What is polo? Polo is an exciting type of equestrian sport in which two opposing teams play to score against each other in a match. Each team consists of 3 (in indoor polo) or 4 (in outdoor polo) mounted players. A typical polo match consists of 6 chukkas (periods of play) that lasts 7 minutes each.
What equipment does a polo player use in polo? A mallet (48 to 54 inches long, depending on horse height), horses (polo ponies) of about 15 hands tall, a helmet (sometimes with face mask), a pair of brown boots, a pair of knee guards, a pair of gloves, a pair of white jeans, polo shirt, whip, and a pair of spurs (not universally used), etc
What is a ‘polo handicap’? A ‘handicap’ is a rating that indicates a player’s level of polo proficiency. It may range from a minimum of ‘-2 goals’ to a maximum of ’10 goals’. A ‘team handicap’ is calculated by adding up the total goals of all players on the team.
How big is a polo field and arena? For outdoor polo, which is played on mowed turf, the field is typically 300 yards long and 160 yards wide. There are sideboards around the field that mark out the sidelines. Indoor polo is played in an enclosed and covered sand arena that is 300 feet in length by 150 feet in width.
Where is polo played today? Polo is currently played in over 150 countries and regions, most notably China, Argentina, USA, UK, India, Pakistan, Thailand, Australia, and countries in the Middle East.
Where can I play polo in Hong Kong? Polo is not available in Hong Kong today. Players from Hong Kong usually play in Mainland China, Southeast Asia, the USA and Europe.
Some say polo is a sport for the elites. Is this true? Contrary to popular belief, we consider polo a sport for people from all social, cultural or economic backgrounds. We are delighted to assist anyone who is interested in learning more about polo.
Is polo dangerous? As with other equestrian sports or team sports in general, polo is not free of risk. Players are advised to wear proper protective gear and follow the rules of polo to maximize the level of safety.
Does the Hong Kong Polo Club Ltd represent Hong Kong? We are a company formed by polo enthusiasts in the interest of promoting polo playing and appreciation in the region. We are, however, not the official national association of Hong Kong.