TenGoal Magazine Winter 2022

Château Brachet is the historical residence of Doctor Léon Brachet, who cut quite a figure among upper-class Aix-les-Bains society (British community included) at the end of the 19 th century. Nestled in a 6-hectare park and after a 10-year renovation, Château Brachet now welcomes guests to its comfortably appointed 15 rooms and suites, each with a dedicated historical theme. Its gastronomic restaurant was designed to indulge a clientele of enlightened connoisseurs and unconditional epicureans alike, under the generous helm of internationally renowned Chef Bertrand Jeanson, active member of the Académie Culinaire de France. In addition to the 18-metre-long outdoor swimming pool, guests will also be able to unwind on the Tennis, Padel, Pétanque, Croquet, Badminton and Volleyball courts, and take advantage of the “Executive Golf” course covering more than one hectare in a bucolic environment, true haven of peace and tranquility. Rubbing shoulders with the aristocracy earned Léon Brachet, the moniker “the Doctor of Kings.”

His patients included King George I of Greece (Grandfather of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh), and Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Together with his wife Nelly, they were instrumental in putting the Savoyard resort on the map. They even took part in some of Queen Victoria’s excursions, for instance when the Pope granted Her Majesty with a special authorization to visit the “Grande Chartreuse” monastery in 1887…

Your Stately Home

IMPROVING OR MOVING; YOUR ONE-OF-A-KIND HOME

It’s the carte blanche that normally drives a person’s desire to build their own home. Whether it’s secret doors, pet spas, a library or a walk-in wardrobe – designing and building your own home means being able to prioritise and incorporate your own must haves.

With an unmatched reputation across Greater London and the home counties for building homes of the highest quality, Octagon Developments pioneered the concept of luxury housebuilding and since 2010 have been leading the way in tailor made homes through their Octagon Bespoke division.

Whether clients have secured a new piece of land, want to redevelop their current plot, or transform their property with a sizeable extension, Octagon Bespoke can assist. Recent Bespoke projects span the breadth of Southern England, with the team chosen for their ability to o er a full turnkey service that champions the Octagon hallmark - a high quality build in a premier location and an impeccable service, from concept to delivery.

“Adaptability and breadth of knowledge means we always meet and exceed our client’s expectations.”

The talented in-house team of designers and architects are responsible for ensuring each Octagon home is an original, with distinguishing features that give every building a unique character, whilst still retaining the unmistakable Octagon style.

Head of Octagon Bespoke, Laurence Holder, comments, “There’s no better way to create your perfect home than to go Bespoke, where each client works directly with our in-house experts to

push the boundaries in what they want from their property, requiring every bit of expertise our Bespoke team o ers. Whether that’s restoring and converting a farmhouse in the countryside or building a brand new home in our signature neo-Georgian style, our adaptability and breadth of knowledge means we always meet and exceed our client’s expectations.”

involved from initial conversations with the architects, to the finishing touches on your co ee table.

Ensuring the resulting spaces are just as beautiful as they are practical, where clients feel at home from day one, Octagon Interiors cater for all tastes – from modern and contemporary to traditional and classical. The team has huge creative scope, from working on a two-bedroom apartment to a 12,000 sq ft super mansion.

To ensure a seamless experience for an Octagon Bespoke client, Octagon Interiors was launched in early 2020, a turnkey interior design service available exclusively to new and historic clients, whether buying a speculative build or working with the bespoke division.

Octagon Bespoke has seen exceptional success since its founding, expanding rapidly to meet demand, with several new members of the team joining this year. O ering a comprehensive interior design service from design consultancy to delivery, clients work directly with the Octagon Group’s in-house team to create a personalised scheme that mirrors the splendour of the exterior architecture of the property, unlocking the full potential of each new home. The interiors service is a rare partnership between house builder and interior designer to provide a unified client experience, where the interior team are

The advantages of using Octagon’s in-house service became swiftly apparent to several clients moving into the developer’s flagship development Broadoaks Park in West Byfleet, Surrey. Assured by the excellent working relationship between the interior design team and the other departments, it saves clients valuable time as the designers’ insider knowledge on design and space planning ensures the correct positions are in place. Octagon’s established relationships with interior suppliers across Britain and Europe means they can o er the very best in interior products, creating a design scheme which is just as unique as the property itself.

Octagon Bespoke undertake projects from £2million. For further details, see octagonbespoke.com

Aspirational HOMES FROM AN inspirational COMPANY

Recognised as the pioneers of luxury housebuilding, Octagon have an unrivalled reputation for creating remarkable homes throughout Greater London and the home counties - from extensive refurbishment and restoration projects to speculative new build homes and interior design schemes. The current Octagon collection offers stunning houses and apartments in prime locations with prices starting from £750,000, rising to over £20 million.

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HM Queen Elizabeth ll with her eldest son, now HM King Charles III at an International Day presentation at Smith's Lawn in the 1980s (Photo: Mike Roberts).

The timeless glamour of the French Riviera, island hopping in the Indian Ocean, exploring the wilds of Antarctica - a superyacht offers unrivalled freedom. With your crew ready to turn wishes into reality, and a personal chef creating unique culinary masterpieces morning, noon and night, all that’s left for you to do is dream. Edmiston’s global team of specialists in charter, sales and purchase, and management have the expertise to make it happen. LADY S, 93m, Feadship, 12 guests MONTE

COME FLY THE DREAM

Today, personal and professional experiences may take you in very short timeframes to opposite ends of the country, or indeed the world. The success of the journey will depend on the tools you have in your arsenal. Helicopters are the most elegant and versatile means of private transportation available today — able to provide continuity of travel between your home, your jet, or your yacht and your next destination. They provide and unparalleled experience without sacrificing the most vital elements for you and your family: Time, Security, Safety, and Privacy.

Helicopters are becoming faster, lighter, more powerful, able to lift more, and fly further. They are customisable and modulable to fit each owner’s mission profiles. They are able to switch between a luxury custom interior to a medical evacuation unit in under an hour. They can have modifications for winching, heli-skiing, aerial photography, yacht landings, and much more.

Owning you own helicopter can be one of the most exciting and liberating experiences. A truly luxurious product, helicopters are expensive to buy and to operate.

Whether the expense of full ownership is justified depends entirely on the mindset of the owner, and their wishes for its use. Some clients see it as a means to ensure their family’s privacy in point to point travel, some as a vital business tool for reliability and reactivity, others as an accessory to adventure.

Level of utilisation is one of the most important questions to ask yourself. If this is an emotional purchase and the realisation of a passion, then the question may be superfluous. If not, then we would recommend considering full ownership if you anticipate using it multiple times a week for most of the year.

There are alternatives to full helicopter ownership. The simplest is sourcing a reliable charter service for sporadic travel needs. This is the lowest form of commitment, but comes with drawbacks of being subject to charter providers’ availability and ability to meet local demand.

The next step up would be a fractional ownership scheme, where you own a percentage of an aircraft. This enables more control, but still requires juggling your needs with the needs of your fellow owners.

The next step toward full private ownership would be making your aircraft available to a charter company for commercial use, as a means of generating revenue to offset the operating costs.

Usually the solution that is right for you is one that is almost entirely unique to you. We touched on various ownership modules and potential configurations here, but there are also discussions on helicopter type, customisations, location, supporting services, heli-yacht integration, brokerage, training and crewing choices, and much more. It is a fascinating subject which is best broached with an experienced consultant to advise you along the way.

Helicopters, when sourced, flown and maintained correctly, are incredibly reliable and safe. The management of the aircraft is the most important element to ensure this. These are complex machines, but this complexity can be handled with ease when an engaged owner is accompanied by the right professionals. The Luviera group has been in the private aviation and yachting industries for over 20 years. Flying is our passion and we would love to share it with you.

Guards Polo Club was honoured to have the support of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll from our inception until Her death this September. We were indebted to Her Majesty for this incredible patronage and the ensuing, strong links to the Royal Family. So we are honoured to be able to pay tribute to this most incredible of monarchs in this issue of TenGoal, recalling many of her visits to Smith’s Lawn across almost seven decades.

My fellow Board Director, Major Jamie Hayward, a former Scots Guards officer, has added to this tribute by writing an excellent guide to the seven regiments of the Household Division, all of whom played a crucial part in Her Majesty’s State Funeral on 19 September. I was one of the five billion people that watched this remarkable service on the television, enthralled by the seamless blend of tradition with many personal, family touches.

We recently learned that HM The King is taking on his father’s wide-ranging role as Ranger of Windsor Great Park. We are delighted that His Majesty will be actively involved in the continued development of

this historic, royal landscape, which has been our home since 1955, securing its future for generations to come.

Sadly Her Majesty’s passing meant that we were unable to properly celebrate our 2022 season and what a season it had been. We played some 578 games, across 27 tournaments, plus a handful of individual days, including the Out-Sourcing Inc Royal Charity Polo Cup which was attended by TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. This day alone raised a staggering £1million for their charities and we reflect on our wider charitable success further into this publication.

The Princes’ Ground came into full play for the first time this summer and the feedback from the players was hugely positive. This praise was the perfect inspiration for James Neighbour and Antony Fanshawe, as they have spent much of the year focusing on the penultimate part of our grounds’ development plan, rebuilding grounds six and eight. At the time of writing both grounds look fabulously green and beautifully level and we are looking forward to introducing them gently into our fields roster for 2023.

We highlight the work in our Creating the Perfect Pitch feature on page 68.

With a new website due to land in the New Year and teams already deep in discussion about their plans for 2023, the next season is already looking good. So a huge thank you to all of our sponsors who have helped make this year so memorable – Cartier, Out-Sourcing Inc, Talacrest, La Martina, Access Bank, Coworth Park, Clé de Peau Beauté, Champagne Laurent-Perrier, Clinova and Mosimann’s.

Thank you to all of our Home Elected Players, Professionals and Social Members who have supported the Club on and off the field of play too. I look forward to catching up with as many of you as possible when our season restarts next April and in the meantime may I wish you all warmest wishes for the festive season.

BRIAN STEIN, CHAIRMAN

Brian Stein receives his personal parking space nameplate from HM The Queen and Col Paul Belcher when Her Majesty opened the new Clubhouse in April 2009. At the time Brian was Chairman of the Clubhouse Committee and oversaw the new development (Photo: Centaur Photographic).

