Polo Times November 2019

Volume 24 • Issue 10 • November 2019 • £6.50

POLO HOLIDAYS The perfect polo destination HIGH GOAL GUIDE In-depth Argentine Guide CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE The perfect festive list PLUS: Report from Xtreme Polo League & jam-packed Knowledge section

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Contents Publisher Nick Hine publisher@polotimes.co.uk

What’s inside…

November 2019

Editor in Chief Richenda Hine richenda@polotimes.co.uk Editorial Manager Jen Liggins editorial@polotimes.co.uk Operations Manager Rosabella Hine rosabella@polotimes.co.uk

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Marketing Manager Lottie McDonagh lottie@polotimes.co.uk

Women’s Polo

Advertising Sales

45 45

Richard Hine ads@polotimes.co.uk

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Youth Polo 48

Subscription Sales Rebecca Hastie sales@hinemarketing.co.uk

Comment

49 Pony Power: Polo Times Best Playing

Pony Series 50 Equine Reiki: The Holistic Approach 52 GCSE and A Level Revision 54 Fitness Insight: Climb the Fitness

Ladder: Part Two 56 Nutrition Focus: Broodmare & Foal Nutrition 58 Polodoc: Foot Fractures 60 Rege Ludwig: The Law of Sequence 62 Shane Borland: Final Step to Success

16

Sidelines

James Morgan

54

Tony Ruddy

News Subscriptions & Administration Assistant Lynne Berry admin@polotimes.co.uk Financial Controller Angie Clark accounts@polotimes.co.uk Accounts & Administration Assistant Rosalind Cutter ads@polotimes.co.uk Contributors: Mark Beaumont, Shane Borland, Matias Calléjo, Helen Cruden, Lorna Edgar, Gill Glimmerveen, Ben Hastie, Mark R. Heath, Dr.med. Andreas Krüger, John Lincourt, Peter Meade, Katie Perez, ©Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com, Funzen Pun, Tom Reynolds Photography, Jason Warren, Kelly Wells & Valerie Westfield

Contact details Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton, Glos, GL2 9LN Tel: 01452 730770 email:admin@polotimes.co.uk

www.polotimes.co.uk © Polo Times Limited 2019 and Database Right 2019 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

All Aspects of Youth Polo

Knowledge

Principal Design

Additional Design

5 mins with… Alison Clark A Round-Up of Women’s Polo

2 9 14

All the Latest News Obituary: Ginger Baker FIP News

Letters: Your Views & Social Media

Features 18 24

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Cover Story: Polo Holidays Polo Cover Story: Argentine 70 High Goal Guide Cover Story: Christmas Gift Guide

Cover Story: Xtreme Polo League

Club Focus 37

Gossip: Don’t Be the Last to Know!

Sidelines: Social Pages

Directory What’s On?

Final Bell

Reports 34

64 66

Your Club News from Home and Abroad

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Passions: Caspar West

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Call on +44 (0)1452 730 770 Subscribe online: www.polotimes.co.uk Cover Photograph: Facundo Pieres for Ellerstina, firing down the line to win the inaugural Xtreme Polo League. By Helen Cruden Photography

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Polo Times, November 2019

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News

Welcome all to the penultimate issue of Polo Times for 2019! What a year 2019 has been, more recently with the UK’s political turmoil reflected in the environmental commotion being faced by the Argentine polo community as yet again, surprise, surprise, wet weather has caused havoc to the start of their Spring season.

The damp conditions meant that after postponements and delays it was decided that The Tortugas Open Final should be cancelled, with both teams raising concern over safety due to the slippery field conditions, less than five minutes into the Final between La Dolfina and Ellerstina.

There is talk of the Final being rescheduled for Friday 15 November, the day before The Argentine Open begins. This uncertainty and continued postponement, echoes the continued Brexit negotiations back in blighty between Boris Johnson and the European Union. With a Christmas election having just been decided, it does not feel like the issue of Brexit will be leaving the front pages any time soon.

If the wet and windy British weather is getting the best of you, then our Polo Holiday feature is the perfect place to find your sunny polo getaway. This issue has an overflowing Knowledge section, with everything from equine reiki to broodmare nutrition; from finding fitness to foot fractures in players. The Christmas Gift Guide is full of ideas for your nearest and dearest and well worth a gander – all in all, plenty of food for thought for both you and your ponies.

However, at Polo Times HQ, we always like to keep our glasses half full and, despite the UK polo scene currently experiencing a quieter time, it is encouraging to see clubs across the country renovating their arenas in anticipation for the impending arena activity. So, here is to a continued optimistic outlook and an exciting 2019/20 arena season.

“Life is a rollercoaster, just gotta ride it”.

Tortugas Open Postponed

Nick Hine, Publisher

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Polo Times, November 2019

At the time of going to press, The Tortugas Open Final had been postponed due to poor weather. Prior to game day, The Tortugas Country Club was inundated with heavy rain, but it seemed as if it might all come true on the day itself, with the sun shining. However, La Dolfina and Ellerstina only managed to play 4.45 minutes of the first chukka, with both teams agreeing the ground was too slippery and therefore dangerous to continue play. Both teams are keen to find another date to resume the match, with 15 November currently proposed, the day before The Argentine Open commences.

Photograph by Helen Cruden Photography

from the Publisher

2018 Tortugas winners, La Dolfina

Gauntlet of Polo Returns

After its 2019 debut, The Gauntlet of Polo will once again return, this year with 14 teams set to compete. With a potential $1,000,000 prize pot up for grabs, new teams have been attracted to the series of tournaments, with 2019 champions Pilot also returning to defend their title.

“We are proud to have set into motion a tournament series which encapsulates the very best of polo competition in the United States for both players and spectators. The eyes of the polo world will soon turn to the International Polo Club Palm Beach to witness many of the best players and polo teams in the world vying for a chance to take home the $1,000,000 purse and earn the honour of being a Gauntlet Champion” said Robert Puetz, CEO of the United States Polo Association.

The 2020 Gauntlet of Polo will begin with The C.V. Whitney Cup (1 –23 February), followed by The USPA Gold Cup (22 February – 22 March) and finish with The U.S. Open Polo Championship (21 March – 19 April).

2020 Gauntlet of Polo Teams: 1. Cessna 2. Coca-Cola 3. Daily Racing Form 4. Dutta Corp 5. Equuleus 6. La Indiana

7. Las Monjitas 8. Old Hickory Bourbon 9. Park Place 10. Patagones 11. Pilot 12. Postage Stamp Farm 13. Santa Clara 14. Tonkawa

Photograph by Matias Calléjo

Metropolitan Tournament

La Natividad win The Metropolitan Tournament

On Thursday 10 October, the high goal Metropolitan Tournament came to an end at the AAP in Pilar. In the Final, La Natividad defeated Los Indios/Indios Chapaleufú, 11-4, to win the title.

Open Sangria, played by ‘Jeta’ Castagnola, was named the Best Playing Pony.

The Metropolitan Tournament Final Teams: La Natividad (23): Camilo ‘Jeta’ Castagnola (6), Mackenzie Weisz (3), Bartolito Castagnola (7) & Matías Torres Zavaleta (7) Los Indios/Indios Chapaleufú (23): Eduardo Heguy (7), Francisco Bensadón (7), Rufino Bensadón (5) & Cruz Heguy (4) www.polotimes.co.uk

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News Tournoi d’Autumne Ends

U.S. Polo Assn. Sponsor 40 Goal Challenge

Photograph courtesy of Charlie Tighe

The Polo Players Support Group (PPSG) has announced the appointment of the U.S. Polo Assn. as title sponsor for the 2020 40 Goal Polo Challenge. The event has taken place each winter since 2002, welcoming eight of the world’s best players to compete in an all-star match in aid of the PPSG. Since its creation in 2002, the PPSG has provided financial assistance to 82 seriously injured and ill polo players and grooms totalling over $2.6million.

USPA 2019 Annual Outdoor Handicap Changes

Equine Flu Update

Sainte Mesme secure The Tournoi d’Autumne

The closing weeks of the 2019 French season were marked with the Final of The Tournoi d’Autumne at Bagatelle on Sunday 29 September. Six teams competed for the 8 goal tournament with Sainte Mesme and La Concepcion finding themselves in the Final. After a close four chukkas, Sainte Mesme came from behind to take the win 6-5, with two British players, Charlie Tighe and Ned Hine, making up half of the winning team. Salvador Jauretche was named Most Valuable Player, whilst Angela, played by Robert Strom, was awarded the Best Playing Pony honours.

The Tournoi d’Autumne Final Teams: Sainte Mesme (8): Birger Strom (0), Robert Strom (5), Charlie Tighe (2) & Ned Hine (1) La Concepion (8): Hans Spek (-1), Jules Legoubin (2), Salvador Jauretche (3) & Diego Braun (4)

The USPA has released the 2019 annual outdoor handicap changes. The most prominent changes see Gonzalito Pieres raised to 10 goals, with his Argentine rival Francisco Elizalde raised from 8 to 9 goals.

Well known youth player Poroto Cambiaso has been raised from 3 to 4 goals, whilst his high goal rival Carlitos Galindo follows suit.

The majority of handicaps become valid on 1 January 2020, with a number not valid until 1 June 2020. For the full list, please visit the USPA website now.

In mid-October, another case of Equine Flu was reported in Berkshire. The HPA has requested that members remain vigilant on their yards and ensure that all ponies taken to polo for playing or umpiring must have received their last booster vaccination (or second vaccination of a primary course) within the last six months. The HPA will be carrying out inspections.

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News Obituary Peter ‘Ginger’ Baker

Photograph courtesy of Rex Features/BBC

19 August 1939 – 6 October 2019

Ginger in action

English drummer and cofounder of the rock band Cream, Peter ‘Ginger’ Baker, passed away on 6 October aged 80, following a long illness.

Ginger became a household name as the drummer of Cream, alongside Eric Clapton and Jack Bruce, before introducing a whole new audience to world music from his beloved Africa, where he also kindled his long-term love affair with polo.

As a youngster in Lewisham, Ginger seemed destined for a future in the saddle, beginning his riding career astride a bicycle until a careless taxi killed his dreams of the Tour de France. After he swapped the rhythm and fury of the bike track for that of the drums, his talent led him to underpin world famous bands Cream, Blind Faith, Air Force and Hawkwind. His thirst for adventure and the drums took him to Nigeria in the 1970s, where he discovered his other love (after drumming); polo.

In his book Hellraiser, published in 2009, he described how he fell in love with polo at Lagos Polo Club, where he learnt the game from Arthur Douglas-Nugent and Colin Edwards. By 1975, Ginger had returned to the UK, first playing at Rutland Polo Club then proceeding to join the ranks of the Ham Polo Club members, the Club at the time run by Billy Walsh. Always opinionated and never afraid of confrontation, he outwardly opposed “barbarous popular Argentine underfeeding practices” of the time, fell out with everyone,

In South Africa in 2008

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On Pepe at Cowdray Park

In January 1970 after the formation of Airforce

enjoyed a friendly rivalry with other rock legends Bryan Morrison and Kenney Jones, took up the “insanity of hunting” (as he put it) and in an entertaining memory, regularly took the field in jeans and an anorak.

Chukkas at Cowdray He ultimately moved to Cowdray Park, having fallen out with Walsh, and went on to play with the likes of polo legends Alan Kent and Eduardo Moore.

Despite a love for the game, Ginger was plagued by problems both financial and personal, but with some encouragement from Major Ronald Ferguson and HRH Prince Charles, he regained his enthusiasm for the game. Ginger made the move to America in the 1990s, playing out of Salisbury Equestrian Park and ultimately founding the Mile High Polo Club with friends. Following almost a decade in America, he moved to South Africa, where he got involved in polo again, combining music with the sport he loved, but ultimately losing money again. In 2012, he returned to the UK, where he was officially based until his death. He continued to play in small theatres until arthritis made it difficult to play.

He built up a sizable collection of polo ponies, unfortunately losing a small fortune bringing on ponies from Argentina, but never lost his love of the sport. He was a wild man on and off the field, known for his enthusiasm and fervour, who rode until he became ill.

Ginger was married four times and is survived by his three children, Nettie, Leda and Kofi.

Polo Times, November 2019

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News 2020 USA Hall of Fame Awards

The dates for The 2020 German Polo Tour have been released. The tour will begin in Hamberg with The Bucherer Polo Cup between 5 – 7 June. After Hamburg, the tour will continue with tournaments in Düsseldorf, Munich, Frankfurt and will end in Berlin with The Bucherer Polo Cup between 18 – 20 September. For more information, please email sekretariat@poloevents.com

The 2020 inductees into the Museum of Polo’s Hall of Fame have been announced in the USA. On 14 February 2020, Joey Casey, Cyril R. Harrison, Pat Dix and George C. Sherman Sr. will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Furthermore, ponies Wembley, owned by Bob Jornayvaz, and Gargantilla, a mare owned by Devereux Milburn in the 1920s, will also be inducted.

The event will welcome players, friends and families to celebrate these impressive polo individuals and will raise money for the museum. For more information, please contact the Museum of Polo by emailing polomuseum@att.net

Photograph courtesy of Museum of Polo

2020 German Polo Tour

George C. Sherman Sr. is one of the 2020 Hall of Fame inductees

Photography by Peter Meade Photography

HACKETT Army Delhi Tour The HACKETT Army team has been confirmed for the Indian tour during November and December to Delhi. The team will be the highest handicapped team to tour in many years. The team is as follows: The HACKETT Army Team (9): Lt Henry Amor QRH (2), Capt Johnny Sleeman QRH (2), Capt Paddy Selfe (2) & Gaston Devrient (3)

The HACKETT Army Indian Tour team

La Aguada Announce Triple Crown Team

La Aguada announce their 2019 Triple Crown line-up

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Polo Times, November 2019

Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

La Aguada has announced the brand new line-up set to play in the 2019 Argentine Triple Crown – the prestigious tournament series including The Tortugas Open, The Hurlingham Open and The Argentine Open at Palermo. The 32 goal line-up is as follows: Alejandro Novillo Astrada (8), Ignacio Novillo Astrada (9), Alfredo Bigatti (8) & Lucas Dīaz Alberdi (7). Miguel Novillo Astrada, formerly due to play in The Triple Crown, also played in the new Xtreme Polo League, alongside Victorino Ruiz, Alfredo Bigatti and Nachi du Plessis. Turn to page 24 to see other high goal line-ups.

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News

No Deal Brexit & Polo: Government guidelines The below letter was published by the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) on Thursday 3 October, regarding the implications of a No Deal Brexit upon British Polo: “The HPA recently received the attached from the Home Office in the event of a ‘No Deal Brexit’.

As far as polo is concerned in the immediate future the most relevant statement at the moment is in para 3: “The new points-based system will not apply until January 2021.

Between 31 October 2019 and 31 December 2020 (i.e. for next season) law abiding EU citizens and their family members will be able to move to the UK and live, study, work and access benefits as they do now.”

“This link takes you to the new immigration system post 31 December 2020 in the event of a ‘No Deal Brexit’.

“This second link takes you to guidance on the rules for movements of equines into the EU in the event of a ‘No Deal Brexit’.

“The HPA is actively engaged with the Home Office and recently had a meeting in Sheffield with the Border Agency. We hope to be in a position to update members further shortly.

Yours sincerely, David Woodd, Chief Executive”

HPA 2019 Helmet Regulation Updated approved list On Monday 7 October, the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) released an updated list of approved helmets. The list now sees the addition of the Salvavita Polo and Samshield helmets.

In a special note at the bottom of the updated document, the HPA states, “After a business dispute, the manufacture of the original Instinct Mk1 has been taken over by AWB Ltd (trading as Salvavita) at the original Peterborough factory. The owner of the Instinct Polo brand has started manufacturing a helmet (which we call the Instinct Mk2) in 2019 in India. These helmets have rubber grommets rather than the Mk1’s steel grommets and are marked “Made in India”. We have been assured that certification paperwork will be forthcoming from the BSI. The Salvavita helmets do not currently have a QC mark.

“The HPA currently only require helmets to be ‘type approved’, i.e. the manufacturers send helmets to the certification body for testing.

It is the HPA’s intention to require helmets to have a QC Mark from January 2021, to bring our sport in line with other equestrian sports.

A QC Mark is a higher and more expensive standard, which requires factory inspection and audit by the certifying body.

“The original Instinct Mk1 helmet, manufactured in 2017/2018 with the metal grommets and marked ‘Made in England’, is certified to PAS015:2011 and BSI Kitemarked, is of course approved and will continue to be so for its reasonable useful life.”

For the full document, please visit the HPA website.

HPA End of Season Handicapping Note

As a number of clubs failed to submit any handicap recommendations or inform the HPA they had no changes by the end of season deadline, on Thursday 3 October, the HPA released the below statement detailing the consequences: “The End of Season (EOS) handicap changes are now on the HPA website. In spite of the dates being in the Yearbook and Polo Manager’s Handbook which gets sent to each club, and the club being sent several reminders, the following clubs failed to provide the HPA with any recommendations for the EOS meeting. There were also several clubs that were late. If you are a member of one of the clubs below, it means that any improvement may not have been recognised by a change in handicap so please do not be surprised or upset if you get put up suddenly at any stage next season. If your club fails to submit their recommendations at the end of next season all the members of the club will be ‘Not Rated’ (NR). This will mean that a CV form will be required before you can play the following season. It is therefore suggested that you ensure that your club looks after you and your handicap better next season.

