polo sa autumn 2011

A rising stAr of polo

the pros of polo

pAtronAge

BMW horsepoWer

lArger thAn life At the

J&B Met

Colourful pAssion in

fAshion

POLOsA

the gAMe. the life.

AutuMn 2011

o f f i C i A l l y e n d o r s e d B y t h e s o u t h A f r i C A n p o l o A s s o C i A t i o n

r25.00 incl. vAt

LorenziPoloSA.indd 1 05/11/2010 10:48

0 8 P O L O S A

From the horse’s mouth

10 Ed’s note

11 Subscribe to Polo SA and win

12 SAPA Executive Director’s forewordClive Peddle welcomes you

48 Offshore investment risksOur resident financial columnist gives us the low-down

50 The final whistleGuest columnist: Zane Henry

warm up

14 Highlights, news and upcoming fixturesRyk Neethling launches his wine at Val de Vie, equestrian lovers don blue and white for the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate, and all the most important dates to diarise for the upcoming months

32 Close to homeAll the local clubs and their contact details

34 The South African Polo AssociationThe latest handicaps

game–plan

22 BMW horsepowerThe clash of the titans at the BMW International

24 A family affairAn intimate polo tournament provides a relaxing day of sporting entertainment

26 Behind every great playerThe pros and pros of polo patronage

28 Coach’s cornerFor the love of the horse

30 The rising star of poloPolo SA grabs a few minutes with the man of the moment, Tom de Bruin

20

38C O N T E N T S

16the liFestyle

16 Big hats and bigger personalitiesThe annual J&B Met provided a wealth of eye-candy and plenty to talk about

18 Polo PanacheOur list of must-haves for spending an afternoon on the edge of a polo field

38 Moody huesCountry living and colourful emotions combine forces in our fashion spread

44 Utilise and accessoriseCelebrating the cornerstones of any ensemble – shoes and bags

46 Seeing greenPierre Cronje tells us why it’s so important to be environmentally responsible

a u T u m N 2 0 1 1 E d i T i O N

autumn

On the cOverPhotographer: Minette De Villiers

Stylist: Crystal Birchhair and make-up: Henry Maritz

Models: Noel from Moda Model Management and Frieda from Ice Models

Noel wears a white and blue micro striped shirt and jeans with a navy jacket, all by Ben Sherman. Watch by Tag

Heuer, belt by Pringle and shoes by Cole Haan. Frieda wears a shirt and khaki chinos by Pringle with a scarf by

Lulu Belle, handbag by Jimmy Choo and boots by Carvela.

46

22

CAP E TOWN SHOP 7221, VICTORIA WHARF SHOPPING CENTRE, V&A WATERFRONT, TEL +27 (0)21 418 8506 WWW.JIMMYCHO O.COM

The year has gotten off to a fantastic start in terms of sportsmanship.

We’re only a quarter of the way into 2011, and already we can hold our

heads high as a nation of capable sportsmen and women. And perhaps

one sporting success influences another, and a tone has been set.

Shortly after the boys in green and gold emerged victorious at the BMW

International against India, there were some admirable performances on

the cricket pitch by some of our other boys in green and gold as well,

sending the Indian hosts of the ICC Cricket World Cup back to the locker

room with their tails between their legs.

But getting back to polo, and more specifically, Polo SA, we have a wealth of rivet-

ing reads in the following pages. We have opened our stable doors to welcome

other aspects of the equestrian world into the realm of polo, and we’ve marked

this development with a feature on the J&B Met (p 16), which took place in

January at the Kenilworth Racecourse. But don’t worry, we haven’t neglected our

main focus. In case you missed the magnificent match at the BMW International,

we give you a blow-by-blow match report that will make you feel like you were

there (p 22). We also discuss the benefits of polo patronage on page 26 and chat

to a rising star of polo, Tom de Bruin on page 30. Of course all the regulars are

here, from Coach’s Corner by the Polo SA resident coach, John Lister (p 28) to all

the latest contact details (p 32) for you local polo clubs, and of course the latest

list of handicaps (p 34).

But as you know, polo is just as much about the lifestyle as it is about the sport

itself, so we’ve taken it upon ourselves to enlighten you on what you’ll require in

order to enjoy the lifestyle in the glamour it deserves, as if you didn’t already know.

The Polo Panache pages are choc-a-block with fashion and lifestyle must-haves

from ready-to-wear and high fashion to home décor and beauty (from p 18). Our

fashion spread, which was shot on the charming Diemersfontein Wine & Country

Estate, is to-die-for and features all the latest in autumn fashions (from p 38). And

because no ensemble is complete without an accessory or three, our Polo Style

page tells you what’s hot this season (p 44).

So here’s to the game, and the life.

P O LO S A M Ag A z i n eeditor Zoë Henry • Copy editor Lauren

O’Donnell • editorial Assistant Carla Henkel • Creative Director Annalie

Boshoff • Art Director Mark Rust • Designers Minette De Villiers

& Rustum Carelse • general Assistant David Hermanus

QuAntuM PubLiSherS (Pty) LtDDirector Ian Foster

ADvertiSing/SALeS Sales Manager Irene Greyvenstein

tel: 021 701 0064 email: [email protected]

For subscriptions, please contact Robyn Foster on tel: 021 701 0064

or email: [email protected]

Printed by Paarl Media Paarl. The Polo SA Magazine is produced by Quantum Publishers (Pty) Ltd (Reg. No 1976/001153/07). The views and opinions expressed herein, are not necessarily those of the Publishers. While reasonable precautions have been taken to establish the accuracy of the advice and information contained herein, the Editor and the Publishers cannot accept responsibility for any misfortune, injury or damages which may arise therefrom. Copyright reserved. Unauthorised reproduction in whole or part of any contents of the Polo SA Magazine is prohibited. Manuscripts, artwork, colour transparencies and other materials submitted to the Polo SA Magazine are sent at the owner’s own risk. The Polo SA Magazine, its Publishers and Paarl Media Paarl cannot accept any responsibility for loss or damage.

e d ’ s n o t e

1 0 P O L O S A

Honour lies in the mane of a

horse.Herman melville

ZOË HENRYEditor

stockists• LOuIS VuITTON

+27 11 784 9854/+27 21 405 9700www.louisvuitton.com

• HOuSE Of fASHION +27 21 422 4479www.houseoffashion.co.za

• STuTTAfORdS+27 11 879 1000www.stuttafords.co.za

• WATCH ANd JEWELLERY GALLERY+27 11 784 2587

• AfRICAN ROMANCE+27 11 384 5600

• HHOHHO VALLEY+27 84 411 1234

• HAAS +27 21 422 4413

• SpILHAuS+27 21 486 2800www.spilhaus.co.za

• SuNGLASS HuT+27 21 486 6200www.sunglasshut.co.za

• EquESTRIAN AffAIR+27 21 794 6498

• JIMMY CHOO+27 21 441 3800

• NINA ROCHE+27 21 421 8784www.ninaroche.co.za

• TuMI +27 21 419 4253

• SpITZ+27 11 707 7300

Lauren de BeerLauren has had a lifelong passion for horses and is a Johannesburg-based freelance journalist specialising in equestrian sports such as polo, showjumping, eventing and horseracing. She has covered numerous events for newspapers and magazines in the UK and South Africa.

John ListerJohn made a name for himself as a pony and speed event instructor early in his polo career. His wealth of knowledge has grown from years of playing, coaching and retraining ‘problem’ horses, and he is passionate about sharing that knowledge. John is a staunch advo-cate of adequately training grooms.

Kevin Goss-rossKevin is a freelance photographer currently residing in the sleepy city of Durban, trying to finish his BTech degree at the Durban University of Technology. Kevin likes Malva pudding, whisky, metal and thunderstorms and is known to be at his happiest when enjoying all four of these things at once in the company of his gor-geous girlfriend.

ivan naudé Johannesburg based photographer Ivan Naudé is passionate about portrait work and capturing the essence of who his subjects truly are – which is why he’s still doing it after 30 years.

Minette de viLLiersMinette is a photographer and designer who strives to see beauty in the world, even when it proves to be a challenge. Luckily she lives in Cape Town, so finding this beauty is both possible and fun. When she’s not photographing things, she is eating watermelon and watching musicals.

Brian BéchetAfter heading up one of South Africa’s leading private banks, Brian started his own boutique private client business in 2002, specialising in managing investment portfolios for a select group of private cli-ents. The business also assists clients with income tax, estate plan-ning, deceased estates and trust administration.

Zane henryZane is an entertainment writer who, when he’s not at the theatre, is scrambling to meet deadlines for the Argus. Eighties rapper Vanilla Ice once threatened to throw him off a balcony. Zane lives in Cape Town with his lovely wife and even lovelier dog.

dieMersfontein Wine & country estateVisitors to South Africa’s Western Cape will discover a warm welcome and a tranquil and gracious setting at Diemersfontein Wine and Country Estate. There are a range of guesthouse accommodations available, which are set against a backdrop of some of the most dramatic views in the Cape winelands. This stunning setting pro-vided the location for our country living-inspired fashion spread.

contr ibutors

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there are few

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as more esteemed

than soPhistication,

and this is some–

thing that it shares

with bvlgari man.

To take advantage of this amazing offer, contact Robyn Foster on +27 21 701 0064 or email [email protected].

Polo is more than just a pleasurable pastime. Everyone who climbs into the saddle – and even those who simply observe from the sidelines – knows that a passion for polo goes beyond just the field of play and extends into all aspects of life. Polo SA speaks to those who love polo and live the polo lifestyle.

And BVLGARI MAN, unprece-dented icon and new ambas-sador of the Bulgari men’s universe, shares in this quest for sophistica-tion. It is a luminous and sensual fragrance; inspired by an unedit-ed vision of natural elegance it represents the absolute declara-tion of masculinity and innate charisma.

In celebration of this common interest

BVLGARI MAN, together with Polo SA, is giving away

a 60ml BVLGARI MAN Eau De Toilette. Simply sign up for a

year’s subscription of Polo SA at the discounted price of R75

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F R O M T H E H O R S E ’ S M O U T H

1 2 P O L O S A

With the festive season now a distant memory and Easter fast approaching, polo players can look forward to some exciting events and plenty of polo on the domestic front. Most of the country has been blessed with good summer rains, rendering playing surfaces in excellent condition for the 2011 season. Plettenberg Bay suffered as a result of too much rain – something all but the tournament organiser relished in view of the recent drought. Good playing surfaces will galvanise players into early season practices, weather permitting, and there is eagerness amongst the players to get going.

Following in the footsteps of the recent Indian cricket tour, was the visit by a 14-goal Indian

team who played South Africa at the picturesque Val de Vie Polo Estate. A similar side

toured New Delhi during November last year and were narrowly defeated at the hands of

the Indians, so revenge was very much in the minds of the South Afican team as they

claimed the trophy. Our long time sponsors BMW again hosted the event as title sponsors,

and the Association cannot emphasise its gratitude enough to BMW for their ongoing

support of the ‘sport of kings’.

Moving away from the playing field, the Association has been proactive in employing

the services of a strategy consultant to map out a five year plan for polo in this country.

Many wonderful ideas emanated from the strategy meeting as a direct result of a survey

returned from the playing members. This has given the polo administrators a clear indica-

tion of what the members feel is required to improve the sport. Interestingly enough, the

point which consistently came out tops was the need to grow polo in South Africa, and

thereby achieve financial stability.

Polo is often seen as an elitist sport played by wealthy businessmen and frequented

only by the ‘mink and manure’ rich. This needs urgent attention if the sport is to grow, and

it is our aim to attract more people to the game. Granted, it is an expensive sport, but there

are ways and means of making it more affordable to the public. SAPA will be working hard

on this as well as improving the public’s image and perception of polo. Polo is a family sport

with many of South Africa’s top players coming through the ranks of the club systems –

something that needs to be nurtured and maintained if the sport is to survive and grow.

In closing, we look forward to yet another exciting season with polo and sportsman-

ship being the winner.

