Newport Polo Club

by Vera Thornton

Newport International Polo Series
When: Saturdays in July & August at 5:00 p.m.
Where: Glen Farm, 715 East Main Road (Route 138), Portsmouth

I have always wanted to see a polo match. But although it was the first international sporting event in the world (if you don’t count the Olympics) it’s so out of the recreational mainstream that there aren’t that many opportunities to watch it. Well, now I have my chance! Newport is the international polo capital of the world, and each Saturday in the summer the Newport International Polo Club has matches that are open to the public. They take place at the historic 100-acre Glen Farm, with its classic stone barns and park-like grounds. This series attracts top rivals from all over the globe, and has been taking place since 1886. Tailgate picnics on the lawn are welcome, and there is also grandstand seating in General Admission. Think of the skill it takes to maneuver a powerful thundering horse with one hand, while you pound away with the mallet in the other - this is non-stop action!
Try the Shamrock Farm Inn for a perfect weekend getaway in lovely Portsmouth - it's a gracious country inn with an Irish theme and beautiful gardens, perfect for a polo retreat.

Tickets:
General Admission ~ $10/adult; children 15 & under/free
Tickets are sold at the entry gates, which open two hours prior to the start of the matches.



Asado Lamb Roast
When: Saturday, July 19 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Glen Farm, 715 East Main Road, Portsmouth

Following the 5:00 p.m. USA vs. Ireland polo match, a lamb roast will be held as a tribute to the Irish Polo Team, who have been participating since the international matches began. The Argentine tradition of spit-roasting lamb has become a part of polo culture since the Argentine players began dominating the sport in the 80's. The meat is slow-roasted for the ultimate tenderness, a satisfying delicacy after a hard-fought match. There is a cash bar, reservations are required, and tickets must be paid in advance by July 14th, so don't delay! Polo match tickets are sold separately at the gate.

Tickets for the Lamb Roast: $37.
For reservations and information please call (401) 847-7090.

The International Polo Series is sponsored, among others, by Pearls Boutique Hotels of Newport.

Photo Credit:
All photos courtesy of The Newport Polo Club.