BACK IN THE SADDLE

LIFE is all about ups and downs – just ask PRINCE HARRY. One minute he was in the saddle, the next thing he was on the ground. But in polo, as in life, there’s only one thing to do: get right back on that horse again.

Symbolic, right? Harry is said to have found his new life challenging after fleeing The Firm for the golden sunlight of California. Yet he’s clearly found his mojo again – and the sport he played for years back in Britain is undoubtedly helping.

Recent pics of him in action for his polo team, Los Padres, at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club show him looking once more like the fun-loving, playful prince of old – and not even a tumble at a recent match could dampen his spirits.

Harry, (37), who was unharmed in the incident, was later pictured chatting to composer DAVID FOSTER (72), with whom he’s developed a firm friendship.

David’s wife, singer Katharine McPhee (38), went to school with Harry’s wife, MEGHAN, DUCHESS OF SUSSEX, and recently told US entertainment news show Access Hollywood how her husband “has a really, really beautiful relationship with Harry. They’re so cute. They’re like father and son.”

Another person who’s been instrumental in helping Harry find his groove is old friend and team mate NACHO FIGUERAS.

The Argentinian polo player invited Harry to join the Los Padres team when this year’s polo season kicked off last month. Harry loves it. “He’s just one of the guys,” an onlooker says.

The club is just a stone’s throw away from the Montecito home he shares with Meghan (40) and their kids, Archie (3) and Lili (1).

“Prince Harry looks so comfortable and happy on the polo field,” a Los Padres team insider said.

Prince Harry and his horse took a tumble during a recent game at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club.

His wife, Meghan, pictured here at a polo match in May, is said to be extremely supportive of Harry’s hobby. Harry chats to Canadian musician David Foster, who arranged the Sussexes’ stay at a secluded mansion on Vancouver Island before they moved to California.

Polo player Nacho Figueras and his wife, Argentinian retired high jumper Delfina Blaquier, have been instrumental in helping Harry and Meghan settle in California.