Clubs that failed to make recommendations to the HPA: Barfold Beverley Chester Racecourse Dallas Burston Dorset Eastwood Edinburgh Great Trippetts Norfolk Peover RMA Sandhurst RNPA West Wycombe Wicklow David Woodd, Chief Executive”

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Polo Times, November 2019

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FIP News

FIP Update President of the Federation of International Polo, Horacio Areco, gives us an update on the latest FIP news from around the world

The 103rd Ambassadors Cup

AAP Releases Youth Schedule

The Brazilian Ambassador’s Cup is the largest across the world

Between Thursday 26 to Sunday 29 September, The 103rd Ambassadors Cup took place in Brazil at the beautiful Helvetia Polo Club. 16 teams, with the participation of 15 FIP Ambassadors, enjoyed a welcome cocktail at Helvetia’s Clubhouse, and Mara and Vico Couthinho threw a great party afterwards. On Friday night, Carlos Mansur

welcomed everyone for a dinner at his house and the farewell party took place at the Helvetia Polo Club facilities. The Brazilian Ambassador Cup has become a classic among FIP Ambassadors and friends, being the Ambassador Cup in the series that presents the largest number of participants.

The Xtreme Polo League

On Sunday 6 October the Finals of The Xtreme Polo League were played at the Argentine Polo Association fields in Pilar. Ellerstina, with two Pieres brothers and two Castagnola brothers, won after defeating Las Monjitas. La Aguada beat Abu Dhabi in overtime to secure the third position. The event was broadcasted via BRLive in the USA, Pololine livestream rest of the world, TNT Sports Latinamerica in

The Asociación Argentina de Polo (AAP) has released the schedule of childrens’ tournaments for the 2019 spring season.

All these tournaments now include the option of having players enter individually if they do not have a team, to enable more children to participate. This way, children that would otherwise not play for not having a team can now participate. Tournaments will now have two categories – one for teams and one for children entered individually. The categories, by age, are Mini-Mini born – 2011 or afterwards, Mini – born 2009–2010, Menores – born 2008–2007 and Mayores, born 2005–2006. The tournaments and dates are the following: Martindale on 1 November, AAP Tournament on 18 November, Tolo Polo on 13 December and Potrillos on 16 December.

For further assistance or information, you can contact Javier Uranga (+ 5491150206909 – urangajavi@hotmail.com) or Miguel Vigano (+5491164036954 – miguel@estanciaelcerro.com)

Argentina, DirectTv rest of America, CDF.Cl in Chile and Esporte Interativo in Brazil, therefore being the largest broadcast of live polo in the history of the sport. Feedback from spectators and the polo players was very good and we look forward to next year when the league will take place across the world, in the Unites States, Europe and the final stage once more in Argentina. Please turn to the Report pages to read more.

Photography courtesy of FIP

The Xtreme Polo League winners, Ellerstina

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Polo Times, November 2019

The Xtreme Polo League runners-up, Las Monjitas

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Comment

Your Views

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

Dear Editor, I read the October article ‘The Ethics of Cloning Horses in Polo’ with interest and a sense that some of the arguments ran ideas together that should rightly be kept separate. Here are some examples. Haley Cohen is quoted as saying that ‘there are no restrictions on which breeds polo players can use to compete, and so clones are just as kosher as Thoroughbreds or Criollos,’ yet breeds and clones aren’t equivalent. We can say ‘no Criollos are a clone’ but not ‘no Criollos are a breed’ so the terms must describe different things. The term ‘clone’ refers to the result of a particular kind of reproductive manipulation by human beings with a distinctive history, science, surrounding culture and potentially different moral standing.

Adolfo Cambiaso believes that cloning is justified if it increases well-being but seems to take only the well-being of polo players who are in favour of cloning into consideration. Alan Meeker, an associate of Cambiaso, compares polo ponies to race cars but I can see only superficial similarities. Race cars don’t get lonely or excited. Cambiaso continues to argue in favour of cloning by saying ‘I don’t see it’s wrong – because everybody’s able to do it.’ They aren’t, owing to the prohibitive cost, but everybody being able to do something doesn’t seem a good indication of what is right. We are all able to set things on fire.

On the other hand, the anti-cloning lobby seems correct in pointing out a difference between earning an advantage from good horsemanship and earning an advantage through technological one-upmanship. I particularly enjoy watching the patient and skilful horsemanship exercised at my local Club. When Cambiaso says ‘I don’t debate very much…I do what I feel like I need to do’ he takes himself out of the debate prematurely. The issue of cloning, brought to our attention most recently by Lopez Frias and Torres, is not a matter of science fiction as suggested but a matter of scientific fact deserving of our careful and critical moral consideration.

Jon Phelan Suffolk Polo Club.

We’re trying to keep them warmed up till the rain stops...

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Quick Question Q: In what year was the first Tortugas Open tournament played, and for a bonus point, how many years has La Dolfina won consecutively?

A: Turn to page 70 to check your answer.

POLO IMMIGRATION SPECIALISTS 01798 343693 WWW.POLOPERMITS.CO.UK Authorised by the OISC Ref No F201400827

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Polo Times, November 2019

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WINTER ARENA SEASON 2019/20 NOVEMBER 2nd - 3rd 10th - 11th 16th - 17th 19th - 1st Dec

Club Chukkas The Richmond Trophy Arena Challenge Trophy HPA National Club Championships

4-6 7 - 10

Ladies Nations Cup

Supported by The Hurlingham Polo Association

Sun 19th 1 -3 / 10-12

Supported by The Hurlingham Polo Association

20th - 23rd

JANUARY Fri 3rd - 19th HPA New Year National Club Championships 4-6 / 13-15

4-8

DECEMBER Sun 1st Finals HPA National Club Championships 1-3 / 10-12 3rd - 8th The Paul Castle High Goal Challenge 12 - 15 11th - 15th The Chairman’s Trophy 4-6 21st Chairman’s Christmas Drinks - Clubhouse

Finals HPA New Year National Club Championships 4-6 / 13-15 22nd - 25th Minuty Ladies Cup 1-3 28th Jan - 2nd Winter VL Tournament 5-8 FEBRUARY 2nd 11th - 16th 11th - 29th 22nd 24th - 29th Sat 29th

MARCH Sun 1st Sat 7th

Final Winter VL Tournament 5-8 The Olin Trophy 7 - 10 The Arena Gold Cup 13 -15 Draw for Ladies Britsh Open - Clubhouse Ladies British Open Tournament 4-6 Final - Arena Silver Cup 13 - 15 Final - Ladies British Open 4-6 Final - Arena Gold Cup 13 - 15 Ladies British Open Subsidiary Final 4 - 6 The Bryan Morrison International Trophy Open

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Feature

Polo Holidays

Polo Holidays If the end of summer blues are already setting in, and the idea of British Summer Time which officially ended last month is making you yearn for some sunshine and polo, then we have just the tonic.

Polo Times has put together sun-kissed, polo crazy destinations, perfect for an autumn/winter break

Thai Polo & Equestrian Club

Polo Valley

At Polo Valley, Sotogrande, we focus on spreading our passion for the game of polo. From beginners to professionals, the Polo Valley team aim to tailor your polo experiences and make polo more accessible through our polo holidays, polo courses and unique experiences. Polo is one of the most exhilarating and addictive sports in the world. If you have the polo bug, Polo Valley in Sotogrande, is the place where you can practice, improve and have fun.

At Polo Valley we give our clients the ultimate polo experience when it comes to the service and professionalism they receive both on and off the polo field.

Whether it’s creating your perfect polo holiday, corporate weekend or family polo experience – Polo Valley are here to help.

Enquire today and begin your polo experience next season. www.polovalley.co.uk

Thai Polo & Equestrian Club, set in 250 hectares of stunning grounds with the beautiful rolling hills of Thai countryside as a backdrop, is pure polo heaven. Located only one hour from Bangkok and just twenty minutes from the happening Pattaya, this polo Mecca really does exceed every expectation.

The Club has stabling for over 250 horses, with 80 of these specially selected from Argentina, Australia and England and available to hire for any ability in any level of tournament on offer. Thai Polo can proudly boast that the Club is able to mount any standard of player including beginners and 7 goal pros alike, with ease.

Three spectacular irrigated grounds and a stick and ball field that would rival the out-field of Lords, are tended to by a dedicated team of groundsmen.

From the intensive training on offer with legendary trainer, Rege Ludwig to the unsurpassable hospitality, Thai Polo & Equestrian Club is, and remains, a unique and unrivalled polo experience; a worthy inclusion to any polo destination bucket list. www.thai-polo-club.com

Apes Hill Polo Club

Mixing the gentle pace of the Caribbean with plenty of other sports activities, Apes Hill Club has become a hub for sports enthusiasts worldwide. The Waterhall Polo Ground is the perfect place to indulge one’s love of polo; sharpening up with their resident coach, joining in chukkas or enjoying the international matches, all set off by incredible views and flawless sunshine. Not just polo, Apes Hill Club is the first Country Club in Barbados and boasts a wide variety of fully equipped sporting facilities for golf enthusiasts, tennis fans, deep-sea adventurers and avid race goers. If all that sporting activity sounds a little too much like hard work, then head to the Clubhouse, where rare views of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea provide the perfect backdrop to that well-deserved cocktail. www.apeshillpolo.com

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Polo Times, November 2019

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Feature

Polo Holidays

Estancia El Rocío – Nico and Mandy Fontanarrosa are

no strangers to welcoming polo enthusiasts to Argentina. This is the quintessential polo holiday experience which is hard to beat. In glorious surroundings, Estancia El Rocío offers great polo, on select ponies with superb hospitality. Lessons, stick and ball, chukkas, tournaments,

sunshine and asados – beautiful both inside and out, El Rocío is your perfect polo sanctuary. And, as the headquarters of Doc Polo Breeding, we have a very broad choice of ponies for purchase and will facilitate their shipment anywhere in the world. For more information, please email amanda@estanciaelrocio.com and visit www.estanciaelrocio.com

La Mariposa

Located in 25 de Mayo, La Mariposa is one of the oldest polo schools in Argentina, established in 1986. From the moment you arrive in Argentina, La Mariposa look after you to ensure you have a memorable stay.

The set-up has 120 polo horses available to suit all abilities, three boarded polo fields, and private rooms with en-suite bathrooms within walking distance from the polo fields. Full board accommodation with all drinks inclusive.

In the morning you will have two hours of polo lessons every day and La Mariposa will work in all aspects of the swing, the shots and riding for polo. Plus, you will have free time for stick and ball to practice what you have learnt. At La Mariposa, their lessons cater for all different levels – from true beginners to experienced polo players.

After a morning full of exercise, be prepared for special homemade food cooked by our staff. In the afternoons, usually four chukkas are played every day, but don’t be surprised that if you can manage it, you will be able to play six or eight chukkas.

La Mariposa – a very good option for your polo in Argentina. www.lamariposapolo.com.ar

20

Polo Times, November 2019

Far and Ride

The ‘Andes Grand Traverse’ is an epic thirteen night trail taking you from the endless pampas and mountains of Argentine Patagonia into the Chilean Lake District. 11 days in the saddle bring serious adventure as you traverse glacial rivers and trek through ancient forests. The gauchos of Argentina will lead you from Bariloche to Lago Puelo where you will cross by boat to meet your Chilean guides (huasos). With excellent riding, sensational scenery and a real taste of local life, this is considered one of the most iconic riding holidays around and one for the bucket list! www.farandride.com

www.polotimes.co.uk

E S TA N C I A E L R O C Í O A R G E N T I NA Estancia el Rocío looks forward to welcoming you with open arms, a string of ponies and a full!size polo ground ! all wrapped up in the pampas.

BREAKFAST STICK & BALL LUNCH SIESTA SWIM AFTERNOON TEA CHUKKAS DRINKS & CANAPÉS DINNER

We’re only 45 minutes from the international airport of Buenos Aires. British

SLEEP REPEAT

Airways flies there direct every day from London Heathrow to arrive just in time for the dawn chorus. www.estanciaelrocio.com

+44 7885 534129

amanda@estanciaelrocio.com

Feature

Polo Holidays

La Quinta

La Quinta, set amidst 100 acres of beautiful pampas found in the heart of Pilar, is the winter base for several of the UK’s leading players and winter home to two members of the England International squad, Luke and Mark Tomlinson. Their Club in Argentina has been a long established and well-respected location for high goal tournaments and as a base for both visiting and local players, with four full sized grounds, one stick and ball ground, stables and an exercise track. Mark Tomlinson, Owner of La Quinta explains, “The atmosphere at La Quinta is not something that you buy or bottle – if we could we’d

make millions. There’s a really supportive and excited feel in the place.” La Quinta, is Argentine Polo at its best. www.laquintapoloclub.com.ar

La Aguada Polo Club

Only 70 km away from Buenos Aires, lays La Aguada Polo Club, the ideal destination for polo lovers.

On 400 hectares of rolling countryside, surrounded by horses you will enjoy the best facilities to play and train that the sport has to offer, staying at the Novillo Astrada family house whilst enjoying our redesigned countryside style cuisine and nature.

Its infrastructure meets the expectations of the best polo players in the world. It’s here where La Aguada Polo Team and the Novillo Astrada family trains their horses, play the game and receive their friends. www.laaguadapolo.com Enquiries to: thomas@laaguadapolo.com

Locations – 25 de Mayo & Pilar

Locations – Atlanta

Locations – Berkshire

Polo Holidays Polo School & Clinics Tournaments Lodge Golf, fishing Corporate Days Horse Sale +54 911 5180 1759

Polo School & Clinics Pony Hire Livery Tournaments Polo Management Corporate Days Horse Sale +1 770 330 1459

Pony Hire Livery Tournaments Polo Management Corporate Days Horse Sale +44 7947 725 305

marianodarritchon@gmail.com

22

Polo Times, November 2019

WhatsApp

+447947 725305

Polo School & Clinics

www.lamariposapolo.com.ar

www.polotimes.co.uk

Horse Riding Holidays Worldwide info@farandride.com

01462 701110

Feature

Argentine High Goal Round-Up

Argentine

High Goal Guide The low down on all things high goal in the polo capital of the world

Katie Perez reports

I

Photography by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

year stretched across the world both as allies and as opposition. While The Tortugas Open runs with the eight highest handicapped teams in the world, The Classification Tournament is taking place to decide the final two teams who will take on the champions in The Argentine Open. Even more competitive, there is more at stake and careers can be won or lost.

The original eight teams will then take to The Hurlingham Open, the second most important tournament of the season and the one that usually brings about the surprises.

Fiercely fought, last year saw Ellerstina take

the win by one goal. Then it’s on to the main event, the highlight of the season and the reason people travel from around the world to Argentina in the blazing December heat – The Argentine Open is the sum of all Argentine players’ training and is a true feast for the senses. Over the month, the 10 teams battle for their place in the Final which is watched by thousands of polo fans all over the world. Despite a surprise finalist in Las Monjitas last year, La Dolfina remain unbeaten for the past six years – can anyone topple them this year?

The Tortugas Open

The Hurlingham Open

The Argentine Open

The first tournament in The Triple Crown extravaganza. The Final was cancelled due to poor ground conditions. A new date is yet to be confirmed, with 15 November proposed.

The second tournament in The Triple Crown at the home to Argentine polo, the Hurlingham Club, this tournament sets the stage for the final instalment, whilst being a thrilling tournament in its own right.

The pinnacle of the Argentine season, all roads lead to the long awaited Final of The 126th Argentine Open Championship, with the best players in the world battling for the coveted title of Champion.

Teams: Eight When? 8 October – Delayed due to rain Where? The Tortugas Country Club

24

Polo Times, November 2019

Photography by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

t’s spring time in Argentina and the action is beginning to heat up as the first tournament of the prestigious Argentine Triple Crown gets underway as well as the Classification Tournament which runs simultaneously. The high goal players have collected in the polo hubs of Pilar and Cañuelas, two small, unassuming towns an hour’s drive outside of the buzzing capital of Buenos Aires that go from zero to hero in the first few weeks of September.

Fields stretched as far as the eye can see, unbelievable quantities of polo ponies and high goal players left, right and centre makes for one of the best (and certainly highest level) polo seasons in the world.

The season is made up of three 40 goal tournaments and it gets underway with The Tortugas Open. After a format change last year, The Tortugas Open sees eight teams compete, having qualified directly after their performances in last year’s Triple Crown.

