Polo is a historic team sport, played on horseback, that originated in Central Asia over 2000 years ago. It is an exciting, fast-paced and competitive game where two teams of four riders compete to score goals with a wooden ball by using long-handled mallets. The modern game of horse polo is now played on a grass field and has rules and regulations that govern the game.
How to Play Horse Polo
Horse polo is a game of skill, speed and strategy. The objective of the game is to score goals by using long-handled mallets to hit a wooden ball into the opposing team’s goal. A team is composed of four players and each player has a horse that they ride during the game.
The Field
The field of play is usually rectangular and measures 300 yards long by 160 yards wide. At either end of the field, there are two goals. The goals are 6 yards wide by 4.5 feet high and are placed at the end of the field.
The Rules
Horse polo is a game governed by a set of rules. The main rules are as follows:
- Players must remain mounted during the game. Players are not allowed to dismount their horses during the game or they will be penalized.
- Each team has four players. Each team is composed of four players, one for each position on the field.
- The ball must be hit with the mallet. The ball cannot be handled or touched with any part of the body or the horse.
- The ball is in play at all times. The ball is always in play until it goes out of bounds or a goal is scored.
- A goal is scored when the ball goes through the goal. A goal is scored when the ball passes completely through the goal.
- A foul is called when a player commits an infraction. Fouls can range from hitting the ball with the body or horse to moving the ball with the mallet.
The Equipment
Horse polo requires specific equipment for both the horses and the players.
- Horses: Horses must be healthy and in good condition to participate in the game. Horses need to be well-trained and have the ability to turn quickly and respond to the rider’s commands. The horses should also be fit and agile as they will be required to gallop, turn, and stop.
- Mallets: Players use mallets to hit the ball. The mallet is made of bamboo and is usually between 48 and 51 inches long. The head of the mallet is curved and has a rounded end for striking the ball.
- Balls: The ball used in horse polo is made of wood and is between 4 and 4.5 inches in diameter. The ball is hollow and filled with air and is very light, weighing only 14 ounces.
- Protective Gear: Protective gear such as helmets and body protectors are strongly recommended for all players. Helmets must comply with the ASTM standard for horseback riding helmets and must be fastened securely to the head with a chinstrap.
The Positions
Horse polo is played with four players on each team. Each player is assigned a specific position on the field. The four positions are:
- No.1: This is the most offensive position and the player is responsible for scoring goals. The No.1 player is usually the team’s most experienced player.
- No.2: The No.2 player is responsible for defending the goal and stopping the opponents from scoring. This player needs to be fast and have good defensive skills.
- No.3: The No.3 player is a combination of offensive and defensive player. This player needs to have good passing skills and be able to move the ball up the field. The No.3 player is usually the team’s most versatile player.
- No.4: The No.4 player is the defensive anchor of the team. This player is responsible for protecting the goal and stopping the opponents from scoring. The No.4 player needs to be strong, fast and have good defensive skills.
The Duration of the Game
A game of polo is divided into six periods, known as chukkas. Each chukka lasts for seven minutes. The break between each chukka is three minutes. If at the end of the sixth chukka the score is tied, an extra chukka may be played to decide the winner.
Scoring
A goal is scored when the ball passes completely through the goal. A goal is worth one point. Each team can only score from one half of the field. The team that scores the most goals at the end of the game is the winner.
Strategy and Tactics
Horse polo is a game of strategy and tactics. Players need to be able to think quickly and anticipate the moves of their opponents. The team that has the best strategy and tactics will usually be the one that wins the game.
Fouls and Penalties
Fouls and penalties are a part of the game. If a player commits a foul or penalty, the opposing team is awarded a free hit. Fouls and penalties can range from hitting the ball with the body or horse to moving the ball with the mallet.
Conclusion
Horse polo is an exciting and fast-paced game that requires skill, speed and strategy. It is a game that can be enjoyed by both experienced riders and novice players alike. With the right equipment and an understanding of the game, anyone can enjoy the thrill and excitement of horse polo.