VICTORY FOR ENGLAND
King’s Coronation Cup
2023 PONY CLUB POLO CHAMPIONSHIPS
Results, Awards & Best Playing Ponies
CLUB SPOTLIGHT
Cheshire Polo Club
PLUS: Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup & Don’t Forget to Defend
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Exhibition
Cirencester Park Polo Club 14th-17th September 2023.
Contacts Marlborough Sporting 01934 613996 rupertof25@gmail.com
Whilst the month of September traditionally heralds the winding down of the UK’s summer polo season, the incredibly wet and cold August, followed by a predicted ‘Indian summer’ in September 2023, looks as though keeping our ponies in work a few more weeks might prove worthwhile as polo grounds the length and breadth of the country are still very playable.
The unpredictability of the weather –and what some are saying is a definite change in weather patterns – will undoubtedly fuel the debate of adjusting the timing of the British playing season. However, despite the inclement weather, polo continued to be played in the UK at all levels, as is evidenced by the multiple reports in this issue. Highlights for me include: nine pages of Victor Ludorum spanning 18 to 4 goal and a further nine pages on the Pony Club Polo Championships – both reports are proof that polo is alive and well.
For most British professional polo players, attending the Championships at Cowdray is still regarded as an essential rite of passage, with Pony Club Polo, for many, being where it all began. Polo Times is proud to continue with its support of the Championships through its Best Playing Pony Awards – and it was a privilege to be there on the August weekend to witness the competitiveness of the polo combining in equal measure with the camaraderie. For many players, friendships forged in the Pony Club Polo endure over the years and is what polo is all about. This is no different for the Hine family –and whilst the DJ having gone AWOL caused consternation for some of the party goers, his absence did mean that more time was afforded to conversation than dance moves. It was really quite remarkable on the Sunday morning seeing Mums and Dads being the first to push the burgeoning wheelbarrows to the muck heaps, despite having definitely been amongst the last to leave the party the night before… you know who you are!
As always, keep well and play safe Nick
Hine, Publisher
Polito Pieres has been raised to 10 goals in the UK
The Hurlingham Polo Association has released their 2023 High Goal Handicap Changes. Polito Pieres, who won The Cartier Queen’s Cup with Murus Sanctus has been raised to 10 goals, becoming one of four players in the UK to hold the 10 goal handicap alongside Camilo ‘Jeta’ Castagnola, Facundo Pieres and Hilario Ulloa.
Other changes include recent winners of The Cowdray Gold Cup, Lukin Monteverde (from 6 to 7) and Tommy Beresford (from 7 to 8), Cowdray Gold Cup finalist Beltrán Lauhlé (from 3 to 5) as well as Jerónimo del Carril and Facundo Fernández Llorente raised from 7 to 8, Felix Esain and Santos Merlos from 5 to 6.
The full list of changes can be viewed at hpa-polo.co.uk
On Sunday 23 July, Roda Polo UK held an exhibition match at Cowdray Park Polo Club just before The Cowdray Gold Cup Final. Roda Polo is a new fast paced 3 a-side team sport played on an e-wheel that has evolved out of equestrian polo. Played using shortened polo mallets, e-Wheels can go nearly as fast as polo ponies in full canter. You can control the speed and direction with your balance, while trying to hit the ball at full speed, coordinating with your team to score goals. In addition to being a fun new sport, Roda Polo is increasingly being seen as way to train young equestrian polo players, as it allows the maximum time honing hand-eye coordination and balance etc.
The exhibition match saw E-Riders secure a 5-3 win against Polo Power with Teo Savaglau chosen as the Most Valuable Player.
Roda Polo Exhibition Match Teams:
Polo Power: Lujan Heguy, Mati Maldonado & Archie Heseltine
E-Riders: Teo Savagleu, Bruno Bradshaw & Pilar Fernandez Araujo
Following the Autumn season, the Argentine
Images of Polo has a Limited Edition of Fine Art Aluminium Prints available on their website (www.imagesofpolo.com), which illustrate a variety of ‘poloscapes’ including action, grooms on the sidelines and pony line shots. Each is a limited edition of five and are priced at £200 each.
Texas, Wales, New Orleans, PRIDE USA, USA Women’s All-Star team, Aspen Valley, and two teams from Arizona.
The first match will see Texas Polo ClubGarland taking on the PRIDE USA. Among PRIDE’s celebrity players is actor Sterling Jones (as seen in Grey’s Anatomy), The Barbie Movie and NCIS, he will be joined by Juan Bollini and Vinny Sangaline. Garland’s line-up will include Oscar Chacon-Hidalgo and Alec Felhaber.
The second match between Arizona Polo Club (including Diego Florez & Andres Camacho-Castillo) and USA’s Women’s All-Star team (Danielle Travis, Natalie Grancharov-Castillo & Carolyn Likas).
Association of Polo (AAP) has announced their latest handicap changes, which includes a total of 115 raises and 132 reductions, all of which will take effect in the 2023 Spring season. The full list of changes can be seen on the AAP website, but below is a spotlight on some of the changes:
5 to 6 goals:
Lucio Fernández Ocampo
Javier Guerrero
Marcos Harriott
Mateo Lafuente
Santiago Llavallol
Keko Magrini
Santos Merlos
Josesito Riglos
4 to 5 goals:
Lorenzo Chavanne
Simón Crotto
On Saturday 4 November, The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships will be returning to WestWorld of Scottsdale. The 2023 line-up includes the polo teams from
The main match of the day will see the undefeated Bentley Scottsdale’s Aspen Valley Polo Team (Nic Roldan, Grant Ganzi & Melissa Ganzi) against Wales Polo Team (Jason Crowder, Ricky Cooper & Pete Webb).
Beltrán Laulhé
Marcos Panelo
3 to 4 goals:
Tomás Ferrari
Over 1 – 10 September, Polo Club
On Sunday 20 August, Lucas Labat, Facundo Kelly and Raúl Laplacette lifted The Hublot Polo Cup Gstaad for the second year in a row. Playing as team Gstaad, they defeated Hublot 11-5 in the Final, with Raúl Laplacette (later named Most Valuable Player) scoring seven goals to overwhelm their opponents. Tintin, played by Raúl Laplacette, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony and Kielder Agro took third place after a close 6-5 win against Gstaad Palace.
The Hublot Polo Cup Gstaad Final Teams:
Gstaad (14): Sébastien Le Page (0), Facundo Kelly (4), Francisco Fucci (4) & Raul Laplacette (6) Hublot (14): Jürgen Schröder (0), Juan Correa (3), Matias Gonzalez (4) & Martin Aguerre Jr. (7)
Düsseldorf will host The XIV FIP European Polo Championships for the first time. The tournament will see eight nations compete, with defending European champions Italy, facing off competition from England, Spain, Austria, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Azerbaijan and Germany. The first European Polo Championships took place in 1993 in St. Moritz, Switzerland. With six wins, one second and one third place, England has been the most successful nation at The European Polo Championships so far, followed by Italy (with three title wins) and France (with two wins).
The writer of letter of the month wins a bottle of British Polo Gin @britishpologin 18 years and over & UK addresses only
Dear Editor
Santiago Funes, son to Sebastian Funes (2 goal pro) and Emma Nicholson (0 goal patron), began his journey on the field this month, at eight-years-old. He was so incredibly excited to play his first ‘mini chukkas’ that he wanted to write a letter to Polo Times to tell the world about his experience. His younger sister, Elodie Funes was cheering Santiago on from the sidelines with Grandma, Lesley Nicholson. Santiago was often seen in his younger days playing with his hand mallet whilst watching his parents play polo and his dream is to follow after his father, Seb, to play as a polo professional in the UK.
“Playing polo for the first time was amazing. I got to play with my mum and dad, my friends and their mum and dad. When we started playing I was nervous but once I’d finished I scored 3 and one of my friends scored 3 as well. The score was 3-3. I loved it. My polo pony, Chiquita, played amazing and I don’t think I did bad either. Thank you to White Rose Polo Club for organising the game”.
Dear Editor
I used to play polo as a boy until I went up to university, and my father sold my horses. I would ride my horse from our farm to the polo field at Addo, Sundays River Valley, inland from Port Elizabet, South Africa, and although one should be at least 14 years of age to play polo, since we lived in quite an isolated region, I started playing at 12.
Of course, it was somewhat difficult for me to ‘ride off’ other, much older and stronger players, but, somehow, I managed.
Players that regularly played polo at Addo were the Nivens, including Dan and Pat, sons of Jack and Cecily Niven of Amanzi Estate, and Peter Bunton was known as the ‘thundering vet’, while the referee was ‘Val’ Sullivan, notorious for using the foulest language on the field!
In those early days, women did not play the game, but my sisterin-law, Janine, who regularly umpired our games, was, being a capable rider, somewhat discretely, allowed to, occasionally, play as well!
Also of certain interest, I can recall that, after the final chukka, I would, invariably, be called to assist a player in the removal of his riding boots, and I would have to bend down, clutch the boots while facing away, and the rider would put his other foot on my backside and heave me and his boot off!
It is the 100th anniversary of the Addo Polo Club this year and Jack Niven, 1892 – 1985, bought the ground, built the Clubhouse, and played polo here right from the beginning until after his 70th birthday, and was the Life President of the Addo Polo Club!
In fact, polo is said to be an Indian invention, but an English sport, and an American profession.
Val Sullivan was the Chairman of the Addo Polo Club where I would play as a schoolboy, and Dan Niven usually played back, and he was promoted to a three handicap, while Jack Niven was ‘the old man of the game’, and Peter Bunton was known as the ‘Thundering Vet’, since as he played thundering game, ‘when upright’, according to the image of these players adorning the walls of Addo Polo Cub!
Finally, Jack Niven, ‘The Grand Old Man of Addo’, was still playing tournament polo at 64.
Yours sincerely, Martin
Briggs
Following on from The Whitbread Trophy which saw Young England defeat their Commonwealth opponents 11-4, the action continued with The King’s Coronation Cup between England and another Commonwealth line-up.
England Captain Tommy Beresford went into
Polo Championship for The Cowdray Gold Cup Final. Beresford was joined by James Beim, with this year’s Coronation Cup marking his 14th cap for England in the prestigious match, with only Julian and Howard Hipwood having more caps to their name; Beim was also part of the 2023 winning Westchester Cup line-up alongside Beresford. Ollie Cudmore first played in The Coronation Cup in 2014, but was seeking his first title. Following an injury sustained earlier in the season, with just a week to go, the decision was made to call up Max Charlton to replace James Harper, making this Charlton’s fourth Coronation Cup appearance. Charlton played alongside Coronation Cup team mates Beim and Beresford in The Westchester Cup in March 2023.
Facing this experienced England side was the Commonwealth team, led by Canadian Fred Mannix
who has played for the Commonwealth in The Coronation Cup three times before, winning both on his debut in 2002, again in 2016 and suffering a defeat in 2017. Chris Mackenzie represented South Africa, having played in The Coronation Cup on two occasions, including as part of the 2016 winning Commonwealth team alongside Mannix.
New Zealander John Paul ‘JP’ Clarkin splits his time between the UK and New Zealand and this was his fifth appearance in The Coronation Cup, having played for New Zealand in 2006 and 2010, and then playing alongside Mannix and Mackenzie in 2016 and 2017. Garvy Beh rounded off the Commonwealth line-up, making his Coronation Cup debut and becoming the first Malaysian player to compete for the title.
With the Commonwealth holding two wins to just one loss against England going into this year’s match, there was all to play for, with the visiting side eager to extend their score while England were looking to draw level.
Beresford opened the scoring for England with a penalty to neutralise the Commonwealth’s one goal handicap start, followed by another, but Mackenzie scored to make sure that England did not run away in the first chukka. While the England line-up used one another to consistently find the goal, the Commonwealth struggled to make the most of early chances in the second chukka. However, under the guidance of team coach, John Horswell, they found their momentum in the third chukka, with a goal from Mannix keeping them in contention going into half-time.
An action-packed fourth chukka saw five goals added to the board, but England really took off in the fifth chukka, with their teamwork once again proving to be key. Beresford converted another penalty before Cudmore, fighting a ride-off from Mannix, found Beim at the goal to move five goals ahead. Mannix kept his team’s hopes alive with a lofty penalty shot, heading into the final chukka four goals down, 11-7. Beim and Cudmore continued to work effectively, but Mannix scored again to bring them back within four goals, 12-8. However, in the end there was simply not enough time left for the visiting side to break the deficit accrued in the fifth chukka and England ran out the winners, 12-8, keeping The Coronation Cup on home soil for another year.
On Saturday 29 July, 2022 defending champions Sainte Mesme faced Dos Lunas La Hacienda in The ATL Marine Energy Bronze Cup High Goal Final at Los Pinos, Sotogrande. After an initial 3-3 tie in the first chukka, Sainte Mesme dominated the Final and outscored their opponents in the following five chukkas, keeping their defensive game tight whilst also applying constant pressure to Dos Lunas La Hacienda’s goal. After six, thrilling high goal chukkas they secure themselves a convincing 17-9 victory to retain the title for another year. Carlos María Ulloa received the Most Valuable Player award, Beltrán Laulhé took home the Fair Play Award and Ruda, played by Santiago Laborde, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.
The ATL Marine Energy Bronze Cup High Goal Final Teams:
Sainte Mesme (22): Robert Strom (4), Carlos María Ulloa (6), Marcos Araya (6) & Santiago Laborde (6)
Dos Lunas La Hacienda (22): Pascual Sáinz De Vicuña (5), Beltrán Laulhé (3), Joaquín Pittaluga (7) & Cruz Heguy (7)
Sotogrande began with the medium goal ATL Marine Energy Bronze Cup Final between Electric Polo and Amanara on Friday 28 July on Ayala Polo Club’s ground 1. Both teams scored in the first chukka and although Amanara managed to pull ahead in the second chukka, by the half-time bell Electric Polo had levelled the scores at three goals apiece. The second half belonged to Amanara as they consistently dominated the scoring and by the start of the sixth chukka held a commanding 10-4 lead. Electric Polo scored three goals to just one in reply from Amanara in the last chukka, but it was too little too late and Amanara became the first champions of The 52nd International Polo Tournament Andalucía with an 11-7 win. Lorenzo Chavanne was nominated Most Valuable Player, Sarah Braune received the Fair Play Award and Back Home, played by Chavanne was named Best Playing Pony.
The ATL Marine Energy Bronze Cup Medium Goal Final Teams:
Amanara (14): Nicky Sen (0), Tomas Ferrari (3), Lorenzo Chavanne (4) & Santiago Chavanne (7) Electric Polo (14): Sarah Braune (0), Felix Esain (5), Francisco Crotto (4) & Tomas Garbarini (5)
The second Final of The 52nd International Polo Tournament Andalucía saw 2022 champions, Cotton House face La Capilla/ Strabrock on Saturday 29 July. La Capilla/ Strabrock were the underdogs going into the Final with a 2 goal difference resulting in a 1½ handicap advantage. Despite giving away 1½ goals before the match had begun, Cotton House wasted no time and racked up an impressive four goals in the opening chukka, swiftly setting the tone for the high scoring Final. While Cotton House’s scoring went from strength-to-strength in the remainder of the Final, unfortunately for La Capilla/Strabrock they struggled to find their feet and only managed three goals throughout and Cotton House retained the title with a 9-4½ win. Jaime Espinosa received the Most Valuable Player award, Gaetan Charloux was presented with the Fair Play Award and Carnaval, played by Benjamin Araya, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.
The ATL Marine Energy Bronze Cup Low Goal Final Teams:
Cotton House (8): Ricardo Trujillo (0), Jaime Espinosa (2), Benjamin Araya (5) & José Trenor (1)
La Capilla/Strabrock (6): Kevin Korst (1), Pedro Beca (2), Juan Carlos Gavira (1) & Gaetan Charloux (2)
The 52nd Andalucía International Polo Tournament Terralpa Silver Cup Finals were played over Friday 11 and Saturday 12 August.
On the second day of action, Park Place faced San Luis in The Terralpa Silver Cup High Goal Final. The first half was very evenly matched, with each of the three chukkas tied (3-3, 4-4 and 5-5). After half-time, Park Place held a narrow 7-6 lead, but San Luis swiftly responded with four goals of their own in the fifth chukka, 10-8. Both teams then drew level once again in the sixth chukka, 12-12, and the thrilling Final was pushed into over-time. 9 goaler Hilario Ulloa, later named Most Valuable Player, scored the winning goal for Park Place, giving them their first ever Sotogrande title in their International Polo Tournament Andalucía debut. JB Bleach, played by Sapo Caset was the Best Playing Pony, Irenita Antonia, played by Ulloa was the AACCP Best Playing Pony and Luis Aznar received the Fair Play Award.
The Terralpa Silver Cup High Goal Final Teams: Park Place (22): Varvara Borodina (0), Antonio Heguy (5), Juan Britos (8) & Hilario Ulloa (9)
San Luis (22): Luis Aznar (0), Lukin Monteverde (6), Sapo Caset (9) & Santiago Cernadas (7)
The medium goal Final between Almasanta and Amanara kicked off The Terralpa Silver Cup Final action on Friday 11 August on field 3 of Los Pinos. Both teams vied for the upper hand in the first two chukkas, but by the third chukka it was Joaquín Castelvi’s Almasanta who took the lead, 6-4, which by the fourth chukka they had managed to increase to a seeimgly unbeatable 9-5. Almasanta didn’t take their foot of the pedal and with some strong team plays, especially in the throw-ins, they managed to further increase their lead in the last two chukkas and took the win, 13-9. Castelvi received the Most Valuable Player Award, V8 Coco, played by Santiago Chavanne, was the Best Playing Pony and Nicky Sen was awarded the Fair Play Award.