Taking place at Tortugas Country Club it is the first time these teams have faced each other since last December, having spent the

Palermo vista

Teams: Eight When? 25 October – 9 November Where? The Hurlingham Country Club

Teams: 10 When? 16 November – 14 December Where? Palermo

www.polotimes.co.uk

Feature

Argentine High Goal Round-Up

CRÍA YATAY:

For the third year running Nacho Figueras’ Cría Yatay team enter the fray with the same line-up. Although they struggled in past years to live up to the potential of the sum of their parts, they are still a solid team. Four talented players, they work the field well together and are entertaining to watch. The Laprida brothers make for an excellent complement of attacking and defence, and Pittaluga’s powerful middle field plays push their attacks onwards utilising Zubiaurre’s quick play up front.

1 Valerio Zubiaurre Jr

8

ELLERSTINA:

Ellerstina are the complete package. In another era they would be undisputed champions of the Argentine season, but in the La Dolfina dominated years they have been unable to make their mark on the Triple Crown. Nonetheless they are a fantastic team to watch with strong backs Gonzalito and Nico providing the defence needed, while Polito and Facundo make magic happen up front. Every year they put up a tireless fight and when on form are unstoppable, although a few bad games last year saw them miss out on The Argentine Open Final for the first time since 2013.

1 Facundo Pieres

10

2 Christian ‘Magoo’ Laprida 8

2 Pablo ‘Polito’ Pieres

10

3 Joaquin Pittaluga

8

3 Gonzalito Pieres

4 Ignacio ‘Iñaki’ Laprida

8

4 Nicolás Pieres

32

9 10

39

One To Watch: Valerio Zubiaurre Jr Earning his handicap rise last year, Valerio Zubiaurre has had a brilliant year and comes to this season on top form. Watch for him to quietly steal the show at the front while the eye is caught by Pittaluga’s huge hits or Magoo’s incredible ball skills, Valerio will always be in exactly the right spot to help out his teammates and complete plays.

One To Watch: Pablo ‘Polito’ Pieres A magician with the ball Polito Pieres is the cousin of the three brothers. Since his inclusion in the team in 2015, the dynamic of the team has shifted as he runs a forward attacking game. Watch for stunning goals, air shots and powerful attacking plays

LA AGUADA:

LA ALBERTINA:

A strong team with talented players, La Aguada got a little lost in the noise last year and failed to live up to expectations. This year they have brought on the young gun Lucas Diaz Alberdi, who joins Alfredo Bigatti as the two feisty players. Accompanied by the experienced and cool headed Novillo Astrada brothers, this is a solid line-up and may now have the flair needed to make the splash that they deserve to make in the season.

This year La Albertina Abu Dhabi have brought on the magic of Agustín ‘Tincho’ Merlos after a lacklustre year in 2018 saw them underperform. Hopefully with the addition of this speedy, agile number one, the team in purple will live up to expectations.

Toccalino and Capella are both hugely strong backs and Elizalde had an incredible season last year, improving with each game and gaining confidence as well as a new handicap.

1 Alejandro Novillo Astrada

8

1 Agustín ‘Tincho’ Merlos

8

2 Alfredo Bigatti

8

2 Francisco Elizalde

8

3 Lucas Díaz Alberdi

7

3 Ignacio Toccalino

8

4 Ignacio Novillo Astrada

9

4 Alfredo Capella Barabucci

8

32 One To Watch: Lucas Díaz Alberdi It is always great to watch players in their Triple Crown debuts and Díaz Alberdi shouldn’t disappoint after a stellar US season. He has risen quickly through the handicap ranks and despite his tender years is a punchy, talented player who could really light the fire in this team and give them the edge they have been looking for, for the past few years.

www.polotimes.co.uk

32 One To Watch: Agustín ‘Tincho’ Merlos It is always interesting to watch the new addition, not only for the change in the team dynamic, but also to see how they fit in. Tincho remains the record holder for the most amount of goals scored in a single Palermo game and we hope to see him channel this wizardry this year. We know him capable of Oscar worthy plays and dramatic comebacks so watch this space for some trickery.

Polo Times, November 2019

25

Feature

Argentine High Goal Round-Up

LA DOLFINA:

It seemed last year that there might finally have been a new team to rival the powerhouse that is La Dolfina, with Las Monjitas fighting for The Argentine Open title, but once again they proved undefeatable. Faultless team play, speed and unbelievable accuracy, not to mention the years and years of experience playing together will see La Dolfina look to bag their 13th Argentine Open this year, making it seven in a row, a feat only realistic to a team like this.

LA DOLFINA POLO RANCH:

It will be interesting to see how this team gets on with the addition of young Britos, who could be just the spark they need to help them out of the lower echelons of this tournament, where they have resided since their inception a few years back. Cavanagh is a strong, sensible player who could compliment well the feisty style of Britos and with Taranco and Terrera as solid supports this team is certainly in with a shot of rattling a few cages even if it’s not those of the top three contenders.

1 Adolfo Cambiaso

10

1 Guillermo Terrera

8

2 David ‘Pelón’ Stirling

10

2 Diego Cavanagh

8

3 Pablo Mac Donough

10

3 Alejo Taranco

8

4 Juan Martín Nero

10

4 Juan Britos

8

40

32

One To Watch: Adolfo Cambiaso Even after a career spanning decades, it is impossible not to be mesmerised by the magic of Cambiaso. His play is faultless and he seems to always be at least three steps ahead of every play. Lightening quick and hugely powerful, there is just no beating this incredible player, especially not on his home turf.

One To Watch: Diego Cavanagh Cavanagh is a clever player and is very rarely found out of place or left behind the game. He is quick to read the play and responds with certainty. He has a particular style of intricate play which is interesting to watch and achieves results if given space to play. He will rely on his teammates to allow him the time to work with the ball.

LA ENSENADA:

LAS MONJITAS:

This team took the season by storm last year after their amazing win in The Classification Tournament. A new fan favourite was born as the four youngsters fought their way to wins against some far more experienced and well-known teams. This year the talented Juan Britos has headed over to La Dolfina Polo Ranch, but Juan Gris Zavaleta will be stepping into his shoes and bringing with him years of experience at the top level. This could help to control the fiery team and help them fulfil their indisputable potential.

1 Juan Gris Zavaleta

8

2 Facundo Fernandez Llorente 7 3 Juan Martín Zubia

8

4 Jeronimo Del Carril

7

30 One To Watch: Jeronimo Del Carril A young player who plays far beyond his years with intelligence as well as force, Jero is a great player to watch. He is fun on the field and has the passion and devil may care attitude of his age, but the skills and wisdom to make him a serious contender to any player that he comes up against.

26

Polo Times, November 2019

Last year Las Monjitas played a blinder giving the top two teams a real run for their money. After a slight reshuffling mid-season in 2018, they return this year with the same line-up and will surely only get better as they are no longer a new team. The perfect mix of punchy attacking players in Sola and Ulloa up front and the solid Caset and Toccalino behind, if they play as we all know they can they will certainly be the team to watch this season.

1 Hilario Ulloa

10

2 Facundo Sola

9

3 Guillermo ‘Sapo’ Caset 4 Santiago Toccalino

10 9

38 One To Watch: Santiago Toccalino Santi Toccalino was brought in mid-season last year and his inclusion changed the whole team. He is a huge hitter with a powerful and relentless backhand that can turn the game in one hit. Watch him for impenetrable defence, always being exactly where needed and some huge angled backhands.

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The festive season is upon us, so we’ve taken the time to select the perfect gifts, both polo and non-polo for your family and friends this Christmas. So, sit back, relax and start feeling festive!

Stow Ridge Red First Class Tech Case £375 www.stowlondon.co.uk Robinson Pelham Identity Bracelet £7,940 www.robinsonpelham.com

Emily Mortimer Aqua White Topaz Earrings £495 www.emilymortimer.co.uk Bronte by Moon Harlequin Throw £79.95 www.houseofbruar.com

Beulah Amma Embroidered Velvet Kimono £650 www.beulahlondon.com

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Polo Times, November 2019

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RJ Polo Nibbles Bowl £35 www.rjpolo.com

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Polo Times, November 2019

House of Bruar Luxury Highland Hamper £99.95 www.houseofbruar.com

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Polo Times, November 2019

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33

T

Xtreme Polo League

he inaugural Xtreme Polo League (XPL) – the world’s first professional and international polo league, came to an end on Sunday 5 October with a win for Ellerstina against Las Monjitas. The concept of the League introduces franchises, global expansion, greater competitiveness and interaction with the public in polo, areas which the traditional sport can often struggle with.

The idea is that the XPL will use a franchise system similar to that of other successful sports such as Formula 1, NFLA and NBA. The 2020 circuit has been confirmed in the USA (April), UK (July) and France or Spain (August/September), and each player must play two events, one abroad and the Final in Argentina, each team will play a total of five events per year (four abroad and one in Argentina).

This first edition saw eight teams compete in two groups over four days of play at the Argentine Polo Association’s Alfredo Lalor Headquarters in Pilar, with each match consisting of six chukkas of 6½ minute duration. In order to qualify for the League each team had to have a handicap between 28 to 34 goals, with a maximum of two 10 goal players per team; interestingly the handicaps used were the highest handicap each player held in Argentina, USA or UK. A minimum handicap of 4 goals per player was set, with the aim to create a more competitive game. The XPL also made modifications to the usual polo rules in order to achieve more attractive, dynamic and intense games.

Argentine polo aficionados flocked to watch the finalists compete and they weren’t disappointed with a day of fast-paced action and compelling team work. The day began with La Aguada and La Albertina Abu Dhabi battling for third place, after six close chukkas the match was pushed into overtime. Both teams fought to gain possession from the throw-in, but in the end it was La Aguada who triumphed and scored their golden goal to claim victory in the first ever XPL Subsidiary Final.

As the clock hands hit three o’clock, Las Monjitas and Ellerstina lined-up for the inaugural XPL Final. With four 10 goal players, plus the young and up and coming Castagnola brothers the supporters were in for a treat. Ellerstina’s indominatable Facundo Pieres led from the beginning and was able to dictate the play, especially with the seamless Castagnola brothers in offence – all ably abetted by Polito Pieres thwacking the ball upfield in unbelievable distances.

Although Las Monjitas were focused and strong throughout the match, the Ellerstina combination proved too strong and by the end of the sixth chukka they had managed to gain and maintain the lead to finish the match 15-12 as the whistle rang out.

Next stop Palm Beach!

34

Polo Times, November 2019

Photography courtesy of XPL Polo

Reports

Ellerstina, winners of the inaugural Xtreme Polo League

Victory for Ellerstina Cash prizes galore at inaugural XPL

www.polotimes.co.uk

Xtreme Polo League Xtreme Polo League Final Teams: Ellerstina (32) Camilo Castagnola (6) Gonzalo Pieres (9) Bartolomé Castagnola (7) Facundo Pieres (10) Las Monjitas (33) Facundo Sola (9) Hilario Ulloa (10) Guillermo Caset (9) Tomás Panelo (5)

25

SEPT

F

A IN

Reports

L

6

OC

T

Chukka scores: (1-0) 4-2, 8-6, 10-9, 11-10, 14-10, 15-12 to Ellerstina

Gastón Lucero & Guillermo Villanueva with Gonzalo López Vargas as Third Man

Where: Argentine Association of Polo in Pilar, Argentina

MVP

BPP

Bartolomé Castagnola

$

Chalo Loly Pop, played by Bartolomé Castagnola Argentine Breeders Association: Antu Walung Selva, played by Sapo Caset

Prizemoney Winner $200,000: Ellerstina Runner-Up $150,000: Las Monjitas Third Place $100,000: La Aguada Fourth Place $50,000: La Albertina Abu Dhabi

Ellerstina vs. Las Monjitas

www.polotimes.co.uk

Polo Times, November 2019

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Your Club News from Home and Abroad

Club Focus

Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club On 20 September, Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club held an open evening, offering free riding assessment sessions, pony rides, stable tours and riding demos, inviting participants to get the full equine experience.

The Polo Academy followed suit on Saturday 5 October, hosting a free event introducing new potential members to our sport. It was a great opening for the season.

BP Polo Club Cirencester Park Polo Club In an event held at BP Polo Club, BP Polo took on the Royal Salute team. Following a tough match, BP Polo defeated Royal Salute 10-8, with spectators having enjoyed a passion-fuelled game.

The BP Polo Club Event Teams: BP Polo Club (10): Beh Chun Chuan (1), Joevy Beh (3), Chevy Beh (3) & Garvy Beh (3) Royal Salute (10): Alex De Lisle (2), David Ko (0), Malcolm Borwick (6) & Adolfo Suarez (2)

Smiths Polo take home The RJ Polo Associates Trophy

Photography by Tom Reynolds Photography

Photography courtesy of BP Polo Club

The BP Polo Club event teams

On Sunday 22 September, British Polo Gin hosted their End of Season Party at Cirencester Park Polo Club, with live music from Andrew James, Happy Hour and a BBQ. There was an excellent turnout, with everyone keen to celebrate the end of a successful season. Prior to the party, the Finals of The Gouldsmith Bowl and The RJ Polo Associates Trophy took place. Los Chinos took home The Gouldsmith Bowl with a 5-2 win against Trewsbury Farm, whilst The RJ Polo Associates Trophy honours went to Smiths Polo, who secured a 5½-3 against CANI .

The Gouldsmith Bowl Final Teams: Los Chinos (8): Alison Clark (-1), Ed Walker (1), Mikey Henderson (4) & Tom Beim (4) Trewsbury Farm (8): Arabella Morris (0), Oli Fanshawe (0), Matt Evetts (3) & Satnam Dhillon (5) The RJ Polo Associates Trophy Final Teams: Smiths Polo (3): Lisa Smith (-2), George Meade (0), Jonny Coddington (3) & Cristian Chaves (3) CANI (4): Louise Jebson (0), Will Westwood (0), Celio Garcia (0) & Matias Amaya (5)

Los Chinos win The Gouldsmith Bowl

Cowdray Park Polo Club Photography by Mark Beaumont

Ollie Cork receives The Large Cup

Jella Herzer and Mauricio Bolana receive The Best Patron award

The 6 goal Farewell Cup saw Jella Herzer’s Los Schatzies team, lead throughout the Final against Louisa Watt’s Brown Rudnick, which resulted in a 7-5 win for Los Schatzies. The Farewell Cup was presented by Edwina Robinson, a family tradition for over 60 years.

Glenn Sherriff’s pony Red was voted Best Playing Pony of the match.

In Cowdray Park’s final presentations of the season, Club Chairman Roderick Vere Nicoll marked his predecessor Peter Barfoot’s years of Chairmanship, which were cut short by life-threatening injuries

www.polotimes.co.uk

Millennium Plate winner Jack Berner

Special presentation to Peter Barfoot

sustained on the polo field in 2016, with the presentation of a leather gun case. He then awarded the prize for Best Patrons of 2019 to Jella Herzer and her husband Mauricio Bolana. The Millennium Plate for umpiring went to Jack Berner, the Pimm’s trophy for Most Improved Young Player went to Angus Rowan Hamilton and the Large Cup for Pony Welfare to Ollie Cork. Liz Parkin and Sharon Harding were delighted to receive the award for Most Supportive Social Members of 2019, marking the end of a marvelous season for the Club.

Polo Times, November 2019

37

Club Focus

Your Club News from Home and Abroad

The polo community in Wellington, Florida, has gathered together to support the Bahama Relief Fund following the devastation left by Hurricane Dorian in the Abaco Islands and Grand Bahama. Over the past three weeks, Club member Grant Ganzi has raised $25,000 which has been presented to the Bahamas Red Cross. He has expressed his thanks to Club members and supporters for their contributions to this worthy cause.

During September, Club de Polo Ampurdan had a jam-packed calendar of polo and events. The Club first hosted a polo clinic, led by Polo Manager Darío Campos and nine players from across the world. Campos then went on to compete in three tournaments in France. The Club is hosting more polo throughout October.

Photograph courtesy of Bahamas News Agency

Club de Polo Grand Champions Ampurdan Polo Club

$25,000 has been raised in Florida for The Bahamas Red Cross

Guards Polo Club

Garangula Polo Club

Houston Polo Club

Kirtlington Park Polo Club hosted the TVAA Rounders Event in aid of The Thames Valley Air Ambulance on Sunday 29 September, organised by Club member Vanessa Whiteley. Four rounders games were played, with Club members raising £211.83 for the charity. Well done KPPC!

Photograph courtesy of Vanessa Whiteley

Polo Times, November 2019

Tonkawa, the winners of The H. Ben Taub Memorial Tournament

Kirtlington Park Polo Club Photograph courtesy of Garangula Polo Club

38

Photograph courtesy of Houston Polo Club

The 12 goal H. Ben Taub Memorial Tournament Final took place on Wednesday 15 October. In a close game, Tonkawa defeated Eureka/ Team Tejas, 9-8, to take home the title. Tonkawa’s Vaughn Miller Jr. was named Most Valuable Player after his excellent play clearing the way for Team Captain Mason Wroe to take advantage of goal scoring opportunities.

On Sunday 6 October, Garangula faced Ellerston for the Final of the 14 goal Garangula Spring Tournament, with the home team clinching a narrow 9-8 win.

