Polocrosse is often called 'the poor
man's polo' since riders usually ride the same horse for the entire game. It hails from
Australia, and has found a growing following among Pony Clubbers in the US.
Any horse or pony from any breed can play, so the sport has much more of a down to earth
feel for regular people. There are only a few dozen clubs across the US, so new players
who do not have one close by can form their own and join the APA (American Polocrosse
Association).
Play is similar to polo, with two teams of three riders attempting to score goals at either
end of a field that is larger than a football field.
In polocrosse, players carry racquets
similar to lacrosse racquets, and can bend down and scoop up the ball. They can throw and catch
with other team members, while the opposing team attempts to intercept the ball or knock it
out of their racquets. One player, the designated scorer, must try to throw the ball into the goal
while the designated goalie on the other team tries to block them. Because the players can carry
the ball, there are lines that run at either end of the field that players must try to bounce
and catch the ball when they cross over.
Polocrosse horses are outfitted similarly to polo horses, with wraps and boots on all legs and
a breastcollar to keep the saddle from slipping. Riders wear helmets, often with face masks to protect
them from being hit with the ball.
Play does not stop during the periods in polocrosse, called chukkas. Even after a goal is scored,
the ball is quickly thrown back into play from midfield and play continues. Play does not stop
if a rider drops their racquet or falls from their horse unless they are hurt and need medical
attention.
Polocrosse is often called 'the poor
man's polo' since riders usually ride the same horse for the entire game. It hails from
Australia, and has found a growing following among Pony Clubbers in the US.
In polocrosse, players carry racquets
similar to lacrosse racquets, and can bend down and scoop up the ball. They can throw and catch
with other team members, while the opposing team attempts to intercept the ball or knock it
out of their racquets. One player, the designated scorer, must try to throw the ball into the goal
while the designated goalie on the other team tries to block them. Because the players can carry
the ball, there are lines that run at either end of the field that players must try to bounce
and catch the ball when they cross over.