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GUARDS POLO CLUB

HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II

AT SMITH’S LAWN

We will pay a formal tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in the Club’s 2023 Yearbook but pay a pictorial homage here to our late Monarch who visited Guards Polo Club almost every year since our inception 67 years ago. Her Majesty was renowned for putting players at her ease and spoke with confidence about the game. Her Majesty always took an interest in the Best Playing Pony prize and would talk with knowledge to the winning player about his or her pony’s breeding. Her Majesty first attended games at Smith’s Lawn as a player ’s wife, supporting HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in his Windsor Park matches. In the Club’s fifth year Her Majesty personally gifted The Queen’s Cup to the Club and then regularly attended on finals day to present this much coveted prize. Her Majesty last attended the Club in 2021, presenting the prizes for the Out-Sourcing Inc. Royal Windsor Cup, ensuring almost seven decades of Royal support. Thank you Ma’am. n

PHOTOGRAPHY: IMAGES OF POLO, MIKE ROBERTS, PA IMAGES/ALAMY; JASON DIXON, DAVID HARTLEY

GUARDS POLO CLUB

Her Majesty makes a presentation to Prince Charles at Smith’s Lawn in 1966. The Duke of Edinburgh (right) has already received his prizes.

Above:

Right:

Top: In 2012 The Queen, as patron of Join-Up, invited Monty Roberts to join her at the polo to present awards to international polo trainers from South and Central America in recognition of their work in promoting the non–violent training of horses.

The Queen and our Chairman Brian Stein watching the carriage driving on Out-Sourcing Inc. Royal Windsor Cup Final Day.

King Power's Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha receives a prize from The Queen after a Queen's Cup game.

Left: The Queen presents Alan Fall with a runnersup prize in the 2011 Mountbatten Trophy and (this image) Sheikha Maitha with the GCC Trophy in 2013.

1956.

Left: The Queen, Prince Charles, Princess Anne plus a couple of Corgis at Smith's Lawn in June

Below: The Queen in conversation with the Rajamata of Jaipur, Gayatri Devi.

Above: HM The Queen and Arnaud Bamberger in conversation with the Marquis of Milford Haven, patron of the Broncos team at the Cartier Queen's Cup Final in 2006. Alongside George Milford Haven is Facundo Pieres. The match was won by the Dubai team featuring Tariq Albwardy, Adolfo Cambiaso, Piki Alberdi and (out of shot) George Meyrick.

HM The Queen arrives at Guards Polo Club in the late 1960s

Col Paul Belcher, Chairman of Guards Polo Club and Adrian Simonetti of La Martina accompany The Queen after opening the La Martina Store at Smith's Lawn in 2009.

Right: Her Majesty opens the new Clubhouse

HM QUEEN ELIZABETH

Left: Her Majesty presents the Royal Windsor Cup to Rantanada's Rao Rajah Ranut Singh in June 1955, the Club's inaugural year. Below: HM The Queen presenting an award at the 2019 Cartier Cup Final

HM The Queen and Cartier's Arnaud Bamberger present Gabriel Donoso with the Coronation Cup after Chile's victory over England in 2004.

Habtoor Al Habtoor receives a trophy from Her Majesty during a rainy presentation at Smith's Lawn in 2011.

Below: Her Majesty and The Duke of Edinburgh after a Hurlingham versus Aotea match in 1956.

Returning to the Royal Box after treading in with Peter and Zara Phillips.

Above: Presenting Ellerston White's Kerry Packer with the Royal Windsor Cup in 1994. Right: Her Majesty watches a carriage driving display with Lord Patrick Beresford.

HM The Queen making a Cartier presentation to umpire Howard Hipwood.

The Prince of Wales receives a prize from Her Majesty after the Archie David Cup Final in 1988.

The Queen, Prince Charles and Princess Anne meet the ponies at polo on 13 May 1956.

Right: Her Majesty treading in.

Left: Presenting the Mountbatten Trophy to Claire Tomlinson of Los Locos. Below: With the 8th Duke of Wellington in the Royal Box.

Top: Wtih Lauren Feniou and Adolfo Cambiaso after the Cartier Queen's Cup Final in 2018. Left: The official opening

of the Clubhouse in 2009.

Above: Facundo Pieres receives a Cartier winners' prize in 2013 from Her Majesty.

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KING CHARLES III BECOMES THE RANGER OF WINDSOR GREAT PARK

His Majesty follows in his father’s footsteps by taking on the stewardship of this historic landscape

His Majesty The King has officially become The Ranger of Windsor Great Park, 70 years after his father, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, was appointed to the post. The Ranger of Park offers oversight and guidance to the Deputy Ranger and his team in the day-to-day stewardship of one of the country’s oldest landed estates.

The role at Windsor can trace its roots back to 1559 when Sir Henry Neville was appointed Ranger in the reign of HM Queen Elizabeth I. Over the last 460 years, the post of Ranger has been held by the Sovereign and other family members, including The King’s father and also his Grandfather, HM King George VI.

Paul Sedgwick, The Crown Estate’s Managing Director, Rural and Deputy Ranger of Windsor Great Park, said: “We are honoured to have His Majesty as Ranger

of Windsor Great Park, continuing a long tradition of the Sovereign and members of the Royal Family holding this role. Windsor has a wonderful heritage with many precious natural habitats. His Majesty’s passion and commitment to the natural world will be invaluable as we seek to become a centre of excellence for environmental best practice, preserving and enhancing the Great Park for generations to come.”

Windsor Great Park has been the home of Guards Polo Club since it was founded by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in 1955. Brian Stein, Chairman of Guards Polo Club, said on hearing this news: “His Majesty played much of his polo here at Smith’s Lawn, including winning the Queen’s Cup in 1986 and so it is wonderful that His Majesty now takes on this all encompassing role here in the Park, continuing and developing his father’s impressive work within the landscape.” n

THE RANGERS OF WINDSOR GREAT PARK

1559 - 2022

YEARS HELD RANGER OF IN OFFICE THE PARK

1559 – 1593 Sir Henry Neville

1601 - 1616 Sir Charles Howard, Earl of Nottingham

1644 - 1662 Sir Edward Nicholas

1648 - 1650 Philip Herbert, 4th Earl of Pembroke

1662 - 1669 John Mordaunt, 1st Viscount Mordaunt

1668 - 1671 Prince Rupert of the Rhine 1671 - 1697 Baptist May

1697 – 1702 William Bentinck, 1st Earl of Portland

1702 – 1744 Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough (above)

1702 – 1709 Jointly with:

1702 – 1703 John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough

1709 – 1751 John Churchill, Marquis of Blandford

1709 - 1733 Mary Montagu, Duchess of Montagu Henrietta Godolphin, 2nd Duchess of Marlborough

1744 – 1746 John Spencer

1746 – 1766 Prince William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland

1766 – 1791 Prince Henry Frederick, Duke of Cumberland (above)

1791 - 1815 King George III

1815 – 1830 King George IV

1830 - 1837 King William IV

1837 – 1841 Queen Victoria

1841 – 1861 Prince Albert, The Prince Consort (above)

1861 - 1917 Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein

1917 - 1936 King George V

1936 - 1952 King George VI

1952 - 2021 The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

2021 - 2022 Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

2022 - HM King Charles lll

Image: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

SAVE THE DATES

Book early to not miss a moment of the 2023 season

Guards Polo Club will open its Box Office for the 2023 season early in the New Year. There is plenty of fabulous polo planned, all accompanied by some excellent Clubhouse hospitality from Mosimann’s at Guards. Members and Guest Badges will be valid for every game next season, remember we played more than 570 games this year, except the Cartier Queen's Cup Final. We will though, once again, be

offering excellent Members’ rates for this momentous day. There are also exclusive rates for Members for the VIP hospitality packages in the Clubhouse. The only exception is the Clé de Peau Beauté Guards Ladies Charity Polo Day as a percentage of every lunch sale will go to Ovacome, Clé de Peau Beauté’s official charity, and the UK’s leading ovarian cancer organisation.

Our Membership Manager, Vanessa

Cumming, is happy to talk you through any ticketing queries you may have. So don’t hesitate to contact her by emailing membership@guardspoloclub.com early in the New Year. All tickets (Members and Non-Members) will be on sale at www. guardspoloclub.com Our full fixtures list for the season is published on page 86 in this issue of TenGoal so start your diary planning today.

2023 GUARDS POLO TICKETED EVENTS (MEMBERS AND NON-MEMBERS)

Cartier Queen’s Cup Semi-Finals

Wednesday 14 June

Two thrilling, high-goal games and two presentations, plus an excellent Clubhouse lunch menu from Mosimann’s, starting with a Laurent-Perrier Champagne Reception. The most important thing about this day is that lunch is always planned around the matches so that diners will not have to miss a moment of these fantastic, heart-stopping games which deliver fabulous polo across at least 12 chukkas.

Out-Sourcing Inc. Royal Windsor Cup Final Sunday 25 June

The unrivalled combination of pomp, pageantry and polo are the distinctive hallmarks of Guards Polo Club’s oldest tournament, the Royal Windsor Cup. Final’s day delivers a delightful blend of equestrian style. The day features not only two hotly contested finals – the Royal Windsor Cup and the Mountbatten Trophy – but also includes an elegant parade of champions from the British Driving Society’s annual summer show. Add a touch of Japanese charm into this heady mix, courtesy of our title sponsors, Out-Sourcing Inc and this date delivers style and charm in every moment.

Archie David Cup Final Sunday 2 July

Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup Sunday 13 August

The Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup returns for its third edition in 2023. Sponsored by John Collins’s Talacrest, the leading classic Ferrari dealer, finals day highlights horsepower at its finest. This may be from the players’ incredible, high-goal ponies or from the many fabulous Ferraris on display throughout the day, thanks to both Talacrest and the Ferrari Owners Club of Great Britain. An excellent Clubhouse menu perfectly rounds off an already super-stylish day to make this a must-not-miss event in mid-August.

Cartier Queen’s Cup Final Sunday 18 June

This competitive and fast-paced polo final is the culmination of one of the most famous polo tournaments in the world. With Cartier generously supporting this 22-goal tournament for the 12th year and a military band entertaining the spectators pre- and post-match, finals day always delivers an abundance of elegance and style. Add in a bespoke menu for the VIP Clubhouse Enclosure that is fitting for such a significant, royal occasion and finals day becomes the sporting event of the year.

This competition is the UK’s leading eight-goal tournament and so finals day delivers a coveted mix of fast-paced polo and relaxing, Clubhouse hospitality. The plan for the day features three competitive and thrilling matches plus an extensive Clubhouse programme that concludes with sunset cocktails on our elegant Terrace as the day unwinds. This combination of great sport and good food comes together in early July to deliver the perfect, summer day out for all the family.

Clé de Peau Beauté Guards Ladies Charity Polo Final Saturday 2 September

Surely the most beautiful day in our calendar as the luxury beauty brand Clé de Peau Beauté delivers perfection for everyone on this ladies’ day. The title sponsor awards stand-out prizes for those in the final, while the gorgeous, pop-up Clé de Peau Beauté treatment room is open to all for free mini treatments. Members and visitors can also sample the boutique retail village on the La Martina Lawn, a delicious Clubhouse lunch with cocktails and gifts and take part in an array of fun fundraising for Ovacome, the UK’s leading ovarian cancer charity, This really is beautiful polo at its most beautiful best.

