The Gaucho International Polo

THE OFFICIAL GUIDE 2011

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Welcome

Sandpolo Ltd and the Hurlingham Polo Association are delighted to welcome you to Gaucho International Polo at The O2 arena

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t is a great pleasure and very exciting for us to welcome you to the inaugural Gaucho International Polo event at the world’s most popular entertainment venue - London’s O2 arena. Polo, particularly arena polo, is a spectacular spectator sport, as well as being immensely enjoyable to play. It is a true meld of men and horse and, as we know, the nation loves horses. Britain’s cultural history was defined with the horse, and so too its military and sporting heritage, of which polo is an integral part. Not many people ride in the Grand National, but the nation watches it. So let it be with international arena polo!

You may be here watching polo for the very first time, in which case we hope you will marvel at the skill, power and agility of both players and horses. Hopefully, you will learn a lot about the sport and be close enough to the action to truly appreciate the game. Alternatively, you may be here as a regular player or supporter, in which case I am sure you will admire the standard of polo on show, as well as being grateful for watching the matches in relative comfort and being able to hear the commentator! You may be here to see polo for the first time or just to meet with friends, do some business or some shopping. Whatever your motives for coming, we hope you have an enjoyable and memorable polo experience. Notwithstanding the glamorous, cool, athletic face of polo, we would like you to spend a moment considering the hard work and dedication that is required for the players to

achieve this level of play, and the grooms who live for the well-being of the horses. Keeping our fourlegged friends fit and in peak condition through the winter is no mean feat.

Any event of this magnitude requires the cooperation and patience of several parties, and Gaucho International Polo is no different. A heartfelt thank you to AEG for being so supportive in bringing this adventurous project to the wonderful O2 arena, to our title sponsor Gaucho for being a true partner throughout, and to our other sponsors and supporters who have made polo at The O2 possible. Most of all, thank you to you, the fans, for supporting the Hurlingham Polo Association’s inaugural Arena Polo International at The O2. We hope you will join us again next year when it is hoped to field a team from America, chosen by the United States Polo Association.

The O2 is a world-class venue deserving of the most exciting sporting spectacles, of which this will definitely be one. Polo has come to the heart of London and today, the heart of London has come to polo.

Johnny Wheeler Director, Sandpolo Ltd Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers Chairman, Hurlingham Polo Association Mark Cann Event Director

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Features At The Helm

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Raising Their Game

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Clash Of The Titans

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Equine Excellence

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Dolce Vita

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Keep The Party Bubbling

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Pizzaz at the Polo

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It’s In Their Blood

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Team Argentina captain Nacho Figueras opens up Banking group EFG’s commitment to polo Preview of today’s main event, the Churchill Cup match between England and Argentina A sneak peek at the Camino Real Country Club An insight into Argentinean culture Popping the corks with Champagne house Pommery Celebrity match preview What goes in to breeding the perfect polo pony?

Player Profiles

EFG’s Team England Camino Real’s Team Argentina City AM’s Team Scotland Mantis Resorts’ Team South Africa

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In The Know

lifestyle

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Through the Grapevine

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Playing the Field

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Hot or Not?

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Retail Therapy

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Life Beautifully Arranged

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Going Beyond

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Glamorous Goodwood

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Wines of polo

Aura’s afterparty

The latest polo trends Gaucho International Polo’s Shopping village

RUNWILD M

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The breathtaking Vertu phone collection Introducing the latest luxury car marque to hit the UK, Infiniti

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Project Manager: Sam Biss Advertising Manager: Kate Oxbrow Editor: Rebecca Walters Senior Designer: Dalton Butler GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 6

© Gillian Hughes Photography

Sand Polo The HPA Gaucho International Polo Show Times The Essential Polo Calendar The History of Polo An A-Z of Polo

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Head in the Sand

The how to and who’s who of sand polo laid bare. Rebecca Walters explains the basics of polo’s latest and liveliest incarnation, and why it’s become a spectator sport which keeps the thrill-thirsty coming back for more

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and polo is a fast, frenetic and actionpacked version of the original. It involves a smaller pitch and fewer players – three as opposed to the usual four - with the two teams going head to head in an outdoor or indoor arena, battling furiously to get a small football into their opponents’ goal. The match is divided into 7½ minute periods, called ‘chukkas’, and there are usually four chukkas in a match.

The dimensions of a sand polo pitch are 300ft x 150ft, with 4ft high sideboards containing the action. These boards are used by the players to rebound the ball and change the direction of play, keeping both the spectators and opposing team on their toes. The smaller pitch makes for a much more thrilling and faster game, with the emphasis very much on skill rather than hitting power, and there is a widespread belief that sand polo makes for a better spectator sport because of the close proximity of the audience and constant change in direction of play.

As well as featuring a different size and surface of pitch, the players and ponies also have to make adjustments when entering the arena. Players require a different mallet, which is made of fibreglass rather than the traditional cane shaft, making it lightweight and more manoeuvrable.

No hour of life is lost that is spent in the saddle - Winston Churchill With sand being more forgiving than grass, the ponies are less laden in the arena and so don’t require any studs for stopping or extra leg protection, such as boots on top of their bandages, commonly used elsewhere.

Each summer, Sandbanks in Dorset is home to a breathtaking spectacle of arena polo prowess and skill. A highlight of the polo social calendar,

it also attracts party enthusiasts in large numbers, including the likes of Jodie Kidd and her brother, polo pro Jack Kidd, along with a host of others who enjoy the living it up in the hospitality tent almost as much as the equine action.

For those keen to try their hand at sand polo, Ascot Park Polo Club, Surrey is home to Europe’s largest all-weather polo arena, measuring 100m x 50m, and plays host to lessons and tournaments for all levels.

ESSENTIALS Player 1 This is the attacking player who is commonly the match’s highest goal scorer for the team. In sand polo, player 1 is always focusing on snatching opportunities to score and relies on the skill of player 3 to pass the ball to them with accuracy.

Player 2 This is the “middle man”; he is often scoring goals himself, but is also required to defend and take opposition out of the game to clear the way for attacking plays from teammates.

Player 3 This player is often the highest handicapped player on a team, meaning they have the best understanding of the rules and game play. Player 3 is a defensive player and from a hit out defines the direction of play towards goal.

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Guardians of the

Game

In every activity there are those who regulate the play. From rugby’s RFU to FIFA in football, governing bodies keep a steady hand on sport’s rudder. Polo is no different, and the HPA have been presiding over its affairs since the very first chukka…

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he Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) is the governing body for polo in the UK and Ireland. It issues the rules and regulations by which the game of polo must be played. The HPA made the first set of English grass polo rules way back in 1875, with arena rules following much later in 1991. The first ever match played at Hurlingham grounds was in 1874 and it became the national headquarters of polo. After 60 years of polo – encompassing the First World War – the grounds at Hurlingham were turned over for agricultural use. Then, following the outbreak of World War II, no polo was played again until 1952, when the HPA reclaimed the land and relaid the pitches.

The HPA, like most governing bodies, has a focus to promote public interest in the sport, as well as developing the sport from élite to grass roots levels.

One of the key ways in which the HPA supports the growth of the game is through its Instructor and Coach qualifications. These allow polo enthusiasts to coach players of abilities from 0–3 goals and 3+ goals respectively, and are crucial to polo’s continued development. They are also responsible for the organising of fixtures lists and the handicapping of anyone playing within its jurisdiction.

Polo’s governing The HPA is currently made up of: body provides • 55 outdoor clubs in the UK information on each • 11 outdoor clubs in Ireland registered player and • 28 arena clubs in the UK and Ireland information on rules • 6 associations in the UK and Ireland • 25 overseas clubs and associations and regulations to the general public through its website, as well as a variety of online communications and printed literature, including the sport’s official rule books. The HPA release an annual year book which contains clubs, their players and also future fixtures and tournaments. The arena handbook for 2010/2011 is available from any arena playing club, and rules are available to download on the website. Their website even offers help to those wishing to start up a club with information of the process that they must follow, affiliation fees and rules.

For those looking to learn more about the inner workings of what can be an intimidatingly complex sport, the HPA produce a quarterly publication called Hurlingham Polo Association Magazine. It includes features on who to watch, latest news and gossip from the circuit, event calendars and player profiles, and is required reading for any polo enthusiast, whether an experienced pro, budding amateur or avid fan.

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t n e v E S E M I T

SHOW

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s rea open a y t li a t i s osp el 1 open v le 2pm – H n o e ag arena etail Vill he main t a n i 3pm – R lo o ain aren oP m G e A h t e n v i Ha ence ss confer e r p ’ s r e ity match lay s P r a – v e m g p d 4 mbri y ford v Ca x O – ceremon g m frica n i 5p n e p South A na o v e r d a n n la i t a - Sco 6pm – M dors Cup a s s a b m A h 6.15pm – olo matc a p y t i r b Argentin Cele v – d n m la p g 5 7.4 p - En rchill Cu u h C – 8pm ing Prize giv ndig O2 9.30pm – party at i r e t f a a r Au 9.30pm –

*All times approx and subject to change. The organisers are unable to accept responsibility for any loss or inconvenience caused by unforseen changes to timing.

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Argentine team captain Nacho Figueras will lead his team into battle in the Churchill Cup at The O2 arena.

But what makes him tick? Rebecca Walters finds out

Helm

I Captain’s treasure Nacho with the Churchill Cup trophy he hopes to claim at Gaucho International Polo

gnacio (Nacho) Figueras is one of Argentine polo’s crown jewels. He was born and raised just outside Buenos Aires, and first picked up a polo mallet at the tender age of nine.

Although polo was more readily available to him as a child, becoming a professional player was no easy accomplishment. Nacho became a professional player by the age of 17 and in the same year went to France, a move which kick-started his polo career. His polo journey then took him to England the following year, before heading to Florida, where he has played every Easter since.

Now the face of Ralph Lauren’s fragrance campaigns, he fits in with the image of the brand perfectly. He is a well-respected player who does much for the sport, travelling all over the world playing in different tournaments. He has worked hard to launch tournaments and to increase public awareness of polo in new markets. He is now gracing London’s O2 arena, bringing his show-stopping play and dashing good looks to the capital for all to enjoy. We asked him a few questions about how he got involved with this project, family and his passion... polo!

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Gaucho International Polo is on people’s doorstep. It is making polo more accessible to a much wider audience.

What made you start playing Polo?

As a young boy in Argentina, polo was readily available to me. Like someone growing up in Hawaii might be more likely to surf, or someone growing up in the French Alps may be more likely to ski, I was able to play polo and had all of the elements to become a polo player. Polo was part of my life from a young age; it was put in front of me and I decided it was something I wanted to pursue.

countryside. People may open a newspaper and read about clubs like Cowdray – my favourite place to play – but they may not know the Gold Cup is held there, for example. Sometimes even if they do, the distance deters people from attending. This isn’t the case with Gaucho International Polo; it is close and on people’s doorstep in Central London. It is making polo more accessible to a much wider audience.

