$IFTUFSUPOT 1PMP JO UIF 1BSL r
OFFICIAL EVENT MAGAZINE
TITLE SPONSOR
TEAM SPONSORS ®
®
Proud sponsor of
Chestertons Polo in the Park
INTERNATIONAL TEAM SPONSORS
EVENT SPONSORS
EVENT PARTNERS
WITH TH ANKS TO
2017 r POLO IN THE PARK
03
WELCOME
Welcome to Chestertons Polo in the Park 2017
I
t gives me great pleasure to welcome you
supported since the very start in 2010, it has been exciting
to Chestertons Polo in the Park 2017, and
to be part of and watch the event grow into what has now
to say how proud we are to continue our
become the largest tournament of its kind in the world.
title sponsorship of this fantastic event.
I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge
One of the original aims of this event
the brilliance of everyone who has dedicated their time,
was to make a once exclusive sport
effort and expertise bringing this incredible event to the
accessible to all, without losing the art, skill, intensity,
heart of London; and thank all the other sponsors, partners
and rawness of the traditional game. I believe it has
and local residents for their support in making Chestertons
more than achieved this: Chestertons Polo in the Park
Polo in the Park one of London’s best annual events.
has transformed the sport and brought a new format of
I wish you all a memorable and enjoyable day, if you
polo, specially created for an urban setting, to the very
would like to meet the Chestertons team or try your luck
heart of London, creating an easy to follow, action packed
at some of the competitions we are running throughout
sporting display devoted purely to your enjoyment.
the weekend, please visit our pop-up branch near the food
Whilst Chestertons is a global business with over 80
court where our friendly staff will be on hand to help you.
offices across the world, we maintain a strong focus on the communities in which we are working. For instance, through our 32 London branches, we support around 100 local events, schools, charities and community groups including the Royal Academy of Arts, Dogs Trust, London Welsh Amateur Rugby Club and St Mungo’s. However, Chestertons Polo in the Park is the largest event we are involved with and one that we have
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CHESTERTONS r
Allan Collins Group Chief Executive Officer
WELCOME
Welcome from the Sportgate Team
F
rom a daring concept born
Sawai Padmanabh Singh, who brings an exciting
seven years ago to the largest
Champions Polo League team with him from India to
three-day polo tournament in
take on the England polo team.
the world, Chestertons Polo
The ‘modern’ game of polo saw its rules officially
in the Park continues to go
agreed at Hurlingham Park over 140 years ago and up
from strength to strength. On
until 1939 the England polo team played most of their
behalf of the fantastic team at Sportgate responsible for
International matches here. Olympic polo tournaments
staging this unique celebration of ‘the game of kings’, I
were twice hosted on this very park. Throughout this
am delighted to welcome you all again to Hurlingham.
golden period, the Jaipur polo team maintained the
We have worked really hard this year to improve
longest winning streak in British polo.
your experience, and I hope that you will enjoy the
To have the England team playing again at
abundance of bars, food, gardens and entertainment
Hurlingham Park against such an illustrious opponent is
– as well as our innovative format for the game of polo,
an historic moment. Equally historic is the fact that we
designed specifically for a city audience.
welcome Hazel Jackson to the Team England line-up –
As ever, I am delighted to welcome Chestertons back as the event’s Title Sponsor. Chestertons continues to grow
she is surely an inspiration for all those aspiring female polo players out there!
as London’s leading premium estate agent, and we continue
Hopefully you will enjoy the game and continue to
to be extremely grateful for the tremendous creativity,
follow England polo as they play around the country this
enthusiasm and support they bring. They have been an
summer. It is important that we all continue to support
integral part of the Polo in the Park brand for seven years
the Hurlingham Polo Association as they nurture the
and we are proud to be part of such a long-standing and
development, integrity and modernisation of our game.
successful relationship. I would also like to say thank you to all our other sponsors, who make this event possible.
I hope that you have a great day out and thank you for supporting us.
This year sees the return of six polo teams representing cities from around the world. It is hugely exciting to see teams representing cities from a diverse range of nations, such as UAE, Argentina, Mauritius, South Africa and Switzerland. In particular, I would like to welcome HH Maharaja
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CHESTERTONS r
Rory Heron MD, Sportgate International
Princess 40M – M/Y ANKA
E X P E R I E N C E T H E E X C E P T I O N A L® P R I N C E S S YA C H T S . C O M
CITY POLO MEET THE TEAMS MINT TEAM LONDON 28 ARGENTEX TEAM DUBAI 32
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WELCOME! A word from our title sponsor
16
PHOTOCALL International stars strike a pose
GALLERY GET THE BIGGER PICTURE Polo, full frame 08
EFG TEAM ZURICH 44
HH Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh on duty for India. Page 72
MAURITIUS TEAM PORT LOUIS 62
OVERVIEW What is Chestertons Polo in the Park all about? 22
INTERNATIONAL POLO
FEATURES GET THE POLO LOOK Fashion inspired by the game of kings 52 HAVE-A-GO HERO Honeysuckle Weeks makes her polo debut 62
POLO DEBUT Honeysuckle catches the polo bug
FILL YOUR (POLO!) BOOTS Everything you need to know about starting out in the sport, but were too polite to ask 68
52
PONY EXPRESS International polo pro/McLaren racing driver job-swap 80
FASHION Polo inspired
AIR EUROPA TEAM BUENOS AIRES 40
EVENT INFO
MAP AND RETAIL INFO Where to shop, and what to look for 92
62
HOLA POLO Spanish lessons
WHITLEY NEILL TEAM CAPE TOWN 36
SCHEDULE Check what’s on and when 26
Will London see its name in lights? Page 28
70
HISTORY OF HURLINGHAM Find out why Hurlingham Park is central to the story of world polo 84 BLUFFER’S GUIDE How to watch polo like a pro 98
80
JOB SWAP Racer vs. Rider
HISTORY IN THE MAKING An Indian team takes on England for the first time in 70 years at Hurlingham 72
MEET THE TEAMS CHAMPIONS POLO LEAGUE INDIA 76 ICM CAPITAL TEAM ENGLAND 78
CITY POLO RULES OUR A-TO-Z GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING ON THE PITCH 95
84 HURLINGHAM A colourful past, in black and white
Chestertons Polo in the Park 2017 magazine is produced in association with Sportgate International, and published by the team behind Polo Quarterly – polo’s oldest and best-loved magazine.
Want to talk to ‘polo people’? Try Polo Quarterly first. Editor-in-chief: Aurora Eastwood (aurora@pqinternational.com) Executive editor: Chris Rosamond (chris@pqinternational.com) Advertising sales: +44 (0)1903 882394 (ads@pqinternational.com) Editorial enquiries +44 (0)1962 888569 Graphic design: Jo Evernden (www.joevernden.com) Printing: Pureprint Group, Uckfield, TN22 1PH, UK Polo Quarterly International is published by: Blue Pony Media, South Wonston Farm, SO21 3HL, UK www.facebook.com/pqinternational Thank you for supporting Chestertons Polo in the Park.
2017 r POLO IN THE PARK
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GALLERY
To the winners the spoils... Hooves thunder across Hurlingham Park as Mandarin Oriental Team Hong Kong beat Jnan Amar Polo Club Team Marrakech 3-2 in the 2016 Chestertons Polo in the Park final. Who will scoop the 2017 win? Team listings - page 26
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CHESTERTONS r
2017 r POLO IN THE PARK
13
GALLERY
Pidus Exhilarating ut alictur, thrills od of the eostiae chase pelesse Illuptati The finest is mosam thoroughbred vendel id Argentine quat quate polo ponies pe seque being eumgiven vit plaborerit their heads vellupt is a sight iorepelibus to set anyone’s experisheart si racing tendunt, – at Chestertons volest, sunt, Polonitius in the amPark ese dolor you’resitaest always omnimus closer toaercil the action. et mi, quam Eventfacernatia schedule -ditaes page que 26 consed et, te quunt, seditatibus niminullic
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CHESTERTONS r
2017 r POLO IN THE PARK
15
GALLERY
Centre-court skills One of England’s brightest young stars – 6 goaler Jack Richardson – demonstrates advanced ball control with a shot that wouldn’t look out of place at Wimbledon. City Polo rules – page 95 16
CHESTERTONS r
2017 r POLO IN THE PARK
17
GALLERY
Hurlingham history in the making His Highness Maharaja Padmanabh Singh, who leads his team into battle at Chestertons Polo in the Park on International Friday, poses with Hazel Jackson who is playing for ICM Team England. For more turn to page 72
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CHESTERTONS r
2017 r POLO IN THE PARK
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OV E RV I E W
Chestertons Polo in the Park 2017 – summer starts now! The season opener for London’s social sporting calendar is bigger, bolder and better than ever
Ladies, gentlemen and players
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CHESTERTONS r
C
ombining world-class sport, a host of London’s most exciting restaurants and Europe’s longest outdoor bar, Chestertons Polo in the Park is the perfect setting for polo fans and London’s social society to kick-off their summer season in style. Played under simplified rules that create a faster and action-packed game, the event is the ideal introduction to polo for those new to the sport. Over the three action-packed days, six teams representing cities from all over the globe will battle to be crowned the victors of $IFTUFSUPOT 1PMP JO UIF 1BSL 5IF SPVOE SPCJO TUZMF UPVSOBNFOU JT played under the HPA-endorsed City Polo rules, developed to maximise spectator enjoyment. The sporting action gets off to the perfect start on International Friday, when the England polo team returns to the spiritual home of polo, Hurlingham Park, to face a thrilling challenge from India led by the poloobsessed young heir to the throne in Royal Jaipur – His Highness Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh.
r POLO IN THE PARK
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OV E RV I E W
Chestertons Polo in the Park features world-class action... Saturday is Ladies Day, which has fast become one of the most desired tickets in the London social calendar as Hurlingham Park overflows with champagne and the summer’s most stylish outfits. Finals Day on Sunday sees the crowning of the winner of Chestertons Polo in the Park 2017. This last day of action is perfect for all ages, with fun and interactive activities for children taking place for the whole morning before the hotly contested polo gets underway. Judged on visitor numbers alone, Chestertons Polo in the Park has grown to become the world’s most successful celebration of the sport of polo. And with around 30,000 visitors expected over the event weekend, all the stops have been pulled out to help make it one to remember.
