Few things beat the excitement and high energy of a polo match or a horse show. But if this is your first time attending such an event, do you know how to behave and what to wear?
Maybe you are following a life-long love of horses and equine sports, have been invited to attend by a friend, or been enthralled by the photos in photographer Aline Coquelle’s new book, ‘Polo: The Nomadic Tribe’, which Maxim magazine describes as celebrating ‘the glory of the world’s most elite equine sport’.
We have a brief guide to horse show and polo etiquette here:
What to Expect
Spectators are typically seated in stadium seats located above and away from the ring, and it would be advised to take binoculars to watch as the horses and riders as they go through their paces.
You may find yourself seated on a picnic blanket on the sidelines as you watch the horses gallop past. A polo match can be like a casual, fun, outdoor summer party.
What to Wear
Spectators usually choose to wear riding pants, clean jeans, and collared shirts—quite a few will be wearing boots. Shoes or boots are suggested over heels and sandals, which could sink into the grass or allow a close encounter with horse poo during the divot stomp.
How to Behave
Remain seated, and clap politely, as horses and riders are concentrating on play, and do not need distractions. Mute your phone, and engage in polite enthusiasm.
The Art of the Divot Stomp
For the uninitiated, polo halftime activities are bizarre, as a mass of people take to the field, drinks in hand, as they chat and laugh while stomping divots back into place that has been ripped up by galloping horses, while riders and their steeds take a well-deserved break.
If you’ve been enthralled by a match, want to have a go and looking for polo lessons, then talk to us today.