How did you become involved with this project?

I am usually in Palm Beach this time every year, but was approached by the organisers of this event and thought it was not one to miss. The O2 is the most successful venue in the world; some of the biggest names in rock, comedy and pop have performed here, so I was not going to give up the chance to follow in their footsteps. I am very excited about this very special project; it is such an iconic location and I’m sure it will be a performance not to be missed.

What do you think of arena polo as a spectator sport?

Arena polo for the untrained eye is far more exciting and easy to understand than grass polo.

This is because the rules and line of the ball are less complicated. The rules are easier to understand and the close proximity of the game allows people to get closer to the action and feel more a part of the game.

The game in the arena can become messy, but is a closer contact sport and more aggressive than grass polo.

You have done a lot to raise awareness for polo.

How will this event help?

The location of the arena and accessibility helps the event itsself, purely because many may hear about polo in England, but here it is based mainly in the

Do you prefer playing arena or grass polo?

Arena polo is different to grass polo, but it is much easier to understand for those who are having their first taste of the game. Someone who is part of the polo scene may see arena polo as a little messy, but

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 16

Veuve Clicquot Manhattan (top left) Nacho competes in the 2009 Veuve Clicquot Manhattan Polo Classic US Open Polo Championship (above) Nacho bears down on the ball during the 105th US Open Polo Championship in West Palm Beach, Florida

it’s a great introduction to the sport. Polo on grass is more fun because of the speed; you really see a horse come into its own in a grass polo match.

Once people are later exposed to grass polo, they will enjoy this more than arena.

Where can we look forward to seeing you in the 2011 season?

I am playing in Hong Kong, Dubai and a lot in the UK this season. I love playing here in the UK, especially at Cowdray. I am trying to open up the spectrum of events that I attend and matches I play in each year. I normally attend the Veuve Clicquot Palm Beach Polo Classic, which we do with Prince Harry. I will be in the Philippines later in the year playing in a competition there, which is running for the first time called the “Algeria Cup”. It’s a great opportunity for me to see new places – I have heard that seeing Asia by train is something not to be missed.

Are there any new projects you have planned in the future?

I am going to be involved with projects all over the globe this year – we are doing lots of new things.

I am playing in a tournament on a beach in Rio, Brazil. We also have another Veuve Clicquot grass polo tournament in LA planned, which we hope will have much the same effect that this polo in London will, attracting the masses to watch polo.

What are your biggest accomplishments outside of the arena?

My family are very important to me and travel with me wherever I go. I lead a very busy lifestyle with polo, but I will always make time for my wife Delfina and my two children, Hilario and Aurora.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 17

OUT OF THE SADDLE Nacho Figueras, Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump relax at the the 3rd annual Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic at Governor’s Island in New York City

Raising their

GAME

Polo, like nearly all modern sports, is reliant upon the hard work and support of corporate sponsors to sustain its growth and development.

EFG are one such company, so we decided to take a closer look at their involvement in the sport worldwide

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FG International is an international private banking group with a record of dynamic growth, courtesy of offering clients a service they expect and deserve. They have a strong commitment to supporting polo and, over the past few years, have been busy supporting the sport all around the world.

There is an EFG Bank team, which is entered into the Palm Beach Polo in Florida and the annual Outback 40 Goal Challenge for the season. EFG have also supported teams in Spain in the form of an official banking partnership with the International Polo Tournament at the Santa Maria Polo Club, Sotogrande for the last three years. In Sweden, they are the principal sponsor of Scandinavia’s most prestigious polo event, the EFG Bank Scandinavian Polo Open at Almare Stäket in Switzerland.

They also co-sponsor the JaegerLeCoultre Polo Masters at the Polo Club de Veytay, near Geneva, and were also

sponsors of the Swiss Team at the European Polo Championship 2010.

EFG’s commitment to polo is reflected in a number of other diverse events worldwide, and they are now proud to support The Gaucho International Polo at The O2. With hopes of an exciting event that will build on the growing popularity of polo and bring the excitement of the arena game to a wider audience, this event looks set to become a key fixture in the polo calendar for years to come.

EFG has a long-standing commitment to polo, and this approach represents the core values they exhibit throughout their business. They firmly believe wealth management is in no way a fairweather industry, and demonstrate this by offering clients a relationship with a professional strategy designed to stand the test of time. EFG are a truly distinctive organisation: a private bank unlike any other. Their involvements with polo are well received all over the world, and hopefully will help more people all united by a passion for polo.

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CoronAtion CUP VICTORY Adolfo Cambiaso leads the charge, as Argentina defeat England to claim the Coronation Cup

Clashof the

Titans As these two historic nations face off in the world’s most inconic arena, Rebecca Walters looks back at one of sport’s most fascinating rivalries

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aucho International Polo’s Churchill Cup represents the latest in a long line of sporting skrimishes between two of the world’s main polo powerhouses - England and Argentina. The 02 arena hosts a very special day in the English polo calendar, aiming to attract an incredibly diverse crowd.

From elite polo players and patrons to amateur enthusiasts, casual observers and families enjoying a day out, a unique cross-section of society will come together to witness a superb spectacle, pitting these two old rivals together in the high octane polo arena.

The ongoing competition and rivalry between Argentina and England dates back centuries. In terms of sporting contests, football, and more recently rugby, may grab the headlines, but in polo terms this clash is up there with the best of them. Who is better? We can’t say for sure until the hooter sounds and the victors emerge, but the quality of players and ponies on show will be beyond question. Argentina produce both to a very high standard and will no doubt be very hard to beat. England on the other hand have got the heritage and home advantage on their side, having been one of the first countries in the western world to embrace the sport, and of course with the match being played in their capital city.

The Hurlingham Polo Association, British polo’s governing body, has had much to do with the success of the sport and cementing its roots here in England, developing the rules shortly after the U.S.A. Although the arena rules were only developed in 1991 by The HPA, arena has taken off and become one of the most popular variations of polo since its beginning.

English settlers orginally took the game across the seas to South America, but a quick glance at the number of Argentines playing professionaly on the international polo circuit today shows how much polo has become an established part of Argentine way of life, culture and history.

Looking back at recent clashes between the two teams, England have to start this match as slight underdogs. This is not to say that England’s players are not of a high goal quality to be admired, but experience and recent form give the vistors an edge. It is universally acknowledged that the key to winning is a combination of the skills of man and beast, but equally important is temprament and how each team reacts to the occasion and performs on the field. A polo player, however talented or experienced, is prone to the occasional off day just like any other sportsman. England will go into this match quietly confident of turning the tide and

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displaying their true skills in the arena. If team members Chris Hyde, Tim Bown and Max Charlton perform to their best and fly the flag then they are cetrainly in with a shout of upsetting the odds and claiming glory. This will be the first time that either team will have played in The 02 arena, and every moment should prove to be a thrilling one.

Argentina have dominated games between the two in recent years, including the three recent Coronation Cups, part of the Cartier International events at Guards Polo Club, Surrey. There, the teams have regularly faced off in front of more than 20,000 spectators. In 1995 and 2000 Argentina beat England 14-8 and 10-9 respectively. The competition has however been getting closer and closer every time they meet. The most recent encounter between the two sides was at the 2009 Coronation Cup, with the visiting team emerging with a 12-5 win, a scoreline that did not do the on-field contest justice. That match saw the Argentinian household names of Adolfo Cambiaso and Facundo Pieres go up against formidable English brothers Luke and Mark Tomlinson on their home turf. It marked the 25th year of jeweller Cartiers’ sponsorship of the event, and the final was a fitting display of skill and committment from both sides. Captain on the day Luke Tomlinson has skippered the England team for seven years, but he has handed the reins to the indominatble Chris Hyde for this one off arena event. The Queen attends the finals day at the Cartier International Polo event every summer, and presents the winning team with the Coronation Cup. So far whenever the two teams have played against each other in the tournament, Her Royal Highness has been handing the cup to Argentina, but there is a growing feeling in polo circles that the tide is turning, and Team England’s time will soon be here.

And so it is against this backdrop that England have a chance to lay down and early marker for the season, win over any doubters who may still be sceptical about their tournament credentials. More importantly it is a chance to hear the home fans roar before sending them home happy, hoarse and very proud.

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Equestrian Excellence

Ever dreamt of being able to play polo on world class pitches whilst enjoying five-star accomodation and leisure facilities? Now, Camino Real is making that dream a reality...

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or anyone whose heart beats for polo, Argentina is the place that makes it race that little bit faster.

Now, with the launch of Camino Real Polo Country Club, polo enthusiasts have the opportunity to experience life in the heartland of this exciting sport. Camino Real is an exclusive polo and equestrian community, as well as a luxurious country club resort. It is situated within 770 acres of breathtaking scenery, just 20 miles from Ezeiza international airport and less than an hour from the vibrant capital city of Buenos Aires.

For those who would like to experience life in this wonderful countryside – home to some of the finest horses and grasslands in the world – Camino Real is developing three five-star boutique hotels.

They will offer the highest levels of luxury, with a golf driving range, swimming pools, saunas, and top bars and restaurants. Guests will also be able to experience the very essence of Argentinian life – an authentic asado: sharing a bottle of wine with fellow guests, while waiting for a perfect piece of Argentine beef from the barbecue.

Camino Real will also offer fantastic opportunities to buy or rent. Investors will be able to choose a property from our selection, or work with our architects to create a bespoke design for their perfect residence. All properties enjoy picturesque views of the pampas, use of Camino Real’s exclusive concierge service, 24-hour security

and access to the wide range of luxurious facilities.

These include six tennis courts, the Wellbeing spa and a host of bars and restaurants.

Camino Real will have three world-class polo fields, which will host major international and national polo fixtures throughout the year, but also be available to guests – imagine hosting your own tournament on the quality of turf usually reserved exclusively for high goal teams. There are also two top-quality practice pitches, on-site veterinary facilities and a blend of private communal stables with more than 200 liveries. The Camino Real Equestrian School can provide tuition for all ages and abilities, with bespoke programmes tailored to suit all players.

Camino Real Polo Country Club has been developed to give the international community of polo lovers access to the undisputed heartland of the sport. Whether you want to enjoy the social life and sporting quality of Argentine polo, with our concierge’s ability to secure the gold dust of tickets to Palermo, or provide a base for your children to learn equestrian skills in the cradle of polo that has produced a host of top players, Camino Real has something for you.

