Starting polo young

Starting Polo young, is not as uncommon as it might sounds. Polo is a sport that can be enjoyed by all ages, whether it is on horseback or as a spectator. In fact the Oldest player is over 82 years and from Barbados. He played in a game at the Apes Hill Polo Club in Barbados in May 2015.

Lately we have had some youngsters come for regular lessons and even a birthday party treat. The wonderful thing about children, is that most of them are prepared to just try something and not worry about whether it might not be possible. Today we had some children experiencing their first time on a horse, desperate to go faster. They weren’t worried about control or falling off, they were quite happy to just enjoy the moment.

Our regular children have progressed quickly and are enjoying a little mini chukkas at the end of their stick and ball sessions. It is rather satisfying to watch them progress from bashing the sand with their mallets, to actually driving the ball forwards and even being able to take it away from an opponent.

Unlike other countries, especially the UK an USA, we do not have a the groups dedicated to youth polo, but we are hoping that eventually enough will join so we can form children’s chukkas. It is important to encourage young people to play as it gives them a chance to build their skills and produce great players.