Polo is an ancient sport with a long and illustrious history. And that doesn’t just go for the horses and players. We’ve had centuries to hone the art of watching polo. Do you know the proper etiquette for polo spectators?
Polo Match Etiquette
With the chic attire, the buzz from the crowd, and the thrill of watching 1,000+ pound horses moving gracefully under the hand of their riders, attending a polo match is often just as much fun as playing polo. Once you’ve mastered the rules of the game, you may think it’s simply a matter of catching the action. But there’s a certain etiquette to attending a polo match that you should know.
Spectate safely. You wouldn’t think you’d be prone to distractions when there are eight massive horses thundering around the field, but you’d be surprised. Don’t get so distracted discussing the finer points of the game that you put yourself in harm’s way. Keep an eye out for stray balls, mallets, and horses.- Learn the lingo. You’ve mastered the basic terms of polo, now it’s time to show off your knowledge. A few well-placed words can make you look like a polo pro, whether this is your first match or your 50th. Want to impress a first time guest? Share the knowledge that Chukkar Farms is named after the segments of a polo match, which are called chukkars.
- Dress to impress. A wide-brimmed hat will keep you cool under the hot Alpharetta sun, while a simple, sophisticated ensemble gives polo matches a classic, relaxed feel. Ladies, leave the heels at home! You don’t want to wobble around the sidelines while your stilettos sink into the soft earth, and heels put a damper on the traditional “stomping of the divots.”
- Be on your best behavior. Polo etiquette for the audience falls more in line with a golf match than a football game. Celebrate good plays, but take care not to startle the horses. Enjoy the game standing on the sidelines or spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxed afternoon as you take in the action.
The start of polo season will be here before you know it. Visit Chukkar Farms to watch polo matches in Alpharetta.