To m e ,hors e s a n d

f r e e d o m a r e s y non y m o u s

Veryl GoodniGht

Phot

ogra

ph b

y: Iv

an N

audé

foreword

ClivE PEddlEE x E c u t i v E D i r E c to r

s o u t h a f r i c a n p o lo a s s o c i at i o n

1 4 P O L O S A

warm upUPCOMING FIXTURES,

NEWS, SNIPPETS AND MORE

SChMOOzING WITh KING LOUISThe who’s who in South African publishing gathered at the breathtaking Ellerman House in Bantry Bay, Cape Town for a light lunch, a little bubbly, a lot a schmoozing, and of course, to welcome Louis Vuitton’s new leather range into the South African fashion scene. The attendees were almost as beautiful as the products being showcased, which all exuded the style and class that Louis Vuitton has become synonymous with.

STRICTLy bLUE AND WhITEEveryone in the equestrian world knows that the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate kicks off the year in timeless elegance. Those lucky enough to attend the event rubbed shoulders with local celebrities such as Natalie Becker, Jo-Ann Strauss, Liezel van der Westhuizen, and Graeme Smith. And if you count yourself in the minority who were actually there for the races, the horses gave us all a run for our money with a magnificent win by Mother Russia who claimed victory over Pocket Power, and a cameo appearance by horse-racing celebrity, Horse Chestnut.

hAPPy FIRST bIRThDAyChampagne flutes were charged as the Inanda Club’s Youth and Novice Polo School celebrated its first birthday in true style. From humble begin-nings, the school now boasts more than 35 stu-dents, varying from young boys and girls from the age of nine to teenagers and adults. Paul Oosthuizen, General Manager at the Inanda Club said, “We are all incredibly proud of how well the school has done over the past year, and it is thanks to the passion and dedication of its Manager, Craig James. The Inanda Club, with its strong equestrian heritage, is firmly behind the develop-ment of polo and its growth at the Club and throughout Africa.”

Papama Mtwisha, Craig Jacobs and Sbu Mpungose

Anita Olckers and Vanessa Haywood

Peta and Jen Su

Liezel van der Westhuizen, Nicola Breytenbach and Roxy Louw

Poppy Evans, Susra Morkel and Leila Peterson Gallant

Magdalena Szulfer, Robyn Cooke and Priscila Monteiro

A student at the Polo school

S e v e n - a n d - a - h a l f m i n u t e S

Upcoming fixtUres

April01 Apr - 03 Apr Bloemfontein 01 Apr - 03 Apr East Rand 02 Apr - 10 Apr Plettenberg Bay Polo (12 Goal) 02 Apr - 10 Apr Plettenberg Bay Polo (2 Goal) 02 Apr - 10 Apr Plettenberg Bay Polo (6 Goal) 08 Apr - 10 Apr Cape Champs at Kurland (6 & 2 Goal) 08 Apr - 10 Apr Harrismith 08 Apr - 10 Apr Kynoch Cup at Kokstad 08 Apr - 10 Apr Otto`s Bluff 11 Apr - 17 Apr Pre Easter Tournament (12 Goal) 11 Apr - 17 Apr Pre Easter Tournament (2 Goal) 11 Apr - 17 Apr Pre Easter Tournament (6 Goal) 15 Apr - 17 Apr Free State Champs at Sparta (12, 4 & 0 Goal) 18 Apr - 24 Apr Easter Tournament (15 Goal) - Plettenberg Bay 18 Apr - 24 Apr Easter Tournament (2 Goal) - Plettenberg Bay 18 Apr - 24 Apr Easter Tournament (8 Goal) - Plettenberg Bay 22 Apr - 24 Apr Kokstad (8 Goal) 29 Apr - 01 May East Griqualand Champs at Zwartberg (16+, 8 & 0 Goal) 29 Apr - 01 May Hammonia

MAy06 May - 08 May Crocodile Creek 06 May - 08 May Underberg High Goal (20, 10, 4 & 0 Goal) 13 May - 15 May Natal Champs at Mooi River (12, 4 & 0 Goal) 20 May - 22 May Highveld Champs at East Rand (12, 4 & 0 Goal) 20 May - 22 May Bethlehem 27 May - 29 May Inter-Provincial Tournament at East Rand

June03 Jun - 05 Jun Bergville 10 Jun - 12 Jun Karkloof Classic (12 Goal) 17 Jun - 19 Jun Lions River (12 Goal) 27 Jun - 30 Jun SAPA Junior Coaching Clinic at Jurassic Park

While these dates were correct at the time of printing, they are subject

to change. Please check www.sapolo.org.za for updates.

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 1 5

S e v e n - a n d - a - h a l f m i n u t e S

mastering the african frontierThe Veuve Clicquot Masters will take place in South Africa for the first time this year. The event will be held at the picturesque Val de Vie Wine & Polo Estate on Sunday 17 April. Set to become a jewel in the South African Polo Season, the Veuve Clicquot Masters will bring a new level of polo event to South Africa. Veuve Clicquot, who already has a long history internationally with the ‘sport of kings’, will for the first time spon-sor a South African polo event. With renowned international events like the Manhattan Classic (USA), and the Gold Cup (UK) in its programme, the South African Veuve Clicquot Masters will be the latest event to join Veuve Clicquot’s international polo calendar. Expect a riveting polo tournament, glamorous people, elegant food, fine champagne and wines, and great music and entertainment. Tickets are available through Computicket. A general access ticket will cost you R350, which includes a bottle of wine and light lunch on arrival. A VIP will cost you R950, and provides access to the VIP Lounge (all inclusive).

polo, wine and swimmersRyk Neethling’s very own wine launched at the exquisite Val de

Vie Wine & Polo Estate on Friday 11 February. The sophisti-cated black-tie affair was sponsored by BlackBerry, while Glenfiddich, Val de Vie Wine and Tag Heuer ensured that the ‘Whisky – Wine – Watches’ theme was upheld. Upon arrival, guests gathered on the exquisite Polo Pavilion where they enjoyed an exciting game of polo as the sun set behind the Simonsberg Mountains. Italian-style canapés and a selec-tion of Val de Vie’s signature wines kept guests satisfied

throughout the evening. The much-anticipated Ryk Neethling Wine was unveiled during Ryk’s speech in which he enthused

guests with his passion for the Val de Vie Estate, which he will call home later this year.

Ryk Neethling

Nico and Christi Panagio

Malcolm Kluk and Christiaan Gabriel Du Toit

Big hats and bigger personalities

words By Zoë Henry

J & B M e t

1 6 P O L O S A

Phot

ogra

phs

cour

tesy

of G

allo

Imag

es

Past Master making a dash for the finish line

All the usuAl suspects were there At

this yeAr’s J&B Met – outlAndish out–

fits, locAl celeBrities And… oh yes, the

horses. hidden AMongst All the glitz

And glAM, there wAs soMe equestriAn

splendour, And A few surprises.

It was a sweltering day in Cape Town as the charcoal dust from the racetrack clung to the pairs of Jimmy Choos and Christian Louboutins which sashayed through the main entrance. Everyone keenly looked around at everyone else’s sartorial creations. There were hats stay-ing true to the theme being ‘larger than life’, while other attendees had chosen to use their bodies as the main contributor to the theme by wearing tiny top hats and other accessories. Many went all out, as usual at the annual J&B Met, but of course there were those that were a cut above the rest.

Somewhere in the midst of the haute couture sat-urated grounds we managed to find a counter at which to acquire a gin and tonic, and a spot of shade in which to relax until the races started. Luckily the fashionistas provided a wealth of eye candy during the wait. Celebrities sauntered past in gorgeous creations: media personality Natalie Becker indulged in the colour purple with her fabulous ensemble by Richard Huisamen from Hip Hop, complete with a matching headpiece, while Top Billing’s Jo-Ann Strauss looked smoking hot in a full-length red number. But it wasn’t only the

ladies who brought their A-game. Chester Williams looked positively larger than life donning a silky lime-green and sky-blue suit paired with white shoes, and Marc Lottering kept things casu-al but classy in a candy-striped blazer and jeans.

Many of the non-celebrity folk were also visions to behold as those under consideration for the best dressed enjoyed their 15 minutes of fame. The contestants paraded their creations up and down the stage while the celebrity judges – Michael Mol, Ryk Neethling, Jeannie D, Jo-Ann Strauss, Roxy Louw, YFM twins Hlelo and Ntando Masina and Roland Jonathan of J&B – carefully considered their verdict. After much deliberation a choice was made, although it must’ve been a difficult one. The crown went to Brazilian couple Landerson Braga and Marianne Fonseca – she wore a printed maxi dress in the J&B colours, while he was dressed to match in a dapper, Victorian-inspired ensemble appropriately topped off with a top hat.

And of course the horses also played a part at the iridescent affair. The show was stolen in a real Cinderella story by four-year-old gelding Past Master, who surprised racing enthusiats and acci-dental viewers alike by claiming the title. The old favourites, Mother Russia and Run For It, came in second and third respectively. However, there was a somewhat sobre tone at the event as champion Pocket Power, who didn’t place at the race, bid his final farewell to his fans. Three cheers for Pocket Power – he had a good run. n

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 1 7

J & B M E T

A groom leads in Past Master

Celebrity judges Jo-Ann Strauss and Michael Mol

Comedians Kurt Schoonraad and Marc Lottering with their partners, Katrin Bohlender and Anwar McKay

Media personality Natalie Becker

P O L O P A N A C H E

There can be Only OneThe vast selection of apparel available at Nicole Morris’s House Of Fashion, under the Only One banner, are all limited-range garments that are procured overseas. Morris’s

rare surplus garments are available to an invitation-only fashion club. An Only One invitation gives the recipient the incomparable experience of being tailor-dressed in

the House Of Fashion, live design studio, in an exclusive one of a kind item. House Of Fashion provides its clients with an exclusive shopping experience that makes

each patron look and feel as special as they are. For more information on how to become a member of this elite club,

visit www.houseoffashion.co.za or phone +27 21 422 4479.

If The chOO fITsFollowing the success of CHOO 24:7 the ‘perfect shoe wardrobe’, this timeless cap-sule collection extends now from shoes and boots and into bags, making this line a complete lifestyle offering firmly instated in the Jimmy Choo wardrobe lexicon. A definitive assortment of iconic Jimmy Choo shoes and boots, perfect for day to evening, 7 days a week. Available at Jimmy Choo stores countrywide.

WheTher The leaTher be fIneBoth Louis Vuitton and the term ‘savoir-faire leather goods’ concoct images of timeless style and afflu-ence. So it makes good sense that the two have united to unveil the Louis Savoir-Faire Leather Goods range. Leather goods craftsmanship has actually been part of the Louis Vuitton dynasty for generations spanning a century and a half of expertise. Having begun as a trunk maker in 1854, Louis Vuitton chose to adapt to evolving methods of transportation, thus provoking him to grow his business from trunks to supple luggage. Today, as in the past, Louis Vuitton prides itself in preserving tradition and heritage while continuing its quest towards creation and innovation in all aspects of its savoir-faire, and the results are must-have accessories with eternal pertinence. Available at Louis Vuitton stores nationwide.

POLO PANACHE

everyThIng yOu need TO

lOOk and feel yOur besT bOTh

On and Off The fIeld

1 8 P O L O S A

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 1 9


Keeping up with the timesThe master watchmakers of Patek Philippe have coaxed sono-rous tones from timepieces as far back as 1845. Since then, Patek Philippe wristwatches with chimes have been cherished by collectors. By pushing back the frontiers of the watchmakers art, the firm has also introduced minute repeaters with a tourbil-lion and a perpetual calendar – and with the Reference 5033, combined for the first time an Annual Calendar mechanism to create the innovative Caliber R 27 PS QA. This is one of the most complex movements made by Patek Philippe, comprising a total of 483 parts. Housed in a 38mm platinum case with gold applied hour markers, the Reference 5033 wristwatch is deliv-ered in two case backs, one in solid platinum and the other in sapphire crystal. Available exclusively at The Watch and Jewellery Gallery in Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton, Johannesburg. For more information please visit www.patek.com or call +27 11 784 2587.

me and my CalvinsCalvin Klein has been at the forefront of global trendsetting for dec-ades, and their latest Spring 2011 ad campaign for ck one follows suit. It will be the largest digital initiative in the company’s history to date, and the hub of the campaign will be the newly launched ckone.com, which has been designed as the designated destination for all con-sumers and fans to personally experience the brand and learn more about the lifestyle, products, campaign and featured talent.

