International Ladies Polo event to aid injured jockeys
A FUNDRAISING international ladies polo tournament, which will take place in Co Wicklow next month, was launched at Tinakilly House recently.
The tournament, which will be in aid of the injured jockeys fund, will take place on Saturday, August 19, at the Ballyhenry Estate near Ashford.
Hosted by Polo Wicklow, the tournament will draw guests from around the world as top players travel from the USA, UK, Germany, France, Spain, South Africa, Australia, Argentina and Saudi Arabia to take part in the largest event on the Irish polo calendar.
The worlds of horseracing and polo came together for the launch on Thursday, July 4. During the course of the evening, the team who will represent Ireland was also announced, namely Julie Kavanagh, April Kent, Caroline Keeling and Wicklow’s Siobhan Herbst.
‘It is wonderful to see the level of interest the tournament generates as a top international sporting event,’ said Siobhan. ‘We are also delighted that this year’s charity partner is the injured jockeys fund and we can help support the great work they do.’
This year’s event will feature three exciting matches – Ireland V the USA, Ireland V the rest of the world and an entertaining charity jockeys V trainers encounter – with the first match beginning at noon. The charity match will feature top trainers and well known jockeys from the racing world trying their hand at polo as well as retrained former-racehorses showcasing the versatility of the thoroughbred.
There will be a fundraising lunch in the pitchside marquee overlooking the action, where guests can enjoy a champagne reception, live jazz and a four-course lunch catered by Tinakilly House. Post-tournament, the festivities will continue with a barbecue and evening entertainment.
Away from the polo, there will be artisan food and drink vendors, divot stomping at half-time, a free kids zone and younger guests can enter a novelty ‘Best Teddy Bear Picnic’ competition. There will also be a ceremonial East-Wicklow Harriers Hound Parade and luxury car displays.
Tickets must be pre-booked. For more information, visit www.ladiespolo.ie