There is a particular moment at a summer polo match, usually late in the afternoon, when the light turns to gold, the dust hangs in the air and the sound of hooves rolls across the field like distant thunder. It is one of the great spectacles of the sporting season.
Polo is often called the sport of kings, and its traditions run deep. Yet for all its glamour, it is wonderfully easy to enjoy, even if you have never seen a match before.
The game in brief
Two teams of four riders compete to drive a small ball through the opposing goal using long-handled mallets. A match is divided into periods called chukkas, each lasting around seven minutes, and players change horses frequently to keep them fresh. The pace is extraordinary, and the bond between rider and horse is the heart of the sport.
Polo is played on horseback, but it is won in the partnership between two athletes, one of whom has four legs.
The art of spectating
Dress codes vary by event, but smart summer attire is a safe choice: linen, light tailoring, a good hat and, above all, sensible shoes. At half-time, spectators are traditionally invited onto the field to tread in the divots, pressing the churned turf back into place. It is a charming ritual and the perfect excuse for a stroll.
Arrive early, find a spot near the boards and bring a picnic if the event allows it. Watch the horses as closely as the players, and do not worry about understanding every rule. Like all the finest pleasures, polo rewards those who simply give themselves over to the afternoon.