The usual feast of pitch-side entertainment ensures spectators will be treated to a day of non-stop action both on and off the field. An array of exclusive bars provide quintessential locations to enjoy world class polo and music, whilst sipping a thirst-quenching cocktail or a glass of champagne. For those with withdrawal symptoms from the Kings Road, there is an onsite shopping village selling unique luxury items. Following its runaway success in 2016, the Grazing Paddock, polo’s greatest pop-up food festival, has returned bigger and even tastier this year with many of London’s most sensational restaurants lining up to help ensure that fans of Chestertons Polo in the Park 2017 are fed and watered like polo royalty.
...and there’s plenty to keep the fans occupied between games, too
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CHESTERTONS r
retailers.mclaren.com
EVENT SCHEDULE
It’s showtime! With so much world-class action lined up, you won’t want to miss a thing...
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CHESTERTONS r
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CITY POLO
MEET THE TEAMS
MINT Team London
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CHESTERTONS r
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Indisputably one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities, London has always welcomed visitors from far-off lands. 8IJDI NFBOT BT IPTU DJUZ GPS UIF FWFOU -POEPO T HSBDJPVT IPTQJUBMJUZ DBO CF UBLFO GPS HSBOUFE 0GG UIF GJFME PG QMBZ UIBU JT 8IFO UIF XIJTUMF CMPXT UIBU #SJUJTI CVMMEPH TQJSJU XJMM CF PGG UIF MFBTI BOE XJUI B UFBN DPNQSJTJOH &OHMBOE TRVBE TUBMXBSUT (FPSHF .FZSJDL BOE .BMDPMN #PSXJDL XF DBO FYQFDU B IBSE GPVHIU CBUUMF %PO U VOEFSFTUJNBUF 3JDBSEP 3JDIFSU FJUIFS
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CITY POLO
MINT Team London
NAME: 3JDP 3JDIFSU
NAME: (FPSHF .FZSJDL
NAME: .BMDPMN #PSXJDL
NICKNAME: 1PMEJ
NICKNAME: $IVCCT
NICKNAME: .BMDT
HANDICAP:
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Players: Questions and Answers... WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURIT E HORSE AND WHY ?
AND THE WORST THING ABOU T B EING A POLO PLAYER?
George: * EPO U MJLF UP QJDL GBWPVSJUFT * XPVMEO U XBOU UP VQTFU UIF PUIFST Malcolm: *SJTI BO "VTUSBMJBO UIPSPVHICSFE EJTDBSEFE CZ CSFFEFST XIP IBT CFDPNF B DIBNQJPO Rico: -B %VEB B HSFZ CFBVUZ
Malcolm: 5IF GBMMT JU IVSUT DPNJOH PGG BU NQI GSPN IBMG B UPOOF PG IPSTF Rico: 5PP NBOZ ##2T George: #FJOH BXBZ GSPN IPNF TP NVDI
WHAT’S THE BEST BIT ABOUT CHESTERTO NS POLO IN THE PARK?
George: .Z HJSMGSJFOE *TBCFMMB Rico: .Z XJGF (Well done chaps!) Malcolm: #FSOJF &DDFMTUPOF NBZCF * DPVME QFSTVBEF IJN UP TFU VQ B 'PSNVMB DJSDVJU GPS QPMP
Rico: 'VO QPMP BOE GBTIJPO Malcolm: #FJOH TP DMPTF BOE JOUFSBDUJOH XJUI UIF DSPXE George: 5IF BUNPTQIFSF
THE COOLEST THING ABOUT BE ING A POLO PLAYER? Malcolm: 'SPN .POHPMJB UP .PNCBTB QPMP JT QMBZFE BMM PWFS UIF XPSME BOE JU T HJWFO NF B DIBODF UP TFF B MPU *U T B KPC NPTU QFPQMF XPVME MPWF UP EP BT B IPCCZ George: 5SBWFMMJOH BOE TFFJOH UIF XPSME Rico: "MXBZT IBWJOH BO FYDVTF UP USBWFM UIF XPSME
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CHESTERTONS r
WHO WOUL D B E YO UR IDEAL DINNER DAT E?
HOW WOUL D YOU DES CR IBE POLO TO SOME ONE WHO ’S NEVER SEEN IT? Malcolm: 4ZMWFTUFS 4UBMMPOF PODF EFTDSJCFE JU BT USZJOH UP QMBZ HPMG EVSJOH BO FBSUIRVBLF 5IF TQFFE BUIMFUJDJTN BOE UFBNXPSL NBLF JU UIF CFTU TQPSU JO UIF XPSME George: 2VJEEJUDI PO IPSTFCBDL Rico: *U T B NJYUVSF PG 8JNCMFEPO 8FNCMFZ BOE UIF #BUUMF PG 8BUFSMPP
Mint Partners is proud to sponsor Team London at Polo in the Park MINT Partners, a division of BGC Brokers L.P. (“MINT�) is built on a refreshingly different approach best described as ‘live and direct’. Predominantly voice based, we provide superior wholesale brokerage services and trading support with a global reach. Highly energised, the team has an enviable reputation for dynamic solutions across an impressive client base.
CITY POLO
Argentex Team Dubai
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CHESTERTONS r
MEET THE TEAMS
Towering skyscrapers define the landscape of this jewel of Arabia, but does the cohort of players representing Team Dubai have the stature to dominate the rest of the competition at Chestertons Polo in the Park? 1BLJTUBO T GJOFTU QPMP FYQPSU )JTTBN "MJ )ZEFS JT B DIBSBDUFS PO BOE PGG UIF GJFME )JHIMZ UBMFOUFE BOE MJHIUOJOH RVJDL IF MM IBWF ZPVOH XIJQQFSTOBQQFS (FPSHF 4QFODFS $IVSDIJMM BOE OPU TP ZPVOH XIJQQFSTOBQQFS %BWF "MMFO XPSLJOH IBSEFS UIBO B CPSEFS DPMMJF PO B 8FMTI NPVOUBJOTJEF
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CITY POLO
Argentex Team Dubai
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NAME: (FPSHF 4QFODFS $IVSDIJMM
NAME: %BWJE "MMFO
NAME: )JTTBN "MJ )ZEFS
NICKNAME: 4VOEZ
NICKNAME: 4USFUDI
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Players Questions and Answers... WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURIT E HORSE AND WHY ?
AND THE WORST THING ABOU T B EING A POLO PLAYER?
George: 4NVSG * WF IBE IFS TJODF UIF CFHJOOJOH BOE TIF T BT HPPE BT FWFS David: 4VTQFDU )F T UIF GJSTU IPSTF * WF CSFE BOE IJT NPUIFS XBT NZ GJSTU QPMP QPOZ Hissam: 1BNQFSP NZ GJSTU IPSTF GSPN "SHFOUJOB
George: 5IF FOEMFTT ESJWJOH CFUXFFO QPMP NBUDIFT David: )BWJOH UP QMBZ PO TPNF CBE GJFMET Hissam: )POFTUMZ UIFSF T OPU NVDI XSPOH XJUI JU
WHAT’S THE BEST BIT ABOUT CHESTERTO NS POLO IN THE PARK?
David: "NCFS 3VEE BU UIF )PNF 0GGJDF * E MJLF UP IBWF B DIBU XJUI IFS BCPVU QPMP Hissam: 3PHFS 'FEFSFS George: 4BDIB #BSPO $PIFO
David: * DBO U XBJU UP GJOE PVU George: 5IF JOWPMWFNFOU PG UIF DSPXE NBLFT JU TQFDJBM Hissam: 1MBZJOH JO UIF NJEEMF PG -POEPO JT BNB[JOH
WHO WOUL D B E YO UR IDEAL DINNER DAT E?
THE COOLEST THING ABOUT BE ING A POLO PLAYER?
HOW WOUL D YOU DES CR IBE POLO TO SOME ONE WHO ’S NEVER SEEN IT?
Hissam: 'PMMPXJOH UIF TVO David: 3JEJOH HSFBU IPSTFT George: 'PMMPXJOH BOE QMBZJOH UIF HBNF JOUFSOBUJPOBMMZ
George: *ODSFEJCMZ GBTU BOE FYDJUJOH Hissam: 5IF CFTU TQPSU JO UIF XPSME David: *U T UIF HSFBUFTU TQPSU UIFSF JT
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CHESTERTONS r
CITY POLO
MEET THE TEAMS
Whitley Neill Team Cape Town
36
CHESTERTONS r
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37
CITY POLO
Whitley Neill Team Cape Town
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Players Questions and Answers... WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURIT E HORSE AND WHY ?
AND THE WORST THING ABOU T B EING A POLO PLAYER?
Jamie: 2 CFDBVTF IF IBT TVDI B HSFBU DIBSBDUFS Joaquin: * IBWF B GFX GBWPVSJUFT BMM BSF IPSTFT UIBU * WF CSFE NZTFMG BU IPNF JO "SHFOUJOB Charlie: 1JDBTTB 4IF T GBTU BOE OFWFS MFUT NF EPXO
Charlie: )BWJOH BMXBZT UP CF PO UJNF Joaquin: (FUUJOH JOKVSFE NBZCF Jamie: %FGJOJUFMZ UIF JOKVSJFT
WHAT’S THE BEST BIT ABOUT CHESTERTO NS POLO IN THE PARK?