Interactive, user-based experiences will be a key component of all aspects of the campaign. In addition to the interactive video content featured on the site, ckone.com users will be able to generate their own content and create conversations around it via social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, making this content viewable and shareable with friends and fans globally. Users will be able to view and share pro-files of the campaign cast members, answer rotating prompts based on questions posed by the cast, and even create, upload, and tag their own videos on the site, thus becoming part of the campaign. User generated content will not be separated from the cast content, but will rather be positioned alongside the cast videos. The site will be available in 11 languages and have a global retail store and e-commerce locator.

pamper

perfeCtionAdd a little luxury to your day with Molton

Brown Bath & Shower Gel. Choose from a range of delicious fragrances such as Paradisiac Pink

Pepperpod, Warming Eucalyptus and a variety of other equally fragrant treats. Then after a good long soak, replen-

ish your skin with Molton Brown Body Lotions, Hydrators and Creams. Their collection will leave your skin moisturised

and silky smooth. Also available in a variety of fresh and moreish fragrances, like Re-charge Black Pepper, Relaxing

Yuan Zhi and many others, they will leave you feeling properly pampered. For best results, use after Molton

Brown Bath & Shower Gels to start or end a per-fect day. Great for any skin type.

animal instinCtThis season, as the air gets crisper and cooler, the catwalks are featuring anything animal print, including sunglasses. So let out your animal side and be on trend this autumn with these gorgeous animal print sunglasses from Sunglass Hut. They will give the edge to any outfit you pair them with. There’s no need to blend into the surroundings when being seen on the edge of a polo field. Create your own occasion and put a look together that will get the attention you deserve. Both are by Dolce & Gabbana and are available at Sunglass Hut for R2 300 each.


2 0 P O L O S A

Be romantic, african styleIt’s true that diamonds are forever, so why not attain this timelessness in the most responsible and sophisticated way possible? Since its inception, African Romance has made a commitment to deal with the need for local beneficiation of the continent’s raw precious minerals and metals into diamonds and fine jewellery. Their rough diamonds are purchased locally from 100% conflict free and accountable companies and are polished by local employees into some of the world’s best diamonds. Over 60% of their diamonds are certified as GIA excellent cut grades, one of the highest excel-lent cut grade production ratios in the world. After the diamonds are cut, the jewellery designers design and manufacture some of the finest jewellery in the world, all with a distinct African flavour, and a true connection to its African Heritage. Following the success of their recent boutique opening at the exclusive Sandton Eye and Rosebank in Johannesburg, they will be opening a further boutique in OR Tambo airport this autumn. For more information visit www.africanromance.com or call +27 11 384 5600.

showcasing their repertoire

The dress code ‘semi-formal’ can be ambiguous at best, and downright panic inducing at worst. But your days of stressing about what to wear when ‘semi-formal’ appears on your invitation are over, because Repertoire caters to

that very requirement. This leading occasion wear brand is now available at Stuttafords South Africa,

and it puts the fun back into dressing up. Elegance is effortless in this stand-out col-

lection that steals attention and demands to be noticed. Created specif-

ically for weddings and other special occasions – such as important polo

events, Repertoire represents ensemble dressing where the col-

lection is cleverly paired through the interchange of texture, colour and details. The Autumn / Winter

2011 collection presents an eclectic mix of rich textures and opulent hues.

Available at selected Stuttafords stores countrywide.

aesthetic utilityWhen shopping for accessories, one often has to make the choice between aesthetically pleasing and easily utilised. There are very few items that check both boxes, but luckily these stylish equestrian themed accessories do. This handbag will turn heads on the side of the polo field, as well as providing a spacious interior to keep all those ‘must-haves’, such as sunglasses, an SPF moisturiser and lipstick. And these cowboy- inspired belts will add a “Yee-hah!” aspect to any ensemble, whether you’re putting the finishing touches on a pair of jeans, cowboy boots and Stetson, or adding a dash of quirkiness to a Grecian-style frock. Available at Equestrian Affair at High Constantia Shopping Centre, Cape Town. For more information visit www.equestrianaffair.co.za or call +27 21 794 6498.

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 2 1


Blanket effectHhohho Valley’s weaving is an expres-sion of living authentically. Each item is hand-made and fashioned by the hands of a Hhohho artist. Scarves, throws, and blankets in rich misty rusts and camphor greens burst of decadent wild floral, vibrating amongst hues of tropical fruit. These garments reflect the Valley’s moun-tains, meadows, and rivers in their soft sumptuous weaves. They are woven using the finest mohair, silk, cashmere, and alpaca, and are all organic and original. An eCatelogue is available from [email protected] and goods are delivered globally. For more information call +27 84 411 1234.Scent-Sational

The perfect embellishment to any ensemble is a delectable scent. We have picked our favourites for him and her, both of which are certain to prick up noses while watching a polo game. Bleu de Chanel is a fragrance for him that possesses soft aromas of cit-rus fruits accompanied by peppermint, pink pepper and nutmeg. A variety of undertones round off the aroma. L’Eau d’Issey Florale is the epitome of femininity as it opens up with a breath of a budding rose. Its simplicity is its elegance. A new floral alchemy is born from its encounter with yellow ginger lily, a note chosen for its luminous orange blossom accents. The softness of this very floral heart is enhanced by the sparkling, crystalline notes of mandarin orange and unveiled by the depth of white woods.

it ’S a way of lifeFor those that appreciate the finer things in life, Spilhaus has a wide variety of ordinary household items that have made the leap to extraordinary. Whether you are looking for innovative design or exclusive materials, the products available at Spilhaus deliver both in abundance. Imagine starting off the day by sipping your detoxing tea from a Versace cup. And when the time arrives for sundowners, these ‘His & Hers’ bottle openers from Italian designer Alessandro Mendini will add a touch of whim to any bar area, while these crystal goblets will make whoever is drinking from them feel like royalty, which is somewhat appropriate when watching the ‘sport of kings’. All products available at Spilhaus. For more information visit www.spilhaus.co.za or call +27 21 486 2800.

BMW horsepower

B M W I n t e r n a t I o n a l

2 2 P O L O S A

Words by Zoë Henry

PHotograPHs by Werner ryke

Polo matches, especially the larger tournaments, have become just as much about the socialising and celebrity spot-ting as about the ‘sport of kings’ itself. The outskirts of the polo field have become the place to be seen holding a glass of bubbly and donning a breathtak-ing ensemble. But the clash of India and South Africa was so breathtaking that it left most sartorially creative collections in the dust.

The afternoon begins like most others spent on the side of a polo field. The Cape Winelands’ sun is beating down in its characteristically unmerciful fashion as the guests meander lazily from their seats to the bar and back again, picking up a few Indian-themed canapés on the way. The beautiful people get a chance to ogle at beautiful cars as BMW has put on a spread of their latest models. Auto aficionados brave the harsh African sun in order to sneak a peak under the hood and brush their fingertips against the lush leather upholstery. Finally the guests start making their way to their seats for the match and settle down for a dash of spice, Indian style.

The players and ponies make their way onto

elegance and

dignified demeanours

are kicked to tHe curb

at caPe toWn’s Val de

Vie as Polo entHusiasts

and socialites alike get

caugHt uP in tHe excite–

ment of tHe game.

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 2 3

B M W I n t e r n a t I o n a l

the field to the epic soundtrack that is traditional at Val de Vie. The national anthems are played, and enjoyed by one pony in particular that insists on dancing to the music. The commentator intro-duces the teams, one player at a time. Both teams consist of players varying in youth and experi-ence. Tom de Bruin (Handicap 5), Guy Watson (Handicap 5), Bradley Mallett (Handicap 3), and 15-year-old Dirk van Reenen (Handicap 1) make up the South African team, while the Indian team features Samir Suhag (Handicap 5), Col. Tarun Siohi (Handicap 3), Maj. Ravi Rathore (Handicap 3) and Maj. Vishal Chauhan (Handicap 2).

The match gets off to a speedy start as India scores off a penalty in the first few minutes. In the wake of the opening goal, van Reenen, the polo protégé of the match, scores the first goal for his country. India is awarded another penalty, and Suhag doen’t waste the opportunity. He follows it up with some incredibly fancy stick-work taking the score to 1 – 2 to India, but de Bruin manages to even the scoreboard before the end of the first chukka.

The pace doesn’t relent as the second chukka commences. India almost adds another goal in the first couple of minutes, but misses by a frac-tion. South Africa gets awarded a penalty, which de Bruin takes, setting it up for Mallett, who sends the ball sailing through the posts. De bruin goes in for another, but is thwarted by some strong Indian defences. After some unhorsing on the Indian team and fresh ponies being brought onto the field, South Africa is awarded another penalty. Watson strikes the ball with aplomb, but it falls just wide of the post. As the second chukka con-cludes, the score is 3 – 2 to South Africa.

Rathore starts off the third chukka with admi-rable defence, preventing de Bruin from scoring again, but South Africa doesn’t stay hindered for very long as goal after goal is scored in such quick succession that it is difficult to keep track. The boys in green and gold display fantastic team work, and just when the spectators think there’s no more time left in this chukka for another goal, Mallett sends the ball through the posts just before halftime, bringing the score to 6 – 2 to South Africa.

During the hiatus many of the punters glide gracefully onto the field to take part in the age-old tradition of stomping the divots. Designer heels are eagerly muddied up in exchange for a story to tell, and when the green is smoothed out about as much as it can be, glasses are charged and seats taken up for the second half.

India comes back from the break well rested and ready to give it their all, as is proven with a goal scored in the first few minutes of the fourth chukka. This goal is followed hot on the heels by two penalties awarded to India one after another,

both of which the visiting team makes good on. Just before the end of the chukka South Africa fouls yet again, allowing India the opportunity at another penalty shot, which Suhag sends through the posts with ease, bringing the score to a close 6 – 5 to South Africa.

South Africa trots onto the field with the spirit reminiscent of the underdog, adamant not to be defeated on home soil. The final chukka kicks off with a penalty awarded to the home team, which they manage to convert at the foot of the goalmouth. With a 2-goal lead, the South African team feels a sense of relief, which is short-lived as Suhag sends a surprise goal through the posts so spectacular that even the South Africans applaud. Mallett scores shortly afterwards, bring-ing an iota of breathing space back to the score-board for the South Africans. The last half of the final chukka is something of a fracas. Watson gets unhorsed and the pony bolts back to the stable. The groom swiftly brings out a fresh pony. South Africa is awarded a penalty, which de Bruin pre-pares to play. Suhag snatches the ball right out from under the noses of the South Africans, but South Africa reclaims possession pretty quickly, and de Bruin ends the tussle with a beautiful goal. South Africa is awarded yet another penalty, which de Bruin sends through the posts with a lot of ease, but minimal flair. Just before the end of the final chukka, India is awarded another penalty, which is taken by Suhag, and predictably it goes through, bringing the final score to 10 – 7 to South Africa.

All who attended enjoyed a quality game of polo. Guests go in search of more bubbly to replenish their glasses for the prize giving, at which Samir Suhag is deservedly awarded the title of Man of the Match, and he and Tom de Bruin share the title of Highest Scorer. Those keen for the celebrations to continue head for the bar, while the wearier ones head for the car park, and everyone feels the warm glow of satisfaction after a successful event. n

Lyndall Jarvis and Roxy Louw

Roland Schoeman, Lieschen Botes and Ryk Neethling

One of BMW’s gorgeous specimens

A fAmily affair

C a p e T o w n C u p

2 4 P O L O S A

The Cape Town Cup kiCked off

on wednesday 2 MarCh 2011 in

whaT proMised To be an inTiMaTe

affair, wiThouT CoMproMising

on qualiTy polo. and by sunday,

afTer Three and a half days

of polo, The final was finally

upon us.

R elatives of the polo family from all across the Cape – and some from even further afield – come together for an intimate collection of polo matches, and some good old-fashioned fun in the sun. Friends and family of polo players arrive and make themselves comfortable in the warm late morning sun as they wait for the final to begin.

We find a table under an umbrella and make our-selves comfortable. Luckily for the ego of the hosts, Val de Vie is one of the teams that have made it through to the final, along with Lanquedoc, a team from a neighbouring farm. This polo tournament doesn’t have the fluttering social butterflies ever-present at larger polo events, such as the BMW International or the Africa Cup. There are no designer heels, haute couture dresses or oversized hats. The atmosphere on the veranda of the Val de Vie pavilion is that of a lazy Sunday afternoon, best spent with friends and family eating a delicious lunch from the restaurant while taking in a spot of polo. It is all very colonial indeed, and makes one think of Jane Austen novels in which the men would indulge in an innings of cricket on the vast grounds before lunch, while the women sipped

tea and cheered for their husbands and brothers from the perimeter.