CHARITABLE EVENTS BREAK £2MILLION BAR

There is one advantage to getting older; your Club Membership could be reduced. So if you are a Social Member who will be 75 on or before the 1 April 2023 you will be entitled to a discount on your Membership fee for the

This year Guards Polo Club has excelled itself in its fundraising. At the end of this season we have raised more than £2.5million for charity, an incredible sum. The charities that have benefitted from your generosity include:

Anna Freud National Centre for

Children and Families

Battersea Dogs Home

Ebony Horse Club

East Anglian Children’s Hospices

Family Action

Foundling Museum

Household Cavalry Foundation

London Air Ambulance

Macmillan Cancer Care

Ovacome

Power of Polo

Queen’s Green Canopy

Scots Guards Charity

The Forward Trust

The Passage

Unicef

So thank you to everyone that has sponsored an event, bought an auction lot, purchased a Clubhouse Lunch on Ladies Day or volunteered their time to make these events become the stand-out days in our calendar. We couldn’t do it without you. n

upcoming season. Please contact Pam Manku, our Accounts Manager, on 01784 434212 or email pam.manku@ guardspoloclub.com with your details. This will enable our accounts team to send out the relevant forms

so that we can amend the database and, more importantly, your direct debit. Please note that direct debit payments are taken in late January so do make sure you have notified the office well before then.

PAUL WITHERS

Paul Withers was a Cowdray man through and through but warrants a special mention in this Guards Polo Club publication due to two factors.

Firstly, Paul played with our Founder HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in the Windsor Park team and together they won the Gold Cup (British Open) at Cowdray in 1969. Secondly, on retirement from polo he became a professional umpire and was a valued member of our umpiring squad here at Smith’s Lawn.

Paul’s polo career started while serving with the 3rd company of the Royal Horse Artillery. During this time he won the Inter Regimental Tournament twice with his regiment – in 1960 and ’61. On leaving the army he took up polo professionally. The American five-goaler Mike Holden White lent him some ponies and Paul began by playing in Mike’s Polo Cottage team.

At the height of his career Paul played off seven goals and was a key member of the England Polo Team. His victories with the national squad included the Coronation Cup here at Smith’s Lawn as well as the Copa Sesquicentenario in Buenos Aires.

However, Paul is best known as the lynch pin for the Cowdray Park team. Victories in the world-famous orange shirt included British Open victories in 1961 and ’62 and The Queen’s Cup in 1963, ’81 and ‘83. His name can also be found on the Warwickshire Cup, Cowdray Park Challenge Trophy, the United Services Cup and many more.

Paul’s successes were not just confined

to the UK either. He won the Gold Cup in Deauville in 1978 (Anadariya) and 1984 (Kinz), while in America he claimed the Butler Handicap. Meanwhile, in Australia he added the National Open to his polo CV.

Following his retirement from the sport as a player, Paul took up professional umpiring. He was a familiar face on the fields at Guards Polo Club umpiring and supervising the umpires in the our many eight-goal tournaments. His knowledge and experience of the game made him a tough yet respected umpire by all the players, regardless of their handicap. The Hurlingham Polo Association recognised his

achievements in 2013, awarding him their Lifetime Achievement Award.

Paul divided his time between his home here in Sussex and a house in the USA. America had become his second home following his marriage to Sheldon Gerry in 1972. Sadly Paul died on the eve of their 50th wedding anniversary.

Sheldon, who survives Paul, is related to Elbridge Gerry, a Founding Father of the United States and the country’s fifth Vice President (1813-1814). Paul was buried in St James’s Cemetery, Delhi, New York, last month. n

Diana Butler

Above: HM The Queen makes a presenation to Paul for umpiring at the Royal Windsor Cup in 2014. Below: The Gold Cup-winning team of 1969, Windsor Park, reunite on the Royal Box Lawn in 2011. From left: Lord Patrick Beresford, The Marquess of Waterford, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, Paul Withers.

MILITARY SPLENDOUR

Major Jamie Hayward, a former officer in the Scots Guards, unravels the traditions and anachronisms of the Household Division regiments who were all in the spotlight throughout HM Queen Elizabeth ll’s state funeral

PHOTOGRAPHS BY IMAGES OF POLO, ALAMY, ADOBE STOCK

HM Queen Elizabeth ll's funeral procession makes its way past Buckingham Palace.

he death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll and the momentous days that followed, culminating in her magnificent and uplifting funeral, will have been particularly poignant for Guards Polo Club members given Her Majesty’s close association with the Club since its inception in 1955. The participation of the Household Division in the days prior to Her funeral, and on the day itself is, in particular, a timely reminder of those familiar links that the Club has been privileged to appreciate.

Ten of the 12 serving, playing members of the Club participated in the lead up to and conduct of the state funeral including vigils at the lying-in state, guards of honour, mounted escorts, mounted street lining, marching detachments, marshalls and orderlies. Who could have envisaged that the Major General Commanding the Household Division, Major General Christopher Ghika, having visited the Club on 2 September would, just 17 days later, command Her Majesty’s funeral procession or that our Military Playing Member Director, Lieutenant Colonel Tom Armitage, would be the Field Officer of the Sovereign’s Escort that followed Her Majesty’s coffin.

Sharp eyed readers would have noted Her Majesty’s equerries flanking the coffin, most particularly Lieutenant Colonel Nana Twumasi-Ankrah RHG/D, her penultimate equerry and a familiar face at the Club when attending Her Majesty during the Eton Tea Party in the Royal Box. However, possibly the most apposite was that all four members of the victorious Army Team in the Major General’s Cup stood vigil at the corners of Her Majesty’s catafalque in Westminster Hall.

Manpower aside the horses of the Household Division are likewise a living reminder of our close military connections as a Club. Who could forget the magnificent display of the Household Cavalry Musical Ride on The Queen’s Ground at this year’s Coronation Cup - the very same horses

then became part of the funeral procession, carrying mounted troopers.

Pride of place though must go to the Life Guards’ Atlas (LG), the magnificent Drum Horse who led the Band of the Welsh Guards and players onto The Queen’s Ground for the final of the 2022 Cartier Queen’s Cup and Perseus (RHG/D), who likewise led the Band of the Household Cavalry and players on to the field for the final of this year’s Out-Sourcing Inc Royal Windsor Cup. Although a different drum horse, Apollo (RHG/D), was on Parade for the Funeral Procession, Atlas joined Apollo on 2 June 2022 for Her Majesty’s final Trooping the Colour.

Whilst the respective flags of the seven regiments of the Household Division, seven joined in one, proudly fly above our grandstands, the various Regimental differences and their origins might appear somewhat blurred and incomprehensible to our non-military members! So here is a guide to these regiments’ individual histories and defining characteristics, of which having HM King Charles lll as their Colonel-in-Chief is one of the few commonalities!

All seven Regiments of the Household Division played a pivotal role in HM Queen Elizabeth ll’s State Funeral, as did the King’s Troop that bore Her Majesty’s coffin on the First World War gun carriage from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall and fired the gun salutes in Hyde Park. Special mention should also be made of the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) that fired the gun salutes at The Tower of London. Although not officially part of the Household

Division, they are the oldest regiment in the British Army, formed in 1537 and the second oldest in the world. Their Light Cavalry Squadron, first established in 1861 and then re-established in 1979 as a uniformed civilian ceremonial unit, is stabled at Flemish Farm in Windsor Great Park.

It is impossible to underestimate the logistic effort and planning that went into Operation London Bridge (Her Majesty’s state funeral) and easy to overlook some of the background practicalities. Most of the Household Cavalry and Foot Guards horses were at grass in Leicestershire on 8 September and maybe some 140 horses (not including The King’s Troop) had to be shod or reshod and made parade ready in just two days. Full credit must be given to all members of the Household Cavalry for achieving the task so magnificently but especially the farriers, four of whom were mounted on the processions in London and Windsor carrying their ceremonial axes. This tradition dates back to when axes were carried in battle so that the hoof of a fallen horse could be removed to prove to the quartermaster that the horse had not been illegally sold!

The curtain has now fallen on the second Elizabethan era in a blaze of triumph and pride. The funeral is estimated to have been watched by 5.1 billion people. That means approximately 60% of the world’s population followed this most glorious of send-offs of which the Household Division was at its heart.

LIFE GUARDS (LG)

Regimental Colonel: Lieutenant General Sir Edward Smyth-Osbourne KCVO CBE

Base: Bulford (Household Cavalry Regiment) and London (Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment)

Motto: Honi soit qui mal y pense (Shame on him who thinks ill of it)

Quick March: Millanollo

Slow March: Life Guards Slow March

The Life Guards is the senior regiment of the British Army and can trace its formation back to the two troops of royalist gentlemen who followed Charles ll into exile in 1651. Shortly before the Restoration they were formed into a Royal Mounted Bodyguard and returned with him to England in 1660 and expanded into four troops of Horse Guards. In 1788, they became the 1st and 2nd Regiments of Life Guards. In World War One they were re-rolled into two Machine Gun Battalions. In 1922 the two Regiments amalgamated to become The Life Guards and in 1992 they formed a union with The Blues and Royals to create The Household Cavalry armoured reconnaissance and mounted ceremonial units. Recognisable by scarlet tunics, white plumes and white sheepskins on their saddles although confusingly trumpeters have a red plume and farriers have blue tunics and black plumes! As the Army's senior Regiment it was the Household Cavalry’s honour to mount the first vigil at the foot of the catafalque, which included Lieutenant Colonel Tom Armitage (LG) –Commanding Officer of The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

Anachronisms: The rank of Sergeant is replaced with Corporal of the Horse and the senior Warrant Officer is the Regimental Corporal Major whilst the senior farrier is known as the Farrier Major.

“

SOME 140 HORSES HAD TO BE MADE PARADE READY IN JUST TWO DAYS”

The magnificent drum horse Perseus.

Members of the Honorable Artillery Company

Above: All four members of the victorious Army Team in this year’s Major General’s Cup - Captain Oliver Powell (Welsh Guards), Captain Giles Bromley-Martin (Irish Guards), Lt The Hon George Cadogan (Welsh Guards), Captain Tom Windsor-Clive (Coldstream Guards) - just days later stood vigil at the corners of Her Majesty’s catafalque in Westminster Hall. Below: The mighty Atlas, one of the stars of the show at the Cartier Queen’s Cup, was also on parade for Her Majesty’s final Trooping the Colour.