The Terralpa Silver Cup Medium Goal
Final Teams:
Almasanta (14): Joaquin Castelvi (0), Tomás Delfino (4), Salvador Jauretche (5) & Pelayo Berazadi (5)
Amanara (14): Nicky Sen (0), Tomás Ferrari (3), Lorenzo Chavanne (4) & Santiago Chavanne (7)
On field 4 of Los Pinos on Saturday 12 August, the low goal title went to Aguilas, who defeated Esso 8-7 in the Final, with Segundo Fernández Llorente named Most Valuable Player; Alazanas Imperial, played by Javier Guerrero was chosen as the Best Playing Pony, with Hannah Buchan awarded the Fair Play Award.
The Terralpa Silver Cup Low Goal Final Teams:
Águilas (8): Hannah Buchan (-1), Bau Buchan (0), Segundo Fernández Llorente (4) & Ezequiel Zubiaurre (5)
Essso (8): Ian Gallienne (0), Cristian Bernal (4), Javier Guerrero (5) & Elliot Gallienne (-1)
The Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup combines the Thoroughbreds of the car world with their equine counterparts all on one day at Guards Polo Club, as 50 Ferraris of the Ferrari Owners Club of Great Britain descended upon the Club for a thrilling polo match between Monterosso and Ojo Caliente in the battle for Guards Polo Club’s newest tournament. These were not the only stunning Ferraris on show at Smith’s Lawn though, as John Collins of Talacrest had brought eight of his own cars to the Club
for the day and Ferraris were definitely the theme of the day – at the post-match presentations, Collins chose his Best Ferrari of the Day which went to Peter Hogan’s black, 1990 Testarossa.
Back on the polo ground, Monterosso dominated the first half with excellent teamwork
between Jeronimo del Carril and Ignacio Toccalino, plus a goal from Alejandro Bazzoni; while goals from Facundo Sola, Matt Perry and Ana Escobedo kept Ojo Caliente in contention, it was definitely Monterosso who were in the driving seat for the first half.
Ojo Caliente’s team manager, Glen Gilmore, must have parted some inspirational wisdom at half-time as they came out firing on all cylinders in the fourth chukka with John Paul Clarkin opening the scoring with a comeback goal, followed by excellent team play between himself and Perry resulting in another on the scoreboard. Sola also found the goalposts once again for Ojo Caliente with just a minute left in the chukka and Clarkin capped it off with another goal to level the scores as the bell went.
With both teams eager to gain the upperhand in the fifth chukka, there was all to play for and the crowds were treated to spectacular horse races between Clarkin and del Carril, while Monterosso’s Segundo Darritchon proved formidable in defence.
The sixth chukka began with a levelling penalty for Ojo Caliente, but del Carril stormed to goal on Best Playing Pony, Lucky Lady, to give Monterosso the lead again and followed this up with another goal from the next throw-in. As the tension mounted, both teams conceded penalties, which put Monterosso ahead 12-10 with only two minutes of play remaining. Sola successfully converted another penalty for Ojo Caliente but time was against them and at the final whistle it was Monterosso that won the game 12-11.
On Saturday 29 July, Guards Polo Club hosted not one but two international matches, with The Whitbread Trophy between Young England and the Commonwealth opening the action and followed by The King’s Coronation Cup; to read more about the second match of the day, please turn to page 12.
The first chukka saw strong attacks from the Commonwealth team, but the only goals resulted
from converted penalties with two apiece for both Louis Hine and Jake Daniels, 2-2. Young England stormed ahead with a goal from Hine as well as a lovely goal from Luke Wiles as he carried the ball the whole way down the field, which gave the home team a 4-2 lead going into the second half. After a half-time chat with their coach Nacho Gonzalez, Young England took control of the match, with their fast pace leaving the Commonwealth side
behind as Young England worked together to score four additional goals in the third chukka, with nothing in reply from the visiting team. The Commonwealth players rallied in the fourth chukka with goals from Captain Hissam Ali Hyder and a second goal from Daniels, but Young England replied with goals from Harper and Hine to end the match 11-4 and secure The Whitbread Trophy once again.
Where: Guards Polo Club, Windsor
Young England (15)
Louis Hine (5)
Will Millard (2)
Luke Wiles (4)
Will Harper (4)
Commonwealth (15) Hissam Ali Hyder (4)
Adebayo Karim (2) Abby Pathak (4) Jake Daniels (5)
Chukka scores: 2-2, 4-2, 8-2 & 11-4 to Young England
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Despite the best efforts of the typically wet ‘British summer’, polo has been played up and down the country at every level from 18 to 4 goal, with a huge 14 reports in this latest Victor Ludorum Update.
This year’s 4 Goal Super League under its new format is culminating as we go to print, with the first Super League Champions soon to be decided –watch this space!
18 Goal Victor Ludorum
Guards Polo Club – The Indian Empire Shield –Saturday 22 July
Number of teams: 17
Winners: La Irenita
Points: 90 La Irenita, named after the MacDonough family’s bloodstock breeding enterprise in Argentina, faced Simon Arber’s Four Quarters Orange in an evenly
matched Indian Empire Shield Final. Ignacio Negri opened the scoring in the first chukka for Four Quarters Orange and it was not until the third chukka that La Irenita managed to get onto the scoreboard, thanks to a 30 yard converted penalty by Matias MacDonough, although Arber then fired through a field goal to keep Four Quarters ahead by one at the break.
Matias MacDonough converted a second penalty to level the score in the fourth chukka, with his uncle, Pablo, scoring soon after to put La Irenita in
The Indian Empire Shield was played in some challenging, rainy conditions
the lead for the first time. However, Simon Prado, later named the Most Valuable Player, picked up a lovely pass from Gonzalo Ferrari to again level the scores. Pablo MacDonough and Irenita La Kiosquera, who later received the Polo Times Best Playing Pony prize, raced the ball from the half-way line to goal early in the fifth chukka and when Matias MacDonough converted another penalty, La Irenita suddenly found themselves with a two goal advantage. With three minutes left to play, Negri converted a penalty to close the gap, but a subsequent safety 60, also off the stick of Negri went wide, ensuring this game finished in five chukkas and La Irenita headed home with a 5-4 win. To read more about Irenita La Kiosquera, please turn to the Pony Power pages.
The Indian Empire Shield Final Teams: La Irenita (18): Gilberto Sayao (0), Will Harper (4), Pablo MacDonough (9) & Matias MacDonough (5)
Four Quarters Orange (18): Simon Arber (0), Gonzalo Ferrari (7), Ignacio Negri (6) & Simon Prado (5)
Cowdray Park Polo Club – The Challenge Cup –Sunday 6 August
Number of teams: 10
Winners: Vikings
Points: Awaiting ratification by HPA
The 18 goal Final took place on Lawns 2 between Vikings and Murus Sanctus. Vikings had a slightly amended line-up with Kayley Maria Smith standing in for Siri Evjemo Nysveen and Sam Browne taking Hazel Jackson’s spot. Murus Sanctus took an early lead, scoring three goals in the first
chukka while the Vikings struggled to find their form and the goal posts. However, this did not last for long and going into the fourth chukka both teams were fighting for the upper hand. In the end it was Vikings’ Diego Cavanagh who scored the winning goal, 8-7. Juan Martin Zubia was named Most Valuable Player and Emezeta Rhodesia, played by Juan Martin Zubia, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.
The Challenge Cup Final Teams: Vikings (18): Kayley Maria Smith (0), Sam Browne (2), Diego Cavanagh (8) & Juan Martin Zubia (8) Murus Sanctus (18): Barbar Naseem (0), Matt Perry (5), Marcos Araya (6) & Tommy Beresford (7)
Cowdray Park Polo Club – The Harrison Cup –Monday 7 August
Number of teams: 11
Winners: Estancia Lamar
Points: 90
A break in the wet weather allowed the postponed Harrison Cup Final to go ahead, two days later than planned, on Monday 7 August. The 18 goal Final between White Crane and Estancia Lamar saw five goals scored in the first chukka, with Tommy Beresford, later named Most Valuable Player, on particularly good form. Mackenzie Weisz tried hard to find the goalposts for White Crane, but Estancia Lamar were unstoppable and by the end of the fourth chukka the scoreboard read 10-5 in their favour. The fifth and final chukka final saw goals from Weisz and Rayyan Al Ajaji, resulting in an undeniable victory to Estancia Lamar, 11-6. Lionela, played by Marcos Araya, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.
Cirencester Park Polo Club – The County Cup – Saturday 19 August
Number of teams: Six
Winners: SONA Polo
Points: Awaiting ratification by HPA
Indubitable and SONA Polo battled against each other on Ivy Lodge and the scoreboard was kept even throughout, until the last minute of the final chukka, when SONA Polo scored the winning goal to secure the magnificent County Cup Trophy, 7-6. Most Valuable Player was awarded to Kaspar Budd who at just 16-years-old was the youngest player on the field and in the winning team. Best Playing Pony was Sahara, a 10-year-old South African Thoroughbred, played by Chris Mackenzie.
The Subsidiary Final was played earlier in the day between Noon Giraffe and Tafia Mafia/Carlton House. Noon Giraffe were victorious, 5-2, and took home The Neil Haig Trophy.
The County Cup Final Teams:
Indubitable (15):
Christian Badenhop (1), Evan Power (3), Chris Mackenzie (6) & Matias Amaya (5)
SONA Polo (15): Kaspar Budd (0), Manu Grossi (4), Mark Tomlinson (6) & Luke Tomlinson (5)
Cirencester Park Polo Club – The Cheltenham
Cup – Sunday 30 July
Number of teams: 12
Winners: Wascosa/Standing Rock
Points: 60
A very wet and windy Sunday saw Wascosa/ Standing Rock go head-to-head against Senzaltro in The Cheltenham Cup Final. As the crowds gathered under umbrellas, Wascosa/Standing Rock put two goals on the scoreboard in the first chukka, but Ollie Cork wasn’t far behind, scoring
Senzaltro’s first goal of the game, 2-1. Vieri Antinori swiftly raised the scoreline with a second goal for Senzaltro in the second chukka, however Pier Andrea Mueller, later named Most Valuable Player, replied with three goals for Wascosa/Standing, 5-2. The spectators stoically took to the ground to tread in at half-time, despite the persistent downpour. Senzaltro came back in the third chukka with three goals between Jules Van Vegchel, Vieri Antinori and Nico Antinori levelling the scores, 5-5 going into the last chukka. The fourth chukka began with both teams quickly trying to raise their score to win the game. Paco O’Dwyer was the first to score in the fourth chukka, placing more pressure on Senzaltro. With just one minute left and after a few missed goals from Senzaltro, O’Dwyer sealed the deal and scored a second goal just seconds before the bell rang to secure the win for Wascosa/Standing Rock, 7-5. Secretaria, played by Pier Andrea Mueller, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.
The Cheltenham Cup Final Teams: Wascosa/Standing Rock (12): Pier Andrea Mueller (2), Estanislao Mariano Darritchon (0), Nacho Gonzalez (4) & Paco O’Dwyer (6) Senzaltro (12): Jules Van Vegchel (0), Ollie Cork (4), Vieri Antinori (4) & Nico Antinori (4)
Guards Polo Club – The Duke of Wellington –
Sunday 20 August
Number of teams: 15
Winners: Yaguara
Points: Awaiting ratification by HPA With 15 teams competing across three weeks for a place in the Final, the competition was fierce, but it was Yaguara and King Power who went headto-head in the Final in late August and Martina Lowe’s team were behind, 5-4, at half-time but then delivered a strong second half. Goals from the talented young player, Leon Donoso, who was later named the Most Valuable Player, and Chris Mackenzie in the third chukka gave Yaguara a crucial, one goal lead going into the fourth and final chukka. Two further goals from Mackenzie and Andrea Vianini confirmed Yaguara’s 9-7 win. Beltran Di Paola worked hard to keep King Power in contention in this match, delivering five of his team’s seven goals. However, Yagura’s teamwork ensured King Power were unable to regain the advantage in the final minutes of the match. Forest Aloe Vera, played by Vianini, was named the Polo Times Best Playing Pony.
The Duke of Wellington Final Teams: Yaguara (12): Martina Lowe (0), Leon Donoso (2), Adriano Vianini (4) & Chris Mackenzie (6) King Power (12): Sam Wisby (1), Beltran di Paola (2), Marcos di Paola (6) & Hugo Lewis (3)
8 Goal Victor Ludorum
The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club –
The Julian & Howard Hipwood Trophy – Saturday 22 July
Winners: Kulin Rock
Points: 60
Despite the rain and wind, Members and friends alongside guest of honour Julian Hipwood, gathered to watch The Julian & Howard Hipwood Trophy Final and Subsidiary Final.
Richard Bailey and his Kulin Rock team took on Hipwood Polo in a hard fought match with both teams giving it their all. In the end it was Kulin Rock who secured the win, 10-7, with Charlie Walton named Most Valuable Player and Doc Eroupé, owned and played by Nico Fontanarrosa, chosen as Best Playing Pony. The Subsidiary Final saw Chris Bruckner, substituting for son Rafi with Elemental, victorious over Cani by half a goal, 8½-8.
The Julian & Howard Hipwood Trophy
Final Teams:
Kulin Rock (8): Richard Bailey (0), Charlotte Pykett (0), Charlie Walton (4) & Nico Fontanarrosa (4)
Hipwood Polo (8): Hector Rogberg (1), Charlie Hipwood (0), Segundo Darritchon (3) & Santi Araya (4)
Cowdray Park Polo Club – The Holden White Cup – Sunday 6 August
Number of teams: 12
Winners: Limitless/Delaney Polo Team
Points: Awaiting ratification by HPA
The Holden White Cup is played in memory of the American journalist and polo player, Windsor Holden White, and this year’s Final saw Limitless/ Delaney Polo Team vs Strategic Help for Heroes. Lucho Aguirre launched Limitless/ Delaney Polo Team into the lead with three goals in the first chukka, followed by a fourth from Oscar Mancini in the second chukka to widen their lead. By the end of the third chukka Lucho Aguirre had once again pushed his team forward with two more goals to Matt Evetts’ one, creating a four-goal lead
for Limitless/ Delaney Polo Team. Strategic Help for Heroes turned the tables in the fourth chukka with three goals in a row to help close the gap, but they ran out of time and Limitless/ Delaney Polo Team took the win, 6-5. Aguirre was named Most Valuable Player and the Best Playing pony rug was awarded to Fachera, played by Aguirre.
The Holden White Cup Final Teams: Limitless/Delaney Polo Team (8): Tani Darritchon (0), Kristina Karailieva (1), Oscar Mancini (3) & Lucho Aguirre (4) Strategic Help for Heroes (8): Peter O’Rorke (0), Phillip Seller (2), Edward Morris-Lowe (3) & Matt Evetts (3)
Everett – Sunday 13 August
Winners: CPG
Points: Awaiting ratification by HPA
Despite some inclement weather, the highly anticipated Budgett Everett Final took place on the number one grounds of Kirtlington Park Polo Club. Against the picturesque backdrop, the stage was set for an exhilarating showdown between the formidable teams of CPG and Hookum/Winkfield. The two teams had displayed their skills in the previous matches and the spectators were eagerly anticipating a fierce battle.
In the first chukka, both teams were evenly matched, but in the second chukka, CPG gained the
August
Winners: Mount Loftus/ Los Cariocas
Points: Awaiting ratification by HPA
On a glorious sunny Sunday at Ham Polo Club, Mount Loftus/ Los Cariocas and Hookum/ Winkfield battled it out in a close Final for the prestigious Roehampton Cup, which was first played for in 1902. Ham Polo Club won the trophy in 1947 and when Roehampton Polo Club closed, its trophy was kindly donated to the Club where it has remained to this day.
Rob Wilson and Guru Johal fought hard throughout for Hookum/ Winkfield, with phenomenal defence by Vieri Antinori helped by Josh Clover, but unfortunately the team missed two crucial penalty opportunities. At the end of the third chukka the scores were equal, 3-3, but Georgina Brittain and Tarsis Goncalves managed to squeeze past the post in the final minutes of the game to take the win, 4-3.
Jonny Good’s individual performance earned him the Most Valuable Player title and his dark bay mare, Pippa, proudly sported the Best Playing Pony rug.
The Subsidiary Final for The Critchley Trophy saw Jet Set defeat Bavarian Hugs, 8-3.
The Roehampton Cup Final Teams: Hookum/ Winkfield (6): Guru Johal (0), Rob Wilson (0), Josh Clover (2) & Vieri Antinori (4) Mount Loftus/ Los Cariocas (6): Gerogina Brittain (0), Tarsis Goncalves (0), Richard BlakeThomas (2) & Johnny Good (4)
advantage. The game was briefly paused when Rob Morran took a fall, but thankfully, both he and his pony were unharmed, allowing the play to continue. Going into the last chukka, CPG maintained their lead with a goal, and they finished the game with a strong victory of 7-4. At the presentations, players received a range of prizes from sponsors CSC Polo and David Ashby secured the Most Valuable Player prize as well as the Best Playing Pony award for his nine-year-old gelding, Stype Heath.