But languid cricket is no competition for the fast thrill of polo, and so the match gets underway. Val de Vie take an early lead, and things are looking good for the hosts. During the four chukkas played, the scales tip back and forth, leaving both the play-ers and spectators unsure of what the final result will yield. After some exciting play and fancy stick-work, Val de Vie manages to keep the trophy at home with a hair-raising 8 – 6 to the home team.

While languid cricket may be no competition for the thrill of polo, it turns out that World Cup Cricket does provide some contest for a polo prize giving ceremony. As the organisers of the event prepared the table of prizes for the cere-mony, the Proteas start looking in serious danger of losing to England, and many of the polo spec-tators gravitate towards the television in the bar area to see the Proteas fight to stay alive. After a long battle, England wins by six runs, and the polo celebrations continue. The Cape Town Polo Club come in at fourth place, followed by Maremmana Central Academy in third place. The title of runner-up goes to Lanquedoc, and after a fantastic effort from the hosts, Val de Vie manages to keep the Cape Town Cup at home. n

words and phoTographs by Zoë henry

Alessandro Balestri de Verrand

p o l o p a t r o n s

2 6 P O L O S A

WORDS By

LauRen De BeeR

Being an aviD pOLO

pLayeR can Leave

a RatheR SizaBLe

Dent in One’S

pOcket. SO thOSe

With a BuRning

paSSiOn tO pLay

the SpORt, anD a

ReLativeLy mODeSt

incOme, WiLL have

tO cOnSiDeR the

acquiSitiOn Of the

OnLy aSSet mORe

uSefuL than a pOny

anD pOLO maLLet –

a patROn.

In the United Kingdom, polo’s repu-tation as a bastion of privilege is not without foundation. If you take the sport seriously, you need the kit and the horsepower and, preferably, someone to pay for it.

That someone is a patron, usually an amateur rider who picks the choicest players and then signs the cheque to secure them for his team. For the privi-lege, patrons spend hundreds of thousands of pounds flying players and ponies around the world to compete in the top tournaments.

It’s a life of luxury and indulgence: Kerry Packer, the late Australian media tycoon, was so obsessed with winning the coveted Gold Cup at Cowdray Park in the south of England that he bought a village nearby in which to base himself for a month or two in preparation for the tournament.

Running a team for the season in the UK will more than likely leave you with little change from £1-million – and should your outfit emerge trium-phant in the Gold Cup, your sum total of victory booty is simply the silverware and the kudos of the assembled crowd. No huge cheques, no cash bonuses and the prospect of more than likely having to give the cup back at next year’s renewal.

While the image of multimillionaire playboy patrons swigging Dom Pérignon and dodging each other’s super-sized egos may be the case abroad, in South Africa the sport’s handful of patrons tend to pay for the thrills, rather than for the frills.

For Cape Town-based Rupert Hackwill, his investment in the sport means he is able to play at a high level off a low handicap, and enjoy the camaraderie this cultivates.

“It’s important to note the difference between UK-style polo – which is patron- and image-driven – and our polo here. In South Africa, the sport is down to earth; it’s essentially the farming com-munity, it’s players in the pub afterwards sharing a beer – and that’s a good thing,” says Hackwill.

“I personally love to play high goal polo, hence I pay money to have a team. The guys

I play with are also really good friends, and it works well,” he says.

Hackwill’s IQuattro team comprises Wayne Hartley, Rory Twort and Brad MacGibbon, although it may vary according to the handicap requirements of different tournaments.

Hackwill, who is one of two partners in Griffin Holdings, a commercial property investment company, spends significantly less than £1-million a year, but nevertheless the outlay is certainly paying dividends. The quartet had a fruitful year in 2010, winning the KwaZulu-Natal double of the 12-goal Karkloof Classic and the Lion’s River tour-nament in June.

“In a team sport such as polo, there is huge strategy – who is playing well, who is not, who is well mounted or not,” says Hackwill. “I love the ups and downs – when we won at Karkloof we were three goals behind and we won in the last 10 seconds. Nothing beats the excitement of that.”

So while he may be hard at work in the board-room during the week, Hackwill swaps property portfolios for ponies on the weekend and enjoys everything from a gentle practice in Cape Town to a ding-dong clash of mallets in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.

“I’m a 0-goaler and I have to pay to make

playerBehind every great

Action from the Lions River Tournament 2010

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 2 7

p o l o p a t r o n s

something that works for everyone,” he says. “At the end of the day I get to play high goal polo on good horses, which I love.”

One of the biggest investors in the sport is Clifford Elphick, who was instrumental in growing the game in the coastal town of Plettenberg Bay and whose Kurland Estate attracts the crème de la crème of the equestrian world each year for its season, which runs from November to April.

Having only been introduced to polo in his mid-30s, Elphick’s desire to improve his own game was the driving force behind his ploughing resources into the amenities at Kurland. As a capable all-round sportsman at school and uni-versity, it stood to reason that Elphick wanted to excel in the saddle, too. “You can’t have a patron who is simply trotting around the edges of the field. He needs to make a contribution beyond his handicap. You have to have someone who can pick the ball up and run with it, who can score goals, someone who can play every shot and someone with a little bit of bravery.”

Elphick is the CEO of Gem Diamonds, the downside of which means due to his work com-mitments he doesn’t have as much time as he would like to play. “I get down to Plett at the end of the year, try to get fit in the first week, and play

for two. Most importantly I’m putting a lot of effort into assisting the development of the young play-ers; I get much satisfaction from that.”

In that regard, Elphick considers himself a facilitator rather than a patron. He makes Kurland’s four fields available so that everyone has a fair chance at competing.

“When I do play, the Kurland team is essen-tially [resident professional] George Morgan and myself, and we’ll build a team around that. In the high goal play we’ve used Nachi du Plessis and Gonchie von Wernich. We also push our grooms not to be just grooms in the traditional sense, but to play and bring on young horses, which has been rewarding.”

Elphick won’t divulge how much he spends each year, but it’s a figure that more than likely includes a host of zeros. “Your return on invest-ment is your enjoyment,” he points out. “There’s no business model where you’re going to see a return on your capital. It’s the sort of sport where you have to – like a friend of mine did – name all your horses the same name so that your wife can’t tell the difference between them!”

While he has played against world No 1 Adolpho Cambiaso and practised with members of the legendary Pieres family in Argentina, the

modest businessman says: “I’m about to turn 50, so that’s not a time to try to be something of consequence on the polo field. I know my place – a breeder of ponies and an armchair critic is probably my lot in life.” n

Rupert Hackwill on his horse Shimmer

Clifford Elphick

From left: Rory Twort, Brad MacGibbon, Wayne Hartley and Rupert Hackwill

C O A C H ’ s C O R N E R

2 8 P O L O S A

By John Lister

For the Love

of the horse

“I think that the most important thing for all young players is riding the horse – horsemanship. If they improve that, and they work on that, the rest just comes easy. Ninety percent of great polo players’ abilities come from riding the horse.” – Mike Azarro (9 goals)

The essence of this quote, and of this article for that matter, is that the horse is one of the most vital elements of polo. This is something that has been said before and will be said again, but is so fre-quently ignored that it is worth mentioning here.

While you may not aspire to high goal levels, enjoyment of the game and safety are surely key factors for anyone riding onto the field. There can’t be much pleasure in hanging onto your horse for dear life, circling the field to slow down, or ending a chukka with arms that feel like they have been pulled from their sockets, particularly when you probably didn’t get near the ball for the entire chukka.

But before you rush off to gym to build some more muscle, or blame everything from the horse to field conditions, take a moment to honestly assess your riding skills and the attention that your horses might need. Even those who only ride to play polo can improve their game, enjoyment, safety and horses’ welfare by improved horsemanship.

“The player who best manages and controls the horse will be he who is the quickest at posi-tioning himself correctly” – Javier Tanoira

The Batman costume in a toy shop states “Caution: Cape does not enable user to fly.” You might think it’s amazing what some people will believe… or is it?

Polo is an equestrian sport, and while horse-manship might be the obvious focus, the ‘horse factor’ is so often overlooked that the statement “Caution: buying a horse and carrying a polo stick will not teach you to ride” could be applicable.

There are no short cuts when it comes to horsemanship or caring for your ponies. They are your biggest investment, and the better you are at both these tasks, the longer your ponies will last, and the better your game will be. Improving your riding will improve your game, and in turn, improve your handicap.

Polo is a team sport, and in order to be a part of a team you need to be able to position yourself correctly in order to receive or give a pass. This MAin photogrAph By kevin goss–ross

C O A C h ’ s C O r n e r

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 2 9

is very difficult to achieve if you are not able to get your horse where you want to be. How many times have you been yelled at because your team-mates are frustrated that you aren’t readily available? Easy and light control of the horse will make positioning so much easier.

Javier Tanoira states “In my mind, there are three basic characteristics that define a high-goal player: anticipation, horsemanship, and skill at handling the ball. The clearer and more precise the order that the player gives his horse, the sooner he will arrive at where he wants to get.” And although he is referring to high goal players with a handicap of six or more, he still ranks horse-manship above ball skill.

In previous articles we covered some of the aspects of riding and schooling, here we will look at some common causes of frustration.

Temperament and conformation play an impor-tant role in a horse’s suitability to polo, and how they will partner with different riders. As with humans, horses have different characters and abilities. Some horses are simply not suited to polo, while being pushed too early has ruined others. A lower purchase price may seem tempt-ing, but as we all know, it’s the keeping of the horse that is expensive, and there’s nothing more expensive than keeping a horse you can’t play or don’t enjoy. Choose the right horse for you.

The mouth is frequently the source of many ‘problems’. It is said that a horse is only as good as its mouth, so it is your pony’s most precious asset. Abuse it, and you’ll lose it. Horses with less sensi-tive mouths require more schooling and mainte-nance to remain light. Increasing the severity of the bit is a short cut many players try, and although this may work for a while, it doesn’t solve the problem. In fact, in the long run, it will often worsen the problem and create more damage and resistance. There is no replacement for school-ing and riding correctly. By all means, try different bits. Different horses respond to different actions, but remember to school the horse in accepting the bit, particularly when changing to a different bit action.

“If a horse has a tough mouth, there must be a reason. However, it will surely not be softened by force.” – Eduardo Amaya

Be careful not to balance on your horse’s

mouth, or on the reins. This common fault usually stems from an incorrect seat. If your legs are not strong and balanced enough to hold your weight, you will tend to hang onto the horses mouth. Remember a horse can only pull if you give it something to pull against. Brute force may work for a while, but will shorten the useful life of your pony, while creating a more resistant horse.

Whips and spurs are aids, and are meant to be an extension of your legs, never to be used alone. Many novice players use their whips inadvertently, particularly the long whips. If incorrectly held these tickle or tap the horse behind the saddle, asking for acceleration.

Check that you are holding the whip correctly so that it only comes into use when you specifi-cally want to use it, particularly when stopping. A frequent fault is to tap the horse with the whip when pulling the hand back to stop – causing the same effect as simultaneously keeping your foot on the accelerator and brake.

Lazy legs will tend to overuse spurs, so try alternating with and without spurs.

Remember the rules of polo are for the safety and welfare of player and horse. It is worthwhile knowing the rules of polo with regards to the use of both.

Feeding is another vital aspect, and often the source of much frustration. Overfed, under exer-cised horses are not only unhealthy, but very frus-trating to ride and play. Most players have a limited time to spend with their horses, and a chukka is only seven-and-a-half minutes after all. You don’t

want to spend that time fighting a horse that is bouncing around like a child on a sugar high. Conversely, underfed horses will lack sufficient energy, feel flat and most likely look unhealthy.

Individual horses have different requirements. Like humans, some will do well on a handful of food, while others will need several kilograms. If you don’t have the experience, get advice from your feed company and/or nutritionist. There may be a lot of trial and error until you get the balance right, but make sure every horse gets a ration adequate to its needs. Remember to cut back on concentrate if a horse is off work for any reason.

Grooms, as it has been said time and again, are vital to your game. Considering they look after your biggest asset in the game of polo, it is well worthwhile providing them with sufficient train-ing. Make sure they know how to ride, tell if a horse is sick or lame, and especially that they handle your horses kindly. Quiet and relaxed horses indicate good handling, whereas fidgeting, head-shy and nervous horses will point towards rough handling.

