The Ladies British Open Championship was played on July 19th before the final of the Gold Cup. The eight teams that started the tournament had been narrowed down to two in the hotly contested final which drew record crowds.
Salty Polo, which includes the world’s top ranked player, Brit, ten- goal Nina Clarkin pushed Yaguara the whole way with end to end polo and a nail-biting conclusion. In the end, Yaguara comprising nine-goal Millie Hine, sisters Mia and Myla from the legendary Cambiaso polo dynasty, and Patron Martina Lowe proved just too strong. Maintaining their half-goal advantage throughout a tense final chukka, they held their nerve until the final horn to secure the prestigious British Ladies Open Championship title.
Winner of the Gusbourne Most Valuable Player award, Dual British/Australian Milly Hine said, “I couldn’t be more proud of the team and of our win. These are without doubt the biggest crowds we have ever played in front of and doing it on the same day as the Gold Cup, at home and in front of family friends is super special.”
The finalists were awarded wine from AIX en Provence, as well as gifts from tournament sponsors Le Chameau and Aspinal. The U.S. Polo Assn. Charity Cheque for £2500 was presented by President and CEO of U.S. Polo Assn., Michael Prince to the Founder of Power of Polo Charity Katy Hayward and the Best Playing Pony was Matuza Cassie, owned and played by Cata Lavina. The British Ladies Open Championship trophy was presented to Martina Lowe by Mariya Dykalo Creative Director of Aspinal of London.
Image credit Cowdray Park Polo Club/Mark Beaumont