The Budgett Everett Final Teams: CPG (6): Sally Turner (0), Rob Morran (0), Hector Worsley (3) & David Ashby (3) Hookum/Winkfield (6): Rob Wilson (0), Guru Johal (0), Josh Clover (2) & Vieri Antinori (4)
Druids Lodge Polo Club – The Druids Rose Bowl – Sunday 30 July
Number of teams: Four
Winners: Druids Lodge
Points: 30
Four teams entered the 4 goal Victor Ludorum, The Druids Rose Bowl. Dragonfly x The Marque came up against a strong Druids Lodge team in the Final, goals flying between the posts from the moment the ball was thrown in and by half-time, Druids Lodge held a narrow 3-2 lead. Dragonfly x The Marque moved into the lead in the third chukka, answering goals from Druids Lodge’s Robin Ormerod and Roddy Stanning, with the scores tied 5-5 going into the last chukka. Druids Lodge had a fortuitous fourth chukka and by the end of the Final the victory was theirs, 7-5.
Earlier in the day, Timb Ply took on Canonbury in the Subsidiary Final, Roddy Stanning substituting for an injured Harold Hodges. A competitive match with strong defence from both teams led to a low scoring start, but Timb Ply edged ahead in the second half and secured the win, 5-2.
Vaux Park Polo Club – The August All Apple Classic – Sunday 13 August
Winners: Timb-Ply
Points: Awaiting ratification by HPA
The August All Apple Classic Final between Dragonfly x The Marque and Timb-Ply was a gripping display of 4 goal polo, with the lead constantly moving from team to team, with some excellent attack and defence.
Dragonfly x The Marque led the first chukka, but by half-time Timb-Ply had fought back and taken the lead, 3-2. Dragonfly x The Marque worked hard in the third chukka and headed into the final chukka with a 5-3 lead. Timb-Ply once again went on a goal scoring spree and scored three more goals, to just one in reply from their opponents, levelling the scores at 6-6 at the end of regulation play. A minute into the extra chukka, a foul was committed, giving Timb-Ply a penalty, which was converted by Will Padden to secure their 7-6 victory.
Andrew Wessels received the Most Valuable Player award and Guitarra, played and owned by Ben Malasomma, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.
The August All Apple Classic Final Teams: Timb-Ply (4): Bobby Bell (0), Ben Malasomma (3), Will Padden (2) & Don Gibbs (-1) Dragonfly x The Marque (4): Eden Ormerod (3), Lolly Stanhope-White (1), Andrew Wessels (0) & Wilf Bate (0)
Tedworth Park Polo Club – The KRH CUP –
Sunday 20 August
Winners: Timb-Ply
Points: Awaiting ratification by HPA Timb-Ply beat Canonbury and Druids Lodge beat TAMAC in the Semi Finals, both games were fast paced, and polo was played end to end on the Number One Fisher Ground at Tedworth Park Polo Club.
In the Final, Timb-Ply beat Druids Lodge 7-3 with some excellent goals from Ben Malasomma, who took the ball straight from the line-out to the goal in the third chukka, scoring two goals in very quick succession. Eden Ormerod worked hard in keeping his team together and his seven-yearold Druid homebred, Rhythm, received the Best Playing Pony award. Timb-Ply’s Brigitte Boher received the Most Valuable Player award.
In the Subsidiary Final, TAMAC beat Canonbury 6-4½, with nice penalties from Roddy
Stanning and two good field goals from Cosi and Christine Thome in the final chukka.
The KRH CUP Final Teams: Timb-Ply (4): Don Gibbs (-1), Brigitee Boher (0), Ed Morris (2) & Ben Malasomma (3) Druids Lodge (4): Arthur Wade (-1), Johan Spendier (1), Lolly Stanhope-White (1) & Eden Ormerod (3)
Beaufort Polo Club – The Claire Tomlinson
Trophy – Thursday 10 August
Number of teams: Six
Winners: Semper Anticus
Points: Awaiting ratification by HPA
The Claire Tomlinson Trophy honours the legacy of Claire Tomlinson and this year saw some of the best ladies players battle it out in the 12-16 goal tournament. The Final was blessed with warm and sunny weather, making a nice change from the previous week of rain. Semper Anticus and
Senzaltro went head-to-head on the Club’s HMA Tax No.1 ground and Senzaltro’s Maddie Grant kicked off the scoring with a quick penalty, however Nina Clarkin was ready for action and levelled the scores for Semper Anticus in the first chukka. Clarkin and Lucy Coddington fought hard in the second chukka to score two additional goals, but Grant scored another penalty to leave the score at 4-2 going into half-time. The beginning of the third chukka saw Nina Clarkin producing some outstanding polo which resulted in a swift steal and goal, with Semper Anticus leading by 5 points to 3 in the fourth and final chukka it seemed unlikely that that Senzaltro could level the score. Lottie Lamacroft ended the chukka with an impressive goal, but it was not enough to secure the win for Senzaltro. Coddington’s Lucky received the Polo Times Best Playing Pony, to read more about Lucky please turn to the Pony Power pages.
The Claire Tomlinson Trophy Final Teams: Semper Anticus (16): Clarinda Tija-Dhamadi (1), Imogen Blake-Thomas (0), Lucy Coddington (5) & Nina Clarkin (10)
Senzaltro (16): Sarah VanVegchel (1), Charlotte Pykett (3), Maddie Grant (6) & Lottie Lamacroft (6)
Now it its 15th year, The Yorkshire Open Polo Championships takes place annually in August at White Rose Polo Club and is aimed at celebrating all levels of amateur polo player. This year’s tournament saw 16 teams competing across three levels. Players and teams came from around the country including, Cheshire, Thoresby Park, Toulston and White Rose. With six teams competing in the higher, eight team in the middle level and two teams in the lower level there was a wide range of experience with 66 players on the field! It was a wonderful weekend of competitive polo with a great atmosphere and well attended by enthusiastic spectators. Matches started at 9am on each day on beautiful grounds that had been rested and prepared for four weeks prior to the tournament. The 2 goal Final was a hotly contested match between Summit and Jodpur of Yorkshire with Summit carving out a narrow victory by two goals, 4-2. Amy Sallabank was chosen as Most Valuable Player and La Meka, played by Bautista Funes, was the Best Playing Pony.
The
Final teams: FQC & VetMedi UK
The -1 to -4 goal Final was a great match with 512 from Toulston going straight into the lead from the first chukka. Anglo Asian fought back strongly but couldn’t do enough to overcome the early lead set by 512 who won by three goals, 7-4. Guido Basile was the Most Valuable Player and Mancha, played by Daisey Dixon, was the Best Playing Pony.
The -4 to -6 Goal Final was won by FQC who dominated the game against VetMedi to win by four goals, 11-7. Lucy Wilkinson was the Most Valuable Player and Zorzal, played by Suzanne Hart, was the Best Playing Pony.
With so many team entries across the Yorkshire Championship, the matches as ever were highly competitive with finalists on Sunday decided on goal difference. The tournament was umpired over the weekend led by Henry Browne.
The 0-2 Goal Final Teams: Summit (2): Hedley Aylott (1), Fede Gomez (-2), Milo Manton (0) & Bautista Funes (3)
Jodpur of Yorkshire (2): Oonagh Bagley (-1), Amy Sallabank (0), Cam Bagley (0) & Gareth Meikle (3)
The -1 to -4 Goal Final Teams: 512 (-1): S. Yorke Hadley (-1), Daisey Dixon (-1), Alice Baird (-1) & Tony Wesche (2)
Anglo Asian Mining (-1): Guido Basile (-1), Miriam Payne (-1), E.Allam / M. Manton (0) & Lenny Cunningham (1)
The -4 to -6 Goal Final Teams: FQC (-6): Judy Jackson (-2), Lucy Wilkinson (-2), Rachel Foster (-2) & Tony Wesche (2)
VetMedi UK (-4): Suzanne Hart (-2), James Haigh (-1), Charlotte Innes (-1) & Stave Radford (0)
The Capilla Cup in July was supported by a number of picnickers and spectators in the glorious Cambridge sunshine. In the 2 goal Final, Bolebec took a 7-4½ win against Zhivago. Bolebec showed some fantastic team play between Cata Lavinia and Juan Tamargo, with teammates Andrew Burke scoring a great field goal in the second chukka and Hugo Upton scoring their seventh goal in the final minutes. Zhivago put up a strong defence with a stunning field goal from Charlie Townsend and some quick runs at the front by Laura Shumiloff. The game being much closer than the score suggested. Gatta, owned by Charlie Townsend was chosen as Best Playing Pony.
Two home teams met in the 0 Goal Final. Cambridge Protein Works put up a good fight with several runs at goal from Jim Huntington and Pippa Outtridge, supported by consistent accurate long forward passes from Francis Molyneux. Mansfield Advisors’ captain Freddy Farqhuarson kept control of the game, assisted by strong marking by Geoff De Souza and with some notable runs by Graham Warning on his Best Playing Pony Ellie. Mansfield reliability converting their runs into goals saw them take the win 5-1½. 15-year-old Ellie was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.
On Saturday 22 July, Cedar Polo Team secured The Mar del Plata Trophy against Mayura Polo Team with a 6-4 win. Bilal Shaykh was awarded the Most Valuable Player prize of a framed original polo drawing.
On Saturday 29 July The Aiglon College Challenge Trophy was won by Scarlett McCoy’s Mayura Polo Team who defeated Galaxia Polo Team 8-5½ after soaring ahead in the last two chukkas.
On Sunday 30 July, The Don Carlos de La Serna Memorial Cup Final saw Galaxia Polo Team secure a narrow 6-5½ thanks to a near side shot, then two taps into the goal from Georgy Armitage in the Final against Mountgerald.
Over the weekend 5 – 6 August, the Club played for the 1947, three handled Saunders Davis Cup. Congratulations to Abercairny Polo Team, who flew ahead in each of their matches winning 4-1 against Cedar Polo Team and then 5-½ against Bisley Polo Team.
The team work in the Abercairny Polo Team was their strength, Tariq dag Khan at the back, Georgy Armitage and Georgina Brittain backing each other up, the other teams were just not quick enough to stop the goals being converted by all the Abercairny players. Number 1 Andy Dorrine, visiting from
Belgium, won the Most Valuable Player award in the Final.
On Saturday 12 August, Cedar Polo Team secured The Carlitos Polo Tournament with an 8-2½ win against Team Tonic. The following day, Sunday 13 August, The Cedar Polo Tournament Final was played between Grand Cru and Cedar Polo Team and regulation time ended with a 5-5. Penalties also finished with an equal score so the two team captains and the umpire decided the win by the toss of a coin. A very competitive game on both sides with the Cedar Polo Team eventual winners. Dominic Cunningham received the Most Valuable Player prize and also his pony Muneca was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.
On Saturday 22 July, Cowdray Vikings and Bad Boys Polo Team battled it out in The 1921 Cup Final. Cowdray Vikings took an early lead and by the end of the second chukka, held a three goal lead which Bad Boys Polo Team were unable to close in the remaining chukkas. The winning goal was scored by the Hon. Mrs Lila Pearson for Cowdray Vikings handing the team in orange the win at 6-3. Impress, owned and played by Marcus Cork, received the Best Playing Pony rug.
The 1921 Cup Final Teams:
Cowdray Vikings (8): Lila Pearson (0), George Pearson (2), Marcus Cork (3) & Nick Clague (3) Bad Boys Polo Team (8): Mathieu Van Delden Jnr (0), Mathieu Van Delden (0), Terence Lent (4) & Ollie Cork (4)
Congratulations to Malcolm Ford’s Team Tonic (Georgina Brittain, Jonathan Gregory, Malcolm Ford and Tariq Dag Khan) who won The Sandhurst Cup Final on Saturday 19 August, originally played for against the Sandhurst cadets on the Sandhurst Polo Field and still played for at White Waltham Polo Club in memory of their old friends at the Sandhurst Military Academy.
On Sunday 20 August, Dominic Cunningham won The Carpe Diem Polo Tournament, with his Carpe Diem Polo Team (Bilal Shaykh, Scarlett McCoy, and Sarah Grant). They played well against Team Tonic and Galaxia Polo Team to win the Final on Sunday afternoon.
The Chairman’s Cup Final saw an undefeated Del Rancho/Glen Farm, with eight time Chairman’s Cup title holder David Strouss in the line-up, versus Kingswood/Longmeadow who had been narrowly defeated by their fellow finalists in the preliminary games.
The opening minutes of the Final saw the offensive talents of Nachi Viana secure Del Rancho/Glen Farm an early 3-1 lead and by half-time this had been increased to an 8-3 advantage.
Following a goal from Carl Scherer to open the second half for Del Rancho/Glen Farm, an unfortunate injury to Kingswood/ Longmeadow’s lone scorer Rulo Trotz brought Segundo Caimi into the game as a substitute, who immediately made his mark and initiated a three goal run to bring Kingswood/Longmeadow back within three goals of their opponents. Going head-to-head with Viana, the two sharpshooters swapped scores, Viana taking the advantage hitting two from the field. Despite a final drive from Federico Wulff, ultimately Del Rancho/Glen Farm’s ability to control the pace sealed the 11-8 victory.
The Chairman’s Cup Final Teams: Del Rancho/Glen Farm: Sam Clemens, David Strouss, Carl ‘CB’ Scherer & Ignacio ‘Nachi’ Viana Kingswood/Longmeadow: Ariadne ‘Ari’ Dogani, Reed ‘Parker’ Miller, Federico Wulff, Ernesto ‘Rulo’ Trotz & Segundo Caimi (substitute)
Congratulations to Los Chinos, winners of The Jack Williams Tournament which saw six teams up to four goals competing. The Final on Saturday 12 August was between Los Chinos and Maitland which Los Chinos secured, 5-3.
The Jack Williams Tournament Final Teams: Los Chinos (4): Alison Clark (-1), Charlotte Pykett (0), Tom Beim (4) & Oscar Power (1)
Maitland (4): Marco Devence (-1), Lorna Broughton (0), Mikey Howe (4) & John Watson (1)
The rain did not dampen spirits as the Mad Lemons defeated Conosco 8-6 on The Queen’s Ground to secure The Social Cup on Sunday 30 July. Laguna, played by Hissam Hyder, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony and Simon Franc was named Most Valuable Player.
Congratulations to Bagber House, winners of The Vaux Park No Kidding Championship sponsored by Kicking Goat Cider, who defeated Propero in the Final on Sunday 9 July. Cam Ellis’ Ferrari was chosen as Best Playing Pony.
On Saturday 19 August, Eleven narrowly defeated Mad Dogs in The Cottington Cup Final by half a goal, 5½-5, to take the win. Oli Fanshawe was named Most Valuable Player and Bayita, played by Logan Anderson, received the Best Playing Pony rug.
Ham’s Inter-Club match for The Edward Tauchert Bowl saw several regulars take to the field for a six chukka round robin format with teams including Quadriga, Jet Set and Tigerstream. In the opening two chukkas, Martin Hay of Quadriga matched Will Healey’s two goals for Jet Set. Quadriga continued for the next two chukkas against Tigerstream, where Martin Hay and James Holloway scored two goals each, firmly positioning Quadriga in the competition. Goal differences potentially played a role as Jet Set and Tigerstream entered the field for chukkas five and six. The tournament concluded with Katherine Smithwick and Will Healey scoring for Jet Set, while Mark Hallam converted the only goal for Tigerstream, who were considered the weaker team on paper. Despite their half goal handicap advantage, Tigerstream finished third, with Jet Set as the runners-up and Quadriga taking home the silver.
Congratulations to Tiger Stream, who secured The Richmond Park Cup with a nailbiting Final score of 6-5½ and also to Los
Cariocas who secured The Argentine Cup with their 6-5 win against Mavericks.
On Sunday 6 August, The Quatros Amigos Trophy saw a father vs son Final between Marcus (Mavericks) and Seb Hancock (Jet Set). Jet Set kicked off the first chukka, but Mavericks remained within striking distance and going into the second chukka Marcus Hancock pushed his team ahead with a 60 yard penalty conversion. The action intensified in the third chukka and
winners of the American tournament
the fourth chukka saw Seb Hancock claim another goal for Jet Set, but Martin Hay and Marcus Hancock collaborated effectively to tip the balance in their favour and Mavericks won the Final with a narrow score of 6½-6.
Later in the day, Hollywood, Student Beehive and Tigerstream competed in a six chukka round robin tournament, which after all the scores had been added up and handicaps taken into account, resulted in a win for Student Beehive.
On Sunday 13 August, Brookshire Polo and BSI Polo Team went head-to-head in The Farmers & Merchants Bank Silver Cup Final at Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club in Carpinteria, California. Brookshire dominated the first half, scoring six goals to BenSoleimani.com’s one, allowing them a steady lead going into half-time. However, BenSoleimani.com came out fighting in the second half and managed to close the gap down to just three goals by the end of the fifth chukka. Unfortunately, Brookshire broke BenSoleimani.com’s goal scoring streak and managed to win the match, 10-7. Peke Gonzalez was named Most Valuable Player and he also took home the Best Playing Pony prize for 5.