BLUES AND ROYALS

(Royal Horse Guards and 1st Dragoons) (RHG/D)

Regimental Colonel: HRH The Princess Royal Base: Bulford (Household Cavalry Regiment) and London (Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment)

Motto: Honi soit qui mal y pense (Shame on him who thinks ill of it)

Quick March: Quick March of The Blues and Royals

Slow March: Slow March of The Blues and Royals

The second senior regiment of the British Army formed in 1969 from the merger of the Royal Horse Guards raised in 1650 and the Royal Dragoons raised in 1661. They formed a union with The Life Guards in 1992 becoming The Household Cavalry – both armoured reconnaissance and mounted ceremonial units.

Recognisable by blue tunics, red plumes and black sheepskins on their saddles, which remain the same for both trumpeters and farriers.

Anachronisms: 2nd Lieutenants are known as Cornets and both Prince William, the Prince of Wales and Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex have served in the Regiment. Unusually troopers and non-commissioned officers may salute officers without headdress – a custom dating back to the Battle of Warburg in 1760 when the Marquis of Granby having lost both his hat and his wig still saluted his commander. Like the Life Guards the rank of Sergeant is replaced with Corporal of the Horse, with the senior Warrant Officer and senior farrier being known respectively as the Regimental Corporal Major and Farrier Major.

COLDSTREAM GUARDS (COLDM GDS)

Regimental Colonel: Lieutenant General Sir James Bucknall KCB CBE Base: Windsor and London (No 7 and 17 Company)

Motto: Nulli Secundus (Second to None)

Quick March: Millanollo

Slow March: Figaro

The oldest, continuously serving regular regiment in the British Army dating to 1650 when Oliver Cromwell permitted Colonel Monck to raise his own regiment near Berwick as part of the New Model Army, although after the Restoration they became a royal regiment. As befitting such an ancient Regiment they have earned 117 battle honours, 13 Victoria Crosses and one George Cross. Recognisable by wearing their buttons in pairs, having a red plume on the right side of the bearskin cap and a garter star on the collar.

Anachronisms: The Regiment always stands on the left of the line when on parade with the rest of the Foot Guards, so standing “second to none” – their regimental motto. At dinner nights they do not toast the health of the Sovereign as, given their former allegiance to the Republican cause before taking up arms for the Monarchy, their loyalty is not disputed!

GRENADIER GUARDS

(GREN GDS)

Regimental Colonel: Returned to her late Majesty The Queen

Base: Aldershot and London (Nijmegen and Ypres Company)

Motto: Honi soit qui mal y pense (Shame on him who thinks ill of it)

Quick March: The British Grenadiers

Slow March: Scipio

The senior infantry regiment of the British Army was raised at Bruges in 1656. Their total of 14 Victoria Crosses is unmatched by any of the other seven regiments. The King’s Company traditionally provides the pall bearers for all deceased monarchs and many will remember the exemplary

carriage of Her Majesty’s coffin by members of the then Queen’s Company, before HM The King placed the Camp Flag upon his mother’s coffin - the last act before Her Majesty’s committal. Recognisable by wearing their buttons singly, having a white plume on the left side of their bearskin cap and a grenade on the collar.

Anachronisms: When reporting for duty the mounting officer will runmarch in full uniform to see the Adjutant so as not to waste his precious time! Grenadiers never say yes and so when answering a question they just reply “Sir” in differing intonations to signify the intended response!

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SCOTS GUARDS (SG)

Regimental Colonel:

HRH Prince Edward, Duke of Kent Base: Catterick and London (F and G (Messines) Company)

Motto: Nemo Me Impune Lacessit (No-one touches me with impunity)

Quick March: Heilan Laddie Slow March: The Garb of Old Gaul

The 3rd Regiment of Foot Guards was raised in 1642 by the Marquess of Argyll as the personal bodyguard to King Charles l of England and Scotland for services in Ireland, although it wasn’t brought into the English establishment until 1686. Besides having 11 Victoria Cross holders, the regiment has earned 93 battle honours. Recognisable by wearing their buttons in threes, having no plume on the bearskin cap and a thistle on the collar.

Anachronisms: At officers’ dinner nights when the Pipe Major has

completed playing at the table he is invited by the presiding officer to drink a quaich to the Monarch’s health in Gaelic – a generous measure of whiskey! Having imbibed the measure he is requested to bid goodnight to the assembled officers – verbally - to ensure that he has not squirrelled away the whiskey to sell later!

IRISH GUARDS (IG)

Regimental Colonel:

HRH The Prince of Wales

Base: Aldershot

Motto: Quis Separabit (Who Shall Separate Us)

Quick March: St Patrick’s Day

Slow March: Let Erin Remember

The 4th Regiment of Foot Guards was raised on the orders of Queen Victoria in 1900 to commemorate the Irishmen who fought in the Second Boer War (1899 – 1902) for the British Empire, initially being comprised of 75 men from the Grenadier Guards. The Regiment has the distinction of Guardsman Edward Charlton being the final recipient of the Victoria Cross to be awarded in the European theatre during the Second World War. His medal is now on display at Wellington Barracks in London. Recognisable by wearing their buttons in fours which feature the Harp of Ireland, having a St Patrick’s blue plume on the right side of the bearskin cap and a shamrock on the collar.

WELSH GUARDS (WG)

Regimental Colonel: HM The King Base: Windsor Motto: Cymru am Byth (Wales Forever)

Quick March: Rising of the Lark

Slow March: Men of Harlech

The 5th Regiment of Foot Guards was raised by Royal Warrant of King George V in 1915 in order to include Wales in the national component of the Foot Guards, with the Grenadier Guards providing a large part of the initial manpower, namely five

officers and 634 men. Although the youngest of the seven Household Division regiments, the Welsh Guards have earned 47 battle honours. Recognisable by wearing their buttons in fives, having a white, green, white plume on the left side of the bearskin cap and a leek on the collar.

Anachronisms: The Welsh Guards report for duty seven minutes before parade, unlike the rest of the Household Division where it is five minutes.

Anachronisms: Each year on St Patrick’s Day, operations permitting, the Regiment receives “royal” shamrock – a custom dating back to 1901. Just one year younger, dating back to 1902, is the tradition of the Irish Kennel Club presenting an Irish Wolfhound to the Regiment. Since 1961, this Wolfhound has been recognised as an official mascot, so is entitled to quartering (accommodation), food and veterinary services at public expense. The current mascot Seamus proudly took his place with the Regimental Band as the Irish Guards Trooped their Colour on 2 June 2022 for their Colonel-in-Chief's final Birthday Parade. n

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KING OF QUEEN’S

Dillon Bacon secured his second Cartier Queen’s Cup victory this summer with his own Great Oaks team. Diana Butler caught up with this competitive, two-goal patron over the winter months to unearth his secrets to high-goal success

DILLON

PHOTOGRAPHY: IMAGES OF POLO

Dillon Bacon returning the Cartier Queen's Cup to the Clubhouse for the start of the 2021 season.

There are two dates that will forever be etched on Dillon Bacon’s mind – Sunday 23 August 2020 and Sunday 18 June 2022. These are the dates when the Great Oaks patron lifted the Cartier Queen’s Cup. “Winning the tournament the first time was the best feeling in my life, nothing to date has compared with that feeling. Then I had two more seasons to try and go for it again and so I say winning it a second time was amazing.”

So how confident was Dillon at the start of this year’s tournament, knowing there were 15 teams taking part? “We felt that we had a competitive team going into the tournament. I am a two-goal patron of course and so being a four-man team you always have a chance,” explained Dillon. “However I think you always need to have the dream that you have a chance to win. On balance there were probably eight or 10 teams that could have won the tournament which I think makes this year all the more special in terms of the win compared to when we won in 2020.”

Although a player of polo since he was a boy – Dillon won the National Schools Championship with Radley College in 2009 – he admits that Great Oaks’ high-goal campaigns were the result of much critical thinking. “I played in 2020 because I had been following the Castagnola brothers [Barto and Jeta] for the previous two years, seeing the way they played in Dubai and hearing about them in Argentina. I had never played with them but of course, had played against them when I played for La Indiana in 2019. I had also seen quite a lot of the history of Adolfo Cambiaso and Facundo Pieres and saw the changing of the guard moment in 2020. It was very much an analytical decision that if we were ever to play the high-goal in a serious manner then this is the year to do it.

“So we went in that 2020 season [Dillon Bacon, Jeta & Barto Castagnola, Santi Laborde] and got to all three finals which is pretty unheard of – the Prince of Wales, Queen’s Cup and Gold Cup – and thankfully won the Queen’s. So my point is that I think

DILLON BACON

that we were clearly the favourite that season based on those two boys.

“This year there was a more balanced team [Dillon Bacon, James Beim, Cruz Heguy, Juan Martin Nero] and we did incredibly well because of all of us coming together and building a really good feeling between all of us. It was very special for me.

“A big distinction between this season and past seasons is that we all had an

“I have never seen so much self-belief in a crucial moment in a game where we are actually down and time is against us”

Laurent Feniou, Managing Director of Cartier UK, presents Dillon with the magnificent Cartier Queen's Cup for a second time.

DILLON

“It is an amazing luxury to be able to compete at the high-goal level and very rewarding to be able to compete against the best”

DILLON BACON

amazing relationship off the field. There was no tension; everyone felt very at ease. I remember very distinctly in this year’s final that we were down by two or three goals at half time and everyone was saying ‘guys we can do this’. I have never seen so much self-belief in a crucial moment in a game where we are actually down and time is against us. In many respects we were lucky to win that match because the odds were hugely against us – down three goals with 2½ minutes to go – but it was that camaraderie off the field that translated into complete trust on the field and meant that we won. That compares to the season before where we were up by two goals at half time in the Gold Cup semi-final but there was a sense that we were losing.”

Training and planning are the keys to Dillon’s success. “I take competing at the

highest level in the UK very seriously. I even took a year off work just to play polo from August 2020 – July 2021. Although, ironically we did not win that year! Nonetheless, it was a great learning experience and I think it added to our success this past year.

“I deliberately organised to play the Polo Tour in Argentina at the end of March/April of this year. Juanma [Nero] couldn’t play

as he had obligations in the USA but I had three-quarters of the team – Cruz, Beim and myself. It was incredible have a decent month playing together before getting to the UK.”

As an amateur player Dillon is under no illusions that he has to do everything possible to be prepped for a polo season. “You don’t have luxury of playing with professionals every day so you have to work out what you have to do to arrive at the same result,” he explained. “So playing arena polo in the winter is a good way to keep legs fit and the mind focused on the sport.

“You need to create value by doing what other people are not doing. I hired a trainer, Antonio Ferrera a personal trainer for golfers, who travels with me. I really do think that although I am not going to be the best player or best breeder I do think we have come up with the best training programme because

“What the Castagnolas have managed to do in the past four years is to create true self belief in a generation of players”

DILLON BACON

Top: Great Oaks LL v Park Place Vaara in this year's Cartier Queen's Cup Final. Above from lef t: Dillon in action in the Gold Cup semi-finals at Cowdray Park; the winning team in 2020, also featuring the Castagnola boys and Santi Laborde; in action on the stunnng Castle Ground at Flemish Farm.

