Hoof it to the polo

By Jessica Howard

Polo enthusiasts are gearing up for one of the biggest local tournaments of the competition season.

The Colliers International Ballarat Cup, held at the Yaloak Polo Club in Ballan, is expected to see around 1000 spectators this Sunday February 12.

Yaloak Polo Club rider, Peter Evans said the event had been running for more than 30-years and doubled as a popular day out for the whole family.

“It will be a full day of polo matches, kids pony rides, jumping castles and fully catered marquees,” he said.

“It has a real family-type environment so it’s a day suited to everyone”.

Mr Evans said the day would comprise of six polo matches, with four “chukkas” (divisions) lasting seven minutes each.

“Polo is very exciting and fast,” he said.

“It is a sport that is over 400-years-old and one that demonstrates the athleticism of both the horse and the rider”.

A special celebrity event will also see a number of big names go head-to-head in a jockey verses trainer match, including 2015 Melbourne Cup winning jockey and now horse trainer, Michelle Payne.

The fast paced event will see gates open from 11am at the Yaloak Polo Club, Geelong-Ballan Road, 10-kms south from the Western Highway Junction, Ballan.

General admission is $10 per person, with VIP tailgate parking $125 per car. Refreshments available for purchase with children under 12 free.

For more information, visit www.yaloakpolo.com.au or call Peter Evans on 0412 260 555.