What is polo?

Polo (Persian chogan) originated in Persia sometime between the 6th century BC and 1st century AD. It is a team sport played on horseback. The objective being to score goals against an opposing team. Players drive a small plastic or wooden ball into the opponents goal using a long-handled mallet. Traditionally played on a grass field 300 × 600 yards (250m by 270m), each team consists of 4 men and their mounts. It is played with a solid plastic ball which has replaced the wooden version of the ball.

Arena polo ( another version of the game) is played in an arena and involves only 3 players per side, with shorter plays and more maneuvering at lower speeds due to the space limitations of the arena. It is played with a small air filled ball.

The modern game lasts 2 hours and is divided into periods called chukkas. It is played professionally and was once an Olympic sport.

The game consists of 4 to 8, 7 minute chukkas, during which players change mounts. At the end of each 7 minute chukka, play continues for an extra 30 seconds or until a stoppage in play, whichever is first. There is a 4 minute interval between chukkas and a 10 minute half time. Play is continuous and only stops for penalties, broken tack (equipment) or injury to player or animal.

Historical records state that James Gordon Bennet established the Westchester Polo Club on 6 May 1876 and on 13 May 1876 the Jerome Park Racetrack in Westchester County was the site of the 1st American outdoor polo match.