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no-one else has done it. We have built a state-of-the-art gym at Les Lions with lots of treatments including an ice bath and infra-red sauna to help recovery.

“We have different stages of training. Pre-season is lots of lifting, heavy weights to build your body mass and strength, while during the season it is more trying to maintain your strength. Also a lot of Pilates, which is incredibly good for your legs, riding muscles and keeping in shape. That can help mitigate that you are not riding all day.”

So what are Dillon’s plans for this season? “It is an amazing luxury to be able to compete at the high-goal level and very rewarding but to be able to compete against the best you need to spend a lot of time and energy devoted to it, but I don’t want to do it half-heartedly. So I will be playing 15- and 18-goal which is very competitive but will

bring down the pressure and probably the time commitment,” he revealed.

Although Dillon may be stepping back from the high-goal he is hugely positive about the future of the sport. “There is so much self confidence in this generation of polo players that I did not see in the 2000s when I was growing up. Back then it was a duopoly between the two greats, Facu and Adolfo. I think they just established in people’s minds that you could not win. What the Castagnolas

have managed to do in the past four years is to create true self belief in a generation of players.

“These kids don’t care who they are playing and it is mind-blowing. I think they have truly changed the sport. In the Jockey Club final it is, as far as I know, the first time all three boys [Barto, Jeta, Poroto Cambiaso] have played together and the synergy that they have between them; I have never seen anything like it. It blows my mind. Those three kids are going to be unstoppable. I don’t know what team could be created to compete against them?”

DILLON BACON

It will be sad not to see the current Queen’s Cup champions defend their title in 2023 but Dillon’s perfect blend of passion and clinical professionalism does ensure that his rivals in next year’s medium-goal will have to be at the top of their games! n

The winning Cartier Queen's Cup team is joined by friends and family to celebrate a brilliant win.

Above, left to right: Dillon is congratulaed by Eduardo Heguy; Dillon joins Club Chairman Brian Stein at the Cartier Queen's Cup Draw 2021; Dillon with his father Louis at Guards Polo Club.

“It was that camaraderie off the field that translated into complete trust on the field and I believe meant that we won”

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BRIXTON CHUKKAS

Hidden away in a busy corner of South London is an equine haven, offering a safe space for those children most in need to discover themselves and a love of horses

In the shadow of brutalist-esque high rise flats and a stone’s throw from the bustle, bangs, and bravado of Brixton Market, there is an unusual sight. A cleanly swept yard, proudlyscrubbed stables, and a full yard of clipped ponies attended by smiling riders can be found nestled in the midst of the most urban of settings in South East London. This aspirational haven is Ebony Horse Club.

Launched in 2011, on the belief that your postcode should not dictate your access to opportunity, this centre now offers riding lessons to 150 children each week. Young people, many of whom live in the Lambeth Borough, learn their equitation fundamentals as well as general horse care and stable management, but most importantly develop key life skills such

as communication and responsibility in a safe and uplifting environment. The Club offers a selection of core services including member lessons, educational trips out of the city to broaden the students’ horizons,

youth volunteer programmes, one-to-one and group mentoring, plus the RIDE programme, delivering riding sessions for local schools and youth groups.

The charity also works with a collection of patrons and trustees, including racing presenter Oli Bell and Ronke Philips, Senior Correspondent at ITV News, and benefits from the patronage of Her Majesty The Queen Consort. Enjoying an enduring relationship with Ebony, Her Majesty has long supported the charity’s work, hosting receptions at Clarence House and opening the community riding centre. In an official statement on the charity’s website, Her Majesty says of the group’s work: “As the proud President of Ebony Horse Club, I am hugely impressed by its work with young people in one of London’s most deprived inner city areas. Learning

WORDS: CHARLEY LARCOMBE

PHOTOGRAPHY: IMAGES OF POLO, PA IMAGES/ALAMY, EBONY HORSE CLUB, GUY BELL/ ALAMY LIVE NEWS

“It’s all the surrounding elements that makes Ebony special: it’s raising the aspirations of our young people, improving their confidence, feeling empathy, amplifying their voices, and creating opportunity”

SIDONY HOLDSWORTH, COO EBONY HORSE CLUB

“As the proud President of Ebony Horse Club, I am hugely impressed by its work with young people in one of London’s most deprived inner city areas. Learning to ride takes a lot of courage, patience and determination and it allows children to discover inner strengths they never knew they had and, even more importantly, improves their self-confidence”

HM THE QUEEN CONSORT

to ride takes a lot of courage, patience and determination and it allows children to discover inner strengths they never knew they had and, even more importantly, improves their self-confidence.”

Indeed, riding also improves core skills such as teamwork and resilience as well as being repeatedly proven to positively effect a person’s physical and mental well-being. Supported by the team of volunteers and youth workers and encouraged by the stable of ponies –including the sweet Big Joe and Poppet, the one-eyed Shetland – the young people who attend Ebony Horse Club can expect a fully holistic approach to their experience.

“Whether it’s a one-off lesson or a long-standing programme, our approach is all-encompassing,” explains Sidony Holdsworth, the charity’s Chief Operating Officer. “The riding itself provides an opportunity for pure enjoyment, doing

EBONY

Above: HM The Queen Consort meets Laura Boland, the Ebony Horse Club Yard Manager and Splash during a reception for the charity at Clarence House in London in 2019.

HM The Queen Consort with Natasha Williams (centre), 19, during a visit to the Ebony Horse Club in 2017.

something just for fun. But it’s all the surrounding elements that makes Ebony special: it’s raising the aspirations of our young people, improving their confidence, feeling empathy, amplifying their voices, and creating opportunity. Truly listening to those who walk onto the yard and creating a personalised experience is the golden thread that weaves through our whole approach.”

One of the biggest struggles for many of the adolescents to overcome is the ability to trust. Yet, there is nothing like your first introduction to a horse to ensure swagger is left at the stable door. Being asked to quickly put their trust into one of the grooms or

instructors as they put their foot in a stirrup for the first time is no mean feat, but that ability to connect with both those that work at Ebony and the ponies is one of the cornerstones of the experience. “Our staff are incredibly committed and they continually provide an experience that is safe as well as fun,” comments Sidony. “And our young people are fearless.”

It is this instilled confidence that has contributed to former Ebony alumni pursuing further education, even going on to Cambridge University, training and riding in the Magnolia Cup at Glorious Goodwood, and experiencing opportunities that are simply not available on the city streets – such as playing polo at Guards.

In past years, a team from Ebony has been invited to play at Smith's Lawn by the unique Power of Polo charity, with riders competing on the Club’s top playing fields. Drawing on skills they had learnt in the run up to this exhibition match, the young players threw themselves into the experience, enjoying the friendly matches and revelling in the opportunity. “Such experiences challenge our people, but are hugely empowering,” comments Sidony. “It is these types of experiences that offer aspiration to those from disadvantaged communities. It provides potential and hope; it is not just a polo match. We continue to strive to make a lasting impact on all those we work with.” n

Top: The Power of Polo charity introduces Ebony Horse Club members to the delights of polo. Above: Charlie Bruin, CEO of Liberata, a sponsor of the Power of Polo event, with players and suupporters at Guards Polo Club.

Right: HM The Queen Consort chats with a member of the Ebony Horse Club during a visit in 2017.

Launched on the belief that your postcode should not dictate your access to opportunity, this centre now offers riding lessons to 150 children each week

Action from the Power of Polo Day, supported by Out-Sourcing Inc. at Guards Polo Club earlier this summer. Below: A member of the Ebony Horse Club is put through her paces in South London.

Early morning in the Park.

PRESERVE & CONSERVE

Windsor Great Park’s Chief Forester Richard Everett and the Keeper of the Gardens John Anderson reveal why the gardeners of the Mediterranean region may have the answer to maintaining an historic landscape

WORDS: DIANA BUTLER

n the same week that it was announced that HM King Charles lll would become the Head Ranger of Windsor Great Park (see page 24) I had the privilege of meeting two men who are working to maintain and protect this most royal of English landscapes. Richard Everett is Windsor Great Park’s Chief Forester, while John Anderson has the wonderful title of Keeper of the Gardens.

Our conversation quickly turned to the changing weather. More importantly, how this magnificent Park, which dates back more than 1,000 years, can adapt and survive.

“Climate change is a big challenge for us – we are seeing that more in the past few years,” explained John Anderson. “Just this spring we had Storms Eunice and Franklin which knocked down 100 trees in the Gardens and Parkland and then we had a very dry summer. Water is precious – we were constrained with the amount of water we could extract by licence and that came very close to stopping. So that reminds us

how precious water is and what we need to look at going forward.

“So we have to be mindful of everything that we plant for the future and how it will grow due to the climate. For example, we are planting oaks in the Park. People are always amazed when I say that but there are more than 250 species in the UK and only two are native. We have had Mexican Oak in the collection here at Windsor for about 25 years and they are beginning to do extremely well.

“There is plenty of hybridising now too. The Victorians loved hybrids – they took the southern European Oaks – the Turkey Oaks, the Cork Oaks – and crossed them with the natives. The Luccombe Oak is one such hybrid and will grow to 100ft and is already in our landscape. It could have the potential to be transferred into an oak wood or could become an avenue tree. We don’t know yet but we do have a lot of information on our doorstep which can help us make these crucial decisions.”

“There is an interesting balance here at Windsor,” added Richard Everett. “How you blend the new with the old in such an historic landscape. The expectation here is of an English Oak landscape with big mature, native trees. We are very aware that we are custodians of the landscape but are also aware that we need to make that landscape resilient for the future. Because if we don’t, it will be failing for generations.

are generally looking at tree species that are grown well in central and southern

“We

“We are very aware that we are custodians of the landscape but are also aware that we need to make that landscape resilient for the future”

RICHARD EVERETT

The Valley Gardens, just a short walk from Smith's Lawn.

“Today we are probably one of the top five gardens in the UK in terms of our landscape, diversity and the way in which gardens are having to change”

JOHN ANDERSON

France, Mediterranean areas, even up into the Atlas Mountains region in north Africa. Our focus is on areas where there is potentially a similar climate to that which we are going to be experiencing in around 80 years’ time.

“It is important to remember that all the woodland on the estate is managed under these three pillars: commercial, environment, social. So a key thing for us as foresters is to maintain the commercial aspect of timber and whether it makes a good use of time –important in terms of sustainability in producing renewable building materials for example. So we look at trees that are widely utilised in their native areas – so what are they milling in southern France or Turkey?”

John added: “If you look at The Long Walk for example – what trees will be put back there that will last 100 years considering the kinds of things like pests and diseases? We are under attack from new pests and diseases yearly due to the change in the weather.”

