by Tom Bastek
Last updated: 4:00 PM ET, Tue June 17, 2014
Photo courtesy Splash News
The Royals were out in force for Father's Day, celebrating by taking in by watching new father, Prince William play against his younger brother, Prince Harry in a charity polo match.
The time honored game isn't just for the elite overseas. Speaking from personal experience, the kids will absolutely love it when the horses come thundering by or when they get to do the divot stomp.
There are plenty of places to catch a chukka or 7 and have some fun. Here are some of the best places to catch a match.
Brandywine Polo Club
Kennett Square, Pa. is home to the 300-acre Brandywine Polo Club which takes their name from the valley in which it lies. They are one of the oldest polo clubs on the east coast going all the way back to 1950. Their facilities include two irrigated fields, a practice field, outdoor arena, enclosed members area, covered pavilion, hitting cage, and stables for 100 horses. They hold matches every Friday Night and Sunday afternoon during the summer. They also offer a school where you can learn to play the game.
The Aiken Polo Club
Historic Whitney Field is a fitting place for the Aiken Polo Club as they are certainly historic. In 1882, Aiken, S.C. was known for being a health resort. Those "Yankees" from the North found that it was also a great place to winter.
They would come down South, bring along with them all of their outdoor activities, and then when the winter was over, pack it up and take it back up North. So henceforth came the early introduction on Polo to the Aiken area. As a matter of fact, Aiken County may be the Polo capital of the South. They boast nine recognized polo clubs and 40 fields and the area attracts more and more polo players every year. They run a spring and fall season as well as host three USPA cups.
Oak Brook Polo Club
For over 80 years, the Oak Brook Polo Grounds in Oak Brook, IL has hosted the Oak Brook Polo Club. For 25 years, the Club hosted the US Open, the premiere polo tournament in the country. The group plays about 5 times a summer and shares a 270 acre site with the Oak Brook Bath and Tennis Club and the Oak Brook Golf Club.
Gulfstream Polo Club
With a history that dates back to 1923, the Gulfstream Polo Club has been bringing polo matches, cups and leagues to the Lake Worth, Fla. area. They have a huge facility with seven polo fields, two stick and ball fields, and enough stables for 540 horses!
Most people don't think West Palm Beach and polo, but they run tournaments year round, and have additional festivals throughout the year. There is no charge for admission and tailgating is encouraged.
California Polo Club
Originally formed in 1876 and disbanding about 4 years later, The California Polo Club reorganized and opened in 1995. Located just minutes from Hollywood, they offer up lessons and matches six days a week. In addition to a regulation size arena and field, they have a full service horse training/boarding facility, year round club activities and a dedicated teaching facility. They also have a full tack shop so even if you don't want to play, you can look like you do.
Royalty or not, Polo is a great sport and change of pace from the usual. There are normally no charges to go and they love tailgating. Put this on your summer to-do list!
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