As an activity that has never claimed to be a sport for the masses, polo might seem remote from many young people and consequently limit the interest of boys and girls in taking polo lessons. But it might be about to get a lot more attention if stories about one celebrity are true.
There will be no lack of youngsters who know who Gemma Owen is, having seen her in the TV show Love Island, and rumours are rife that she is romantically linked with top polo player Tommy Severn.
Given that the stories have arisen in the Sun newspaper, they may be taken with a pinch of salt, but given her high profile and her own love for horses as an equestrian competitor, even the suggestion that the rumours may be true could spark a greater interest in all things equine for some youngsters.
Gemma Owen’s interest in horses should come as no surprise. Her Dad Michael made his name as a footballer, but nurtured his own close interest in racing, which has clearly rubbed off on his daughter. So as her celebrity life is sure to go on making headlines, her connections with equine sports will never be far from the conversation.
Tommy Severn has links to Prince William and the royals are certainly doing their bit to keep polo in the headlines, as the future monarch is often seen playing. And while he may not be getting on so well with brother Harry these days, a love of polo is something both brothers have.
William’s most recent appearance was at the Guards Polo Cup in Windsor in early July, when he played in support of various charities.
The royal connection will help keep polo in the headlines, but if Love Island fans start finding out rather more about the sport than they previously knew, there may be some followers of Gemma Owen discovering a whole new sporting world.