Polo is known as one of the world’s oldest team sports, played on horseback it involves four players per team with each player having a key position and specific tactics. In this blog we take a closer look at some of the rules and details of this prestigious and historic sport.
Rules of the game:
Polo has a clear set of strict rules which make the game possible. Points are scored in polo by driving the ball between the opposing teams goal posts. Once a team scores both teams then swaps ends, this is to even out any advantage due to the ground difference and weather factors. Did you know all players must only use their right hand when hitting the ball? Tough luck to all you lefties out there!
Polo players typically have one to three horses per game, changing ponies every three to four minutes and at an elite level, it is common practice to have up to eight ponies for one player per game. This is to ensure horses can respond to the high speed (reaching speeds up to 35 mph), agility and intensity that the game requires. Polo is split into four to six chukkas depending on the game, each chukka consisting of seven minutes allowing for the high tempo to be kept.
What is a chukka I hear you ask… A chukka is a period of play.
A horn is also sounded at the end of each chukka to signalise the end of play.
Despite the official traditional format being played on horseback, polo has been played in many formats including Elephant polo, camel polo, beach polo and a huge range of other forms - each created as unique as the other! Oh, and all horses in polo are referred to as ponies no matter their size - just to add to the confusion!
The details of the game:
There are four main shots played in polo...
The cut shot - where a player hits the ball to the right whilst riding forward
A Neck shot - this is when the player hits the ball under the horse’s neck
Open backhand – this is when a defensive shot is played that goes away from the horse
A tail backhand - this is also another defensive shot played between the tail of the horse
All of these shots require extreme precision and skill at the best of times, let along whilst staying in control and riding a horse at the same time.
Did you know Prince William and Prince Harry are both avid polo players? If you answered yes, what about Hollywood stars Sylvester Stallone and Tommy Lee Jones?
Polo is an exciting sport which is recognised by all but not always fully understood. We hope we have given you a little more insight into this fast paced and exciting sport.
Interested in watching the polo in the heart of London, and with all-inclusive hospitality? Find out more about Polo in the Park HERE.