka scores: 4-3, 7-6, 9-6, 11-8 to Regal Warriors
Tally Ho Farm James Fearn Howard Smith Jonny Good
(14) (0) (6) (8)
Regal Warriors Raph Singh Ed Morris-Lowe Max Charlton
(15) (2) (4) (9)
TOP GOAL SCORER Max Charlton: 5 Tim Bown & Simon McDonald www.polotimes.co.uk
RCBPC Round-Up
A golden goal in an extra chukka secured the win for Tex8n Polo
H
Winter Victor Ludorum 5-8 Goal aving already met in the league stage of the tournament, it was once again Mindi Byrne’s Tex8n Polo who faced Charlie Cadogan and Jeremy Pemberton’s Tattinger in the Final of the Winter Victor Ludorum 5-8 Goal Tournament. With both teams each having won one VL tournament each it was all to play for. Previously, it was Taittinger who had dominated, with the score reading 20-15, however the Final was a different story, as a fast flowing game unfolded, with little need for the umpires’ whistle. The first chukka went in favour of Taittinger, with all three players finding the posts and Will Emerson was also awarded a penalty one in his favour. For Tex8n Polo, it was only Nico San Roman who found the posts to keep his team in the game for 2 points. Having gone to change ponies, Tex8n Polo came out in much better form with some fantastic team work between San Roman and Terence Lent, which allowed Lent to score four times, and only two in reply from Emerson. The scoreboard read 6-6 as the hooter sounded for half-time. After the half-time break, roles were reversed as Taittinger dominated the third chukka, as Charlie Cadogan found the posts first followed by a quick reply from San Roman keeping the game very even. Emerson then went on to score a fantastic 2 pointer to give his side the lead heading into the fourth chukka. It was all to play for with just a two goals difference, and as the ball went into play it was Cadogan who made his way to the goal first and further extending Taittinger’s lead, however with the continued teamwork between Lent and San Roman, the gap was closed to just one goal. A foul in front of the goalmouth saw Emerson awarded a penalty 1, allowing the Taittinger team to regain their two goal advantage and give them a little room to breathe. San Roman took it upon himself to secure the two points needed to extend the match into an extra chukka with a 15 yard penalty swiftly followed by a goal from open play, taking the scores to 11-11 at the end of the fourth chukka. The spectators were treated to a couple of minutes of fast, action packed polo, but it was San Roman who finally pushed the ball into the back of the goal to give Tex8n Polo the win. The Polo Magazine Most Valuable Player Prize was deservedly awarded to Tex8n Polo’s Nico San Roman, whilst the Polo Times Best Playing Pony honours went to Will Emerson’s Luna, a 12-year-old New Zealand thoroughbred, owned and played by Will. www.polotimes.co.uk
Reports
Nico San Roman received The Polo Magazine Most Valuable Player Award from RCBPC Chairman Jamie Morrison
Chukka scores: 2-4 6-6, 7-9, 11-11, 12-11 to Tex8n Polo
Tex8n Polo Mindi Byrne Terence Lent Nico San Roman
(8) (0) (3) (5)
Taittinger (8) Charlie Cadogan (1) Jeremy Pemberton (1) Will Emerson (6)
TOP GOAL SCORER
Tim Bown & Marcus Hancock
N FI
MVP Nico San Roman
AL
Will Emerson: 8
5
FEB
BPP Luna, owned and played by Will Emerson
To read more about Luna, please turn to our Pony Power pages and for all the social from the day, please turn to our Sidelines pages. Polo Times, March 2017
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HPA National Club Championships 15 Goal
15 & 6 Goal Finals Four Quarter Quash Sifani’s Hopes
W
ith matches having been postponed due to the frozen conditions just a couple of weeks ago, Sunday 5 February finally saw Simon Arber’s Four Quarters line-up to play Hilali Noordeen’s Sifani for the HPA National Club Championships 15 Goal Final. A slight change to the original Four Quarters’ line-up saw them starting with a two goal handicap advantage. Nico San Roman stepped in to take the place of Ollie Cudmore, who had prior commitments abroad. As the game got under way, it was clear that a fast and technical game was the order of the day. The first to find the posts was Mikey Henderson with a successful run to goal, to close the handicap start to just one. It wasn’t long before Richard, the Earl of Tyrone found the posts in response with an open goal, as well as a converted 15 yard penalty. As the chukka progressed, Ryan Pemble scored a ‘two pointer’ which he also followed up with a converted 15 yard penalty. With pressure mounting for both teams, umpire Smith had to lay down the law, with San Roman being shown a yellow card in the dying seconds of the first chukka which ended with just one goal between the two teams. The start of the second chukka was marred with fouls from Sifani which saw Arber’s Four Quarters punish them with Richard, the Earl of Tyrone converting two 15 yard penalties, a 25 yard penalty and also being awarded a penalty 1. Fortunately, Sifani began to find rhythm with their team play, which resulted in Pemble and Henderson scoring three open goals and convert a 15 yard 48
Polo Times, March 2017
Alex Jacob reports from Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club
penalty between them, leaving the half-time score 9-8 in favour of Four Quarters. Having got themselves a hot drink and slice of cake from La Cantina, the spectators returned to what promised to be an exciting second half. Although the third chukka saw a lot of near misses, an early penalty 1 for Richard, the Earl of Tyrone was quickly replied to by Henderson. The next and only other goal in the third was in the form of a 15 yard penalty, which was calmly converted by Richard, the Earl of Tyrone who increased their lead back to two goal. End-to-end polo, with both teams scoring multiple goals, gave the spectators a real thrill in the fourth chukka. Sifani came out with Pemble scoring first in the form of a 15 yard penalty, which was swiftly followed by a great backhand goal from Nico San Roman in favour of Four Quarters. A debate followed as to whether or not it was two points or not, and with no one quite sure, it was agreed by umpires and players to award the goal with a single point. Four Quarters, winners of the HPA National Club Championships 15 Goal
Photography by Cymon Skinner: People of Polo
Reports
Play continued with a flurry of goals added to the scoreboard for both sides. Pemble managed to even things up with a two pointer from well within his own half with just a couple of minutes left on the clock. Undeterred, Richard, the Earl of Tyrone converted a 15 yard penalty to retake the lead but as the first bell sounded, and with just 30 seconds left of play, Pemble kept his team’s chances alive and again found the posts, taking the Final to an extra ‘golden goal’ chukka. The fourth chukka had undeniably belonged to Pemble and as both teams went off to change their ponies and prepare for the added pressure of
www.polotimes.co.uk
Reports
the golden goal, the scoreboard read 15-15. Mounted up on what horsepower they had left, the teams lined up for one last time. With the spectators on the edge of their seats, there were a number of close misses from both sides which could so nearly have clinched the title for either team. However, it was Pemble, blocking Richard, the Earl of Tyrone’s right of way, who caused the sounding of the umpires’ whistle. The resulting 15 yard penalty awarded to Four Quarters would be the decider and despite a call from the spectators for Four Quarters’ team patron Simon Arber to take the shot, it was left to Richard, the Earl of Tyrone to continue his clean streak with another goal and secure Four Quarters victory in the HPA National Club Championships 15 Goal Final, 16-15.
Chukka scores: 5-4, 9-8, 11-9, 15-15, 16-15 to Four Quarters
N FI
5
FEB Four Quarters Simon Arber Nico San Roman Richard, the Earl of Tyrone
www.polotimes.co.uk
(14) (1) (5) (8)
Howard Smith & Tim Bown
Sifani (15) Hilali Noordeen (1) Mikey Henderson (6) Ryan Pemble (8)
BPP TOP GOAL SCORER
To read more about Polo Times Best Playing Pony, Cheeky Monkey, turn to our Pony Power pages
AL
Richard, the Earl of Tyrone: 13
MVP
Richard, the Earl of Tyrone
Cheeky Monkey, owned and played by Richard, the Earl of Tyrone Polo Times, March 2017
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Reports
HPA National Club Championships
Tex8n Polo Dominate Again
A
fter much delay, initially due to the frozen conditions, and then due to other tournament commitments, Sunday 12 February saw the Final of the HPA National Club Championships 6 Goal. With a two goal handicap start in favour of Tex8n Polo, Comland were on the back foot before the match even began and needed a big first chukka. However, as the ball was thrown-in by umpire Hancock, it was San Roman who very quickly found the posts for Tex8n. The bad news continued for Comland as Hutchings, picked up a nice pass from San Roman to open his scoring account and extend their lead to 4 goals in a matter of minutes. Crossley soon found the scoreboard for his side with a couple of nice goals from open play, including a fantastic nearside under-the-neck shot as well as a 15 yard penalty. Yet it wasn’t enough to hold-off Tex8n, as they notched up another two goals. The second chukka was not much different from the first, although a little more whistle saw San Roman convert three 15 yard penalties as well as a conversion for Comland’s Crossley. Hutchings, Garcera and Prisk all also found themselves on the scoreboard, which meant the half-time score read 11-7 in favour of Tex8n. After a quick change of ponies, another fast and flowing half got underway, with some great team play from Tex8n on display. San Roman fired precise passes up to Hutchings who carried them to goal, whilst team patron Byrne worked hard to create space for her fellow teammates. However, it wasn’t all about Tex8n, as Prisk managed to score an incredible two pointer in front of the grandstand with a nearside under-the-neck shot, but at the end of the third chukkas the outcome of the match seemed inevitable.
50
Polo Times, March 2017
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HPA National Club Championships
Reports
James Crossley, The Polo Magazine Most Valuable Player from RCBPC Chairman Jamie Morrison
Yet Comland didn’t let the scoreline dampen their spirits and came out fighting for the fourth and final chukka. Despite luck not being on their side, they gave it their best effort until the final whistle, with both Crossley and Garcera both scoring from open play. Ultimately, the odds were in San Roman’s favour, who seemingly could not miss, with a converted 15 yard penalty swiftly followed by a two pointer from
Finalists, Comland and Tex8n Polo
well within his own half. Hutchings further extended Tex8n’s lead with two more goals, notably carrying one from in front of his own goal the length of the arena to score. The final hooter went, with the score reading 21-14 in favour of the blues and Mindi Byrne’s Tex8n Polo retained their 2016 title as the winners of the 2017 HPA National Club Championships 6 Goal.
After the match, The Polo Magazine Most Valuable Player Award was deservedly presented to James Crossley who played exceptionally well in both the Final as well as throughout the whole tournament, whilst the Polo Times Best Playing Pony rug was presented to Jess, a 14-year-old New Zealand thoroughbred mare, owned and played by Nico San Roman.
Chukka scores: 6-3, 11-7, 16-11, 21-14 to Tex8n Polo
FI
NA
L
12
FEB
Tex8n Polo Mindi Byrne Harry Hutchings Nico San Roman
(6) (0) (1) (5)
Comland (7) James Crossley (2) Celio Garcera (1) Roy Prisk (4)
BPP
TOP GOAL SCORER Nico San Roman: 10
Finalists, Comland and Tex8n Polo
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Umpires: Marcus Hancock & Howard Smith
MVP James Crossley
Jess, owned and played by Nico San Roman
To read more about Polo Times Best Playing Pony, Jess, turn to our Pony Power pages Polo Times, March 2017
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Your Club News from Home and Abroad
Club Focus
Bangham Retirement & Spink Sponsorship
Photograph by Andrew Yates Photography
Photograph courtesy of Cowdray Park Polo Club
Cowdray Park Polo Club’s Operations Manager, Lt Col Paddy Bangham, retired from the Club at the end of January. Since his appointment in 2006, Paddy oversaw a key period of modernisation and development at the Club and is now enjoying retirement with his wife Sabine at their Lt Col Paddy Bangham new home in Wiltshire. retired from the Club at Taking over from Paddy the end of January in the role of General Manager at Cowdray Park Polo Club is Col Matt Petersen. Looking back at Paddy’s time as General Manager, Club Chairman, Peter Barfoot commented, “Paddy has done sterling work through a period of great change at the Club and in his understated way has played a most important role in overseeing the journey of the Club into the modern era of polo. His immaculate eye for detail and accuracy has made my job as Chairman easy and I thank him for his valued support and friendship. His shoes will not be easily filled. On behalf of us all, I wish him the best as he pursues his love of fishing in his much deserved retirement.” In other news from the Club, a three year partnership with Spink & Son has been announced. Spink & Son, originally founded in 1666, is renowned for the design and manufacture of orders, decorations and medals and has produced new designs for the Club’s Playing and Non-Playing members’ badges. Spink will also sponsor the 15 goal Cicero Cup at Cowdray Park. Suppliers to the British Royal Family since Queen Victoria’s reign, Spink’s work is commissioned by Heads of State, Ruling Families, and Armed Forces throughout the world. The company also has a worldwide reputation as a leading specialist auctioneers of stamps, coins, banknotes, medals, bonds and shares, autographs, books and wines. Spink’s Global Managing Director, Tim Hirsch commented, “In its 350 year history, Spink has had much association with the Crown, the Armed Forces and sport. How fitting it is that we should now support the ‘Sport of Kings’ and one of the most prestigious polo clubs. We look forward with great anticipation to our partnership with Cowdray.”