The Farmers & Merchants Bank Silver Cup Final Teams: Brookshire Polo (19): Scott Wood (0), Peke Gonzalez (7), Paquito de Narvaez (4) & Tomas Panelo (8) BSI Polo Team (20): Ben Soleimani (0), Keko Magrini (5), Rodrigo de Andrade (8) & Ignacio Laprida (7)
The Lincolnshire based Club has begun hosting tournaments this season and their second tournament will take place over 23 – 24 September as an end of season tournament with a DartFest party on the Saturday night. The tournament will comprise of 4 teams in the lower -2, and 4 in the upper 2 goal, with over 150 guests expected to attend the party. For team entries email club@dartbloodstockpolo.com
The Friday and Saturday qualifiers for The Kicking Goat 2 Goal saw wins for Pinpoint and Longdole against Soanza in the round robin tournament.
The Final held on Sunday 13 August finally saw a dry morning to play. A very close game between Longdole and Pinpoint saw the scores tied at half-time, but with goals from Mikey Howe, Pinpoint secured the win 6½-3. Kicking Goat Cider supplied all the prizes for each match.
The Kicking Goat 2 Goal Final Teams: Longdole (2): Will Blanchard (-1), Tom Mayfield (0), Mark Hayden-Kellard (1) & Jack Aldridge (2) Pinpoint (1): Josh Mannings (-2), Oliver Bruce (-2), John Watson (1) & Mikey Howe (4)
M.A.G. Polo held off NetJets to secure The Craig Sakin Memorial on Sunday 16 July at McClure River Ranch. The two day tournament saw five teams competing for the title, but in the end M.A.G. Polo secured an 8-7 win to take top spot; with four goals in the Final, Nic Roldan was named Most Valuable Player and Chancho Va, owned and played by Hilario Figueras, was Best Playing Pony.
On Sunday 23 July, NetJets defeated ST8 in The Basalt Handicap with an 11-8 victory. Most Valuable Player, Nic Roldan
commented, “It was a good game, we had a really great team this weekend. It was a fun team, too. I’ve played with Ale, Nacho and Marc before. We knew we had a good
The Club’s five boarded grounds are perfect for spectators
Cheshire Polo Club’s life began as a combination of three polo clubs –Manchester, Bowdon and Wirral – and the Club as we know it today began in 1951 and continues the legacy of playing polo in the north west. Today Cheshire has 65 playing Members, five boarded grounds including two which have been laser levelled, some of the best parties and provides a fantastic environment for young players, such as Charlie Walton, Henry Smith and Will Padden, to start their polo careers.
What year was the Club founded & by who?
Cheshire Polo Club was formed as a merging of three clubs – Manchester, Bowdon and Wirral.
Manchester Polo Club, by far the most senior of the three original clubs, was founded in 1872 by the Cholmondeley family and Lord Rocksavage, afterwards 5th Marquess of Cholmondeley (1883 – 1968) became a 9 goal player. By 1877 the Club had suffered a lapse, but the 18th Hussars reformed it as Manchester Garrison Polo Club, based on Sir Humphrey de Trafford’s estate at Trafford Park, Manchester. In the 1880s it dropped the military connection from its title but remained at Trafford Park. Trafford Park was sold in 1897 but Manchester Polo Club held on, as a neighbour of Manchester United Football
Club, until 1906, when it moved to a rented site at Ashley. Bowdon Polo Club, founded near Altrincham in 1891, merged with Manchester, and Ashley became the Club’s base until 1939.
Club Stats
During this time Wirral Polo Club had been founded at Clatterbridge in 1885 and moved four years later to Hooton Park, Cheshire. Wirral Polo Club was home to the Lockett brothers (George, Robert and Vivian), with Colonel Vivian
Club Address: Ground Nos. 2/3/4 at Lonstone Lane, Forest Road, Tarporley, Cheshire CW6 9ES. Grounds Nos. 1 & 1A Coach Road, Little Budworth, Tarporley, Cheshire CW6 9DT
Polo Manager Name & Contact: Henry Smith (07718 273893). Contact: Polo Secretary, The Polo Office, Moorhen, Church Street, Malpas, Cheshire SY14 7FG (01948 861020).
Polo School and Pony Hire: J.F. Polo Academy
Lockett, 17/21 Lancers, becoming one of the first British 10 goalers in 1913. A.F. Crewdson played a crucial role in reviving Wirral Polo Club after the First World War and despite the austerity of life after World War Two, the Club emerged in 1951 with five boarded grounds and over 60 playing Members, similar to its current form. From 2005 to 2011 the Club grew under the chairmanship of David Irlam, attracting many players and visitors from around the world, hosting around 30 tournaments each season including The Wirral Ladies and the Victor Ludorum National 4 Goal Junior County Cup. The current Chairman, Martin Kidd has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to improve the facilities at the Club and encourage new Members to join both on the playing and social side and the Cheshire parties have a fun reputation.
2023 season highlights?
The National 4 Goal V.L. Tournament is now part of the National 4 Goal Super League sponsored by Hatfields Liverpool.
What are the Club’s recent improvements?
The Clubhouse has been refurbished with new decking supplied by Don Gibbs and new pony lines are in the process of being established with the help of an HPA Grant.
What are the Club’s plans for the future?
To try and bring in new patrons, players and social Members and introduce more play days and encourage more Junior Members.
Club alumni you would like to spotlight?
We bring on young players who when they turn professional go onto other clubs to make a living from polo. In the last few years Charlie Walton, Henry Smith and Will Padden have all played at other clubs in the south of England. Cristian Chaves has played at Cheshire for many years with his patron Katie Holland and Don Gibbs has come to the fore winning the 4 Goal Victor Ludorum for the last
two years. Lucy Coddington has had a very successful career in ladies’ polo, winning many prestigious tournaments all over the world. Our junior players always do well when playing away in the Pony Club Championships and HPA junior tournaments each year. A special mention to our playing patrons, without whom we could not exist.
Anything else readers should know about the Club? The playing surfaces at Cheshire Polo Club are some of the best in the country, all our grounds are based on sand and the two tournament grounds are both laser levelled.
Does the Club specialise in a certain area of polo?
Although the Club usually holds low goal tournaments every weekend, we do have regular higher handicap tournaments such as 4 goal, 6 goal and maybe 8 goal occasionally.
Shrewsbury Polo Club held their first ever ladies tournament over 29 –30 July, which saw four teams battling it out in a very supportive and friendly way to win The Evans Lamsley Cup.
Sunday started with the Subsidiary Final between Goaldiggas and Roc Chicks, where the team from Cheshire put in a great performance to take third place. The Final between Bonematters and Evans Lamsley
was a very tough, close fought match that went down to the wire, seeing Bonematters run out winners 3-2½ thanks to a goal by Jess Hinaman in the dying seconds of the fourth chukka. Best Playing Pony went to Midge, a six-year-old Gelding owned by Glynn and Jen Henderson and played by Jen Henderson.
Due to Storm Antoni, the two day tournament had to be reduced to just one day for the 4 and 8 goal matches.
The 8 goal match saw Silver Leys Ladies vs Rutland Ladies go head-to-head. The Silver Leys Ladies were well acquainted with each other’s plays and combined the big, consistent hits of Kate Cook and Charlene Goudkhil, with the speed and hard riding of Amber Zakrewski and Charley Tiller. The Rutland team meanwhile had the Speed mother and daughter combo, the up-and-coming Amy Sallabank and ultrareliable Sam Banks.
With many missed goals and the ball being put just wide, Rutland only registered one field goal on the board, alongside the 1½ goal they received in handicap, so were not quite able to capitalise on the possession they had during the match. Meanwhile, Silver Leys converted their penalty opportunities with Charlene Goudkhil, not long back from ‘Polo Maternity leave’ steadfast in her penalty taking, taking the score line well out of Rutland’s reach in the last chukka. Post-match, the teams convened to the Clubhouse to have a rather early Champagne cream tea before midday (!),
Goudkhil was named Most Valuable Player and Best Playing Pony was awarded to four-year-old Muffin made and played by Amy Sallabank.
The 4 goal teams had six players each, with lots of people sharing to get a slice of the action.
It was a local battle between two Rutland teams. Newly formed Carbon Forestry (who spent weeks working very hard on the ground aerating it in June) were a strong 3 goal team up against well known WIP Ladies team Knightmares, who fielded a 4 goal team. This match saw three players making their competitive playing debut in tournament polo. The Knightmares scored a quick couple of goals in the first chukka to claw back what they had conceded in handicap. However, the very strong and slightly faster Carbon Forestry team were unstoppable flying up and down scoring goals and quickly shutting down any Knightmares
attacks with the hard riding Jasmine Speed, Amy Sallabank, Immy Shields and Charlotte Ayliff, not to forget the hugely dependable Polly Gillies Shields ready as ever to keep the back door firmly shut! Giving team Carbon Forestry a resounding 5½-4 win. Again the Ladies retired to the Clubhouse for more Champagne Cream teas (this time at a more conventional tea time!)
Most Valuable Player was awarded to Nicola Parry for showing great strength in her field plays and playing excellently off her 1 goal handicap. Best Playing Pony was awarded to the well loved Rutland based pony Bertie, owned and played by Claire Durrant. Bertie is a 19 year Argentine super star.
The WIP Ladies Tournament Teams:
8 Goal:
Silver Leys Ladies (8): Charley Tiller (1), Kate Cook (3), Amber Zakrewski (2) & Charlene Goudkil (3)
Rutland Ladies (6): Jasmine Speed (0), Amy Sallabank (2), Sam Banks (2) & Camilla Speed (2)
4 Goal:
Carbon Forestry (3): Charlotte Ayliffe/ Jasmine Speed (0), Nicola Parry (1), Amy Sallabank (2) & Polly Shields/ Immy Shields (0)
Knightmares (4): Lesley Maxfield Gullett/ Hunter Finch (0), Claire Durrant (1), Camilla Speed/Linda McCullough (2) & Hannah Woodward (1)
Flying Cow Polo Club located in Wellington, Florida, has announced the Women of Wellington (WOW), a medium goal polo league offering more options to female players to compete in organised polo in Wellington. WOW will provide playing opportunities and a platform to promote amateur and professional women’s players to encourage greater participation in the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship. Flying Cow Polo Club will host multiple 10 to 14 goal USPA Women’s events in January –April 2024 and the WOW schedule will not conflict with the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship.
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This was the ninth edition of The Ladies Polo Cup and saw five teams, up to 14 goals, compete and Bar du Soleil faced an undefeated Augustinus Bader in The Ladies Polo Cup-Diane Barriere Final at Deauville International Polo Club and with nine goaler Lia Salvo going up against 2022 Women’s Argentine Open finalist, Milagros Sanchez, the crowds were in for a fantastic display of ladies’ polo. After a tense start to the match, it took until the middle of the second chukka for Anais Rezkallah, later named Most Valuable Player, to open the scoring for Bar du Soleil. The action intensified in the third chukka as both teams matched each other shot for shot and Megan Manubay took the lead for Augustinus Bader. The fourth chukka saw Paloma Lauro level the scores at 3-3 and it looked like the Final would be pushed into over-time, but Lia Salvo scored the winning goal with just 17 seconds remaining to take a 4-3 win for Augustinus Bader. This win also meant Augustinus Bader retained their 2022 title in The Ladies Polo Cup-Diane Barriere, with Lia Salvo securing her third title (2018, 2022 and 2023).
Augustinus Bader (14)
Paloma Lauro (2)
Aurelie Molitor (1)
Anais Rezkallah (2)
Lía Salvo (9)
Bar du Soleil (13)
Megan Manubay (0)
Leah Kawamoto (2)
Polina Nazarova (4)
Milagros Sanchez (7)
Chukka scores: 0-0, 0-1, 2-3, 4-3 to Augustinus Bader
On Sunday 23 July, Beaufort Polo Club and Cirencester Park Polo Club battled it out in The MacWet Junior Beaufort Cup which after four chukkas saw the home side, Beaufort Polo Club, secure a 5-3 win. Hari Dhillon was chosen as the Most Valuable Player. On Wednesday 26 July, The Beaufort Ladies International saw Australasia go head-to-head with team UK in a four chukka match. Despite the heavy downpours, the teams stayed in a tight draw for the first three chukkas and the win was up for grabs, but in the
end it was team UK who took the win with a golden goal in the final moments, securing a 3-2 win.
The MacWet Junior Beaufort Cup Teams: Beaufort Polo Club (2): Charlie Hodges (-1), Harry Wood (-2), Kaspar Budd (0) & Luke Tomlinson (5) Cirencester Park Polo Club (3): Hari Dhillon (0), Theo Fagan (0), Jonty Hodges (-2) & Satnam Dhillon (5)
International real estate agents, Prestige & Village Group have offered an opportunity for four under 15 players to train and play at Desert Palm Polo Club in Dubai in February 2024 for one week’s coaching and polo experience. This will culminate with a test match for The Prestige & Village Youth Dubai Cup, featuring the four players against Desert Palm’s Junior Team. The trip of a lifetime will be heavily subsidised by Prestige & Village who worked together with Hertfordshire Polo Academy and The Pony Club to select the four youth polo players. Congratulations to Millie Hunter, Monty Threadgold, Lulu Saunders and Mathias Maldonado on being selected.
Pony Club Polo, under the umbrella of the Pony Club, is a remarkable organisation, testament to the fine tradition of volunteering in this country. Without an army of people prepared to organise taster days, training, tournaments and camps, and the Committee who give up their time, it simply wouldn’t happen, and we wouldn’t have the reach outside polo that we have. So, a huge thank you on behalf of the players to those people.
We are grateful to the HPA Development Committee and Park Place for putting in place a generous grant towards the cost of the Championships at Cowdray Park, and for the grants from the Polo Charity and the Martin Treves Scheme. We are grateful to the clubs and other people and organisations which give us free or discounted access to facilities and those companies which offer prizes and awards. We thank all these
people and organisations for their continued confidence in what we do in Pony Club Polo. We have to thank both Cowdray Park Polo Club and the Cowdray Estate for their help in staging the Championships – their expertise in event management, and willingness to find solutions to every problem, is extremely helpful. Through a huge amount of very detailed work, led by Bethan Hitchman, we have built a successful template for the event. Most people don’t see Event Management Plans, Risk Assessments, Budgets, Equipment orders, etc, but they are all there. This year we entertained the Master Loriner who presented the Loriner teams with medals. The maximum number of teams possible to host at Cowdray entered this year, so if the expansion continues, there will be genuine qualification next year. While this will lead to some disappointment, we hope it will drive the standards up.
The Pony Club again ran the Hipwood competition for Under 14 players in HPA match format. The matches took place in July under the careful watch of Jilly Emerson who juggled grounds, players and teams to run a very successful competition, and we held the Finals on what is now the first day of the Championships at Cowdray Park Polo Club. Looking at the general picture of youth polo, the HPA Development Committee have
instituted the Professional Development Pathway for young players and initial assessments are well under way.
Pony Club Centres now play Pony Club Polo as well as the traditional Branches. There are a number of individuals who have played from Centres this year, and Hertfordshire Polo Academy entered four teams. Hertfordshire also found generous sponsorship from Prestige & Village to send a team to Dubai Polo Club during February half term next year for training and competition! We congratulate the four players selected for that exciting opportunity: Millie Hunter, Monty Threadgold, Lulu Saunders and Matias Maldonado.
I am retiring as Chairman at the end of the season after ten years. I have enjoyed it and, in spite of the obvious challenges during that time, I think Pony Club Polo is going in the right direction. In fact, I think it will go on for ever! Thank you to the many people who have supported me, especially the Committee for most of my time: Bev Nicholls, Jilly Emerson,
Handicap limit: Minimum handicap of 0 goals, no maximum
Player age limit: Under 21-years-old on 1 January of the current year
Height limit of pony: No restriction
Type of pony: Polo ponies
Section Manager: Justin Stanhope-White
Justin Stanhope-White, Gannon Section Manager, reviews this year’s Final: “This year we saw four teams competing in Gannon; Cowdray playing off four goals Beaufort off three goals, South Oxfordshire Hunt South (SOHS) off two goals, and the Old Surrey & Burstow (OS&B), playing off 0 goals.
“All four teams travelled to Cowdray for the Championships, with two Semi Finals being played on Friday on Lawns Three. Cowdray, in the first Semi Finals ran out the winners against OS&B with Beaufort beating SOHS to take their place in the Gannon Final played on the Sunday on Lawns Two.
“Before the Gannon Final we were treated to an excellent fast paced game for The Jaguar Trophy between SOHS and
Justin Stanhope White, Bethan Hitchman, Chris Eaton, Christopher Price and Jenny Blake-Thomas, but first and foremost to Joanna (Whittington) who provided wise
OS&B. Both teams played attacking end to end polo with notable performances from Hector Rogberg and Matias Maldonado. SOHS came out the eventual winners and were the recipients of The Jaguar Trophy 2023.
“The much-anticipated Gannon Final, for The Daily Telegraph Trophy, was played after the parade on Lawns Two. Cowdray were looking to make it three wins in a row and Beaufort were looking to win their first Gannon final since 2017. Cowdray were the first to score with Rufus Uloth slotting a goal in from open play. This goal was soon cancelled out by an excellent penalty taken by Robbie Slatter leaving the score one to one and a half at the end of the first chukka.
“The tempo upped considerably in the second chukka as the teams settled into their game with Will Millard taking control and dribbling the ball in at considerable pace to score Cowdray’s second goal. Just before the end of the chukka Will Millard added to his tally with a superbly taken penalty, leaving the score 4-1½ in favour of Cowdray at halftime. Chukka three was again fast paced with Rufus Uloth scoring at the end of the
words and insight, and cut off some of my dafter ideas before they saw the light of day!