It was a double celebration over the weekend, as guests celebrated the wedding between Alec White and Yasmin Scrivener – congratulations guys!

The 14 goal Garangula Spring Tournament Final Teams: Garangula (14): Guy Schwarzenbach (3), Skye Gilmore (-1), Ollie Cudmore (6) & Paco O’Dwyer (6) Ellerston (14): Jack Grimes (2), David Paradice (0), Jack Kiely (4) & James Harper (8)

Garangula defeated Ellerston 9-8 lift the trophy

Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

Photograph courtesy of Club de Polo Ampurdan

Polo iin Spain in September

The team at Guards Polo Club hosted their World’s Biggest Coffee Morning a day early this year, on Thursday 26 September, but it proved a major success. The Club raised £1,200 for Macmillan Cancer Support, believed to be their highest tally to date. Not only was this a lovely opportunity to catch up over delicious cakes and coffee in the Clubhouse – including a stunning offering from Mosimann’s at Guards very own pastry chef Nick Hebditch – but there was also the opportunity to kick on with some Christmas shopping.

There were plenty of great gift ideas in the Mosimann’s cake for the World’s Biggest Coffee room, as well as the popular, pre-loved book Morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support stall. Pam Manku even recreated the Guards kiosk, selling lots of the Club’s own branded goodies. With the raffle and a couple of other great games with prizes and it had all the ingredients to be a super fun, fundraising morning.

Club members raised £211.83 for the TVAA yesterday

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Club Focus

Your Club News from Home and Abroad

The 28th annual Newport International Polo Series came to an end with a thrilling overtime Battle of the Sexes match. The Newport Women took an early lead, but the Newport Men’s team came back to equalise with just seconds to go. Despite their best efforts to return to the fore, the Newport Men took home the silver trophy with a 10-9 final score.

The Battle of the Sexes Teams: Newport Women: Catie Reed/Mia Purdom, Margaux Buchnan, Amanda Poor & Minnie Keating Newport Men: Roger Souto, Patrick Quigley, Luke Merrick & Sam Clemens

Photograph by John Lincourt Photography

Newport Polo Club

The Newport Men’s team win in overtime at Newport Polo Club

Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly

Thai Polo Club Argentina

In the Final of The Paprec French Open on Sunday 22 September, Spanish team Marqués de Riscal came up against the Swiss Marquard Media. The match was full of intense and strong plays from both sides, but in the inclement weather, it was the Marqués de Riscal side that held the lead throughout. They ultimately took home the title with a 7-6 victory. Santiago Cernadas was named Most Valuable Player, whilst La Mondana, an eight-year-old mare, owned and played by Cernadas was awarded the Best Playing Pony rug.

Later in the autumn, Sainte Mesme’s French season success continued over the weekend of 5 – 6 October, with a 7-5 win over Land Rover at Polo Club du Domaine de Chantilly in the Final of The Championnat de France. Coco Le Pape was named Most Valuable Player and Ned Hine’s mare Snowflake was awarded the Best Playing Pony prize.

The Paprec French Open Final Teams: Marqués de Riscal (16): Alejandro Aznar (0), Pedro Soria (5), Santiago Cernadas (7) & Juan Cruz Gregoli (4) Marquard Media (16): Nacho Kennedy (4), Jota Chavanne (5), Martin Aguerre (7) & Tommy Rinderknecht (0)

Photograph courtesy of R&B Presse

Marqués de Riscal, The Paprec French Open winners

Rutland Polo Club Robert Dale, Chairman of Rutland Polo Club, has announced that Hugh Crouch will be stepping down as Polo Manager at the end of the 2019 season. There is no word yet as to who his replacement will be.

40

Polo Times, November 2019

On Thursday 3 October, the tournament draws for the Thai Polo Cup Argentina and inaugural Pink Polo Cup Argentina took place. The mixed tournament has 16 team entries of up to 14 goals and the Pink Polo Cup has eight teams composed of international women’s polo players.

Both tournaments will begin on Monday 28 October, with the Finals scheduled for Friday 8 November. The full team lists will be released soon.

The Thai Polo Cup Argentina Team Draw: Zone A: Mumbai (Shyam Mehta) Caña Brava (Adrián Poblete) Balanz Capital (Claudio Porcel) Los Druidas (Mathias Regalado) Zone B: Thai Polo (Harald Link) 22BR (Claude Haberer / William Zhao) Puerto Bellini (Fernando Burlando) El Milagro (Federico Tomasevich) Zone C: Power Horse (Walter Scherb) La Trinidad (Alejandro Metro) Mindanao (Jaime Restrepo) Real Time (Ricardo Jara) Zone D: Los Nocheros (Basti Schneberger) Twenty 20 (Philip De Groot) La Ensenada (Ernesto Gutiérrez) Amadeus (Koko Kofler / Robert Kofler) Pink Polo Cup Argentina Team Draw: Zone A: Why Not (Hana Grill) Tremenda (Stephanie Haverhals) Nipas (Anita Van der Hoeven) Thai Polo Pololine TV (Milly Hine) Zone B: Polo4Pro (Mila Fernández Araujo) Katarzyna Polo Team (Maru Giménez) Marengo (Sonia Couling) Legión Extranjero (Azucena Uranga) www.polotimes.co.uk

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Club Focus

Your Club News from Home and Abroad

The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club

White Waltham Polo Club

Photograph by Funzen Pun

Hedonism Wines win The Lambourne Trophy

In the Final of The Lambourne Trophy at The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club on Saturday 21 September, Hedonism Wines defeated their opponents, Phoenix, to take home the trophy.

Waimai Polo Club, on New Zealand’s North Island, are hosting an Arabian Nights Ball on 23 November – with the option of fancy dress or smart dress, we can’t wait to see the post-party pictures!

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Polo Times, November 2019

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Photography courtesy of White Waltham Polo Club

Waimai Polo Club

Young’s Farm Tournament winners, Young’s Farm

On Saturday 21 September, White Waltham Polo Club saw London University defeat JP Morgan in a closely fought match. The following day, Sunday 22 September, Young’s Farm won the 2 goal Young’s Farm Polo Tournament by only half a goal, 5-4½.

The match was followed by a BBQ. The 2 goal London University and JP Morgan teams Telemark Tournament, the last weekend of polo at White Waltham Polo Club, was this year won by the Telemark team (Tele Kyriacou, Nicola Bonito-Olivia, Hilali Noordeen & Carlitos Gonzalez). On Sunday 29 September, the 12 annual awards were handed out to worthy members, including the Most Outstanding Lady Player, which went to Georgina Brittain. Dominic Cunningham received The Most Outstanding Gentleman Player award, whilst Bilal Shaykh’s Cedar Polo team received The Most Successful Team of 2019 award.

Finally, The Most Improved Player honours were awarded to Anthony Kitchen. It was a fun evening for all and a great way to mark the end of the season.

International & Home

5 minutes with…

What’s your favourite tournament/Club?

Cirencester Park of course, to play on Ivy Lodge is always an honour it’s the most beautiful setting in polo.

Alison Clark

Mixed handicap: -1 (I don’t play arena or ladies) How did your polo career start? I went on a two week holiday over Christmas and New Year to a polo school called El Venado in Argentina and fell in love with polo. I came home, bought a horse immediately and went back to Argentina again in March, crazy!

What’s your greatest achievement to date? Not sure, but it was great to win The Gouldsmith’s Bowl end of season 8 goal again this year at Cirencester Park

Women’s Polo

Polo Club (CPPC), making that three times in a row. It’s always good to win on the last day of the season. Also, great this year to win The CPPC 4 goal series sponsored by RJ Polo.

What’s your greatest ambition? In polo?

Just to keep playing and having fun without getting injured.

Which players do you admire? Facundo Pieres, he is my idol.

Are there any changes you would like to see in polo as a sport? I’d like my old friends and teammates Justo Mourino and Tommy Iriarte from Argentina to be allowed back.

If you could pick a fantasy team, who would be on it and why? Zac Beim is always in the team (sadly he missed all of 2019 through injury) and obviously Facu.

“I couldn’t have done it without. . .”?

My wonderful horses and of course Tom Beim, and everyone at the yard.

Women’s Arena Polo Series

NZ Women’s Handicaps

The Women’s Arena Polo Series have announced their 2019/2020 Fixture List which begins with The Ladies Nations Cup on 20 – 23 November (6 goal) at RCBPC. The rest of the fixtures are listed below: Ladies Nations Cup: 20 – 23 November (6 goal) The Hickstead Ladies Victrix Ludorum: 30 November – 1 December (4 goal) The Ash Farm Arena Polo Victrix Ludorum: 7 – 8 December (4 goal) The Black Bears Ladies Victrix Ludorum: 14 – 15 December (4 goal) The Minuty RCBPC Ladies Victrix Ludorum: 22 – 25 January (4 goal) The Ladies British Open: 24 – 29 February (6 goal)

The New Zealand Polo Association have released their new women’s handicaps list, which sees Nina Clarkin and Hazel Jackson-Gaona at the top of the list on 10 goals. The full list is on their website.

Chicks with Sticks Between 19 – 20 September, ‘Chicks with Sticks’, a women’s arena 0-4 goal round robin tournament, took place at the Benton County Fairgrounds, Arkansas. NWA Polo Club took the overall win with 24 goals scored throughout the tournament, OKC Polo Club’s Mas Fina came second with 19 goals and Texas Tech Polo were third with seven goals. Alison Thomas was named Most Valuable Player for the second year in a row, Amelia Fisher was awarded the Sportsmanship Award and Angie Bailey’s Chillin received the Best Playing Pony rug.

Congratulations Lía!

Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

In early October, Lía Salvo, arguably Argentina’s best female player, was awarded an Outstanding Personality in the Field of Sport of the city of Buenos Aires award. The ceremony took place in the Dorado de la Legislatura with polo friends, family and President of the Asociación Argentina de Polo (AAP), Eduardo Novillo Astrada, all in attendance to celebrate Salvo’s achievement. Salvo commented, “My father instilled in me the love for horses. He told me that polo was not for women, but I insisted and little by little, an environment was opened that was only previously for men.”

Lía Salvo has been awarded an Outstanding Personality in the Field of Sport award

Is your women’s polo not featured? Email rosabella@polotimes.co.uk with all your women’s polo news!

Polo Times, November 2019

45

Women’s Polo

International & Home

HPA Handicap Changes Photography by Kelly Wells

The Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) has released the list of End of Season Ladies’ handicap changes. Amongst the notable increases, at the higher end of the list, a number of British players have seen their handicaps raised. Lucy Coddington, Heloise Wilson Smith and Milly Hine have been moved up to 6 goals, whilst Lottie Lamacraft has gone from 6 to 7.

Alice Servaes and Rosanna Turk have also both been moved up, from 4 to 5.

Further down the list, a number of players have been moved up two goals, with CANI patron Louise Jebson moving from 1 to 3 goals and Victrix Ludorum winning patron Alicia Woods moving from 0 to 2 goals.

A total of 113 handicap changes have been released the changes will be subject to ratification and are set to be valid from 1 January 2020.

Gaucha, Maddie Grant’s Best Playing Pony

Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

Lucy Coddington’s handicap has raised to 6 goals

Name

Handicap Changes

Name

Lia Salvo

9 to 8

Claire Brougham

6 to 5

Name

Handicap Changes

Farida Rosso Baldacchino 5 to 4

Katy Peagram

1 to 2

Jayne Rumsey

1 to 2

Emily Price

1 to 2

Christine Blaurock-Thome 3 to 4

Emma Sanderson

3 to 4

Andrea Redder

0 to 1

Lucy Coddington

5 to 6

Jessica Van dee Velden

1 to 2

Sally Richards

0 to 1

Milly Hine

5 to 6

Katie Vickery

3 to 4

Angela Robb

0 to 1

Lottie Lamacroft

6 to 7

Dayna Waether

3 to 4

Rebecca Servaes

1 to 2

Alice Servaes

4 to 5

Alice Walsh

3 to 4

Kayley Smith

1 to 2

Rosanna Turk

4 to 5

Nadia Whitelock

2 to 3

Georgina Spring

1

Heloise Wilson Smith

5 to 6

Jessica Wood

2 to 3

Deborah Stead

1

Mia Novillo Astrada

(6) to 6

Vanessa Whiteley

2 to 3

Fran Townend

0 to 1

Livi Alderman

2 to 3

Neku Atawodi-Edun

(3) to 4

Jemima Walker

1 to 2

Sabrina Bradley

2 to 3

Sophie Burrell

(0) to 2

Lucy Willet

2

Lorna Broughton

3 to 4

Anya Jacobs

(2) to 2

Marcella Wright

0

Amanda (Sam) Buckles

4 to 3

Olivia Uechtritz

3 to 4

Marta Wyrzykowska

2

Holly Butler

3 to 4

Hayley Hyde-Andrews

1 to 2

Lisa Smith

0 to 2 **

Cicely Colthurst

2 to 3

Tatiana Menshenina

1

Alicia Woods

0 to 2 **

Charlotte Elliot

3

Laura Plant

2

Giselle Barfoot

0

Laura Elliot

1 to 2

Annabel Woodhead

1 to 2

Olivia Barlow

1

Ana Escobedo

2 to 3

Samantha Banks

0 to 2 **

Charlotte Giles

0 to 1

Robyn Evans

3 to 4

Ida Barlow

2

Louisa Godwin

1

Lorna Flemming

3 to 4

Georgia Bilderbeck

1

Helen Gredington

0

Tamara Gibbons

2 to 3

Siena Burnett

1 to 2

Sol Green

1

Alice Gipps

3 to 4

Frances Chappelow

1

Hannah Hewins

0

Mhariri Gould

2 to 3

Kitty Clarry

2

Clare Hocking

0 to 1

Charlene Goudkuil

2 to 3

Amelia Figgins

1 to 2

Elicia Murphy

0 to 1

Georgie Gregory

2 to 3

Elli Gilje

0 to 1

Tallulah Murphy

0 to 1

Vicky Griffin

3 to 4

Georgia Harding

0 to 1

Rosie Lawrance

0 to 1

Jennifer Hazell-Smith

1 to 2

Georgie Harwood

2

Annette Storm Linscott

1

Jessica Hinaman

1 to 2

Ruby Hickmet

1 to 2

Beatrice Schofield

0 to 1

Louise Jebson

1 to 3 **

Lisa Ives

0 to 1

Alika-Peach Molloy

0

Fiona Kalies

2 to 3

Sophie Kenna

1 to 2

Kim Preston

0

Kristina Karailieva

1 to 3 **

Cataliina Lavinia

2 to 3

Karen Reeve

0

Karina Kaute-Brown

1 to 2

Amy Leggett

1 to 3 **

Kelly Richards

1

Olivia Lamphee

2 to 3

Samantha Luff

1 to 2

Felicity Townend

0

Saskia Meadows

3 to 4

Grace Marchant

1 to 2

Pippa Vincent

0

Genevieve Meadows

2 to 3

Lucy McLaughlin

3

Olivia Allenvy-Dilley

1

India Ringer

2 to 3

Amy Nizolek

3

Hannah van Biljon

2

Sheena Robertson

3 to 4

Lynne Patmore

1 to 2

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Polo Times, November 2019

Handicap Changes

US Arena Handicap

University of Virginia (UVA) secured themselves a 16-12 win against Sullivan Group on Saturday 5 October in The Women’s Arena Handicap Final.

Sullivan Group began the match with a one goal handicap advantage, which they were keen to capitalise on, however their narrow lead was short-lived as Sullivan Group was shut out of the second chukka with tight defence from UVA, which combined with their goal scoring spree, meant UVA led 6-5 at half-time.

UVA’s attack did not relent in the third chukka and each team member added to the scoreboard, their hard work and open communication paid off with the overall win. Maddie Grant commented afterwards, “As a team, we were communicating a lot and making sure we kept the man behind the play. We were also passing really well and spreading out the field which made it harder to defend.

This was the best possible outcome for our team.” Maddie Grant’s mare Gaucha was named Best Playing Pony.

UVA’s Demitra Hajimihalis

For Women’s polo dates for your diary, turn to our What’s On pages

International & Home

Women’s Polo

Open de France de Polo Féminin

Eight teams competed in The Pacific Coast Circuit Arena Women’s Challenge at Lakeside Polo Club, which ended on 13 October. The teams were divided into two divisions, dependent on handicap. In Flight A, the Orange County team defeated the Home Team to win the title. Orange County’s Heather Perkins was awarded the Most Valuable Player honours, whilst the Best Playing Pony rug went to Shelley Geiler’s mare Golden Girl. In the Flight B division, six teams competed, with California Polo/OC Polo coming out on top. Nicole DeBerg was awarded the Most Valuable Player honours, whilst Blue, a grey gelding owned by Jemma Contreras and played by Kailey Eldredge was named the Best Playing Pony.