Well done to all those players who have real-ised the importance of the partnership with their horse. Polo needs good ambassadors of the game – after all it is the ‘sport of kings’. n

Three cheers to the ponies.

This article sites Reflecting on Polo in Argentina by

Javier Tanoira, Playmaker by Hugh Dawnay and

http://www.argentinapolo.com/poloadvice.html as

its references.

Brutality begins where skill ends.Egon von nEindorff

p r o f i l e

3 0 P O L O S A

It’s a demandIng lIfestyle beIng a polo player by professIon.

somewhere between the noble vIctory at the bmw

InternatIonal, and the more humble, but no less Important

wIn at the cape town cup, we managed to steal a few

mInutes wIth south afrIca’s rIsIng star of polo.

words and maIn photograph by Zoë henry

Tom de Bruin is fast acquiring the cre-dence of a polo veteran. Everything he touches seems to turn to trophies, and if he is playing a game, the commentary is inevitably peppered with the phrase “de Bruin scores.” So if you have recently entered the polo scene, you shall be for-given for being taken aback by his rosy cheeks, twinkling blue eyes and boyish grin. But don’t let this innocent charm throw you off. On a pony, with a mallet in his hand, he is a force to be reckoned with. Surprisingly, de Bruin hasn’t been playing polo since he could walk, like many polistas with a similar level of skill. His first polo experience was at the tender age of eight with his father at the Underberg Polo Club, but the polo bug didn’t bite him straight away.

“I actually didn’t have the attraction for polo then as I do now. I played rugby all through school, and it was actually only after school that I realised polo was a sport I would like to be involved in”, he explains. “I remember a lot of stick and ball work, and watching polo, but I only felt the desire to play much later on.”

Different players are attracted to the ‘sport of kings’ for a multitude of reasons. Some are in it for the thrill of the chase, while others fall into it by means of a family legacy. But for Tom, it’s about the horses.

“I love just being with the horses and watch-ing them develop. You really build a very strong bond with your horses. Of course there are other equestrian sports that would’ve allowed me to spend as much time with them, but with polo there is the skill and physical aspect as well as the horse aspect, so this was the sport I chose.”

But choosing polo as the equestrian sport that fulfils all your athletic needs doesn’t come without a hefty price tag. It is a well-known fact that keep-ing horses is an expensive pastime, and that’s not even taking into account the maintenance of a polo field. It is for these reasons that the sport of polo seems to be defending itself constantly against accusations of being an elitist sport that can only be enjoyed exclusively by the affluent of South Africa, but de Bruin has a different take on it.

“I actually don’t really believe it is an elitist sport. There is a strong polo presence at a grass roots level in South Africa, and SAPA needs to look after these players in order to preserve the sport. Obviously keeping horses is expensive, but there are channels aspiring polo players who are previ-ously disadvantaged can take.”

Previously disadvantaged and the ‘sport of kings’ may seem like chalk and cheese at first glance, but there is a lot happening in South Africa with regards to development polo. Like many other team sports, polo is a wonderful means of teaching people life skills. And it has the added soul-healing properties of having close contact with the noble equestrians.

“Polo is definitely an effective way of teaching underprivileged children certain life values. Development polo projects are making a large contribution towards growing the game, and peo-ple who would never have gotten the opportunity to see the world are getting these opportunities”, de Bruin explains. “There is a trend now of teaching grooms how to play, and this is a wonderful thing. Even as we speak, I am taking two of my grooms to the airport where they are going to get the chance to see parts of the world that they never would’ve ordinarily had a chance to see. And they are going to earn pounds, which is obviously a bonus. Projects like these have a positive effect on job creation, and that is always a good thing.”

Playing polo as a vocation may sound like a dream come true, and in part it is. But like every-thing else, it’s not all a walk in the park, or rather a canter on a polo field. Whenever you choose one path of life, there are other paths that remain untravelled, life experiences that remain unexperi-enced, and opportunities that fade away. The trick is to take the path that suits you best, and that you will get the most out of. De Bruin seems relatively comfortable with the choices he has made thus far, and confident that there is time for all that other stuff in the future, even if his present way of life has its drawbacks.

“The travelling is great at the beginning, but it can get a bit tedious after a while. It’s difficult not having any roots, and it can get quite solitary, especially as a young bachelor. But of course there

are many advantages as well, like getting to meet loads of different kinds of people that you wouldn’t ordinarily get the opportunity to meet. I have loads of friends all around the world, and that is great. In terms of settling down, I suppose I will just keep doing this until I feel the time is right to stop. I don’t really want to put a limit on it.”

As for the future, he seems to take it as it comes. But that doesn’t mean he’s a man without a plan.

“Well the plan is, when it feels like the time is right to stop travelling and playing polo profession-ally, to take over my father’s farm. Although I am also very interested in property. One of the great things about travelling the world playing polo is that you get to see how the world works, and that is very useful when it comes to any career path.”

As a man of the world, and one of the few polo players in South Africa that is able to do it for a living, he must have some advice for aspiring polo players.

“Build up a good string of quality ponies. They will take you to the next level.”

The essence of polo really is the horse. It is something that seems so obvious, yet is too often forgotten. Treating your ponies well and training them properly will undoubtedly improve your game, and in turn your handicap.

“In polo you get out what you put into your horses, so look after them to the best of your ability.”

Tom de Bruin holding up the trophy at the BMW international with his team-mates (from left to right)

Bradley Mallett, Guy Watson and Dirk van Reenen

Phot

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y W

erne

r Ry

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p r o f i l e

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 3 1

starA rising

c l u b s a n d c o n t a c t s

SAPA’Sclubs and contacts

CapeAddo Polo Club Secretary Captain David Robinson Vernon Oxenham Tel: n/a Tel: 046 653 0708 Cell: 072 128 1163 Cell: n/a Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

CAPe Hunt Polo Club Secretary Captain Grant Buchan Tim Loughton Tel: 021 976 3968 Tel: n/a Cell: n/a Cell: 082 331 9639 Email: [email protected] (Grant Buchan)Email: [email protected] (Tim Loughton)

KurlAnd Polo Club Secretary and Captain Clive Peddle Tel: 044 534 8786 Cel: 082 454 9746Cell: 082 454 974Email: [email protected]

redford Polo Club Secretary and Captain Mike Mouat Cell: 082 562 9806 Email: [email protected]

tulbAgH Polo Club Secretary Captain Jo Lister John Lister Cell: 082 884 9881 Cell: 082 884 9882Email: [email protected]

VAl de Vie Polo Club Secretary Captain Tehri Fergusson Rolf Thielen Tel: 021 863 6169 Tel: n/aCell: 083 796 0404 Cell: 083 796 0404Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

East Griqua-

landJurAssiC PArK Polo Club Secretary Captain Jeanne Williamson Selby Williamson Tel: 039 747 4434 Tel: 039 747 4434 Cell: 083 703 9397 Cell: 083 262 6893 Email: [email protected]

KoKstAd Polo Club Secretary Captain Peta Stanford Michael Osborn Tel: 039 727 3999 Tel: n/a Cell: 083 287 8236 Cell: 083 288 8829 Email: [email protected]

lufAfA roAd Polo Club Secretary Captain Andrea Marlton Peter Hancock Tel: n/a Tel: 039 834 9010 Cell: 082 567 3705 Cell: 082 556 7229 Email: [email protected] (Andrea Marlton) Email: [email protected] (Peter Hancock)

MAtAtiele Polo Club Secretary Captain Basil Dwyer Ian McDonald Tel: 039 737 3118 Tel: 039 737 3891 Cell: 083 626 8787 Cell: 083 779 3118 Email: [email protected] (Basil Dwyer) Email: [email protected] (Ian McDonald)

PAddoCK Polo Club Secretary Captain Deborah Demont Philip King Tel: n/a Tel: 039 679 9026 Cell: 083 962 6884 Cell: 082 564 9821 Email: [email protected] (Deborah Demont)Email: [email protected] (Philip King)

underberg Polo ClubSecretary Captain Jemma Eustace John EustaceTel: 033 702 0103 Email: [email protected]

ZwArtberg Polo ClubSecretary Captain Andrew Gilson Guy Williamson Tel: 039 747 4714 Tel: 039 747 4463 Cell: 082 454 1345 Cell: 082 771 1556 Email: [email protected] (Andrew Gilson) Email: [email protected] (Guy Williamson)

Free StatebetHleHeM Polo Club Secretary Captain Petro Willemse Gerhard van DoornickCell: 082 387 5108 Cell: 082 378 5105 Email: [email protected]

bloeMfontein Polo Club Secretary and Captain Gavin Hartman Tel: 051 436 4213 Cell: 082 772 7559 Email: [email protected]

frAnsHoeK Polo Club Secretary Captain Tracey Morgan Christian Findlay

Tel: 051 933 3938 Tel: 051 933 3938 Cell: 072 403 9454 Cell: 082 659 1966 Email: [email protected] (Tracey Morgan) Email: [email protected] (Christian Findlay)

HAMMoniA Polo Club Secretary Captain Friedl von Maltitz Helgard du Preez Tel: 051 933 4901/3881 Tel: 051 933 3866 Cell: 083 462 7476 Cell: 078 123 3463 Email: [email protected]

HArrisMitH Polo Club Secretary Captain Doug Osler Andries Young Tel: n/a Tel: n/a Cell: n/a Cell: 082 372 9372 Email: [email protected]

JJ7 Polo Club Secretary and Captain Jan Groenewald Tel: 051 943 7062 Cell: 082 569 2480 Email: [email protected]

oAKlAnds Polo Club Secretary Captain Beth MacLarty Brett Watson Tel: 036 421 1768 Tel: 058 671 0067 Cell: 083 627 4118 Cell: 076 111 1517 Email: [email protected] (Beth MacLarty) Email: [email protected] (Brett Watson)

rAKHoi Polo Club Secretary Captain Riza Henning Angus Yeats Tel: n/a Tel: n/a Cell: n/a Cell: 083 632 5861 Email: [email protected]

sPArtA Polo Club Secretary Captain Debbie Jackson Lou van Reenen Tel: 051 991 9205 Tel: 051 991 9200 Cell: 076 313 2650 Cell: 082 576 6291 Email: [email protected] (Debbie Jackson)Email: [email protected] (Lou van Reenen)

uitgedACHt Polo Club Secretary Captain Mark Ward Catherine Cairns Tel: n/a Tel: 083 434 6372 Cell: 084 290 0000 Cell: n/a Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

HighveldArnot Polo Club Secretary Captain Candice Kane-Berman James Kane-Berman Tel: n/a

3 2 P O L O S A

tHe Most

CoMPreHensiVe list

for finding fellow

Polo PlAyers,

entHusiAsts And

trAining.

c l u b s a n d c o n t a c t s

Cell: 082 388 3505 Email: [email protected]

CroCodile Creek Polo Club Secretary Captain Denis Mack Murray Spark Tel: 011 702 1819 Cell: 084 230 0932 Email: [email protected]

east rand Polo Club Secretary Captain Hannes Pickard Duncan Ellis Tel: n/a Tel: n/a Cell: 083 310 1100 Cell: 082 731 9600 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

inanda Polo Club Secretary Captain Craig Brewer JP Rey Tel: n/a Tel: n/a Cell: 083 303 0980 Cell: 082 655 2251 Email: [email protected]

roCking Four Polo Club Secretary Captain Tracey Gardiner Davey EvansTel: 012 811 0303 Cell: 082 556 7886 Email: [email protected]

stoneField Polo Club Secretary Captain Roslyn Hellstrom Guy Watson Tel: 011 259 9517 Tel: n/a Cell: n/a Cell: 082 785 4199 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

WilloWCress Polo Club Secretary Captain Di Jones Ced Morgan-Jones Tel: n/a Tel: n/a Cell: 082 992 2512 Cell: 082 099 2921 Email: [email protected]