Ed Vigors & Abi Meakin at the Druids Winter league
El Rosario & Winter league
Domincan Republic Polo Hots Up The action in the Dominican Republic has continued with a 29 goal charity match in aid of Fundación MIR and Hogar del Niño. The charity match was played between Lechuza Caracas (Victor Vargas, Fred Mannix Jr, Juan Martín Nero & David Stirling Jr) and Casa de Campo (Julian Mannix, Pancho Bensadon, Ignacio Toccalino & Santiago Toccalino), and a friendly display of polo resulted in an amicable 6-6 score. Meanwhile, at the time of going to print the Copa de Plata (Silver Cup) 22 goal and 12 goal are in full swing, with the Finals set for Monday 20 February. Swiftly following on from the Silver Cup, the Copa de Oro (Gold Cup) is scheduled to begin on Friday 3 March – a full report will be included in the next issue of Polo Times. www.polotimes.co.uk
Photograph by Katharina Chelsea
Over the weekend of 28 – 29 January, Druids Lodge hosted The El Rosario Trophy 2017, which this year formed part of the Victor Ludorum 8 Goal series. Taittinger (George Cadogan, Charlie Cadogan & Will Emerson) beat Bush Pigs (George Shelton, Charlie Hitchman & Matt Simpson) 17-9. The game was fast and fluid with very little whistle. At the post-match presentation, Charlie Cadogan was named The Polo Magazine Most Valuable Player and the Polo Times Best Playing Pony was won by Focus, played by Will Emerson. To read more about Focus please turn to our Pony Power pages. Next-up, the Druids Winter League kicked off on 4 – 5 February with St David’s Vets (Brent Slater, Nick Nott/ Seb Petragallo & Abi Meakin) winning both their matches. St David’s first victory was a 15-13 score against Frontier (Ed Vigors, Arthur Cole-Fontayne & Paul Triance), followed by a 14-8 win versus Mace (Julie Mackay, Ed Barker & Anthony Bond) on Sunday 5 February. Taittinger, winners of the El Rosario Trophy
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Club Focus
Your Club News from Home and Abroad
Polo Masters Cup Final
Polo Masters Cup Final Teams: Mahra (14): Rashid Al Habtoor (0), Daniel Gariador (2), Juan Ruíz Guiñazú (7) & Jeronimo del Carril (5) Habtoor (14): Mohammed Al Habtor (0), Gregorio Gelosi (4), Tomás Beresford (4) & Guillermo Cuitiñio (6)
England vs New Zealand
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Polo Times, March 2017
Guards Polo Club recently announced that Hildon Natural Mineral Water, one of the Club’s long-standing Corporate Partners, will be sponsoring the Archie David Cup tournament from 2017. This prestigious tournament, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this season, is the UK’s leading 8 goal polo tournament and attracts an entry list of around 30 teams each year. Hildon Natural Mineral Water, which was founded by the late Christian Heppe in 1989, is no stranger to either Guards Polo Club nor polo. Mr Heppe was a life playing member of Guards Polo The impressive Archie David Club, playing high goal with his BB’s team – winning the British Trophy is being sponsored by Hildon Natural Mineral Water Open in 1984 – and sponsoring the European Open at Smith’s Lawn in 2002. A generous benefactor to the Club, he not only funded the construction of the world-famous Royal Box overlooking The Queen’s Ground in the 1980s, but sponsored the building of the current Box in 2002. The Hildon Archie David Cup tournament takes place between Tuesday 6 June – Sunday 2 July. Grandstand tickets and all-day hospitality packages for Finals Day will go on sale to nonmembers from early April. For more information, call the Club’s Ticket Office on 01784 437797.
Test Match Tickets
On Saturday 4 March, England will face the Commonwealth in The Bryan Morrison International Trophy, as part of the Arena Polo International Test Match at All England Polo Club, Hickstead. No doubt England will be aiming to continue their run of home wins, following victories over Ireland in 2015 and the USA in 2016. With the 12 Goal Challenge match held before the Bryan Morrison Trophy, spectators can purchase tickets for the two matches at just £5 per ticket. A postmatch lunch will also take place for players and supporters, with tickets costing an additional £49.50 for those wishing to attend. The Polo Clubhouse will be open throughout the day, offering a range of refreshments, while the Clubhouse viewing platform offers an unrivalled view of the Arena.
Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com
Kihikihi International Test Match Teams: Fullerton AG England (26): Jack Richardson (6), Ollie Cudmore (6), James Harper (7) & Max Charlton (7) Piquet Hill New Zealand (23): Kit Brooks (5), Craig Wilson (6), JP Clarkin (7) & Glenn Sheriff (5)
New Sponsor for Guards Photograph courtesy of Guards Polo Club
On Saturday 11 February, Kihikihi Polo Club, New Zealand, hosted two International matches, Peter O’Rorke spoke to Polo Times about the event: “New Zealand beat England in a tense and closely fought International Test Match at Kihikihi Polo Club with a score of 9-8. The NZ squad of Kit Brooks, Craig Wilson, JP Clarkin and Glenn Sheriff were very evenly matched against a Young England squad of Jack Richardson, Ollie Cudmore, James Harper and Max Charlton. Both teams were beautifully mounted and of course the game was played on Kihikihi’s legendary couch grass field, which coupled with a sunny day and good crowd of enthusiastic supporters, produced a great day of polo. NZ had the upper hand for the first three chukkas as England players struggled to throw off the winter polo blues but by the fourth and fifth chukkas, scores remained even. The final chukka was particularly close but a penalty ruled against England in the last 10 seconds, (always an umpire’s worst nightmare) meant victory for the patriotic Kiwi team and supporters. Henry Jones’ pony Opal, played by Ollie Cudmore, received Best Playing Pony award. In a preliminary match, an Ireland squad of Keelan McCarthy, James Connelly, Marcus Beresford and Daniel Laverty took on a similarly youthful group of Kiwis, Dean Fullerton, Andre Parrott, Henry Jones and homegrown Michael Kay. The popular Irish visitors charmed everyone but went down to a 5-4 victory to New Zealand.”
Mahra Polo, winners of the 2017 Polo Masters Cup
England defeated USA in 2016, will England’s winning streak continue this year?
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Photograph by Gonzalo Etcheverry
Photograph by Brett O’Callaghan
Craig Wilson aims for goal
The Polo Masters Cup is a 14 goal handicap tournament played over a week under the umbrella of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup series. This year, five teams competed, with Mahra Polo Team and Habtoor Polo reaching the Final on Tuesday 14 February at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club. Mahra were defending their 2016 title, and played with determination and strength throughout the match, and by the third chukka led with a six goal advantage and a score of 8-2. Although Habtoor Polo attempted a comeback with two goals in the final chukka, however their fate was already sealed and Mahra Polo Team ran out the winners with a final score of 8-4. Mahra’s Jeronimo del Carril was named Most Valuable Player and Quini, owned by Mahra and played by Juan Ruíz Guiñazú in the fourth chukka, was awarded the Best Playing Pony prize. Before the Final, Bin Drai Polo defeated Wolves Polo 9-8 in the Subsidiary Final.
Your Club News from Home and Abroad
Photograph courtesy of Peter O’Rorke
British teammates Peter O’Rorke and Matt Evetts defended UK polo during the Kihikihi Polo Week by pulling off a comprehensive win in the 4 goal section, just after England were beaten by New Zealand on the same field in the Kihikihi International Test Match, Peter O’Rorke told Polo Times about their experience: “Kihikihi Club is one of the most historic clubs in New Zealand and draws in teams across 0, 4 and 10 goal from all over the country to their exceptional couch grass fields during the Polo Week. Many of these teams have, to English ears, exotic and exciting names such as Waimai, Poverty Bay, Taupiri and Hawkes Bay (alright, that’s not exotic but made us think of good Sauvignon Blanc!). Many of these teams featured Brits, no doubt drawn to the exceptional quality of the horses, play, and fields, including the ever-smiling Lottie Lamacraft, John Martin, Tristan Wade, Ollie Jones, Ed Hitchman and Nick Pepper. Early rounds were played at Stephen Kay’s field in the foothills and the surrounding paddocks were full of trucks, wonderful horses and the classic Kiwi brand of player; rough, tough, genial, sporting but hospitable. Such were the teams Inglesham faced, but they were rather overawed by Matt Evetts’ skills and horsepower, courtesy of the Simcox family and Aaron Vowles. The Final, held at the main Nga Rakau ground, was between the strong and experienced Kihikihi home team and the Inglesham players. Both teams started well and with full commitment by both sides, but Evetts was dominant in controlling the play, supported by No 4, Tim Simcox’s perfectly angled backhands, darting attacks by Renn Erceg and Peter O’Rorke’s habitually tough marking. The match finished with an Inglesham Polo Centre victory as the warm New Zealand summer sun went down 11,500 miles away Inglesham, winners of the Kihikihi 4 Goal from frost, rain and visa worries.”