Enjoy your polo!
chukka increasing Cowdray’s score to 5-1½. In the fourth chukka Cowdray dominated with Will Millard aiming a long-angled shot into goal, 6-1½, and Rufus Uloth scoring a superb goal at the end of the match seeing Cowdray run out winners by 7-1½.
“The Gannon Most Valuable Player was awarded to Rufus Uloth, Cowdray Hunt. Best Playing Pony went to Neveda played by Mack McCaffrey, Cowdray Hunt.”
Handicap limit: Qualifying handicap of -2 goals
Player age limit: Under 21-years-old on 1 January of the current year
Height limit of pony: No restriction
Type of pony: Polo ponies
Section Manager: Bethan Hitchman
Bethan Hitchman, Section Manager for Langford looks back at the results: “With four Langford teams again this year, plus some subs, we ran one division for the Langford League Trophy at the qualifiers and Friday of Cowdray, resulting in a high standard of play and some unexpected results. Having had the hottest June on record, we could be forgiven for worrying about sun baked grounds, as last year, but July brought rain – and plenty of it! Unfortunately, as a result, we lost the qualifier at Black Bears but with less teams we were still able to conclude the league, resulting in plenty of polo for all. We were incredibly grateful that Cirencester and Longdole allowed us to run as both grounds had had plenty of rain!
“The Langford teams, once again, came from far and wide, from all corners of the country and Thom Bell came down from Scotland twice, with an artic full of ponies, so his children could play Pony Club Polo. Hertfordshire Polo Academy entered a team this year for the first time and it is very exciting to watch members from this Pony Club Polo Centre play with such team spirit and maturity. With the usual unexpected injuries and unavoidable commitments, we were especially grateful that George Copcutt cut short his trip to Boardmasters
Handicap limit: 0
Player age limit: 12-years-old and over, but under 16 on 1 January of the current year
Height limit of pony: No restriction
Type of pony: Polo ponies
Section Manager: Christopher Price
Christopher Price, the Loriner Section Manager reviews the Section’s season: “The season began with a few teams playing in the friendly tournaments that took place before the qualifiers began.
“For the qualifiers and the Loriner League there were nine teams: Hampshire Hunt, Beaufort, RA/West Hants, Cotswold, New Forest, South Dorset, Old Berkshire, Woodland and Scotland. Unfortunately, all teams were not able to play as many matches as originally planned because of the cancellation of the Black Bears qualifier due to the inclement weather. Thus, some teams found they played more games than others. The result was therefore decided on an average of the number of points gained by
to step in for the Division 2 Final on Sunday at Cowdray. As always, the unsung heroes in Pony Club Polo are the Branch/Team Managers and parents and they worked tirelessly to make sure the children had full teams and lots of polo.
“The Langford league went right to the wire with SOHS running out the winners of The Langford Plate. They were a very disciplined, well mounted team who improved over the 3 days of competition and it was good to see such a thoroughly deserved result. The boys played well as a team, captained with great maturity and ability by Hector Rogberg and supported admirably by both parents and coaches.
“At Cowdray, after the first day, and from the league results, the Semi Final fixture was decided. The SOHS and OS&B ran out the winners and went forward to play their Division 1 Final for The Jack Gannon Trophy on Lawns 2 on Sunday. The Cotswold and Hertfordshire Polo Academy played off in Division 2 for The Martin Trotter Trophy. All the teams provided great entertainment with fast, slick polo with a win for the very young team from the OS&B in Division 1 and a win for the Cotswold team in Division 2.
“Individual honours this year were numerous in Langford: Ed Raybould won The Andrew Older Memorial Trophy for the Most Promising Langford Player; Ava Greenland won The Catherine Yeates Trophy with her impressive gamesmanship and commitment; George Thome was the well-deserved recipient of The SATS Saddle as Player of the Year – kindly donated by SATS, this saddle was given to George for his impressive all-round ability and for being a superb team player and supporter
of Pony Club Polo. A new Member to Pony Club Polo this year, Atticus Burnett, who arranged all his own membership and polo, travelled from Cheshire and won The Llewellyn Palmer trophy for his outstanding care of his ponies and horsemanship. If there had been an award for dedication and number of chukkas played, it would have gone to Mati Maldonaldo for playing across two sections and always being prepared to step in when needed. He was also very excitingly selected, with three other children, to represent the Pony Club on a polo training and tournament trip to Dubai in 2024, an opportunity very generously supported by Prestige & Village.
“There are too many ‘thank yous’ to mention everybody but you know who you are and I am so grateful for all the time and effort that everybody puts in to make Langford happen!”
each team divided by the number of games played. Both Scotland and New Forest came out with highest average but Scotland won based on their scoring more goals; by one!
“At the Championships, Woodland and Scotland were unable to play, but three members of the Scotland team formed a Heythrop team, thus making eight teams. Each team played each other once over the three days. There were some very close and eagerly played games with RA/West Hants
becoming the eventual winners in a close fought battle with the Old Berkshire for the Loriner Trophy, and Heythrop winning the Hillingdon Hall Trophy beating South Dorset.
“There is no doubt that standard of polo of all players improved hugely throughout the qualifiers and the Championships. Above all, the spirit of play, the camaraderie among all the teams and players, and their sportsmanship set a brilliant example for Pony Club polo. Congratulations must go to all players.”
Player age limit: Under 15-years-old on 1 January of the current year
Height limit of pony: No restriction
Type of pony: Polo ponies
Section Manager: Jo Whittington
Surtees Section Manager, Joanna Whittington, reviews the Section results: “Surtees, U15 on polo ponies, was again very popular this year. There were 15 teams that entered, which meant three divisions was possible and all were able to make a good competition.
“Some of the teams came out and enjoyed the friendlies at Vaux, Beaufort/ Frampton and Oxford Polo Clubs. Vaux Park Polo Club was also a training day followed by a tournament with most camping for the two days, it was great fun and enjoyed by all! Thank you so much to all those families who gave their grounds, their time and to the organisers for putting it on.
“Last year we had a heatwave to deal with, this year it was monsoon weather the week of the Black Bears tournament, the first qualifier, which very sadly had to be
cancelled. However, drying winds meant Cirencester and Longdole tournaments were able to go ahead, thank you to both clubs! And were very hotly contested by all the teams, thrilled to be back playing again. Six teams fought out Division 1 with Beaufort Blue playing the Final against OBH, which was a 1-0 win for the Beaufort. The Young Cowdray team won Division 2, Cotswold Red were second, and Berkeley Green beat the Berkeley Yellow to win Division 3.
At Longdole with some teams moving up and down, the Beaufort Blue again got to the Final of Division 1, this time against the Royal Artillery which they won on a run down as both teams gave their all to finish in a 0-0 draw. One of the new teams from the Hertfordshire Polo Academy, the boys team, won Division 2, and Berkeley Green again won Division 3.
“With some of the teams enjoying some excellent polo and a great fun day at Tedworth Park on the Monday before Cowdray, thank you so much again to The Polo Club and the organisers, we then moved on to Cowdray, for another brilliant Cowdray weekend!
“The Friday’s tournament was the
Player age limit: 9-years-old and over, but under 14 on 1 January of the current year
Height limit of pony: 14.2hh
Type of pony: No polo ponies allowed, should be all-round Pony Club ponies which have attended rallies
Section Manager: Chris Eaton
Chris Eaton, the Handley Cross Section Manager reflects on the Section’s success:
“Four teams battled it out over the qualifiers at Cirencester and Longdole, our third qualifier at Black Bears sadly had to be cancelled due to torrential rain. The teams played in one division, The Cotswold, Old Berkshire, Berkeley and the Royal Artillery.
“All four teams had matches at Cowdray on Friday and Saturday leaving the Old Berkshire and the Berkeley playing off for third and fourth position. After an exciting match on
Sunday morning, the Berkeley secured third position. The Cotswold and the Royal Artillery played off for first and second position on the main ground in front of a cheering audience it was an exciting match with the Cotswold coming out the winners.
“The Polo Times Best Playing Pony rug was awarded to Bibi ridden by Buster Combe of the Berkeley Pony Club. The Jambo Trophy was awarded to the Best Hunting/Polo Pony in Handley Cross and this was given to Warrior, ridden by Henry Whittington of the Royal Artillery Pony Club.
“Congratulations to all the teams, we look forward to seeing you all next year.
“If you have any questions regarding starting up polo in your area or about grants available, please contact me.”
decider for all divisions going through to the final two days of Cowdray. Thus Division 1 was four teams, all had consistently finished, with the odd blip, in the first four. Division 2 was seven teams, very hard to separate the teams, and Division 3 was three teams.
“After some very hard-fought chukkas, only the odd goal here and there, and a lot of adrenaline and excellent play, the Final of Division 1 was Beaufort Blue against the OBH, as it had been at Cirencester with the Beaufort Blue running out the winners. They fully deserved their win this year. The Royal Artillery were third and South Dorset fourth.
Division 2 was won by Beaufort Buff, an excellent result by them to beat the Cotswold Green who were another team always knocking on the door! The Cambridge were third and Berkeley Green fourth. Division 3 was won by Berkeley Yellow, with Hertfordshire Polo Academy girls second and Cotswold White third. All these teams were children playing in their first year of Pony Club Polo and how great to see the enjoyment and improvement in them all. The Young Telegraph award for the Most Promising U15 Player was awarded to Charlie Hodges from the Beaufort Blue team.”
Player age limit: 11-years-old and under
Height limit of pony: 13.2hh
Type of pony: No polo ponies allowed, should be all-round Pony Club ponies which have attended rallies
Section Manager: Jenny Blake Thomas
Jorrocks
Player age limit: 11-years-old and under
Height limit of pony: No restriction
Type of pony: Polo pony under control!
Section Manager: Jenny Blake Thomas
Jenny Blake Thomas reviews this year’s Jorrocks and Jorrocks on Polo Ponies
Section (JOPPS) results:
“Jorrocks and JOPPS matches were played on Lawns 4 during Friday and Saturday 11 –12 August, in mostly very pleasant sunshine, with just a few intervals of light showers and wind. All teams received some special prizes very kindly donated and presented by Anne Soerensen, SK Polo.
“Jorrocks Division 2 consisted of four teams playing three chukkas on the Friday against the other teams and a 1 to 4 order being obtained by Friday evening. On Saturday the two teams placed third and fourth and the two teams placed first and second played a three chukka Final against each other to obtain the final positions. OS & B and Berkeley Badgers played for third and fourth and RA and HH for first and second. The result was fourth Berkeley Badgers, third OS&B, second RA and the winners of The Pardy Cup were the HH team of Felix Darwin, Alice Cogan, Flora Darwin and Oscar Wilson-Smith.
“Jorrocks Division 1 consisted of three teams playing an American Tournament. Each team played a four chukka match against the other two teams over the two days.
There were some very close, hard fought matches but the Beaufort team consisting of Annalisa Tomlinson, Evelyn Brown, Bertie Wood and Devon Turner-Clarke were the winners of The Jorrocks Cup, Cotswold Red came second and Cotswold Green third.
“This was a section started in 2021, allowing Jorrocks aged children to compete on polo ponies rather than ‘fluffies’. This year we had seven teams playing divided into two divisions. Four teams in Division 2 and 3 teams in Division 1, both Sections playing the same format as for Jorrocks.
“JOPPS Division 2: On Saturday Beaufort Buff and HH were playing three chukkas against each other for third and fourth place and RA against Cotswold Green for first and second place. The result for this division was fourth Beaufort Buff, third Hampshire Hunt, second Royal Artilery and winners Cotswold Green who were presented with The Henderson Cup which has been very kindly donated by the Henderson family this year. The players for Cotswold Green were Delphi Dickens, Melba Fox, Mila Henderson and Lola Lucas.
“JOPPS Division 1: There were three teams playing for the Frank Rendell Cup and the Beaufort team of Annalisa Tomlinson, Rufus Tomlinson, Bertie Wood and Harry Wood, were the winners, second and third were Cotswold Red and Hertfordshire Polo Academy.
“The Jorrocks parade is always a highlight of the Cowdray Championships and although the wind blew, all ponies behaved themselves. Teams lined up on Lawns 3 to parade in front of the commentary box and for turnout inspection by myself and Charles Whittington. We awarded The Texaco Turnout trophy to the Berkeley Badgers who looked very smart with matching bandages, tapes, hats, and numnahs. They had impressed over the two days by turning up looking smart to all their matches.
“The Tic Tac trophy (Jorrocks player/ pony combination) was awarded by Sophie McPherson, whose family donated the
Jilly Emerson reviews this year’s Hipwood results:
“Eight teams entered the Hipwood tournament this year. Some teams, OS&B, Cowdray Hunt, Cottesmore Hunt and Oxford Polo School had entered teams before and it was nice this year to have teams from the Beaufort Hunt, Cotswold Hunt and the Dorset Polo School. “The teams were put into two leagues of four and the idea was for them to play three league matches over a period of three weeks and then the Semi Finals and Finals. However, the weather put a stop to this, but in the end all the teams were able to play three matches on grounds generously lent by the King Power, Dubai, Park Place and Monterosso high goal teams as well Cirencester Park Polo Club. Four teams then went to Cowdray
trophy, to Devon Turner-Clarke and his little grey pony Cassie (Jorrocks Division 1 Beaufort team)
“The cup for the most improved girl was presented to Melba Fox (Jorrocks Division 1 Cotswold Red team) and the Punk Trophy and Polo Times rug for best Jorrocks pony was presented by Richard Hine to Del Boy, played by Otillie Williams (Jorrocks Division 1 Cotswold Green team). Mrs. Veronica Thorneloe presented the Rupert Thorneloe Memorial Cup to Archie Hathaway-White from the Royal Artillery Jorrocks Division 2 team.
“The traditional hand stick prize for the Most Promising First Year Player was awarded this year to a player in the JOPPS section, Todd Nikkhah from Hertfordshire Polo Academy (JOPPS Division 1 team). The JOPPS Section also had a new award for MVP for his or her team and the winner was Felix Darwin from Hampshire Hunt (JOPPS Division 2 team).”
and played the Finals on the Thursday afternoon of the Championships. The Finals between the Cottesmore Hunt and the OS&B was a very hard fought match with both teams playing really good polo. In an extra chukka the Cottesmore Hunt ran out the winners and received The Smail Cup presented to them by Julian Hipwood. In the Subsidiary Finals the Cowdray Hunt defeated the Cotswold Hunt to win the Emerson Tankard.”
The Most Promising First Year JOPPS Player, Todd Nikkhah (Hertfordshire Polo Academy JOPPS 1) Cowdray, winners of the Subsidiary Final – The Emerson Tankard, with Julian Hipwood Cottesmore, winners of Hipwood –The Smail Cup, with Julian HipwoodCassie Bibi
Height: 13.3hh
Age: 28-years-old
Colour: Grey
Sex: Mare
Owned and played by: Owned by Suzannah Turk and played by Buster Combe
Height: 11.1hh
Age: 20-years-old
Colour: Grey
Sex: Mare
Owned and played by: Devon TurnerClarke (Beaufort)
Tournament: The Tic Tac Trophy for The Jorrocks Player/Pony Combination
How long have you had her? We have had Cassie for 5 years and they do all sorts of fun activities together.
What are her strengths? Cassie may be small but is mighty!
How has she gone this season? She had never played polo before we had her, but she really loves it, this season has been really good fun and may be my last with her as my brother will be riding her more, we shall see.
What are your plans for her in the future? Cassie is a very good pony and I enjoy looking after her and having lots of fun and giggles together.
Award: The Polo Times Best Playing Pony Handley Cross
Where is she from/breeding? Bibi is a Connemara.
How long have you had her? She is owned by Suzannah Turk and played Pony Club Polo with her daughter Rosanna as well as others. She has been with the Coombes for two years playing initially by Thalia Coombe and now with Buster Coombe.
What are her strengths? Polo, jump offs, hunting – she excels at all asked of her.
How has she gone this season? Very well – she has done residential Pony Club Camp, hunted and played polo.
What are your plans for her in the future? To carry on with all Pony Club disciplines as she’s good at them all. Honestly the hands down Pony Club all-rounder.
Does she have any special quirks? She has no special quirks that I’m aware of. Bibi always wants to please and works hard to achieve what is asked of her.
Describe her in three words? Honest, brave, strong.
Where is he from/breeding? He is a small Connemara.
How long have you had him? Five years, as my older brother had him before me.
What are his strengths? He is sensitive and really fast, with an amazing movement that makes him easy to hit off.
What are your plans for him in the future? Given that he is 28, I’m planning to play Handley Cross on him next year, then retire him to my little sister to continue his show jumping and hunting as he loves anything to do with jumps.
Height: 12.3hh
Age: 28-years-old
Colour: Grey
Sex: Gelding
Owned and played by: Owned by Mack McCaffery and played by Ottilie Williams
Award: The Punk Trophy for Polo Times Best Jorrocks Pony
Neveda
How has he gone this season? He has been absolutely brilliant throughout the whole season.
Has he won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? He must have won loads before, but this is my first with him.
Where is she from/breeding? Alan Kent found her for us and she was previously kept at Ham Yard, we believe she was brought over from Argentina few years before that.
How long have you had her? We bought her in June 2022.
