Can you tell us how British Polo Day was founded and the vision behind it?
The first British Polo Day took place in Dubai in 2009. The idea was to create a platform for the many expatriates and Emiratis to get together around the shared love of polo. It seemed to strike a chord, and we found that there was real appetite to host similar events in many more countries. There is an old motto that “the Game of Kings will always be the King of Games”, and there is something about the World’s oldest sport that means it is almost universally enjoyed. British Polo Days have therefore, on one level, become a celebration of craft and heritage in a polo events network that spans the World.
They have, however, on another level, become much more than just polo, as we now work with more than 30 partners in an entrepreneurial ecosystem that nurtures international partnerships and relationships that transcend the sport. Our title partner, RJI Capital, recognised that with a global platform for like-minded individuals with a passion for polo and a proven commitment to philanthropy, the BPD-RJI partnership demonstrates our shared values. It allows us to bring together key decision-makers and influencers in a unique environment where business meets pleasure through polo.
The event now takes place across multiple continents and destinations from Mexico to Jaipur - are there any other exciting locations in the pipeline?
Yes, we have held British Polo Days in 16 countries but are always on the look out for new and interesting locations, for example, South Korea. Sir Winston Churchill once said that a polo handicap was a passport to the world, and for our guests, British Polo Days provide access to some of the world’s best locations from the Umaid Bhawan Palace to Nihiwatu. We craft an itinerary that allows international guests to really discover the heart of the host country. Our hosts always generously throw open the doors and allow us to experience the essence of their countries.
How important is the Dubai event in the series and how does the event stack up?
Dubai is not only my home, but it’s British Polo Day’s home. It was our first event and the blueprint for all the others. However, it’s fitting that our 50th British Polo Day will be in Great Britain this summer.
What are some of the charities and philanthropic efforts British Polo Day has helped to raise money and awareness for?
At our 50th event in Great Britain, we will hopefully break through our target of US$2 million raised for good causes. In each country we raise money for two charities, an international charity and a local charity, both of which mean something to our patrons and partners. For example, in the UAE this year, we have raised more than $45,000 for Women And Health Alliance International (WAHA) launched by Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan Al-Nahyan and Ending Domestic Violence, a UK based charity under the patronage of Baroness Scotland of Asthal, who attended our recent event in Abu Dhabi. We auction off some amazing lots, such as a stay on ultra-exclusive Velaa Private Island, a safari of a lifetime to Kenya with The Safari Collection, a special cigar dinner at Franco’s in London and a luxurious retreat to Royal Mansour Marrakech.
Sir Richard Branson at the British Polo Day Morocco Gala Dinner at Dar Soukkar (by Keoma Zec)
What luxury brands are involved in this year’s event?
We celebrate the best of British and the top brands in our host countries. At our UAE events in 2016 we are pleased to have partnered with Bentley around the launch of the new Bentayga. Our partner in Dubai, Mohammed Al Habtoor, is also Bentley’s local partner and a great friend of British Polo Day so it is a perfect fit. We also work very closely with Harrods – the Green Man flies out to all our events and is a familiar sight for many. Other international brands are the likes of Jaeger-LeCoultre, whose history is intertwined with polo, as the iconic Reverso was specifically made for polo players so that they could flip the face to protect it from flying balls. In addition, with Royal Salute, Hackett London, Justerini & Brooks, Charles Russell Speechlys, British Silverware, Global Partnership Family Offices, Holland & Holland, True Luxury Travel, Charles McDowell Properties, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Etihad, Brompton, Clinova, Taylor Morris Eyewear, Billionaire.com, D.R Harris & Co, Floris and Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts – we couldn’t ask for better partners who all bring something special to the British Polo Day experience.
What sort of atmosphere and entertainment can Dubai spectators look forward to this Friday?
We aim for a fun, relaxed atmosphere, but with a mix of interesting and interested people. We want people to experience the best of Britain and best of Dubai. We have Cavalry vs Guards Camel Polo, Brompton Bicycle Polo, Oxbridge vs Gulf, and Habtoor Polo vs the British Exiles. Although there is a private, invitation-only VIP lunch on the clubhouse terrace of the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, families are all welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy it on the lawns.
Baroness Scotland, Dr. Khawla Salem Rashed Al Saaedi and HH Sheikh Mohammed Al Nahyan Bin Nahyan at British Polo Day Abu Dhabi 2016 (by Sam Churchill)
And lastly, is there any polo lingo you recommend using to sound clever on the day?
The pitch is the “field”; the horses are “ponies”; the mallets are “sticks” and the quarters are “chukkas”. If someone is getting technical about the match, and asks your opinion, just say: “I think it’s really more about horsepower in this game.” or “What a horseman!” And if someone takes an air shot and totally misses, you never criticise – just say: “Ugly bounce”, which covers a multitude of sins! Also, at the half-time point, there is what is sometimes referred to as the Pretty Woman moment when one “treads-in”, flattening out the upturned soil created by the charging ponies. Avoid the steaming divot!