Mary Allen
Introduction: The sport of polocrosse
Polocrosse is an equestrian sport that originated in Australia in the 1930s. It is a combination of polo and lacrosse and is played by teams of six players on horseback. The objective of the game is to score goals by throwing a ball through the opposing team’s goal posts using a racquet.
What is polocrosse?
Polocrosse is a fast-paced sport that requires horses to be agile, quick, and responsive to their rider’s commands. It is played on a field that is 60 yards wide and 160 yards long, with goal posts at each end. The game starts with a line-up in the center of the field, and the ball is thrown between the two teams. Players can carry the ball in their racquet or throw it to their teammates. The game lasts for eight minutes per chukka, with four chukkas in a game.
Characteristics of a polocrosse horse
A good polocrosse horse should be strong, agile, and fast. It should also be able to stop and turn quickly to avoid collisions with other horses. The horse should have a good temperament and be able to tolerate the noise and excitement of the game. Polocrosse horses are usually between 14 and 16 hands high and can be of any breed, although Thoroughbreds and Australian Stock Horses are popular choices.
Similarities between polo and polocrosse
Both polo and polocrosse are equestrian sports that require riders to be skilled in horse riding and ball-handling. Both sports also require players to be able to work as a team and communicate effectively with their teammates. The equipment used in both sports is also similar, with players wearing helmets and using a racquet to handle the ball.
Differences between polo and polocrosse
Polo is played on a larger field and requires more players per team than polocrosse. Polo ponies are also trained differently than polocrosse horses, with a greater emphasis on speed and agility. Polocrosse is a contact sport, and players are allowed to bump into each other and use their horses to block their opponents.
Can polo ponies be used for polocrosse?
Yes, polo ponies can be used for polocrosse. However, they may require additional training to adapt to the different requirements of the sport. Polo ponies are typically trained to follow the ball and work closely with their rider, whereas polocrosse horses need to be able to work independently and make quick decisions on the field.
Pros and cons of using polo ponies for polocrosse
One advantage of using polo ponies for polocrosse is that they are already trained to handle a racquet and follow the ball. They are also usually very agile and fast, which can be an asset in polocrosse. However, polo ponies may not be used to the physicality of polocrosse and may need additional training to adapt to the contact nature of the sport.
Training polo ponies for polocrosse
To train a polo pony for polocrosse, it is important to expose the horse to the noise and excitement of the game. The horse should be gradually introduced to the racquet and ball and taught to follow the ball on the field. The horse should also be trained to make quick turns and stops and to work independently from the rider.
Adapting equipment for polo ponies in polocrosse
The equipment used for polo ponies in polocrosse is similar to that used for polocrosse horses. However, the racquet may need to be modified to suit the pony’s size and the horse’s saddle may need to be adjusted to ensure a good fit.
Success stories of polo ponies in polocrosse
There are many success stories of polo ponies being used in polocrosse. Some polo players have successfully transitioned to polocrosse and have excelled in the sport. One example is the Australian polo player, Ruki Baillieu, who has won multiple national polocrosse championships using a polo pony.
Conclusion: The potential of polo ponies in polocrosse
Polo ponies have the potential to be successful in polocrosse with the right training and preparation. While they may need to adapt to the physicality of the sport, their agility and speed can be an asset on the field.
Further considerations for using polo ponies in polocrosse
When using polo ponies in polocrosse, it is important to ensure that the horse is fit and healthy and able to handle the demands of the game. It is also important to train the horse specifically for polocrosse and not assume that their polo training will be enough. Finally, it is important to work with a qualified coach or trainer who can help guide the horse and rider through the training process.