Horse sport rides into town

POLOCROSSE returned to Ballarat for the first time in twelve years when the 2022 Australian Polocrosse Nationals kicked off in town on Tuesday.

The program is ongoing until Sunday, 3 April, with more than 300 players and 600 horses taking part in matches at the Ballarat Polocrosse Ground in Mitchell Park.

This year marks the biannual tournament’s first outing since 2018, and state president of Polocrosse Australia Matt Morgan said players are eager to get back in the saddle.

“There’s a great interstate rivalry between our players, and everyone’s looking forward to catching up with their polocrosse extended family,” he said.

“There’s so much for everyone to look forward to. It’ll be non-stop action. There’ll be some great horsemanship on display with very athletic horses and people. They’re really the best of the best.”

As the name suggests, polocrosse is a hybrid sport combining the equine elements of polo, with the stick and basket carry of lacrosse.

Players range from 12-year-old juniors to masters over 50 competing for 36 teams.

Over 10,000 people attended the last Nationals tournament held in Ballarat in 2010, and similar numbers are expected for this year’s.

A livestream will be available via Vimeo, but Mr Morgan said the event will be “a big hoot” for those that come in person.

“Polocrosse games are not the only thing on offer. We’ve got food trucks, trade stores, different competitions, and entertainment every night,” he said.

“We’d love for everyone to come down, check out the beautiful horses, have a beer and a hot dog and enjoy themselves. It’ll be a great family day whichever day they decide to go on.”

The 2022 Australian Polocrosse Nationals is happening at 107 Airport Road, Mitchell Park, 3350, and tickets can be bought at the gates.

Single-day passes cost $10 with a weekly pass at $70, while a Monday-only ticket will cost $5 and children under 12 will enter free.