Commentating Explained

Commentating Explained Simon Ledger explains the art of polo commentating Simon Ledger began playing polo in world, at over 100 polo matches per year 1976 and in 1987 found himself running both at home and abroad, we thought it Tidworth Polo Club. While hosting the was high time we got some of Simon’s top Pony Club one day, John Wright, the then commentating tips. organiser of the Pony Club, arrived and asked, “Who is commentating”, when Simon Do you commentate for any other sports, admitted he had failed to book one John or just polo? Yes I do, I have called point replied, “Well you damn well do it!” After to points but now do all the announcing succeeding at that first attempt, Simon’s – runners, riders etc – very much scripted commentating career began and announcing done to time. I also do County he was asked to do The Shows Main Ring and that involves Rundle Cup with the everything from motorbikes, showjumping, Prince of Wales livestock parades, terrier racing and also playing in interviews with folk like the NFU President. 1988 and Research is key, I am also an auctioneer. he has done every Where have you commentated? All over Rundle Cup the world! China, Mongolia, the US – New since (apart York and Washington, France, Germany, from when they Johor Bahru, Singapore, Australia, Mexico, were postponed Morocco, India – Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, due to Foot Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Soto Grande, Florence, and Mouth and Thailand and Moscow – I will never go there Covid). Having again! And, of course, UK with most clubs commentated – but over the years I have enjoyed seeing all over the the Pony Club gang from Fluffies go up the handicaps e.g. the Lewis [Hugo and Rupert) boys etc.

What are you top tips for successful polo

commentating? Accuracy above all, be clear, concise, identify the shots and above all why particularly at the higher level. Pre match, talk to the teams, note hats, elbow guards, check positions – they often change. Ask for one pony, name, why and when it will be played, often it is the third or fifth chukka the best ponies come out. Never be critical, unkind or create humour out of a mistake. Never commentate when a penalty is being taken. Never call a foul. For me it is the glory of polo and stressing the fitness of both horse and rider and whilst it has an image for obvious reasons ,

Photograph courtesy of Simon Ledger to me it is the best game in the world. The game of kings and the king of games!

Is it difficult to see which players are which?

Not really, if you have done your homework. I have special sheets which I fill in, colour of hat, shape of hat, elbow guards etc. The key is that, if possible, a line up with No 1s in the middle etc and introduce each player, that for me cements all 8 in my mind so instant recognition without reference elsewhere.

What is the most challenging aspect of

commentating? Concentration and keeping a flow, never gabble, lower tone and pace according to the play (never shout), be generous and explain to a non-polo crowd why something has happened and if possible the consequences e.g. penalties and their importance. Is the audience an important part? The single most important aspect. I see it as telling a story and painting a picture of teamwork – tactics, great skill, bravery and fitness both of the players and the ponies.

Commentating has taken Simon across the globe

Where is your favourite place to

commentate? Cirencester Park Polo Club, the position is perfect.

Where is the most exotic place you have

commentated? It must be the three trips to Mongolia.