Ylvisaker Cup Final
Photograph by David Lominska/www.polographics.com
Inglesham Polo Centre Win
Club Focus
Coca-Cola defeated Tonkawa in The Ylvisaker Cup Final
Photograph by Gonzalo Etcheverry/DPGC 2017
McLaren Cup 2017 Following postponement from Friday 3 February, the Final of the McLaren Cup, the first tournament of The Dubai Open, was played the next day at Al Habtoor Polo Resort. Both UAE Polo and Desert Palm were evenly matched, which resulted in a closely fought and nail-biting race to the finish. Ultimately, UAE Polo’s half goal handicap advantage secured them the title, with the final scores reading 8-8½, securing their third consecutive victory in the McLaren Cup. The post-match analysis revealed Matías Benoit and Guillermo Terrera for UAE Polo as well as Martín Valent and Santiago Laborde for Desert Palm, all scored three goals apiece highlighting what a close match the Final was. Desert Palm’s Terrera, top goal scorer of the tournament with a whopping 23 goals, was named Most Valuable Player and Jessica, who was played by Terrera in the fourth chukka was awarded the Best Playing Pony rug. Meanwhile, the 18 goal action continues with the second tournament of The Dubai Open, The Julius Baer Gold Cup with the Final on Friday 10 March. McLaren Cup Final Teams: UAE Polo (17): Ali Al Merri (0), Jack Hyde (3), Matías Benoit (6) & Guillermo Terrera (8) Desert Palm (18): Tarik Albwardy (0), Martín Valent (5), Alejo Taranco (7) & Santiago Laborde (6)
On Wednesday 15 February, Coca-Cola and Tonkawa defeated their opposition in the Semi Finals to secure their places in the Final of The Ylvisaker Cup. On Sunday 19 February at International Polo Club Palm Beach the stands were packed with spectators, with the atmosphere filled with anticipation for another thrilling display of polo. The crowds were not disappointed with a fluid and open match, but at half-time Tonkawa were leading with a strong 6-3 score. However, Coca-Cola were not ready to throw in the towel and by the fourth chukka a combination of teamwork and tenacity meant Tonkawa’s lead had been reversed and CocaCola were ahead with a 7-6 score. For the remaining chukkas both teams went head-to head, with both sides struggling to secure and maintain the lead. In the final moments of the final chukka, it was Coca-Cola’s Julio Arellano who broke the 8-8 stalemate with the successful conversion of a 30 yard penalty, securing the win and the Ylvisaker Cup for Coca-Cola with a final score of 9-8. Tonkawa (20): Jeff Hildebrand (A), Casti Caset (4), Sapo Caset (10) & Facundo Obregon (6) Coca-Cola (20): Gillian Johnston (2), Julian de Lusarreta (7), Julio Arellano (8) & Del Walton (3)
UAE Polo Team, winners of the 2017 McLaren Cup
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Polo Times, March 2017
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Club Focus
Your Club News from Home and Abroad
On Sunday 22 January, the crowds at International Polo Club, Palm Beach witnessed a true match of two halves in the Joe Barry Memorial Final. La Indiana, finalists in the 2016 Queen’s and Gold Cups in the UK, formed a staggering and ultimately insurmountable attack upon Mt. Brilliant. Although Mt. Brilliant were the first to chalk up a goal on the scoreboard with a penalty 2 conversion from Jason Crowder, La Indiana railroaded Mt. Brilliant into submission with a staggering seven consecutive goals, with Mt. Brilliant only able to add one more goal to the scoreboard by the end of the second chukka. With the scores reading 7-2 at the start of the third chukka, some may have expected La Indiana to offer some mercy, but the relentless goal scoring continued until the half-time whistle with the scores reading 11-2 in favour of La Indiana. However, Mt. brilliant weren’t about to go down without a fight, and although the scores were more of a trickle than a flurry, their teamwork resulted in a 13-6 score moving into the sixth and final chukka. With
all to play for and a seven goal deficit, Mt. Brilliant finally found their stride with four goals from Crowder closing the gap to just 13-10. Sadly for Mt. Brilliant it was too little too late and with no more goals crossing the backline, La Indiana claimed the 2017 Joe Barry Memorial Trophy with a final score of 13-10. After the match, La Indiana’s Jeff Hall commented, “We played really well for three chukkas. We knew that at 11-2 stuff starts to unravel. It’s hard to stay focused even though we were trying to tell ourselves 0-0 every chukka”. At the presentations, La Indiana’s Mike Azzaro was awarded Most Valuable Player and the Best Playing Pony was named as Africano, ridden and owned by Raúl Colombres. Joe Barry Memorial Trophy Final Teams: La Indiana (20): Michael Bickford (1), Raúl Colombres (6), Mike Azarro (6) & Jeff Hall (7) Mt Brilliant (20): Bo Goodman (1), Jason Crowder (6), Santiago Chavanne (7) & Julian Daniels (6)
Photograph by David Lominska/polographic.com
Joe Barry Memorial Final
La Indiana, winners of the 2017 Joe Barry Memorial Trophy
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Women’s Polo
Photograph by Yvette Reid Photography
International
The men defeated the ladies in the 2017 Diamonds International Battle of the Sexes
Barbados Battle of the Sexes instead of Emma Boers. It was a tough game with many chances for both sides going wide. The men were victorious 2-1. However, game three was all about the girls, who secured a stunning 6-2 victory, bringing them back in the running to win the series, all they needed was a win on the final Sunday. The Final was tough with the very solid men’s team (Rhys Odle, Stephen Williams, Luis Clerice & Alex Cole) taking on the ladies (Vicki Gonzalez, Emma Boers, Hazel Jackson & Sarah Wiseman). Both teams
Tidworth Battle of the Sexes Tidworth Polo Club hosted Women in Polo (WIP) Battle of the Sexes on Saturday 28 January. In a close fought and entertaining contest, the Tidworth Ladies team of Lisa Ives, Emma Cowlrick and Jessica Andrews eventually ran out the winners over the www.polotimes.co.uk
Inglesham Gents, Tim Haimey, Peter O’Rorke and Matt Evetts, with a final score of 20-17. Three teams also competed in the WIP Challenge over the weekend, and in a close final Drybrook claimed victory over Hampshire Polo School.
Photograph courtesy of Tidworth Polo Club
The Battle of The Sexes in Barbados is a hotly contested affair and a very popular tournament in Barbados, always drawing a lot of spectators. This year the boys were out for victory as the girls had narrowly beaten them in the series in 2016. The first game all seemed to be going the girls’ way in the third chukka and they had a healthy lead. However, the men had other ideas and came out on a goal scoring spree, securing a 6-5 victory. In the second game, the girls were joined by Paige (The Villages Polo Club, Florida)
matched each other in the first two chukkas, but the girls took a slight advantage in the third. Yet the men were not going to sit back and watch, with Rhys Odle firing in two impressive goals to steal victory away from the ladies in the 2017 event. Post-event, Sarah Wiseman commented, “It is always a lot of fun to play this tournament and this year was no exception. The polo is of a very high, and very competitive standard. The boys play tough and for us it’s always hard as we never know the horses we are playing until we turn up on the day of the match, most of them we have never ridden before! When the team clicks, and all of us click with our horses we really can challenge the men!”
Tidworth Ladies, winners of the Women in Polo Battle of the Sexes
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Women’s Polo
International
style of play and ponies. America ran out the winners with a score of 9-3 after England failed to capitalise on many opportunities for goal and possession during the game. The ceremony was also a great show with some amazing trophies and momentos such as original Manipuri bridles. A day of travelling later, the team arrived in Mumbai, sadly not to play another tournament as planned, but instead to attend meetings at the Mumbai World Trade Centre and Stock Exchange to talk to investors regarding helping to coach the Indian Team and to save the Manipuri Ponies – the “original” polo pony. A colonial style Tea Party put on by Roopa Barua and a few rounds of the markets and port later it was already time for the team to go their separate ways. A big thank you to the HPA and Nina Vestey for organising the trip and supporting ladies polo. From myself, Charlotte Sweeney, Maimie Powell and Sarah Hughes thank you to everyone involved – memories that will last a lifetime and another positive step forward to promote the sport.” Manipur Ladies Final Teams: England (1): Sarah Hughes (0), Annabel McNaught-Davis (1), Charlotte Sweeney (0) & Maimie Powell (0) America (1)
Photograph by Annabel McNaught-Davis
An HPA England Ladies team visited Manipur at the end of January for the 2nd Manipur Statehood Day Women’s Polo Tournament, and Polo Times caught up with Annabel McNaught-Davis to hear more about the event, “From the 15 – 25 January, the English Ladies Team set out on a new adventure to promote Ladies Polo in India to an historical polo venue – the state of Manipur, home to the oldest existing polo ground in the world. Upon arrival, the team were greeted with traditional flowers and scarves – just part of the great hospitality from our Manipuri hosts and organiser Somi Roy. A press conference and television show were first port of call to promote the tournament which was publicised all over Manipur. After a practice day of stick and balling and getting used to our miniature mounts, the tournament began with America taking on the talented Indian team and beating them in a close match. A similar result the next day meant we were to face America in the Final. Finals Day began with a wonderful presentation and performance from a local tribal band and with the presence of numerous guests of honour. A tough match ensued with good play from both teams who were now slightly more adjusted to a very different
Despite reaching the Final, England lost to USA
Photograph courtesy of ChukkerTV
Manipur Ladies
Finalists of the Women’s Polo League Tournament
Scribble Horse Win Inaugural Event On Wednesday 25 January, Santa Rita Polo Farm, USA, hosted the inaugural Women’s Polo League Tournament, which it is hoped will become a monthly women’s league. In January, four teams competed every Wednesday in order, with Scribble Horse (Kathy Iverson, Ashley Emerson, Kylie Sheehan & Courtney Asdourain) defeating Farmington Polo Club (Erika Lipton, Breanna Gunnell, Jennifer Williams & Clarissa Echezarreta) 3½-3. The event is the brainchild of Alina Carta, who hopes the tournament will grow in popularity and provide a solid base for women’s polo. Courtney Asdourian, who was awarded with the Most Valuable player prize commented, “I love this concept, it’s amazing to have games guaranteed once a week,” Asdourain said. “The idea was to get out there and play fun, competitive polo. This is a great venue. It’s organized and everything is so professional. It’s helping the women step up their game and take it to the next level.”
Ladies Challenge
Women’s polo dates, please turn to our What’s On pages For Is your Women’s polo not featured? Email editorial@polotimes.co.uk with all your Women’s polo news! 58
Polo Times, March 2017
Cambridge Polo and Hertfordshire Polo Club competed in The ladies Challenge
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Photograph courtesy of Hertfordshire Polo Club
On Sunday 29 January, Hertfordshire Polo Club held The Ladies Challenge at their arena in Woolmers Park. A closely fought match resulted in Cambridge Polo Club (Debs Boorman, Jane Frost & Zoe Tennant) defeating Hertfordshire Polo Club (Claudia Brin, Melissa Walters & Luci Surridge) by just one goal. At the presentations, Debs Boorman was named as Most Valuable Player.
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SUPA University Winter Nationals
Youth
The Oxford Brookes contingent
Photography by Emmpix Photography
A record-breaking 165 teams competed from 37 Universities
SUPA Times! Rosy Taylor, Cardiff University (Undergraduate Journalism Student), was our eyes and ears at Rugby Polo Club, where for a second year running a record breaking number of teams competed “The heavily anticipated SUPA University Winter Nationals, held at Rugby Polo Club on the 9 –12 February, were a huge success and an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. From the students competing to the horse hirers and the horses themselves, everyone was seen with contagious smiles as the biggest tournament worldwide got underway this weekend. “The tournament involved 37 Universities, and at 165, a record-breaking number of teams! SUPA offered a range of levels in which to compete, from Beginner through to Open with 15 divisions in all. Every student looked incredible in their gleaming whites, polished boots and team shirts, from the Durham purples to eye-catching Nottingham’s iconic ‘green and gold’. “The entertainment on the Friday night was a professional match of 13 goal arena polo between the SUPA team and The Knights of Middle England. These were some of the most intense and exciting chukkas that I had ever
watched. The SUPA team (Harold Hodges, Robin Omerod and Robin Spicer) began strongly, with some incredible backhands and nearside shots; the crowd was going wild with anticipation. The Knights of Middle England (David Ashby, Philip Baker and Karl Ude Martinez) pulled back the
game by storming ahead with goals from Ashby and Baker to secure the first couple of chukkas to go into the lead with incredible stick skills being displayed by SUPA on the Druids Lodge ponies. The spectators were kept on their freezing cold toes when the score eventually resulted in a 16-16 draw. “One of the newer features of the tournament included SAPA chukkas, where alumni could compete for glory. The SAPA games were thrilling to watch, with a mixture of postgraduates and graduates coming together for some exciting stick and balling. Get Me Another Drink had a strong team, as did The Avengers and demonstrated some incredible skills against the SAPA2 team who had a challenging but amazing time in the arena. Speaking to Ismay Fabre, President of Cardiff University Polo who stepped in to play for a couple of the chukkas for SAPA2, she said the match was exhilarating and some of the most fun she had ever had in a chukka. “The party on Saturday night at Onley Grounds at Rugby Polo Club was a success with the turnout from each University being great. The theme was Wild West and we looked hilarious in cowboy hats and boots riding the mechanical bull – entertaining to say the least! Some Universities stuck to the theme of having their own theme for fancy dress, with Bath Spa dressed as ‘under the sea’ and UWE dressed as trolls. Everyone most definitely had a smashing night, although I doubt the cleaning up of the Club the next morning was as enjoyable. “Although some of us were feeling worse for wear on the Sunday, great play was seen again throughout the day of chukkas, with the open section and the Intermediates offering an exciting watch through the steamy windows of the viewing platform. As the day and the weekend came to an end, and the champions were crowned, the crowded Club bar at Onley Grounds gave an idea of the sheer numbers involved. We then all headed home for a well needed rest before starting the week back at University and heading back to the libraries to work on dissertations and revision. “I would like to thank SUPA and everyone who helped make this Winter Nationals such an amazing experience for everyone involved, on behalf of all the students competing and spectating!” For Youth polo dates, please turn to our What’s On pages
The Knights of Middle England’s Karl Ude Martinez
Is your youth polo not featured? Email editorial@polotimes.co.uk with all your youth polo news!