Does he have any special quirks? He rears when he gets nervous or excited, which is quite funny because he has done everything equestrian a hundred times and still freaks out!
Describe him in three words? Competitive, fast, brave.
Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? Not with us.
What are your plans for her in the future? I will carry on playing her for the time being, at least through the 2024 season.
Height: 14.3hh
Age: 14-years-old
Colour: Grey
Sex: Mare
Owned and played by: Mack McCaffery
Award: The Polo Times Best Playing Pony Gannon
Warrior
Height: 14hh
Age: 21-years-old
Colour: Appaloosa
Sex: Gelding
Owned and played by: Henry Whittington (Royal Artillery)
Award: The Jambo Trophy for the Best Hunting & HX Polo Pony/Player Combination
Where is he from/breeding? No idea! Although he did spend a few years in Perthshire with a Viscountess, then moved to Inverness, and at another point was owned and played by Rupert Uloth and family.
What are her strengths? She accelerates quickly and is fast for her size and very agile and stops and turns quickly, she also has a nice mouth.
How has she gone this season? She is going well and has really helped my game progress.
Does she have any special quirks? Not really.
Describe her in three words? Easy, fast, agile.
How long have you had him? Three years.
What are his strengths? I play him in the Handley Cross section of Pony Club, which is specifically for non-polo ponies which do other things. I have taken him to Pony Club Camp twice and hunted two seasons on him with the Royal Artillery Foxhounds. He is a great platform to hit from in polo, very powerful in the ride-off, and holds a strong line on the hunting field!
How has he gone this season? Amazing,
we have a built a great relationship, and playing number 4, I have mastered hitting long backhands from him. He’s so dependable when many of the other nonpolo ponies are running away and shying from the ball.
Has he won any other Best Playing Pony Awards? Yes, he won best playing HX pony at the Tedworth Polo Club Pony Club friendly this season.
What are your plans for him in the future? I will be hunting him this season for the last time and then my younger brother, William, will take over the reins, as I’ve sadly outgrown him!
Does he have any special quirks? Yes, he’s the greediest horse we have ever known, and as a result it takes about three of us to tack him up as he’s always bolting for lush looking grass!
Describe him in three words. Round, tough, loveable.
Bellamar Pampa Norte comeback, but by the fifth and sixth chukkas, it was Lavinia who were controlling the action with Carlos María Ulloa and Manuel Giménez Villamil commanding the team from the back and combining well with their forwards, Ramon Cassino and Jack Whitman to secure Lavinia their first Thai Polo Cup title, 10½-4.
Jorrocks & JOPPS
Gannon
The Daily Telegraph Trophy (Gannon I)
1st Cowdray
2nd Beaufort
The Jaguar Trophy (Gannon II)
1st South Oxfordshire Hunt South
The Hipwood and Rocksavage, which have previously been Junior HPA tournaments, will now be merged into the Pony Club from this season onwards, while the Buckmaster section will be discontinued. The format of Hipwood and Rocksavage will remain unchanged, with three and four chukka matches on private grounds over 4 – 17 July, which will allow players to also compete in other Pony Club tournaments. Hipwood and Rocksavage players will be required to be members of both the HPA
2nd OS&B
Langford
The Jack Gannon Trophy (Langford I)
1st OS&B
2nd South Oxfordshire Hunt South
The Martin Trotter Trophy (Langford II)
1st Cotswold
2nd Hertfordshire Polo Academy
The Langford Plate (Winner of Langford League at Qualifiers)
South Oxfordshire Hunt South
Loriner/Rendell
The Loriner Challenge Trophy (Loriner/ Rendell I)
1st Royal Artillery/West Hants
2nd Old Berks
Argentine Association of Horse Breeders’ Best Playing Pony: Future Lituania, played by Carlos María Ulloa
The Jorrocks One Cup (Jorrocks I)
1st Beaufort
2nd Cotswold Red
3rd Cotswold Green
Best Playing Pony of the Final: Alberta Belvedere, played by Carlos María Ulloa
The Pardy Cup (Jorrocks II)
3rd New Forest
The Bank of Ireland Trophy (Loriner/ Rendell League)
Scotland
Surtees
The Cooper Cup (Surtees I)
and Pony Club; all Pony Club members less than 3 goals will play a flat rate of £50 for their HPA membership. Andrew Barlow, Chairman of the HPA Development and Coaching Committee, commented, “A vital HPA role is to promote grassroots polo and the development of young polo players. In combining the previous Junior HPA with Pony Club tournaments, this allows us to enhance our long-term objectives of promoting talent for the benefit of all players and the sport in the future. With generous
1st Beaufort Blue
2nd Old Berks
3rd Royal Artillery
4th South Dorset
The Surtees II Trophy (Surtees II)
Beaufort Buff
Surtees III 1st
Handley Cross
The Handley Cross
1st Hampshire Hunt
Gaston Lucero & Federico Martelli
2nd Royal Artillery
3rd OS&B
4th Berkeley Badgers
The Frank Rendell Cup (JOPPS I)
1st Beaufort
2nd Cotswold Red
financial support from Park Place this new partnership enables us to focus on our structured development pathway whilst wholeheartedly supporting and promoting Pony Club Polo”. For more information on Pony Club polo please contact Charles Whittington, or for Hipwood and Rocksavage specifically contact Jilly Emerson.
3rd Hertfordshire Polo Academy
The Henderson Plate (JOPPS II)
Fair Play Award: Carlos Braun
Carlos María Ulloa
The first chukka commenced with both teams demonstrating an impressive display of skill and determination. The Welsh Guards and KPPC teams battled fiercely, racing up and down the field in pursuit of victory. By the end of the chukka, the score remained level, reflecting the intensity and evenly matched performance from both sides. In the second chukka, KPPC seized the opportunity to surge forward, capitalizing on their momentary advantage and leaving The Welsh Guards trailing behind. However, they regrouped and mounted an impressive comeback, refusing to yield to the mounting pressure. As the rain intensified, so did the determination of both teams. The third chukka witnessed a captivating battle, with each player exhibiting unparalleled skill and bravery. The Welsh Guards, fuelled by their relentless spirit, turned the tables and stole the show with a 4-3 win.
The Rupert Thorneloe Trophy Teams:
On Sunday 30 July, the Welsh Guards team and Kirtlington Park Polo Club (KPPC) team battled each other in a match held in memory of the late Rupert Thorneloe. Despite the inclement weather, a small but resilient crowd gathered to witness the encounter.
Welsh Guards (0): Guy Bartle-Jones (0), Henry Llewelyn-Usher (-1), Jonty Barlow (1) & Ruperty Hackwill (0)
KPPC (1): Katy Peagram (-1), Fiona Kalies (0), Sarah Hughes (1) & Sam Tylor (1)
The Queen’s Royal Hussars (QRH) won the prestigious Forsyth Inter Regimental Trophy for the third successive year. The QRH are at the top of their game and this year’s Inter Regimental Final held in early July at Guards Polo Club, was no exception. The competitive army team delivered a convincing performance to defeat the Royal Artillery (RA) 7-1.
The QRH were in command of this match from the first whistle and were 4-0 up at half-time. The RA restored a little honour in the final chukka, but the damage had been done and it was the QRH’s Capt Jamie Fry who stepped forward to lift the trophy, one of the oldest pieces of silverware still played for today, Fry also received The Pringle Cup for the Most Valuable Player. The Forbes Cockell Award, for the most unique moment in the match, went to the RA’s Major Will Mawby. He received this prize from the late Major Ian Forbes-Cockell’s daughter Annabel.
Earlier in the day the Armed Forces Polo Association (AFPA) scored seven goals to win The United Services Cup. They defeated a Veterans team 7-1½ on The Duke’s
Ground. This match was played, as usual, as part of The Chapple Cup series and the AFPA’s win on Inter Regimental Day ensured that they also won The Chapple Cup. The AFPA’s Capt The Hon Freddie Benyon of the Coldstream Guards was named the Most Valuable Player.
The Forsyth Inter Regimental Trophy
Final Teams:
Queen’s Royal Hussars (0): Major Max Morant (-1), Brigadier Nick Cowley (0), Capt The Hon William Cecil (0) & Capt Jamie Fry (1) Royal Artillery (0): Col Dickie Winchester (0), Major Robert Skeggs (0), Capt Will Young (0) & Major Will Mawby (0)
The United Services Cup Teams: AFPA (2): Surgeon Capt Harry Rourke Royal Navy (0), Group Capt Ed Whitechurch RAF (0), Capt Oliver Powell Welsh Guards (2) & Capt The Hon Fred Benyon Coldstream Guards (0) Veterans (1): Major General Robert TalbotRice (-1), Fran Townend (-1), Mark Hayden Kellard (1) & Capt Paddy Selfe (2)
The Tri-Service Tournament for The Tiger Trophy was played on Sunday 6 August as an American style tournament between The Army, The Royal Navy and The Royal Air Force (RAF). The Royal Navy won their first match by half a goal, defeating The Army 3-2½ and drew their second match of the day 2-2 against the RAF, which meant they secured the win. The RAF’s Sqn Ldr Georgie Harwood was chosen as overall Most Valuable Player.
The Tiger Trophy Teams:
The Royal Airforce (-2): Fg Off Mimi Figgins (0), Sqn Ldr Georgie Harwood (0), Sqn Ldr Ross Thomson (-1) & Fly Off Mark Sizzey (-1)
The Royal Navy (-2): Lt Liam Molloy (-2), Wg Cdr Elle Hoogewerf (0), Commander Steve Spiller (0) & Commodore (Retd) Dean Bassett (0)
The Army (-3): Major Alex Humphreys (-2), Lt Alex Bartlam (-1), Lt Col Lucy Anderson (0) & Lt Col Barney Jaques-Grey (0)
10 Teams battled across three divisions for the chance to take home The Captain’s & Subalterns Trophy. Despite the torrential rain on Saturday 22 July, the Tattoo ground held out, allowing all matches to be played as intended, with no injuries to players or ponies.
The Division 1 teams (Royal Artillery, Household Cavalry Regiment and Royal Navy) competed in an American style tournament. The -4 Royal Navy team started their match against the -2 Royal Artillery team with a 1½ goal lead which was quickly increased by a goal from Dean Basset in the first chukka. Luke Wadman was able to slot the ball through the posts in the second chukka, keeping the RA in the game on day one. After a night to re-think their strategy, The RA came out with all guns blazing and goals from Luke Wadman and Claire Blakiston in chukka three soon had the RN on the back foot, however this lead did not last long and a goal from Michael Avery saw the RA behind again. Despite their best efforts the RA could not find the goal in their final chukka against the RN, and Michael Avery was able to position
himself well and score again for the RN, 4½-3. Next up, the RA played the Household Cavalry Regiment. Two quick goals from Lizzie Godwin and Conor Beukes saw the HCR increase their lead, and another goal from Godwin in the second chukka had the HCR set up well for their final two chukkas on Sunday 23 July. After a night to rethink their game plan Claire Blakiston was able to find the HCR goal, but this was swiftly countered by another goal from Godwin. Despite their best efforts in the final chukka, Claire Blakiston was only able to put the ball through the HCR goal once more, leaving the final score, 5½-2 in favour of HCR.
Next up, the RN took on the HCR. In the first chukka neither team were able to find the other’s goal, then in chukka 2 Michael Avery and Jodie Abisgold had a breakthrough, both scoring. The HCR were unable to reply, however the following day Lizzie Godwin and Conor Beukes started the HCR comeback with goals from each in chukka 3. The RN were not phased by this new attack and again Avery and Abisgold were both able to find
the HCR goal in reply. With two goals in it, it was all to play for in the final chukka. Again, Godwin was able to slot the ball through the RN goal, however time was not on their side and the final score went in favour of RN, 4-3. Division 2 was won by The Royal Signals, Division 3 was won by the Army Medical Services and Most Valuable Player was shared between LCpl Felicity Townend, RAMC from the AMS Team and 2Lt Rheana Parmar for the AGC Team.
The Captain’s & Subalterns Division 1
Teams:
The Royal Artillery (-2): Maj Clare Blakiston (-1), Maj Luke Wadman (-1), Capt Will Young (0) & Lt Col Rob Skeggs (0)
Household Cavalry Regiment (-4): Capt Lizzie Godwin (-2), Tpr Conor Beukes (-1), Lt Col Tom Armitage (-1) & 2Lt Ben Humphries (0)
The Royal Navy (-4): Mid Shipman Michael Avery (-2), Lt Jodie Abisgold (-2), Commander Steve Spiller (0) & Commodore (Retd) Dean Bassett (0)
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
A very difficult problem in polo is the timing of injury treatment. When dramatic injuries happen, the route is clear. With less acute problems, the timing can be challenging – losing a season can be challenging. Subacute shoulder pain associated with glenoid labrum lesions may not stop you from playing, but come back later with bigger problems. The aim is to provide valuable insights and practical tips to help alleviate discomfort and maintain peak performance on the field.
Glenoidal labrum lesions are prevalent among athletes who engage in repetitive overhead motions, such as polo players. These lesions can result from trauma, wear and tear, or improper technique. They often lead to persistent shoulder pain and decreased range of motion, affecting a player’s overall performance.
Injury Prevention & Management
1. Proper Technique: Work closely with a qualified coach or sports trainer to ensure your playing technique minimises strain on the shoulder joint.
2. Warm-Up Routine: Implement a comprehensive warm-up routine that includes dynamic stretches targeting the shoulder muscles and joints.
3. Strength and Conditioning: Engage in a tailored strength and conditioning program focusing on the muscles around the shoulder joint. This helps stabilise the joint and reduce the risk of injury.
4. Rest and Recovery: Allow sufficient time for rest between matches and practice sessions. Overtraining can exacerbate shoulder issues.
5. Cross-Training: Incorporate cross-training activities that
promote balanced muscle development and alleviate strain on the shoulders.
6. Managing Shoulder Pain: Rest, ice, compression can provide initial relief for acute shoulder pain.
Physical Therapy:
Seek guidance from a sports physiotherapist who specialises in shoulder injuries. They can design a rehabilitation program tailored to your needs.
Pain Management:
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain and inflammation. Consult a medical professional before use.
Modalities: Explore modalities such as ultrasound, taping, and massage therapy under the supervision of a qualified professional.
Diagnostic Imaging:
If pain persists, consider undergoing diagnostic imaging, such as X-ray and MRI, to assess the extent of the labrum lesion.
Surgical Options: Depending on the severity of the lesion, surgical intervention may be necessary. Consult an orthopedic specialist to explore potential treatment options. The arthroscopic treatment with refixation through bone ankers
is the gold standard. In case of additional instability further action like a bone block transfers may be indicated. When the indication is clearly given and treatment gets postponed the risk for secondary pathology rises.
Conclusion:
Managing shoulder pain and glenoidal labrum lesions is essential for polo players to continue enjoying their favourite sport. By prioritising proper technique, injury prevention strategies, and seeking expert
A persisting labrum lesion led to an inadequate healing mechanism with a secondary ganglion formation. The huge ganglion cysts caused a suprascapular nerve compression and a consecutive muscle atrophy with loss of external
The Paul Sweeney Memorial was founded by Lesley, Charlotte and Georgia Sweeney in memory of Paul Sweeney after his unexpected death in 2009 at just 48-years-old in order to keep his spirit and legacy alive. Each year, the tournament attracts a number of players and spectators, gathering at Ash Farm Polo Club to cheer on the finalists. This year saw a record number of teams and after a two-year postponement due to Covid-19, the grandstands were packed. Twelve Oaks managed to stave off a last-minute attempt by Rosina to claim the title and took a 14-12 victory.
rotation power in the shoulder. The advent of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and its application in patients with shoulder pain has improved the ability to diagnose these posttraumatic cystic lesions causing extrinsic compression of the suprascapular nerve.
guidance when needed, players can overcome challenges and thrive on the field. Remember, your health is your most valuable asset – take care of your shoulders, and they’ll take care of you on the polo field.
Ask the Expert:
Send in your questions about shoulder injuries and labrum lesions to my e-mail address (drmedkrueger@gmail.com) or ask your resident sportortho medicine expert. Stay strong and stay informed!
A CT guided punction and infiltration was tried without reduction of the cyst size. The definitive treatment of suprascapular nerve compression by a ganglion cyst requires cyst excision to recover the nerve and motor function.
Understanding what it takes to overcome fear and self-doubt has been at the root of Paul ‘Stalkie’ Stalker’s personal transformation. He has proven experience of working with Polo Teams, Patrons and individual players for the past three years achieving outstanding results. With individual clients, Stalkie’s aim is to untap, nurture and focus their passion and potential on becoming the best versions of themselves in all aspects of their lives, whatever their starting point
My breakthrough was marshalled by my inspirational mentor, Dr. Rosy Daniel (www. drrosydaniel.org). Rosy is an Integrative Medical Consultant whose intimate knowledge of nutrition, complementary therapy and the mind-body connection has helped thousands of people to achieve optimum levels of energy, health and wellbeing – something that every polo player, every elite sports player, can benefit from.
Martin Perez, trainer of La Indiana and Norberto Imas (personal trainer to Mariano Aguerre and many other world-class polo players), were just two of the Personal Trainers (PT) who motivated me to enter the world of polo. Both were key advocates in moving polo towards a more professional approach at all levels.
