Windsor Polo International returns

PERHAPS IT WAS only fitting that in the year of the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landings at Gallipoli, Australia will meet New Zealand at this year’s Windsor Polo International.

The event, first held almost 20 years ago, is arguably the biggest spectator event for polo in Australia.

Previously the Polo International has attracted up to 4,000 people to the Hawkesbury and returns to Windsor Polo Club on Saturday.

The Australian team of Alec White, Jack Archibald, Rob Archibald and Glen Gilmore will take on New Zealand in the showpiece event along with an interstate women’s match and an under 21s colts match.

Windsor Polo Club president Adam Buchert said a day at the polo had something for everyone.

“It’s got a picnic feel to it but also the blood, sweat and tears and the horses galloping out there,” he said.

“Out here you can sit under the big trees next to the playing field and the kids can run around and play.

“It’s a great family day out. It’s so accessible.”

Buchert said the club was again expecting a good crowd.

“All indications are that we may not have as many corporate marquees as previous years being Easter Saturday but I think that will just make it even more appealing for ma and pa spectators from the Hawkesbury,” he said.

“You don’t have to book in a huge marquee, although there are those facilities.

“You can have the champagne and lobster and prawns in the marquee or if you want to park the car and take an eskey and a blanket.

“We always get local support but we need to encourage more locals here. If people feel they aren’t welcome, they’re wrong.

“People who are interested in horses or might not have seen polo before we’d love them to turn up and see for themselves.”

Gates open at 11am on Saturday with polo matches and entertainment from noon until 5pm.

An after party will follow from 5pm to 7pm in the clubhouse enclosure.

Tickets are available online at www.thepolointernational.com.au.