Polo returns to Fulham
Tuesday February 16, 2010
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Back by popular demand, world-class polo returns to Fulham this summer.
Polo in the Park will take place from Friday June 4 to Sunday June 6 at Hurlingham Park, the historic home of polo in this country.
Last year’s polo competition proved hugely popular with 93 per cent of residents who attended telling the council that the event was good or very good.
Grandstands will be temporarily erected in Hurlingham Park for the event so that thousands of spectators, including polo enthusiasts and those new to the sport, can watch the action over the three day period.
The council has negotiated extensive benefits with tournament organisers World Polo Ltd to ensure that both the park and local community benefit from this prestigious event. And to keep local people at the heart of the action this year, the council has ensured that 2,012 local people will be able to watch the action for free.
Polo In The Park 2009 brought significant improvements to Hurlingham Park including opening up and improving the quality of the sports pitches. World Polo Ltd will continue to invest in Hurlingham Park and maintain it to the highest standard for the benefit of residents and park users all year round.
The old cinder track will be removed so that the grassy areas can be extended. Additional improvements planned by the council include a resurfaced car park, a brand new natural play area, and improved quality tennis courts. World Polo will also donate sports equipment for schools and groups using the park.
As well as being looked after by the council’s award-winning grounds maintenance contractor, Quadron, the grass area of the park will be specially renovated both before and after the matches.
Cllr Paul Bristow, cabinet member for residents’ services, said: "I am delighted that Polo in the Park is returning to Hurlingham Park. One again, we have struck an excellent deal with the organisers. As well as a huge raft of improvements due to take place in the park, the event provides the opportunity for residents to watch a live spectacular sporting event in their local park. Last year’s Polo was enormously popular with local people and I am sure that this year’s event will be no different."
Rory Heron, CEO of World Polo said: "We have created a huge investment plan for Hurlingham Park over the past two years and sincerely hope that the local residents and community already see the benefit of this. Polo in the Park will feature a host of entertainment, from world-class polo, to medieval jousting, military displays, a kids zone and traditional food markets. We really hope to see you all there."
This year, to mark the forthcoming London Olympic Games, the council has negotiated 2,012 free grandstand tickets for borough residents. This compares to only 100 free and 250 discounted tickets last year. Details on how to apply are available at www.lbhf.gov.uk/polo .
In addition, there will also be a programme of discover polo days and a competition for school children to learn about the sport and the polo heritage of Hurlingham Park.
The council is also working to ensure that all clubs who may be inconvenienced during the week of polo are offered alternative locations. There will also be no disruption to school sports days.
You can purchase your tickets for Polo in the Park at www.ticketmaster.co.uk (opens new window). There is a special Early-Bird ticket offer on sale with Ticketmaster, with the special promotional code POLOEB, available until March 3 only. Ticket purchasers using this code will receive reduced ticket prices.
