Polo is a fast paced sport played in periods
called chukkars. Two teams of three players each ride a string of different horses in each chukkar.
The horses can be from any breed, although many have thoroughbred blood for speed.
The horses are very well trained to stop on a dime, spin, turn and gallop from a halt with
just a little pressure on their neck. A good polo horse demands a lot of money, so at the highest
levels this sport is only for the very rich.
It is this atmosphere that draws many fans.
The game is cultivated as a rich person's game, an integral part of high society. Clubs are
formed, and can charge expensive dues to members in order to maintain their exclusivity.
Polo riders wear protective gear, including helmets, knee pads, and occasionally shin guards.
They carry heavy mallets in order to hit the ball, and must protect both themselves and their
horses from an accidental hit. Horses wear boots on all legs, wraps, head bumpers, and
a breastcollar to keep the saddle from slipping.
The object is to hit the ball down the field and in between two goal posts. The opposing team
can steal the ball, block a hit, and attempt to make a goal of their own. Chukkars are timed,
and play usually does not stop during a chukkar even if a goal has been scored.
This fast paced play is the reason each
rider needs a string of horses, since one horse would tire after a few chukkars.
Polo horses have some distinctive grooming traits. Often their manes are roached, which means
they are shaved down to the neck so they don't interfere with the riders. Their tails are often
banged and tied up during a match so they don't catch on anything.
Their training is intense and rigorous, but
there is great demand for well trained polo horses at all levels. Retired polo horses can still
be used for younger riders at a lower level, or to teach beginners.
Polo has its greatest following in Britain and Europe, where even the monarchs often play. There
is also a great following in South America, with a smaller but fierce following in the US.
Polo is a fast paced sport played in periods
called chukkars. Two teams of three players each ride a string of different horses in each chukkar.
The horses can be from any breed, although many have thoroughbred blood for speed. 
It is this atmosphere that draws many fans.
The game is cultivated as a rich person's game, an integral part of high society. Clubs are
formed, and can charge expensive dues to members in order to maintain their exclusivity.
The object is to hit the ball down the field and in between two goal posts. The opposing team
can steal the ball, block a hit, and attempt to make a goal of their own. Chukkars are timed,
and play usually does not stop during a chukkar even if a goal has been scored.
This fast paced play is the reason each
rider needs a string of horses, since one horse would tire after a few chukkars.
Polo horses have some distinctive grooming traits. Often their manes are roached, which means
they are shaved down to the neck so they don't interfere with the riders. Their tails are often
banged and tied up during a match so they don't catch on anything.
Their training is intense and rigorous, but
there is great demand for well trained polo horses at all levels. Retired polo horses can still
be used for younger riders at a lower level, or to teach beginners.