The game was fast and close, with hundreds of spectators on the edge of their seats as India took the lead in the last chukka, 5-4, thanks to a field goal from Parras Shama. It was still anyone’s game but time was beginning to run out. With minutes left on the clock and the score at 7-6 in Britain’s favour, Valent sent through the ball to keep the trophy for his side, 8-6.
The cup was presented to a delighted Tariq Albwardy by his father, Ali Albwardy, with Torquil, 13th Duke of Argyll and chief of the Clan Campbell, who is worldwide ambassador for Royal Salute Whisky. Lucy Munro of Equestrio Arabia presented the blanket for the Best Playing Pony to Martin Valent and his pony Arezoo. Tom Urqhart the regular commentator at Desert Palm thanked Peter McCormack, the Events Director and James Reeves manager of Desert Palm Per Aquum.
Eric Benoist, the global marketing director for Chivas Brothers – makers of Royal Salute – said afterwards: ‘The latest edition of the Nations Cup delivered some fantastic polo on the field of play, and this was exemplified by the thrilling final. We are delighted to share this
prestigious tournament with our distinguished guests, and celebrate the Sport of Kings at Desert Palm.’ The Royal Salute World Polo Series, of which the Nations Cup is an integral part, covers polo-playing nations not only in the Middle East but in Europe, the Americas, Pacific and Asia. Following the presentations, guests enjoyed a champagne reception on the pool terrace at Desert Palm Per Aquum, hosted by the Duke of Argyll.
Earlier, Dubai defeated Sweden by a narrow 4-3 to capture the Stone of Destiny Cup, a title recalling the ancient coronation stone of the kings of Scotland. Seized by King Edward I in the middle ages, the stone was kept for centuries in London’s Westminster Abbey, being returned to Scotland during the premiership of John Major. It is believed, originally, to have been taken to Scotland by Irish colonists.
Leading British professional, and a world ambassador for the Royal Salute, Malcolm Borwick also spoke to guests about the sport and his extremely successful polo clinics, sharing his passion for the oldest record ball game in the world.
THE LONDON POLO CLUB
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