POLO
There is quite a story behind the Countess of Dudley Cup.
Legend has it that the NSW Championship trophy, first played for in 1910, earned its name through a connection between the Countess and Banjo Paterson.
The cup is arguably one of the most historic trophies in Australian sport – and it will be played for at Richmond for the first time on Sunday.
Sydney Polo Club, based at Richmond, is one of Australia’s first polo clubs dating back to 1870 with the celebrated Paterson on its list of former players.
The NSW Championships is played for over the week with the final - and the Dudley Cup - up for grabs on Sunday.
Sydney Polo Club CEO Rebecca Higgins said she expected an exciting weekend for all visitors regardless of their prior exposure to the sport.
“Spectators don’t have to be highly knowledgeable to attend, this is a great day for amateurs and seasoned professionals,” she said.
“There are teams coming from all over NSW, many from the Scone region, as well as teams from QLD and Western Australia. This is one of the highest calibre tournaments in Australia on world class fields.
“All in all it will be a fantastic day of high goal polo and an excellent opportunity to see elite athletes perform for their club on horseback.”
The trophy was named after the wife of William Ward, the second Earl of Dudley, who was the Governor General from 1908 to 1911.
It is unsure what the catalyst was for the Countess lending her name to the trophy but it is thought to involve Paterson.
With an interest in developing nursing services in the outback, the Countess enlisted Paterson, by then a national figure, in support of her cause.
Paterson was also prominent in Sydney polo – and then well placed to ask a favour of her in return.
The polo community and their friends are encouraged to go along and support their club.
Some of the confirmed players involved include the Three Whites, Alec, Will and Jasper and owner of the Willo Polo Club Andrew Williams.
Gates open for Sunday’s finals at 10am.