The Gaucho International Polo event has returned to London for the second year in succession, uniting high-octane polo and live world famous music to produce a unique event.

Hosted by the O2 arena in London, Gaucho International Polo – which was this year sponsored by Mantis Collection - has evolved into the ultimate celebration of Argentinean sporting and cultural heritage.

The 2012 event consisted of two international arena polo matches merged with exclusive performances from Grammy award winning band, Bajofondo. 

Bajofondo, who have put ‘electrotango’ firmly on the world music map, played throughout the tournament, creating a thrilling blend of polo and performance. 

Mantis Collection – a key sponsor of the event - was represented by sales and marketing direction Paul Gardiner, left, and development director Bernabe Tesouro

The matches on the evening saw Scotland narrowly beat Welbeck Group’s Ireland by 15-12 and culminated in the titanic clash between IG Index’s England and Argentina, pitting Britain’s finest player, Jamie Morrison against the Royals’ favourite star, Nacho Figueras.

This exciting match saw England finally triumph with a 1-0 victory on penalties, after full time finished at 15-15. 

Jeff Ward, general manager, Cannizaro House, and Mantis Director Colin Emson were also in attendance

Gaucho International Polo

The Gaucho International Polo offered a true Argentine festival, with tastings from some of the country’s finest wine producers, brought to the event by leading authority, Wines of Argentina.

There was also a fun and charitable twist to the event in the form of ‘The White Jeans Party’.

What to wear to polo matches has often been hotly debated amongst the style conscious, but white jeans are winning in the fashion stakes with enthusiasts such as Prince Harry donning them at matches around the world.

In keeping with this, every guest who arrived at the event wearing a pair saw a pound donated to the BFF (British Forces Foundation).                 

 

Paul Gardiner talks to Breaking Travel News at the HPA Gaucho International

Arena polo

Arena polo is an emerging trend in the polo world and takes place on a smaller pitch with only three players per team rather than the usual four, creating a fast-paced and spectator friendly game.

With simpler rules and tickets starting at just £25, it is an accessible way of introducing Londoners to Argentina’s most celebrated sporting tradition.

“Gaucho are delighted to be working with the HPA to create an annual International Polo match at the O2- I hope that it will grow to rival the success of the former HPA Cartier International Polo,” said Gaucho’s UK operations director, Martin Williams.

 

Mantis director Colin Emson at the HPA Gaucho International