“A lot of work we try to do in the forest is to improve its resilience going forward,” said Richard. “Forest practice over the past century had been to simplify forests for management practices and that happened at Windsor to a certain extent in our more commercial areas. Perhaps not so much around the Great Park, but we have some woods that are made up of very few individual species and so a lot of our planning going forward is to bring more species into those woods, to make them more resilient.”

The future is also very much on the mind

of John Anderson and his Gardens team.

“In 1989 there were no champion trees [the tallest and largest of its species by county, country and for all Britain and Ireland] as the great storm of 1987 had knocked them all

out. We lost 1,500 trees in the gardens alone and so there were thousands and thousands of trees in the forests just lying on the floor. This highlighted how vulnerable we were. The Keeper of the Gardens at the time, John Bond, realised that we needed more diversity and we continue to follow that policy to this day. Today we are probably one of the top five gardens in the UK in terms of our landscape, diversity and the way in which gardens are having to change.”

JOHN ANDERSON

The recent pandemic saw an increase in the number of visitors to the Park – everyone needing some outside space. However the increased footfall brought added pressure to the trees in the Park. “You may think that trees that have been there for six, seven or eight hundred years would not be affected but they are very sensitive to changes in soil around them,” explained Richard. “So we do what we can to make their lives as easy as possible – allow vegetation to grow up around the base so it becomes brambly and unattractive for people to walk over or even put low fences around them.”

There are currently 6,000 ancient and veteran trees that are mapped in the Park. One of these veteran trees, the Signing Oak in the Deer Park, has recently been nominated as one of 70 Ancient Trees, part of a nationwide network under the umbrella of the Queen’s Green Canopy (QCG). John was on the QGC committee and admits that it was not an easy task. “We had to do cover the whole of the UK and all 70 trees could easily have been picked in the south of England, if not the Park itself! The most important criteria for

“We have to propagate those trees that are showing resilience to the climate so that you can start planting those trees that may have adapted to the conditions”

Both the Chief Forester Richard Everett and Keeper of the Parks John Anderson are very aware that they need to make the landscape resilient for the future to protect it for future generations

the committee was public access – there is no point nominating a tree that no one could see. We also needed a variety of species – a lime, a sorbus, a hawthorn for example.”

This depth of history within Windsor Great Park and continuity of ownership highlights its unique position. “Because of the Park’s longevity and the fact that successive Monarchs have been able to preserve the landscape we are in a very fortunate position,” said John. “That said, we are always mindful of how we take the Park forward because climate change is not going away and if this summer is a trend to go by then that gives us a bigger challenge. We have to propagate those trees that are showing resilience to the climate so that you can start planting those threes that may have adapted to the conditions.”

Both John and Richard know that they have a big challenge on their hands in sustainably managing the Park and Gardens going forward but both are realists who are fully aware that long-held practices may have to change. Working closely with Des Sussex, the Crown Estate’s Biodiversity and Conservation Manager, they are already concentrating on changing mindsets and making sure their teams understand why these changes are being made. “It could be as simple as be cutting the grass every two

RICHARD

or three weeks instead of every week,” said John. “It’s important that wildlife and species can move freely between areas without thinking ‘oh the grass is too short’.”

“Because of its history, size and diversity, Windsor Great Park has such a massive range of species here,” added Richard. “In the forests the most important habitat is the decaying wood and we have got beetles and flies here that are really only at Windsor and so they are absolutely critical. When you go towards the southern end of the estate the primary habitat is used by ground nesting birds like nightjars, Dartford Warblers and wood larks which are all rare birds on a UK scale. We have some good habitats for moths, butterflies and dragonflies in Swinley Forest which boost other species higher up the food chain such as birds of prey. The biodiversity here on the estate is phenomenal and trying to manage it so that everyone is happy is not easy. Things like bats for example – we are not 100% sure but think that we have every species of UK bat at Windsor –generally want dark and old trees which is particularly at odds with what butterflies want – a sunny glade with short grass and flowers. A lot of decisions we make through our management is to try and get that blend!” n

FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE PARK

“It depends on the season. In the Autumn it is that walk from Savill past Obelisk Pond where you get some of the reflections down there, and then walking through the trees at Carters Bar heading towards Valley Gardens and down to Breakheart. That is just one area. One of my favourite trees is the amazing beech tree at Windy Corner in the Valley Gardens.”

“I like the area around Lower Forest and Highstanding Hill – it has got some fabulous trees hidden away in there. Some of the parts of the Windsor Forest – along the edge of the Park – are absolutely magnificent. If you want to go for something where you feel you could have been sat there for the last 1,000 years go to Bears Rails in the Deer Park. Phenomenal trees, beautiful landscape, red deer toddling through the mist. You cannot beat that. Then again in August, parts of Swinley Forest when the heather is flowering and you get this carpet of purple across the Forest floor. That can be quite something.

John Anderson

Windsor Great Park’s magnificent trees are beautifully reflected in Virginia Water.

“Our focus is on areas where there is potentially a similar climate to that which we are going to be experiencing in around 80 years’ time”

EVERETT

Richard Everett

MACMILLAN WIN BIG

Clubhouse event breaks records for Macmillan Cancer Care

PHOTOGRAPHS BY IMAGES OF POLO

Guards Polo Club’s annual coffee morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Care smashed all previous fundraising targets. The event raised a staggering £9,200, the highest sum ever raised for Macmillan at this relaxed, annual gathering, held as part of the charity’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning fundraiser.

Patrons, Players, Members and friends of the Club had been extraordinarily generous with auction donations and many more flocked to the Clubhouse to enjoy a cuppa, games and lots of cakes, including a stunning creation from Mosimann’s Nick Hebditch. Nick also judged our own version of Bake Off, judging a variety of delicious entries. The winning cake tins and fizz went to Sue Smith, mum of our Assistant Polo Manager Tara Smith, for her unctuous chocolate caramel cake.

Thanks to some impressive auction lots including tickets for evensong and a private tour of St George’s Chapel, a director’s tour of the Household Cavalry Museum, a Salmanazar (12 bottles) of Bollinger Champagne and dinners or lunches for two at PJs in London, Seasons in Windlesham and Don Beni’s in Berkshire – the Club was able to hit such an amazing sum. Major Jamie Hayward did a brilliant job as auctioneer, encouraging even the shyest of bidders to dig deep, while the Guards team, brilliantly supported by Sue Smith, delivered our best coffee morning event yet. n

To find out more about the incredible work of Macmillan go to macmillan.org.uk

HUGE THANKS TO

Artisan Property Services

Mindi Byrne

Champagne

Laurent-Perrier

Rob Clark

Clara’s Cocina

Clé de Peau Beauté

Devine Flowers

Don Beni Restaurants

Henley Tennis Club (Tom Scott)

Nick & Jane Hebditch

Household Cavalry Images of Polo Inkerman London

Dav Kudhail

La Martina Mary McKay

Merchandise Lab

Montagu & Amber Mossiman’s

Austin & Howard Mutti-Mewse

Nirvana Spa, Wokingham  Pack Walker Val Palmer

PJ’s Bar & Grill

Canon Martin Poll

Clive Reid

Saville Row Gin (Stewart Lee) Seasons Kitchen (Charlie & Graham Wooldridge)

Sue Smith

Soteria Chauffeurs TLA Worldwide (Paul Roberts) Waitrose

Michael

Michael Michaud Jewellery is renowned for its beauty and workmanship and is featured in the finest museums, galleries and speciality retailers internationally. Many collections are commissioned by leading museums such as The Victoria & Albert Museum, The Art Institute of Chicago, The National Gallery of Art and the Château de Versailles.

www.michael-michaud.com

Michaud Jewellery captures the beauty and exquisite detail of nature using soft patinas on bronze cast from plants, leaves and flowers.

Our Christmas Lunch event in December will be Tony Ramirez’s final formal engagement for us, concluding more than a decade as our Official Photographer. This role has seen him travel the world for the Club – Dubai, China, Brazil, Malta and Argentina – as well as covering more than 1,000 games at Smith’s Lawn, Flemish Farm, Coworth Park and our many private grounds.

Polo photography is a unique art; the game moves so quickly that capturing that key moment takes a keen eye and a deep understanding of the game. Tony is an expert at his craft so we asked him to curate his favourite images from his time at the Club. Not surprisingly, action is at the heart of this collection, on both grass and snow, but Tony has also included a memorable selection of behind-the-scenes shots, plus plenty of coveted winning moments and some fantastic reminders of a raft of Royal commissions too. It really has been a life behind the lens. n

FOCUS ON POLO

Tony Ramirez, the founder of Images of Polo, has spent more than 10 years as the Club’s official photographer

PHOTOGRAPHS BY IMAGES OF POLO

“Fantastic goal from Alessandro Bazzoni at the 2021 Talacrest Prince of Wales’s Championship Cup. I love this picture as it shows the agility and interaction of horse and player, plus the speed of the game.”

IMAGES

Clockwise from top left: “It was wonderful to be able to capture this tender moment between TRH The Prince and Princess of Wales at the 2022 Out-Sourcing Inc. Royal Charity Polo Cup; Brothers Facundo and Gonzalito Pieres paying great attention to a 2019 Cartier Queen’s Cup game; This atmospheric shot shows the dedication of umpire Jason Dixon in all weathers; I could not resist taking this picture of the Royal Box and the beautiful royal cars when HM The Queen attended the 2018 Eton Boys Tea Party; Always a difficult picture to take – Alfredo Cappella and Marek Kanigowski under a fiercely hot sun at the 2018 Gold Cup in Sotogrande.”

IMAGES

POLO

Above: “It is always great to be able to photograph the Household Cavalry Musical Ride.”

Below: “I never tire of taking pictures of the wonderful Castle Ground which, in my opinion, is the most beautiful and unique polo ground in the world.”

Left: “Flying ponies are my passion, particularly when they come in twos and ridden by two of the best players in the world, Adolfo Cambiaso and Hilario Ulloa.” Far left: “Guards Polo Club not only attracts the best polo players but also some standout VIPs and it was wonderful to capture this image of Ronan Keating and his son totally focused on the game.”

Clockwise from top: “Snow polo is something special to photograph but this display of amazing Azerbaijani horses at the 2019 St Moritz Snow Polo World Cup was spectacular; For once in front of the camera, with Club Chairman Brian Stein who has been a great supporter of Images of Polo over the years; Sometimes difficult to catch the right moment but Jeta Castagnola makes it easier; It is wonderful when you

get to capture the next generation at the start of their polo careers, young Lukin Monteverde is a great example of this; You can be assured of getting good shots at the Cartier Queen’s Cup but for me this is one of my favourites of young players Barto Castagnola and Juan Martin Zubia in total concentration; A great moment featuring Spencer McCarthy’s elegant groom getting ready for a change of horses.”