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Five star Camino Real will feature the finest combination of polo and leisure facilities anywhere in the world

POLO for HEROES Share our passion and food at the ultimate sporting event!

For more information visit:

www.poloforheroes.co.uk Saturday 23rd July 2011 St Albans Polo Club

dolcevita Argentina is considered by many to be the cultural capital of South America.

With its flamboyant fashions and vibrant nightlife – including, of course, their signature Argentine Tango dancing – there is much more to this diverse, cosmopolitan nation than many people realise

n afternoon asado and a glass of red, full-bodied Malbec with family and friends, followed by an exotic evening of tango dancing with that special someone.

With simple yet timeless pleasures such as these on offer, combined with favourable economic conditions, it is little wonder Argentinian tourism is booming. Despite experiencing a wave of new and cosmopolitan influences that such influxes inevitably bring, the Argentine people are, in their own unique style, staying true to their roots whilst remaining open-minded to new cultures.

The embodiment of this is Buenos Aires, a city which combines the sleeplessness of New York, the style of Paris, and is often referred to as the only European city south of the equator. Buenos Aires is a very developed city, but with its centre littered with parks, boutiques and beautifully preserved avenidas (avenues), it is obvious the Argentine

people have not forgotten their rural heritage.

Outside of the big cities, Argentina is reknowned for the pastures of the pampas, on which some of the world’s finest cattle roam, something which the indigenous peoples are rightly very proud of.

One of the quintessential Argentine country traditions is the asado. Asado is a type of alfresco dining, where friends and family gather at an open barbecue and enjoy freshly cooked meat and bread.

The term ‘asado’ also refers to the cooking method used at such occasions. They were first enjoyed by the gauchos, the Argentine cowboys, and have now become a celebratory event after polo matches or parties. The gauchos themselves are a symbol of freedom and represented a way of life for many people’s ancestors. They would ride the pampas moving betweeen estancias (or ranches), herding cattle or labouring for money, and were admired for their equestrian skills and training ability. Very few remain today, and those that still remain perform their skills only at country shows.

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PamPAS (above) A gaucho riding his horse on the plains of the pampas buenos aireS (above right) Puerto Madero neighbourhood at night

Polo in Argentina is a large part of the national culture The gauchos may be a dying breed, but the estancias where they made their names are still alive and well. These are large rural estates, which often farm cattle or sheep, and are another massive part of Argentinian culture and history. In Argentina there are still many operational estancias, many of which are owned by families and handed down through generations. However, the word ‘estancia’ means more than just a cattle or sheep ranch; it also describes an Argentine polo establishment.

Polo in Argentina is a large part of the national culture, and the estancias are used as breeding and training facilities for polo ponies. People who keep ponies often train them themselves, and go on to sell these horses to England, America and Australia, making them a vital component of the global polo industry.

Very much like their mediterranean cousins, the Argentinian people are rather partial to an afternoon siesta. In early afternoon when the scorching South American sun is at its hottest, finding a quiet spot in the shade is a popular pastime.

This is also

the perfect preparation for a hearty evening meal.

In Argentine culture, large meals and parties with a host of family and friends are all things that are embraced on a daily basis. People will have their siesta, wake up and prepare lavish evening meals, often not consumed until late in the evening. This means they often don’t hit the streets until after midnight, and party well into the morning. The nightlife in Buenos Aires is incredibly diverse, with a wide array of restaurants, bars and clubs littering the city. The Argentinians are also famous for their Argentine tango dance, which the recent “ballroom boom” has helped bring back into fashion with a bang. This passionate and vivacious dance was born on the streets of Buenos Aires, where people would express themselves through its sultry steps.

We in the UK are very fortunate that we don’t have to fly thousands of miles for a taste of authentic Argentina. Our very own Gaucho Grill restaurants have deftly captured the essence of this unique nation. Through their intimate knowledge of the country’s cuisine, selection of its finest wines and unique atmosphere, they’ll have you convinced you’re dining at an asado on the pampas. Book your table now to experience the essence of Argentina right on your doorstep.

For your very own authentic Argentine experience, book now on 020 7987 9494 or www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 25

KEEPING THe

Party

BUBBLING

Around the world, the word “Champagne” is synonymous with lavish celebrations, and polo is no exception. At Gaucho International Polo, the Reims-based Pommery house are laying on the obligatory bubbly

T

he House of Pommery is one of the most prestigious names in Champagne, and is synonymous with elegance, finesse, freshness and vivacity. Pommery & Greno was established in 1836, but it was Jeanne-Alexandrine Louise Pommery who took over the running of the business in 1858, following the unexpected death of her husband. She was able to make sure that the Pommery name and reputation became internationally recognised. Madame Pommery is credited with launching the first commercially successful ‘Brut’ Champagne; ‘Pommery Brut Nature 1874’, at a time when champagne was

keeping bottles of Pommery champagne at a steady 10ºC all year round, the cellars also function as an ongoing contemporary art exhibition space. The estate itself was also to become the very image of modernity and style. Today the extravagance of the Elizabethan neo-Gothic-style castle in the heart of the city of Reims attracts more than 100,000 visitors a year from all over the world.

The latest from the famed cellars is a new champagne called Pommery POP. With a mix of Pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier, POP gives great tastes and induces fun with each sip.

POP comes in a blue glass 20cl bottle and combines a fresh taste and funky design produced to conjure up memories of excitement on unforgettable nights.

Many spectators like to keep a glass in hand as they watch the thundering hooves of ponies speed past them. excessively sweetened with sugar. This was effectively the birth of the signature Pommery taste; clean and crisp with little dryness.

Today, the champagne is expertly crafted by their Chef de Cave, Thierry Gasco who is only the ninth cellar master to create Pommery champagne. The Pommery cellars are some of the most impressive in the region – a series of 120 ancient Roman chalk pits. The company purchased the limestone and chalk caves to allow Madame Pommery to store and age more than 20 million bottles in temperature controlled stores.

Quality of storage is vital, as Champagnes age they tend to lose their original fruity taste and begin to develop more nutty tones to them. As well as

No polo event is complete without the Champagne flowing throughout the day and at the after party. Many spectators like to keep a glass of Champagne in hand as they watch the thundering hooves of ponies speed past them. This year Pommery are the official Champagne of The Gaucho International Polo 2011. The Pommery brand is well known; from the same region as Veuve Clicquot, with a great history and unique, finely honed techniques, consumers are rarely disappointed.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 26

Pommery Brut Royal non vintage With a blend which emphasizes the Chardonnay grape, Brut Royal is made lively thanks to the flavours of fleshy fruit and just-ripe berries

Proud sponsors of Gaucho International Polo The private bank for polo. Also sponsors of : Veuve Clicquot Gold Cup EFG Bank Team, Palm Beach Season / 40 Goal Challenge Heritage Polo Cup, Sandhurst Cambridge University Polo EFG Bank Scandinavian Polo Open Desert Palm Nations Cup, Dubai

Photo: David Lominska

Practitioners of the craft of private banking In the UK: EFG Private Bank Limited

EFG Private Bank Limited, Leconfield House, Curzon Street, London W1J 5JB, T + 44 20 7491 9111. EFG Private Bank Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority and a member of the London Stock Exchange. Registered in England and Wales no. 2321802. Registered office as above.

A member of EFG International. www.efginternational.com

EFGIuk - Polo - 210 x 297mm + 3 mm bleed - full page colour - quadri - publication: O2 Arena Polo Programme (13.01.2011)

D N LA G EN

EFG’s

Team

England

that takes to As one of the leading polo-playing nations, any England team y will be no the field carries the expectation of a nation on its shoulders. Toda the home nation exception. These are the three lions who will be representing Gaucho International Polo’s Churchill Cup

1

Handicaps: Max Charlton - 5 Tim Brown - 6 Chris Hyde - 9 (Capt)

Max Charlton

This rising star is a precociously gifted player who has progressed through the club circuit, playing at all age groups. He has previously represented Team England at both the 2009 London Polo Championships and the 2010 Arena Gold Cup. He is a member at Guards, Cowdray and the Royal County of Berkshire clubs, where he can often be seen gracing the arena with his prodigious skills.

Team Captain

Fact: The British are credited with spreading polo worldwide in the late 19th century and the early 20th century

2

Tim Brown

Retaining a handicap of 6 in the arena, Tim Brown is a polo demon and a real force to be reckoned with. Winning in the arena National Club Championships for Equibuild alongside Jack Kidd and Paul Knights he has made his mark upon the arena-playing community. Playing regularly in the 8–12 goal section alongside brother and team-mate Max, Tim is also a member at The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club.

3

Chris Hyde

As well as being captain of the England arena team, Hyde – or ‘The Prof’, as he is also known – also skippers the Asprey Polo Team at various events around the world. He is renowned for his big hitting and accurate penalty taking, and has reached a nine goal handicap in arena polo, one of very few to do so.

As a member of the England squad, Hyde has a jawdropping array of achievements, including being in the winning team of the Arena Gold cup on no less than five occasions, winning the St Moritz Cartier World Cup Polo on snow twice, and winning the Barbados open twice.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 29

A R G EN TI N A

Camino Real’s

Team

ARGENTINA

polo players on the The Argentine people are known as arguably the most gifted arena. We give you planet. Today, three of their finest march into battle at The O2 the low-down on these fearless South American warriors

1

Oscar Mancini

car Mancini Proud Argentinian Os nd. He has gla En in es liv plays and icap of 4 nd ha or attained an outdo l player goa 6 a of lls ski the but has having to n itio in the arena. In add , eer car lo po l sfu ces a very suc to e tim d fin to he also manages ting par im k, bac ing eth give som ge at La his skills and knowled ndsor.

Wi in l oo sch lo Brava po surfaces, al usu Accustomed to un played y usl vio pre s ha ni Manci rld Wo lo Po in the St Moritz w. sno Cup on

2

Adolfo Casaba l may share th e same first na Cambiaso, bu me as t his play is on e of a kind. Ad from Richmon olfo is d in London, an d is polo manag the prestigious er at Ham Polo Club , which is the the London-b last of ased clubs. Ca sabal also capt London Polo Cl ained the ub team in the 2010 Internat Club series. D ional espite being ba sed in Englan loyalties as a pl d, his ayer in this he ad-to-head ba firmly with hi ttle lie s home nation, Argentina.