KwaZulu-Natal

bergville Polo Club Secretary Captain Nick Reitz Denys Reitz Tel: 036 448 1872 Tel: n/a Cell: 083 406 4481 Cell: 083 400 1347 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

gingindhlovu Polo Club Secretary Captain Debbie Louw Jonathan Louw Tel: 035 337 1612 Tel: 035 337 1612 Cell: 083 740 5506 Cell: 083 301 2924 Email: [email protected]

karklooF Polo ClubSecretary Captain Jan te Riele Philip Benson Tel: 033 330 2793 Tel: 033 330 2271 Cell: 082 491 7998 Cell: 082 784 3971 Email: [email protected] (Jan te Riele) Email: [email protected] (Philip Benson)

kWambonambi Polo Club Secretary Captain Joey van Eeden Lionel Foster Tel: 035 550 5058 Tel: 035 789 8583 Cell: 082 381 4377 Cell: 082 958 5313 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

lions river Polo Club Secretary Captain Julia Rees Dieter Rowe-Setz Tel: 033 234 4311 Tel: 033 234 4215 Cell: 073 141 4844 Cell: 083 309 0504 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

mooi river Polo ClubSecretary Captain Janeen Cole Clive Cole Tel: 033 263 2447 Tel: 033 263 2447 Cell: 082 833 6837 Cell: 082 771 5722 Email: [email protected]

noodsberg Polo Club Secretary Captain Julian Gordon Stephen Erskine Tel: 033 343 2925 Tel: 033 506 0064 Cell: 082 930 4244 Cell: 082 571 6511 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

ottaWa Polo Club Secretary Captain Dave Erskine Simon Armstrong Tel: 031 569 2866 Tel: 032 541 2000 Cell: 082 557 9288 Cell: 082 654 7184 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

otto’s bluFF Polo Club Secretary and Captain Willy MacGibbon Tel: 031 572 2445 Cell: 083 252 3651 Email: [email protected]

riChmond Polo Club Secretary Captain Martin Peddle John Gowar Tel: 031 781 1907 Tel: 033 212 2425 Cell: 082 400 2445 Cell: 083 667 7629 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

seaton delaval Polo Club Secretary Captain Charmaine Giddey Stuart Erskine Tel: 032 947 0694 Tel: n/a Cell: 083 628 2198 Cell: n/a Email: [email protected] (Charmaine Giddey) Email: [email protected] (Stuart Erskine )

shongWeni Polo Club Secretary and Captain Murray Evennett Tel: 031 709 6981Cell: 083 452 2814 Email: [email protected]

vryheid Polo Club Secretary Captain Jacques van Vuuren Rudi Voster Tel: n/a Tel: n/a Cell: 082 852 1882 Cell: 083 780 1616 Email: [email protected]

If your contact details have changed or you would like to have your new club details published in the next issue of Polo SA, you can email the editor on [email protected].

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 3 3

Photograph by Lisa Skinner

CAPE Aliverti Fredrico -1 CAPE Anderson Barry tbc CAPE Bains Anthony 0 CAPE Behr Peter -1 CAPE Betolaza Ramon -2 CAPE Bolza Marie-Gabrieltbc CAPE Bratley Derek 5 CAPE BrittenLong Nick 2 CAPE Brokensha Shaun 3 CAPE Burton Shaun -1 CAPE Camm Jenny -1 CAPE Camm Julian 2 CAPE Camm Justin 1 CAPE Camm Mike 0 CAPE Campbell Smart 1 CAPE Coventry Neil -1 CAPE Cowley Bruce -2 CAPE Crossley Bob 0 CAPE Crossley Louisa -1 CAPE Crossley Sophie 1 CAPE Crossley Sue -2 CAPE Crowe Ben 0 CAPE Crowe James -1 CAPE Crowe Tommy 3 CAPE deVilliers Jacques -2 CAPE deWaal Ryal S CAPE Drew Jason -2 CAPE duPlessis Charl 2 CAPE duPlooy Johan 2 CAPEduPreezPaterson Liam S CAPE Edwards Chris -2 CAPE Elphick Clifford 0 CAPE Engelbrecht Japie -1 CAPE Ensink Deon -1 CAPE Ephson Martin 0 CAPE Evans Gareth 6 CAPE Ferguson Robyn -1 CAPE Fine Ray -1 CAPE Gotz Peter -2 CAPE Griffiths Mike 0 CAPE Hancock Oliver -1 CAPE Hartman Lia tbc CAPE Hartman Marcel tbc CAPE Hartman Martin 0 CAPE Hartman Sebastian tbc CAPE Henrich Jessica -2 CAPE Hodges Harold 1 CAPE Hutchinson Max 1 CAPE Johnson Arthur -1 CAPE Kanigowski Garth 0 CAPE Kanigowski Gavin -1 CAPE Kanigowski Marek S CAPE Kanigowski Pawel 1 CAPE Keyte Greg 4 CAPE Lawrance Michelle tbc CAPE LePoer Richard 4 CAPE LeRoux David S CAPE LeRoux Joshua S CAPE Legh John -1 CAPE Lister Joanna -1 CAPE Lister John 0 CAPE Lister Spike -1 CAPE Loughton Tim -1 CAPE Lund Chris -2 CAPE Lund Doug 5 CAPE MacKenzie Buster 6 CAPE MacKenzie Chris 3* CAPE MacKenzie Jacqui 0 CAPE MacKenzie Mike -1 CAPE Makenete Tisetso 1 CAPE Makhane Tinker 0 CAPE Mallandain Justine tbc CAPE Mallett Brad 3 CAPE Meiring Luke -1 CAPE Meyer Christiaan S CAPE Morgan George 3 CAPE Motaung Paul 0 CAPE Moxon Matthew -1 CAPE Moxon Tessa -1 CAPE Nkashane Noel 0 CAPE Pearson Julian -2 CAPE Peddle Clive 0 CAPE Pilbeam Julia 0 CAPE Ramsden Robert -1 CAPE Rauch Clifford 0 CAPE Richardson Nick -2 CAPE Richardson Vaughan 1 CAPE Richie Matthew -1 CAPE Rixon Kevin 2 CAPE Roussow Luke S CAPE Schabort Louw 1 CAPE Schabort Monique -2 CAPE Scott-Hopkins James 0 CAPE Snaith Justin -1 CAPE Steenkamp JanAlbert 1 CAPE Stegeman Martin 0 CAPE Stuart Andrew tbc CAPE Stuart Georgie tbc CAPE Stuart Peter tbc CAPE Stuart Robbie tbc CAPE Stuart Sue tbc CAPE Tapia Ariel 5 CAPE Thielen Rolf -2 CAPE VanArmin Philip tbc

CAPE VanderByl Valerian tbc CAPE vanWyk Eric -1 CAPE Venter Martin -2 CAPE vonDonhoff Elena -2 CAPE Watson Alex S CAPE Watson Gavin S CAPE Watson Grace -1 CAPE Watson Guy 5 CAPE Watson Karen S CAPE White Harry 1 CAPE Zuma Aaron 0 EG Barras Rob 0 EG Blore Brendan 0 EG Bodley Glynn 1 EG Borrowdale Phox 1 EG Bryden Gareth 3 EG Bryden Rory 5 EG Clegg Guy 1T EG Craig Brett 2 EG Craig MichaelJohn 2 EG deBruin Eugene 1 EG deBruin Tom 5 EG duPlessis Fanie 0 EG duPlessis Ignus 7 EG duPlessis Jean 5 EG Dwyer Basil -1 EG Eustace John 5 EG Eustace Pat 1 EG Fraser Clynton 1 EG Gilson Andrew 1 EG Gushu Zandisi 0 EG Hancock Peter 0 EG Hein Bryan 5 EG Hein Paula -1 EG Hogg Richard 0 EG Howard Alan 0 EG Howard Patrick 0 EG Johnson Stuart 1 EG Kennedy Tony 0 EG King Philip 1 EG Landingwe Linda -1 EG leFevre Louis -2 EG Marlton Andrea -2 EG Marlton John 0 EG Masabalala Annella 0 EG Mbalekwa Qozi 1 EG McDonald Iain 2 EG Millington Lloyd 0 EG Osborn Dave -1 EG Osborn Michael 3 EG Pagel Aaron -1 EG Parkes Tristan -1 EG PriceMoor Trace 0T EG Rattray Clark 3 EG Rattray Hayden -1 EG Robinson Darrin 0 EG Spengane Jack 1 EG Spengane M -1 EG Stanford Angus 0 EG Stanford Peta -1 EG Storah Evan 2 EG Taylor Tinny 0 EG Watson Byron 1 EG Watson Duncan 4 EG Watson Hylton 4 EG Watson Jane -1 EG Watson Martin -1 EG Watson Robyn -1 EG Watson Russell 6 EG Williamson Alan 1 EG Williamson Cody -1 EG Williamson Guy 3 EG Williamson Miles 1 EG Williamson Nicky 0 EG Williamson Robert 0 EG Williamson Ross -1 EG Williamson Selby 6 EG Williamson Sharon -2 EG Williamson Sheldon -2 FS Aked Ed -2 FS Alston Will -2 FS Attenborough Jamie -2 FS AwuahDarko Harold 0 FS AwuahDarko HaroldJnr -2 FS AwuahDarko Joseph -2 FS Bond Philip -1 FS Bond Sarah -2 FS Brand Mervyn 0 FS Brooke-Leggatt Graeme 2 FS Bruce Alisdair -2 FS Bruce Caroline -1 FS Bruce Hamish -2 FS Bruce Louis -2 FS Cairns Catherine -1 FS Chaka Masontaha -2 FS Chaka Matcheiso -2 FS deVilliers Andre -2 FS deVilliers Henre -2 FS duPreez Helgard 2 FS duPreez Henry 0 FS Findlay Christian 0 FS Franke Douglas 0 FS Fraser Garth 1 FS Grinter Andrew 0

FS Groenewald Jan 0 FS Groenewald Johan 4 FS Gutridge Rod 3 FS Hartman Gavin 1 FS Henning Philip 0 FS Holmes Gordon 0 FS Jackson Debbie -1 FS Koto Abraham -1 FS Lephatsi Legotla -1 FS Lephatsi Mosaku -2 FS Lepheane Oupa -1 FS Lombard Anton -2 FS MacLarty Bruce 1 FS Meshake Tshidiso 2 FS Mofokeng Thabo 0 FS Mofolo Michael 0 FS Mokoena Pah 1 FS Morgan Craig 2 FS Morgan Tracey -1 FS Mostert Des 0 FS Mothijoa Thapelo -1 FS Mothijoa Tinto -2 FS Mulders Willy 0 FS Nkopane Naledi 0 FS Nouwens Marcus -1 FS Ntoleng Difinana -1 FS Ntoleng Taota -2 FS Osler Denton 0 FS Osler Diane -2 FS Osler Douglas 1 FS Osler Gillian -2 FS Osler Grahame 0 FS Osler Guybon 0 FS Osler Mike 0 FS Peck Lettice -2 FS Pohl Matthew 2T FS Rowbotham Julian -2 FS Sehlabaka Makgetha -1 FS Sorour Jack 0 FS Spies Christo 1T EG Spilsbury Gary 4 FS Spilsbury Jo 0 FS Spilsbury Jocelyn 0 FS Spilsbury Terence 4 FS Stafford-Allen Tilly -2 FS Tsotetsi Japie 1 FS Tsotetsi Masontaha -2 FS vanDoornick Gerhard 1 FS vanDoornick Sven -2 FS vanNiekerk Andre -1 FS vanReenen Lou 0 FS vanReenen Daniel -2 FS vanReenen Lou(Jnr) 1 FS vonMaltitz Esther -2 FS vonMaltitz Friedl 0 FS Ward Mark -2 FS Watson Brett 4 FS Watson Lance 4 FS Watt-Pringle Mark 3 FS Wessels Charles 0 FS Wolmarans Barry -1 FS Yeats Angus 1 FS Young Andries 0 FS Young Cearne -2 FS Young LeRey -2 FS Zybrands Alexander -2 HVD Balestri Allasandro 0 HVD Becker Charlotte tbc HVD Brewer Craig 0 HVD Brice James 0 HVD Brits Graham 0 HVD Buchel Henk -1 HVD Butcher Murray 3 HVD Campbell Mark -1 HVD Cardoso Gujamo -2 HVD Carter Anthony 0 HVD Cheadle Crispin 2 HVD Collis James 1 HVD Collis Natalie -2 HVD Collis Tim 0 HVD Dannhauser Cathy -2 HVD deGersigny Matthew 2 HVD deGroot Theo 0 HVD Dedekind Loda -2 HVD Dewar Andrew 0 HVD Dreyer Eugene -1 HVD duPreez Johan 2 HVD Ellis Cody 1 HVD Ellis Duncan 4 HVD Evans Steven 3 HVD Evans DaveyJnr 4 HVD Evans David -1 HVD Fickling Jonathan -2 HVD Fleming Chris -1 HVD Ford John 0 HVD Frame Tammy -1 HVD Franklin Alistair -1 HVD Gardiner Dusty 0 HVD Gardiner James 0 HVD Gardiner Jessica -2 HVD Gardiner Tracey -2 HVD Grindrod Walter 2 HVD Hackwell Rupert 0 HVD Hamman Lourens 0

