POLO FACTS
- Tailgating is customary at a polo match and happens on the sidelines of the field all during the game, not just before.
- Half-time brings the age-old tradition of "divot stomping" in which spectators walk onto the field to replace the divots and socialize.
- A polo field is 9 times the size of a football field - almost 10 acres in size—but spectators still remain close to the action.
- There are four players to a team. Each player is assigned a position, designated by the numbers 1 through 4.
- The 3 position is usually the highest rated player and captain of the team.
- Men and women can play in the same game and are treated as equals, as indicated by their handicaps alone.
- A polo match is comprised of six chukkers, or periods of playing time, each lasting about seven and a half minutes.
- The ball is typically clocked at over 90 mph.
- If the ball breaks during the play, players may continue playing the largest piece.
- Even left-handed players must play right-handed.
- Although they are called ponies, polo horses are full sized horses (often Thoroughbreds) and contribute up to 80% of the rider's ability to make plays.
- Especially in higher goal matches, most of the horses are mature females (mares).
- Intercollegiate teams play indoors during the winter.