Is your youth polo not featured? Email editorial@polotimes.co.uk with all your youth polo news! Polo Times, March 2017
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Youth
SUPA University Winter Nationals
SUPA Winter National University Arena Championship Winners
Beginner 1 1st – London B1 JOINT 2 – R Holl B1 Warwick B1
Beginner 2 1st – Durham Jaguars 2nd – Liverpool B2 3rd – Brighton Tigers
Beginner 3 1st – Cardiff Whites 2nd – Royal Holloway B2c 3rd – Royal Holloway B2b
Beginner 4 1st – Birmingham B4 (Alexander Jalland collecting on behalf of team mates) 2nd – Warwick B3 3rd – RVC Beg 3
Beginner 5 1st – Portsmouth B 2nd – Oxford Uni 3rd – Exeter B4
Beg Comb 1st – Liverpool B4 Comb 2nd – Winchester Beg Comb 3rd – Loughborough Beg Comb
Novice 1 1st – St Andrews N1 2nd – Oxford Brookes N1 3rd – Cambridge Nov A
Novice 2 1st – Warwick N2 2nd – Notts N2a 3rd – Manchester N2
Novice 3 1st – Durham Tigers 2nd – UWE Phoenix 3rd – Warwick N2a
Novice 4 1st – RVC Nov 3 2nd – Cambridge Nov C 3rd – Warwick N3
Novice 5 1st – Durham Panthers 2nd – Kent Kestrels 3rd – Bath Uni N4
Novice Combined 1st – Winchester Comb 2nd – UWE Nifflers Comb 3rd – Exeter N4 Comb
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SUPA University Winter Nationals
Lower Intermediate 1st – London 1 2nd – Cambridge Int 3rd – Winchester Low Int
Upper Intermediate 1st – Nottingham Up Int 2nd – Oxford Uni 3rd – Durham Lions
Youth
Open 1st – RVC 2nd – Bristol 3rd – RAU
Warwick University Polo Club, winners of Novice 2 section and runners-up in Beginner 1 & 4 as well as Novice 3 & 4, sent Polo Times some pictures of their time at the University Winter Nationals:
Lower SAPA 1st – Get me another drink 2nd – SAPA 2
Upper SAPA 1st – Fairhaven 2nd – The Avengers 3rd – The Incredibles
Photograph courtesy of The APSPH
Warwick Novice 3, Katerina Zabrovskaya, Jasmine Carr & Alex Hickin
The APSPH Best Playing Hired Pony – Luna, from Druids Lodge Polo Club
Molly Iacono, Connie Buchanan, Bridget Carey, Sophie Rey, Jasmine Carr, Marthe Ydalus & Alex Hickin
Photography by Warwick University Polo Club
Photograph courtesy of The APSPH
The APSPH Non-Hired Pony provided by their Membership Benefit Partners Medi-K and Westgate Labs was won by Rosie, Harold Hodges’ retrained mare
Warwick Beginner 2, Andreas Feller, Lilya Anderson & James Tunstall
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Youth
All Aspects of Youth Polo
HPA Youth Development
Photograph by Andrew Yates Photography
In February this year the following group of six were selected by the Development Committee to attend a week’s training clinic from 10 – 20 February with Buster Mackenzie in South Africa: Monte Swain-Grainger, George Deverall, Tamara Gibbons, Lorna Fleming, Capucine Granchi and George Hobbs. The group will be chaperoned by Alec Banner-Eve. A group of four young players, Tom Jodrell, Freddie Jodrell, Archie Fuller and Jack Aldridge, visited Florida in February as part of the exchange programme between the HPA and the Polo Training Foundation in Florida. They played in the Avendaño Memorial Tournament on 20 February.
Harold Hodges (London) & Charlie Holley (Exeter) in the Super League
Super League On Saturday 4 February, Exeter: Jamie Scott (2), Seb Hancock (3) and Charlie Holley (3) defeated London (George Cadogan (1), Arthur Cole-Fontayn (1) and Harold Hodges (6) in the Super League 11-9 at Druids Lodge. The Super League, which is being played between five universities from across the UK over the arena season, will culminate in the Subsidiary Final and Final on Saturday 8 March at Druids Lodge. Exeter: Jamie Scott 2, Seb Hancock 3 & Charlie Holley 3 London: George Cadogan 1, Arthur Cole-Fontayn 1 & Harold Hodges 6
Photograph courtesy of DUPC
DUPC On Tour
Photograph by Galina Badalova
DUPC bonded as a team
DUPC members with the Golden Rider
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Durham University Polo Club ventured to St. Moritz for the 2017 Snow Polo World Cup in St Moritz, Polo Times caught up with Galina Badalova to hear more about their trip: “The Snow Polo World Cup held at St. Moritz, 2017 was once again the apotheosis of glamour, a not-to-be missed event for polo lovers across the globe. Durham University Polo Club (DUPC) assembled to witness the final two days of the tournament. “Alongside the tournament, spectators were able to enjoy a variety of bands performing in the polo village, as well as DJ Cruz who played beside the matches. Saturday evening saw the culmination of the weekend’s events with the post-polo social gathering at King’s Club, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel. On the last day of the World Cup, DUPC observed the Finals in style from the VIP grandstand, while enjoying the finest drinks and canapés in the legendary “champagne climate”. “Before the Final, the crowd did something that has never been done before anywhere else in the world: a standing ovation to the final chukkas. During the final, the Red Devils of Cartier furiously fought Badrutt’s Palace Hotel to take home The
Felstead School
Felsted School got back on the horse with their first match in a few years, playing Cambridge University at the Cambridge County Arena with both Beginner and Intermediate teams. Both matches were close, but the Cambridge experience prevailed, however the matches showed a lot of promising talent emerging from the school.
Cartier Trophy. The game was named “One of the best snow polo games ever,” with particularly stunning shots produced by Chris Hyde, riding the Polo Times Best Playing Pony – Promise. “Durham Polo Club had an astonishing time over the weekend, and it has become evident to us that polo is much more than sport – it is a lifestyle. As a Club, we felt that this experience, to say the least, was inspiring. Witnessing the world-class matches was both educational and eye-opening. Our players had lively discussions on the tactics after the games and got chance to chat with the Beh family and other players on the final day. Overall, the most important lesson that we took home was that talent wins games, but it is teamwork that wins championships. “As a Club, we take pride in our cohesive community and we believe that trusting interpersonal relationship has direct positive influence on our performance. New members of the Club had the opportunity to integrate and appreciate our key values: honesty, passion and commitment. It was evident that living and travelling together has proved to be a delightful experience, which was enforced at our last dinner before our return departure to Durham.” For Youth polo dates, please turn to our What’s On pages
Play Polo in Beautiful South Africa All inclusive polo holidays, chukkas everyday, competitive tournaments at weekends, mountain horse trekking, swimming pools & bars at club house & accommodation. Social nights. Join a scheduled clinic or come as a group. Group discounts available.
Contacts Emma Beardshaw Brenda de Boer Selby Williamson
Email: ebeardshaw@yahoo.com Email: brenda@polo.nl Email: mail@jurassicparkpolo.za Selby Williamson
Mobile UK : 07455 177 499 Mobile NL +31 6 53 36 63 79 Mobile RSA +27 832 626 893 Website www.jurassicparkpolo.co.za
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Chance to win £2,500 with your former racehorse (raced in GB and registered with RoR)
H E B R O 1 5 . 2 H P O L O S TA L L I O N – S TA N D I N G I N B E R K S H I R E . N AT U R A L C O V E R I N G A N D S T R AW S AVA I L A B L E . Has played: Argentine Open 2007 with Javier Novillo Astrada Hurlingham Open 2007 with Javier Novillo Astrada USA open and 26 goal with Las Monjitas in 2008 Argentine and Hurlingham open again in 2008 Hurlingham and Tortugas Open in 2009 to 2012 Retired for breeding - 2013 Now playing medium and low goal in UK with Eclipse. Nature: Very easy and reliable with amazing stamina. For details and info please contact Jontidswellpretorius@gmail.com Or William on 07768 651959 / williamlainsbury@gmail.com
Former racehorses excel in polo. Visit ror.org.uk to find out more. T: 01488 648998
Registered Charity No. 1084787
Arena Focus: Surfaces
Photograph courtesy of Andrews Bowen
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Andrews Bowen 2012 Mix surface at the 2015 Bolesworth International
Arena Focus: Surfaces Andrews Bowen surfaces offer the latest cutting edge technology for those looking to achieve an advantage when installing a new all weather surface facility”, says Becky Bolan of Andrews Bowen.
Intense speed work combined with the twists and turns of the match asks a lot of polo ponies. The best ponies are only as good as the surfaces they train and compete on – and only the best surfaces will protect joints, tendons and ligaments, provide sure footings and promote consistent soundness. Andrews Bowen’s polo surfaces are designed with sustainable equine athletes in mind and dedicated to optimum performance – from both horse and surface. The latest technical surfaces from Andrews Bowen offer even bigger advantages, advantages that start with the thinking behind them. Andrews Bowen’s design team is made up of pro-competition riders with a first-hand understanding of what success looks like – and what it takes to get there. They understand horses. That professional expertise and familiarity with what works for equestrian facilities, 66
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both commercial and private, is hard to find. Combine it with scientific research and an informed focus on the welfare of the horse and you have the Andrews Bowen advantage. The company provides whole-facility turnkey project management from planning and design through to build and handover as well as arenas, gallops and surfaces for commercial and private installations.
“This is the best surface I have ever played on. Hickstead has the best arena in the world!” USA 10 goaler Tommy Biddle Jr after playing polo at Hickstead on an Andrews Bowen Polo Mix
Experienced in polo arena construction, Andrews Bowen designs and installs premier surfaces which have played a part in developing polo as a year-round sport. Thought is given to the smooth movement of the ball as well as support for the ponies behind it. As a game-changer for the sport, for performance and consistency, Andrews Bowen ensures the highest standards of manufacture and construction across every equine discipline and exactly the right solution for each individual customer. All Andrews Bowen projects are wellbuilt, well thought out arenas, each with the perfect surface. Key is quality materials, approach and a well-drained surface with moisture levels that are maintained for the best footings – every time. Surfaces include ProWax competition, FEI approved London 2012 mix, B.H.A. approved Safetrack and Polo Mix.
• If you would like to speak with a member of the team at Andrews Bowen, they can be contacted on 01995 672103 or alternatively by email at sales@andrewsbowen.co.uk
www.polotimes.co.uk
Pony Power
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Tae Ormerod spoke to us about Druids Lodge Polo’s 19-year-old mare, Focus, winner of The El Rosario Trophy Victor Ludorum 8 Goal Polo Times Best Playing Pony Award at Druids Lodge Polo Club
Focus
Photograph by Tae Ormerod
Height: 15.2hh Age: 19-years-old Colour: Chestnut Sex: Mare Owner: Druids Lodge Polo, played by Will Emerson What is her breeding? She is by Chess out of Fotocopy by Man of Harlech and was bred by the Tomlinson’s at Down Farm. Tell us about her background? Will Emerson bought her in 2008 and she was one of his favourite ponies playing for him until 2015 when she came to us at Druids for a quieter life. Has she won any other awards? Not that we know of, she has been somewhat overlooked until now.
What are her strengths? She is immensely strong in the ride-off and her conformation allows her to turn exceptionally well. How has she gone this season? Focus is an avid arena fan and has done all of the Schools’ polo so far this season. What are your plans for her future? To remember she is older than she thinks and not allow her to play the hard polo even though she is so good at it. Does she have any special quirks? Not really, she’s pretty straightforward! Describe her in three words? Powerful old lady.