Left:

Far left: “I was so lucky to be able to photograph the first fireworks display at Guards Polo Club, during the 2021 Chairman’s Awards Dinner.”

Above: “The agility and control of the high-goal players, in this case Adolfo Cambiaso and Facundo Pieres, is always a pleasure to photograph.”

Left: “It has never been truer, behind a successful man is always a great woman. Thank you Olga for all you do.”

IMAGES

POLO

“One of Clive Reid’s favourite images, showing the link between man and his best friend.”

“Segundo Darritchon makes my life easy.”

CREATING A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD

White Horse Contractors is no stranger to creating sports fields so was the perfect partner to deliver our new grounds development plan. So how did rebuilding grounds six and eight compare with another recent White Horse project, the training grounds at Championship football team Queen's Park Rangers?

An aerial view of the new grounds at Smith's Lawn, taken in November 2022.

The team at White Horse Contractors has just successfully completed the rebuilding of fields six and eight at Guards Polo Club. This project began back in February 2022, only a couple of months after White Horse Contractors had begun another, high-profile sporting project, the new training grounds for the Championship football team Queen's Park Rangers in West London. So how does the development of these world-class sporting arenas contrast and compare?

Entering the site on “day one” of construction on either site always comes after a busy period of consultation, design and planning. This can vary anywhere between months and years depending on the site and client. The length in time until completion, either a phase completion or the project completion, will be individual to each location and is, typically, down to the size of the site, due to the amount of materials, machinery, and work that is involved.

The Smith’s Lawn location at Guards Polo Club lies across 130 acres, featuring 10 polo fields, two Royal Boxes, a Clubhouse, offices and three fixed grandstands. Meanwhile, QPR’s training ground comes in a lot smaller at 12.2 acres in size, with five pitches, goalkeeper training areas, training grids and a rehab area. The biggest difference of course is the size of the playing area. A professional football pitch averages at 7,140 square

Polo, due to the extreme action the pitch experiences, requires 10 times more aftercare than that of a football pitch

metres, while a professional polo field can be up to 60,000 square metres, meaning that one polo field can approximately accommodate nine full-sized football pitches!

The majority of work to complete a sports field goes on underground. Thousands of metres of drainage, pipework and irrigation need to be installed, plus an equal amount in tons in gravel, sand, pipes and rootzone. A drainage and irrigation system is installed under the playing level too.

Football pitches typically using a sprinkler system to water their pitches between use. There is no irrigation system powerful enough for even one pitch at Guards Polo Club due to its 60,000 square metre size. So irrigation is carried out manually all year, depending on the weather.

Football pitch construction, before seeding, can take just six to eight weeks, with another 12 weeks after the initial construction to seed, fertilise and grow the grass before the first players are allowed on. Due to the size difference between football and polo pitches, this “before-seeding” process is much longer for polo. As the polo fields need to be perfectly flat for the players and horses, more time is spent meticulously levelling the polo fields.

Once both pitches are complete and are being played on by boots or hooves, the maintenance required on each also differs. QPR’s training ground is used by the first team and academy teams six days a week for 10 months of the year, with each team alternating between their specific pitches to ensure ample recovery of the grounds. Each football pitch is designed to withstand 20 hours of use per week, which is why there are five pitches on site, each being used alternatively.

Our new polo fields have been constructed as match grounds, meaning that they withstand a lot more use than football pitches, who play their 90-minute matches within a stadium once per week. The polo season may be less than half the length of a football season, but within that time almost 600 polo matches are played. Of course the Club has enough grounds to rotate matches but that is still a lot of polo in a short space of time. Wet weather and plenty of heavy traffic from the hooves tearing at the turf, ensures additional maintenance is required to support the polo grounds during and after games, due to the compaction of the soil and the hours of use.

This difference in impact also means that

football and polo use different types of turf. Professional football clubs can use a hybrid mix of turf, 95% natural and 5% artificial fibres. Polo clubs (and racetracks) are unable to use the stitched pitch format due to the horses’ hooves needing to bite into the earth for grip. The more rigid and sturdy hybrid turf is not conducive to the heavy impact from horses and could cause accidents and injuries to both horses and riders. So natural soil sportsturf pitches are the correct option for polo.

Of course the sheer size of the polo field affects the build time, cost, and maintenance of the fields. Both the football and polo pitches are just as durable for their sports, and have the same lifespan, but demand hugely different maintenance needs. Polo, due to the extreme action the field experiences, requires 10 times more aftercare than that of a football pitch. Fortunately Guards Polo Club has a world-class team of groundstaff that take on that challenge every day regardless of the weather or season.

So White Horse Contractors’ work at Guards Polo Club is now complete. The beautifully flat lawns with newly germinated green swards of grass are now resting over the winter in readiness for the new season in April 2023. A fabulous addition to a worldfamous polo club. n

Levelling ground eight in the late summer.

As polo fields need to be perfectly flat for players and horses, more time is spent meticulously levelling a polo field

One polo field can approximately accommodate nine fullsized football pitches!

Both pitches are just as durable for their sports, and have the same lifespan as one another, but have hugely different maintenance needs

Clockwise from left: another aerial shot of the newly created Grounds Six and Eight at Smith's Lawn; an early stage of levelling Ground Eight; our Director of Polo Antony Fanshawe on the lush Ground Six in November 2022; levelling the football fields at Queen's Park Ranger's training grounds; the finished QPR grounds; work in progress at QPR.

MAESTRA PERFORMS AT WINDSOR

Polo ponies grab chance to win best in show at Royal Windsor

PHOTOGRAPHS BY IMAGES OF POLO

Fifteen polo ponies battled in mid-May to win at the worldfamous Royal Windsor Horse Show. Sponsored by Guards Polo Club, these polo pony showing classes are believed to be the only classes of their type in the UK. So just competing at the celebrated horse show, located in the stunning setting of the Home Park, is incredible, but heading home with some silverware is particularly memorable.

Someone who did just that is Green Gates’ patron Noor Khadra. His mare Petunia Maestra won the Polo Pony class and went on to be named overall Show Champion, receiving the Colonel Sir John Aird Championship Cup from Guards Polo Club Chairman Brian Stein. The mare was ridden in the show ring by six-goaler Cesar

Brian Stein presents Cesar Crespo with the Colonel Sir John Aird Championship Cup for Noor Khadra's Petunia Maestra.

Crespo, one of a handful of professional players taking part in the show for the first time.

Reserve Champion and the Windsor Polo Club of Australia Cup went to Machitos Yoko, part of an impressive string of ponies entered by Vikings’ patron Siri EvjemoNysveen. This chestnut mare was ridden by Jaime Roberts, who is no stranger to

Before the Championship was awarded, judge Antony Fanshawe selected four ponies to ride in the ring. This is a good way for the judges to see how the ponies perform with an unfamiliar rider.

Out prize to

owned and ridden by Jemima Wilson;

the RoR Championship to Siri Evjemo-Nysveen and Riba Roja;

with his own

Lucky; Tincho Merlos

a rosette

the polo pony classes at Windsor, having competed last year. Meanwhile Siri herself rode last year’s Show Champion Riba Roja, a standout, 10-year-old bay mare. Although the Championship went elsewhere this year, Siri did head home with the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Championship - the General Sir Rodney Moore Challenge Cup.

The eight-goal professional Agustin Merlos, known to all as Tincho, made his debut riding Simon Franc’s bay mare Pony Piggy. Tincho had bred this mare and so it was a nice touch that he could also present her to the judges, Antony Fanshawe, Lord Charles Beresford and Sarah Gracey. Another Merlos home-bred, Pony Lucky, was also competing. This chestnut mare was ridden by her owner,

Clockwise from far left: Ignacio Pieres with the striking grey Guri Araucaria; Sarah Gracey, presents the Best Turned

Purito,

Brian Stein presents

Simon Franc

Pony

receives

from Brian Stein for Simon Franc's Pony Piggy.

Simon Franc, the patron of the Lemonade Club Polo Team.

Before the Championship was awarded, judge Antony Fanshawe selected four ponies to ride in the ring. This is a good way for the judges to see how the ponies perform with an unfamiliar rider. Maestra, Machitos Yoko and Pony Lucky were joined by Guri Araucaria, another talented pony from the Vikings’ stable. This striking, grey mare was ridden by Ignacio Pieres. After putting all four ponies through their paces, Antony discussed each pony’s merits with his fellow judges before the winners were announced.

There was one further prize to be presented in the Frogmore Arena on this day. Sarah Gracey, owner of the Millwheel Tack Shop and GG Feeds, presented the Best Turned Out prize to the 15-year-old gelding Purito, owned and ridden by Jemima Wilson.

Purito’s win highlighted that this show is very much for amateurs as well as the professional players. Lieutenant Colonel

RESULTS

Section A – RoR Thoroughbred  (for the General Sir Rodney Moore Challenge Cup)

1st place: Riba Roja

2nd: Lingfield Lass

3rd: Plum Duff

Section B – Polo Pony (for HH The Maharajah of Jaipur Challenge Cup)

1st place: Maestra

2nd: Machitos Yoko

3rd: Pony Lucky

4th: Guri Araucaria

5th: Pony Piggy

6th: Cometa

Supreme Champion:  Maestra

Reserve Champion: Machitos Yoko

Best Turned Out: Purito

Tom Armitage, Commanding Officer of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, competed riding his wife Georgina’s 14-year-old mare Stiletto. Georgina had already participated herself in the RoR class with her mare Lingfield Lass, finishing second to Riba Roja. Tom Armitage’s interest further extended to Trooper Conor Beukes's performance on Champion, as this Household Cavalry soldier was riding his commanding officer’s chestnut gelding!

AFB patron, Clive Reid, was spotted on the sidelines, supporting Maryam Sherozia. She was competing with Clive’s bay gelding Cometa in the ring for the first time. Although Maryam has only recently swapped show jumping for polo, she delivered a strong performance to finish sixth. Other competitors included Nick Johnson and Alan Kent’s Runway Bay, Harold Hodges’ double entry of Plum Duff, third in the RoR, and Narnia, plus Nicola Davidson with her 20-year-old Argentine mare Lolita. n

Above: Jaime Roberts puts the Reserve Champion Machitos Yoko through her paces in the Frogmore Arena.

Top: Nick Johnson with his Runway Bay, whom he co-owns with Alan Kent.

Clockwise from right: Judges Antony Fanshawe and Lord Charles Beresford with Maryam Sherozia; Brian Stein with Georgina Armitage and Lingfield Lass, second in the RoR class; Antony Fanshawe puts a pony through

its paces; Lt Col Tom Armitage with his wife's Stiletto; Commentator Major Jamie Hayward checks a few facts with Harold Hodges; Nicola Davidson and Lolita competing in the Frogmore Arena; Trooper Conor Beukes and Champion.

