If you haven’t seen a game of polo, you are in for a treat. Nestled in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, the Newport Polo Club is America’s first, established in 1876. Whether you are new to polo, or a frequent watcher, the game of polo is accessible to all. Newport Polo USA vs England was our season ending for 2024. However, the Newport Polo final game was on September 28th.
Polo Parties and Manners
Most attendees to polo matches are social in nature. However somewhat clueless to the rules of the game itself. It’s time to party, for many. To eat, drink and be merry! Some don’t even watch the match. They are too busy socialising. There are plenty of chalets and party tents for groups for alfresco dining, in addition to lawn picnicking. Food trucks are available for additional party foods.
Seasonal passes for lawn seating sell-out quickly. New are the seasonal Pavilion passes with additional parking. Unfortunately, it does not include our favourite section under the Pavilion tent. Besides, unless you plan to attend every Saturday for four months, it’s a waste of money. Personally, we rather select the games to attend for the season. We usually attend four to five games.
The Pavilion seating provides an extra level of comfort. The wait staff are available for drink orders, and tables for six and four are provided. Speaking of manners, let us address the “elephant in the room.” Do not block people’s views! Full stop. The Social Diary has no issues “teaching” the public about common courtesy. Additionally, please do not loiter about the Pavilion. Take your seat and be respectful.
Fabulous Hats and Fashion
Fashion plays a part with some of the ladies in visual hats and fascinators. Gentlemen’s attire may also get a face lift. Think Ralph Lauren Polo, and you will have the style statement. Still others come as they are, in casual homey outfits.
The Social Diary is a “hats and gloves” community. Because, it’s important to put your best front forward, regardless of the event. So, Newport Polo USA vs England was no different. Being that it was our last game of the season, we came covered in colour.
We pay particular attention to hats, of course. After all, it’s our pièce de résistance. Some people collect shoes, we collect hats. Ladies can’t go wrong with a lovely floral adornment for the head! The Gentlemen were equally fashion-forward! Linen definitely makes a statement!
Half-time Mix and Mingle
During half time, it’s time to stomp the divots. These are patches of earth and grass the horse’s hoofs kick up during play. It’s a fun way to stretch your legs, mix and mingle.
Newport Polo USA vs England
There are a few games that’s worth seeing. Our recommended list includes Ireland, Argentina, Italy and England. Notice it’s not the United Kingdom. Additionally, the Newport Polo Club flew the Saint George’s Cross flag. The red cross on white background is the flag of England. Most people are familiar with the “Union Jack,” however Saint George’s Cross flag predates this.
The game of polo starts with a coin toss, then six chukkas or chukkers, depending on where you are from. Each chukka lasts seven and half minutes. There are four players who are literally galloping the length of the field. The physical excursion also takes a toll on the “ponies,” thus changed out throughout the game. The awards ceremony also recognises the game horse.
The Newport Polo USA vs England game is not a high goal polo. The club does not list the player’s rankings. If interested in seeing high goal polo, Greenwich CT, Bethpage NY or Wellington FL are your better bet. In the game of polo, the Argentines probably have the most high goal polo players. They have consistently dominated “the sport of kings.”
Newport Polo USA vs England
England triumphs!