: Handicaps -6 Oscar Mancini -6 Adolfo Casabal s - 7 (Capt) Nacho Figuera

3

Nacho Figueras

Adolfo Casabal

Team Captain

Fact: The first formal polo match in Argentina took place in 1875 organised by British settler David Shennan

Nacho grew up on a small ranch outside Buenos Aires and, like many local young boys, dreamt of one day becoming a famous polo player. In the course of achieving that dream, he has played in many tournaments around the world, including Paris, Florida, New York and Buenos Aires, and has also had the honour of playing with Prince Harry at the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic. Figueras is a talented polo player who has his sights firmly set on becoming one of the best in the world.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 30

Proud sponsor of Team Argentina at the O2 International Polo Competition

CAMINO REAL POLO COUNTRY CLUB

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Through the

Grapevine

Argentina is a country steeped in wine-making tradition. Gaucho Restaurants’ Director of Wines, Phil Crozier, examines a rich and varied wine heritage nly exporting 25 per cent of the country’s wine, the Argentinians prefer to make it the way they know best and then enjoy the fruits of their labour themselves. Argentina’s wine roots date back to 1553, when a friar from Chile named Juan Cedron planted vines in the northern province of Santiago del Estero. Since the province of Mendoza was established in the same year, a steady stream of immigration brought winemakers and their pioneering spirit to Argentina.

Mendoza is now recognised as the main area of winemaking in Argentina, and is one of the largest areas of fine wine production in the world. It covers an area around the size of the UK and more than 70 per cent of the country’s entire production.

The wine regions from north to south cover more than 2,500 and all lie in the mountains of the Andes. The cooling influence for the vines lies in their altitude, since the climate is very continental.

Melting snow caps of the mountains distribute through irrigation channels direct to the vines.

Nights are cool and days are warm, which makes for the slow ripening of the grapes. The vines will sleep if the temperatures fall below 15 degrees, which increases concentration, maintains acidity and allows for a full maturation of tannins, resulting in soft but elegant wines.

The various waves of immigration, first from Spain, then mostly Italian, followed by the French in 1850, has resulted in a wide range of grape varieties being planted. The Spaniards brought

with them Torrontes, a Galician grape that thrives in the northern reaches of the Andes, and which has now become a truly Argentine variety.

Following hot on their heels were the Italians with their Bonarda, hailing from the Piedmonte region and which has become another shining jewel in Argentina’s wine-making crown. Barbera, Sangiovese and Sauvignon Verte represent the remaining Italian varieties that have flourished in Argentina’s conducive climes.

Last but by no means least came the French.

Chardonnay thrives in the higher, cooler Uco Valley of Mendoza, whilst Pinot Noir is gaining a reputation in the old vine region of the Rio Negro.

Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot proliferate all along the spine of the Andes, but are at their best in Mendoza. However, Malbec is king here, with all regions of Mendoza producing their own take on this wonderful grape.

Polo has a rich association with wine too. Familia Zuccardi, one of the great names of Argentine wine, has regularly sponsored teams who travel to the UK, notably the Sunset Polo at Ham. In addition, the Bodega del Fin del Mundo winery in Patagonia are avid polo supporters, and regularly sponsor international superstar, Adolfo Cambiaso.

For your very own authentic Argentine experience, book now on 020 7987 9494 or www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 33

Mendoza The vineyards of Mendoza framed by the Andes

PLAYING THE

FIELD

Once the turf has been trodden and the ponies put away, the grooms and players come out to play!

S

o the trophies have been fought for and won, the horses rubbed down and fed and the players showered and changed. The only thing left to do – the one thing that no polo day would be complete without – is head to the club or marquee for an evening of fun and frolics. Polo parties are renowned for being some of the best nights in the English summer calendar.

Anyone who is anyone will be at the afterparty, often hosted by a glamorous London nightclub.

Gaucho International Polo is no exception, and the extravagant afterparty will be hosted by Aura, the opulent Mayfair members club, who will be laying on the party to end all parties at The O2’s indigO2 arena.

The afterparty is the main event for many in the polo crowd, particularly at events such as the Cartier International Polo and the Gold Cup. Their lavish soirées have been to feature lavish entertainment – dance groups, gymnasts and acrobats have been some of the recent highlights. Those lucky enough to be invited can often find themselves rubbing shoulders with famous models, musicians and dignitaries who party long into the night. The guests at Cartier 2010, for example, included Cat Deely, Paloma Faith, Amber Le Bon and Katherine Jenkins, to name but a few.

Sponsor and partnership deals for the afterparty are big business, and getting the right brand on board can make or break an event. The Gold Cup has cleverly recruited Veuve Clicquot as their title sponsor, meaning there are Champagne tents dotted all around the grounds, to which people flock during half-time and into the evening.

At a typical polo event, buying a table offers a constant flow of alcoholic beverages, and the advantage of using them as a base for the night to relax with a drink in between all the dancing. This is a favourite pastime of many patrons, who love to party hard alongside the players, either toasting success or drowning sorrows. After all of the hard work from the grooms, ponies and players a big celebration is a perfect way for everyone to enjoy themselves, winners or losers.

Polo parties are renowned for being some of the best nights in the English summer calendar Aura’s afterparty will have all have all the key components of the finest polo parties, with flowing Champagne, mixers and spirits on every table, pulsating dance floor and the who’s who of the event getting into the groove. At many events two afterparties are usually held, one for the general public and one for players and grooms, and insiders know that the party to really be seen at (and the one that gets the most gossip in the morning) is the latter.

However, here at The O2, Aura have combined both for a deliciously decadent free-for-all.

Aura Address: 48–49 St James’s Street London, SW1A 1JT Bookings: Telephone: 020 7499 9999 Email: enquiries@auramayfair.com For Table Reservations and guest lists: Email: reservations@auramayfair.com

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 34

Drink fabulous Aura’s afterparty will have all have all the key components of the finest polo parties, with flowing Champagne, mixers and spirits on every table

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Pizazz at the Polo

Polo just wouldn’t be polo without a dash of celebrity glamour. At Gaucho International Polo, famous showbiz faces will be taking to the arena to raise money for charity. We put three of them under the microscope to find out what they’ve been up to...

Kenny Logan

Liz McClarnon

Rugby legend Kenny Logan won 70 caps for his beloved Scotland during his illustrious 13 year rugby career. Now retired, he is married to one of the most familiar faces on British television, Gabby Logan, and kept active today by their children; young twins Reuben and Lois. Despite all this nothing he has done as yet, not even parenthood, will have prepared him for the uniquely rigorous demands of a polo match. Kenny has been training at the Ascot Park Polo Club, a far cry from the studios in which he prepared for his appearance on Strictly Come Dancing in 2007. This time, though, round Kenny will need perfect his nimble moves on four legs instead of two.

Kenny is not a total beginner, however his mother being a renowned and experienced equestrian herself. His time on the wooden horse in practice saw barely a ball missed, where the professional sportsman’s hand–eye coordination was immediately obvious. It was then on to the real thing, and within a short time Kenny was cantering with consummate ease. Trainer Peter Grace commented, “Rarely do we see a newcomer to the sport take so easily to the saddle and hitting at the same time. His thirst for knowledge of the rules was so indicative of his background, and it will be a thrill to see him taking to the field at The 02 arena, giving as good as he gets. Good luck, Kenny”.

A former member of platinum-selling pop trio Atomic Kitten, Liz is no stranger to working in a team. Following her departure from the band, Liz embarked upon a solo career before turning her attention to television. She has featured in a wide variety of shows, including Never Mind The Buzzcocks, Celebrity Love Island and Celebrity Masterchef, before proving her mettle as a presenter on the BBC3 hit Hotter Than My Daughter.

Liz has recently caught the fitness bug, training relentlessly for her equine adventure, and has been at her physical peak whilst attending her polo lessons at Ascot Park. This rough and tumble sport requires each player to be in top condition, and Liz is determined to show what girl power can do in the man’s world of arena polo.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 36 22

Mike Bushell Renowned sports reporter Mike Bushell is best known for getting kitted up and trying out new sports. He often does so as a complete beginner, with the aim of inspiring the general public to try their hands at sports they wouldn’t ordinarily participate in. To date he has tried in excess of 120.

After a spell as a TV actor and brief tilt at rock stardom, Mike fell into journalism at a local newspaper in Winchester. After stints at other publications, he landed his first job in broadcasting at BBC Solent, and success quickly followed. He moved on to BBC South Today before joining the BBC News Channel and then gaining nationwide fame on BBC1’s Breakfast programme. Bushell is also a keen sportsman, enjoying football, cricket and long-distance running.

Four years ago, in the name of BBC duty, Mike attended Ascot Park to try his hand at polo. This he did with aplomb, and so he is back in the saddle to compete at Gaucho International Polo. He has also played bike polo in London and elephant polo in Nepal, so being back on a horse should be a walk in the park. According to Peter Grace: “Mike has achieved a huge amount in such a short time.

He has an eye for the ball and with his increased confidence in the saddle, he will be a force to be reckoned with out there in the arena – good luck and well done!”.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 37

Who’s having who for breakfast Check out tonight's action in tomorrow's paper

BUSINESS WITH PERSONALITY www.cityam.com

D N A TL O SC

CITY AM’s

Team

SCOTLAND

border is under Any Scottish representative team that ventures south of the battle-hardened pressure to perform, and this is no exception. Taking on the the faint-hearted South Africans, this Ambassadors Cup match will not be for Handicaps: Christopher Crawford 4 Howard Smith 6 Jamie Le Hardy 7 (Capt) Team Captain

1

2

Jamie Le Hardy

A familiar face on the pol o circuit for many years, Jamie Le Hardy is a member of Burningfo ld Polo club, Surrey. He is also a qua lified coach with an arena handicap of 7. Jamie has been playing polo sin ce he was 18 and has competed in 26 different countries. He recently played in the British Beach Polo Cham pionships in Sandbanks, Dorset. Als oa member at Cowdray, Le Hardy has played for top teams suc h as Cold Smoke and Burningfold.

Christopher Crawford

Club, A current member of Guards Polo ing for play been has ford Craw her stop Chri first he since ever s, more than fifteen year ly home. fami tish Scot his at et mall a up ed pick and, Engl , land Scot in Chris has played polo ntina and Arge pur, Lum a Kual , occo Mor ce, Fran himself, he New Zealand. When he isn’t playing his home at hes matc iring ump and ing is teach in the year later seen be also club, Guards. He can d Cup in Davi ie Arch ado Mey the in ing play nd.

June for BHC Polo at his home grou

Fact: There are three main clubs in Scotland: the Dundee and Perth Polo Club, the Edinburgh Polo Club, and the Border Reivers Polo Club.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 39

3

Howard Smith

A member of Guards, The Royal Coun ty of Berkshire Polo Club, Ascot Park and Ash Farm, Howard has played for man y years and has experience playing in a vast array of polo arenas. He took part in high goal polo in 2007 at Birmingham’s NEC Arena, and last played international polo in the 20 goal handicap arena at Hickstead against USA. Howard is an experienced and sturdy arena player and is a good player 2, as well as being immensely proud to repr esent this Scotland team.