Joaquin: $IBSMJF 8PPMESJEHF Charlie: .Z TPO 0BL (Sorry Joaquin!) Jamie: $ISJT 3PDL BOE $ISJT 5VDLFS
Charlie: * WF XPO JU UISFF UJNFT JO B SPX Joaquin: 5IF DSPXE *U T BNB[JOH JO UIF TNBMM BSFOB Jamie: 1MBZJOH BU )VSMJOHIBN JT TQFDJBM BOE UIF DSPXE NBLFT JU TP NVDI NPSF GVO
THE COOLEST THING ABOUT BE ING A POLO PLAYER? Joaquin: 5SBWFMMJOH Jamie: 5IF QMBDFT XF HP BOE QFPQMF XF NFFU Charlie: "MM PG JU
38
CHESTERTONS r
WHO WOUL D B E YO UR IDEAL DINNER DAT E?
HOW WOUL D YOU DES CR IBE POLO TO SOME ONE WHO ’S NEVER SEEN IT? Jamie: 3FBMMZ JU T KVTU FJHIU MVOBUJDT GMZJOH EPXO UIF GJFME TNBTIJOH FBDI PUIFS Joaquin: "EEJDUJWF Charlie: 'BTU BOE GVSJPVT
CITY POLO
MEET THE TEAMS
Air Europa Team Buenos Aires
40
CHESTERTONS r
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CITY POLO
Air Europa Team Buenos Aires
LOW-RES IMAGES
NAME: Carlos Rodriguez Sanudo
NAME: Javier Cabrera Castilla
NAME: Juan Cruz Guevara
NICKNAME: Not telling...
NICKNAME: No comment!
NICKNAME: Juancho
HANDICAP: 1
HANDICAP: 5
HANDICAP: 5
Players Questions and Answers... WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURIT E HORSE AND WHY ?
AND THE WORST THING ABOU T B EING A POLO PLAYER?
Carlos: It’s hard to pick – I have a few very good ones. Juan: Estrella. She is fast, and so good that I don’t have to think. She’s competitive and has the biggest heart. Javier: The one who helps me score the winning goal.
Javier: Nothing. Carlos: Falling off at 40mph. Juan: Nothing.
WHAT’S THE BEST BIT ABOUT CHESTERTO NS POLO IN THE PARK?
Juan: Penelope Cruz. Javier: Justin Beiber. Carlos: My teammates after a good win.
Javier: I’ve heard it’s unlike anything, but it’s my first. Carlos: Showing polo to a wide audience is great for the sport. Juan: The crowd at Hurlingham makes it different to any other polo game.
THE COOLEST THING ABOUT BE ING A POLO PLAYER? Carlos: Everything? Juan: Being on a horse, and doing what I love most. Javier: It never feels like work, because you love it.
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CHESTERTONS r
WHO WOUL D B E YO UR IDEAL DINNER DAT E?
HOW WOUL D YOU DES CR IBE POLO TO SOME ONE WHO ’S NEVER SEEN IT? Carlos: One of the most exciting, fastest sports there is. Javier: Hockey on horses. Juan: Completely addictive. Breathtaking.
CITY POLO
MEET THE TEAMS
EFG Team Zurich
44
CHESTERTONS r
1IPUPHSBQI ¥;¾3*$) 5063*4.
Tick-tock, tick-tock… Switzerland, renowned as the home of fine watchmaking, but will the regularity and precision of Team Zurich result in a neat succession of goals? 8JMM EJTDJQMJOF BOE DPOUSPM QSFWBJM BOE XJMM UIF UFBN QMBZ BT TNPPUIMZ BT B QFSGFDUMZ SFHVMBUFEw DMPDL 8JUI #SJUBJO T CFTU BSFOB QMBZFS $ISJT )ZEF BOE POF PG #SJUBJO T IJHIFTU IBOEJDBQQFE QMBZFST .BY $IBSMUPO PO UIF TBNF TJEF EPO U VOEFSFTUJNBUF UIJT UFBN .BY ,JSDIPGG JT BMTP QSFUUZ FYQFSJFODFE TP JU T B XFMM CBMBODFE TJEF
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CITY POLO
EFG Team Zurich
NAME: .BYJNJMJBO ,JSDIIPGGň
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NAME: $ISJT )ZEF
NICKNAME: .BYJ
NICKNAME: 4OBY
NICKNAME: 5IF 1SPG
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Players Questions and Answers... WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURIT E HORSE AND WHY ?
AND THE WORST THING ABOU T B EING A POLO PLAYER?
Maximilian: 4PUBMMZ 5PCFS JU DBNF JO BU GPS NF BU UIF BU ,FNQUPO Max: 1JYJF 4IF JT GBTU BHJMF BOE OFWFS MFUT NF EPXO Chris: )BOTFM CFDBVTF IF T CFFO UIF CFTU WBMVF GPS NPOFZ
Maximilian: 5IF USBWFMMJOH Chris: 5IF FYQFOTF Max: #FJOH IJU CZ B IBSE QMBTUJD CBMM GMZJOH BU NQI
WHAT’S THE BEST BIT ABOUT CHESTERTO NS POLO IN THE PARK?
Max: .Z NVN (Aww...) Chris: /P DPNNFOU Maximilian: )FMFO PG 5SPZ * E MJLF UP LOPX XIBU BMM UIF GVTT XBT BCPVU
Chris: )BWJOH UIF DSPXE TP DMPTF NBLFT UIF BUNPTQIFSF FMFDUSJD Max: * MPWF UIF DSPXE BOE UIF BUNPTQIFSF UPP Maximilian: *U T B WFSZ TIPSU XBML IPNF
THE COOLEST THING ABOUT BE ING A POLO PLAYER? Max: "QQBSFOUMZ NPTU QFPQMF EPO U MPWF HPJOH UP XPSL FWFSZ EBZ Maximilian: 5IF USBWFMMJOH Chris: &BSOJOH B MJWJOH GSPN TPNFUIJOH * MPWF
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WHO WOUL D B E YO UR IDEAL DINNER DAT E?
Sponsors of leading polo teams and events. Photo: EFG Bank – Aravali Team, www.imagesofpolo.com
Playing on our strengths to deliver first-class performance. Comprehensive private banking solutions; solid range of investment and advisory services; delivered one relationship at a time.
HOW WOUL D YOU DES CR IBE POLO TO SOME ONE WHO ’S NEVER SEEN IT? Chris: 5IF NPTU GVO ZPV DBO IBWF PO GPVS MFHT Maximilian: 5IF CFTU UIJOH ZPV DBO EP XJUI DMPUIFT PO Max: 1MBZFST BOE IPSTFT HPJOH FWFSZXIFSF GBTU
EFG International’s global private banking network operates in around 40 locations worldwide, including Zurich, Geneva, Lugano, London, Madrid, Milan, Monaco, Luxembourg, Hong Kong, Singapore, Miami, Bogotá and Montevideo. In the United Kingdom, EFG Private Bank Limited’s principal place of business and registered office is located at Leconfield House, Curzon Street, London W1J 5JB, T + 44 20 7491 9111. EFG Private Bank Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. EFG Private Bank Limited is a member of the London Stock Exchange. Registered in England and Wales as no. 2321802. EFG Private Bank Ltd is a subsidiary of EFG International. www.efginternational.com
CITY POLO
MEET THE TEAMS
Mauritius Team Port Louis
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1IPUPHSBQI AMIT MEHRA
Think of Mauritius and it’s the sun-kissed beaches that usually inspire, but the team representing Port Louis will be putting thoughts of sun, sea – and hopefully even kissing – firmly to the back of their minds as they battle for glory at Chestertons Polo in the Park. /P UJNF UP MPVOHF BSPVOE TJQQJOH DPDLUBJMT GPS UIF UFBN NJE QMBZ FJUIFS UIBU T TUSJDUMZ GPS UIF BQS�T QPMP POMZ "OFF[ .BOKJ T UFBN PG /BDIP (PO[BMF[ EPO U CF GPPMFE CZ UIF OBNF IF T B #SJU BOE 1BDP 0 %XZFS XIP DPOGVTJOHMZ EFTQJUF UIF TVSOBNF JT OPU BSF BMTP WFSZ TUSPOH BOE UIF UPVSOBNFOU QSJ[F DPVME HP UP UIJT .BVSJUJVT 5FBN 1PSU -PVJT PVUGJU BT XFMM BT BOZ PUIFS
r 10-0 */ 5)& 1"3,
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CITY POLO
Mauritius Team Port Louis
“From one citizen you gather the idea that Mauritius was made first, and then heaven; and that heaven was copied after Mauritius.� Mark Twain, April 1896
NAME: "OFF[ .BOKJ
NAME: "MFKBOESP (PO[BMF[
NAME: 1BUSJDL 0 %XZFS
NICKNAME: 5PP FNCBSSBTTJOH
NICKNAME: /BDIP
NICKNAME: 1BDP
HANDICAP:
HANDICAP:
HANDICAP:
Players Questions and Answers... WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURIT E HORSE AND WHY ?
AND THE WORST THING ABOU T B EING A POLO PLAYER?
Aneez: 5BSB TIF T GBTU CVU BHJMF Alejandro: * MPWF UIFN BMM Patrick: 3BUJUB CFDBVTF TIF T WFSZ MPZBM BOE OFWFS HJWFT VQ PO B QMBZ
Aneez: -PTJOH "OE HFUUJOH IVSU Patrick: )BWJOH UP QMBZ DIVLLBT XJUI NZ HJSMGSJFOE Alejandro: 'BMMJOH PGG
WHAT’S THE BEST BIT ABOUT CHESTERTO NS POLO IN THE PARK?
Alejandro: "MM NZ GBNJMZ Patrick: .Z HJSMGSJFOE .BHHVJF BOE NBZCF -FP .FTTJ Aneez: %POBME 5SVNQ &WFSZ EJOOFS QBSUZ OFFET B KFTUFS
Patrick: * MPPL GPSXBSE UP GJOEJOH PVU Aneez: (PPE DIBNQBHOF UP DFMFCSBUF B HPPE XJO Alejandro: 5IF BUNPTQIFSF JT BNB[JOH
THE COOLEST THING ABOUT BE ING A POLO PLAYER? Alejandro: 3JEJOH HPPE IPSTFT BOE USBWFMMJOH UIF XPSME Patrick: :PV DBO TQFOE BMM EBZ SJEJOH IPSTFT Aneez: 5IF DPNQFUJUJPO BOE UIF DBNBSBEFSJF
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WHO WOUL D B E YO UR IDEAL DINNER DAT E?