Photograph by Cymon Skinner: People of Polo
Richard, the Earl of Tyrone, tells us a little but more about his 12-year-old mare Cheeky Monkey, winner of the HPA National Club Championship 15 Goal Polo Times Best Playing Pony Award at The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club
Cheeky Monkey Height: 15.1hh Age: 12-years-old Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Owner: Richard, the Earl of Tyrone Where is she from? I bought her ten years ago as a two-year-old in Ireland off a farmer called Robert Hogg, who runs
Bunclody Polo Club. My uncle David Thompson is a hunstman with the Laois Hunt, so he helps me out when I am looking for new ponies.
hard. She rarely gets tired. You can play her in two chukkas and she tries until the end.
Tell us about her background? She has a very good bloodline. Her sire Imperial Ballet is by Saddler’s Wells, the famous mile long sprinter. Her dam Pivot D’Amore, was a six-furlong sprinter who was by Pivotal a stallion, who was very famous around Europe.
How are her offspring doing now? They are both doing well. The one by Open Maestro has a lively nature and is small and easy to hit the ball off. She will make a lovely pony for someone but lacks a bit of power for me. The one by Osh Kosh is more electric like the mother and has a lot of ability and speed, I am very excited about playing her myself.
What are her strengths? Over 100 metres she is very quick and powerful. She has amazing sides, left and right and can go flat out around any corner. She is consistent, she has a big heart and always tries really
How has she gone this season? She has been great, the same as ever. Always consistent. What are your plans for her future? I want to keep playing her and in the future do a bit of breeding with her. She already has two embryos on the ground, one by Open Maestro and one by Oshgosh, they are six-year olds now.
Does she have any special quirks? When you go into a field with her she follows you around. Describe her in four words? Brave, talented, fun, friendly.
It’s never too early to start adding dates to your diary, and the Polo Pony classes, sponsored by Guards Polo Club, will be held on Thursday 11 May at the Royal Windsor Horse Show. The judges will be Lord Patrick Beresford and Guards Polo Manager Antony Fanshawe. Polo ponies have been showcased at RWHS since 1950 and for 2017 the show will be hosting two classes, with one open to all polo ponies of any breed and the second is restricted to former racehorses. The criteria for the former racehorses section is that the horse must have raced in Britain and be registered with Retraining of Racehorses. The winner and second from the four sections (3yo, 4yo, 5yo, 6yo) of the 2016 RoR Polo Challenge have an automatic, free entry into this class at Windsor Horse Show. The winners of both classes will receive £500 each, donated by Guards Polo Club and the RoR and will forward to the overall Polo Pony Championship and the chance to win the prestigious trophy.
Chance to win £2,500
with your former racehorse www.polotimes.co.uk
(raced in GB and registered with RoR)
Polo Times, March 2017
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Pony Power
Kevin Shaw tells us a little bit more about Pancho, his 14-year-old Argentine Criollo, Kevin played Pancho in the Images of Polo 5-8 Goal Victor Ludorum at All England Polo Club, Hickstead, where he was presented with the Polo Times Best Playing Pony Award
Pancho
What is Pancho’s history? I bought him four years ago from a patron of Richard Le Poer who imported him from Argentina. What are his strengths? He is a really strong, stocky but nimble Argentine type who suits arena polo really well. Pancho tries his heart out in matches and is exceptionally brave. He has been playing for a while now, so he reads the game well and is always keen to get to the plays quickly. Does he have any quirks? He often forgets that he is not a stallion and can be exceptionally keen and amorous with the mares in the paddock. He’s not particularly picky.
Photograph by ©Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com
Height: 15.1hh Age: 14-years-old Colour: Grey or ‘Snow White’ as Kevin describes him Sex: Gelding Owner: Kevin Shaw
Has he won any other awards? No, this is his debut. Describe in three words? Solid, arena machine.
Plans for 2017? I was actually thinking about moving him on this year, but after today I will definitely be keeping him for another season!
Chris Hyde tells us a little but more about Promise, a 10-year-old Australian Thoroughbred mare, owned by Chris’ son Jack. Chris played Promise in the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz 2017, where she was presented with the Polo Times Best Playing Pony Award her high speed and agilty. You can really push her and she always remains level headed. She does not have the strongest of ride-offs, but she does really make up for it with her extreme pace. Does she have any quirks? When she comes in from the winter you can’t get on her for a couple of weeks.
Photography by Richenda Hine/Polo Times
Has she won any awards before? Yes, she won Best Playing Pony a few times, most notably when I played her in the Final of the Archie David and at The Bryan Morrison Test Match last year. What are her plans for 2017? After Jack has finished playing the high goal he will be playing Promise for the rest of the season in the medium goal.
Promise Height: 15.1hh Age: 10-years-old Colour: Grey Sex: Mare Owner: Jack Hyde
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What is her history? Promise is an Australian Thoroughbred actually owned by my son Jack. He bought her from Ruki Baillieu in Australia two years ago as a made eight-year-old. I have been very fortunate to play her on behalf of Jack whilst he has been away playing the high goal. Promise with her groom, Mandy in St. Moritz this year
What are her strengths? She has a great head for the game, which really compliments
Has she played on snow before? Yes, she played with me in St. Moritz in 2016 and was fantastic. How quickly did she adapt to the snowy field? Promise is a very easy going horse and regularly plays in the arena with me. As such, she adapts really quickly to the snowy surface. Describe in three words? Athletic, honest, consistent. www.polotimes.co.uk
Pony Power
Knowledge
Nico San Roman, tells us a little bit more about his 14-year-old New Zealand Thoroughbred mare Jess, winner of the HPA National Club Championships 4-6 Goal Polo Times Best Playing Pony Award at The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club
Jess
Height: 15.2hh Age: 14-years-old Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Owner: Nico San Roman
How has she gone in the last year? I played her at Guards last year and she went really, really well for me. This season in the arena she has been fantastic. Has he won any other awards? Not that I know of, but I should ask Tom and Freddie… What are her strengths? She is really, really strong in the ride-off. She is not the fastest, but she turns really well and has a good mouth, which makes for a good combination. Does she have any special quirks? She goes crazy in the lorry! She is also bossy at home in the stable – a typical polo mare.
Photograph by Cymon Skinner: People of Polo
Where is she from? She came over from New Zealand with Tom Morley and was bought by a patron of mine at the time, Freddie Buxton. I bought her from Freddie last March, so have owned her for nearly a year now.
How has she gone this season? Absolutely amazing!
have a good rest until I bring her back in for the next arena season.
What are your plans for her future? I will turn her away at the end of March and she will
Describe her in four words? New Zealand little machine!
Will Emerson, tells us a little bit more about the 15-year-old mare Luna, winner of the Victor Ludorum 5-8 Goal Polo Times Best Playing Pony Award at The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club
Luna Height: 15.2hh Age: 15-years-old Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Owner: Co-owned by Will Emerson and his brother Mark Where is she from? Luna is an Irish Thoroughbred.
Tell us about her background? I’m sorry to say that I have forgotten about her dam and sire, but I know that she did have success on the track. Lanto Sheridan sourced her for me about eight years ago from the West Sussex Polo Club where I understand she was made. Has she won any other awards? Not that we know of, this is her first as far as I am aware. What are her strengths? She is seriously fast and powerful. In fact, I think she is one of the fastest ponies I have ever owned.
How has she gone this season? This is actually her first season in the arena and she has been amazing – definitely one of the best ponies I have played in the arena. Will she play outside this year? Yes, when I have finished the arena season she will then be played by my brother Mark for the summer season. What are your plans for her future? To carry on keeping her fit and able to play for as long as possible. Also part of the plan is that Mark will play her in the summer season rather than me!
Photograph by Cymon Skinner: People of Polo
Does she have any special quirks? Off the field she is very sweet and kind, on the field you have to push her hard as she can be a bit stick-shy – so the trick is to play fast so she does not have time to overthink things. Describe her in four words? She likes to run!
www.polotimes.co.uk
Polo Times, March 2017
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Nutrition Focus
Lorna Edgar – specialist equine nutritionist
Spring is here and work starts! With spring just around the corner, let’s look at what needs to be done and when The winter seems long, but I cannot believe I am already writing and thinking of the ponies coming back into work again. This seems to be done in so many different ways – feeding in the field since Christmas; introducing feed once they have been in work a week or so or introducing feed the day they come back from the fields. Obviously, my preferable option would be for them to have been fed in the field as this means they are one step ahead in their preparations for coming back into work and sudden changes in their diet are not going to occur. One yard I have worked with feeds Conditioning Cubes whilst the horses are still wintering, they come into work looking well and consequently are then moved to a balancer and ad lib hay. This seems to keep a ‘lid’ on their energy levels but the body condition and muscle development is not hindered. However, the key to bringing them in from the fields from winter, to be stabled and beginning to work is to make gradual changes by keeping forage in front of them at all times, and slowly (7-10 days) increasing the hard feed, not just 1 scoop in the morning and 1 scoop in the evening from day one! By doing this you are significantly reducing the risks of colic and digestive upsets such as loose droppings, and feeling a little too well! Bear in mind they have not received a diet containing particularly digestible energy, without a balance of vitamins and minerals
for 5 months, so you can’t blame them or the feed for feeling good!!! I strongly suggest using a pre/probiotic for those who need condition, as these are of benefit for all types of ponies. The pre/ probiotics assist hind gut bacteria when changes are made to diet and work status, for example when forage intake is reduced and hard feed increased. For those that lose weight easily throughout the season, using a prebiotic continuously is ideal. As I have already said, I would not even consider restricting their forage at this point. Let them eat as much as they want, it will not delay their fittening regime or make them fat, but will aid their transition back into work and enhance their rations. At this stage I would not even be looking at the ‘grass belly’, it is not a true indicator of fat, and is more suggestive of indigestible fibre (winter grass) passing through the digestive tract and a loss of muscle tone. Focusing on building top line muscle is going to be a lot more beneficial. If your ponies have wintered well, feeding for fitness will be easier as you will not be battling to put condition on whilst burning calories in work and so a high fibre, low energy cube will suffice. If you are very lucky and your ponies have done too well, use a balancer so protein (essential for muscle), vitamins and minerals are fed but not calories. Don’t be tempted not to feed at all as muscle development will not occur and immunity will not be supported.
It is important that any changes to diet are made gradually as ponies are brought back into work
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After the winter break ponies should initially have unrestricted access to forage
For those that have not done so well over the winter and condition is needed, I would suggest a conditioning feed – a cube rather than a mix if natural energy is abundant! Suggested Quantities to Feed: • Cube or Mix – 5-7lbs per day for initial work, increasing gradually to 10-14lbs for hard work – weigh your scoop! • Balancers are fed in small quantities, read instructions first, approximately 675-900gms per day for walking to canter work. • Bulking with alfalfa chaff will increase chewing time.