HVD Hartley Catherine -1 HVD Hartley John 0 HVD Hartley Wayne 3 HVD Hendricks LeRoux 3 HVD Hensman Sean 0 HVD Hill Jonathan -2 HVD Hill Paul 0 HVD Hill Peter 0 HVD Hirji Iqbal 0 HVD Hirji Karam 0 HVD Hyslop Grant 0 HVD James Craig 1 HVD Kane-Berman Candice 0 HVD Kane-Berman James 4 HVD Kieser Angelique -2 HVD Kotze Chris 0 HVD Kruger Adriaan -1 HVD Laher Zain -2 HVD Latter Kevin 1 HVD Liebenberg Jean-Louise -2 HVD Lurie Warren 3 HVD Mack Dennis -1 HVD Macnab Alistair 0 HVD Macnab Campbell 3 HVD Macnab Gary 0 HVD Macnab Justin 1T HVD Macnab Murray 1 HVD MacRae Brandon 0 HVD MacRae Megan -1 HVD Magacula Jabulane -1 HVD Malik Deepak -2 HVD Malik Rahat -2 HVD Marais Briers -1 HVD Marais Sam 1 HVD Meij Jaco -2 HVD Melville Rick 0 HVD Meyer Melinda -2 HVD Millman Clive 3 HVD Millman Jeffrey -1 HVD Mitchell Richard -2 HVD Morgan-Jones Ced 0 HVD Morgan-Jones Erin 1 HVD Mumbai George 0 HVD Osbourne Richard 0 HVD Pickard Hannes 0 HVD Pilling Karen -1 HVD Pilling Nigel 0 HVD Pohl Richard 4T HVD Pretorius Johan 0 HVD Pretorius Lizelle -2 HVD Rey JP 1 HVD Rhind Nico -2 HVD Rhind Riaan 1 HVD Roscher Shannon -1 HVD Rose Caroline -2 HVD Rose Dominique -2 HVD Russell Ian -2 HVD Segar Sean -2 HVD Shabalala Nathi -2 HVD Sibande Pride -2 HVD Spark Murray 2 HVD Spies Marne -2 HVD Stenberg Bengt -1 HVD Stewart Ian 2 HVD Stewart Stephen 1 HVD Strydom Ray 0 HVD Twort Rory 4 HVD Uys Dirk 0 HVD Uys Dirkie 3 HVD Uys James 0 HVD Uys Nathan 0 HVD Uys Penny -2 HVD vanAgtmaal Viviana -1 HVD vanderMerwe Claudette -2 HVD vanderMerwe Michelle -2 HVD vanderWalt Nicky 0 HVD vanReenen Dirkie 1 HVD vanWyk Charles 2 HVD vanWyk Attie 1 HVD vanWyk Lee-Ann -1 HVD vanWyk Nico 1 HVD vanWyk Rene -1 HVD vanWyk Sarah 2 HVD Vermaak Alida 0 HVD Vermaak Marius 0 HVD Vermaak Sancy 0 HVD Versfeld Martin -1 HVD Visser Ina -1 HVD Vorster Chelbe S HVD Vorster Rudi 0 HVD Walters Tim 1 HVD Weir Dylan -1 HVD Wilson Brandon S HVD Wilson Ron 0 KZN Armstrong Gillespie 5 KZN Armstrong Mark 1 KZN Armstrong Simon 3 KZN Bate Emily -2 KZN Bate Iona -2 KZN Bate Tom 0 KZN Benson Guy 3 KZN Benson Ingrid -1 KZN Benson Mike -1 KZN Benson Philip 2

KZN Caine Forrest 1 KZN Caine Greg 4 KZN Chubb Blake -2 KZN Chubb Brett 2 KZN Chubb Cameron -1 KZN Crowe Matthew 1 KZN Crowe Rupert 3 KZN Culverwell Joe 2 KZN Davies Mark 2 KZN Davies Peter 0 KZN Duma Sbu 3 KZN Elliot Warwick 0 KZN English Donovan 4 KZN English Paula -1 KZN Erskine Andrew 2 KZN Erskine Byron 1 KZN Erskine Dave 1 KZN Erskine Stephen 0 KZN Evennett Geoff 3 KZN Evennett Murray 2 KZN Foster Keith 2 KZN Foster Lionel 2 KZN Fourie Andrea -2 KZN Fourie Geoff -1 KZN Gace Amy 1 KZN Gace Bradley 3 KZN Gace David 0 KZN Gillitt Rob 2 KZN Godleman Lorraine -1 KZN Gorzellok Jason -2 KZN Gowar John 3 KZN Gowar Peter -1 KZN Green Sean 1 KZN Hackland James 3 KZN Hackland Josh 0 KZN Herrington James -2 KZN Hill Clive 3T KZN Holley Andrew 0 KZN Holley Charles 1 KZN Holmes Kate 0 KZN Johnson Andrew 1 KZN Jonsson Andrew tba KZN Jonsson Nick 2 KZN Kean Emma -2 KZN Kean Peter 2 KZN Kippen Graham 1 KZN Leisegang Theo 0 KZN Louw Jonathan 2 KZN MacGibbon Bradley 5 KZN MacGibbon Willy 1 KZN MacLarty Graham 2 KZN Mandy Amy -2 KZN Mandy Harry 3 KZN Mandy Joe 1 KZN Mandy Tikara -2 KZN Marlton Michael-John4 KZN Marlton Rachael -1 KZN McHardy Don 3 KZN McKenzie James 2 KZN McKenzie John -1 KZN McKenzie Peter 1 KZN Mitchell-Innes Rob 1 KZN Nash Andrew 0 KZN Norton Patrick 1 KZN Ortlepp Tanya 0 KZN O`Sullivan Sean 4 KZN O`Sullivan Tysen 0 KZN Pearse Simon tba KZN Peddle Martin 1 KZN Pitt Murray 1 KZN Polkinghorne David 0 KZN Rattray Chris 1 KZN Rees Julia -1 KZN Reitz Deneys 2 KZN Reitz Nick 0 KZN Reitz Olivia -2 KZN Reitz Sahra -2 KZN Roberts James -1 KZN Robertson Bruce 1 KZN Rowe-Setz Cleo -1 KZN Rowe-Setz Dieter 0 KZN Rowe-Setz Gala -1 KZN Shaw Beth 0 KZN Shaw Gordon 1 KZN Shaw Jacquie -1 KZN Skead Vaughan 0 KZN Slater Guy 1 KZN Smith Monique -2 KZN TeRiele James -1 KZN TeRiele Jan -1 KZN Timm Travis 1 KZN Titlestad Pat -1 KZN Uys Catherine 0 KZN Vaccarezza Martin 1 KZN vanEeden Jo -2 KZN vanEeden Tickey 1 KZN vanReenen Russell -1 KZN vonBenecke Brent 1 KZN Williamson Angus 2 KZN Williamson Lauren -2 KZN Wisdom David 1 KZN Zunkel Hayden 0

PRO- SURNAME FIRST H/CAP VINCE NAME 2010




SAPA’S liSt of hAndicAPS PRO- SURNAME FIRST H/CAP VINCE NAME 2010

See where you StAnd in the locAl rAnkingS AS 2011

getS underwAy.SOUTHAFRICANPOLOASSOCIATION

f a s h i o n

3 8 P O L O S A

HUES MOODY

If we resist our passions,

it is more because of

their weak-ness than

because of our strength.

François Duc De La

rocheFoucauLD

Photographer: Minette De VilliersStylist: Crystal BirchHair and make-up: Henry MaritzModels: Noel from Moda Model Management and Frieda from Ice Models

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 3 9

f a s h i o n

HUES

BLUEFrieda

Scarf by Lulu Belle r200Shirt by Pringle r699

Khaki chinos by Pringle r799Handbag by Jimmy Choo r8 990

Boots by Carvela r1 495

NoeLNavy jacket by Ben Sherman r2 350White and blue micro striped shirt by Ben Sherman r699Jeans by Ben Sherman r1 400Watch by Tag Heuer r39 912.28Belt by Pringle r449Shoes by Cole Haan r1 995

f a s h i o n

4 0 P O L O S A

The true man wants

two things: danger and

play. For that reason he

wants woman, as the most dangerous plaything.

Friedrich Nietzsche

BLACK

NoelSuit by Polo R3 799Shirt by Ben Sherman R699Shoes by Kurt Geiger R2 295

FRiedaBlack and blue dress by Slate R1 595Patent boots by Pringle R2 200earrings – stylists own

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 4 1

f a s h i o n

Anger is natural. It’s part of the

force. You just have to learn to hang out

with it.Tori Amos

RED

Noel Shirt by Ben Sherman

R749Belt by Polo R549

Jeans by Ben Sherman R1 400

Boots by Tosoni R1 095

FRiedaRed dress by Slate R1 295

Tan handbag by Jimmy Choo R19 440

Vintage Hermes scarf – stylists own

Tan equestrian boots by Carvela R2 395

F A S H I O N

4 2 P O L O S A

Sensuality often makes

love grow too quickly, so

that the root remains weak

and is easy to pull out.

Friedrich Nietzsche

ORANGE

FriedaKurt Pio equestrian hat from Haas r380

Frilled shirt by Pringle r699earrings from Second Time

around r600

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 4 3

F A S H I O N

It is better to be happy for a moment and be burned up with beauty than to live

a long time and be bored all the while.Helen Keller

GREENNoel Green checked silk cravat by Style Council Price on requestlime green shirt by Polo R650Khaki chinos by Ben Sherman R1 100 Brown desert boots by lacoste R895Watch by Tag Heuer R14 907.90

FRiedaChunky Gilet Knitted top by Slate R745White pin tuc shirt by Pringle R699 Jeans by Polo R599Belt by Pringle R449Brown heels by donna Pliner R2 595Sunglasses by Prada R2 750Suitcase by louis Vuitton R34 500Vintage horse riding hat from Haas R350 diemersfontein wine

For full stockists list see page 8

P o l o s t y l e

4 4 P O L O S A

Riding the clutchCarrying around a handbag at a social event can be a cumbersome undertaking, so it makes sense to present your handbag as a feature of your outfit. This task is easily achieved with this striking clutch purse from Louis Vuitton. Whether you want to funk up a classic LBD or incorporate it into a more contemporary look, heads will turn. Available at Louis Vuitton stores nationwide.

loving youR luggageBags aren’t only about accessorising. Sometimes they are sheer necessity, but that doesn’t mean you need to look anything less than fabulous. The high-impact, graffiti-inspired work of urban artist ‘Crash’ has travelled from subway trains in New York to top galleries around the world. And now Crash art hits the road for a few cultivated travellers: Tumi, the premium lifestyle, accessories and travel brand, introduces the Tumi Tag Limited Edition Collection of travel cases featuring Crash’s distinctive artwork. Available at Tumi stores nationwide.

&Utiliseaccessorise

Beautifully cRafted shoes and

handBags aRe the coRneRstones of

any eye–catching ensemBle.

nouveau RocheNina Roche’s men’s collection boasts Italy’s favourite footwear brands, namely Tod’s, Prada and soon Hogan. You will find in the collection a range of elegant smart shoes for the office and formal occasions as well as casual weekend footwear. Made from the finest materials, you won’t be able to do anything but put your best foot forward. Available at Nina Roche stores nationwide.

into the wildInspired by the wild, free-spirited nature of Brazil with a series of vibrant ethnic styles in an eclectic mix of wonderful textures, this fine footwear mixes colour with a neutral tan. The audacious tribal design is a crazy collision of suede, Elaphe snake, woven raffia and shiny metal studs. Set it ablaze with a matching woven Aztec clutch with stud and swinging pom pom embellishment – this is crowd-pleasing, hedonistic pairing. Available at Jimmy Choo stores nationwide.