HOW WOUL D YOU DES CR IBE POLO TO SOME ONE WHO ’S NEVER SEEN IT? Patrick: " USVF UFBN TQPSU )PSTF BOE QMBZFS CFDPNF POF Alejandro: " UPUBM BESFOBMJOF SVTI Aneez: % BJS IPDLFZ XJUI DPMMBUFSBM EBNBHF
Our island boasts luxurious beaches, pristine landscapes, a sunny climate,a rich heritage and the cultural wealth of its warm-hearted people. Offering an amazing combination of relaxation and exhilarating activities, Mauritius indeed defines perfection all year round. Discover for yourself new horizons brimming with unforgettable experiences and an uplifting sense of the sweetness and joy of living.
Download our mobile app for free !
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FA S H I O N
On the pitch or off, La Martina style channels passion for polo
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hile long-time players may associate La Martina with fine quality kit, saddles and equipment, in more recent times the company’s vision to spread the polo gospel has seen it launch new fashion and lifestyle lines. The La Martina ‘look’ uniquely channels the spirit and challenge of the game. In fact, La Martina has a bold strategy to promote accessibility and engagement with polo to new audiences around the world. As a corporate philosophy we think that chimes perfectly with calls from other quarters for new and innovative thinking, and it should be celebrated by all who love the sport. After all, when did ‘philosophy’ ever look this good?
HER: JACKET (£645.00), BLOUSE (£115), TROUSERS (£140) HIM: JEREMIAH JACKET (£465), BROCK T-SHIRT (£55), LUCIANO SLIM-FIT TROUSERS (£136)
Photography LA MARTINA Words POLO QUARTERLY
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FA S H I O N
THE LA MARTINA PHI LOSOPHY If there’s a single fashion brand synonymous with the world of polo, it’s La Martina. Established in Buenos "JSFT JO NPTU QMBZFST XIP BSF established in the sport today have grown up alongside it. The family-run company with its roots in Buenos Aires OPX IBT TUPSFT XPSMEXJEF XJUI HQs in BA, Miami and Chiasso, and branches in London and Singapore. “Fair play, honesty, respect for opponents, honour and responsibility to the team and the staff are some of the fundamental values of polo. La Martina understands polo is a passion, a lifestyle choice, and an historic sport with culture that needs to be protected and preserved,” they say. To that end, La Martina continues to supported clubs, associations, pros and amateurs – both ‘aspiring’ and ‘aspirational’ – as well as the many small family-run businesses that it partners.
HER: CANDIDA SWEATER (£205), ALFONSINA LACE HANDBAG (£372)
Adrian Simonetti (left), Lando Simonetti, Gachi Ferrari, Ignacio Archain and the young Santino Simonetti – the La Martina family
HIM: T-SHIRT (£120), EVERETT CHINO BERMUDA SHORTS (£225)
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FA S H I O N HIM: natty pink
INCREASING jacket, £199 ACCESSIBILITY OF POL O La HER: Martina wallpaperhas various programmes designed to extend inspired print dress the reach of the sport £499 we love, including with the Oxbridge universities – and others around the world – designed to tempt more young players into the game. The brand has also been associated with Chesterton’s Polo in the Park for many years, where it has played a valuable supporting role in bringing the thrills and culture of polo to new audiences, and breaking down those old elitist barriers. La Martina is also unleashing a wave of social media content via fashion and lifestyle influencers and the #LMpolostory hash-tag, all part of the plan to connect with a wider world beyond the polo ‘establishment’.
Before/after – visiting fashion bloggers get the La Martina look on a visit to Milan
HER: ALTEA JACKET (£765), SHORTS (£155) HIM: DIONE SHIRT (£230)
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FA S H I O N HER: GINEBRA SKIRT (£175), LEYA JACKET (£175), FIRULETE HANDBAG (£295) HIM: JACKET (£485), SCARF (£54)
LIFE IMITA TES PO LO WIT H THE LA MARTINA L OOK La Martina’s Coleccion Privada fashion MJOF XBT MBVODIFE JO GSPN UIFJS platform as the world’s leading supplier of polo technical kit and sportswear. The replica polo shirt has long been a La Martina favourite, and the fashion collections since then have always reflected the players’ styles – and their wardrobe staples. For this year’s spring/summer collection, a Mediterranean cruise adds further inspiration. With imaginary stops at Barcelona, Capri, St Tropez and Santorini, La Martina promises “a sensory journey through colours, landscapes and cultural heritage,” brought to life through the collection’s “bright dyes, light textures, prints and patterns”.
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P O L O ACA D E M Y
I’M ELATED BY THE EXPERIENCE, I’VE DEFINITELY BEEN BITTEN BY THE POLO BUG!
Have-a-go
hero Foyle’s War star Honeysuckle Weeks cracks polo in a morning at the Ham Polo Club academy Photography ALEX P Words CHRIS ROSAMOND
A
glamorous heroine galloping full tilt across the polo field, stick carried bravely aloft, a steely glint in her eye as the opposing side is put to rout‌ in our mind’s eye, we knew this challenge was no job for a mere ‘celebrity’. Because not just anyone can pick up a polo stick and set-to like an Argentine gaucho. Our game demands passion and zest. It requires optimism, integrity, and grit. A sense of fair play, and compassion for your fellow man and animals. Polo is, without question, the perfect sporting pastime for old-fashioned heroes. Which is why we’ve invited Samantha Stewart to Ham Polo Club, a secret garden of tranquillity just upriver from bustling Richmond. Ham counts itself not just the oldest surviving polo club in London, but the only one. With its timeless charm of neatly mowed lawns, the clippety-clopping of hooves around the stable yard and blackbirds twittering in the hedges, on non-match days it’s easy to picture the have-ago heroine of long-running ITV drama Foyle’s War turning up in khaki uniform at the wheel of her boss’s official Wolseley. It’s not Samantha of course, but Honeysuckle Weeks who jumps out of the taxi. She’s the immensely talented actress who portrayed Samantha’s forgotten-era innocence, sunny disposition and jolly hockey sticks enthusiasm on the
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TNBMM TDSFFO GPS NPSF UIBO ZFBST "MM XJUI TVDI FOHBHJOH authenticity, it’s hard to believe Honeysuckle and Sam aren’t two peas in a pod. Which, as she’s here for her very first polo lesson, is rather what we’re hoping. Honeysuckle laughs reassuringly. “Oh, we’re massively alike. We both share a love of adrenaline inducing pursuits, that’s for sure, and I think Sam would have taken to polo like a duck to water.� Surprising as it may seem, many people start at Ham Polo Academy never having sat on a horse at all. Honeysuckle has ridden since she was a girl, but although kitted out for the role in jodhpurs and riding boots, we’re still some way from seeing her in the saddle. First, there’s an introduction to Ham’s resident instructor Mikey, who in turn introduces Honeysuckle to (shortened) polo stick and ball. The first task is at ground level – albeit astride an imaginary horse – and learning the basic swing by hitting the ball in stages across the pitch. “Everyone gets the hang of this by the time they reach the far side,� reckons Mikey. Honeysuckle decides not to wait that long, and her mallet is making confident contact with the ball at the halfway mark. Her final shot scoots across the grass and clonks into the boards with enough vigour to startle the blackbirds into silence. Her instructor appears impressed.
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P O L O ACA D E M Y IT’S MORE TO DO WITH PHYSICS THAN PHYSICAL PROWESS, WHICH IS WHY IT SUITS WOMEN JUST AS WELL AS MEN
Honeysuckle gets to grips with her backswing...
At last it’s time to put those new and carefully honed techniques into practice, from the saddle of a real, live polo pony – in this case, Pancha, a beautiful and temperate ZFBS PME "SHFOUJOF NBSF .PVOUFE VQ JU T UJNF GPS B bit of ‘stick and balling’, which is polo jargon for practising hitting the ball on horseback. A moving seat appears not to phase our hero at all, as she continues to connect mallet and ball with a strike rate well beyond Mikey’s expectation for a polo novice. She’s still buzzing with enthusiasm over lunch in the delightful Ham clubhouse after her lesson. Gazing out over quintessential scenes of grooms exercising horses, we wonder if the ability to ‘channel’ such apparently effortless ability is the hallmark of an accomplished acting professional? “Ha, I wish!� A broad grin suggests Honeysuckle finds the proposition amusing. “It helped immeasurably that I’d done eventing and tetrathlons as a teenager, as in the both disciplines there’s a level of precision involved in the riding. It also helps if your pony can turn on a sixpence – compared to the horses I’m used to, Pancha seems more finely tuned than a seismograph!
Next up, a horse. The wooden variety, but complete with saddle, stirrups and reins, and fixed to the floor in the middle of a small caged space with just enough room to swing a stick – it’s polo’s version of cricket nets or the golf driving range. Honeysuckle springs into the saddle and settles immediately into the required pose, reins gathered in the left hand and right hand cradling the stick. It soon transpires polo players carrying sticks high in the air are not being theatrical, as keeping a stick vertical reduces weight in the hand to almost nothing. It also allows gravity to do most of the work when swinging for the ball. “It’s the hardest thing to teach people coming into the sport,� says Mikey, “getting them to relax into the swing. Women tend to get the swing better as they learn earlier to let gravity do the work.� Honeysuckle isn’t saying much, but lets her stick do the talking. Albeit with occasional reminders and tweaks to her UFDIOJRVF XJUIJO NJOVUFT TIF T TMBNNJOH QPMP CBMMT JOUP the woodwork with a relentless display of natural talent that Mikey seems to find perplexing. “You’re sure you haven’t done this before..?� Honeysuckle can’t decide whether to grin triumphantly or to apologise for being unnaturally gifted, and settles for a little of both.
...and demonstrates an unerring eye for the ball
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P O L O ACA D E M Y Ham Polo Club Academy turns out another winnner!
