St Moritz – Polo on the lake
The annual polo World Cup at St Moritz is certainly one of the most fascinating events I’ve ever witnessed.
For a start, there’s the car parking. To me there’s just something wrong with driving onto the lake to park, even if it has been certified as safe by the Swiss.
And those people selling roasted chestnuts with fires raging to generate heat – don’t they understand what they are standing on?
And then the temporary grandstands, packed with people – just how thick is this ice?
Perhaps that’s best answered by the fact that the tractors used to sweep the playing area are fitted with flotation devices. Just as a precaution of course.
I’m not sure whether the main event is watching the sport or the spectators. Fur coats and boots abound, and that’s just the men. The women are dressed to the nines, and there must be billions of dollars tied up in jewellery in the hospitality tents.
As always, the polo ponies are beautifully prepared and apparently the Argentine riders are quite fit too.
There are only four teams taking part, but there is no less rivalry for that. And as polo a sport that’s easy to understand, it makes a great day out for everyone.
The Cartier Cup takes place on January 24-27 on the lake. There is a small charge for parking but otherwise entrance is free. Grandstand tickets can be purchased for 40 CHF.
Photo: www.polostmoritz.com/en
2 Comments
Fab, never knew they played polo on ice.
They also have horse racing as well!