A number of new, quite distinctive faces will be gracing Sandbanks beach in Poole at this year’s British Beach Polo Championships. Organisers of the event have announced that for the first time in Europe, four camels will take part in a polo match against each other when the Championships come to the south coast on the 9 / 10 July 2010. One camel is also set to take part in the annual charity race between a polo pony and a Mercedes G Class car.
The camels won’t be the only new features for long term fans of the event. Beach volleyball displays, a crèche for youngsters, dance shows, “have-a-go” polo for those who have never played before and increased hospitality and retail opportunities will all be added to the usual mix of celebrities, parties and, of course, polo.
Sandpolo head, Johnny Wheeler, says; “This is the third year that the British Beach Polo Championships are coming to Sandbanks and we’re so excited about all the new elements we’re bringing to the table. Of course, the polo is going to be of a very high standard as usual, and that should be really exciting. But for those who are not yet hooked on the sport, we’ll also have a range of fantastic activities to keep people of all ages and interests entertained.”
As always, part of the money raised at the event will go towards local charities, including the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Dorset children’s hospice, Julia’s House and the Heaton Ellis Trust for Motor Neurone Disease.
Sponsors who have already been confirmed for the event include Mercedes, Lloyds Property, Gaucho, Hotel Du Vin, Priva, Pommery and Camino Polo.
An important part of the whole weekend is the evening parties, which will be organised this year by Mwah! Event Management and Priva. A hub for celebrities to gather and have a good time, Saturday night’s party will be hosted by former model, jewellery designer and DJ, Jade Jagger.
International model, polo aficionado, and regular attendee of the British Beach Polo Championships, Jodie Kidd, said; “I see the British Beach Polo Championships as being one of the premier sporting and social events of the year, so I always enjoy coming down. It’s got a great atmosphere with so much to see and do.
“In addition, it’s an absolutely stunning location, which brings in players and people from all over the world. This polo event is going from strength to strength”.
For more information about the Beach Polo visit www.sandpolo.com.