Shop 1, High Constantia Shopping Centre, Main Road Constantia 7806, Cape Town, JHB Showroom call 082 411 9588Shop 1, High Constantia Shopping Centre, Main Road Constantia 7806, Cape Town, JHB Showroom call 082 411 9588

L i f e s t y L e

4 6 P O L O S A

GREENSeeing

Taking our planeT inTo consideraTion

when going abouT our daily lives is some–

Thing ThaT should be second naTure. iT ’s

an invesTmenT noT only in your fuTure,

buT in The fuTure of your children and

grandchildren. so invesT wisely.

words by Zoë henry

phoTograph by mineTTe de villiers

Pierre Cronje is an upper income household name. His furniture graces the homes of some of the most influential people in business and politics, and they are investment pieces that can be passed down from generation to generation. And while his latest project may be cut-ting back on the frills, the ‘Simply Pierre’ range still evokes the integrity and pedi-gree that has become synonymous with the Pierre Cronje brand.

“At the moment we are quite elitist in that we only sell to the very wealthy, and we want to become more affordable,” Pierre explains. “We custom make everything specifically for the client, every-thing from the design to the type of wood, and decorators love that. So we’ve been thinking about creating a more affordable range for a while that’s not bespoke. I choose what I’d like to make and what wood I would like to make it out of. And I end up making, hopefully what people still want, but it will end up being a whole lot more affordable. We are still doing bespoke though. We’re not changing. The designs are just much more minimalist and simplified.”

Frances Cronje, Pierre’s wife, nods in approval. “It’s modernised and more contemporary,” she adds. “We don’t do any of the staining we do on our other furniture. It’s quick, efficient and functional.”

When one thinks of a product becoming more affordable, the first thing that may spring to mind is that the manufacturers are cutting back on quality, and the Cronjes want to make it very clear that that’s not what is happening with the ‘Simply Pierre’ range.

“It’s the same wood, and the same level of integrity,” Pierre clarifies. “The products are made to last. It’s not cheaply made, it’s simplified design. The integrity is very important to me. We’re not trying to make a quick buck. We still don’t use chipboard or plywood anywhere.”

Pierre speaks with such passion about his furniture that one might think this was the plan all along, but he actually started out as an engineer.

“I took up woodwork in Std. 4 and loved it. I did it all the way until Matric, not as a subject, but as an extra mural. Then after Matric I initially stud-ied Computer Sciences, all the while buying antique furniture and fixing it up. I then studied civil engineering, and I was an engineer for four years, but I decided that wasn’t what I wanted to do. I wanted to get back to woodwork. I really love antique furniture, I love wood, and I love wood-work. And I really like design.”

And although Pierre allegedly gave up a career in engineering, there is no doubt that his back-ground and affinity for engineering has greatly helped in the arena of furniture design. As we take a tour through the factory, he points out a table that uses an arch as part of its base and explains that the idea was inspired by the work he did on the Bloukrans bridge in his engineering days.

But Pierre Cronje is not a brand that focuses only on manufacturing quality products. It is a cut above the rest because not only does it produce original investment pieces with the highest integ-rity, but they do it with a sense of social and environmental responsibility.

“Going green is something that is all quite dependent on the types of wood we use and where we get the woods from,” Pierre explains. “For example, the yellowwood in the forests near Knysna were so depleted that you aren’t allowed to cut them down anymore. They need time to replenish again, so you can only use wood from there if it’s dying. The indigenous wood we use is very well controlled. Then we do use local oak, which is actually an alien, so from a green point of view that’s not a bad thing.”

When the topic of ‘the trendiness of going green’ comes up, a few chuckles go around the beautifully crafted table before the conversation becomes serious again.

“I think people are becoming more con-scious of sustainability. Sadly it is not as big as it should be in South Africa. For example, Europeans seem to be a lot more aware of the whole ‘green’ issue, but we still have a very long way to go locally. There’s a lot of education that needs to take place, and it won’t just happen overnight. It needs to be more in the press and more in your face. An interesting thing for me is that people are jumping up and down because there is a plan to chop down the pine trees on Table Mountain. The indigenous trees were all chopped down and replaced with mainly gum and pine trees. And now the council has made a move to chop down all this alien vegetation to allow for the fynbos to come back, and ultimately for the forest to come back. Of course it will take a very long time for the forest to re-establish itself, but this is looking at sustainability in the long run, which is the right thing to do. I don’t think people think beyond their lifespan anymore, whereas a few centuries ago people did. They would start building a cathedral that they knew would take 200 years to build, and they knew they weren’t going to see it finished in their lifetime, but they started it anyway. They used to lay down oak for 80 to 100 years to cure. It was for their grandchildren. Nowadays we tend to only think for ourselves.”

There’s no denying that the earth is in serious trouble. Many of us need the mind shift that Pierre Cronje, both the man and the company, have made.

“There wasn’t one thing that happened that made us make the decision to ‘go green’. It hap-pened slowly. It’s awareness.” Frances nods in agreement once more and adds: “If you’re aware of your environment and your world and you’re seeing this destruction, I think you get to a point where you ask yourself ‘what can I do?’ Especially if you are working with natural materials, it just makes sense that you don’t contribute to this plundering system.”

A U T U M N 2 0 1 1 4 7

L i f e s t y L e

Going green is something

that is all quite dependent on the types of

wood we use and where we get the

woods from.

F I N A N C E

4 8 P O L O S A

offshore investments

By Brian Béchet

In the previous issue we looked at whether the funds that South African residents held outside of South Africa were in fact ‘legal’ and ended with the prospect of examining factors that would simplify and minimise the risks of investing offshore.

Assuming that since reading the last article you have satisfied yourself and your heirs that all foreign assets are thoroughly legitimate and disclosed to all relevant authorities, now is the time to not only be considering how you should manage those assets, but also whether to add to them.

Your first decision should be to analyse why the money is there and not here. Subsequent to the exchange control and SARS amnesty some years ago, one of the harsh realisations for many who had previously squirreled money abroad and then taken amnesty, was the change in their income tax status. In terms of the residency-based income tax principle, they now had to pay income tax on income that was earned abroad, which generally remained abroad. The cumulative effect of this meant that there was a strain on their local rand-based resources. This leads to the concept of ‘matching’ one’s assets with one’s liabilities. If you are considering spending the rest of your life in South Africa and continuing to incur liabilities in rands, then analyse your ability to meet those liabilities out of your rand-based income. Alternately, accept the fact that you are going to repatriate sufficient foreign funds on a regular basis to assist in meeting the local liabilities.

A sound reason to retain and add to assets abroad is the fundamental investment principle of diversification of risk. Pure asset category risk

diversification is arguably available right here in South Africa, from equities to bonds to property to cash. Even within those categories, from resources to retail to engineering to technology; from direct holdings to hedge funds to all manner of other derivatives, they are all available right here. The risks that you diversify out of with foreign funds include country-specific risks such as currency risk, economic stability risk and the more difficult to measure, emotional risk.

Accepting then, that you should indeed allocate a percentage of your assets to foreign shores, then the suggestion is that you’ll manage those assets in the same manner that you would manage your local portfolio, i.e. spread between different asset classes. One of the primary deci-sions is to select the currency in which you will measure your foreign wealth. This is not suggest-ing that all of your assets should be invested in either a US Dollar or a sterling environment. Quite the contrary, you would preferably achieve a spread of assets amongst various currencies, but overall, measure your foreign assets in a particular currency.

Thereafter you should not be timid about making investments into foreign equities, either via bespoke portfolios or via the huge selection of global funds that are available.

Depending on your personal risk profile, you would allocate varying percentages of the for-eign assets between the classic equity funds at the higher risk end, through balanced funds in the medium risk area and into higher-yielding government bonds and utilities at the cautious end of the risk spectrum.

Critical to your investment management strategy is the selection of the correct professional

expertise. How to select your foreign investment manager may be a minefield in itself – there are far more of them available internationally than here at home. Some of the essential criteria to consider include how often their senior people visit South Africa. There is no substitute for face-to -face meetings, preferably with the person who pulls the investment trigger. By now there are sufficient South Africans who have relationships with international investment managers, and word- of-mouth referrals from friends are invaluable. The trust that develops from personal relationships plays a massive role in your ability to sleep at night, knowing that your foreign funds are being professionally looked after.

Costs of managing money will always be an issue, and here you can generally establish the ‘going rate’ and seek to avoid ‘initial fees’ and other ‘admin fees’ that are not always spelled out in initial encounters with the marketing people.

Other risk considerations will include what exposure one might accept to emerging markets as opposed to the developed markets; the construction of a bespoke portfolio of individual shares by a reputable private client stockbroker versus the use of global funds. A general rule will be to stick to those names with which you are familiar, and that come with a sound recommen-dation from reliable friends or associates. n

Licenced Financial Services Provider

MiniMal risk

INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT

For further details please contact Paul Heber or Ed Harvey in our London office. T +44 (0)20 7659 8000E [email protected] [email protected]

www.savoyim.com

Savoy Investment Management Limitedis a keen and proud supporter of Polo in Southern Africa

t h e f i n a l w h i s t l e

The FAQs of LifeWORDS By Zane HenRy

ILLUSTRaTIOn By MaRK RUST

5 0 P O L O S A

Mysteries, whether old or new, scare the dinges out of us. The fear of the unknown is a natural and ancient surviv-al mechanism, but it need cripple us no longer. Nay, it need not!

This is an excerpt from the FAQ of Life, compiled with detailed, thoroughly researched and highly dependable answers by the foremost authorities on everything in the world ever. Let go of the fear, embrace the knowledge.

Why are you not allowed to use your cell-phone on an airplane?It is a common misconception that the problem with cellphones aboard airplanes is that the sig-nal interferes with the navigation equipment. The truth is that in 1998 an air steward named Shirley Davis received a phone call from her best friend saying that her boyfriend and fellow air steward, Peter Mellman, was cheating on her. Davis flew into a rage and flung her stiletto at Mellman who was standing close to the open door of the cockpit but missed him by inches. The sharp heel hit the pilot in the back of the head, causing him to pass out with his head pushing the joystick and sending the plane into a nosedive. Everybody died. Cellphones have since been banned on all aircraft.

Why is it called a chukka?The noble sport of polo was invented in the Middle Ages by an idle serf named Ronald James Polo who was out plowing his feudal lord’s fields with his best friend Charles Chukka one summer’s day. It hit lunchtime, Ronald grabbed an apple to throw to Charles, but it fell out of his hand and rolled to the ground. He grabbed a branch from a nearby birch tree, reached down and thwacked the apple to Charles, who promptly thwacked it back to him with a branch of his own, saying, “I don’t much like apples.” Ronald said, “Oi Charlie, I think we’re onto something.” Because Ronald was the taller of the two, the sport was named after him. Charles just got the Chukka.

What do you call the spaces between the teeth of a comb?Plinglets. Really. It’s a thing.

Why do men go bald as they get older?Men do not ever stop growing taller; they just grow at a reduced pace. When they reach a cer-tain age, the combination of their growth and the effect of gravity on hair follicles causes the latter to retreat into the scalp. So the hairs are there, they’re just underneath the skin.

Is it true that elephants can’t jump?Yes and no. The modern elephant as we know it is theoretically capable of jumping, but is afraid to. The reason for this fear is that its prehistoric ances-tor – the mammoth – became extinct through that very practice. The King of the Mammoths held an ill-advised jumping competition in the year 16BC. He counted until three and the entire mammoth population jumped at the same time. Their weight, under the momentum of their jump, was too much for their legs and their knees snapped. They couldn’t forage and died out soon after. No pachyderm ever jumped after that.

How did the earwig get its name?The earwig has very delicate antennae that are used to communicate with other members of the species. These antennae and their filigree are so sensitive they can pick up their cousins’ vibrations from con-siderable distances. An ancient society of European assassins discovered that if the insect is placed close enough to a person’s mouth, it picks up the speech vibrations and automatically sends it to the closest earwig. The assassins found this a valuable property and started carrying the insects around in their wigs. How they translated the messages carried on by the insects remains a mystery. n

Mas_GranCab-18 Play 225x290 ctpPRINT.indd 1 2011/03/16 12:35:23 PM

“It’s time to give a little bit of your time to others.”

Andre Agassi

Elegance is an attitude

Longines supports the Andre Agassi Foundation

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