The Garden Island In an effort to preserve the game of polo on the island, Kauai Polo Club members have decided to start up a junior program that kicks off Aug. 27 in ‘Anini. “We just want to introduce a
The Garden Island
In an effort to preserve the game of polo on the island, Kauai Polo Club members have decided to start up a junior program that kicks off Aug. 27 in ‘Anini.
“We just want to introduce a group of youths to polo and teach the basics of the game,” program director Bette Layton said.
Aug. 27 is the beginning of a series of four clinics, which are slated for the following three Sundays: Sept. 3, Sept. 10 and Sept. 17.
Instructors for the program include Kauai Polo Club veteran players like Kamalu Sheldon, Carlos Elzaurdia, Ronnie Tongg, Stuart Mackenzie and Krista and Ron Bonaguidi.
“Students will be asked to come to the polo field 45 minutes before the match to work with the instructor,” Layton said. “Students will observe the match with an instructor. There will be a one hour clinic after the match.”
On Sunday, Layton said Kamalu Sheldon will teach students about the ins and outs of the game, especially during the match.
To become a part of the program, youths must be between 8 and 18 years of age and have access to a horse. Adults must accompany the student at all sessions. Equipment, such as saddles and bridles, will be available for students to check out. Only 10 students will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. Deadline for phone registration is Aug. 25.
Wilbur O’Ferrall from the Polo Training Foundation will give a follow-up clinic in late October or early November.
“He has quite a schedule and was not available to come during the time clinics were scheduled,” Layton said.
If interested in joining the program, contact instructor Stuart Mackenzie at 823-8937.
