Hallelujah! Sunday Polo is Back!
Aiken, South Carolina may be home to more than 40 polo fields, but its crown jewel is no doubt the Historic Whitney Field, the oldest polo field in continuous use in the country. Located in Aiken’s charming dirt road horse district, Whitney Field is where the Aiken Polo Club hosts its matches every fall.
As we rejoice the return of Sunday Polo this month, here’s everything you need to know to enjoy Sunday the Aiken way.
A spectator sport for all.
It may be “the Sport of Kings” and the favorite pastime of royals, but polo is fun for all. With an exciting combination of hockey, soccer and basketball played on a horse traveling 35 miles an hour, what’s not to love?
Big hats are optional.
Forget the stuffy polo scenes you’ve seen in the movies. You can dress up if you like, but here, polo is mostly a laid-back family affair where kids and even fur babies are welcome.
Flat shoes are a must.
One of the most celebrated traditions of polo is the Divot Stomp. At halftime, all spectators are invited to the field to help replace the divots kicked up by the horses’ hooves. This is a great time to mingle with the crowd. This is not a great time for your Jimmy Choos.
It’s all about the tailgate.
Whether you’re hopping from tent to tent or enjoying the festivities under the Pavilion, Sunday Polo is ultimately the best garden party around. You can get familiar with chukkers, goals, handicaps, and other polo terminology, but all you really need to know is your favorite drink order. Cheers!
The Willcox offers several Polo Packages to savor the season. Stay to watch a match or stay and play!
