The Isle of Man will host its first fully competitive polo matches on February 14 and 15 when the Triskelion Polo Club play a British Army Reserves team. Spectators can see some top class, high speed action which tests the skills of both horse and rider.
Weather permitting, there will be two matches played on Ballaugh beach, the first starting at 12.45pm on Saturday February 14, and the second at 2.15pm the following day. Each match will comprise two seven-minute chukkas with a short break in between each half. In addition to watching the action, spectators will also have the opportunity to speak to players and Club coaches to find out more about playing polo. Organisers are hoping to welcome many spectators to watch polo for the first time and build even more interest in what is a rapidly growing sport on the Island. If the weather does cause a postponement of either match, announcements will be made before 11am on the day of the game on www.triskelionpolo.club/ and the Club’s Facebook page.
Triskelion Polo Club, which is based at Grenaby Mooar, Malew, was set up towards the end of last year and has already organised many ‘Learn To Play’ events for all ages, including special sessions for schools, and corporate events. Expert coaching is provided by experienced professionals who teach novices to ride the Club’s stable of polo ponies. All equipment is provided for those who need it, but coaching can also be given to those who have their own ponies. The Club is run by General Manager Frazer Houston and his brother Cameron who are both experienced polo players and all-round horsemen. Frazer, a former National Hunt jockey who rode winners for leading trainers including Sue and Harvey Smith, commented:
“This will be the first match on the Island sanctioned by the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) which is the governing body for polo in the UK, Ireland, Isle of Man and most other countries. In addition to being a great spectacle, it’s also an opportunity for everyone to find out more about playing polo. It’s much more accessible than most people think – we have already taught many complete novices, most of whom do not own their own ponies. Polo is open to all ages so we hope to see parents bringing their children along to watch too.”
The age range of those who have taken part in the Learn To Play sessions is from as young as seven-years-old up to adults aged 50+ who have no horse riding experience. In fact, apart from Cameron Houston who is a professional polo player and an HPA Accredited Coach, all the other Triskelion players selected for the Ballaugh matches are novices who will be taking part in their first fully competitive game. Frazer says this shows that it’s possible to pick up the sport quickly, no matter what age, and even without any previous riding experience. He adds:
“As with any sport to compete at a high level takes years of practice and training, but it’s possible for complete beginners to quickly attain a standard which allows them to enjoy the sport and play competitively at club level.”
For more information go to www.triskelionpolo.club/ – or email polo@triskelionpolo.club or phone 07624 272547.
Photo - Triskelion Polo Club will be playing two matches on Ballaugh beach on February 14 and 15.