Spring exercise complete with fluffy winter whiskers!
www.polotimes.co.uk
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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
Photography courtesy of Reinhardt & Sommer
Andreas Krüger explains to polo player Tim Ward how compression and cooling devices can reduce muscle pain
Play Like a Pro & Treated By a Pro
Polo Times first met Andreas Krüger in Azerbaijan last September. We then saw him again at the Snow Polo World Cup St Moritz 2017, where it became evident that Andreas, or Andi as his friends call him, was no ordinary Doc. In the following interview, Andi tells us about how medical treatment and physiotherapy can increase player performance as well as decrease the risk of injuries incurred during polo “Faster than hockey, rougher than rugby, crazy as F1 Polo is a unique sport but the celebrated combination of speed and height has an attached risk of injury. Many sports in the 72
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world have the same combination and were played hundreds of years ago, however most of them have improved the technique and the safety level over time so that the injury rates have fallen. In contrast, over
the last 150 years, the speed at which polo is played has accelerated exponentially meaning that in many ways despite better equipment being used, injury levels in polo has at best stood still. Andi expands further: “Since my childhood I have been aware that horse riding and equine sport tournaments are not like any other sport. Accompanying my father to the local stables in my hometown, where he was the only tournament doctor for show jumping events and hunting, I learned from an early age that fun, easy and recreational activities on a horse, could quickly turn into an emergency, particurlay if the correct medical procedures were not followed. “Following an introduction to polo from World Polo’s Reto Gaudenzi, I began to treat international polo players with the aim to eliminate unnecessary injuries from the polo field as well as optimising the performance of the players. 15 years of experiences from other sports such as rugby, American Football and enduro motorbike racing in remote countries, allowed me to form an idea of how best to create a medical service for polo players. Worldwide, the current research data proves that the performance during sport tournaments can be increased www.polotimes.co.uk
Medical Insight: Polodoc
Knowledge
Treatment is given to polo player Tim Ward. Already commonly used in rugby, basketball and athletics the compression device produces excellent results for relieving tender muscles, when used in conjunction with electric muscle stimulation
and injury rates can be lowered easily if certain precautions are taken. How can this experience and mindset improve safety in polo? “At the snow polo tournament in Kitzbühel organized by Tito Gaudenzi and Lifestyle Events, Polodoc provided a medical tent with an emergency specialist. As well as myself as an orthopaedic and trauma specialist with paramedic crew, we had a performance tent with physiotherapist and all the equipment needed for onsite diagnosis and treatment of muscle and joint injuries. All players of the teams playing in the tournament had free access to 24 hour medical and physiotherapy service. Most of the sessions provided were for treatment of the upper and lower spine, as well for arm and leg musculature. Excellent results for the treatment of tender muscles, such as the adductors, were achieved when compression devices were used in combination with electric muscle stimulation. In cases of additional muscle injuries resulting from hard ride-offs, we used a combination of manual techniques with myofacial taping, as well as the use of the compression and cooling device, the combination of which significantly reduced the pain. Safety over vanity – Handheld devices in the field “The most feared injuries on the polo field are lung and head injuries, however diagnostic instruments for life-saving examination of lung and head injuries are
now available as handhelds. The infrared scanner called Infrascanner® allows an immediate check for cerebral bleeding and can be performed by trained persons within minutes, and the ultra portable Signos® is a handheld ultrasound device which can deliver useful information regarding severe lung injuries when minutes count. The information can also be transferred over the web to the next trauma centre for assistance and re-evaluations. After the tournament “In most cases, the professional players move on with long distance flights to another time zone to play the next polo game, and these short intervals for rehabilitation and recovery increase the strain to the body. However, the negative effects of travel can be addressed with specialised recovery compression underclothes such as CEP®.” At the end of our interview, Andi sagely concluded: “Anyone involved in polo fully understands that there are certain risks associated with the sport which can never be truly eliminated. Moreover, for some players and spectators, that is what gets their adrenaline flowing! However, from a medical perspective, should the unthinkable happen, the technology now exists to fast track diagnosis pitch-side leading to reductions in any long-term injury from occurring… so long of course, as the right medical team are in attendance with the correct diagnostic instruments.”
Being injury-free makes a huge difference to all sportsmen. “After I stopped feeling pain, when that was gone I decided I had to enjoy this more, it meant a lot. I tried to get in a mindset of enjoying the sport more. I still like winning regardless, though.” Aldofo Cambiaso, the world’s leading 10-goal polo player www.polotimes.co.uk
Andreas Krüger demonstrates the infrared brainscanner to Doctors in Baku, Azerbaijan
The compression device provides polo player Thomas Winter with post-match care for tender muscles
For more information on Polodoc contact Dr. med. Andreas Krüger at drmedkrueger@gmail.com www.polodoc.ch www.facebook.com/polodoc.ch +41 76 4790330
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Veterinary Focus
Gethin Maddocks MA, Vet MB, MRCVS, Meadowbrook Equine Clinic Gethin studied at Cambridge University and formed Meadowbrook Equine Clinic in 2001, he has a particular interest in sport horses and polo ponies.
Not All Frogs Like Water! Most polo ponies wintering at grass have experienced extremely wet grazing conditions for the past few months and unfortunately this will take its toll on their feet. Many polo ponies only receive infrequent and rudimentary foot care during the winter so one of the first priorities when they come in to start work is to thoroughly clean and inspect the feet for signs of injury and disease. Arrangements should be made for the farrier to trim, balance and shoe as required, this can take more time than usual because the feet need correctly balancing and ponies are often on edge after living a semiferal existence at grass so make allowances and spread the farrier’s work over more than one session if you have a large yard. The Frog One important structure of the foot which doesn’t like wet conditions is the frog. Situated on the underside of the foot the frog is an important shock absorber and allows expansion of the foot during loadbearing, it also helps promote circulation of blood within the foot and protects underlying musculoskeletal structures including the deep digital flexor tendon and navicular bone. central sulcus of the frog collateral sulcus bulb of the heel of the frog
All horse owners should be familiar with the structure of the frog and the importance of picking out debris from accumulating particularly in the deeper collateral sulci. The frog is under constant chemical and microbial assault from the environment. In clean dry conditions like on the Argentine Pampas the growth of the frog is sufficient to withstand the attack and unless the frog is injured e.g. by a nail from an avulsed shoe, frog pathology is relatively rare. This may explain why hoof picks are little used items in Argentina! In contrast our temperate climate produces many more environmental challenges to the integrity of the equine frog: wet mud, urine and faeces provide a hostile microbial environment and chemicals like ammonia from urine are directly corrosive. Frequent picking out of feet and allowing the foot to dry will help combat frog damage but in wet winter conditions with horses at grass this is often neglected. Modern stable management using rubber matting and minimal bedding often promotes contact of ammonia with the feet compared to the older system of porous floors and deeper beds which were pulled back during the day to allow the floor to dry. In Hong Kong they train horses to urinate on command in a bucket to keep the floor dry!
The Healthy Frog It is important to be familiar with the normal structure of the healthy frog. The key feature is the central sulcus and should form a depression, but there should not be a cleft present and the frog surface should be firm and free from cracks. The Diseased Frog This is a moderately diseased frog and you can clearly see erosion of the heel area and the central sulcus has formed a deep cleft into the digital cushion of the foot. Do not attempt to pick out the cleft with a hoof pick as this can cause pain and trauma to the delicate structures of the digital cushion. Dirt and debris can enter this deep cleft causing infection, pain and lameness which can be confused with navicular disease due to their anatomical proximity. It is important to seek veterinary advice whenever you or your farrier identify disease of the frog as early treatment is the best policy. Following superficial resection of the underrun frog tissue to provide access, antibacterial pastes can be injected twice daily into the cleft using a catheter tipped syringe and the cleft kept clean by use of an antimicrobial hoof pack (Hoof-Stuff, Red Horse Products).
angle of the wall bar
sole angle
apex of the frog straturn medium (hoof wall)
sole white line
Basic anatomy of the frog
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A healthy frog
A moderately diseased frog
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Veterinary focus
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This is a more severe case which was treated using a hospital plate (removable metal plate screwed onto underside of shoe) to provide a dry clean environment and a concentrated antibacterial paste was applied daily and maintained using gauze swabs.
Hospital plates can be used to promote cleanliness
Canker of the frog
Following treatment
Canker of the frog If left untreated, frog infections can progress to the much more severe disease of canker where the frog infection induces a poorly understood proliferative change in the frog causing its structure and appearance to be altered often permanently. Canker is a painful disease and much more difficult to treat requiring frequent medication and debridement, with no guarantee of success. So, if you have polo ponies coming in from the winter with signs of frog disease discuss it with your veterinary surgeon at the pre-season health check so you can start treatment without delay. www.polotimes.co.uk
Preventing frog problems Creating a dry clean environment for your polo ponies’ feet is always a challenge during our wet winters. Barring an Argentine relocation, selecting freely draining pastures and picking out feet regularly is the key to promoting healthy frog growth in polo ponies at grass. In stabled ponies; drainage of stables, yards, corals, horse-walkers exercise tracks and the removal of urine and faecal contamination is the best way to promote frog and foot health. Consider using more absorbent bedding on rubber mats when they are becoming urine soaked. Avoid runoff from muck heaps contaminating yards and paddocks. During transport, keep lorry floors clean and dry where possible by removing faeces promptly and using shavings or wood pellets to soak up urine. Good nutrition is also important and feeding a supplement to assist hoof growth containing adequate levels of biotin, methionine and zinc will ensure the key nutrients are available, but a more holistic approach to the diet is preferable. Topical antiseptic foot products can be helpful e.g. formaldehyde solution, but the feet must be thoroughly picked out and
cleaned first. Excessive use of formaldehyde can cause the hoof to become brittle. Discuss a shoeing strategy with your farrier at the start of the season, focus on the individual needs of each pony to work out the best way to overcome any issues e.g. heel collapse caused by too long a shoeing interval. Develop a yard management plan, the late William T. Ylvisaker, founder of Palm Beach Polo and Country Club published a Poloist’s Polo List some years ago which was his standard operating procedure for a polo yard. Many people have one in their head, so write the ideas down in a simple list of instructions and put it on the tack room wall, then everyone in your team knows what the plan is and who should be doing what and when. It won’t be perfect initially but you can refine and improve it, to make those marginal gains that are the key to polo success. Gethin Maddocks MA, Vet MB, MRCVS Meadowbrook Equine Clinic Luton Hoo Estate www.meadowbrookequine.com Tel: 0845 296 6675 Mobile: 07740461518 Email: gethin@meadowbrookequine.com
Polo Times, March 2017
75
Knowledge
Equipment Focus: Bits
Stephen Biddlecombe of Equine Management Ltd answers a reader’s question on bitting
Bits to Fit Q – I have a fairly hot, young former racehorse and plan to get her a Happy Tongue Three Ring, as I gather it has a medium port that helps some horses to relax, due to the extra tongue space. However I am finding the bit sizing tricky. Based on her current bit which is a snaffle gag, I think she will need a 120 mm (4¾”), but would be grateful for any measuring advice. Kit Maxwell, Hants
The Happy Tongue Three Ring has a loose ring fitting
A – Bits are measured from inside the cheek pieces, from ring to ring. There are several options available to you: 1. A ‘bit measure’ You could buy or borrow a bit measure – these gadgets cost around £50 and are fitted inside the mouth – a gauge accurately tells you the size required, and they are available for the different brands of bit available – Bombers Bits does sell a bit measure within its product range. Once in the horse’s mouth, you will need to lift the measure into the correct place; just before any wrinkles begin to form, note the sizing detailed on the measure, just outside the mouth’s lip creases. 2. A straight rod Using any straight rod, like a wooden spoon handle, can achieve the same result as a proper bit measure. With assistance, lift the rod to the correct place in the mouth, and mark the rod on both sides with a pen, just outside the lip crease. Measuring between these marks gives you the measured mouth size. 3. Borrowing a bit Whilst you could also try a few other bits that friends or teammates have for size, this can be problematic, as the type of mouthpiece and cheekpiece of the bit that you measured could affect the sizing; e.g. if the bit you need is a loose ring, which measures slightly longer, and the bit you are borrowing is a fixed cheek piece bit. If however you do have a bit to borrow that is similar to the one you want, and is the right size, you can simply lay it down on a flat surface and pull the rings apart so the bit is at its maximum length. Measure along the full length of the mouthpiece from the inside edge of the ring to the inside edge of the opposite ring with
76
Polo Times, March 2017
Bit measures are fitted inside the mouth to accurately tell you the bit size required
a ruler, choosing inches or centimetres. You could also ask a reputable bitting retailer about their hire packages, having established the size that you believe you need. In my experience, most horses are fitted with bits that are too tight, and this just adds more pressure points to the ‘bitting mix’. With a fixed mouthpiece, the size required is the measured size, and with single and double jointed bits, this should
be the measured size, plus 10 mm to take into account the joints. In addition to these factors, add 5mm if the bit has a loose ring cheek piece. Nothing additional needs to be added for fixed cheek pieces. The Happy Tongue Three Ring that you’re considering has a loose ring fitting. Photos are also useful if you’re dealing directly with a retailer – you can contact Bombers Bits at the email below with enquiries and photos, if you would like.
