Veuve Clicquot Polo on the Beach

Veuve Clicquot Polo on the Beach takes over Watergate Bay

The free event, to be held at Watergate Bay on Monday 14th September, will see two teams play a fast-paced exhibition match on one of Cornwall’s best-known surfing beaches.

Now in its third year Veuve Clicquot Polo on the Beach aims to introduce the sport – often perceived as the exclusive preserve of the well-heeled and affluent – to a wider audience.

Last year over 2,000 people, ranging from polo enthusiasts to curious locals, were treated to a really exciting match contested by players of the highest caliber – without any of the stuffiness or formality of traditional polo tournaments.”

This year the two teams, sponsored by Midas Construction and South West Polo, will be made up of some highly experienced and talented players drawn from the ranks of Britain’s professionals.

England international Richard Blake Thomas will be joined by Swiss national Barbara Zingg, who is the Polo Manager at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Also taking part will be arena polo specialist Tim Vaux from Somerset, and Andy Burgess, founder of South West Polo.

The public can enjoy free access to the beach at Watergate Bay, with the unique opportunity to watch the match at close quarters without the restriction of ticket-only seating or private enclosures.

Commentators Captain Ben Marshall and Richard Eldridge will bring their wealth of polo experience, explaining the rules and strategy of the game during the match, and summarising the action for the spectators.

A public champagne bar and beach barbeque will be open from 5.00pm, with the match starting at 6.30pm. A limited number of hospitality packages are also available, starting at 5.30pm with a champagne and canapé reception and live band on the hotel terrace. The £75 package also includes entry to the post polo party in The Beach Hut with a buffet and band.

A pre-polo package which does not include entry to the post-polo party at The Beach Hut is also available for £45 per person. Hospitality tickets are available from Claire Davies (claire@watergatebay.co.uk or 01637 861239).