The Open de France de Polo Féminin Final Teams: DS Automobile St Maximin (18): Lavinia Fabre (3), Margaux Perruchot (3), Charlotte Garaud (3) & Lía Salvo (9) Hyatt Regency Chantilly (16): Alice Servaes (3), Naomi Schröder (3), Rebecca Walters (6) & Kristy McBride (4)

Photography by Evelina Jakovlevskaja

Lakeside Polo Club

Between 17 – 22 September, Polo Club Domaine De Chantilly hosted their annual Open de France de Polo Féminin. Sunday 22 September saw two Finals, with the mixed Final following after the women’s Final.

After intense competition, it was DS Automobile St Maximin and Hyatt Regency Chantilly who lined-up in the Final. Crowds were treated to a thrilling match, which saw Lía Salvo decide the outcome in the final minutes with the final goal, to take the win 7-5 for DS Automobiles SM. Salvo was later named Most Valuable Player, whilst Profesora played by Alice Servaes, was awarded Best Playing Pony.

Best Playing Pony Professora with Alice Servaes

DS Automobile St Maximin hold aloft the trophy

Photograph by Matias Callejo/ Courtesy of AAP

X Ladies Circuit

Namuncurá La Martina, winners of the X Ladies Circuit Gold Cup

This year, 11 teams of 17-18 goal handicap competed in The X Ladies Circuit. On Thursday 24 October the Finals were played at the AAP’s grounds in Pilar with Finals for both the Gold and Silver Cups.

In the Gold Cup Final, Namuncurá La Martina defeated Rincón Chico Villa a Sesta 8-3, whilst in the Silver Cup Final, La Cañada Aruba managed to secure a narrow 5½-4 win over La Aguada.

X Ladies Circuit Gold Cup Final Teams: Namuncurá La Martina (18): Pauline Schär (1), Catalina Lavinia (1), Milagros Sánchez (7) & Lía Salvo (9) Rincón Chico Villa a Sesta (18): Jeanine Hugo (5), Cuyi Glenny (2), Alexia Laprida (4) & Clara Cassino (7) X Ladies Circuit Silver Cup Final Teams: La Cañada Aruba (17): Bianca Pagano (3), Clara Martínez Ferrario (2), Maitena Marré (4) & Paola Martínez (8) La Aguada (18): Mía Novillo Astrada (6), Mora Aldao (1), Clara Heguy (3) & Candelaria Fernández Araujo (8)

Is your women’s polo not featured? Email rosabella@polotimes.co.uk with all your women’s polo news!

Polo Times, November 2019

47

Youth

All Aspects of Youth Polo

The Junior Argentine Open Photograph by Matias Calléjo

La Natividad win The Junior Argentine Open

The Junior Argentine Open came to an end on Monday 30 September at the AAP in

Pilar, as La Natividad beat La Dolfina 15-8 to claim the title. It was another title under the belts of the powerful Castagnola brothers, Bartolito and Camilo ‘Jeta’, who have swept the board over recent months. Five teams, of up to 23 goals, competed for the title, with all players 21-years-old or younger.

The Final was a strong, open match, with the teams in close competition throughout.

It was the third consecutive year that Bartolito Castagnola has taken home the title, having also won alongside his younger brother in 2018.

Out of the eight players, three have secured

major championships over the past six months: the Castagnola brothers having won The King Power Gold Cup for The British Open as well as The President’s Cup, and La Cañada Open winner Rufino. All the others have recently played high goal across the world.

The Junior Argentine Open Final Teams: La Natividad (23): Camilo Castagnola (6), Rufino Bensadón (5), Bartolomé Castagnola (7) & Felipe Dabas (5) La Dolfina (22): Manuel Sundblad (5), Simón Prado (5), Poroto Cambiaso (4) & Juan Martín Zubīa (8)

SUPA Girls Championships

The SUPA Girls players Photography by Gill Glimmerveen

On Sunday 13 October, crowds of parents and players gathered at Black Bears Polo Club for The SUPA Schools Girls Arena Tournament. Nine teams were divided into three divisions, following the loss of one team overnight due to illness. Following a fast and furious Final, the combined team SUPA Red won the Open Division; St Mary’s A took home the Novice Division honours; whilst Marist Mix were victorious in the Beginners Division. The standard of play from the girls, aged 12 to 17-years-old, was very high and provided an exciting day of polo for all. The full results were as follows: Open Division: 1st – SUPA Red 2nd – Heathfield Diamonds 3rd – Hurst Mix 4th – SUPA Blue

Novice Division: 1st – St. Mary’s A 2nd – Heathfield Rubies Beginners: 1st – Marist Mix 2nd – St. Mary’s B 3rd – Heathfield Sapphires

The Open Division winners, SUPA Red

SUPA Arena Dates Going into the winter, SUPA has released its list of arena dates, with school and university teams ready and raring to get going. The list is as follows: Rugby Polo Club: Uni Challenge – 15 November 2019 Rugby Polo Club: Universities Winter National Championships – 6 February 2020

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Knowledge

Juno Height: 15.2 hh Age: 12-years-old Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Owned and played by: Tamara Fox Tournament: The Englana Wichenford Bowl at Beaufort Polo Club Where is she from/breeding? She’s a homebred, out of Jiggsy and by Chess at Beaufort.

How long have you had her? All her life!

Photograph courtesy of Tamara Fox

What are her strengths? She’s not very smart, so whatever you ask her to do she does! She is an unlikely polo pony, but is strong, determined, can turn at any speed and is rarely beaten in a ride-off. She also gives you everything in every chukka you play her.

How has she gone this season? Very well! She is one of my best and I play her in the third chukka, always. Her favourite level is the 8 and 12 goal, but she has played a bit of 15 goal with Nina [Clarkin – Tamara’s sister] this season.

Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? No. She has a unique beauty and usually gets overlooked for my

handsome grey in the last or any other horse on the field!

What are your plans for her in the future? To stop her doing anything too stupid over the winter and bring her in for next season.

Does she have any special quirks? Many!

She can have a nap whilst I am on her, so I walk her onto the field at half-time and get

on her somewhere near the middle, then if she has a strop it is usually over by the time we hit the boards! At the start of the season she comes straight into the yard, as working her from the field confuses her too much.

She also has a cracking buck on her, actually I sometimes think ‘why am I doing this?’, but then I play her and everything is forgiven.

Describe her in three words. Fast, tough, (ultimately a) plonker!

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“ I am proud to put my name to such a superb saddle. The light weight is a fantastic bonus too.”

Gonzalito Pieres

Polo Times, November 2019

49

Knowledge

Equine Reiki

Valerie Westfield has been in the Cheshire polo scene for almost 20 years and has recently joined the All Ireland Polo Club. She did an equine reiki demonstration at the All Ireland Polo Club last year and one of the players, Leonardo Rossellini, invited her to his Club, Alto Polo Club in Argentina to treat his horses. She has also received an invitation to Abu Dhabi Racing and Polo Club to demonstrate this unique therapy

Equine Reiki

The holistic approach Reiki is a complementary therapy. It is not intended to replace veterinary care and advice. Equines needing veterinary attention should be seen by a qualified vet.

Before a Reiki practitioner can carry out a Reiki treatment on a horse, the owner must first seek approval from their vet.

Equine Reiki is not a substitute for veterinary care but is safe and will compliment any form of complementary or medical treatment. If you feel your horse is in need of medical attention, please contact your local vet.

How Equine Reiki works

Photography courtesy of Valerie Westfield

Valerie treating a horse

The benefits of Equine Reiki

Horse lovers readily agree what is good for a horse is usually also good for the owner.

This is absolutely true when considering the benefits of Reiki for horses. This gentle and non-intrusive therapy traces its modern origins to human patients in Japan. Today it’s growing in popularity as a healing tool that can benefit horses physically, emotionally and mentally.

The nature of Reiki healing

Reiki is an holistic system of energy healing.

Practitioners connect with the healing energy in the universe and channel it through their hands.

The Science

Research at Stanford University has been able to measure the energy flow into the 50

Polo Times, November 2019

body and have verified that Reiki (or Chi) enters through the Crown Chakra (at the top of the head) and exit through the palms.

Scientists have accepted that all matter is fundamentally bundles of energy that materialise and disappear in a seemingly random fashion. Our energy field (aura) can be detected by electromagnet measuring instruments. Energy flows throughout our body along meridians, which were identified in traditional Chinese medicine, thousands of years ago. We also have energy centres in the body called chakras, which were recognised in Ancient India. Given that our bodies are energy, we are surrounded by energy and we can pass energy through our body to other living organisms, surely it makes sense to treat the energy of a living being as well as the physical symptoms.

Energy flows through the body of a horse in good health much like an electric current.

However, a number of factors can interfere with this flow. Among them are physical injuries, trauma, dietary changes, emotional problems, training issues or a combination of these problems. Any blockage of energy can result in physical, psychological or behavioural problems.

Equine Reiki restores positive energy flow into an animal’s body, correcting imbalance.

Horses are particularly sensitive and quickly pick up on the healing a practitioner offers through hands-on or even hands-off means.

Typically, the animal will approach and quickly become a willing participant.

What can Reiki do for my horse?

Reiki can help with: Sweet itch, tendon injuries, ligament injuries, laminitis, colic, loading problems, spooking, emotional issues, anxiety, appetite loss, weaving, wind sucking, cribbing, box walking physical injuries, pre-match nerves, match stress (for horse and rider), performance, separation anxiety and groundwork etc.

Equine Reiki is very hard to explain in many ways – really you have to see a horse having a reiki treatment to understand, as animals don’t lie.

Valerie Westfield 07774 796 508 p555olo@yahoo.co.uk

Valerie playing polo

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Knowledge

GCSE and A Level Revision

GCSE and A Level Revision

The first class guide to success on and off the field from Simply Learning Tuition

After a relaxing half term, students all over the country are now getting back into the swing of things. Christmas is far away and there are several months in the new school year before the exams, so why worry – surely there is plenty of time? Well, not exactly. When you consider that most of your remaining time in school will be spent covering new material, take off a few days for Christmas and then the all-important sporting commitments (riding/playing/ mucking out every weekend and holiday) there really isn’t much more than a full week or two for proper revision. This guide gives you some ideas about how to make the most of this precious time.

daily sessions are really helpful. Try to be creative – perhaps you could have a longer stick and ball session every other day, rather than a shorter daily one, to save time tacking and untacking. Maybe this is the time to get a friend to help you exercise your horse. If there isn’t enough time, something will have to go or be reduced (social media or gaming are the obvious ones). Next, write a list of all the people who could help: parents, siblings, friends, tutors and teachers. Work out who is going to help you with what. Maybe your little brother/sister can do some of your chores, maybe your parents can leave you at home for a few days instead of dragging you off to see the grandparents.

Plan exhaustively

Revise smart

The time to start is right now! Make a list of all the topics you need to look at. Rank them as follows: a) those you need to get help with because you have no clue b) those to work through carefully because you are not quite sure how they work c) those to revise because you understand them but don’t want to forget anything, Also, add plenty of time for attempting past papers under exam conditions.

Next: put in your goals for polo over the next six months (e.g. play once a week, do three tournaments, work with a new horse) and then your social commitments The fun part starts now; working out how on earth you are going to fit all of this in.

Study leave, half-term and weekends in theory afford you the most time, but small 52

Polo Times, November 2019

Just like with polo, to get the results you deserve, you need to put in hard work.

And just like when you win a game, or get your horse to do something really well, fulfilling your academic potential feels great.

However, it can be very frustrating when you study for hours and hours but don’t see very much improvement in marks. This usually happens because you don’t understand the underling material, misunderstand the exam question, or are blinded by ‘fear of failure’.

Knowing how to revise effectively is half the battle. A quick Google search will come up with some great ideas, such as preparing revision shortcuts like index cards (rather than reading long notes over and over again) and making use of trigger words that open up a cascade of relevant points. Always do what you find hardest first, it will make everything that follows feel much easier.

Building confidence is key to success.

Create a ‘Study Habit’

Small is beautiful – you are not committing to full time study – just a couple of hours a day will make a difference. But if you are really far behind, try to put in a couple of full days (four hours work maximum, with 20 minutes of revision last thing at night).

You should get into the habit of working to a timed deadline for both individual questions and complete papers. Stop writing and see where you are when the time runs out. If you regularly find yourself finishing too early, it is likely you are not answering in sufficient detail. Too late, and it is possible you do not know the material as well as you think, or you need more practice writing succinctly and, ‘getting to the point’.

Don’t do last minute revision

Unless it helps to reduce anxiety, there is generally little point in revising the night before. Research shows that information retained in the long-term memory is generally recalled far more effectively than anything stored in the short-term memory.

Past Papers – one of the most important aids to effective revision

Working through past papers is key to exam success. Although revising from your notes is helpful, creating the clear and precise answers that examiners are looking for is quite a different art.

Schools often supply past papers, or they can be downloaded directly from the exam boards such as AQA, EdExcel and OCR. If your school doesn’t give you any, ask them to get some for you. When working from www.polotimes.co.uk

GCSE and A Level Revision

Plan to achieve

Revise smart with a tutor

these papers, make sure that you are using up to date questions and mark schemes.

Ensure you use these to check you have answered each question in sufficient detail.

For example, if it is a three-mark question, then there should be three points in your answer. For some subjects it is difficult to interpret the mark schemes, or you may need to have the answers explained to you. This is quite normal, and you should ask your schoolteacher for some extra help. If this is not forthcoming, a tutor may be able to help.

Practice working under exam conditions

Revision should be done in a quiet space, as similar to exam conditions as you can manage. The more formal the surroundings the more you learn to overcome nerves.

Practising completing a full paper within the allotted time is essential to train your mind to handle the necessary focus and intensity.

Sit practice papers at the same time of day as you will sit them in school. You react and think differently throughout the day, so it helps to have practiced under exam conditions at the same time as your scheduled assessments.

How to reduce exam anxiety

Anxiety is a serious problem. In a recent Childline survey, more than 90 percent of students taking GCSE exams and A Level exams admitted to suffering from acute anxiety around exams.

To some degree, you can reduce anxiety through exercise and relaxation – which is why it is important to include polo in your revision schedule. Concentrating on

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Knowledge

Reduce exam anxiety

something else will relax your mind and help information embed into your long-term memory, where it needs to be. Meditation and deep breathing are other useful techniques in overcoming anxiety, along with eating and sleeping properly. However, if you have underlying emotional or academic issues, these feelings could become overwhelming. In these cases, speak to your parents and teachers and if they are not able to understand, then a good place to seek help is MIND (www.mind.org.uk). You should also ensure that all of your teachers have made provision for any learning difficulties that you may have, such as dyslexia. Extra time, a scribe and other supports are available and these can be discussed with your school SENCO.

Do your best

Parental help

Simply Learning Tuition 43 Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London, W1J 5FJ +44 (0)207 350 1981 simplylearningtuition.co.uk

Not all students welcome parental involvement. But parents can be massively useful by, for example, testing your recall of notes that will help develop your memory.

Just reading work through a question together can often help solve a mental block.

When your parents repeatedly tell you how important the exams are, they often sound like a broken record. They are only trying to be helpful and unfortunately, they are also absolutely correct. GCSEs are the stepping-stone to A Levels and are also the main part of the university application process. A one or two point difference will be life changing, at least in the short-term.

Just as with sport, you can do no more than your best. Be confident and remember that many successful people (and plenty of professional and amateur players) have made mistakes academically. If you don’t do as well as expected, the time you spent learning and revising will still have been useful and will empower you to do better next time. You could consider retakes, a different sixth form or a vocational course – potentially ending up in the same place but by following a different path.

Never lose sense of who you are.

Education is a passport to the world, but so too could polo be. A combination of both would be a real winner.

Finally, good luck!

Results speak for themselves

Polo Times, November 2019

53

Knowledge

Fitness Insight: Climb the Fitness Ladder

Through playing professionally, coaching beginners and personal training, Jason has become very accustomed to understanding where players can develop different areas of fitness and movement patterns to improve their performance. In this issue Jason looks at the lower body and ways we can develop this area to improve our polo, as well as some pre-game mindset tips. Focusing on strength, mobility and balance of the body will help us to develop our game, but we must ensure we combine this with correct swing technique and time in the saddle – this is where the foundation of our progression is made

Climb the Fitness Ladder Part Two: Your path to polo success Strength

Mobility

Here is a stretch that you can do before playing, it can help you to open up your body as well as release your glutes and lower back.

If you struggle with a tight lower back this is a great stretch to release that tension. The muscles in your posterior chain (back body) are connected, so releasing your glutes tend to free up the lower back.

Feeling supple in your body before playing is key to feeling good in the saddle, playing shots with their full potential and reducing injury. What I think is beneficial about this stretch is that it opens up your core (trunk), along with the glutes and lower back allowing you to get into the correct position to play shots.

