Often referred to as the “Sport of Kings,” polo is a centuries-old equestrian game that combines the thrill of horsemanship with the precision of ball control.
At the heart of the sport sits the polo horses, exceptional equine athletes bred for their speed, agility and stamina. In this blog post, we take a trip into yesteryear to look into the captivating history of polo horses, from their humble origins to their significance in today’s game.
Origins Of Polo As A Sport
Although many believe polo is a homegrown invention created by the aristocrats of colonial Britain, this perception is actually wide of the mark. In fact, the origins of polo can be traced back over 2,000 years to ancient Persia (modern-day Iran), where it was played as a training exercise for cavalry units.
The game quickly spread throughout Central Asia and to the Indian subcontinent, eventually finding its way to the British Isles during the colonial era – probably why so many believe the British invented it around this time.
Early Polo Horses
Polo horses have a rich lineage, with various breeds contributing to the development of the animals you see today.
In the early days of polo being played in the UK, local breeds in the regions the game was played were used. However, later on these horses were adapted for the game’s fast-paced nature, where speed and agility were crucial.
Introducing The Thoroughbred
Thoroughbred horses, commonly seen on the racetrack, are known for their remarkable speed and endurance. As polo evolved and became more organised in the 19th century, Thoroughbreds were crossed with local breeds and the polo horse was created.
Many believe that Thoroughbreds or Thoroughbred crosses make the best polo horses and these are the ones typically used by most high-end polo players.
Polo Ponies vs. Horses: A Misconception
Despite the term “pony” often being used to describe polo horses, these aren’t actually ponies, indeed they’re horses.
Pony is a historical reference to the use of smaller horse breeds in the sport’s early days. Today, polo horses are typically 15 to 16 hands high, which is larger than even the tallest breed of pony.
Breed Variations
As polo horses have developed over the years, several horse breeds have left their mark. One such breed is the Argentine Thoroughbred, often referred to as the “Argentine Polo Pony,” which is highly regarded for its exceptional qualities on the polo field, demonstrating speed, agility and adaptability to the fast-paced game.
Training And Conditioning
Polo horses undergo rigorous training to excel in the sport. They are taught a number of key disciplines including ball-handling skills, responsiveness to the rider’s cues and the rules and strategies of the game.
As polo is such a physically-demanding game, conditioning of the animal is paramount, with a strong focus on building strength, endurance and agility in the rigorous training these horses undergo before they’re ever unseen in a match.
The Thriving UK Polo Scene
The UK has a vibrant polo scene with numerous clubs and tournaments taking place. Players and fans of the sport can witness the beauty and power of polo horses in action at prestigious events like the Gold Cup and the Queen’s Cup.
These tournaments feature some of the finest polo horses in the world showcasing their incredible athleticism and teamwork with skilled riders.
If you wanted to purchase one of these horses, the eye-watering price tag could set you back a few hundred thousand pounds.
Cost Of A Polo Horse
The cost of a polo horse can vary wildly, ranging from a few thousands to a few hundred thousand. Ultimately, much depends on the horse’s age, skill level, pedigree and training.
A well-trained and seasoned polo horse will require less training to get it match-ready. This is why they tend to command higher prices. In contrast, a less experienced horse will require more time to get it up to speed, which should be reflected in the price.
As well as the initial outlay, ongoing expenses such as boarding, training, veterinary care and food will all contribute to the overall investment in owning and maintaining a polo horse.
The Legacy Of Polo Horses
Polo horses have left an indelible mark on the world of equestrian sports and their legacy continues to thrive both in the UK and around the globe. These magnificent animals, with their speed, grace and ability to work in tandem with the rider remain at the heart of the captivating game of polo.
Embodying the enduring bond between horse and rider on the field of play, whether you’re a complete newcomer to the sport or a seasoned pro, there’s no denying the awe-inspiring role that polo horses play in this exhilarating game.