It’s time to forget about horse racing now the Spring Racing Carnival is over and done — and time to focus on one of the fastest growing sports in the world: Polo.
Polo is one of the oldest sports in the world, with the first recorded match being played 2000 years ago between the Persians and Turkomans. Although adopted by the British, they first encountered the game while establishing a British colony in India in the 1850’s. Polo was introduced to England in 1869, from where it spread throughout the western world.
More than 77 countries now play polo, and while the sport was traditionally played only by royalty, it has been picked up by a broader range of people in recent years. However, polo has been played in Australia for over 100 years, with the first game being held at Moore Park in 1874. Rather than being a favourite amongst the upper classes like in other countries, polo was taken up by farmers, and even immortalised in the Banjo Patterson poem “Geebung Polo Club.”
Polo is thought to be the fastest ball game in the world, with participants flinging a ball from mallet to mallet and then hopefully to the goal.
The Paspaley Polo in the City series kicks off at Centennial Park in Sydney next week, before travelling to Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide. Polo in the City is one of the largest polo series in the world.
No longer the reserve of royals and aristocracy, there are 20,000 social members who associate with Polo Australia, and close to 1000 registered players.
Not too keen on hitting a ball around while riding a horse? There is still plenty for you to do!
Guinot Pamper Salons
Sponsored by luxury French skincare brand, Guinot, the Polo in the City series is the perfect opportunity to be pampered to within an inch of your life. At each polo event, two Guinot salons will offer the ultimate indulgent experience. Choose from a complimentary leg, hand or shoulder massage by Guinot therapists. What’s more, you’ll receive a voucher for $50 off the facial of your choice. You’ll be treated like a queen, while watching the sport of kings!
Marquees
Keen for a little extravagance? Invest in a ticket to one of the marquees at Polo in the City, and prepare for ultimate relaxation-or fun- it’s up to you!
The Paspaley Marquee (invitation only) will see you sipping on Veuve Clicquot while indulging in delectable cuisine with the best view of all the happenings on the field. Exclusive player interviews and expert host commentary will see you in the thick of all the polo action!
Keen for a little bit more of a ‘casual’ atmosphere? Check out the Kirin Polo Lounge. Meet the star players and polo professionals in the Kirin beer garden, while chilling out to the tunes of a DJ. You’ll also go in the draw to win a Paspaley pearl pendant and chain, valued at $1,670.
Get pampered in the Veuve Clicquot marquee as you sip on some of the finest champagne, and take in the polo from your luxurious surrounds. Flaunt your favourite frock for Fashions on the Field, and nibble on the delectable food on offer. You know when it’s Veuve Clicquot, that it’s sure to be luxurious!
Sydney – Saturday 17 November 2012, Centennial Park
Brisbane – Saturday 24 November 2012, Doomben Racecourse
Melbourne – Saturday 1 December 2012, Albert Park
Perth – Saturday 8 December 2012, Langley Park
Adelaide – Friday 14 December 2012, Victoria Park
Tickets: ticketek.com.au or https://polointhecity.com
Image: Polo in the City
