County Polo, a regular feature for novice players at Oakwood Park polo club is set to go up a gear this season.
Claire Tomlinson and Francis Matthews from their respective Gloucester and Sussex clubs, have been working together to produce a set of guidelines that describe the concept, and they are keen for more clubs to get involved.
Most clubs offer instruction and some offer instructional chukkas. The idea of County Polo – a separate entity to Country House Polo – is to create a safe environment for players under instruction (maximum handicap -1) to enjoy the thrill of inter club or sponsored team competition in a controlled environment, where they are not necessarily the worst player and constantly being told to ‘leave it!’
It is still played on a full size field, three on three, with an experienced umpire who communicates with the players throughout to help prevent infringements and help players learn the structure of the game.
The emphasis is on a fun, safe yet competitive environment, with no pressure from better professional players, and is set up to allow one to improve their skills at a slightly slower pace. The three on three format enables everyone to get more of the action and makes team play easier to understand.
Incoming members with a limited budget can compete on one horse, playing two chukkas and sharing a place with another player. There are no professional fees, but increased involvement for everyone.
