The 5th KNPC Nile Gold Polo Classic
When was the last time the words Uganda and Polo went together… In the last 7 years, The Madhvani family (a name you should start to remember in the polo world) have successfully built a beautiful polo club and now, their newest venture, polo safaris.
Only a 1 hour and 15 minute flight from Kampala, on a chartered flight, I flew directly into the middle of the Murchison Falls and National Park, located in the northern part of the Albertine Rift Valley on the White River Nile.
Flying in you can see the Elephants on the river, bathing and drinking, herds of buffalo, giraffe, Oribi, Hartebeest and much more. I assumed it would be difficult to find the wildlife but it appears to be more challenging to get them to move out of the road, and the 451 species of birds, left me in astonishment.
Just when I thought it couldn’t get better, I arrived at Chobe Safari Lodge. Breathtaking views of the River Nile, sunsets that are incommunicable, the sound of Hippo’s, the easy-going background noise of the Nile river. In essence, probably one of the best experiences of my life, not to mention an amazing wine list, encompassing options from all over the world. The chef that not only offered a menu but took the time to come to the table and offer anything not on the menu. Did I mention the wine list?
My accommodation was a short walking distance from the main lodge. My “tent” was bigger than my “tent” at home, with spacious interiors consisting of deep browns, leathers, and indulgent white sheets and a private balcony overlooking the River Nile. But alas, we did not go on safari for the accommodations, its about the wildlife and adventure, right?
At the Lodge they offer fishing, Safari Drives, Nature walks and even Breakfast in the Bush. Unfortunately for me the comfort of the lodging got the best of me and after playing poker on the patio of the lounge into the wee hours of the morning I was incapable of crafting an effort to get out of my bed.
After 3 days of fabulous Safari experiences it was time to get on a horse. Flying south this time about 2 hours we arrived at Kakira Nile Polo Club. Situated in the middle of a sugar plantation and surrounded by 25,000 acres of sugar cane. Kakira Nile polo club was set up by Maanan and Hrishi Madvani. Their father Nitin Madhvani used to play in Nairobi and has passed on his love for polo to his two sons. This small project now includes over 20 horses, polo field, 15 regular club members and international tournaments held throughout the year. Keeping with the theme of service and indulgence, the new club house consists of changing rooms with hot showers, riding arena for schooling and exercising the ponies and an amazing African themed patio area for members to sit and watch with a Pimms in hand.
The 5th KNPC Nile Gold Polo Classic was the main factor of this entire trip. With players travelling from Kenya, Switzerland, Barbados and Spain. I can easily compare partying with the Cheshire crowd on the Barbados tour (you know who you are) to partying with this crowd.
Hats off to the winners of The Madvani Cup for the Vth KNPC NILE GOLD POLO CLASSIC won by Lato Milks Team : Philip Arunga (+3), Devin Shretta (+1), Tim Chesire (0).
The Nile Cup won by the Barclays’ team: Chris Foot (+2), Mike Du Toit (+1), Maanan Madhvani (+1).
Definitely the MVP of the weekend was Chloe Spoerry from Kenya playing off +1. She is somebody to watch in the next few years. Fearless and swift.
Traveling to Uganda was probably one of the most blockbuster experiences I have had in a while. It’s a remarkable country by far; I would recommend it to anyone looking for something different. Pairing polo and safari together really blended well here. Grace and elegance in the middle of Africa. The Madhvani family certainly know how to treat their guests. To arrange your holiday please contact info@polosafaris.com
By Camilla Williams