“Playing golf or tennis is also a boon as it’s all about that pendulum swing. It seems to be a sport that’s more to do with physics than physical prowess, which is why it suits women just as much as men.� So might we all look forward to more Honeysuckle heroics on the polo field? “Oh yes! I’m totally elated by the whole experience, and I’ve definitely been bitten by the polo bug. There’s no mistaking the delightful ‘chock’ of a well hit shot, even if in my hands it was only once in every five!� We’d have put that number quite a lot higher, but then old-school heroics are always best served with a little understatement.
SAM STEWART – POSSIBL E P OLO STAR?
Pukka chukkas are also played at Ham Polo Club
Riding one-handed is an essential skill
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“Sam Stewart is the plucky driver to one Chief Superintendent Foyle. A sort of female Watson to his Holmes. “In the early days there is a naive incompetence about her, but I think she would have wised-up during all those years working in a police department, and hardened by the effects of the war, so you see a rather dramatic character progression. “I’m often asked what similarities there are between me and a character I played for over a decade PO BOE PGG BOE * XJTI * XBT BMXBZT BT immaculately turned out and knew how to fix cars with the turn of a wrench! “Sam would love polo. I can see her winning a hockey bully off, and she’s definitely the type to have kept a pony in her youth. So if there’s ever another series of Foyle’s War I’ll ask the writer to put in a scene where the villain is astride some Argentinian steed and needs an extra player for a chukka. Cue Sam onto the pitch‌ her mission? To win, and unmask foul play!â€? Honeysuckle Weeks
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P L AY T H E G A M E
Come and fill your (polo!) boots You’ve been to Chestertons Polo in the Park and fancy your chances. Now what?
POLO BEYOND THE CAP ITAL HAM PO LO CLUB - LONDON’S CHOICE The beautiful and historic Ham Polo Club is the obvious choice for Londoners with a zest for the game of kings, as it’s just a mile or two upstream from Richmond and is the only remaining polo club within the capital. (There used to be a dozen.) As with most clubs, Ham welcomes spectators on match days – and a tailgate picnic is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the sport while you pluck up the courage to have a go yourself. You can find out more about the Ham Polo Academy on the club’s website, but novice lessons with a friendly HPA-qualified instructor – including hire of a horse and all equipment – are surprisingly affordable, particularly when compared to other adrenaline-fueled activities. You can even book sessions as a group of friends to make the adventure still more fun. Find out everything you need to know at the Ham Polo Club website. www.hpclondonpolo.com
Polo in the UK (and around the world) is governed by the Hurlingham Polo Association, and to play you need to find an affiliated club. Fortunately, the HPA makes that easy, with a list on its website of all of them. So head over to www.hpa-polo.co.uk and follow the ‘Clubs’ link to search by your postcode. You’ll find the Home Counties and beyond are well-served by a range of clubs from the very upmarket ones like Guards Polo Club in Windsor Great Park (in spite of the name you don’t need a career in the Household Cavalry to learn the game there!) to well-known ‘country’ polo venues like Cowdray, Tidworth and Cirencester. Look beyond the big names though, and you’ll find a multitude of small local clubs and arena clubs, all offering a chance to get involved and at a range of different price levels. So come on, don’t be shy. Instead of just ‘wishing you could’, why not give polo a try!
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es, we know! Whether you’re a boy or a girl, you can’t help looking fabulous in tall leather riding boots and white polo jeans, and that’s surely as good a reason for taking up polo as any. It’s easier than you think to get involved, and you might just be harbouring hidden talents like actress Honeysuckle Weeks who we’ve featured trying the sport for the first time at the Ham Polo Club Academy. Like Honeysuckle, you’ll certainly have a great time finding out! In spite of its highfalutin image – whipped up by the media obsession with polo playing princes and the like – polo is a club - based sport filled with friendly people of all ages, abilities and ambitions. From children getting their start at Pony Club, to adult non-riders having their first taste of polo at corporate team-building days, once you’ve been bitten by the polo bug you’ll be hooked for life. It definitely helps to like horses, even more to love them, but that’s something that comes from getting to know them. You don’t even need to know how to ride yet, which makes the challenge of learning polo even more rewarding. Tempted? Of course you are… just think of those shiny new leather riding boots!
Honeysuckle did it, and so can you!
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You could learn the ropes at Ham Polo Club (above, and main pic), and enjoy the social scene too r POLO IN THE PARK
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Love polo & want more?
D I D Y O U E N J O Y TH E PO LO ? The what? I remember beautiful people and Lanson champagne…
Hell yes! Gimme more!
D O Y O U WA NT TO W AT CH, OR PL A Y? Hat hair? You must be joking...
Polo is great fun to watch, and it’s perfect for picnics with your friends. Lots of clubs do social membership. For that you get entry to the club (you may have to pay more for ‘big’ days), car passes, priority booking and discounted tickets. You also get to be part of a wonderful social circle.
HA M POL O CLUB WHERE: Richmond, London HOW MUCH: b b KPJOJOH GFF WHY: Location, location, location. (Plus it’s very friendly and, well... nice!)
GUARDS PO LO CLUB (PIC ABOVE) WHERE: Windsor, Berkshire HOW MUCH: b b KPJOJOH GFF WHY: The Queen goes there. And they play high goal. Need we say more? www.guardspoloclub.com
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You were fabulous, see you next year!
Bring it on, I want to get sweaty!
w
This season’s fixtures
Follow this handy Chestertons Polo in the Park flowchart to figure out your next play...
June Saturday 17th Sunday 18th Saturday 24th Sunday 25th
Ham Polo Club is the last remaining polo club in Greater London nestling alongside the fine Jacobean Ham House and between the banks of the Thames and historic Richmond Park. The Club boasts one of the busiest schedules in competitive polo and corporate and charity events as well as having a friendly clubhouse and full social calendar. If you or any of your family are interested in learning to play the sport of Kings, the Club runs ‘learn to play’ sessions for individuals or groups of all ages throughout the season. Please contact lessons@hampoloclub.com
For membership whether it is playing or social please contact office@hampoloclub.com www.hpclondonpolo.com
POLO WEL COMES YOU, AND YOU, AND YOU…. 1PMP JT B IVHFMZ XFMDPNJOH HBNF BOE UIFSF BSF TPNF DMVCT around the country. You can watch (and take part in) all levels of polo from very, very, low goal (grassroots level), to schools and uni polo, to Pony Club and then of course the higher levels. There really is something for everyone in polo. Polo isn’t all about champagne and fast cars; at grassroots level it is about beer and old hatchbacks, and very affordable – but at all levels, whether to watch or play, it’s great fun. Remember too, it doesn’t matter if the only horsepower you’ve experienced is at the wheel of a McLaren (or a Mini Metro). Nonriders are always welcome to try polo. Here’s a range of options:
HAM POL O CLUB (YES, AGAIN) LESSON COST: 'SPN b per hour - including a pony! www.hpclondonpolo.com
We look forward to welcoming you to Ham Polo Club.
July Sunday
2nd
Saturday 8th Sunday 9th
Sunday Saturday Sunday Sunday
16th 22nd 23rd 30th
Otherwise, go to www.hpa-polo.co.uk for a list of clubs – almost all of which have polo schools – and a list of approved coaches and instructors. Ebe Sievwright at Guards Polo Academy at Coworth Park is a top-of-the-range option for learners, but the further out from London you travel the more you can save. For example B HSPVQ MFTTPO DBO DPTU BT MJUUMF BT b BU PVUMZJOH DMVCT USZ www. hampshirepoloschool.co.uk) or you can do a half-day polo experience at participating clubs with www.poloexperiences.com GPS b 1PMP JT BT FYQFOTJWF BT ZPV XBOU UP NBLF JU
Peter Adams Agencies Summer Tournament Final Day Rosie Adams Bowl (Final) Rerrieson Trophy (Sub Final) Spring league matches Edward Tauchert Trophy Visitors Cup - Ham vs Leadenham PC Peter Pitts II Cheval Cup Sladmore Trophy Spring league Final - David Healy Trophy Don Zoilo Quatros Amigos Ham vs Accra PC Ham vs Newport PC
August Tue/Wed Friday Saturday Sunday
2nd & 3rd 4th 5th 6th
Saturday 12th Sunday 13th Saturday 19th Sunday 20th Saturday 26th Sunday 27th Monday
28th
Dubai Trophy Tournament Dubai Trophy Tournament semi finals Summer league matches Dubai Trophy Tournament Finals The Ritz Club Polo Challenge Spring league matches Stagshead - Young England Finalista Cup Summer league matches Indian Army Trophy Godbold Trophy Summer league matches Roehampton Trophy Tournament Finals Critchley Club Matches
September Saturday 2nd
Sunday
3rd
POL O VALL EY, SPAIN (PIC LEF T) For guaranteed sunshine (nearly!), and a perfect polo ‘time out’. COST: 'SPN Ĺ GPS B long weekend, accommodation included. www.polovalley.co.uk
Petersham Bowl Tournament matches Petersham Bowl Tournament Final Day John Player Plate (Sub Final) Spring league matches Tigerstream Ham vs RAF Polo Team June Bamberg
Saturday 9th Sunday 10th
Sunday
17th
Sunday
24th
Saturday 30th
Summer league matches HAC 105 invitational Cowdray Match - TBC Ham vs Newport Candilio Cup Autumn Cup Peter Pitts I Ventura-Paully Trophy Summer league matches Hunt Kendall Bowl Polo Challenge Summer League rain day Jimmy Edwards Trophy Comedy Society Player of the Match David Brown Cup Billy Walsh Tournament Final KIngfisher The Floating Seat Summer League Final - The Peggy Healy Trophy
October Sunday
1st
Farewell Cup Asprey Red Cross Cup Aylesford Trophy
INTERNATIONAL
A polo team from India returns to Hurlingham Park for the first time in 70 years
The young Maharaja strikes a more relaxed pose
England expects…
a Battle Royal
I
nternational polo returns to the heart of London as Team England take on the Champions League Polo India Team in a hotly anticipated crunch match taking place on Friday 9 June. ‘International Friday’ at Chestertons Polo in the Park has rapidly become established as one of the sporting highlights of the summer since its debut in 2015, and will round off an action-fuelled first day of polo. Last year’s encounter between England and South Africa broke Hurlingham Park attendance records, and this year ICM Capital Team England will once again grace the grounds of the iconic Fulham location. Taking them on will be a formidable Champions Polo League India team, who are playing at the famous venue for the first time in 70 years. The team will be led by His Highness Maharaja Padmanabh Singh (2), of the Royal family of Jaipur. HH plays under the nickname Pacho, which the match day commentator will surely count as a blessing. The 18-year-old Royal follows a bloodline of passionate
Ready to fight: His Highness Maharaja Padmanabh Singh
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international polo players including his grandfather, the late Maharaja Sawai Man Singhji Bahadur, who was a close polo-playing friend of Prince Charles. Joining HH in the team will be Shamsher Ali Khan (6), India’s highest rated polo player and Samir Suhag (5).