A FR IC A TH SO U

Mantis Resorts’

Team

SOUTH AFRICA

Since British cavalry regiments introduced the game in the late 19th century, South Africa and its people have embraced the sport of polo. Now, three of the country’s finest exponents have come to London to show off their skills

1

Team Captai n

Gary Spilsbury

Playing alongside his brother Terence, Gary currently plays off a handicap of 4 goals on grass and 5 in the arena. This fiercely proud South African, known as ‘Sipho’ to those closest to him, plays regularly at club level for the Free State province. He has previously represented Team Oaklands, along with his brother Terence, and won the Bartholomai Trophy in July 2010.

Fact: There are about 38 clubs in South Africa and about 400 polo players

2

Terence Spilsbury

brilliant polo As well as being a a very successful is ce ren player, Te He supplies n. polo businessma rses and works ho ls sel , nt equipme ll as being we as as an instructor, ssional ofe pr al on ati an intern to play rs efe polo player. He pr lo, but is po ss gra in 3-4 position g at 2 in yin pla t in the driver’s sea ving Ha m. tea a ric Af h this Sout ational ern int s iou played in a prev nd, this gla En st ain ag test match y for this very is familiar territor al. du ivi gifted ind

3

Selby Williamson

An experienced South African pr ofessional, he ha a handicap of 7 s in arena polo an d also has his ow riding school – n The Selby William son Polo Academ – in Western Ca y pe. Selby also pl ayed alongside fellow team-mat e Terence in an in ternational test match at The Al l England Club, Hickstead. He is known for his ac curate goal scor ing ability and is an excellent ho rseman. He has a lot of experienc in playing abro e ad in destinatio ns including In Zimbabwe, Sout dia, h America and Australia. As we owning a polo fa ll as rm, he also play s for Jurassic Pa Polo Club and ho rk sts junior coachi ng clinics. Selby has represented South Africa be fore when he pl against Chile in ayed the 2006 BMW International Polo Series.

Handicaps: Gary Spilsbury - 5 Terence Spilsbury - 5 Selby Williamson - 7 (Capt)

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 40

It’s in

their Blood In recent years, Argentinian polo breeders have improved the quality of the breed dramatically with a careful balance of traditional methods and modern technologies.

Will these ‘tools’ help improve future breeding programmes in other countries?

C

ombine a skilful player, the latest equipment and first-class playing facilities, and you would still only be around halfway to polo glory. Without the perfect polo pony, all these other elements would be wasted. This is why so much time, effort and money is invested in the breeding of these unique animals, and hence why breeding itself has developed at an astonishing rate in recent years.

In the UK and Argentina in particular, this growth is due to intensive breeding programmes and innovations in the last decade. Pony breeders in Argentina and England all believe that matching the right mare with the right stallion is the key to sustaining the future quality of polo ponies.

Breeding quality of a mare is the most significant aspect of the process, and is why many believe that no more than 5 percent of them are worth breeding from. The majority of polo ponies in countries like New Zealand and England are thoroughbreds.

These are either taken from the track after a flat racing career as two-year-olds and retrained, or are a second or third generation offspring of an

ex-racer. Those that don’t come from the track are likely to have been brought over from Argentina and entered into an Embryo Transfer programme.

The native Argentinian Criollo horses have been used for polo for years for their endurance and hardy nature. In more recent years, they have been crossed with thoroughbreds, whose speed and conformation combine perfectly with the agility and calm head of the Criollo to produce the perfect polo-playing pony.

The breeding of the pony, however, is only the start of the long road to producing an animal of the highest calibre. According to recent studies, a mere 8.5 per cent of a horse’s performance comes from its genes, with 91.5 per cent coming from its training.

Those who train and bring them on as youngsters have specific skills perfected over many years, not

Starting with good genes and following with precise training methods ensures great results

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 42

Polo Pony credentials Height – Between 14.2 HH and 16.0HH Conformation – Long neck, short back, short strong legs and powerful hind quarters Colour – Traditionally variations of Bay (brown), but can be seen in all colours Temperament – docile, intelligent, eager to please and responsive Sex – majority of ponies on the circuit are mares because of their fiery attitude on the field, but stallions and geldings are also played Age – Play up to 20

to mention the patience of saints. Understanding the horse and having the ability to praise and punish at the right moment is essential for successful habituation. In Argentina these trainers are often referred to as ‘gauchos’. They were originally the cowboys of the pampas (grasslands), who led nomadic lifestyles, working when they pleased. The gauchos’ descendants, due to their great reputation with horses, are in high demand across the globe as grooms and trainers for pros and patrons.

While the owners have an affectionate but intermittent relationship with their horses, grooms are with the horse for a whole season and get to know each animal’s individual personality, and the loss of a horse affects both parties significantly. This strength of feeling was poingantly demonstrated in a recent tragedy in Palm Beach, Florida. The Lechuza Caracas team lost 21 horses hours before the US Open semi-final in 2009. Venezuelan patron Victor Vargas and his fellow team-mates were shocked when horses started collapsing after being unloaded from trailers. The post-mortem found an overdose of

a mineral in their feed, which had been mistakenly produced with the wrong amount of selenium. This incident also demonstrated in no uncertain terms just what a delicate science the care of polo ponies is.

Embryo Transfer

One pioneering new technique currently being used in the breeding of polo ponies is Embryo Transfer (ET). This process has revolutionised polo’s breeding industry, and involves transferring a fertilised embryo from the donor to a surrogate to carry the unborn foal. This is typically done within seven days of conception, and allows the donor – usually a high goal mare – to contiue with a successful career whilst securing future progeny. Whether born from a “recipient” mare or naturally by their own mother, the foal is identical. In polo, a good mare is unlikely to reproduce until she is retired, normally around the age of 17, because of competition and reproduction not complementing each other.

ET is prevalent throughout the world of polo, but England is currently years behind countries such as Argentina’s breeding strategy, with our first embryo transfer foal being born in 2003. In Argentina, the majority of ponies playing in high goal matches, such as the Argentine Open, are ET ponies. The reason for this disparity between nations is attitude. Some people in the UK are still a little wary of the idea, but many breeding specialists believe this will fade out as the technique becomes more established. New technologies are essential for the sustainability of any sport, and ET is just one of the ways of providing the polo industry with consistently good progeny for years to come.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 43

Horses nuzzling a mare and foal embrace each other in the field. Bonding between mare and foal is vital in the early development of the young animal’s behaviour.

HOT

Polo Belt

These rather colourful and often handmade rawhide belts are worn on the pitch by players, along with their polo whites. These belts are originally an Argentinean tradition, but have become a sought-after fashion accessory off the pitch as well.

HOT

Helmets

Patriotic helmets – like the one worn by Adolfo Cambiaso bearing the Argentinean flag – are the latest quintessential polo accessory. Available in a wide range of colours and designs, custom helmets make a real statement. Players also often wear patterned bandanas around their helmets to add colour to their ensemble.

Hot OR not?

Whether you’re a professional player or occasional partygoer, keeping up to date with the latest trends is essential for any attendee at a polo event. Rebecca Walters reviews this season’s must-haves and definite no-no’s both on and off the field

NOT

Goggles

Eye injuries to player or pony are extrememly rare in arena polo. These non-essential pieces of kit are expensive and gaudy items that make the overall aesthetics of the game less gladiatorial, more glamour editorial.

HOT Polished boots

Dirty boots and a badly presented pony are a faux pas in polo. They represent a sign of disrespect to an opponent and, in a sport such a polo, this a grave offence. A rider must have clean whites, boots and a well presented pony with its tail either taped up or done in an Argentine knot.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 44

HOT

Polo Whites

Worn on or off the field, these are always a hot accessory and look great with a coloured shirt and espadrilles in the summer.

Players must wear polo whites in a game, along with other kit essentials like boots, mallet, a kite-marked helmet and knee pads.

NOT

Black Boots

Hurlingham, Argentina, is the home of legendary boot maker Eduardo Fagliano. He says “Polo boots are always brown, never black, out of respect for the other players”.

This is because when polished, as they should always be, the polish can rub off onto an opponent’s polo whites. When this occurs, black polish leaves permanent stains and renders the whites unuseable for future matches.

NOT

Appealing

It is frowned upon to appeal for a foul during a match, referees and sideline judges being highly respected in the sport of polo. This is due to the great difficulty of making decisions, which may affect a team winning or losing, so their decision is final and it goes without saying they should not be questioned.

NOT

Face Guards

HOT

These are a good safety precaution in grass polo, but for arena they aren’t needed and often just obstruct the player’s vision. During an arena polo match, more injuries are likely to be caused by impaired lines of sight during a ride off, than from contact with the face.

Gap Year polo

The must-do for all budding polo players is to visit Argentina, Spain or New Zealand and experience a season. Students work on a ranch learning from pros, grooming and playing chukkas on some of the finest polo ponies twice a day. It’s hard work but well worth it, as the cultural experience and newly acquired playing skills and knowledge will undoubtedly improve a student’s game.

NOT Cowboy Boots

These boots are cool on the field, but off the field with polo whites are one to avoid.

The players wear them for practicality and the slip-on style, knee-high polo boot are good when you’re on a horse – but wear them at an event and you might be the one with the long face.

HOT

Pony Height

Traditionally, ponies were not meant to be over 14hh until 1895, when it was raised to 14.2hh. Today, the average height of a polo pony is 15hh-15.3hh; anything over this is likely to be too slow and not mobile enough for the demands of the arena.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 45

Retail THERAPY

Gaucho International Polo offers something for those who want to take a break from the equine action. Shop till you drop with the wide array of top brands and boutique stalls in our retail village 18 Degrees North

Estribos

Exquisite jewellery handcrafted from real flowers and leaves, dipped in 24k gold and fine silver

Handmade leather belts, bags, and hats from Argentina

Adrenalin Polo

Premium sportswear and kit

Liz Armstrong

Silver jewellery

High-quality sports clothing Equine artist specialising in polo

Les Ateliers Creatifs Luxury luggage

Bella Bazaar

Kukri Sports Portia India

Saddle Creek Clothing Bamboo cotton clothing

Scarlett Jewellery

Jewellery with equestrian theme

Beautiful cashmere wraps, finished with pretty crystal buttons in coordinated colours

Philip Sharpe Gallery

The Black Farmer

Valecuatro Polo

Rural clothing line and leather goods range

Polo clothing

Burgundy Bou

Hoodies, leather belts, dog collars and equestrian goods

Silk and velvet scarves, wraps, jackets

Antique maps

Weafs

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 46

Going

BEYOND

Without a diesel model in its line-up, buyers struggled to make sense of Infiniti, says Matthew Carter. But now that’s all changed

I

t must have been one of those classic Homer Simpson ‘Doh’ moments. The stage had been set for the launch of not just a new car, but of an entire new marque – Infiniti.

