Whether on grass or snow, the rules are the same. Each team has four players consisting of two offensive players, a captain and a defender, although in reality all four players are supposed to be able to flex at any time to send the snow polo ball into the goal. The game lasts four (but sometimes up to six) seven-minute quarters, known as “chukka”, and between each, players can change polo horses. And they do it with the greatest grace, seemingly floating from one horse to the next, barely touching the ground in between, while the horses dance enthusiastically, tapping their hooves and snorting in anticipation. And the most obvious rule of all: the team with the highest score wins.
It’s a game that hasn’t really changed much in its 2,000+ year history. Originating in Persia in 600 BCE, it quickly evolved from a training tool for warriors to a game favored by the nobility. However, it was not until the 19th century that it gained worldwide fame, spreading from India to Argentina, and finally to the United States in 1876. Along the way, it also attracted many famous players, including Prince Harry and Prince William. , their father, King Charles, and their late grandfather, Prince Philip. Even American “royalty” has been known to play a game or two, including Walt Disney, who played with his counterpart, Will Rogers.
But in Kitzbühel, it was not just the VIPs who came to witness this demonstration of human and animal athletics. The surrounding grounds are entirely open to the public and are completely free.
“It was very important for us to work with the tourist office. We make the public space free so everyone can come and see,” Gaudenzi said. “I think it’s very important because we want people to access this sport.”