Unbridled optimism at Calgary Polo Club
It’s business as usual at the Calgary Polo Club.
Despite being an exclusive sport, the current economy in our city doesn’t seem to have had an impact on this somewhat elitist past time.
The Calgary Polo Club was established in 1890 with its current location south of the city in DeWinton next door to Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School and as far as hobbies go, the sport is not cheap.
Richard Coté is the club president and in a recent interview with the CBC he said that the Club is always open to working with members. Retention is important to keep the rural facility up and running.
He also stressed the fact that there are ways to reduce the cost for both beginners and for the club’s elite players.
New members really need a pair of appropriate riding boots and with a few easy lessons they can get started. If someone gets into the swing of things and wants to pursue the game in earnest, they can rent a horse and share expenses with other players.
Playing Polo in Calgary
Like golf, polo can only be played seasonally. Memberships vary, starting at $1,260 to $5,545 for the season. However, there are costs on top of membership associated with the sport such as rentals, horse boarding, and association membership fees as well.
For those who like to simply watch the game, there are social memberships available which allows people to be spectators, enjoy organized dinners in the club house and to attend fundraising events.
The club facility
The Calgary Polo Club is set on 300 acres of beautiful land, making it one of the largest facilities of its kind in North America. There are 9 playing fields, an outdoor arena and barns with room for over 300 horses. The club is one of Canada’s finest, hosting several tournaments every year.
Professional instructors lead youth and adult lessons with leagues available for players of every age and ability.
Polo as Corporate Entertainment in Calgary
By way of introducing the sport to a new audience, the Calgary Polo Club offers corporate packages. Groups can attend an exhibition match and have a personal play-by-play as the game proceeds to fully understand and appreciate what’s happening on the field.
At the half-time mark, spectators are invited to join in the divot stomp, a very old tradition where clumps of turf kicked up by the ponies are stomped back into place on the field. It’s typically accompanied by a glass of champagne. There’s no trick to it and apparently, even the Queen participates when she attends a match.
After the game, groups can enjoy a delicious dinner in the Ranch House (club house). The Ranch House is also available for rent for other functions.