Target area: Glutes, lower back and core No equipment required Instructions: • Sit with legs straight out in front of you, a straight back and shoulders back • Bring your right foot over the resting left leg, • Rotate your body to the right and place your left elbow onto the outside of your right knee • Rotate your head with your body so you are looking as far behind you as possible • Use you left arm to increase the intensity of the stretch

54

Polo Times, November 2019

Split squat

• Repeat on opposite side of the body • Do before a game and during the week depending on your need to improve mobility (Remember it’s better to stretch when you’re warm)

Open up the body before playing

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Photography courtesy of Jason Warren

Split Squats When riding at speed and with a lot of changes of direction, stops and starts, having strength in your legs can help a player to get less fatigued when riding or playing and help them to travel well with the horse. The legs form the base for riding, absorbing the horse’s movement and playing shots, which makes them a vital part of your game. Here is an exercise that can help you to unilaterally build strength in your legs.

Target areas: Quads and glutes Equipment – Optional weight depending on ability Instructions, • Stand with your feet shoulder width apart • Place one foot back onto a raised step • Bend your standing knee until your front leg reaches 90 degrees • Push back up with your weight through your heel (the focus of the exercise is on the front leg – this is the leg we are working) • 3-4 sets, 8-12 repetitions, 2-3 times a week (always look to progress weight but ensure form doesn’t suffer)

Fitness Insight: Climb the Fitness Ladder

Balance

When playing either a nearside or offside shot, you should be transferring your weight into the side you are hitting from. This means having balance, stability and strength in each leg. This will help you to create the stable base we need when controlling the ball and playing full shots. Here is an exercise that you can do to strengthen your posterior chain as well as developing balance and stability in your legs.

Single-leg deadlift Target areas: Hamstrings, lower back and unilateral balance Equipment: Kettlebell Instructions: • Stand with your feet shoulder width apart • Start to drop your upper body forward sending one leg back • Keep a straight back, hips square and shoulders back • You should be able to feel a stretch in you hamstring at the bottom of the move • When at the bottom of the exercise, lift the upper body by driving hips forward and bring the trailing leg back down • 3-4 sets, 8-12 repetitions, 2-3 times a week (always look to progress weight but ensure form doesn’t suffer) N.B: Keep shoulder blades pinched through the whole move in order to keep a straight back. You should be able to feel a stretch on the hamstrings at the bottom of the move.

Single-leg deadlift

Knowledge

Mental

Visualisation When playing polo or any sport, confidence is the key to a good performance. We all have good and bad days on the field whether you’re playing chukkas or playing The Gold Cup. Therefore, being in the best possible mindset before playing can really help you to start a game right!

A good way to do this is through visualisation and confidence comes through previous experience. If we are on a good run, we will feel confident, if we are on a bad run we will feel less confident. Some people are affected greater than others by their recent performance, but everyone is affected to a degree by their most recent performances.

One way we can try to help ourselves get into the right mindset before playing is with visualisation.

Before the game, take a quiet moment to remember good plays or performances you have had recently.

The more we can get into this headspace, the better, focus on how you felt during and after the game. To do this before a game we need to get rid of distractions and really focus on and getting with those performances; this can help remind ourselves of our potential. ‘Where focus goes, energy flows’ – what we focus on is key to our confidence. Do this for five minutes before a game and see if you can alter your pre-match mindset.

Find Jason on Instagram: @jason_tola_warren or contact him at fitness@hampoloclub.com and www.tolalifestyle.co.uk

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55

Knowledge

Nutrition Focus

Lorna Edgar – specialist equine nutritionist

Broodmare & Foal Nutrition

rising plane of nutrition increases conception rates, which simply means the mare needs to be improving in condition at the time of conception. A mare should be fit but not fat when she is covered, with a body condition score of five to six at the time of covering, as we have taken into consideration the rising plane of nutrition. Mares that are significantly under or overweight are less likely to conceive.

Once in Foal

How to nurture the best offspring

The development of the foetus begins right from the point of conception, so it’s very important to feed appropriately from this time onwards. Minerals such as copper are vitally important in a mare’s diet as they, and other essential nutrients, are needed to build the cells and tissues that create a foal. Research has shown the foetus accumulates stores of minerals in its liver on which it can draw when born and growing rapidly. Without these reserves, the risks of Developmental Orthopaedic Disease (DOD) are increased as the foal grows.

Traditionally, broodmares are not fed until their third trimester, or sometimes they may receive a basic mix or cube to maintain condition, but this really does not support the mare’s nutrient requirements during pregnancy enough. Stud feeds have been formulated to support the broodmare, with a balance of vitamins, minerals and quality proteins essential in helping the development of the foetus. Copper, zinc, manganese, plus calcium and phosphorous, are all essential, but it is all about a balance of nutrients being received.

The Lactating Mare

Photography courtesy of Lorna Edgar

Whithorn Estate mare and foal

Breeding the next generation of equine athletes is an exciting time, but I so often come across broodmares, foals, weanlings, yearlings and older not being fed a concentrate ration. Alternatively, they are just fed at sporadic times, such as during the first few weeks of lactation, or the first couple of months of weaning, or during a few months of the winter.

As humans, we are advised to take particular care with our nutritional needs 56

Polo Times, November 2019

before, during and after pregnancy, and also for our children, ensuring we provide optimum nutrients for our offspring to support good growth and development – so why do we not do this for our mares and youngstock?

Preparing the Mare

You’ve made the decision to put your mare in foal, so you need to maximise the chance of conception by ensuring she is receiving optimum nutrition. Research suggests that a

Milk production requires more energy than hard work – a mare can consume up to 2.75 percent of her bodyweight as food per day (compared to about two percent for maintenance requirements). Good quality grass makes a significant contribution to the mare’s requirements and is a good basis to the diets of lactating mares, but it is VITAL that a stud ration is fed alongside to counteract any nutrient deficiencies that may be present in the pasture. I often speak about the grass providing calories but a balanced concentrate ration will provide those all essential proteins, vitamins and minerals.

The rapidly growing foal is totally dependent on milk from the dam during the first three months of life. The quality and quantity of the mare’s milk will determine the foal’s rate of growth, bodyweight and condition so the mare’s diet must contain sufficient nutrients to support the foal during this period. The mare’s milk will usually meet the foal’s requirements for protein and energy, however, the mineral density declines www.polotimes.co.uk

Nutrition Focus

Andrew Blake Thomas, Manager at Whithorn Estate, has appointed a Stud Groom, Helen Eustace, to ensure the mares and foals are fully catered for. They say, “All our mares, foals and youngstock here at Whithorn are fed correctly before conception, throughout their pregnancy, during lactation and weaning. The mares and youngstock will have their diets tailored to their individual needs, ensuring they are always on a balanced diet but not holding too much condition or losing too much condition, especially with the fluctuations in the great British weather!”

Feed for the Mare?

 Ensure she is receiving a suitable stud feed for her body condition ‘Good doer’ = Baileys Stud Balancer – low in calories but nutrient dense ‘Poor doer’ = a higher calorie Stud and Youngstock Cube or Mix  Feeding the manufacturers’ recommended levels is essential to ensure she is receiving the balance of nutrients she and her growing foal require  Forage type and quality needs to be considered…

- Good quality grass that is high in calories may mean she only requires a low calorie Stud Balancer. Remember, even the best grass will not provide your mare with all essential vitamins, minerals and protein - If on poorer grass or reliant on hay/haylage, consider a higher calorie Stud Cube/Mix  In the last trimester the foal is growing rapidly so a higher calorie diet may be needed to maintain condition; it may be necessary to move from a low calorie balancer to a Stud Cube/Mix - Divide feeds into small meals due to the limited space within the digestive tract and to maximise digestibility

Feeding the Foal

 It is often not necessary to feed a very young foal (three months and under) as it ultimately relies on the mare’s milk – the enzymes in the foal’s digestive tract are only able to digest milk/lactose at this stage. Foals eating out of the mare’s feed bowl is simply them mimicking behaviour rather than benefitting them nutritionally

as milk production increases, resulting in lots of energy but a ‘diluted’ mineral content, which can lead to problems such as epiphysitis and Developmental Orthopaedic Disease (DOD) in the foal. During these times it is essential we tailor the mare’s diet

Knowledge

accordingly, looking at her starch intake, the quality of her grass or forage and increasing her vitamin and trace mineral intake through supplementation or balancing/reducing her vitamin and mineral intake after analysis of forage.

When do I need to supplement the diet?

If the mare’s diet has been lacking, the foal may be weak, the mare’s milk is poor quality or in short supply or the foal is getting ‘top heavy’ or growing rapidly.

• Under three months o If calories are required for a weak foal or milk supply is inadequate = introduce a milk-based foal creep feed (eg. Baileys Foal Creep Pellets) o If top heavy or growing rapidly = vitamin/ mineral supplementation required to support growth whilst minimising calorie/ energy intake (eg. Baileys Foal Assist Plus) • Over three months o Foal can digest a stud ration and it’s important to counteract any shortfall within the mare’s milk and encourage the digestive system to adapt for weaning o Introduce a Stud/Youngstock cube or mix if calories are needed o If needing a low calorie/energy diet, opt for Stud balancer

How long do I feed the foal for?

Jamie Peel of Egerton Stud has Thoroughbred broodmares and also polo pony broodmares at his Newmarket based stud. “Since working with a nutritionist, I have changed my outlook on feeding, particularly with broodmares and youngstock. The positives totally out way the negatives, with foals being born strong, limb deformities being kept to a minimum and mares looking well with a high conception rate; so we know we are providing them with the best start in life,” he says.

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Feeding through weaning and right through to ‘adulthood’ is really what we are aiming for, always focusing on the quality of the diet and trying to avoid ‘growth spurts’ to encourage a nice, even growth rate. ‘Growth spurts’ are often seen with youngstock that are reliant on just grass without a balanced diet of hard feed, their growth will peak with the growth of the grass, thus increasing the risks of epiphysitis and DOD. A lack of top line and a ‘pot belly’ can be indicative of not enough quality protein in their diets. ontact Lorna Edgar of Baileys Horse C Feeds on lorna@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk Polo Times, November 2019

57

Knowledge

Medical Insight: Polodoc

Dr.med. Andreas Krüger is a Swiss board orthopaedic and trauma surgeon in Zurich, who specialises in knee and shoulder surgery. Andi is a second generation of tournament doctors for equine sports, known as Polodoc since 2013

Foot Fracture or Flat Tyre Both will stop you from playing Sebastian Schneberger is a vibrant German polo patron and tournament president. His well known tournament The Polo Picnic in Münster, Germany is especially known for its very high class polo. During a tournament, Sebastian broke the first metatarsal bone in his foot. Due to the complicated and comminuted fracture pattern (a break of a bone into more than two fragments) an operation was needed to stabilise the bone and reconstruct the articular surface of the end of the bone. Comminuted fractures, with involvement of the articular surface in the foot, are technically demanding and need the care of a specialist.

Anatomy

Of the 28 bones in a foot, 19 are toe bones (phalanges) and metatarsal bones (the long bones in the midfoot). Because the first metatarsal is larger and more important for foot function than the other metatarsals, malalignment of a first metatarsal fracture is less well tolerated than malalignment of a lesser metatarsal (70 percent of the total load is transferred through the first metatarsal bone). Adjacent metatarsals act as splints for a fractured metatarsal. Therefore, metatarsal fractures are usually not displaced unless there are multiple fractures, or the fracture is near the metatarsal head. When displacement does occur, the metatarsal head usually displaces in a plantar direction as a result of traction from the flexor tendons and intrinsic muscles of the foot.

metatarsals to the rest of the body. Injuries to this ligament complex, even if subtle, can cause long-term disability and are important to detect. Referral to a specialised foot surgeon is generally indicated for intraarticular or displaced metatarsal fractures, as well as most fractures that involve the first metatarsal or multiple metatarsals. If the midfoot is injured, care should be taken to evaluate the Lisfranc ligament. Injuries to this ligament require a specific treatment based on severity and prognosis can be bad.

Therapy

Conservative treatment In non-displaced fractures or metatarsal shaft fractures, a conservative therapy may be adequate. In this case, a hard boot or a rigid or stiff-soled shoe should work. Wearing a stiff-soled shoe protects the toe and helps keep it properly positioned.

You may hear a sound at the time of the break – pinpoint pain (pain at the place of impact) at the time the fracture occurs and perhaps for a few hours later, but often the pain goes away after several hours. A crooked or abnormal appearance of the foot with bruising and swelling the next day is an indicator for further examination. The definitive diagnosis is made with an X-ray or CT when the fracture is with comminution or involvement of the articular surface. In some cases, an MRI can help to detect a bone bruise or an additional ligamentous injury (which occurs when shearing forces are applied).

Operative Treatment In multiple and/or multi fragmentary fractures or when an involvement of the articular surface is objected, an operative procedure is indicated. This procedure includes open anatomic reconstruction and stabilisation with a variable angle stabilisation plate system. The Synthes® system is offering a pre-contoured plate with an angle stability option for maximum screw strength to retain the anatomic reconstruction. In cases of open fractures, an intermediated step with an external fixator can be necessary until the soft tissue situation is stable enough for a definitive treatment. Use of a postoperative shoe or ‘bootwalker’ is helpful to build on bony healing.

Complex fracture of the first metatarsal bone

Use of the Synthes system

Diagnosis

Injury pattern

Proximal metatarsal fractures are usually caused by crush injuries or direct blows.

They may also result from falling forward over a plantar-flexed foot. Clinical findings and evaluation are similar to those described above for acute shaft fractures. Although fractures of the proximal first through fourth metatarsals are less common than other metatarsal fractures, they warrant special consideration because they are often associated with injury to the Lisfranc ligament complex. These crucial ligaments hold the metatarsal bases rigidly in place, maintaining the arch of the foot and anchoring the 58

Polo Times, November 2019

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Medical Insight: Polodoc

Knowledge

Photography courtesy of Polodoc

Outcome

Correct post-operative alignment and unproblematic scar

Some people say that a broken bone in the foot is the worst – this is usually not true. In fact, if a fractured toe or metatarsal bone is not treated correctly, serious complications may develop. A deformity in the bony architecture may limit the ability to move the foot or cause difficulty in fitting shoes.

Arthritis may be caused by a fracture in a joint (the juncture where two bones meet) or may be a result of angular deformities that develop when a displaced fracture is severe or has not been properly corrected. Chronic pain and deformity as well as non-union, or failure to heal, can lead to subsequent surgery or chronic pain.

Return to Polo

A six week immobilisation break from polo is recommended and until the definitive bony healing is confirmed by an X-ray, competitive polo is absolutely not recommended. Initial

Preparation for the game with elastic taping with Compex® tape

swelling should be under control and can be an issue for the fit of the polo boot. A pre-contoured carbon insole can provide extra stability in cases where a need of early return to polo is required. Neuromuscular training can trigger an earlier regain of full muscle force and speed. Muscles are built and strengthened faster, neuromuscular and neurocognitive performance is optimised and neuromotor abilities such as coordination, strength, power and endurance are improved more efficiently without the danger of re-injury (www.ddrobotoec.com). With cooling and compression devices, pain and swelling can be treated very efficiently so that progressive improvement in mobility is possible (www.gameready.com).

Potential Complications of first metatarsal fractures Explained by foot and ankle specialist PD Dr. med: Norman Espinosa Arterial injury Compartment syndrome Complex regional pain syndrome Delayed healing and non-union Ischemic contracture or amputation if treatment of vascular injury or compartment syndrome is delayed Malunion (healing in an unacceptable position), which may lead to: • Dorsal keratosis from significant uncorrected dorsal angulation • Metatarsalgia, especially with first metatarsal fractures • Plantar keratosis from significant uncorrected plantar angulation of distal fragment • Nerve injury • Osteomyelitis (open fractures)

For more information on Polodoc contact Andreas Krüger at drmedkrueger@gmail.com or www.polodoc.ch Back to play

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Polo Times, November 2019

59

Knowledge

Performance Insight

Playing tips with Rege Ludwig The Law of Sequence

The perfect wrist motion Renowned polo coach, Rege Ludwig gives his expert advice on how to get more out of your game

Photography courtesy of Rege Ludwig

The abduct motion

The Law of Sequence – the first time I encountered that phrase was in the books, The Nature Of The Gallop and the Timing Of A Polo Stroke and Form In Striking, written in 1939 by 7 goal player, Dr. John D Richards.

Dr. Richards has a unique understanding of the mechanics of hitting the polo ball, which is why I frequently reference his work when I am trying to better understand the mechanics of hitting the polo ball.

By using the term Law of Sequence, Dr. Richards is referring to what the University of California at Los Angles concluded from a study they conducted when studying a golf player hitting a golf ball. Their conclusion was, the first muscles to move in the player’s body are located on the bottom of the feet.

From there, muscle implementation spirals up the body to the legs, through to the hips, the torso, shoulders, arms, elbow, wrist, hand, and finally the fingers.

As quoted from Dr. Richards’ book, “The sequence in which the striker’s forces are discharged is the most important single factor in the act of striking a polo ball, in fact any ball, and a rigid sequence of discharge of forces must be maintained if the striker is to cultivate the art of hitting and hit with the greatest efficiency. The vast majority of faults in striking …. can be traced directly to the violation of what may be called ‘The Law of Sequence’ upon which depends the phenomenon of rhythm without which no effective striking can take place.