The luxury Japanese brand (it’s an arm of Nissan just as Lexus is to Toyota) had long been popular in America, but now was the time for the cars to be sold in Europe. And then global economic chaos set in.

You can imagine the conversation around the boardroom table. “So, remind me again, we have a range of luxury cars powered by powerful but thirsty V6 and V8 petrol engines. And the two biggest are both four-wheel drives.

“So that means our cars are expensive gasguzzlers that pump out huge amounts of CO2… and we major on Chelsea Tractors that attract unwanted attention from the antis.

“And we’re going to launch all this just as a recession hits. D’oh!”

Against that backdrop, Infiniti might have been

forgiven if it had quietly dropped its plans for Europe and retreated back the US. But to its credit it continued and even made a virtue out of the recession, deciding that lower-than-anticipated sales made the marque even more exclusive.

But Infiniti bosses also knew that their cars wouldn’t be out of tune with the market forever, though even they would admit the more socially acceptable diesel models couldn’t come quickly enough.

It’s been worth the wait. There are diesel versions of the gargantuan FX 4x4 and the forthcoming M saloon, but the pick of the crop is the EX30d. EX is what Infiniti calls a compact crossover, part 4x4, part luxury coupé.

But it’s the 30d bit that’s the most significant element here. It refers to the car’s 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, developed by the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and which goes some way to restoring the car’s environmental credentials. The combined mpg, for example, is 33mpg – rather better than the petrol’s

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 50

25mpg – while emissions improve to a better-butstill-not-brilliant 224g/km.

The figures are good enough, though, to allow you to drive the Infiniti with a clear-ish conscience, and that’s all that really matters. But the best news is that the new diesel engine is really rather good.

Infiniti’s 3.7-litre V6 petrol is a hard act to follow: it’s creamy smooth, wonderfully powerful and makes a superb noise. The diesel’s deep bass rumble on start-up instantly lets you know it’s an oil burner, but once on the move you’d be hard pushed to tell it’s not a petrol by listening alone.

Infiniti is all about refinement, and the fact that there’s a diesel under the bonnet just means the engineers have worked a little harder to ensure its air of sophistication remains. Better than that, though, the engine’s huge pulling power means that in everyday overtaking terms it’s probably quicker than the petrol. And you certainly won’t spend as much time at the filling station.

The super-smooth 7-speed automatic box must take some of the credit here. Changes are instant and imperceptible and there’s a Sport mode to sharpen things up still further.

Although it has four-wheel drive, in normal use the system has a rearward bias, meaning the EX feels quite sporting when being driven with verve.

But when the going gets slippery, the intelligent system reads the conditions and immediately starts to equalise the torque between the wheels, so that grip and drive are where they are needed.

In other respects, the diesel is identical to the petrol version. That means clever coupé-inspired looks (even if that means it’s not quite as spacious as you might think) and a seriously luxurious interior. High-quality leather is offset by a modern, black lacquer finish to the console, though classic maple wood is an option.

And the top-of-the-range GT Premium model is absolutely loaded with seriously clever kit. On top of the usual stuff – the climate control, the touch screen satnav, the 2GB Music Box where you can download your favourite CDs and not have to lug them about with you, and so on – the Premium has something called Lane Departure Prevention

(LDP). So you’re driving down the motorway and your mind – and the car – starts to wander. As you stray over the white line, the system gives an audible and visible warning as, indeed, do many other similar systems.

Where the Infiniti goes one better is that, should the driver ignore the warnings, it intercepts by gently applying the brakes to one side of the car to create a yaw effect that brings the car back into line.

To LDP you can add a series of other acronyms such as Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW). If you have a crash in the Infiniti, it’s clearly because you wanted one.

But perhaps the cleverest bit of standard kit is the Around View Monitor (yes, you’ve got it: AVM). Imagine a parking camera mounted not just on the tailgate, but also on the radiator grille and within both side door mirrors. Merge all four feeds together and you have a remarkable bird’seye image that appears to come from some 20 feet above the car. It allows inch-perfect parking everything, even in the tightest of gaps.

But perhaps the thing that lifts EX30d – any Infiniti indeed – above the rest is what they call the Infiniti Total Ownership Experience. The showrooms are a mix of boutique hotel and nightclub cool. Owners are treated like individuals – VIP individuals, that is – and Infiniti reckons the aftercare is second to none.

And now Londoners now have a chance to experience it first-hand with the recent opening of the capital’s Infiniti Centre in Piccadilly. Even Homer Simpson would be treated with due reverence.

IN BRIEF Height - Between 14.2 HH – 16.0HH Car – Infiniti EX30d GT Premium Price – £41,220 Engine – 2993cc turbocharged V6 diesel Power – 238 hp Drive – Four-wheel drive

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 49

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 50

Life beautifully ARRANGED Have you ever wished your phone was capable of acting as a bridge between your virtual existence and your day to day life, able to fulfil your every need at the touch of a button? Vertu phones are leading the way, closest of all to this feat of lifestyle arrangement engineering Vertu’s Signature

In 1998, a team of specialists set to work. They had been tasked by Frank Nuovo with the objective of creating a mobile phone on a par with luxury items from the world of watches and fine jewellery.

A unique ‘no boundaries’ working environment for the design and engineering teams ensured the creation of the original pieces that form the three distinct Vertu collections, Signature, Ascent and Constellation. The name Vertu means ‘a love of, or taste for, fine objects of art’ and as such, its stable of products are aesthetically sleek, smart and ultrastylish, manufactured with an astonishing attention to detail.

Standards Far Beyond Standard

In the small village of Church Crookham in Hampshire, every Vertu Signature and Constellation phone is hand-built from start to finish by one craftsman and since 2008, each of them signs a signature plate concealed within the battery compartment, testament to the Vertu hallmarks of design, passion and precision. It also means that if your phone is involved in an accident of any kind, this same craftsman will ensure it is returned to you in perfect condition.

Vertu is a clear market leader in terms of revolutionary techniques, materials and ideas. It was the first phone manufacturer to patent a new method for lighting a phone keypad, using light shining through laser holes, the first to feature a ceramic keypad and the first to deploy carbon fibre and aerospace grade aluminium in the creation of a full handset.

A Quest For Perfection

In 2002, Vertu launched Signature, the first luxury phone to feature a dedicated lifestyle assistance button: Vertu Concierge instantly connects the user to a team of experts with a global wealth of knowledge, experience and contacts.

The first Concierge request was made in Singapore: a bouquet of flowers was ordered and delivered on behalf of a client. Constellation Quest, Vertu’s first smart phone launched in October 2010, saw an enhanced Concierge offering including three different options of service, depending on the anticipated frequency of usage. This phone is for ‘true citizens of the world’ and comes with the Concierge, City Brief, Vertu Select and Vertu.Me features enhanced.

The Concierge Lifestyle

The Concierge button provides a direct link to Vertu Lifestyle Managers who can respond to any need, anytime, anywhere, tailoring luxury services and opportunities to specific demands. Particularly useful for the discerning, jet-setting traveller are the City Brief guides: these cover 140 key cities in eight languages and auto-load to your phone upon landing. Perry Oosting, President of Vertu, declares the Constellation Quest handset ‘as functional as it is beautiful’, a description that is wholly deserved of any Vertu product. _ london@davidmrobinson.co.uk 020 7538 2332.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 51

Glamorous

Goodwood

Beverley Byrne explores all that the Goodwood Hotel has to offer: from motor racing and flying planes to fine dining and indulging, there is something for everyone

W

ith a big birthday looming, I’m treating the speedmad man in my life to a suite at the Goodwood Hotel. He thinks he’s in for a night of celebratory indulgence: little does he suspect that this particular hotel is also the gateway to petrolhead heaven. Set in the heart of the Sussex Downs, Goodwood Hotel appears from the outside to be a pleasant 18th century coaching inn with glowing Georgian windows, promising a warm refuge for weary travellers. After circling the car park and salivating over a six-pack of sleek Alfa Romeos, a Ferrari or two plus the odd Porsche, we find that, behind the period façade, the rest of the hotel is unremittingly modern with a vast health club and spa.

The bright reception area is populated by young, accommodating staff, one of whom, promising a pot of tea, shows us to our suite. A sumptuous lounge leading to a separate bedroom is decorated in restrained dove greys, well-executed watercolours and sumptuous curtains. Alongside mellow antique furnishings and enormous flat screen televisions, contemporary touches, such as a circular Perspex dining table and chairs, add a distinctive flourish. From the exquisitely fine linen to the huge wet room shower and mammoth sarcophagus bath (there’s even a recessed television with floating remote control – ideal for watching soaps whilst we soak), the quality throughout is incomparable.

This suite is one of five designed by Cindy Leveson, a celebrated interior designer who is pioneering a programme of refurbishment throughout the hotel and the pleasure dome that is the Goodwood Estate.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 52

Circling Goodwood House, home to the Dukes of Richmond, the estate comprises the famous racecourse reputed to be the most beautiful in the world, an historic airfield and racing circuit, and two outstanding golf courses. It also holds all manner of sporting events and celebrations of Britain’s past and present, including the Festival of Speed, Glorious Goodwood and Vintage Goodwood.

Since Goodwood has become synonymous with sybaritic pleasures connected with speed and style, its sporting past is naturally celebrated throughout the hotel. Over cocktails in the clubby atmosphere of the Richmond Arms Bar, we examine a fine collection of photographs featuring those motor racing heroes of the l950s and ‘60s who competed here. Until l966, the gruelling Goodwood nine-hour endurance races were held at the racing circuit that embraces the airfield built for the RAF during World War II. Later, as we dine in the Richmond Arms Restaurant, choosing from a menu featuring local organic produce sourced largely from the estate’s Home Farm, we notice an imposing modern mosaic featuring an iconic E-Type Jaguar gracing the courtyard outside.

This modern artistic interpretation of an old classic seems to encapsulate everything Goodwood has to offer. As guests at the hotel, we are also eligible to dine at The Kennels, a private members’ clubhouse situated on the estate. Originally built for the hounds of the third Duke of Richmond, this splendid building overlooking Goodwood House is, in effect, the ‘Golf Club’. Successfully combining contemporary art and furnishings with Georgian architecture, the Kennels represents the very antithesis of a stuffy clubhouse. Goodwood golfers are not required to adhere to a dress code and instead of the ubiquitous ‘golf buggy,’ they swan round in jaunty, specially commissioned half-timbered vehicles featuring chintzy cushions and a built-in wicker champagne cooler.

