In this interview with the Kirtlington Park Polo Club, Fiona Kalies shares with PoloWeekly what makes Kirtlington such an idyllic place to play polo. Read on to learn about this family oriented polo club and the supporting polo schools that surround it!
Can you give us a brief history on the Kirtlington Park Polo Club?
Over 90 years after its foundation in 1926, Kirtlington Park Polo Club is thriving and retains the strong family ethos that has always been very much at the heart of the Club.
Family involvement is as strong today as it was at the beginning of the twentieth century, and though the silver pots of tea and cucumber sandwiches may no longer be carried down from the big house in the park by the butler and lady’s maid, we have partnered with Oxford Fine Dining who provide some of the most exquisite meals on a Sunday afternoon.
What makes Kirtlington Park Polo Club unique?
The truly unique selling point of Kirtlington Park Polo Club is the picturesque backdrop of Kirtlington House with the Capability Brown landscaped park. It is still one of the most idyllic and quintessentially English settings for polo.
What tournaments does Kirtlington Park have coming up? Can international players participate?
Absolutely the more the merrier. This year we have:
- WIP La Rosada Ladies – 19th May
- KPPC Open Day – 26th May
- Rupert Thornloe Cup – 20th July
- Stephen Towler Cup – 20th July
- Budgett Everett Trophy – 11th August
How many polo ponies does Kirtlington Park Polo Club have?
The club itself does not have any but we have 2 polo schools on site Oxford Polo owned by David Ashby and 4 Polo owned by Melissa Wadley.
Are you seeing a lot of new people interested in playing polo?
Absolutely Oxford Polo and 4 Polo are doing amazing job bringing in new members and their work with the schools ensures that the next generation of polo players coming though. Kirtlington has had many young players who have come through the club and gone on to play in the high goal.
How can someone get started at Kirtlington Park Polo Club?
To get in contact with Oxford Polo (www.oxfordpolo.co.uk) or 4 Polo (www.kirtlingtonparkpoloschool.co.uk).
Where can people learn more about Kirtlington Park Polo Club?
Our website is www.kirtlingtonparkpoloclub.co.uk or you can follow us on FB and Instagram.
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