Bombers Bits include hundreds of off the shelf bitting solutions, and customers can even design their own bespoke bit from a selection of mouth pieces, cheek pieces and widths, using a ‘design your own bit’ service. Bombers bits are made from blue sweet iron - the metal oxidises easily, creating a warm, sweet taste in the horse’s mouth. This encourages the horse to salivate. Visit www.worldwidetack.com. Submit your bitting questions to info@equineman.com to enter a prize draw to win a voucher towards the Bombers Bit of your choice.
www.polotimes.co.uk
Jan-Erik Franck, Reto Gaudenzi & Christian Dunkelberg
Uli Theilmann, Annie & Henry Bodmer, Daniela Märky & Alaine Vaucher
Tony Ramirez of Images of Polo
Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz; Engadin Valley, St. Moritz; 27 – 29 January
Sparkling St. Moritz Over the course of the three-day snow polo extravaganza, a record-breaking 15,000 fur-clad spectators gathered upon the frozen lake enjoying the best hospitality the historic birthplace of snow polo, St. Moritz has to offer. With each team chaperoned onto the ice by Maseratis accompanied by individual team music, and standing ovations from the crowd, the snow polo showbiz stakes have certainly been upped. With the January sun blazing down upon the spectators, the Deutsche Bank and Cartier blankets were almost superfluous, although a refreshing glass of Perrier-Jouët is always a welcome sight. To top it all off, the teams put on another phenomenal display of the exhilaration snow polo has to offer.
Charles Armstrong & Grant Ganzi
Freddie Horne & Anuschka Bahlsen
Chris Hyde
Photography by Richard Hine/Polo Times, fotoswiss.com/ giancarlo cattaneo & Tony Ramirez/©www.imagesofpolo.com
Alana Schönborn & Elizaveta Shantalosova
Matteo Beffa
Pato Bolanterio, Millie & Lucas Labat
VIP spectators enjoyed complimentary ice-cold Perrier-Jouët
Sylvia Woods with Charlie
Amelia Petrova & Omar Shah
Polo Times’ reporters were at St. Moritz reporting live
Luca, Gianna, Werner & Fabio Meier
James Beh & Christian Gartmann
Overall winners, Cartier, had plenty of raucous support from the crowd Dorigo Pedrolini, Barbara & Andi Krüger
Marcelo Garrahan & Tim Keyte
Oli Ellis & DJ Cruz
The Badrutt’s Palace ‘bell Boy’ ensured everyone was on time
Daniel Reinger, Karl-Friedrich Keunecke & Moet Bdeir
Merlito & Timmy
Domenico Agosti & Natalie Zegoda with Lucy
Alejandro Novillo Astrada, Susie Mair & Jesse Bray
Maïta Vidal, Waleed Ahmed, Apolline Humann, Benedict van Hövell, Katerina Zabrovskaya, Pierre Gerard, Fiamma Pasanisi, Timothy Oluwaremi & Marc Friedl
Sarah Griffith & Harriet Hope
Alex Lebedev & Nadir Adoul-Rutherfoord
Warwick Polo Club Annual Black Tie Charity Ball; Chesford Grange Hotel; Saturday 21 January
Record Breaking Ball
Hannah Thickett, Angela Romero, Michael Botros, Charlotte Strange, Amber Sims & Georgina Meadowcroft
This year, the Annual Charity Polo Ball was in aid of the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance and Warwick Polo Club were joined by guests from Birmingham City Polo Club. With over 80 guests and many generous companies who donated raffle prizes, an amazing £1,149.65 was raised for charity, which is a record-breaking amount for the Club. Guests enjoyed a drinks reception, followed by a three-course dinner accompanied by wine and live jazz music from the Oxford Jazz ¾, followed by a DJ. The majority of money was raised by the charity raffle and this included a range of amazing prizes donated by La Martina, Pampeano, Polo Splice, Uber Polo, SSG Gloves, Annabel Brocks, Warwick Racecourse, Taste of Game, Hi Ho Silver, Two Birds Spirits, Polo Times, Warwick Castle and many more.
Kristine Jensen, James Tunstall & Natasha Ottley-Kerr
Photography by Holly Newman & Go-2 Events
Nick Nott, Sophie Rey, Marthe Ydalus & Teshan Wijesuriya
The girls of Warwick Polo Club
Teshan Wijesuriya & Matthew Lloyd
The men of Warwick Polo Club
Connie Buchanan, Pierre Gerard & Jasmine Carr
Alice Walsh, Emma Carr & Connie Buchanan
Spectators braved the cold to enjoy a fast-paced Final
Niall Donnelly & John Bunn
Images of Polo Victor Ludorum 5-8 Goal; The All England Polo Club, Hickstead; Sunday 12 February
Chilly Hickstead Hots Up
Hannah Johnson
Despite freezing weather conditions, a fantastic Final was had at The All England Polo Club, Hickstead. Both teams played with gusto and the score continued to seesaw until Exclusive Rooms finally gained the upper hand to win 11-8 against Red River. Niall Donnelly won the Images of Polo Most Valuable Player Award and Kevin Shaw’s Pancho won the Polo Times Best Playing Pony rug. After the Final, the friendly atmosphere continued as the crowd and players alike tucked into some much needed warming Chukka Cocktails courtesy of British Polo Gin and a Sunday roast in the Clubhouse. Photography by Richard Hine/Polo Times, fotoswiss.com/giancarlo cattaneo & Tony Ramirez/Šwww.imagesofpolo.com The Shaw boys
Jessica Marco & Kevin Shaw
Guards Polo Club timekeeper Gerry Gibson Tara Smith from Guards Polo Club
British Polo Gin was well received at Hickstead
Daniel Acosta & Sarah Wiseman, who have recently celebrated their 10th anniversary as a couple
Commentator Seb Baker
Guards Polo Club on tour: Tara Smith, Tissy Van Reyk & Pam Manku
Exclusive Rooms patron Kevin Shaw with his greatest supporter
George Woodward, Chris Benford, Graham Wooldridge & Natasha Richards
Eva Gripenstedt & Charlie Howell
Steve Mc Dermott, Peter & George Woodward
Paul Sweeney Memorial Tournament; Ash Farm; 28 – 29 January
Ash Farm Fun Ash Farm hosted the annual Paul Sweeney Memorial Tournament with a weekend of competitive polo in both the 3 and 8 goal. A whole host of spectators and supporters came together to enjoy the matches, as well as Ash Farm’s hospitality with delicious authentic Argentine stews and drinks aplenty inside the toasty Clubhouse. Following Sunday’s Finals, spectators warmed themselves by the Clubhouse fire, reflected on the weekend’s polo and the buzzy atmosphere continued well into the evening. Photography by Graham Morrison Richard Newman, Sophie Morrison & Izzy McGregor
Danny Murial & Micheal Poppel
Juan Murial
Lauren Bennett & Will Shadbolt
Ed & David Banner-Eve with Francesca Smith
Nicola, Ronnie & James Taylor
Helen Taylor & Sophie Byrne
Aya Poppel cooks up a storm
Lucy Northmore & Gillian Hughes
Jemma Byrne
Chris Benford, Lesley Sweeney, Melissa & Laura Hicks
Ben Marsh & Daisy Adamson
Dates for Your Diary
What’s On
Polo directory
International Highlights
Key UK Arena Season Dates
RCBPC – The Arena Gold Cup Final (13-15): 25 February AEPC – The Bryan Morrison International Trophy (Open): 4 March
Arena Victor Ludorum Dates Rugby – Victor Ludorum 5-8 Goal: 21 – 26 February
February/March Club Fixtures
FHM – The Polo Splice Shield (-3-0): 25 February Wicklow Polo Club – France V Ireland (Open): 25 February Epsom – St Patrick’s Cup (2-4): 25 – 26 February Ash Farm – Challenge Matches: 25 – 26 February Druids Lodge – The Watersfield Challenge: February 19 – 12 March Dallas Burston – The Charlotte Trophy: 4 – 5 March Dallas Burston – Lands Eventing March: 11 – 12 March
West Wycombe – Ladies’ Winter Championships (0-2, 3-4 & 4-6): 25 – 26 February Hickstead – Ladies’ Tournament & Battle of the Sexes: 25 – 26 February West Wycombe – SUPA National School Girls Championships (Open): 19 March Chantilly Polo Club – Ladies’ European Championship: 28 April – 7 May Dallas Burston Polo – Club Ladies’ Day: 10 June Hurtwoord Polo academy – Junior Ladies’ Cup: 17 – 18 June Mongolia – The Ladies’ Polo Cup: 7 – 16 July
Croatia America
IPC – C.V. Whitney Cup (26): 22 February – 5 March Grand Champions Polo Club – $50,000 National 12 Goal Tournament (12): 3 March Grand Champions Polo Club – National 20 Goal (16-20): 3 – 25 March Grand Champions Polo Club – World Cup $100,000 Tournament (26): 4 April March IPC – USPA Gold Cup (26): 8 – 26 March IPC – US Open Polo Championship (26): 29 March – 23 April Santa Barbara – The Belmond El Encanto Polo Cup (16): 7 – 9 July Santa Barbara – Robert Skene Trophy (16): 14 – 23 July Santa Barbara – Engel & Völkers USPA America Cup (16): July 28 – 6 August Santa Barbara – Gulfstream Pacific Coast Open (16): 10 – 27 August
Rovini – Beach Polo Tournament: 18 – 21 May
Dominican Republic
Casa de Campo – Gold Cup Polo Challenge (22): 4 – 26 March Casa de Campo – The Caribbean Open (26): March 30 – 15 April
Dubai
Australia
Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club – Julius Baer Gold Cup / Dubai Open (18): 18 February – 10 March Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club – Dubai Challenge Cup (18): 17 – 31 March
Kurri Burri Polo Club – 16 Goal Tournament (16): 3 – 4 March Ellerston – 16 Goal Tournament (16): 11 – 19 March Duncraig Stud – Polo in the Valley: 2 April Sydney Polo Club – XI FIP World Polo Championships (12): 21 – 29 October
Germany
Hörnum – 10th Julius Bär Beach Polo World Cup Sylt: 3 – 4 June 2017 Keitum – 20th Berenberg German Polo Masters: 2 – 6 August 2017
Youth Polo Druids Lodge – Varsity Match (London vs UWE): 25 February West Wycombe – Junior Schools Arena Nationals: 26 February Rugby – SUPA National Senior Schools (Open): 5 March West Wycombe – Ladies’ Schools Arena Nationals: 19 March Beaufort – Javier Novillo Astrada U15 Cup: Sunday 11 June
www.polotimes.co.uk
Barbados
Holders and Apes Hill – Hill Cheshire Tour: February 26 – 5 March Apes Hill – International Ladies’ Tour: 21 – 25 March Apes Hill – Hickstead Tour: 1 – 8 April Apes Hill – Ferne Park Tour: 9 – 13 April Holders – South African Tour: 12 –19 April Holders – Jamaican Tour: 3 – 7 May Holders – President’s & Kearns Trophy: 13 May
South Africa
Plett Polo Club – 12 Goal (12): 27 March – 1 April Plett Polo Club – South African Open: 2 April
Polo Times, March 2017
83
Polo directory
Dates for Your Diary
England Internationals
Snow Polo Dates
Beaufort – International Test Match (England vs TBC): 29 July Guards – Royal Salute Coronation Cup (England vs The Commonwealth): 29 July
Tremblant – Snow Polo Tremblant International: 2 – 4 March St. Moritz – Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz 2018: 26 –28 January 2018
THE ROYAL SALUTE C O RO N AT I O N C U P
12 Goal Victor Ludorum
Cowdray – Dollar Cup: May 15 – 4 June RCBPC – John Prestwich: 5 – 17 June Beaufort – Prince of Wales: June 19 – 1 July Cirencester – The Queen Mother Trophy: 3 – 16 July Guards – Duke of Wellington: 5 – 20 August Cirencester – Cheltenham Cup: August 29 – 10 September Cowdray – Autumn League: 12 – 24 September
8 Goal Victor Ludorum
Cirencester – Gerald Balding: 15 – 29 May Guards – The Hildon Water Archie David Cup: June 9 – 2 August RCBPC– Julian and Howard Hipwood Trophy: 5 – 23 July Cowdray – Holden White: July 24 – 6 August Beaufort – Wichenford Bowl: 14 –27 August
Social Events
Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club – Dubai Polo Awards (18): 13 March The Wanderers Club, Florida – Nic Roldan’s 2nd Annual Sunset Polo & White Party: Friday 24 March Dallas Burston – Open Season Party: 19 May Guards – The Polo Awards 2017: 30 May Edgeworth – Summer Polo Ball: 3 June Leadenham Polo Club – Summer Ball: Saturday 8 July
2017 Victor Ludorum and High Goal Dates
22+ Goal RCBPC – Prince of Wales: 6 – 20 May Guards – Cartier Queen’s Cup: May 23 – 18 June Cirencester – Warwickshire Cup: 20 – 25 June Cowdray – Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup: June 27 – 23 July
ENGLAND V
Beach Polo
Watergate Bay – Polo on the Beach: 19 – 21 May Sandbanks – British Beach Polo Championships: 7 – 8 July
THE COMMONWEALTH 18 Goal Victor Ludorum INTER N ATofI Sutherland: O N A L P May OLO Cowdray – Duke 20 – Guards Polo Club, Windsor Great Park 11 June Cirencester – Apsley Cup: June 14 – 2 July Saturday 23rdEmpire July | Tickets from4£20 Guards – Indian Shield: – 22 July For more information please Cowdray – Challenge Cup: Julyvisit 24 – 6 coronationcuppolo.com or call +44 (0) 1784 437 797 August 15 Goal Victor Ludorum
Guards – Bentley Royal Windsor: 5 – 25 June RCBPC – Eduardo Moore: June 27 – 15 July Cowdray – Harrison Cup: July 17 – 5 August Cirencester – County Cup: 7 – 19 August Beaufort – Arthur Lucas: August 22 – 3 September
Something Different
London – Chestertons Polo in the Park: 9 – 11 June
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.