The man responsible for introducing these retro buggies – and the rest of Goodwood’s innovative reanimation – is Lord March.

The son of the current Duke of Richmond, when he took over the 12,000 acre estate in the early ‘90s he was determined to bring motor racing back to Goodwood. Gradually events that celebrate a passion for speed, inherited from his grandfather, Freddy March, have become an established part of the social calendar. It was his grandfather, the 9th Duke, a renowned amateur racer and aircraft engineer, who helped the war effort by donating land to establish the airfield at Goodwood. Flight training has continued here for more than 70 years, and anyone with a passion for flying can take to the skies over the ravishing Sussex countryside.

What birthday boy is not expecting is a flight experience in one of the Flying Schools’ five brand new state-of-the-art Cessna 172s Skyhawk aircraft. I’d originally intended to surprise him with a thrash round the track where his motorsport heroes had raced. But, as Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton and chums have taken it over for the day, it’s closed to the public. Still, my partner is over the moon when he realises he’ll be taking off on Goodwood airfield’s grassy runway, alongside an instructor, and circling over the glorious Sussex countryside.

I’m no Amy Johnson, so while he’s achieving the ambition of a lifetime, I head back to the hotel to indulge in a spot of cosseting and culture. A wallow in the health club and a relaxing massage in the Waterbeach Spa are followed by a tour of Goodwood House. The early Dukes of Richmond chose this country property to showcase their art collection, which includes paintings by Van Dyck, Lely, Stubbs and a pair of exquisite Canalettos. It seems the family has always valued excellence, and it obviously remains the yardstick by which the entire Goodwood Estate is still measured.

Goodwood Hotel is more, much more than a supremely luxurious place to stay. Whatever your interests, be it motor racing, horse racing, flying, golf or simply being pampered, the hotel lies at the heart of it all. By simply booking in, we’ve effectively become members of the most exclusive clubs in the country, and that’s what makes Goodwood so glorious. Just ask birthday boy – he’s still on cloud nine.

For more information on Goodwood Hotel and the Goodwood experiences, visit www.goodwood.co.uk or call 01243 775537. Flight experiences in the Cessna Skyhawks start at £119 per person.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 53

Sitting pretty (left) Goodwood Hotel’s sumptuous lounge is decorated in restrained dove greys sky high (below) A Cessna 172s Skyhawk takes to the skies above the cliffs of Dover

se ou th ng en ini e p ma On re Built on the historic Lovell’s Wharf site and designed to maximise light and magnificent views along the river, Lovell’s offers a collection of bright, spacious one, two and three bedroom apartments and penthouses with extensive terraces, all finished to an exceptionally high standard and ready to move into now.

Penthouse £835,000*

A development by

Photograph taken from Lovell’s at 6.30am

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Call now to book an appointment to view the show apartments 020 8090 0276 www.liveatlovells.com * Price correct at time of going to print

the essential POLO

CALENDAR The places to see and be seen in the next 12 months. A selection of the most prestigious events in the polo calendar, where rubbing shoulders with royals isn’t a rare occurrence

Arena Gold Cup Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club, Windsor (8–16 February 2011)

The planet’s best arena polo players come together to contest the Arena Gold Cup at The Berkshire. The winners of the 2010 trophy were Cold Smoke, who left runners-up Ocho Rios trailing in their wake, storming to a 17–15 victory. This high goal arena tournament is one of the highlights of the winter season and shows off a level of skill which up-andcoming players aspire to attain.

Arena Gold Cup 2010 – Cold Smoke (17) vs Ocho Rios (15)

Queen’s Cup Guards, Surrey (17 MAY to 12 2011)

Perhaps the most famous polo club of them all plays host to the Harcourt Developments Queen’s Cup, which only last year celebrated its 50th anniversary. The Queen attends each final and presents the patron of the winning team with the majestic trophy. The tournament kicks off the high goal season in style, with up to 22 goal play by some of the most celebrated names in polo. Last year’s final between Les Lions 2 and Dubai was a thrilling climax to a wonderful tournament, and 2011 looks set to be every bit as breathtaking.

Queen’s Cup Final 2010 – Les Lions 2 (10) vs Dubai (12)

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Polo in the Park Hurlingham Park, London (June 3, 4 & 5 2011)

With each team representing a capital of a famous polo–playing country and a revised set of rules, this event aims to open the sport up to a traditionally non-polo audience. The 2010 event was enjoyed by all who attended, with plenty on offer to do and see.

Situated in London’s Hurlingham Park, one of polo’s original battle grounds, and with Veuve Clicquot organising the official afterparty, the inaugural Polo in the Park was a huge success. The ‘Nikki Beach’ theme was very popular, and 2011 is sure to be a polo social event not to miss.

Polo in the Park 2010 winners – Paris

Veuve Clicquot Gold Cup Cowdray Park, West Sussex (21 JUNE to 17 July 2011)

On the day of the final, the Gold Cup at Cowdray can attract in excess of 15,000 spectators. They flood the grounds and champagne bars, in their best ensemble for the high goal social event. The 20 teams are a veritable who’s who of polo, and boast names like Adolfo Cambiaso and England’s rising young star, Charlie Hanbury. Last year’s winners were Dubai, who edged out a hotly contested final Venezuelan patron Victor Vargas’ Lechuza Caracas.

Gold Cup Final 2010 – Lechuza Caracas (12) vs Dubai (14)

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 56

British Beach Polo Championships Sandbanks, Poole (8 & 9 July 2011)

Sun, sea and sand are abundant during this action-packed weekend of polo and parties.

Volleyball exhibitions, camel races and a pony racing a 4x4 means there really is somethings for everyone at this unique event. Watching the world’s best polo players play on the beaches of Poole in beautiful weather with champagne flowing has proven to be an intoxicating mix, attracting bigger and bigger crowds year on year.

Warwickshire Cup Cirencester Park, Gloucestershire (20 JULY to 8 August 2011)

Based in the stunning Cotswolds countryside, this club boasts seven polo grounds and plays host to many polo matches, but none quite as steeped in tradition as this one. The Warwickshire Cup is one of the oldest cup tournaments and one which is truly historic, as is its afterparty hosted by Relish of Cirencester. The club has a great member history with Princes William and Harry Windsor, members of the famous Vestey family and polo legend Gerald Balding having graced its grounds.

Warwickshire Cup Final 2010 – Emlor/CRL (9) vs Salkeld (7)

Cartier International Day Guards, Surrey (24 July 2011)

What is there left to say about the Cartier International?

Arguably the biggest social event in the polo calendar.

Glitz and glamour, socialites and celebrities are virtually omnipresent, and those lucky enough to get their hands on an invite into a hospitality box often end up side by side with a royal highness or two. The afterparty is hosted by legendary London nightspot Chinawhite, and is always a spectacle in itself. The polo is a high goal masterpiece with invitation-only teams. Last year’s final saw New Zealand take on England, with the hosts emerging victorious after a truly titanic battle.

Coronation Cup Final 2010 – England (9) vs New Zealand (7)

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Argentine Open Palermo, Buenos Aires (20 NOV to 11 Dec 2011)

Attracting the world’s finest polo players to one single tournament is no mean feat, but the Argentine Open manages to do just that. The Argentinians are renowned for their polo-playing ability, and this event showcases their outstanding natural ability like no other. Spectators are left in awe of how each shot is precisely played to the stick of a team-mate. With ponies reaching speeds of up to 45mph, this high-octane contest is the must-see for any polo aficionado. Big guns, Adolfo Cambiaso and Facundo Pieres, facing off on opposing teams made for a breathtaking final last time out. Expect 2011 to be no less spectacular.

Argentine Open Final 2010 – La Dolfina (13) vs Ellerstina (14)

St Moritz Snow Polo World Cup Egadine Valley, St Moritz (26–29 Jan 2012)

The 2011 St Moritz Snow Polo Word Cup took place in January of this year and celebrated its 27th anniversary. Every year a frozen lake in the Swiss Alps plays host to 15,000 spectators and four teams from Germany, France, Great Britain and Switzerland. Spectators who brave the elements are able to enjoy the breathtaking views which provide a stunning backdrop to the equally impressive talent of both ponies and players.

St Moritz Final 2011 – Great Britain (4) vs France (5)

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Ascot Park Polo Club Windlesham Road, Chobham, Surrey, GU24 8SN Official Training Centre Partner ~ The Gaucho International Polo ~ The O2 Arena, London

CLUB POLO

TRAINING CENTRE

Five playing fields & 50m x 100m Arena Full Livery facilities in 120 acres  Full fixture list of Tournaments & Challenges  Mid-week Chukkas at 7pm  Home of International Women’s Polo Association  Horse Hire available for all Club levels  Only 40mins from Central London

Largest training centre in the world, Non-riders welcome  All equipment provided  Junior academy - from 5 years old  Schools & University discounts  Gift Vouchers for all occasions  Instructional Chukkas for beginners  Academy chukkas for progressing players

CORPORATE DAYS & EVENTS Unique & memorable ‘Learn to Play’ events Team building, Client entertaining & networking  Staff incentives & inter-department competition  Non-riders speciality / any level of fitness  Groups from 10 - 200  Individually tailored itineraries to suit budgets  Sponsorship packages available

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Polo Office Tel: 01276 858545 ~ email: 02@polo.co.uk Quote POLO2 for 20% spring discount on GIFT vouchers and corporate event bookings

Discover Polo for yourself...The ‘learn to play’ experience

Learn the Rules of the game ….

Learn to hit a polo ball….

Learn to ride a polo pony ….

Then Compete in an Instructional Chukka!.....  Ideal for GIFT VOUCHERS, any occasion  A thrilling yet affordable experience  A great all-round introduction to the sport

To WIN a 2 hour Discover Polo Lesson plus 2 Instructional Chukkas*

Text POLO2 to 66622

A unique and memorable experience, non-riders a speciality. All equipment provided. *The Prize Drawer Terms and Conditions: One text entry per mobile user. Entries must be received by midnight of 6th March 2011. You will be charged at your standard network rate for one SMS message. Non-UK mobile numbers will need to text to +447950080920 and will be charged one international SMS by your mobile operator. SMS responder services provided by www.miikiigroup.com. Text entrants must be 16 years and over. The competition winner will be selected at random from the full list of text entries and notified by text on 7th March 2011. The competition winner will receive a Voucher for a 2hr Discover Polo lesson plus two instructional chukkas, RRP £165, valid until 30th March 2012 and provided by/redeemable at Ascot Park Polo Club, Windlesham Road, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8SN. Voucher users must be aged between 16 and 60 years, subject to weight restrictions (18 stone max). Full T&Cs available prior to entry, on request to 02@polo.co.uk

The

History of Polo

Since its inception thousands of years ago, polo’s popularity has spread throughout the globe, transcending geographical, political and racial barriers. Rebecca Walters retraces this epic journey

P

olo is thought to have originated in China and Persia more than 2,000 years ago, and the first recorded game took place in 600 BC between the Turkomans and the Persians. Polo was at first thought to have been devised as a training game for cavalry units, usually the King’s Guard.

