More than 600 spectators witnessed the Isle of Man’s first fully competitive polo matches at the weekend [Feb 14th and 15th] with two games held on Ballaugh beach. The Triskelion Polo Club, which is based in Grenaby and organised the events, played the British Army Reserves with the result based on an aggregate score from both matches. Triskelion, resplendent in their jerseys sponsored by Miracles Recruitment, won 3-2 on Saturday in front of a crowd of around 150 spectators. More than 500 turned out on Sunday to see the home side seal an 8-7 aggregate win.

Triskelion Polo Club is run by General Manager Frazer Houston and his brother Cameron who are both experienced polo players and all-round horsemen. Frazer said:

“We must say a big thank you to everyone who contributed to a great weekend, and especially the British Army Reserves team for visiting the Island for the first time. The support we received on both days was fantastic and shows the massive potential which polo has on the Island. Both games were played in a competitive but friendly spirit, and the Army Reserves are keen to return for a rematch! We are already looking at organising more matches against British armed forces teams in the coming months.”

Apart from Cameron, who is a professional polo player and a Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) Accredited Coach, all the other Triskelion players who took part in the Ballaugh matches are novices who have only recently taken up the sport. Frazer says this shows that it’s possible to pick-up polo very quickly, no matter what age, and even without any previous riding experience. He added:

“Many of the Triskelion team have only taken up polo in the last few months – and one of the team, Graham Dimelow, only began horse riding towards the end of last year. All of the team have made tremendous progress in a short time which shows how accessible polo is as a sport. You don’t have to have years of riding experience if you are given the correct coaching.”  

Triskelion Polo Club, which is based at Grenaby Mooar, Malew, was set up towards the end of last year and has already organised many ‘Learn To Play’ events for all ages, including special sessions for schools, and corporate events. Expert coaching is provided by experienced professionals who teach novices to ride the Club’s stable of polo ponies. All equipment is provided for those who need it, but coaching can also be given to those who have their own ponies. For more information go to www.triskelionpolo.club/ and the Club’s Facebook page – or email polo@triskelionpolo.club or phone 07624 272547. 

Photo -  Action from the polo matches held on Ballaugh beach which were organised by the Triskelion Polo Club. Photos by Bill Callow.