HPA Summer Polo Procedures
Today, Monday 29 March, sees outdoor sports allowed to resume in England, which means that polo can be played from today! The Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) has announced their Summer Polo Procedures (click here to view the full document) which are applicable from today, but will only be authorised to be played at or organised by HPA affiliated clubs – polo played elsewhere does not qualify as an organised activity; private grounds can apply to the HPA for permission to hold practice matches if they are not already under the auspices of a club.
The list of procedures for polo are extensive, but the following Government guidance for all applies at all times, whenever and wherever: wash hands regularly, maintain social distancing of two metres and cover nose and mouth if in close proximity. Unfortunately, currently both supporters and spectators are still not allowed to attend, with attendees limited according to government guidelines until 12 April. Additionally, each team will need to have a Team Covid Marshall who will be responsible for their team’s social distancing and wearing of face coverings when required from arrival to departure – if these are not followed then there will be a £500 fine payable by the team Captain before the next match.
Photograph: Today sees polo resume in England but still under strict Covid procedures. By ©www.imagesofpolo.com