Page 37 - midland

Beside a polo ground in Gilgit, Pakistan, these words are inscribed on a stone tablet: “Let others play at other things. The king of games is still the game of kings.” This famous verse connotes the pride that polo players feel regarding the deep and distinguished history of the game. Polo is widely argued as the oldest recorded team sport in history, thought to have originated between 2,000 and 2,500 years ago in China and Persia as a method of keeping horses and soldiers ready for war. Today, members of the British monarchy are often photographed while playing polo. Interestingly, England was a relative latecomer to the sport, not being introduced until 1869. Seven years later, the game was brought to the United States. Some may consider the history and challenge of the game a bit intimidating, but here in Midland, where horses are at least a part of life and, for many, a way of life, there are absolutely no limits to what sport can be enjoyed on horseback. Thanks to the Midland Polo Club, you don’t have to have royal blood, just some free time and a love for horses running through your veins.

The actual sport is a rigorous competition between two teams of four players each on horseback. Each team attempts to score goals by getting the ball in the other team’s goal using long mallets. It may sound easy. Most people have some experience with the same basic conventions in soccer, golf, and other sports. However, the horsemanship required to play well brings an entirely different level of challenge than any other sport.

When asked what it feels like to play polo, Carolyn Stimmel says, “It’s a team sport, which I really love. It’s about bringing out the best in each other and in your horse, and it’s about riding.” Stimmel has been playing for over twenty fve years and agrees with people who say that horsemanship is eighty percent of the game. “You could have great hand-eye coordination if you’ve played golf or tennis, but if you can’t get your horse over to the play in time or get him turned around to hit the ball, it just won’t work!” For this reason, players have to have a close bond with their horses, making it possible for them to think and act together.