The Royal Family of Jaipur in ceremonial garb
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INTERNATIONAL India and England share strong polo heritage links, as the modern game of polo is derived from Manipur, India, and was brought to from India to the UK by British Soldiers in the 19th Century. Shortly afterwards the governing body in the United Kingdom, the Hurlingham Polo Association, was formed and the first formal British rules were drawn up, many of which still exist today. “India and England share a great deal of polo heritage and were instrumental in the growth of the sport around the world, so to have these two teams competing at our event is a real privilege, says Managing Director of Sportgate International, Rory Heron. “We are really proud to welcome HH Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh and his team for what promises to be thrilling match against England.” The visiting Royal is hungry for the challenge of playing at the event for the first time: “I am eagerly anticipating my debut,” he says, “especially because I’m representing my country for the first time abroad and what better way to do so than in front of such a huge and enthusiastic audience in London’s Hurlingham Park. “I’m really looking forward to it, it will be a great game and I hope it’s fun for all. The rules at Chestertons Polo in the Park makes it much more spectator friendly, and it’s faster and more fun to watch. “It is a very special occasion for me personally as my
family has had a long association with polo in the U.K. “My Grandfather led the last great Indian polo team to many victories, winning every major trophy in the UK during the 1940s and 1950s. I am honoured to be participating in this much awaited and historic match.” International Friday also marks the appearance of Hazel Jackson (2), the first female to play for England in ten years, and the first ever to represent the nation at Chestertons Polo in the Park. “I am really excited to be part of ICM Capital Team England, it is a real honour,” says Hazel. “I have been wanting to play at Chestertons Polo in the Park for a long time as all the other players always tell me what an amazing experience it is. England haven’t had the best results in previous years but I am hoping this time we will get the win the home crowd will be cheering for!” The history-making International will surely heat up the three-day festival of polo, which has firmly established itself as one of the most anticipated and sought after summer social events. The rules have been simplified so that spectators are able to follow the fast and furious polo without needing any prior knowledge of the game and enjoy the fiercely competitive sport. (City Polo Rules - page 95) The International match takes place on the Friday evening and is the perfect way to kick start your weekend at Chestertons Polo in the Park. England, and India, expects...
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Last year’s international match drew record crowds
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MEET THE TEAMS
Champions Polo League INDIA India has a lot to answer for in the polo world - in a good way. It was in India that British Army officers saw the game being played in the late 1800s and thought that it looked like a very fine way to spend an afternoon. And how right they were. Fast forward almost 150 years and here we are; India’s finest taking on the young upstarts, England. There are some talented players in the India trio; getting to a five (Dhruvi) and six (Sim) goal handicap is no mean feat. Nor is getting to two, as the Maharajah of Jaipur (Pacho) can attest. They will want to show England who is boss!
NAME: HH Sawai Padmanabh Singh
NAME: Dhruv Pal Godara
NAME: Simran Singh Shergill
NICKNAME: Pacho
NICKNAME: Dhruvi
NICKNAME: Sim
HANDICAP: 2
HANDICAP: 5
HANDICAP: 6
Players: Questions and Answers... WH AT’S YO UR FAVOURITE H ORS E AN D W HY ?
AND TH E W ORST THIN G ABO UT BEING A P OLO PLAYER?
HH: Small Fellow – he never loses a ride off or a play. I think he has a very big ego! Dhruv: Memo. He has a big heart, and is very quick on the field. Simran: Pines. She’s super powerful and tough, but very correct and soft in the mouth.
HH: It takes up so much time, you struggle to focus on other stuff! Dhruv: Never staying in one place for very long. Simran: When you hurt yourself, or a horse.
WH AT’S TH E BES T BIT ABOUT CH ESTERTONS POLO IN THE PARK?
HH: There are so many interesting people to choose from… Dhruv: A girl called Bindiya. Simran: Somebody with good conversation.
HH: Young, like-minded people coming to watch, and it’s great to play in front of such a large crowd. Dhruv: The event brings polo to a great audience, often new to the sport. Simran: It’s a different format. Fast and exciting.
THE COOLES T T HING ABOUT BEING A POLO PLAYER? HH: You go to so many amazing places, and meet amazing people. Dhruv: The rush. Simran: Travelling the world, doing what I love and getting paid for it!
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WH O WOULD BE YOUR ID EAL DINNER DATE?
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE POLO TO SO MEONE WH O’S NE VER S EEN IT? HH: Fast. And thrilling. Dhruv: Adrenalin, action, and fear factor. One of the most exciting games in the world to watch. Simran: Harmony between horse and rider. A very physical sport, requiring huge precision.
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INTERNATIONAL
MEET THE TEAMS
ICM Capital TEAM ENGLAND Ladies and gents, we have a first - a GIRL playing for England at Chestertons Polo in the Park! Luckily for England, and polo, a handicap is a handicap no matter what gender you are. Or aren’t. This team may be young (well, apart from Nacho… sorry Nacho!) but they are very, very determined, and will definitely want to show that even though India got there first, England do it better. Hazel is more determined than a terrier after a rat, Jack flies around the field at the speed of light and Nacho scatters the opposition like ninepins. Watch out India!
NAME: Hazel Jackson
NAME: Alejandro Gonzalez
NAME: Jack Richardson
NICKNAME: Nipper
NICKNAME: Nacho
NICKNAME: The Avatar
HANDICAP:
HANDICAP: 6
HANDICAP: 6
Players: Questions and Answers... WH AT’S YO UR FAVOURITE H ORS E AN D W HY ?
AND TH E W ORST THIN G ABO UT BEING A P OLO PLAYER?
Hazel: Isla, she flies like a G6 jet! Jack: Coneja – made at home and lightning quick.
Jack: If you land badly in the saddle it hurts. A lot. Hazel: I honestly can’t think of anything.
WH AT’S TH E BES T BIT ABOUT CH ESTERTONS POLO IN THE PARK?
WH O WOULD BE YOUR ID EAL DINNER DATE?
Jack: Everyone says it, but it’s the atmosphere. Hazel: I guess I’m about to find out! But I’ve heard the party is pretty great?
THE COOLES T T HING ABOUT BEING A POLO PLAYER? Hazel: Being able to travel all around the world playing, and not having to suffer an entire English winter. Jack: I don’t have to read or write good.
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Hazel: Anthony Joshua. Jack: Helen Mirren.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE POLO TO SO MEONE WH O’S NE VER S EEN IT? Hazel: A sport for adrenaline junkies with talent! Jack: It’s MUCH faster than hockey. N.B. For Nacho’s responses, see page 50.
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JOB SWAP
R I D E R VS R AC E R
McLaren professional driver coach Euan Hankey shows up for polo pro George Meyrick’s lesson...
Rider vs Racer When a McLaren pro driver and a polo pro hang out, things are bound to get competitive...
...before George gets his chance to reverse the roles
George holds the stopwatch, while Euan gets ready to launch
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JOB SWAP
Jet charter by Victor offers total privacy and puts you in complete control of your schedule. With no membership fees and instant access to the best aircraft and operators around the world, Victor’s smart technology platform and 24/7 customer service is revolutionising the world of jet charter. Always connected and in complete control, jet charter by Victor takes you from wherever you are to wherever you want to go.
Automotive horsepower – and plenty of it – went head to head with polo pony power at the Top Gear Test Track when McLaren pro driver Euan Hankey and polo international George Meyrick decided to put their respective mounts to the test in a 50m sprint challenge. The prize was the honour of cracking open the obligatory bottle of Lanson champagne...
To see our two stars getting to grips with the other’s choice of horsepower, search YouTube for ‘McLaren’ and ‘Polo in the Park’
Fast track code:
POLOP
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F LY V I C T O R . C O M
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H I S T O RY
A history of the Hurlingham Club Presented by Chestertons, the experts in London’s local (and historical!) connections
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T
he Hurlingham Club in Fulham, southwest London, has long been a popular private club, thanks in part to its river views, excellent sporting facilities and of course the grand, historic Hurlingham House. However, it is also the historic home of polo and it was the club’s association with the sport that brought it to the attention of the world and the privileged social sets of Victorian and Edwardian Britain. Today, the club continues to offer members excellent sporting facilities and a varied social calendar. Hurlingham Park, one of the club’s original polo fields, is now a public recreational and sporting field and once a year in June, in partnership with The Hurlingham Club, it hosts the world’s largest three-day polo event, Chestertons Polo in the Park. This new form of polo, using slightly adapted rules, has revived the tradition of the game at Hurlingham, dating back to 1874. However there’s much more to Hurlingham than polo. The history of the house and The Hurlingham Club extend back to the 18th century and earlier. This brochure offers a historical overview of Hurlingham, shedding light over the estate and some important events in the club’s history.