“For instance, if a player hits from his rump instead of hitting from his feet, he violates this fundamental law, for he eliminates all forces below the rump – the 60

Polo Times, November 2019

leg thrust and body torsion. If he rotates his shoulder forward prior to rotating his hip forward, he also violates the law by eliminating all forces below the shoulder. If he grips the mallet handle tightly at the top of the stroke, he again violates the law. Every such violation results in loss of distance and what is more important in …. control….”

Related to the Law of Sequence, is another theory, ‘Power in Angles’. My intention for referencing them is to bring your attention to your wrist, your hand and your fingers, which are the last chance you have of affecting power within the hitting process.

I am aware that the wrist is conceived of as not being much of a power creator.

I cannot strongly argue with that concept.

However, I strongly contend that the wrist does contribute significantly to power when used where it is needed, which is just prior to impact, at impact, up to slightly after impact.

The reason those three points are important is because of the way the wrist moves through each.

The first movement of the wrist is to abduct or move your hand laterally away from your body to where your thumb nail is facing up toward your right shoulder, while keeping your arm close to your torso. The opposite move is adduct; used during the downswing.

The second movement is the flex or moving the back side of your hand toward your elbow, whilst the opposite move is extension; used during the downswing.

The third movement is supinate or turning the palm side of your hand forward, away from your body when rotated right.

The flex motion

The supinate movement

The pronate position

The opposite movement, turning the palm side in toward your body is pronate; used after contact with the ball.

At the top of the downswing of an offside forehand, the palm side of your hand should be facing out, i.e. supinate. At the same time, the abduct and flex angles of your wrist are fully engaged, not so dissimilar to throwing of a baseball, overhand.

Imagine the arch of the swing being represented by the face of a clock, with the nose of your horse’s pointing toward the three o’clock position.

Consequently, during the downswing of an offside forehand, at the nine o’clock position, your elbow should be straightening with the three angles of your wrist (abduct, flex, and supinate) fully engaged. At the eight o’clock position, your elbow should be straight with the first angle of your wrist, abduct, beginning to adduct. At seven o’clock, the second angle, flex, should begin extending your wrist straight toward the ball. That angle should be straight at the six www.polotimes.co.uk

Performance Insight

Knowledge

head down into the impact moment of hitting the polo ball.

If you diligently practice the exaggerated wrist throwing motion using a foot mallet throughout the off season, I can just about promise, that the beginning of next season will find you are hitting the ball further without really trying.

A word of caution – when initiating the downswing, a softer wrist is more conducive to an effective swing. Consequently, having a more open-handed pistol grip on the mallet handle is more conducive to producing that effective swing than is a tight fist grip.

Face of the clock illustration

o’clock position with the palm side of your hand facing forward. At five o’clock your hand should begin turning over or pronate.

At four o’clock the ball should be leaving the mallet head; and at three o’clock, your hand should have pronated over to the point of the palm of your hand facing in toward your horse’s neck and being flush against the plane of swing.

The significance of this article is to highlight the fact that the three angles of your wrist are strong maintainers of the

power created that will be released into the ball. And, if they are not used in their proper sequence, the power released into the ball can be dramatically reduced.

To develop a feel for the way the wrist should be used within the polo swing, throw an imaginary baseball overhand. First notice how the wrist is positioned when initiating the throw. Then pay particular attention to snapping motion of the wrist that is ending the throw. Now, practice that exaggerated wrist snapping motion throwing the mallet

The pistol grip versus tight fist grip

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“The difference in my ponies since they wintered on Paddock Power is extremely noticeable. I find when they come into work it’s almost as though they have already done two weeks of pre-training. Their top line and major muscle groups are very good. In the main season we are using Paddock Power Pro, the in feed supplement.

It’s proving to give the horses more stamina, a quicker recovery rate and with the added Biotin their feet are withstanding the rigours of polo much better than before.

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Paddock Power Advert 180x130mm_Tom Morley v1.indd www.polotimes.co.uk

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Polo Times,15/10/2019 November21:44 2019

61

Knowledge

Bridle & Bitting

Zimbabwean born Shane Borland has made a name for himself backing and developing young horses for some of the UK’s most illustrious yards. Having begun his equine career in polocrosse and later gone on to champion the world stages in reining, Borland has spent his life pursuing knowledge of exceptional horsemanship and reining his training programme accordingly.

Final Step to Success Last step in the round pen

Mounting & Flexing at the standstill

Photography courtesy of Shane Borland

In this the seventh and final step of the round pen stage, ‘the first ride’, I am going to explain how I approach and prepare to have my first ride on the young polo prospect. I believe that the first three rides of a young horse’s life, are the most dangerous and so it is very important that the first time you step up onto their back it goes well because it is going to set the stage for all future rides.

Preparation is key, and in all honesty, if I have been thorough with my ground work and have not cut any corners in the previous six steps of the round pen stage, then this, the first ride, should not be that big of a problem. Like in all other steps that make up the round pen stage, I have divided this step up into a series of exercises, each having their own specific aims, goals and reasons. These are as follows: 1) Mounting and flexing at the standstill 2) Creating movement 3) Walk, trot, canter 4) Inside and outside turns 5) Rope swing 6) Stick and bag 7) Dismounting

Creating movement in the horse’s hind quarters

Walk, Trot & Canter

Goal To be able to mount the young horse when he stands still and relaxed, and then flexes his head and neck from side to side with light steady pressure.

Why It is very important for the young horse to learn what is correct from the outset – to stand still and remain calm and relaxed when mounting, as this will set the tone for future rides and avoid unnecessary and potentially dangerous habits which could cause harm or injury to the rider when mounting and dismounting in the future.

Goal To be able to walk trot and canter the young horse in a calm relaxed manner in both directions.

Why It is extremely important to get the horse comfortable at all three gaits during his very first ride, especially in canter. You will never train a horse without having good forward motion allowing him to move forward freely, encouraging him to use all three gaits will help him to develop a good attitude and help lay the framework for the rest of his career.

Creating movement

Mounting & flexing at a standstill

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Polo Times, November 2019

Goal To be able to move the horse’s hind quarters and teach him to follow his nose and move his feet.

Why Rather than just letting the horse run off and hope for the best, I first try to get him used to how it feels to move his feet with me on his back, whilst maintaining a bend through his head and neck allowing me to stay in control of the situation, should he become over reactive during this movement. The sooner I can get his feet moving and changing directions, the quicker he will start to relax and become more reasonable and confident in his movement.

Walking, trotting and cantering in a calm manner

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Bridle & Bitting

Knowledge

Dismounting

Developing the fundamentals of stirring

nside & Outside Turns

Goal To be able to do a series of inside and outside turns and have him follow his nose willingly.

Why This exercise is important as it will help him to develop the fundamentals of stirring as with each turn the young horse will learn to follow his nose and respond to rein pressure.

Stick & Bag

Rope Swing

Goal To be able to swing the rope above his head and neck across and beneath his neck and along each sided of his body, whilst maintaining a walk trot and canter.

Dismounting whilst the horse remains calm and relaxed

Goal To be able to dismount the young horse whilst he remains standing still calm and relaxed.

Why It is important that the young horse gets used to seeing you step off and away from him for the first time and just like when I mounted him, I will make sure he is prepared for this experience and making sure it is a positive one.

I want to end the session the same why I started it, with the young horse standing still, remaining calm and relaxed.

Stick & bag create a higher degree of intensity

Desensitising the young horse

Why This exercise will help desensitise the young horse to objects that move and make noise all around his body, whilst moving forward, and with polo in mind will introduce the concept of having a polo stick swung above and around him. www.polotimes.co.uk

Goal To be able to swing a stick with a plastic bag attached to it in a manner similar to how a polo stick will be swung.

Why As in the previous exercise, this will help the young horse become comfortable and relaxed about having an object swung all around his body. The stick and bag helps create a higher degree of intensity which will in turn help desensitise the horse to sounds and movements whilst in motion simulating a swinging polo stick.

Key note – I generally try to only ride the young horse three times in the round pen before considering riding him in larger area, such as an arena or small paddock. I find if you stay in the round pen too long, the young horse can easily shut down mentally to the point where it becomes difficult for him to move forward freely. It is important to remember that getting the young horse to move his feet and go somewhere is the most important goal in his early rides. The first ride in the round pen serves as a safe place to introduce concepts and to double check that I have control over where and how the horse moves his feet before quickly moving out to large areas.

Shane Borland Coverwell Farm, Pillerton Hersey Warwickshire, CV35 0QA +44 (0)1789 740119 www.shaneborland.com

Polo Times, November 2019

63

Sidelines

Gossip

WELCOME JOSS!

FUTURE 10 GOALER

Toby and Olivia Clowes (née Hutchinson) have welcomed their first child, baby boy Joss, just ahead of their third wedding anniversary. What a way to celebrate guys! In true Hutchinson form, the entire family congregated in the hospital for this exciting event. Congratulations all!

Argentine 10 goal powerhouse Pablo Mac Donough and his wife Mechi, have welcomed their fourth child, a little girl named Irenita. The family are doing very well and are excited to welcome their new member.

WEDDING BELLS!

British international stalwart Matt Perry and his lovely fiancée Liv Mallach tied the knot on Saturday 28 September in front of friends and family.

Congratulations to you both!

WESTS ARE BEST

Photograph by Peter Meade Photography

In late September, Peter and Steph West (parents to Caspar, Crispin and Sophie) celebrated 48 years of marriage… what a benchmark! Congratulations to you both and cheers to the next 48! We hope the hula dancing is still going strong!

Photograph by ©www.imagesofpolo.com

Tell us yours at gossip@polotimes.co.uk Anonymity guaranteed if you want it...

BRILLIANT BOWNS

Guards Polo Club’s Tara Smith and HPA Umpire Tim Bown said, “I do” on Saturday 12 October in front of family and friends, followed by a rip-roaring reception at the Club. Congratulations!

PEREZ PUPPY

Newlyweds, Katie and Martín Perez, have welcomed a fur baby into their lives in the shape of Cookie, the springer spaniel puppy. Could he be any cuter?!

IT’S A WHITE WEDDING… SHE SAID YES!

0 goal player, PHD student, SAPA regular and now fiancé!

Mike Zurawski proposed to girlfriend Hannah Leslie at the Tedworth Park Polo Club End of Season Ball on Saturday 28 September in front of a bevy of thrilled guests. We all know what she said! Congratulations to you both!

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Polo Times, November 2019

Australian pro Alec White wed gorgeous girlfriend Yasmin Scrivener in front of family and friends from across the world in early October. What a perfect way to start the season!

Congratulations guys!

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event family the date of your with friends, days prior to 863262 as party menus ed at least 7 Enjoy Christm booking and need to be complet www.fostonsash.co.uk or call 01452 every or visit required for booking form Pre-orders are user-friendly of staff for a Ask a member a: Puddings served with brandy The Third Chukk s Pudding made Christma Foston’s home custard butter or vanilla black grapes and dressed green British Polo Sloe served with celery, lemon mayo and Stilton and biscuits with crisp bread, chutney soup, with Foston’s (V) homemade apple rarebit roasted tomato anglaise Homemade slow freshly baked sourdough Welsh served with crème and a Fruit crumble tomato pesto homemade pie with cinnamon deliciously rich de banoffee served with a Individual homema Venison carpaccio ise glazed banana truffle mayonna quinoa, with pumpkin salad. Roasted (Vg) Superfood pumpkin and pomegranate seeds a: £3.50 winning pie and award The Final Chukk diced apple, cinnamon tea, mini mince e petit fours e chocolate truffl House blend coffee, infused handmad s British Polo Gin : Mains s: for vegetarian V indicates suitable vegans with all the trimming The Second Chukka Vg suitable for and turkey breast sausage meat Classic free range sourced free range roast potatoes, organic and locally pigs in blankets, ng, free range Eve cranberry stuffi a red wine jus Year’s and nero New cavolo Join us for our glazed carrots, as we mark the extravaganza on a bed of neeps, sittings served Dinner marrow venison bone arrival of 2020.

Local roasted Manor Farm beef off partying with Todenham at 6pm for those accompanied 9.30pm for elsewhere and e and cavolo nero and celebrat s (V) those set to stay fizz the festive trimming a free glass of roast with all with us, with Vegetable nut hug on us sage and a New Year nied by crispy midnight. risotto accompa as the clock strikes Butternut squash (V) 1am! crisp Carriages at and a Parmesan

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Polo Pub at ing: Here at The The Prizegiv tat in your cracker? super charged Bored of plastic like to mix things up. Six we including your Foston’s Ash, or n with prizes height in beer ® be in circulatio crackers will sausages, your Polo Gin , in free range supply of British circumference wine, a month’s weight of your bottles of house leg in sausage rolls or the your the length of website for details * Please see our shoes in crisps. *T&Cs apply.

RS H I R E G L O U C E ST E N R B I R D L I P, 62 T H E C A M P, 01452 8632 sash.co.uk w w w. fo s t o n

, GL6 7ES

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party menus required for with friends, every booking Ask a member family or colleag and need to of staff for a be completed ues. user-friendly at least 7 days booking form prior to the date or visit www.fo of your event stonsash.co.uk or call 01452 863262 : Starter

Pre-orders are

The First Chukka

British Polo Sloe s Gin and beetroot with crisp bread, cured gravlax lemon mayo and served dressed green leaves Homemade slow roasted tomato tomato pesto and a freshly baked soup, with Foston’s sourdough Welsh rarebit (V) Venison carpaccio served with a truffle mayonna deliciously rich ise homemade Superfood pumpkin diced apple, cinnamon salad. Roasted pumpkin with quinoa, and pomegranate seeds (Vg)

The Second Chukka

: Mains

Classic free range organic and locally turkey breast with all the trimmings: sourced free range cranberry stuffi sausage meat ng, free range and pigs in blankets, glazed carrots, roast potatoes, cavolo nero and a red wine jus Local roasted venison served on a bed of neeps, accompanied with Todenham Manor Farm beef and cavolo nero bone marrow Vegetable nut roast with all the festive trimming s (V) Butternut squash risotto accompa and a Parmesan nied by crispy crisp (V) sage The Prizegiv ing: Bored of plastic tat in your cracker?

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The Third Chukk

a: Puddings Foston’s home made Christma s Pudding served butter or vanilla custard with

brandy

Stilton and biscuits served with celery, homemade apple black grapes and chutney Fruit crumble

served with crème anglaise Individual homema de banoffee glazed banana pie with cinnamon

The Final Chukk

a: £3.50 House blend coffee, tea, mini mince British Polo Gin pie and award infused handmad winning e chocolate truffl e petit fours V indicates suitable

Join us for our New Year’s Eve extravaganza as we mark the arrival of 2020.

Dinner sittings at 6pm for those off partying elsewhere and 9.30pm for those set to stay and celebrat e with us, with a free glass of fizz and a New Year hug on us as the clock strikes midnight.

Carriages at 1am!

website for details

T H E C A M P, N R B I R D L I P, G L O U C E ST E w w w. fo s t o n RS H I R E , G L sash.co.uk 6 7ES 01452 8632 62

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for vegetarian s Vg suitable for vegans

George Smith & Hermione Jones

Bill & Margaret Clark

Pam Davies, Henry Smith, Holly Jenkins & Howard Davies

Peaky Polo Party; Cheshire Polo Club; Friday 20 September

Polo & Prohibition Cheshire Polo Club marked the end of their season with a whopping party, in true 1920s form. Stepping back in time to the cobbled backstreets of Birmingham, the Club once again embraced all things Peaky Blinders, bar the flat cap weapons of old, transforming the Club into Thomas Shelby’s favourite haunt, The Garrison, for their 2019 shindig, with more tweed and faux Brummy accents than you can shake a stick at. Guests were treated to a prosecco reception followed by a delicious buffet to sink their teeth into. The night really began when the live music burst into action, from Peaky Blinders inspired band, Fifty Fingers, as guests took to the packed dancefloor to celebrate another successful season.

Photography by Mark R. Heath Martin & Rachel Kidd Bob Quirk & Angela Mar

Karen, Ged & Annabelle Kelly

Pat Hall, Craig Southern & Jan Wilson

Sarah & Andrew Clegg

Alan & Yvonne Johnson

John Wheeldon & Tracy Jefferies

Peter & Mary Lightfoot

Lesley Parker, Duncan Adamson, Simon & Heather Walton

James Van Oppen & Cassandra Thomas

Anna Hunt, Jo Davies with Paul & Sharon Girdham

Kate Howe & Zara Glew

End of Season Party; The Finch’s Arms, Hambleton; Saturday 28 September

One Last Hurrah Another successful season drew to a close in Rutland with delicious food and wine aplenty at The Finch’s Arms, the perfect post-polo watering hole. With limited spaces available, Rutland’s nearest and dearest snapped up the tickets and the opportunity to celebrate a thrilling 2019 season. What’s more, with the dinner also signalling the departure of the muchloved Polo Manager Hugh Crouch, the salutations and best wishes were as abundant as the clinking champagne glasses.

With plenty of exciting developments set over the winter months, one thing’s for sure, 2020 is set to be a corker!

