Did Someone Say, Polo? –Rover reporting and photography by Tina K. VaLant
Polo is enjoyed by more than 50 million people in more than eighty countries. Palm Beach County is the Winter Polo Capital of the World. Get dressed to thrill (ladies, don’t forget your most fabulous hat).
Prepare for extreme tailgating, divot stomping, champagne, and the social scene. What more might you bring to enjoy a polo match? How about your well behaved, leashed dog? The dogs of polo seem to truly enjoy the festivities, from lavishly
decorated tailgate parties with luscious spreads to having their own place in the grandstand, and coming out to the field at half time. Horse people are usually dog aficionados, too. Polo is the sport of kings and sultans, emperors and shahs. Its origin
is unknown, presumably played by nomadic warriors, thousands of years ago, in preparation for war. England introduced the United States to “hockey on horseback,” more than a century ago. It’s a dangerous sport, as ponies reach speeds of up to 35 mph; the hard plastic ball up to 110 mph. It’s expensive. A string of polo ponies is needed, as they are ridden about four minutes at a time. Polo is beautiful to watch, between graceful mounts, colorful riders and fashion-forward spectators. Designer duds, fancy footwear, haute hats and bowties are common place at a polo match. The polo field is the largest of any sports field, measuring ten acres
Boxer (and prospective show dog) Jackson celebrated his one year birthday at polo. He resides in Miami with the Muntner family.
(more than nine football fields). There are side boards (no higher than eleven inches) along the length to keep the ball from rolling out of bounds. The pace is fast and played by some of the world's best athletes.
Ponies’ manes are shaved and tails are braided or wrapped to avoid becoming obstacles during play. Agile, spirited and confident, polo ponies seem to have an understanding of the game and a taste for competition. They merge with their riders, sharing trust and a unique bond. Teams of four go after the ball with wooden mallets, directing the ball through goal posts. There are six chukkers (periods) in an outdoor game, each lasting
All the way from South Hampton, New York, Golden Retriever Chayse takes a break from her service and therapy work to enjoy tailgating festivities.
seven minutes. After three chukkers, it’s halftime. Spectators are encouraged onto the field to stomp divots (beware of the steaming ones), partake in complimentary bubbly, ice cream bar, giveaways, and mingle. Polo season begins January 5, 2014, at the International Polo Grounds, in
Wellington, Florida–and your dog wants to go. (Please, no retractable leashes.)
www.InternationalPoloClub.com.
blinged out collar, and enjoyed the polo match with Ingrid Martin of Tamarac.
www.TheNewBarker.com
Silky Terrier Benji sported a
Kiara is a rescued Afghan Hound and quite a sight to behold.
Adoptable Roxy, a Chow mix found a furever home by hanging out near the Maseratis on display.
Winter ~ 2013 THE NEW BARKER 85
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