The Veterans Tournament was a great success with 5 teams competing in two levels.
A large crowd had the pleasure of witnessing some thrilling polo, and all credit to the players that have moved up to tournament level via the TPPC coaching regime.
The umpires, Justin & Lolly Stanhope White allowed the chukkas to flow and provide exciting polo, thank you both.
Time keeping and scoring was carried out to the usual high standard by Bob McNab and all things polo smoothly delivered, as ever, by Flic Townend.
Hot drinks and snacks were provided with the massive help of Lesley McNab & Helen Townend, thank you both so much.
Sara Balcombe was onsite providing medical cover, fortunately no injuries were sustained during play.
In the ZERO goal section 3 teams played an American Style Tournament of 2x2x2 chukkas.
Played under handicap rules, two veterans teams plus the Help For Heroes squad fought out this section with the Veteran A (White), marshalled by Ben Stokes, coming out on top with Veterans B, led by Piers Fletcher gained 2nd place and the Help For Heroes team providing strong opposition throughout, Elaine Corner leading her team well.
The 2 goal section provided great entertainment with 26 goals on the score board after the 4 chukkas.
Due to an injury during the week to Nigel Prescott (RLC), a replacement was needed to make up the team.
“TBC” was confirmed on Sunday morning, yours truly getting a runout for the first time in a tournament since last year’s Veterans Tournament.
The Royal Artillery started with a 2 goal advantage on the scoreboard under the handicap rule.
Luke Wadman showed his experience for the R.A. and was ably supported by young Henry Whichelo-Page, and Neil Budd playing a very good tactical role.
The RLC relied on their teamwork, rather fortuitously having a practice chukka the previous Friday, the “turning onto backhands” proved decisive.
The play was competitively fierce and the winner was not sure until the very last minute of the last chukka.
The RLC taking the match with a 15-11 scoreline.
A big thank you to the external horse providers, the Brocket family from Dorset Polo and Sean Wilson-Smith from Hampshire Polo.
The TPPC horse were turned exceptionally well, congratulations to Emily Green and her polo yard team, Jo, Rosie and Amy.
On a poignant note, lets recognise “Herman”, playing his last tournament before heading to a well-deserved retirement.
John Wright brought Herman over from Argentina, since then Herman has helped so many polo players learn the game and gain confidence over the last 15 years.
