The Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, CA have matches at 12 and 2 from January through March. Last Sunday was Opening Day and Hat Day.
Before the matches started, we wandered around the nearby gardens.
The first match begins! Each match has 5 "chuckers" which are 7 1/2 minutes each. The horses are changed each chucker.
Entrance to the match is free, unless you want the fancy seats on the other side. You can even tailgate right on the edge of the field for free on our side.
A short video showing how fast these horses can move - up to 35 miles per hour!
After the end of the 3rd chucker (like halftime, but really 3/5 time), the "crowd" is invited to walk across the field and do the "Divot Stomp." Everyone participates, even the dogs -
And the rich folks on the other side of the field.
We got a close up look at where the rich folds watch the match from...
Then it's time for the 2nd match.
Another "Divot Stomp" after the 3rd chucker, and this time we are promised free champagne! We all raced over, not doing a very good job on the divots, but unfortunately all the champagne was gone by the time we got there.
I did score some cake though...
The end of another perfect day!
What fun! Next time bring your own champagne!
ReplyDeleteI've always wanted to see a polo match. Thanks for taking us along!
ReplyDeleteIt looks a very interesting day out, and you dressed for the occasion. There are a couples of games each year in Cardiff and its good to see the rich at play.
ReplyDeleteYou'd think after seeing that picture of the rich lady she'd have enough money to buy a nicer outfit. She looked more like a clown than anything else.
ReplyDeleteLove the hats and the idea of hob nobbing with the other side. Was sort of worried about stomping something other than divots.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a different and interesting experience.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad they change out the horses every 7 1/2 minutes. I do think you should have decorated your hat. Some nice ostrich feathers would be appropriate.
ReplyDeleteYou post reminds me of the scene from Pretty Woman - including the "divot stomp." I'm envious because apparently it was warm outside!
ReplyDeleteThe sport of Kings!!! How exciting to get to see!!!
ReplyDeleteah ha! Hob KNobing with the rich! Here in my town we have horse racing and polo, and hunter/jumpers its a real horse town. They have champaign and strawberries on the opening day of fox hunting, RIDING and Drinking pretty cool!!
ReplyDeleteI've never been to a polo match - it looks like fun! Beautiful horses. :)
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