To the warlike tribesmen (who played it with as many as 100 to a side!). It was a miniature battle.

Over the years, the exciting game of polo became an Iranian national sport played by the nobility, and Persian literature and art offers a wealth of polo references. Ferdowsi (the famed Iranian poethistorian) gives a number of accounts of royal polo tournaments in his 9th century epic, Shahnameh (the Epic of Kings) including an international match between Turanian force and the followers of Siyâvash (a legendary Iranian prince) and King Sapoor II, who learned to play polo at just seven years old.

POPULARITY GROWS

Polo was passed from Persia to other parts of Asia including the Indian subcontinent and China, gaining the nickname ‘The Sport of Kings’. In the 1850s, British tea planters discovered the game in Manipur on the Burmese border with India.

They founded the world’s first polo club at Silchar, west of Manipur, and other clubs followed.

Today, the oldest in the world is the Calcutta Polo Club, which was founded in 1862 by two British soldiers, Captain Robert Stewart and Major General Joe Shearer.

Malta followed in 1868, because soldiers and naval officers stopped off there on their way home from India. In 1869, Edward ‘Chicken’ Hartopp, of the 10th Hussars, read an account of the game in The Field magazine while stationed at Aldershot and planned a game on a hastily rolled Hounslow Heath, where ten rules were also hastily assembled.

But it was John Watson (1856–1908) of the 13th Hussars, who formulated the first real rules of the

POLO: THE TIMELINE 600BC

The first recorded game took place between the Turkomans and Persians (the Turkomans won)

600BC

300 AD

4th century AD King Sapoor II of Persia learned to play polo, aged seven

1850s

7th century AD Polo spreads from China to Japan

600 AD

900 AD

British tea planters discovered the game in Manipur (Munipoor) on the Burmese border with India

16th century AD A polo ground (300 yards long and with goal posts 8 yards apart) was built at Ispahan, then the capital of Persia, by Shah Abbas the Great

A Pol

1870

1862 The first polo club in the world was formed by British tea planters at Silchar, west of Manipur.

Calcutta Polo Club, the oldest existing polo club, was founded

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T

1868 Malta Polo Club was founded due mainly to army and naval officers stopping off there on their way home from India

1850

1500 AD

Ladakh festival Tourists and adventurers throng the Polo ground at the Ladakh festival in Leh, India.

game in India in the 1870s. He later formed the celebrated Freebooters team, who won the first Westchester Cup match in 1886.

POLO IN THE UK

The 10th Hussars at Aldershot, Hants, introduced polo to England in 1834 and the British are generally credited with spreading polo worldwide during the late 19th century and the early 20th century.

Military officers imported the game to Britain in the 1860s, and the establishment of polo clubs throughout England and Western Europe followed after the formal codification of rules. The game’s

Lt. Col. Thomas St. Quintin, 10th Hussars, introduced the game to Australia, and James Gordon Bennett Jr introduced it to America after seeing the game at

Polo was established at Hurlingham

1869

Edward ‘Chicken’ Hartopp, 10th Hussars, read an account of the game and organised the first game in England – known then as “hockey on horseback”

1910 Handicaps were introduced in England and India

Hurlingham

1875

The first official match in Argentina took place on 3 September, where the game had been taken by English and Irish engineers and ranchers

2011 1930

1910

1890 1874

governing body in the UK is the Hurlingham Polo Association, which drew up the first set of formal British rules in 1874. The arena rules in force here at Gaucho International Polo are a far cry from those used by the ancient Persians, but the action will be just as intense. There is no doubt that spectators will enjoy this exhilarating event every bit as much as their predecessors.

Leh Palace Towering over the Himalayan city of Leh is the former residence of Ladakh’s royal family, Leh Palace.

Built in 16th century.

1876

1872 The polo club at Monmouthshire was founded by Capt. Francis ‘Tip’ Herbert (1845 – 1922) near Abergavenny and the All Ireland Polo Club was also founded in 1872

by Horace Rochfort

1870

Polo gained the nickname ‘The Sport of Kings’

1895 The height for polo ponies was raised from 14 hands to 14.2

Today, polo is played in 80 countries worldwide. It was an Olympic sport from 1900 to 1939 and has now been recognised again by the International Olympic Committee.

1919 Height restriction on polo ponies was abolished

, www.hpa-polo.co.uk *Source: Hurlingham Polo Association

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A-Z APPEALING – Claims by players

for a foul, generally expressed by the raising of sticks above their heads. Overdemonstrative appealing is considered very bad form.

BACK – A player is permtitted to ride of

an opponent to spoil his shot ortake him away from the play. The angle of contact must be no more than 45o. The faster the pony travels, the smaller the angle must be. A good bump can shake discs and dentures loose!

of Polo Lingo

FIELD – A full-size polo field is 300

yards by 160 yards, which in arena is reduced to 300 x 150 feet. The goalposts, which collapse on severe impact, are set eight yards apart.

JUDGES – Goal judges are positioned

GOAL – Any time the ball fully

KNOCK-IN – Should a team hit the ball

crosses, at any height, the line between the goalposts, it is a goal, regardless of who knocks it through, including the pony.

over the opponent’s backline during an attack, the defending team resumes the game with a free hit from the backline where the ball went over. It is equivalent to a goal kick in football.

CHUKKA – There are four chukkas

(periods) in a typical arena match, each lasting seven and a half minutes, plus up to 30 seconds of overtime. Chukka comes from the Indian word for a circle or round.

DIVOTS – Turf kicked up by ponies’

HANDICAP – All players are rated

on a scale of -2 to 10 (the higher the better). Although the word ‘goal’ is often used after the rating, it bears no relation to the number of goals a player scores in a match, but to his overall playing ability.

hooves.

ENDS – The back lines of the polo

pitch. Teams change ends, i.e. switch the halves they defend, each time a goal is scored in order to equalise wind and turf conditions.

behind each goal to signal when a goal has been scored. Hard hats are worn by judges for protection.

HIGH GOAL – Teams with a total handicap from 17 to 24 goals. It is the highest level of official tournament polo played in the United Kingdom.

LINE OF THE BALL – ‘Crossing the line’ is the most frequent foul in polo. The line of the ball, namely the imaginary line along which the ball travels, represents a right of way for the player following nearest that line.

There are strict rules governing opponents’ entry in to the right of way in the interest of safety.

HOOK – The hook, or hooking, is

when a player uses their mallet to block or interfere with an opponent’s swing by hooking the mallet of the other player with their own mallet. A player may only hook if is he/she is on the side where the swing is being made, or directly in front or behind an opponent.

HPA – THE HURLINGHAM POLO ASSOCIATION

This is the governing body of the game in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Its governing officials are called stewards.

They should not be confused with club stewards, who guide and advise members while at the club.

INTERMEDIATE – Teams with a total handicap of 8–12 goals.

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 63

MALLET/STICK – The shaft is made from bamboo cane or graphite composite and the head from a hard wood. The wide face of the stick head is used to strike the ball and not the ends, as in croquet. Polo sticks range in length according, principally, to the height of the pony played, and extend from 48 to 54 inches.

LOW GOAL – Teams with a total handicap of 4–8 goals.

MEDIUM GOAL – Teams with a total handicap of 12–15 goals.

NECKSHOT – A ball which is hit under

RIDE-OFF – Two riders may make

contact and push each other off the line to prevent the other from striking the ball. It is primarily intended for the ponies to do the pushing, but a player is allowed to use his body, but not his elbows.

the pony’s neck.

OUT-OF-BOUNDS – When a ball goes

over the sideboards, it is considered outof-bounds. The umpire throws the ball in between the two teams lined up at the point at which it left the field of play. It is equivalent to a throw-in in football.

OFFSIDE – The right-hand side of the

pony. There is no offside rule for players in the game of polo.

PATRON – A financially unchallenged amateur player who pays to put a team together, which is usually made up of at least two professionals and is normally named after the patron’s house, company or whimsy, e.g. Cannon Fodder.

RINGER – A player or pony who performs well above expectation.

SAFETY – Also known as a Penalty 6,

a safety is awarded when a defending player hits the ball over his own backline. The free shot is taken 60 yards out from the backline, opposite the point at which the ball went over. It is equivalent to a corner in soccer, and no defender can be nearer than 30 yards from the ball when it is played.

SIDEBOARD – These four foot in

hight vertical boards run along the sidelines, surrounding the action to keep spectators safe. Players may hit the ball off the sideboards when passing or shooting.

PENALTY – A free hit is awarded when

a foul is committed. The hit is taken from a set distance, dependent on the severity of the offence. Penalties and distance are as follows: Penalty 1: Automatic goal Penalty 2: From 30 yards to an

open goal Penalty 3: From 40 yards to an

open goal Penalty 4: From 60 yards to a

defended goal Penalty 5: From anywhere on

the ground Penalty 5B: From the centre of

the ground programme.

TAILSHOT – Hitting the ball behind

and under the pony’s rump.

TAKE HIM OUT – Not an invitation,

but an exhortation to a team-mate to ride off an opponent to take him away from the play.

THIRD MAN – The referee sitting at

the sidelines who will arbitrate if the two mounted umpires on the field are unable to agree a foul.

XTRA TIME – In the event of a tied

when a foul is committed, an accident occurs or at his discretion. A player may call time-out if he has broken a key piece of tack or is injured. Timeouts are not permitted for changing ponies or for replacing a broken stick, although a player may do this at any time during open play.

score at the end of the final chukka, there will be a five-minute break to allow the players to catch their breath and change to a fresh pony before beginning a sudden death chukka.

The first team to score wins. In extra time, the goal area is usually widened by moving the goalposts an extra eight yards apart.

TREADING IN – The replacement, at

YOUR LINE – Words often heard

half-time, of divots of turf. This is the duty of the spectators.

shouted by players to a team-mate indicating that he has, rather than an opponent, the principal right of way to the ball.

TIME-OUT – Called by an umpire

SCOREBOARD – The scoreboard,

as in any two-sided game, keeps the score during the match. It also helps spectators keep track of chukkas.

UMPIRES – Two mounted umpires (one for each side of the field)

VIP – The team patron.

WELLINGTONS – Rubber boots ideal for treading in the divots during wet weather!

GAUCHO INTERNATIONAL POLO | 64

ZONE (SAFETY) – The area around

the pitch that is out of bounds for spectators during play.

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15/02/2011 22:46

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