When Perez first started in the game, he was one of the most visible trainers out there working with players, but now it’s common practice to see players warming up, stretching and doing proper cool downs and post-match recovery sessions with professional trainers. “Players now see the real benefits of workouts tailor made for them, that work around their goals and their lives – and the sport is all the better and safer for it”, says Perez, “always bearing in mind everything else that they do, (how many horses they’ve ridden that day, practices, stick-and-ball sessions, when they’re next playing etc.), I work hardest on flexibility. This is one of the cornerstones of polo fitness and its importance to players of all levels cannot be overstated”.
With an increasing focus on the physical wellbeing of polo players, the mental and attitudinal benefits exponentially increase
too. This has now opened the eyes of patrons, coaches and players to the gains in performance that mindset coaching can provide to them and their teams.
As Norberto explains, “It is noticeable that when players are in good physical condition, they feel more confident and secure in themselves. They know that they are prepared to take on any situation that they might face in a game. They feel more motivated when they are physically and mentally balanced and enjoy every match and challenge even more. There are so many benefits to following a training plan, but I think the most important ones are based in injury prevention and lengthening a player’s career as well as the mental side”.
Over 20 years ago a specialist told me that I had around three months to live and I was placed in the Priory Hospital to see out my last days. This was due to a very aggressive form of cancer, the inability of my body to cope with the conventional treatment I was receiving and the fearful, traumatic thoughts that dominated my mind.
The reason I’m still here to tell the tale is because of the dramatic turnround in the way I treated my mind and body.
Since defying the odds to conquer cancer, I’ve been able to push myself to new physical limits. I regularly compete in international endurance events – particularly cycling and swimming – that are considered beyond the capabilities of most sportspeople of my age. What I’ve learned is by seriously valuing your physical and mental health, you will sustain a fulfilling and rewarding sports career.
That’s why, when working with my stable of polo teams and individual players, I work with the team’s physical coach and a nutritionist to map out the basic physical activities and diet that each player can incorporate into their lives. The outcome is to build outstanding health and energy levels, not just for elite polo playing but for the quality of their lives outside the sport.
My nutritionist will devise plans based on each player’s measurements and needs which become a vital part of building their strength and aiding recovery, allowing them to feel their best. In my time as a polo mindset coach, I can recall so many tense matches that have been won in the final chukka due to the winning team’s superior mental and physical resilience – it’s a nobrainer investment for any ambitious patron.
At RAISE Polo our nutritional plan focuses on three key principles:
1. Nourishing your body with healthy food and drink
2. Keeping your body fit and relaxed
3. Freeing your body of toxic chemicals
This is a massively important subject which I only have space here to give you the headlines of, but if you’d like to drill down further then please go to www.raisepolo.com where you can find out much more.
Nourishing your body with healthy food and
Most of us have a basic understanding of what we should and shouldn’t eat and drink, but knowing and doing are two different sides of the coin!
A game-changer for me was to replace refined and processed foods with the wholefood, unprocessed equivalent.
to walk in forested areas). Scientists have established that forest environments reduce concentrations of our stress hormone cortisol, it lowers pulse rate and blood pressure, promoting greater nerve activity than urban environments. There are now more than 50 official Forest Therapy trails in Japan.
When I learned that there were over 5,000 chemicals used in processed foods, I moved to eating ‘live’ food and fresh, organic produce.
Nutritionists encourage eating ‘live food’ which has not had the life cooked out of it. When processed, the good things in these foods effectively die, becoming useless at protecting us from disease. The aim is to ensure you include live fresh food with every single meal. This means avoiding food that is microwaved, processed, deep fried, smoked, char-grilled, irradiated, frozen or chemically enhanced – as this ensures all the beneficial living vitamins, minerals, enzymes and phytonutrients are intact.
Foods that are live include fresh vegetables, fruits, salads, nuts and seeds, fresh cereals and grains. The plant nutrients in these foods have been shown to reverse the formation of cancer cells by repairing the genetic material in the cell nucleus.
Many of our most common degenerative diseases such as cancer, heart disease and arthritis, are caused by our bodies being too acidic. Unfortunately, a lot of the things we consume are ‘lifestyle choices’ which acidify the body such as alcohol, tea, coffee and fizzy drinks, dairy food, red meat, processed food, fast food, citrus fruit and berries.
To counteract acidity in your diet, the most alkalising foods are vegetables, particularly leafy greens like kale, chard and cabbage, as well as pulses, nuts, seeds, grains and cereals and fruits such as melon, banana, papaya, dates and figs.
Your body is constantly trying to maintain an alkaline balance. Your cells work very hard to keep you healthy, but if you are consistently too acidic it increases the likelihood of illness. Further information on the benefits of an alkaline diet can be found at: www.americannutritionassociation.org and www.diabetes.co.uk
I highly recommend juicing large quantities of non-acidic fruit and vegetables which breaks the nutrient goodies out of their cellulose fibre casing and turns them into a form that the body can easily digest. Juicing gets all the nutritious substances that your body craves without having to chew your way through kilos of raw veg. A glass of vegetable juice a day can quickly restore the essential alkaline balance in your body.
Get yourself a juice extractor, or better still use a juice press. Juicing every day became a key part of restoring my immune system when I was a dying man.
A useful exercise to see where you currently are on the nutrition spectrum is to write down everything that you have consumed over the last two days. Highlight the live foods – the fruits, raw or lightly steamed/stir fried vegetables, salads, nuts, seeds and raw cereals in your diet.
If you are eating 70 percent live food or more, then you are on the right track. If you are eating 10 percent live, it’s a lot better than 0% and it is a starting point to improve your score.
Correct hydration is a polo player’s best friend. It is essential to peak performance.
The brain is 95 percent water, the lungs are 90 percent, blood is 83 percent and muscles are 76 percent, this is why we need to have a recommended daily intake of quality, filtered water. Whenever you become ill, the first thing you’re told is to make sure you drink lots of water, so that all the toxins which have built up overnight from the chemical processes of the body can be flushed out of the tissues.
Factors that affect hydration are how much you sweat during playing, the temperature and humidity you’re playing in and the length of the game. You need additional fluids to replace the water lost in sweat. Failing to do this can not only lead to cramps but will stop your body from recovering efficiently which in turn makes you more susceptible to injury.
Aim to drink three litres of good quality (filtered or spring) water per day. Electrolyte drinks help to replenish water, electrolytes and energy lost during playing.
Keeping your body fit and relaxed: To achieve optimum health, we all need to understand our relationship with the basic elements of our personal ecosystem, starting with oxygen. When you breathe in oxygen, its energy couples with a molecule called Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), known in biochemistry as the ‘molecular currency’ of energy transfer between cells. It’s like a battery for the body, storing and transporting chemical energy within cells.
As well as getting the vital oxygen to power your body’s engine, there’s much scientific evidence to suggest that spending time amongst nature breathing in clean oxygen encourages relaxed feelings and well-being in us all.
Our Japanese friends have known this for years and they practice ‘shinrin-yoku’ which means ‘forest-bathing’ (taking time
This is a great reminder of what an amazing sport polo is. We get to spend vast periods of time outside in green spaces, so we must take advantage of it, breathing deeply to fill our bodies with clean oxygen –polo shinrin-yoku!
Freeing your body of toxic chemicals
When committing to an optimum healthy lifestyle, you must look to decrease the harmful toxins that you take in that poison your cells.
The main toxins to avoid are:
• Chemical food additives that extend shelf life, ‘enhance’ colour and flavour
• Foods which are chargrilled or smoked, which have a higher possibility of containing carcinogenic substances
• An excess of fat, sugar, salt, protein and caffeine
• Excess alcohol and nicotine – the two most common toxins which destroy our bodies’ health. Beware of an excess of fat, sugar, salt, protein and caffeine
• Excess use of non-vital medication which may interfere with cell function or give you unwanted side effects (eg painkillers) In short, the simple rule is to avoid an excess of all the above.
There are numerous benefits of specific polo coaching, both physical and mental, regardless of handicap, budget or time constraints. When these filter through all levels of our beautiful game, it becomes even more attractive to future generations. Kudos goes to all trainers who are working to make polo players quicker, stronger, safer, happier, resilient role models.
Hosted by mindset and wellbeing expert Paul ‘Stalkie’ Stalker, Club Raise will bring together individuals who share a passion for polo, but also share a passion for achieving optimum health and wellbeing. Whether you’re a player, parent of a polo player, patron, coach or simply a fan who’s passionate about the sport, Stalkie and his RAISE Polo team have created three transformative online courses, launching in September 2023.
The courses are specifically designed to sharpen and sustain mind, body and wellbeing, to enhance your love of the game, to network with like-minded people and achieve outstanding performance on and off the polo field.
Visit www.raisepolo.com and enter your details following the ‘Book Your Free Discovery Call’ link to discover the profound difference that Stalkie’s coaching can make to your life.
Renowned polo coach, Rege Ludwig gives his expert advice on how to get more out of your game
Because the defence and the offence sides of the game necessitate their own actions and reactions and because some players are more inclined toward one side of the game than the other, the strategy aspect of a player’s playing ability must be taken into consideration when forming a team.
To better understand how to respond to an opponent, when your team is playing within the defence mode of play, consider the defence mode of play as representing a honeymoon; i.e., you cannot get close enough, soon enough. Contrastingly, when playing within the offence mode of play, you cannot get away far enough, fast enough.
A way of conceiving of the difference between the two modes of play is to consider that any time a player on your team is in the process of hitting the ball, your team is playing within the offence mode of play. Under those conditions, each team member should get away from their opposing player, as quickly as possible, as far as possible to become a viable target for a pass of the ball.
Contrastingly, when the opposing team is hitting the ball, your team is playing within the defence mode of play. Under those conditions, you and your teammates should get to your opponents as quickly as possible to keep them from getting to the ball, or from the ball being passed to them.
There will be times when your team is playing within the offence mode of play and a defence maneuver is appropriate. For example: consider that a teammate is bringing the ball downfield behind you, and there is an unmarked opponent in front of you. Under those conditions, it could prove to be a good offensive maneuver for you to move forward to that unmarked opposing player; make contact with that player and push that player away from where your teammate will be going with the ball. Under those conditions, you are executing what typically would be considered a defence maneuver; however, you are doing it within the offence mode of play.
Within my coaching career it has not been unusual for me to suggest to the lowest rated player on the team to holler, “Defence,” every time the team is put into the defence mode of play. I do that for two reasons:
1. To make sure the whole team is reminded to get into the defence mode of thinking, and playing; and, within the process get to the nearest unmarked opposing player, as quickly as possible.
2. To teach the lower handicap player to be continuously looking around for the purpose of knowing:
A. Where the ball and the Line of the ball are
B. Where the closest unmarked opponent is
C. Where each teammate is
As quoted from the book, An Introduction to POLO, by Marco”, written by Lord Louis Mountbatten of Burma, “In polo half of the battle is to decide quickly and to anticipate... You should know at any given moment where your opposing and opposite number... and the enemy goal are… Otherwise it will be impossible for you to think one or two strokes ahead and take quick decisions”.
The gist of that quote is, you should be constantly looking around to identify where you are relative to: 1. the ball, 2. the LOB, 3. the opposing player, 4. your teammates, and 5. the goal.
To give you an idea as to how much you should be looking around, I present the following scenario: assume you are riding to the ball to execute a back shot; and, you are approximately thirty yards from the ball. At thirty yards from the ball, look back to identify where an unmarked teammate is to whom you can hit the ball. About ten yards from the ball look back again to make sure as to where your unmarked teammate is. Continue riding to the ball so as to hit the ball where you think your unmarked teammate is now. Immediately after having hit the ball, look back again to verify that your teammate did receive the ball. If they did, turn immediately to follow that teammate in support.
If they did not, immediately go to the closest unmarked opponent, and stay with that opponent until your team is once again in possession of the ball.
In that same book, under the chapter entitled Attack, Lord Mountbatten states, “The primary factor in a successful attack is speed. The great thing is to waste no time in getting the ball to the enemy goal, while
giving your opponents as little of a chance as possible to take up their defensivepositions.”
In an effort to make this article applicable to every handicap level of player and game, and stay within the realm of, “waste no time,” I refer to former seven goal player, Dr. John D Richards in his book, Observations Upon the Nature of the Gallop and the Timing of a Polo Stroke and Form in Striking, (printed in 1939) “Every student of the game has observed “that there are players who strike well when the game is moderately fast but whose hitting deteriorates noticeably with an increase of the pace. While other factors enter into the result upon the aforesaid principle hangs the explanation of why many a player, giving great promise when playing in slow polo, shows up lamentably at international speed.”
Dr. Richards goes on to state, “His nervous system is not geared to the pace, and he lacks the greatest of all assets in the game, quickness. Quickness in thinking, Quickness in action, Quickness in hitting. Lacking in this great attribute, ... no one can hope to become a fine player”.
Because of that assessment, I strongly suggest that when stick and balling, do not stick and ball at a continuous slow pace of eight to ten miles per hour. Within just about every stick and ball session, hit all shots and dribble the ball at varying speeds, up to and including the fastest pace at which you are comfortable.
Stick and balling at a slow speed allows developing the techniques associated with hitting any given shot. While, stick and balling at speed allows becoming familiar with and comfortable with hitting the ball under conditions that are much more consistent with the intensity of game.
From my understanding of playing the game of polo, it is critical to play the defensive side of the game at least as intensely, aggressively, and correctly as the offensive side. I come to that conclusion by realizing that if a team achieves the amazing offensive task of scoring 15 goals in a game but blows it on the defensive side by allowing the opposing team to score 16 goals, the team that scored the amazing 15 goals still loses. And, it does not make any difference as to the how or the why a team loses – losing sucks; even if
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Leadenham Polo Club 07429 299026 office@leadenhampoloclub.com
Longdole Polo Club* 01452 864544 info@longdolepolo.com
Moor Farm Polo Club 07494 114190 shop@moorfarmshop.co.uk
Moor Hall Farm Polo Club* 01279 450637 alecbeve@btinternet.com
New Forest Polo Club 07977 224404 annabelparryjoyner@yahoo.co.uk
Norfolk Polo Club 01508 480400 office@norfolkpolo.co.uk
Northern Ireland Polo Club 07803 020577 info@northernirelandpoloclub.co.uk
Offchurch Bury Polo Club* 07816 830887 info@offchurchburypoloclub.co.uk
Barfold Polo Club 07778 808853 mborwick@gmail.com
Bawtry Polo Club 01302 773282 info@bawtrypoloclub.co.uk
Beaufort Polo Club 01666 880510 enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.co.uk
Beverley Polo Club* 01964 544877 info@beverleypoloclub.co.uk
Binfield Heath 01491 411969 bhpcmanager@gmail.com
Blueys Polo Club* 07930 323263 polomanager@blueyspolo.co.uk
Bramham Polo Academy 07811 993316 emmadvh@btinternet.com
Bunclody Polo Club 00353 87 6605917 info@poloclubbunclody.com
Pangbourne Polo Club 07708 906810 aprice@polofix.com
Peover Polo Club 07766 016 833 polomanager@peoverpoloclub.co.uk
that losing team scored an amazing 15 goals.
Polo Wicklow* 00353 404 67164 siobhan@polowicklow.com
RAF Cranwell 07739 569491 rafcranwellpoloclub@yahoo.co.uk
Ranelagh Polo Club* 01344 885697 ranelagh@labravapolo.com
RCBPC* 01344 890060 polo@rcbpc.com RMAS Polo Club
From the other side of that scoring perspective, if your team does not score any goals, while preventing the other team from scoring any goals, your team still does not lose the game; which, is an acceptable alternative to losing.
In the final analysis, winning is as much of a matter of how many goals your team prevented, i.e., (defence); as to how many goals your team scored, i.e., (offence).
174542 rmas-nc-aci-projinters@mod.uk
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040668 secretary@rutlandpoloclub.co.uk
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Burningfold Polo Club 01483 200722 derrek@burningfold.com
Cambridge Polo Club* 07711 217004 cambridgepoloclub@icloud.com
Cambridge County Polo Club* 01223 812922 info@cambridgecountypoloclub.co.uk
Carlton House 07901 561113 harrietservaes@hotmail.com
from scoring; is every bit as significant to the possibility of winning, as is your team scoring goal after goal.
Chester Racecourse Polo Club 01244 304602 amorris@chester-races.com
Cheshire Polo Club 01948 861020 info@cheshirepoloclub.co.uk
I am not suggesting that the offence side of the game is not important. I am, however, unequivocally stating that the defence side of the game, i.e., prevent the other team
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Curraghmore Polo Club 00353 51 387102 mkennedy@cssgroup.ie
Dallas Burston Polo Club* 01926 811 111 enquiries@ixlevents.com
The fact of the matter is, your team cannot lose if the opposing team does not score; and, the opposing team will find it difficult to score when your team plays the defence side of the game correctly and well.
Dorset Polo Club 01202 623985 office@dorsetpolo.co.uk
Druids Lodge Polo Club* 01722 782597 abi@druidspolo.co.uk
Donna Barker is a professionally qualified and experienced Equine Integrative Support Therapy Practitioner with a broad skill set. Donna continues to develop her knowledge and skills through CPD and ongoing additional qualifications, including Equine Osteopathy and her qualifications also include BSc Hons Equine Therapy & Rehabilitation, Equine Sports & Remedial Massage Practitioner EMAP Dist., Practitioner of Equine Shiatsu and Certified Equine Craniosacral Technique Therapist
In the early 1900s an Osteopathic Physician discovered how the bones of the cranium connected to the sacrum in the human body through what Dr. William Sutherland referred to as the core link.
