Kent Target Polocrosse Club

WHAT IS POLOCROSSE ?

A fast, exciting and action packed horse sport...

Polocrosse was originally developed by combining the sports of polo and lacrosse at a riding school near London and was used as an exercise to help people improve their riding. The modern game took shape in Australia in the 1930's. Today, there are over 6,000 players in the world.

In Australia, polocrosse is called the "King of the One Horse Sports" because a player can use only one horse throughout a tournament. The basic requirements of the game are simple - a horse, a racket (a bit like a lacrosse racket) and a ball (which is spongey so does not hurt you or your horse if it hits you!)

THE GAME OF POLOCROSSE

A polocrosse team consists of six players, divided into two sections of three who play alternate chukkas of a maximum of eight minutes each, either six or eight chukkas usually comprising a full match.

The three players in each section consist of a No. I or "Attack", a No. 2 or "Mid-Field", and No. 3 or "Defence". Teams score goals by throwing the ball through the opposition's goal posts. At the same time, they protect their goal from the other team. All players can catch, carry and throw the ball with their racquets. However, only the player at the No. 1 position is allowed to score.

The rules are designed with one primary concern, safety - for player and horse. Anything creating a dangerous situation is ruled illegal and is a penalty. The game is played on a pitch about the same size as rugby pitch. For more technical information on the sport, visit the website of the UK Polocrosse Association

WHO CAN PLAY

Polocrosse is for everyone.

You don't have to be an existing horse rider - lots of people from our club have learnt to ride through playing polocrosse.

If you already have a horse you are halfway there - all you need in addition are a few safety items such as bandages and boots, and a polocrosse stick - you're ready to play!

Polocrosse is appealing as a sport for all the family. Polocrosse is divided into different grades - so however good (or bad!) you are there are always people of your standard to play against - from absolute beginners to International riders.

Polocrosse, especially at Kent Target Polocrosse Club, is very sociable - Ball and riding skills are improved at our regular practices.

Above all, the basic requisite for the succesful Polocrosse player is a love of horses and a good sense of fun.