CAMPO ARGENTINO DE POLO, BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

Known as the “Cathedral of Polo”, these impressive grounds, flanked by skyscrapers, are at the heart of this great Argentine city. Campo Argentino de Polo has been home to the world’s great tournament –the 40-goal Argentine Open – since 1928 and the modern history of the game is written on these fields. Almost the entire polo community can be found in Argentina’s capital in late November/ early December such is the importance of this one tournament. This year’s Argentine Open Final will be played on Friday 2 December 2022. www.aapolo.com

WINTER BENEFITS

Members of Guards Polo Club are not just confined to polo at Smith’s Lawn. Our impressive reciprocal agreement with some of the sport’s top – and at this time of year - warmest locations ensures that polo can be watched 12 months of the year. So check out our partnership clubs and watch some polo this winter on snow or grass

GUARDS POLO ACADEMY

Guards Polo Academy at Coworth Park offers a bespoke learning experience, unparalleled anywhere in Europe. The Guards Polo Academy, located in the glorious setting of Coworth Park, delivers a comprehensive range of lessons and training chukkas. For the more ambitious player, the Academy’s instructors, headed up by Ebe Sievwright, can create intensive polo courses, from a three-hour “Introduction to Polo” to an individually tailor-made full day. By way of introducing newcomers to our much-loved sport the Academy hosts corporate polo days or beginners’ masterclasses, offering a fun and adrenalin-fuelled, day for polo aficionados and novices alike. Great discounts for Club Members whatever your handicap! www.guardspoloacademy.com

AUCKLAND POLO CLUB, CLEVEDON, NEW ZEALAND

This club was one of the first to be created in New Zealand and it is home to the New Zealand Open (19 February 2023). Auckland Polo Club offers polo four times a week in its impressive location, perfectly set among the gum trees along the banks of the Wairoa River in Cleveland. Of course this Club’s location means that the biggest city in the North Island is not too far away, making this polo club the perfect location for a New Zealand polo vacation. www.aucklandpolo.co.nz

A true oasis of sporting excellence and style, created in the heart of Dubai. Ali Albwardy, patron of the Dubai high-goal team – winners of the Queen’s Cup some six times – and owner of this elegant club, ensures that a striking, equestrian theme runs through this boutique hotel, thanks to the perfect placement of stunning bronzes and eye-catching murals. If guests can tear themselves away from the Samana Spa, which aims to pamper both body and mind, the infinity pool or the impressive menus from the Rare restaurant, there are three full size polo fields and a stable of top-quality ponies. Guests can experience polo to match the location, regardless of their handicap. www.melia.com/en/hotels/united-arab-emirates/dubai/hoteldesert-palm-melia-collection

FIFTH CHUKKER, KADUNA CITY, NIGERIA

This may be one of the more modern clubs on this list – it was founded in 2001 – but this Nigerian polo and country club has firmly established itself as a home for great polo in a family-orientated atmosphere. With the season running from late October to late June there is plenty of warm winter sport to enjoy for Guards Polo Club members. Our partnership with this Club is further enhanced through our association with Access Bank. The Bank’s wonderful polo day at Smith’s Lawn made a welcome return to our fixtures list this season, again featuring players from Fifth Chukker and delivering the fabulous flavour of polo Nigerian style at Smith’s Lawn. www.fifthchukker.com

DESERT PALM, DUBAI

ST MORITZ, SWITZERLAND

Home to the spectacular, high-goal polo on snow – the Polo World Cup – St Moritz offers great sport – on grass and snow – in one of polo’s most breath-taking locations. Next year’s high-goal tournament takes place on 27-29 January 2023 and will deliver fast-paced polo in one of the sport’s most striking backdrops. St Moritz Polo Club was founded in the 1950s but the first polo field was actually laid out here in the Engadin Valley in 1899 thanks to a group of British cavalry officers who were playing polo as part of their military training. In the subsequent years several Playing Members of Guards Polo Club have experienced the thrill of playing their beloved sport on the vast frozen lake and it remains a popular winter polo destination for the global polo community. www.polostmoritz.com

RAJASTHAN, INDIA

Created in 1918, this club was originally known as Jaipur Polo Club. However the merger between Jaipur and Rajasthan States in 1957 resulted in a name change. The Rajasthan Polo Club is one of newest members of the Guards Polo Club’s reciprocal scheme, but it boasts an impressive alumnus. Members have included HH Maharajah Sawai Man Singh ll of Jaipur and Rao Raja Hanut Singh, whose Ratanada team won the first Royal Windsor Cup at Guards Polo Club in 1955. www.rajasthanpoloclub.co.in

LIFE AT LOVEDAY, AND HOW I WISH MY PARENTS COULD EXPERIENCE IT

Written by Laurence Geller CBE, Co-founder and CEO of Loveday

Ilost both my parents to dementia and have experienced firsthand how hard it is to watch the people who raised you live with the condition. Learning about dementia and other age-related concerns became a passion of mine, and I have dedicated much of my time to supporting innovation that will improve the lives of the elderly.

With my background in luxury hospitality, moving into residential care felt like an obvious step, and that’s how Loveday was born. My vision, however, was not to run a residential care facility - there are excellent care homes aplenty across the country. My goal was to create the world’s first private members club for those with care needs.

My experience taught me that healthcare is just one aspect of care. Caring for someone living with age-related conditions is equally about making them feel connected with the world by enriching their lives with exceptional experiences and maintaining comfortable routines that keep them looking forward to each new day.

My aim with Loveday is to provide all of this and more, which I am proud to say we have been doing at Loveday Chelsea Court Place since 2016, and Loveday Kensington from early 2022. Now, we’re opening Loveday Abbey Road, which comes with all the luxury décor and technology of our other residences, but also with our flagship sensory garden, designed to be a haven of calm in the heart of St John’s Wood. I could wax lyrical about ‘The Loveday Way’ and what makes life at Loveday so extraordinary, but it is easier with anecdotes.

A snapshot of life at Loveday

Each week Members participate in the Loveday Arts Club, guided by our talented artist in residence, Grace Holiday. This week we held an art exhibition at Loveday Chelsea Court Place, featuring botanical creations by our Members, which included beautiful poppy-themed drawings they made on Remembrance Day. Framed artworks were displayed across the residence, with

many now permanently gracing our walls.

We invited the Chelsea Pensioners to come view the exhibition and enjoy afternoon tea with our Members, complete with Michelin-star quality food prepared by our Head Chef Alex Morte. Alex is an award-winning Chef, who most recently was shortlisted for The National Care Awards’ ‘Care Chef of the Year’ for his work with us. Accolades are wonderful, of course, but what makes Alex so valuable to us and our Members is the care he takes to get to know those he cooks for. If Mabel wants a different curry every single day, he makes sure she gets it, and Alan’s favourite shepherd’s pie has made its way onto Loveday’s weekly menu.

Our care ratio of one carer for every two Members ensures that vital details, from their food preferences, to where they like their glasses placed on their bedside table and what music they like to listen to before they sleep are noticed, remembered, and then incorporated into their tailored care programme.

A week that started with an art exhibition ended with a private opera performance by artists from Opera Holland Park. Our partnership with the opera company ensures that each month we host private performances for our Members, many of whom love opera.

Luxury, backed by science Music features heavily in our programme for its therapeutic benefits, from reducing anxiety to triggering old memories. In fact, most Loveday activities are designed in conjunction with the University of West London’s Dementia Care Centre Innovation Lab. What you get as a result is a luxury experience and the very best hospitality, backed by the latest scientific research.

A week like this one is not an anomaly, but the norm at Loveday. Our aim isn’t to help our Members live, it’s to ensure they thrive. I have learnt a lot since I started Loveday, and this has all gone back into improving our offering. I know in my heart, that if I was able to give my parents what I now can give to many others through Loveday, I would have made their lives longer and happier.

If this article strikes a chord, I extend you an invitation to come take a tour, ask us any questions on caring for a loved one or attend one of our events to experience Life at Loveday first-hand.

Learnmoreatlovedayandco.comorcall0203 283 7609 for more. n www.lovedayandco.com

JAIPUR RIDING AND POLO CLUB, JAIPUR, INDIA

Home to polo – be it with ponies, camels or elephants – Jaipur Riding and Polo Club offers a thrilling polo experience. This Club was founded by one of India’s best players, Colonel Garcha, a former coach of the Indian national team. Today the Jaipur Riding and Polo Club offers top quality polo facilities and competitive matches in December. Guards Polo Club has an additional connection to this Club – and the wider region – as HH Padmanabah Singh, the Maharajah of Jaipur is a playing member at Smith’s Lawn. www.jaipurpolo.com

HELVETIA POLO CLUB, INDAITUBA, BRAZIL

The leading polo destination in the Sao Paulo region of Brazil can offer 45 immaculate polo grounds and a warm welcome in some breathtaking locations. So not surprisingly it was this club that Guards Polo Club turned to when creating its own Brazilian international event in 2014. With the amateur Brazilian players regularly playing off seven goals, the polo here is always impressive. Polo is played from March to October and guarantees great sport, but if you feel that your game needs a little boost, Helvetia also provides polo lessons at its own academy as well as other equestrian opportunities. www.helvetiapolo.com.br

SINGAPORE POLO CLUB, SINGAPORE

The historic Singapore Polo Club offers polo for almost 12 months of the year. One of the oldest sporting and social clubs in this city-state, the club was founded in 1886 by the officers of the King’s Own Regiment, the 1st Battalion. Not surprisingly with these illustrious credentials, Singapore Polo Club has a prestigious heritage and today continues to deliver

excellent polo and superb facilities. These include elegant club rooms so that you can stay in sumptous, tropical surroundings but still be only a short distance from the city centre. There is also a choice of dining options including the Coriander Leaf Restaurant, featuring plenty of delicious, Pan-Asian flavours www.singaporepoloclub.org

THAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN CLUB

This stunning polo club is located close to Pattaya, some 150kms from Bangkok. Owned by Guards Polo Club patron Harald Link, owner of the high-goal Thai Polo Team which won the British Open in 2021, and Mrs Nunthinee Tanner, the club offers excellent equestrian facilities whatever your equine passion. In fact the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club can take much of the credit in securing Thailand as a go-to destination for professional and amateur players who are seeking good sport and excellent hospitality in the winter months. In addition to three full sized polo fields, stabling and veterinary clinic, Thai Polo and Equestrian Club is also home to an extensive equestrian facility that features an international cross-country course that was used for the first Asia Eventing Championships. This club is also home to a La Martina Store. www.thai-polo-club.com

Images © Alice Gipps

OF POLO

La Martina Varsity Day

Centenary Trophy

IMAGES BY IMAGES

Clé de Peau Beauté Guards Ladies Charity Polo Tournament

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