Dr Sutherland observed the effects on the sacrum and pelvis when pressures were applied to the various bones of the skull, and the same when he applied pressures to the sacrum as to how the bones of the skull were affected. This is what we now
know to be a form of rhythmic movement known as the ‘craniosacral rhythm’, a subtle expansion (flexion) and contraction (extension) of the cranial bones, spinal cord and other connective tissues including fascia.
During the 1970s, Dr. John Upledger, another Osteopathic Physician was studying and working with Dr. Sutherland and further developed both his work and theories and began teaching CranioSacral to others. Craniosacral techniques evolved
from the practice of osteopathy and was originally known as Cranio-osteopathy.
What is Craniosacral Therapy?
It is a non-invasive, energy-based bodywork therapy where a very light contact is used by the Practitioner to connect to the patient’s body with no physical manipulation to bones or tissue. Although specific attention is given to the cranium, spine and sacrum, a Craniosacral treatment has profound effects
on the whole body. This is achieved through a set of specific hands-on techniques applied that facilitate the body to release any physical and emotional restrictions and imbalances.
How does is work with horses?
Horses are ‘flight’ animals, meaning they once had to flee from predators to survive on the grassy plains. Their innate instinct to run from danger is still evident as the fight, flight or freeze response of the sympathetic nervous system is to release epinephrine (adrenalin) and cortisol hormones when it is triggered by external environmental stressors, such as those horse-eating plastic bags and killer pigeons! The parasympathetic nervous system for rest and digest then has to counteract this response through releasing different hormones; dopamine, serotonin, endorphins and oxytocin. This is an essential cycle to help bring back balance and harmony to the whole mind, body and soul.
How is a connection felt?
Dr. Upledger theorised that within the brain extravascular nerves controlled an intermittent production of cerebrospinal fluid from cells within the Choroid Plexus. This created a rhythm which we know to be the craniosacral rhythm.
The body is 97 percent water so the craniosacral rhythm is essentially under water, flowing like a wave from the pressure gradient through the fluid medium, a Fluid Wave Transmission. The rhythmical production of the cerebrospinal fluid fluctuates the hydrostatic pressure of the craniosacral
rhythm and feels like a subtle wave motion. Bone is living tissue and flexes (expands) and extends (contracts) along with the rhythm. During cranial extension the skull elongates and narrows whilst the sacrum gently rocks back and forth with this expansion and contraction rhythm. Fascia is another living tissue, a connective tissue that is also affected by craniosacral therapy. Through its transmission of a fluid wave and interconnection with the skeleton, it creates a lever and pulley effect which influences the whole skeletal system. When these structures are well aligned the fluid will easily flow round the brain and spinal cord. When horses experience
an injury, trauma, or an illness, the flow in the system is compromised and imbalances occur. A Craniosacral Therapist uses their ‘listening hands’ to tune into the craniosacral rhythm to feel how well the rhythm is reflecting out to the rest of the body and through their touch improve any dysfunctions. The body will tell us what it needs.
Web: www.dbequinetherapy.co.uk
Tel: 07739 416781
Donna Barker Equine Therapy & Rehabilitation
receive
Height: 14hh
Age: 12-years-old
Colour: Chestnut
Sex: Mare
Owned and played by: Pablo Mac Donough
Tournament: The Indian Empire Shield at Guards Polo Club
Where is she from/breeding?
She was bred by La Irenita.
How long have you had her? Since she was born!
What are her strengths? She is extremely handy and quick.
How has she gone this season? 2023 has been the best season of her life.
Has she won any other Best Playing Pony Awards?
She has had a successful 2023 season, picking up quite a few BPPs, winning the
Height: 15.3hh
Age: Eight-years-old
Colour: Black
Sex: Mare
Owned and played by: Played by Lucy Coddington and owned by Coddington Bracewell Polo Stud
Tournament: The Claire Tomlinson Trophy at Beaufort Polo Club
Where is she from/breeding? She is a New Zealand Thoroughbred mare. She was too slow to race (Her racing name in NZ was Brentford), they may have let her go too early as she is super-fast now!
How long have you had her? Jonny Coddington made her.
What are her strengths? She is so calm, yet really fast, good on her feet and tough in a ride off.
How has she gone this season? She is still getting better with every game.
BPP rug in six Gold and Cartier Queen’s Cup matches this year, including in the Final of The Cartier Queen’s Cup.
What are your plans for her in the future?
I plan to keep on playing her and eventually bring her back for breeding in Argentina.
Does she have any special quirks? Not really…
Describe her in three words? Best Playing Pony.catching, athletic, consistent.
What are your plans for her in the future? We’d like to lease her out to the high goal next season but keep her for breeding. We already have a yearling embryo by her and Lovelocks Chekhov.
Describe her in three words? Tough, relaxed, calm.
To read more about the Polo Times Best Playing Ponies at The 2023 Pony Club Polo Championships, please turn to the Youth Polo pages
2023 Polo Ball; Saturday 22 July; Cirencester Park Polo Club, Gloucestershire
Guests were welcomed into the stunning marquee with a drinks reception, followed by a mouth-watering three course meal by Relish, with roast lamb leg being the star of the show. Afterwards, a game of true or false was hosted by the Club’s Polo Manager, Caspar West; turns out the guests’ knowledge is far better than expected! Throughout the night the Iglu bar was in constant demand making their delicious cocktails. The entertainment provided by the Shadow Monkeys was sensational as always and their music had everyone grooving on the dance floor until the early hours. The Club expressed their thanks to everyone for supporting the Club, “the atmosphere and enjoyment had by all made the hard work more than worth it”.
Photography by Shadow Shots Guests enjoying the marquee decorations & three course supper Steph Allen Alexander Bathurst Amelia Scott-Hopkins Sam Bellard & Luke Wiles Koren Danby, Anna Kinge & Ellie Dalton Monte Swain-Grainger & Georgina Bathurst Club Members & friends The Shadow Monkeys kept everyone entertained Tamara Fox & Forbes Nelson Clarinda Tija-Dharmadi Chris Fagan Caspar WestKPPC Summer Ball; Saturday 22 July; Kirtlington Park Polo Club, Oxfordshire
This year’s ball was set under the spellbinding theme of Harry Potter and from the moment guests stepped into the venue, they were transported into a world of wizardry and wonder with fantastic decorations courtesy of the efforts of the Social Committee. The Great Hall/Marquee was transformed with floating envelopes, Platform 9¾ and magnificent recreations of magical snitches. The auction was generously supported with donations from within the Club and the wider community, demonstrating the unwavering support for Kirtlington Park Polo Club. Everyone had an amazing night, as evidenced by the fact that the Groove Box band had everyone dancing until the early hours of the morning!
Photography by Peter Greenway
The Harry Potter themed marquee
Hatty Bell, Amanda Fontanarrosa & Lolo Fontanarrosa with Lucy Budgett
Charlotte Pykett, Klari Du Toit & Henrietta Horsley Gubbins
Sarah Hughes & Christopher Crawford
Ted Foster & Eliza Ganley
August Grupp, Ploy Bhinsaeng & William Emerson
Charlie Budgett
Vicky Walker, Lorna Edgar, Charlotte Ledger & Tom Edgar
Simon Duffy, Sarah Rippon, Tom Michelle, Catherine Young, Eric Asker, Christopher Crawford & Tomas Fernandez
Becca Bullock, Jenny Baber, Ed Stockley Eltham, Lorna & Tom Edgar with Vicky Walker & Ben Stockley Eltham Sally Turner Nico Fontanarrosa
The Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup Final; Sunday 13 August; Guards Polo Club, Windsor
More than 50 Ferraris of the Ferrari Owners Club of Great Britain attended this year’s Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup Final. Wherever you look on this day, you are never out of sight of either a top equine athlete or the finest Ferrari horsepower, with the players driven onto the ground in a selection of Ferraris, a unique sight in British polo and a memorable experience for all of the players. The Lush by Tom Kerridge team were on hand as always to keep the guests refreshed and well-fed in the Clubhouse and the spectators were treated to a great display of polo with Monterosso and Ojo Caliente battling it out to lift Guards Polo Club’s newest trophy; turn to our Reports pages to read all about the Final.
Photography by Sam Churchill
Michael Fisher & Tissy Sievwright Jeronimo del Carril
John Terry, John Collins & Graeme Souness
Lush by Tom Kerridge team at the Clubhouse
Chelsea Pensioners admire the Ferraris
Facundo Sola, Matt Perry, John Collins, Ana Escobedo & Tim Bown
Ferraris outside the Clubhouse
Facundo Sola in a Ferrari 365 GTC 4 Spyder
John Cookson
Lt Col Sean O’Dwyer & Pete Webb
Cubi Toccalino
Congratulations to New Zealand polo player, Kit Brooks and Bianca Drake on the birth of their baby daughter!
Tell us yours at gossip@polotimes.co.uk Anonymity
Congratulations to Beth and Max Hutchinson who tied the knot on Saturday 19 August surrounded by family and friends.
Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, returned to Singapore Polo Club to play in the 2023 Sentebale ISPS Handa Polo Cup. The annual event has raised £11 million to date for Sentebale, supporting children and young people in southern Africa. The Royal Salute Sentebale Team, captained by Malcolm Borwick took on Singapore Polo Club Team, captained by Sentebale Ambassador Nacho Figueras, with the evenly matched game resulting in a 7-7 draw.
Answer - to the question posed on our Letters page
A: The Pony Club was founded in 1929 and granted independent charitable status on 1 January 1997.
amorris@chester-races.com
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enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk
Curraghmore Polo Club 00353 51 387102 mkennedy@cssgroup.ie Dallas Burston Polo Club*
811 111 enquiries@ixlevents.com
Dorset Polo Club 01202 623985 office@dorsetpolo.co.uk
Druids Lodge Polo Club* 01722 782597 abi@druidspolo.co.uk
Dundee and Perth Polo Club* 07831 365 194 jamesscrawford@aol.com
Eastwood Polo Club
Edgeworth Polo Club
300063 frankums@googlemail.com
821695 edgeworthpolo@gmail.com
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aprice@polofix.com
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ranelagh@labravapolo.com RCBPC*
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817724 info@rugbypoloclub.com
Rutland Polo Club
040668 secretary@rutlandpoloclub.co.uk
Silver Leys Polo Club 07730 060200 silverleyspoloclub@gmail.com
St. Albans Polo Club 07956 017090 info@stalbanspoloclub.co.uk
Stewarton Polo Club 07974 706045 info@stewartonpolo.co.uk
Suffolk Polo Club 07990 576974 aes3@cam.ac.uk
Sussex Polo Club* 01342 714920 info@sussexpolo.co.uk
Taunton Vale Polo Club 07771 931541 Chairman_tcvpc@btinternet.com
Tedworth Park Polo Club* 01980 846705 info@tedworthparkpolo.com
Toulston Polo Club 07776 234638 info@toulstonpoloclub.com
Triskelion Polo Club* 07624 272547 polo@triskelionpolo.club
Vale of York Polo Club* 07788 426968 info@valeofyorkpoloclub.co.uk
Vaux Park Park Polo Club* 07703 524613 vppc@btconnect.com
vO Polo Club 01536 639018 membership@vopoloclub.com
West Wycombe Park Polo Club* 07787 560729 secretary@westwycombepolo.co.uk
Westcroft Park Polo Club* 01276 858545 info@westcroftparkpolo.co.uk
White Rose Polo Club* 01430 875767 info@whiterosepolo.co.uk
White Waltham Polo Club 07748 670587 kim@playpolo.co.uk
* Also open for arena polo in the UK winter
TB 15hh, 10-y-o, Really Easy
Mare 10-years-old, has been with current owner for the past six years. Easy to do in every way: shoe, clip, box etc. Loves her job, as well as going for hacks and being loved on the yard. Has played from -8 goal with 10-year-old to 12 goal with 1 goal owner. Five star home essential. £12,000 (Gloucestershire). Tel: 07969 456214
Easy Patron Mare Easy, straightforward, handy, reliable and pretty patron mare. 15.1hh, 2012. Available to try at Westcroft Park. £12,000. Tel: 07857 149203
Polo Bridle Havana polo bridle full size, 5.5” bit. Collection near Cambridge but can post at buyer’s expense. £100. Tel: 07596 878183
Tack Clear Out Headcollars, stirrup irons, saddle pad, headpiece etc. Headcollars (£5 each). Saddle half pad (£10). Plastic stirrup irons, new with tags (£10). Leather headpiece 5/8, new with tags (£10). Shires anti-chafe brown girth 48” (£15). Collection near Cambridge but can post at buyer’s expense.
Tel: 07596 878183
2013 TB Mare 15.1hh, zero vices, would suit young or light rider, looking to progress or take it easy. Selling as owner travelling. Based in Lincolnshire, available to try and travel. £14,000. Tel: 07957 282647
Breastplates & Running Reins
Two breast girths and a set of running reins. Reins have been lengthened a bit. Breastgirths £25 each, runners £20. Collection near Knepp or can post at cost. Tel: 07809 481625
Bridle Set Set includes: Bridle, reins, running reins, martingale, breastplate, bit. International postage available. (London). £110. Whatsapp: +923133 133231
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
Seven-Year-Old Mare Fashion. Lovely, smart, uncomplicated with top end speed. 15.3hh. Played 4 to 12 goal. Would suit patron or university polo for the coming season. Can be tried out at Beaufort Polo club to S&B or chukkas. Does occasionally wind suck but doesn’t effect condition or performance. This is reflected in the price. £15,000. Tel: 0785 4007288
Polo Saddle Collection in Cambridge or can post at buyer’s expense. £150. Tel: 07596 878183
If you are interested in selling your car or motorcycle and are looking for a prompt, hassle-free cash buyer! I am always very keen to add to my current stock, so please feel free to contact me for a no obligation discussion about your vehicle.
I am particularly interested in purchasing prestige, sports, classic, vintage, racing and competition cars and motorcycles, as well as any interesting or unusual models. Complete collections purchased and all conditions considered, from barn-finds to concours. I will travel any distance for the right vehicle/s, and discretion is always assured. I am a cash buyer not an agent.
If you are looking for a specific vehicle then please also get in contact as I may have or could source what you are looking for?
Kayley Maria Smith has enjoyed being part of the huge UAE organisation for both herself and her horses and over the last few years she has had the chance to play and practice with some of the biggest names in polo, learning a lot and improving her game. Following her recent win with UAE Polo in The British Open Polo Championship for The Cowdray Gold Cup, we caught up with her to find out more about what makes her tick
What is your biggest passion and why?
The horses and just being happy is everything. I just want to be successful in whatever I do, and if that means seeing both the horses and my polo improving, then that is everything that drives me to want to do more and be better.
What is your all-time best polo memory?
The moment the final bell went at the end of the sixth chukka in the Gold Cup final against Dubai. We were up the entire game until they came back to draw, and then went ahead of us. In the last minute we managed to equalise and in the final 25 seconds, Lukin Monteverde scored the most beautiful goal securing us the win.
Who were/are your favourite teammates?
I love playing with Tommy Beresford. He is an incredibly talented player and a true gentleman on and off the field. If I were to pick a previous favourite team, it would be our UAE 2022 Holden White team at Cowdray – Sheika Maitha, myself, Hazel Jackson and Lukin Monteverde. We used to call ourselves ‘Lukin and his three chicks’. It was such a fun team to be a part of, and I got to play on some of Lucero Monteverde’s little machines.
Hardest opponent?
Hilario Ulloa. On some set plays against Park Place I was sent to mark him, and he is so difficult to read. He is so fast and agile on a horse, and you never know what he is going to do.
Which sports do you like outside of polo?
I grew up playing football and played all my life. It is amazing to see how well the England Lionesses are doing and it makes me so happy for women’s football to finally get the recognition and coverage it deserves.
Favourite film and why?
All of The Inbetweeners movies. I cackle laughing the whole way through them.
Favourite song/album?
I am a Michael Jackson fanatic, so everything from him.
Favourite food/dish?
Spaghetti Bolognese is always a favourite. When I get to spend some time at home with my family, I always ask my parents to make it for me! Also, anything spicy!
Favourite hobby outside of polo?
I don’t get much time outside of polo, but whenever I do, I will usually find myself with a football at my feet!
Most prized possession?
I don’t have an item in mind, but my parents are my favourite people on this Earth if that counts! They are both my best friends and I have such a great relationship with them. I never go a day without speaking to my parents on the phone.
Favourite celebrity and why?
Tom Hanks – I love every movie he is in, purely for the sound of his voice!
Best holiday destination & activity?
I love going to Ireland with my family. My mum’s side of the family is all Irish and we have a family home in Galway that we go to all the time.
Best pony and why?
I have a mare called Top Secret which I bought from the Newmarket sales as a three-year-old and I made her myself. She is now six years old and although she is still young, she has shown so much potential and has consistently been my best playing horse this season. She is tall, but she rides small and is very fast and agile. She has such a strong personality and just craves attention and love from everyone around her.
Are you passionately superstitious?
I would like to say no, but I definitely am! I wore the same whites, underwear, socks and trainers going to every Gold Cup game as I didn’t want to change a thing and risk losing!
Describe yourself in three words? Hardworking, fun, dedicated.
One thing which would surprise us about you?
I have a degree in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management.
“…nothing short of a paradise.”
“…a word class polo destination for any fanatic.”