WHO’S WHO HOW TO RECOGNISE THE TRIBES

The royal set

The monarchy has long nurtured a passion for polo, currently beloved by the Princes and Zara Tindall.

The glamorous groupies

These beautifully turned out-types only attend to add further glitz to the geldings, wafting across verandas, champagne flute in hand. Expect at least two outfit changes.

The great pretenders

This lot haven’t grown up watching steeds gallop across the vibrant green pastures of Britain’s best estates but they’re willing to give it a go. You can spot them by the conspicuous headgear.

The diehards

Hell hath no fury like a sports fan scorned. You can expect to hear old boys threatening to report the arbitrator of the game to the Hurlingham Polo Association, and lots of tutting.

The foreign legion

Buenos Aires and Palm Beach host some big competitions, so a steady contingent of international players and their entourages are on hand. Usually easy to spot owing to their being incorrectly dressed for the weather.