Col Foster with Mr & Mrs Peach

Natasha & Hugh Crouch

Photography courtesy of Rutland Polo Club

Edwin de Lisle & Jane Collie

Leslie & Paul Maxfield Gullett

Louise Rambaut & Nigel Horner

Christmas Gift Why not treat yourself or a friend to Polo Times?

Call our friendly subscriptions team: 01452 730 770 or visit www.polotimes.co.uk

iPad

Grace Perry & Ed Winterton

Karen Reeve

Josh Morris, Rich Hine & Steve Worsley

Sean Wilson-Smith & Annette Linscott

Emily Bunn-Edon with Saskia & Richard Swift

End of Season Ball; Tedworth Park Polo Club; Saturday 28 September

End of Season to New Beginnings

Adrienne Winchester & Ed Tyrell

This season wasn’t just about great polo in the heart of Wiltshire, it was all about a new look for an age-old Club. 2019 saw the rebrand of Tidworth Polo Club into Tedworth Park Polo Club, aligning with its military neighbours. To celebrate not only another end to another thrilling season, but also this exciting new era for the Club, members and guests took to the dancefloor, fuelled by a delicious three course meal and refreshments courtesy of British Polo Gin. Celebration was the top of the agenda, with the 150 revellers dancing the night away in true Tedworth Park style. What’s more, the evening was even blessed by a proposal, as 0 goal pro and Club member Mike Zurawski proposed to girlfriend Hannah Leslie – no guesses for what her answer was! Congratulations to the happy couple and to Tedworth Park for another exciting season.

Giles Anderson, Rhian Smith, Steph Bere & Sean Hemans

Photography by Peter Meade Photography Alika Peach-Molloy & Felicity Townend

Piers Hankinson

Dawn Hubble, Carole Nelson & Carly Duck

Amy Rossiter, Mel Mathieson, Sarah Glover, Robyn Evans & India Ringer

Jess Andrews, Sheena Robertson & Heloise Wilson-Smith

Andrew Ramos

Mike Zurawski & Hannah Leslie

Jamie Balls, Jess, Angela & Chris Andrews with Dickie Winchester

Jonathan Inderwick, Steve Worsley, Josh Morris & Sergei Harvey

Polo directory

What’s On – Polo Fixtures

New Zealand

Club

Tournament Name

Handicap Start Date End Date

Westcroft Park

Challenges

Open

02/11/19

03/11/19

RCBPC

Club Chukkas

Open

02/11/19

03/11/19

Ash Farm

Challenge Matches

Open

02/11/19

03/11/19

Druids Lodge

Barfott Bottle & Pig Trophy

Open

02/11/19

05/11/19

Druids Lodge

El Rosario Trophy

Open

09/11/19

10/11/19

Rugby

The WPPG Cup

Open

09/11/19

10/11/19

RCBPC

Weekend Tournament

1–3

09/11/19

10/11/19

Ash Farm

Challenge Matches

Open

09/11/19

10/11/19

Emsworth

Opening Winter Season

Open

09/11/19

10/11/19

Westcroft Park

Winter Trophy with Night Finals

10 –12

09/11/19

16/11/19

Druids Lodge

Poppy Sunday Trophy

Open

10/11/19

10/11/19

Eynesbury

RCBPC

Arena Challenge Trophy

7 – 8

10/11/19

11/11/19

Yarra Valley

RCBPC

The Richmond Trophy

4–6

16/11/19

17/11/19

RCBPC

The Metropolitan Trophy

10 – 12

16/11/19

17/11/19

Emsworth

Arena Challenge

Open

16/11/19

17/11/19

Ash Farm

Winter Warm-Up Cup

1–3

16/11/19

17/11/19

RCBPC

HPA National Club Championships

1–3& 10 – 12

19/11/19

01/12/19

Rugby

Arena Challenge

Open

23/11/19

24/11/19

Westcroft Park

Westly Green Farm Plate

5–8

23/11/19

24/11/19

Ash Farm

Challenge Matches

Open

23/11/19

24/11/19

WOMEN’S POLO Maui

Hawaiian Islands Circuit Women’s Challenge

0 –4 & 9 – 12

30/10/19

03/11/19

Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club

Ladies Charity Cup

Open

02/11/19

02/11/19

Central Coast

Pacific Coast Circuit Arena Women’s Challenge

9 – 12

09/11/19

11/11/19

Houston

Texas Women’s Open

16 – 20

11/11/19

17/11/19

Houston

U.S Open Women’s Handicap

12 – 18

11/11/19

17/11/19

RCBPC

Ladies Nations Cup

4 – 8

20/11/19

23/11/19

East Texas

Southwestern Circuit Arena Women’s Challenge

0 – 12

30/11/19

01/12/19

La Aguada

Ladies Cups

16

03/12/19

07/12/19

America Club Polo Cabo Grand Champions Grand Champions Grand Champions Grand Champions Grand Champions

Arena Congressional Cup Fall Classic Fall Plates Wellington Open 20 Pedro Morrison Memorial USPA National 20 Legends of Polo Carlos Grand Champions Gracida Memorial Grand Champions 2019 International Cup

6 – 8 Medium Medium High Medium High

08/11/19 01/11/19 08/11/19 13/11/19 15/11/19 20/11/19

09/11/19 03/11/19 10/11/19 16/11/19 17/11/19 23/11/19

High

30/11/19

30/11/19

High

30/11/19

30/11/19

Copa Primavera

La Aguada

Campeonato Amateur

La Aguada

La Aguada Guards Polo Cup La Aguada Cowdray Park Polo Cup The Argentine Open

La Aguada Palermo 70

Polo Times, November 2019

Christchurch Tournament SIPA Open

12 0–4& 5–8 16

22/10/19

02/11/19

10/11/19

18/11/19

19/11/19

23/11/19

16

26/11/19

30/11/19

40

16/11/19

14/12/19

0&6 10

15/11/19 30/11/19

17/11/19 01/12/19

Open Open Open Open

08/11/19 15/11/19 16/11/19 22/11/19

10/11/19 17/11/19 16/11/19 24/11/19

01/11/19

10/11/19

16/11/19

17/11/19

23/11/19

24/11/19

30/11/19

01/12/19

South Africa Rosefield Rocking Four Steyn Bay Inanda

Rosefield Tournament Rocking 4 Standard Bank Polo in the Park Inanda Summer Cup

Australia

Eynesbury Mingela

Stella Artois Melbourne Polo Cup Open 0–4& Yarra Valley Tournament 8 – 10 0, 4 – 6 Eynesbury Tournament & 8 – 10 0, 4 – 6 WPNEC Club Cup & 8 – 10

Dubai Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club

AHPRC League

4–6

08/11/19

16/11/19

7th Habtoor Polo Challenge Cup

Open

15/11/19

15/11/19

UAE National Day Cup

8 – 10

20/11/19

29/11/19

Singapore Singapore Polo Club Singapore Polo Club Singapore Polo Club Singapore Polo Club Singapore Polo Club

Beaujolais Cup Grooms’ Cup Syces’ Challenge Cup Tengku Makhota Pahang Plate 2019 Polo Season Ends

Open Open Open Open Open

02/11/19 09/11/19 16/11/19 16/11/19 18/11/19

03/11/19 10/11/19 17/11/19 17/11/19 30/11/19

Snow Polo Dates Kitzbühel

Snow Polo World Cup 2019

Open

16/01/20

19/01/20

St. Moritz

Snow Polo World Cup 2019

Open

23/01/20

26/01/20

Quick Question Answer -

to the question posed on our Letters page

A: The first Tortugas Open was played in 1940 and La Dolfina have won the title six years in a row

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Polo directory Club contacts UK and Ireland CLUB

PHONE

EMAIL

CLUB

PHONE

EMAIL

All Ireland Polo Club

00353 01 6896732

dstone@indigo.ie

Home Farm Polo Grounds

07807672120

rachaelkearnet@hotmail.co.uk

All England Polo Club Hickstead*

01273 834 315

polo@hickstead.co.uk

Hurtwood Polo Club

01483 272828

gary@hurtwoodparkpolo.com

Apsley End Polo Club*

01462 712444

tobiana.scott@gmail.com

Kirtlington Park Polo Club

01869 350138

info@kirtlingtonparkpolo.co.uk

Ash Farm Polo Club*

07799 812739

ashfarmpolo@hotmail.com

Knepp Castle Polo Club

07920 023639

info@aspectpolo.co.uk

Barfold Polo Club

07778 808853

mborwick@gmail.com

Leadenham Polo Club

07429 299026

office@leadenhampoloclub.com

Bawtry Polo Club

01302 773282

info@bawtrypoloclub.co.uk

Longdole Polo Club*

01452 864544

info@longdolepolo.com

Beaufort Polo Club

01666 880510

enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk

Moor Farm Polo Club

07494 114190

shop@moorfarmshop.co.uk

Beverley Polo Club*

01964 544877

info@beverleypoloclub.co.uk

Moor Hall Farm Polo Club*

01279 450637

alecbeve@btinternet.com

Binfield Heath

01491 411969

bhpcmanager@gmail.com

New Forest Polo Club

07977 224404

annabelparryjoyner@yahoo.co.uk

Blueys Polo Club*

07930 323263

polomanager@blueyspolo.co.uk

Norfolk Polo Club

01508 480400

office@norfolkpolo.co.uk

Bramham Polo Academy

07811 993316

emmadvh@btinternet.com

Northern Ireland Polo Club

07803 020577

info@northernirelandpoloclub.co.uk

Bunclody Polo Club

00353 87 6605917

info@poloclubbunclody.com

Offchurch Bury Polo Club*

07816 830887

info@offchurchburypoloclub.co.uk

Burningfold Polo Club

01483 200722

derrek@burningfold.com

Pangbourne Polo Club

07708 906810

aprice@polofix.com

Cambridge Polo Club*

07711 217004

cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com

Peover Polo Club

07766 016 833

polomanager@peoverpoloclub.co.uk

Cambridge County Polo Club*

01223 812922

info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk

Polo Wicklow*

00353 404 67164

siobhan@polowicklow.com

Carlton House

07901 561113

harrietservaes@hotmail.com

RAF Cranwell

07739 569491

rafcranwellpoloclub@yahoo.co.uk

Chester Racecourse Polo Club

01244 304602

amorris@chester-races.com

Ranelagh Polo Club*

01344 885697

ranelagh@labravapolo.com

Cheshire Polo Club

01270 611 100

info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk

RCBPC*

01344 890060

polo@rcbpc.com

Chiltern Polo Club

07973 174542

info@chilternpoloclub.com

RMAS Polo Club

07973 174542

rmas-nc-aci-projinters@mod.uk

Cirencester Park Polo Club

01285 653225

info@cirencesterpolo.co.uk

Rugby Polo Club*

01788 817724

info@rugbypoloclub.com

Cowdray Polo Club

01730 813257

enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk

Rutland Polo Club

07772 040668

secretary@rutlandpoloclub.co.uk

Curraghmore Polo Club

00353 51 387102

mkennedy@cssgroup.ie

Silver Leys Polo Club

07730 060200

silverleyspoloclub@gmail.com

Dallas Burston Polo Club*

01926 812409

polo@dbpoloclub.com

St. Albans Polo Club

07956 017090

info@stalbanspoloclub.co.uk

Dorset Polo Club

01202 623985

office@dorsetpolo.co.uk

Stewarton Polo Club

07974 706045

info@stewartonpolo.co.uk

Druids Lodge Polo Club*

01722 782597

abi@druidspolo.co.uk

Suffolk Polo Club

07990 576974

aes3@cam.ac.uk

Dundee and Perth Polo Club*

07831 365 194

jamesscrawford@aol.com

Sussex Polo Club*

01342 714920

info@sussexpolo.co.uk

Eastwood Polo Club

07875 743475

frankums@googlemail.com

Taunton Vale Polo Club

01823 480460

nhs.wheelers@gmail.com

Edgeworth Polo Club

01285 821695

edgeworthpolo@gmail.com

Edinburgh Polo Club*

01314 496696

djamesjamie@aol.com

Tidworth Polo Club*

01980 846705

info@tidworthpolo.com

Emsworth Polo Grounds*

01344 883112

info@fourquarterspolo.co.uk

Toulston Polo Club

01422 372529

info@toulstonpoloclub.com

Epsom Polo Club*

07961 232106

epsompoloclub@hotmail.com

Triskelion Polo Club*

07624 272547

polo@triskelionpolo.club

FHM Polo Club*

07778 436468

frances@fhmpolo.co.uk

Vale of York Polo Club*

07788 426968

info@valeofyorkpoloclub.co.uk

Fifield Polo Club*

01628 620061

fifieldpoloclub@live.co.uk

Vaux Park Park Polo Club*

07703 524613

vppc@btconnect.com

Great Trippetts Polo Club

01428 741916

charles@trippetts.com

West Wycombe Park Polo Club*

07787 560729

secretary@westwycombepolo.co.uk

Guards Polo Club*

01784 434212

polo@guardspoloclub.com

Westcroft Park Polo Club*

01276 858545

info@westcroftparkpolo.co.uk

Ham Polo Club

020 8334 0000

office@hampoloclub.com

White Rose Polo Club*

01430 875767

info@whiterosepolo.co.uk

Hertfordshire Polo Club*

01707 256023

polo@hertspolo.co.uk

White Waltham Polo Club

07748 670587

kim@playpolo.co.uk

* Also open for arena polo in the UK winter

Equipment

Marketplace Livery

SMALL BALE HAY Freshly cut 29th July Selling as we have too much 50 bales available Minimum purchase 5 bales £3.50 per bale Collection only Tel: 01452 730770 (Gloucestershire, GL2)

Transport

PO1O RAT Registration plate on retention and ready for immediate transfer Offers Invited Tel: 07860 906032

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7.5T RENAULT MIDLUM HORSEBOX 2004 Renault midlum truck.

-179,000km - Cruise control - Partitioned for 6 -Aluminium body and floor (NO RUST) -Luton and under body storage Price: £7k ono Contact Harry 07766 585356 harry.whiteworx@gmail.com Newbury, Hampshire

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

Property PRIVATE POLO YARD TO LET in Holyport, Berkshire. 30-35 mostly new wooden stables divided into 2 adjacent yards. Absolutely superb facilities, grooms accommodation.

Price: TBC Call Kate on 07968 195574 Holyport

Equipment BEN HASTIE PHOTOGRAPHY - Equine & Countryside Photography specialising in Polo www.benhastiephotography.com/ 07970 348883 Cheltenham

Polo Times, November 2019

71

Final bell

In association with Aprés Polo

Photograph by Ben Hastie

Known to most as the charismatic Polo Manager of Beaufort Polo Club, Caspar West has got polo in his blood. Son to Peter and Stephie, he has championed polo at all levels from his home in Gloucestershire, punching out into the world of both the professional and umpiring arms of our sport. By day, he ensures Beaufort runs like clockwork, whilst by night, he can be found planning his next adventure and developing strategies to make polo more accessible – guaranteeing that everyone and anyone has the chance to be part of this exciting world. We speak to him about what makes him tick...

What is your biggest passion and why?

Coaching, development and (not that I get a chance to do so much now) young horses.

What is your all-time best polo memory?

Winning the National Independent Schools Tournament against Eton, who had Hugh Dawnay as their coach, as complete unknown underdogs against some of the best teams about!

Hardest opponent? Olly Tuthill.

Which sports do you like outside of polo?

I love most sports but skiing, hunting, horse racing and rugby would be top of the list.

Favourite song/album? Hysteria by Def Leppard, Cars Greatest Hits.

Favourite food/ dish? Indian, I love spice!

Favourite hobby outside of polo? Skiing, hunting and golf.

72

Polo Times, November 2019

Favourite celebrity and why? Roger Moore. He was always the best 007!

Best holiday destination & activity?

Sotogrande playing tennis, Courchevel for skiing, Plettenberg Bay for polo and being dragged out running with Olive!

Favourite film and why? The Man from Snowy River and Highlander, the Queen soundtrack in it was a classic favourite!

Who were/are your favourite teammates?

My original Pony Club team, consisting of my brother Crispin and the two Blake-Dyke brothers Christian and Andrew have to be up there, but also Olly Tuthill.

Most prized possession?

My signet ring given to me by my dad.

Best pony and why? Sea Imp, a Thoroughbred I spent a long time working with as a very nervous youngster, to then see go on to play in the Finals of The Queen’s Cup, The Gold Cup, The Cartier Internationals and finally in The Open at Palermo!

Are you passionately superstitious? Not wildly, but I am an even number kind of guy!

Describe yourself in three words… Clumsy, stubborn, devoted.

One thing which would surprise us about you? I am in the Guinness Book of Records for the youngest person to parasail at the age of five. www.polotimes.co.uk

TRAIN IN THE WINTER SUNSHINE

WITH POLO VALLEY SOTOGRANDE

Now open all year round, continue your polo training out on the grass this winter and join us at Polo Valley Sotogrande.

With over 300 days of sunshine, all just a short flight away, let the Polo Valley team organise the perfect winter get away.

www.polovalley.com