6 Goal Victor Ludorum
DBPC – The Stoneythorpe Cup: 15 – 28 May Beaufort – Eduardo Rojas Lanusse: 5 – 17 June Rutland – Assam Cup: June 27 – 2 July Cheshire – County Cup: 10 – 16 July Cambridge County – The Cavendish Cup: 24 – 30 July Kirtlington – Budgett Everett Trophy: 3 – 14 August HPC – Roehampton Cup: 15 – 27 August Cirencester – Kingscote Cup: August 28 – 9 September
Quick Question Answer -
to the question posed on
our Letters page A: Neil Hobday, The Chief Executive of Guards Polo Club was Consultant Project Director on a five year contract for the Trump Organisation in Scotland immediately prior to his appointment at Guards in 2011.
Club contacts UK and Ireland CLUB
PHONE
CLUB
PHONE
All Ireland Polo Club
00353 (0) 1 6896732
dstone@indigo.ie
Cheshire Polo Club
01270 611 100
info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk
All England Polo Club Hickstead*
01273 834 315
polo@hickstead.co.uk
Chiltern Polo Club
07973 174542
info@chilternpoloclub.com
Ash Farm Polo Club*
07799 812739
ashfarmpolo@hotmail.com
Cirencester Polo Club
01285 653225
info@cirencesterpolo.co.uk
Apsley End
01462 712444
peter.pollak@btopenworld.com
Cowdray Polo Club
01730 813257
enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk
Beaufort Polo Club
01666 880510
enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk
CSPA
01672 5649114
markcann@cspa.org.uk
Beverley Polo Club*
01964 544877
info@beverleypoloclub.co.uk
Curraghmore Polo Club
00353 51 387102
mkennedy@cssgroup.ie
Binfield Heath
01491 411969
bhpcmanager@gmail.com
Dallas Burston Polo Club*
01926 812409
ella@ixlevents.com
Blueys Polo Club*
0771 0558485
polomanager@blueyspolo.co.uk
Druids Lodge Polo Club*
01722 782597
abi@druidspolo.co.uk
Bunclody Polo Club
00353 87 6605917
info@poloclubbunclody.com
Dundee and Perth Polo Club*
07831 365 194
gillian@glockhart.wanadoo.co.uk
Burningfold Polo Club
01483 200722
derrek@burningfold.com
Eastwood
07875 743475
secretary@eastwoodpolo.co.uk
Cambridge Polo Club*
07711 217004
cambridgepolo@icloud.com
Edgeworth Polo Club
01285 821695
edgeworthpolo@gmail.com
Cambridge County Polo Club*
01223 812922
info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk
Edinburgh Polo Club*
01314 496696
djamesjamie@aol.com
Chester Racecourse Polo Club
01244 304602
amorris@chester-races.com
Epsom Polo Club*
07961 232106
epsompoloclub@hotmail.com
84
Polo Times, March 2017
www.polotimes.co.uk
Dates for Your Diary
Polo directory
CLUB
PHONE
CLUB
PHONE
Fifield Polo Club*
01628 620061
fifieldpoloclub@live.co.uk
Ranksboro Polo Club*
01572 723755
polojoe@hotmail.com
FHM Polo Club
07778 436468
fhmpolo@yahoo.co.uk
RCBPC*
01344 890060
polo@rcbpc.com
Guards Polo Club*
01784 434212
polo@guardspoloclub.com
RMAS Polo Club
07973 174542
RMAS-HQ-O&D-S03@mod.uk
Ham Polo Club
020 8334 0000
office@hampoloclub.com
Royal Navy Polo Club
07950 328097
jockiewilson@hotmail.co.uk
Heathfield Polo Club*
07762 069 420
info@heathfieldparkpolo.co.uk
Rugby Polo Club*
01788 817724
info@rugbypoloclub.com
Hertfordshire Polo Club*
01707 256023
polo@hertspolo.co.uk
Rutland Polo Club
07920 521285
polomanager@rutlandpoloclub.co.uk
Hurtwood Polo Club
01483 272828
gary@hurtwoodparkpolo.com
Rockett’s Castle
00353 87 2520301
rockettscastlepolo@gmail.com
Inglesham Polo Club*
07818 508136
mattevetts@hotmail.com
Rowley Park Polo Club*
07971 200160
carterlegeorge@hotmail.co.uk
Kirtlington Park Polo Club
01869 350138
info@kirtlingtonparkpolo.co.uk
Silver Leys Polo Club
07535 697854
silverleyspoloclub@gmail.com
Knepp Castle Polo Club
07920 023639
info@aspectpolo.co.uk
St. Albans Polo lub
07535 697854
info@stalbanspoloclub.co.uk
Leadenham Polo Club
01400 272885
jameshreeve@hotmail.com
Suffolk Polo Club
07990 576974
aes3@cam.ac.uk
Longdole Polo Club*
01452 864544
info@longdolepolo.com
Sussex Polo Club
01342 714920
info@sussexpolo.co.uk
Luton Hoo
07934 882713
info@poloprive.com
SWF*
01962 885500
info@maywoodpolo.com
Dorset Polo Club
01202 621486
office@dorsetpolo.co.uk
Taunton Vale Polo Club
01823 480460
nhs@supanet.com
Moor Hall Farm Polo Club*
01279 450637
alecbeve@btinternet.com
Tidworth Polo Club*
01980 846705
info@tidworthpolo.com
New Forest Polo Club
02380 811818
info@newforestpoloclub.co.uk
Toulston Polo Club
01422 372529
info@toulstonpoloclub.com
Norfolk Polo Club
01508 480400
office@norfolkpolo.co.uk
Vale of York Polo Club
07788 426968
info@valeofyorkpoloclub.co.uk
Northern Ireland Polo Club
02890231777
robert@hellomxb.com
Vaux Park Park Polo Club*
07703 524613
vppc@btconnect.com
Offchurch Bury Polo Club*
07816 830887
info@offchurchburypoloclub.co.uk
West Wycombe Park Polo Club*
07787 560729
secretary@westwycombepolo.co.uk
Pangbourne Polo Club
07708 906810
aprice@polofix.com
Westcroft Park Polo Club*
01276 858545
info@westcroftparkpolo.co.uk
Peover Polo Club
07766 016 833
polomanager@peoverpoloclub.co.uk
White Rose Polo Club
01430 875767
info@whiterosepolo.co.uk
RAF Cranwell
07739 569491
rafcranwellpoloclub@yahoo.co.uk
White Waltham Polo Club
07748 670587
kim@playpolo.co.uk
Ranelagh Polo Club*
01344 885697
polo@ranelaghfarm.com
Wicklow Polo*
00353 404 67164
siobhan@polowicklow.com * Also open for arena polo in the UK winter
T&SHARKER HORSEBOXES
Special occasion polo cards for birthdays, anniversaries, get well soon, weddings, & baby congratulations; from £2.99 plus p&p Visit www.Katesart.com or txt/tel 07887 678421 or email: enquiries@Katesart.com image copyright protected by Katesart.com 2007
A large selection of Horseboxes to choose from ALL VEHICLES BUILT TO AN EXCEPTIONALLY HIGH SPEC
Accident/General repair work undertaken • Body Changes Vehicles Serviced with DEFRA Certificates to carry horses over 12 Hours • Various models from 2-12 horses 17 horse Arctic trailers also built • Also available built to order using your own spec.
Visit our website to view our extensive range of horseboxes
www.tsharkercommercials-horseboxes.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1325 332649 Mobile: +44 (0)7901 857960 Fax: +44 (0)1325 333554
Email: enquiries@tandsharkerhorseboxes.co.uk
UK IMMIGRATION SERVICES
Level 1 OISC registered immigration consultants specialising in work related immigration for polo
www.polopermits.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1798 869496 Email: info@polopermits.co.uk
Polopermits Ltd - Authorised by the OISC. Ref. No. F201400827
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Polo Times, March 2017
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Polo directory
Marketplace Equipment
£6.50
Situations FULL TIME ENTHUSIASTIC GROOM REQUIRED All aspects of day to day care. Must be capable of helping children to improve riding. Accomodation available. £250/ week. Further info please email teamchandler@hotmail.co.uk Reading, Berkshire
SCOREBOARDS AND CLOCKS DESIGNED FOR POLO Outdoor and arena sizes. Fully electronic, displaying the time counting down, both scores and chukka number. Automatic bell/horn. Controlled wirelessly by a remote control you can even wear on your arm. Visit www.SportingDesigns.co.uk or call +44 (0)7860 303217
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.co.uk www.polotimes 2017 • Issue 2 • March Volume 22 •
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P O LO’S O RI G INAL SUPP O RT ER S , A N D M A S T E R S I N O U R F I E L D S I N C E 174 9 . See all the leading events we’re sponsoring this season. Justerinis.com/polo-tour
Final bell
In association with Aprés Polo
We catch up with 7 goal player and snow polo player extraordinaire, Dario Musso, fresh from his victory with Team Cartier in the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz, to find out what makes the leading Argentine player and all round great guy tick What is your biggest passion and why? My biggest passion without doubt is horses. I was pretty much born and raised beside horses. They are a fundamental part of my life!
Favourite film? This has to be the epic Gladiator. It really portrays Rome and the Roman Empire as it was all those years ago. Perfect.
Who has been your favourite player to play with and why? I have been fortunate to play alongside so many great players and friends that I don’t think I can single a particular player out! I can however say that I most enjoy and play my best polo when I am in a team that has a fantastic atmosphere.
Favourite celebrity and why? My idol is Gabriel Batistuta. He scored 56 goals for Argentina and a hat trick at the 1994 and 1998 World Cups. Legend.
Who has been your hardest opponent? Throughout my career I have always been pitched against some of the best and hardest players. Again I don’t think I can single out a particular player as all players have aspects of their play that are challenging.
What is your preferred role in the team? I like to try and play in the middle of the team which allows me to always be in the heat of the game trying to win control of the middle of the field.
Best holiday destination & activity My favourite place to be is my house in General Lavalle, Cordoba.
Which is your favourite horse and why? My favourite horse has to be Capatas who I have had for thirteen years. We have played together against some of the best horses and in Europe and she never lets me down. Describe yourself I am a really hardworking person but I always try to have fun and with all aspects of my work. One thing which would surprise us about you I am always happy to make sacrifices to achieve my goals.
Which sports do you like outside of polo? Football – my favourite team is Belgrano de Córdoba
Photograph courtesy of La Esperanza
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