Ordnance Survey map 1865
E ARLY HISTORY Until the 18th century, this portion of the Fulham riverside was mainly open fields and orchards, with very few buildings between the Bishop’s Palace and the village of Broomhouse, near today’s Broomhouse Lane. The land, known as Hurlingham Field, was part of the manor of the Bishops of London, dating back to before the Norman Conquest in 1066. The Bishop’s Palace was used as a home for the Bishops of London for over 900 years until the 1970s. Because of its isolation, Hurlingham became the site of a ‘pesthouse’ or isolation hospital for sufferers of the plague during the 17th century. It is believed that the area near the lake was used for a plague pit for the hundreds of people
who died of the Black Death from the 1630s until as late as the 1730s. From around 1670, the pesthouse was used as accommodation for the poor, along with some additional almshouses. These were the only buildings in the area until the mid 18th century when an act that had been introduced by King William and Queen Mary in 1693 to allow bishops to grant leases began to have an impact on the area. Wealthy Londoners looking to escape the filthy, crowded and polluted conditions of the city took advantage of these new leases and started building large country houses next to the river, developing a new social scene outside of the city.
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THE HOUSE
Photograph GETTY IMAGES GALLERY
The first house to be constructed on Hurlingham Field was for Dr William Cadogan, a successful physician and governor of the Foundling Hospital, who leased nine acres in 1760 to build a ‘cottage’, which is the core of today’s Hurlingham House. The north front, along with the bow–fronted Ante Room and Reading Room of today’s house are believed to be part of Cadogan’s original house. When Cadogan passed away in 1797, the lease for Hurlingham was taken by John Ellis, who transformed the small country house into the neo-classical mansion that you see today. Following Ellis, the estate was occupied by a number of men including Richard, Marquess Wellesley, elder brother of the Duke of Wellington. In 1867 it was bought by Richard Christopher Naylor, a wealthy banker, who gave permission to a Frank Heathcote to establish pigeon-shooting at Hurlingham and within a couple of years the Hurlingham Club had been established.
THE FORM ATION OF THE HURLINGHAM CLUB Records show that a ten year lease was signed between Naylor and the trustees of the club, Viscount Holmesdale, Sir Charles Mordaunt, and Francis Heathcote in 1869. The first recorded club committee meeting took place in February 1869 and it is this date that the club takes as the official foundation date. When The Hurlingham Club was established, it was created with the purpose of being an ‘agreeable country resort’ providing facilities for the sport of pigeon shooting – hence the pigeon in the club’s logo. Originally only open from April to August, the club soon became a popular resort during the shooting season and by the early 1870s, it had almost 800 members. The club manager at the time was keen to introduce the relatively new game of polo to the members, and this finally became possible in 1874 when the trustees purchased the freehold for Hurlingham.
Photograph THE HURLINGHAM CLUB
In 1797, the lease for Hurlingham was taken by John Ellis, who employed architect, George Byfield to transform the small country house into the neo-classical mansion that we see today.
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A POPU LAR VENUE
IM PROVEMENT S AND EX TENS IONS
As a pigeon-shooting club, Hurlingham attracted many high profile members and visitors, but it was the introduction of polo that saw the club rise to become one of the most popular places to visit during the London season. This, combined with the club’s royal patrons such as the Prince of Wales and other members of high society, ensured its prominence. During the Victorian and Edwardian period, the club consisted of Hurlingham House, where members could dine, the pavilion, the polo ground and stabling for up to 75 polo ponies, alongside the pigeon-shooting pavilion and enclosure. Over the years, new sports facilities such as tennis courts were added, as well as an ornamental lake and flower gardens. The club became a popular spot to watch polo and meet friends, as well as have dinner and teas and listen to bands.
The original Hurlingham estate only covered a portion of what it became prior to World War II, with successive additions throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, including the leasing of neighbouring Mulgrave House and its 13 acres from the 7th Lord Ranelagh in 1879 and the acquisition of a second polo ground, east of the first and where Sulivan Court is situated today, in 1894. Another important acquisition was Broom House, which stood where the cricket pitch now lies, and the surrounding land, adding a further 80 acres to the club in 1912. One of the most significant alterations made to the house itself was undertaken by renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1906, remembered for his work in New Delhi, as well as many war memorials, including the cenotaph in Whitehall. Lutyens, who continued as club’s architect until 1912, was engaged to make various changes, including enlarging the main entrance and creating the Long Gallery. A grand new 2,600-seat grandstand was built at No.1 polo ground in 1934 to replace the old stand and pavilion, formerly near Broomhouse Lane. Smaller stands were also added, with seating for an additional 1,200 people.
Photograph HAMMERSMITH & FULHAM
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The Jewel in the Crown of Polo
POLO AT HURLINGHA M Since 1874 The Hurlingham Club has been synonymous with polo and even today, the Hurlingham Polo Association remains the controlling body for the sport. The first recorded game of polo took place in Persia in 600BC, but the game was only discovered by British tea planters in India in the 1850s. It quickly gained popularity amongst the colonial administrators and the military and came over to England for the first time in 1869, when the 10th Hussars challenged the 9th Lancers to a game on Hounslow Heath. The first game of polo played at Hurlingham was on Saturday 6th June, 1874 between the Royal Horse Guards and the Monmouthshire Polo Club and the first goal was scored by the Marquess of Worcester, later to become the Duke of Beaufort. The game drew a large crowd of spectators, including the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh. The rules of the game were formalised and drawn up by The Hurlingham Club Committee and published in 1875. The club became the headquarters of polo for the British Empire and was the location for major competitions, such as the annual Champion Cup, inaugurated in 1876; the Westchester Cup between England and the United States that later became known as the ‘America Cup’; and the InterRegimental and County Cup tournaments which began in 1878. All became popular annual events, in addition to regular club matches. In 1908, the club presented a challenge cup to the winning polo team at the London Olympics. The trophy, designed by the Goldsmiths Company, was won by the Roehampton team, but under the terms of the Deed of Gift it was returned to Hurlingham in 1912 and has remained in the club since.
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Watch the World’s best polo players and enjoy the finest hospitality at the Cartier Queen’s Cup Semi-Finals and Finals in 2017 HIGH PROFILE GUESTS The Hurlingham Club attracted high profile guests from the very beginning, with many members of the British royal family becoming regular visitors, including Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, as well as royalty and aristocracy from across the world, such as the King of Denmark, the King and Queen of the Belgians, Prince Komatsu of Japan and The Crown Prince and Princess of Portugal. It was also popular with many high ranking military men, politicians and foreign dignitaries. Hurlingham remained at the heart of the London social season throughout the Edwardian era. Honorary members included the Prince of Wales, as well as Winston Churchill, the King of Spain and the Duke of York.
Cartier Queen’s Cup Semi-Finals Wednesday 14 June Cartier Queen’s Cup Finals Sunday 18 June
Book today for a bespoke combination of elegant hospitality and exhilarating sport in our beautifully appointed Members’ Clubhouse. For more information call our Tickets and Events Office on 01784 434212 or email sales@guardspoloclub.com. Non-members are most welcome, plus significant discounts for Club members. www.guardspoloclub.com
NOT JUS T A POLO CLUB Although The Hurlingham Club was most famous for its connection with polo, it offered its members a range of other sports: croquet was played and the club remains the venue for the Croquet Association’s Tournaments; the first game of lacrosse was played on the polo ground between two Canadian teams in 1876; tennis was introduced to Hurlingham in the 1880s and soon became one of the club’s core sports; a nine hole golf course was opened in 1894 and an 18-hole course was laid out in 1925. Another key attraction during the late 19th and early 20th centuries were the balloon contests organised by the Royal Aero Club. The list of sports and events continued with fencing, archery, skittles, wrestling, baseball and motorcar rallies. There was even a steeplechase event, known as ‘The Victoria Cross’ in the late 1890s, at which horses and riders had to jump various fences and the rider (after tying his horse to a tree) had to ferry a ‘dead body’ by boat across the lake and back. Hurlingham was also the location for a number of fetes and balls, including those held to celebrate Queen Victoria’s jubilees in 1887 and 1897. The annual Eton and
Harrow Ball, renamed the Hurlingham Ball in 1950, was a key event in the social calendar and was so popular that gate-crashing was rife, with people trying to gain access from all sides of the grounds – including the river, when Putney boatmen rowed the gatecrashers over specially. Photograph GETTY IMAGES GALLERY
TH E IMPACT OF W AR
tastic location.
The Hurlingham Club has long held close ties with the military and was made available for servicemen and women throughout both world wars. During World War I, various regiments were accommodated at the club and the Royal Naval Air Service used the No.1 polo ground for a balloon detachment. It took a while for the club to recover from the affects of the Great War and the subsequent Great Depression, but the club managed to run much as it did before the war, even managing to expand during the 1920s and 30s: an outdoor swimming pool was built in 1933 and a squash court in 1934. During the Second World War, around 450 officers and men from the Army and Royal Air Force were quartered at Hurlingham, along with an anti-aircraft battery on No.2 polo ground and a balloon barrage unit. The close proximity to the river put Hurlingham at risk and it endured 27 bombs and a landmine. There was slight bomb damage, including the demolition of the conservatory on the west side and the crystal dome on the east. The Hurlingham Club continued to operate throughout the war and many military and civil staff members based in London found it offered a convenient escape, its proximity to London especially attractive given the limited fuel supplies. Reduced membership fees and complimentary passes were offered to the staffs of the Allied and foreign embassies in London and the officers of Allied armed forces. By 1942 most of the army occupation had ended, but the No.1 polo ground had been turned into 350 allotments. Following the end of the war in 1946, the London County Council sought a compulsory purchase of the whole estate, including the house. The trustees managed
to negotiate to save Hurlingham House and surrounding buildings, but both polo grounds were lost: after being used for allotments throughout the war, No.1 polo ground became a public sports ground, Hurlingham Park, in October 1952, and No.2 ground was built over with new council housing.
Photograph MINT POLO IN THE PARK
TH E RETURN OF POLO After a 70-year absence, polo returned to Hurlingham in 2009, with the launch of Polo in the Park, which fast became one of London’s major summer sporting events and is now the biggest three-day polo event in the world. Described as a ‘high octane, fast moving and dynamic sport’, Chestertons Polo in the Park has adapted some of the rules to create a much more spectator-friendly game and draw a new audience to the game, revitalising London’s summer sporting scene.
