Polo in the Country on Sept. 10

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Polo in the Country is a festive, fall Sunday afternoon for families and friends. It is held at the Norfolk Hunt Club Steeplechase Course, 240 North Street, Medfield. Gates open on September 10 at 11:00 a.m. Activities start at 12:15 p.m., and the polo match begins at 1:00 p.m.

Proceeds are used to benefit preserving and protecting the natural environment, open space, and recreational areas.

Matches between the two competing teams - Dedham Polo and the Norfolk Hunt Polo - have been an historical event since 1888. It’s exciting to play, very fast, and thrilling to watch. Teams will each have three riders and compete in a six chukka (seven minute period of time) game with a half-time break.

During half-time the parade of the Norfolk Hunt Club hounds is a tradition that all will enjoy. Under the leadership of Huntsman Heather Player the pack of hounds demonstrates amazing obedience, speed, and agility under her control with the assistance of whippers-in from the Norfolk Hunt Club.

Katie Robicheaux and Leonardo da Vinci (a fourteen-year old gelding) will be another feature, performing a freestyle demonstration of dressage choreographed to lively music. Katie, who is currently head dressage trainer at Cutler Farm in Medfield, was Champion in the Prix St. George East Coast Rider’s Cup and the Region 8 Fourth Level Open Champion.

Always a highlight of the day is the tailgate contest, with awards given to the top winner in four categories:

(1) Newcomers: For the winner who has never won before or never attended Polo in the Country but displays lots of cheer and enthusiasm;
(2) Horsin' Around: For funniest, most equine, and or most thoroughly done up. Attention to detail, humor, and style;
(3) Tailgate Master: The winner who is a Norfolk Hunt Club member or has won before, and has lots of enthusiasm; and
(4) Farm-to-Table: The tailgate that displays exquisite and delicious food, style, and detail.

There are plenty of things for children to do in addition to watching the polo game including pony rides, face painting, and the highly anticipated “candy toss” held at the end of the last chukka. Food and drinks are available on site.