2017 r POLO IN THE PARK 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA Tel: +44 (0) 20 7235 2000 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7235 2001 mandarinoriental.com
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NEW MAP NEEDED
SUSURRO
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A TO Z GUIDE
SUBSCRIPTION
City Polo Series Rules
OFFER Do you share PQ’s passion for polo? Read the original and still the best-loved polo magazine for: r #FTU PSJHJOBM DPOUFOU r *OUFSWJFXT BOE BOBMZTJT r 5PQ TQPSUJOH BDUJPO r 'BCVMPVT QIPUPHSBQIZ r 5IF QPMP MJGFTUZMF
8IFO ZPV OFFE UP LOPX XIBU T IBQQFOJOH PO UIF GJFME BU $IFTUFSUPOT 1PMP JO UIF 1BSL DIFDL PVU PVS " UP ; HVJEF
A B
UK ADDRESSES PRICE £28 EUROPEAN ADDRESSES PRICE £38
3FTFSWF ZPVS DPQJFT PG 1PMP 2VBSUFSMZ OPX BU www.poloquarterlymagazine.com 94
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CHANGING ENDS – Teams change ends on the pitch only at half time, making the game quicker and simpler than traditional polo when ends change after every goal.
D E F
HIGH GOAL – Teams with a total handicap GSPN HPBMT 5IJT UIF IJHIFTU MFWFM PG PGGJDJBM tournament polo played in the United Kingdom. HOOK – The move whereby a player uses their mallet to block or interfere with an opponent’s swing by hooking the mallet of the other player with their own. A player may only hook if he/she is on the side where the swing is being made or directly in front or behind an opponent.
DIVOTS – Turf kicked up on the pitch by ponies’ hooves. EQUIPMENT – Hard helmets are compulsory, while face-guards, kneepads, whips and spurs are optional for the players. FIELD m " GVMM TJ[F QPMP GJFME NFBTVSFT ZBSET Y ZBSET (PBM QPTUT BSF TFU FJHIU ZBSET BQBSU Our field is smaller, allowing for prime spectating.
HANDICAP m 1MBZFST BSF SBUFE PO B TDBMF PG UP UIF IJHIFS UIF CFUUFS XIJDI SFGFST UP UIFJS playing ability. The team handicap is the sum of its players’ handicaps and in handicap matches of six chukkas, the team with the lower handicap is awarded the difference in goals at the start. For matches other than six chukkas, the side with the lower handicap is gifted a number of goals as a head start: the difference in the teams’ handicaps are multiplied by the number of chukkas and divided by six. Fractions count as half a goal. So, a HPBM UFBN XPVME HJWF B HPBM UFBN B HPBM start in a four-chukka match. HIT-IN – Should a team hit the ball over the opponent’s back line during an attack, the defending team resumes the game with a free hit from the back line where the ball went over.
CHUKKA – There are four chukkas (phases) in Polo in the Park matches, each lasting seven NJOVUFT XJUI VQ UP TFDPOET PG PWFSUJNF *G during overtime the ball goes out of bounds, hits the sideboards, or if the umpire blows his whistle for a foul, the chukka is over. There is no overtime at the end of the final chukka unless the score is tied.
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REST OF THE WORLD PRICE £58
H
BELL OR HOOTER – Located off the field, and rung by the timekeeper to inform umpires when a chukka (seven minutes of play) has passed.
C
GOAL – When the ball fully crosses the line between the goal posts at any height, a goal has been scored regardless of who hits it through (including the pony). GOAL JUDGE – Appointed to signal a goal (flag over head) or no-goal (flag under waist).
BALL – White and crafted from plastic or wood, weighing 4.5oz and 3.5-inches in diameter.
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G
BACK – The number ‘4’ in a polo team, normally dubbed the ‘back’ instead of being referred to as his number. BACKHAND – Usually a defensive play that involves hitting the ball backwards, on either side of the horse.
4VCTDSJCF OPX BOE TIPX ZPVS USVF QPMP DPMPVST www.poloquarterlymagazine.com
APPEALING – Claim by players for a foul, usually signalled by furious shaking of sticks above heads.
HPA – The Hurlingham Polo Association is the governing body of the game in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
I
INTERVALS – Three-minute rest interludes between chukkas. Half-time lasts five minutes. r POLO IN THE PARK
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A TO Z GUIDE
L
LINE OF THE BALL – ‘Crossing the line’ is the most recurrent foul in polo. The line of the ball (the imaginary line along which the ball travels when hit) represents a right of way for the player following closest to that line. In the interest of safety, there are strict rules governing opponents’ entry into the right of way. LOW GOAL – Teams with a total handicap of 4-8 goals.
M
MALLET/STICK – Polo sticks range in length according to the height of the pony ridden. The shaft is crafted from bamboo cane or graphite composite and the head made from a hard wood. MILLIONAIRE’S SHOT – A shot at the ball by an inexpert player, when the ball is close to the legs of the pony or beneath its belly. A high degree of skill and timing is required for both shots to avoid injuring the pony. It is assumed that only millionaires with many ponies can afford to have a one out of play due to injury.
N O
R
RINGER – A player or pony that performs above expectation.
S T
NECKSHOT – A ball that is hit from under the pony’s neck. OUT-OF-BOUNDS – When a ball goes over the sideboards, it is considered out-of-bounds. The umpire then tosses the ball between the two teams lined up at the point at which it left the field of play.
PENALTY – A free hit awarded when a foul is committed. The hit is then taken from the 45yard line with one defender in place. PONIES – Although labelled ‘ponies’, players SJEF IPSTFT PG IBOET BOE BCPWF XJUI NPTU preferring the Argentine Criollo breed, pure or cross thoroughbreds. Important qualities are speed and stamina, as are temperaments responsive to the rigours of the game. There is no height limit GPS UIF QPOZ UIPVHI NPTU TUBOE CFUXFFO BOE IBOET " QPOZ BMPOF DBO BDDPVOU GPS BT NVDI BT QFS DFOU PG PWFSBMM QFSGPSNBODF POSITIONS – Each of the three team members take on a signifcant role. Players frequently change positions, but always endeavour to return to their original assignment.
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TAILSHOT – Hitting the ball behind and under the pony’s tail. THROW-IN – The umpire starts or resumes play by rolling the ball down the centre of a line-up. TIME-OUT – Called by an umpire when a foul is committed, or an accident occurs. During a game, a player may call time-out only if he has broken a key piece of tack or has been injured. (Not including changing ponies or replacing a broken stick, which may be done at any time.) TREADING-IN – Spectators enter the pitch at half time to tread-in turf divots made by ponies. TWO-POINTER – Goals scored from outside the 45 yard ring are worth double. Kerching!
OFFSIDE – The right-hand side of the pony.
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SAFETY m 1FOBMUZ 5IJT JT BXBSEFE XIFO a defending player hits the ball over his own CBDLMJOF 5IF GSFF TIPU JT UBLFO ZBSET GSPN the backline, opposite the point where the ball crossed, like a corner in football. No defender can CF DMPTFS UIBO ZBSET SIDEBOARD m 5IFTF BSF PQUJPOBM JODI IJHI vertical boards placed along the sidelines.
NEARSIDE – The left-hand side of the pony.
PATRON – A wealthy amateur player who foots the bill of putting a team together, which is generally made up of at least two professionals and is usually named after the patron’s house or company.
RIDE-OFF – Two riders may make contact and drive each other from the line to prevent the other from striking the ball. While it is primarily intended for the ponies to do the pushing, a player may use his body, but not his elbows.
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UMPIRES – Mounted referees. WRAPS – Bandages or leg wraps used to provide support and protection for ponies during play. EXTRA TIME – Should there be a tied score at the end of the final chukka, a five-minute break allows players to rest and swap in a pony before beginning a ‘sudden death’ chukka or extra time. During this period of play, the goal posts are stretched an extra eight yards apart and the first team to score wins.
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YOUR LINE – This term is often heard shouted by players to a teammate indicating that he has the principal right of way to the ball over an opponent.
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ZONE – (Safety) The ‘Zone’ refers to the area surrounding the polo pitch. This is strictly out of bounds for spectators during play.
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Don’t look like a plonker at polo! Aurora Eastwood is editor of polo’s best-loved magazine Polo Quarterly. These are her top tips for fitting in. White jeans and polo boots…
Yell choice phrases such as ‘Take the man!’ (even
don’t do it! We know you didn’t just get off a horse because you are ALL CLEAN. Only bona fide polo players can pull this look off, and even they won’t have their boots on any more. They will be wearing a pair of scruffy trainers, and will look decidedly grubby.
if it’s a woman), ‘Boards!’ and ‘Find space!’ throughout the game. You will sound like the cognoscenti, and become wildly attractive to potential mates.
Learn some Spanish. The best players in the world hail from South America. At best, you can strike up a conversation. At worst, you will understand the hilarious insults they hurl at one another and themselves, such as ‘the parrot’s lady parts’, ‘son of a thousand dogs’, ‘small boy of effluent’. (Politically correct translations in heed of our Polo in the Park audience.)
It’s called a good shot. Not a good hit, or a whack. And you make it with a stick – it’s not golf.
Learn the Highway Code - really. When you
hit the ball you create a single-carriageway. No one is allowed to cut you up and nick it off you. They can come down the imaginary opposite lane and meet you with the imaginary white lines in between you and take the ball, but they can’t zoom across your bows at 90 degrees. Or dive in front and slam the anchors on. They can however push you sideways off the carriageway and take the ball (charmingly called a ride-off) or hook your mallet with their own. So mean.
The horses are called ponies even though
they are horses. The shaved mane is called a hogged mane. Offside relates to the side of the pony (horse) you hit the ball from. Confused yet?
Got it? No, us neither.. ‘Er… TAKE THE MAN!’
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