The Argentine Open Polo Championship, the Triple Crown, and gold medals are traditions of polo in Argentina. These competitions are highly significant in the country. Polo is a sport with a rich history in Argentina. Names like Mariano Aguerre, Alberto Pedro Heguy, Juan Martín Nero, Gonzalo Pieres, and Facundo Pieres are well-known in polo.
Pablo Mac Donough and Adolfo Cambiaso are also important figures. Cambiaso is considered the greatest polo player in history. All of them have left a mark on this sport.
Although these elements seem emblematic of Argentina, polo, now a flagship sport of the country, has its roots far from these lands. In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about the history of polo. We also provide recommendations for related experiences and tours.
The Origins of Polo
Polo has a millenary history. According to records, this sport originated in Persia around the 6th century B.C.
Its name comes from "pulu," which means "ball" in Tibetan. This game, which began with Iranian tribes, spread across Asia. Eventually, it reached China, where it became a pastime exclusively for royalty. It was even played with elephants in India, where it became very popular.
Polo arrives to Argentina
Polo was introduced to Argentina by English immigrants in the late 19th century, who were drawn by the purebred Argentine horses and the men skilled enough to play the sport. British pioneer Francis Balfour was one of the key figures in Argentina, where the first polo match was played around 1875.
The sport grew among the English aristocracy in Buenos Aires, culminating in the founding of the Hurlingham Club in 1888, known for winning the first Argentine Open Polo Championship. The creation of the Argentine Polo Association in 1921 further boosted its development throughout the country, with local players excelling in international competitions.
The Rise of Argentine Polo
The performance of Argentine teams began to stand out in European tournaments. In 1924, Argentina won the Olympic gold medal, defeating the United States and the United Kingdom. This established the country as a powerhouse in the world of polo.
Argentine Dominance in Polo
Argentina solidified its dominance in polo with the Argentine Triple Crown, which includes the Hurlingham Open, the Tortugas Open, and the Palermo Open. In 1987, after winning the Polo World Cup in Buenos Aires, Argentina reaffirmed its leadership in the sport.
International stars like Adolfo Cambiaso and Facundo Pieres continue to place Argentina at the center of the polo world, making this sport synonymous with elegance and professionalism.
Polo Tours in Argentina
If after reading about the history of polo, you are eager to experience it, there are several options you can consider. Polo Day allows you to enjoy a full day of polo near Buenos Aires, with lessons, matches, and the chance to play yourself. If you prefer a night experience, Polo Night is ideal for watching a professional match under the stars. And if you’re looking for something more exclusive, the Polo Tour at Estancia Villa María offers a full day of polo at a historic ranch.
Each of these options will let you experience the passion for polo in a unique and authentic setting. Argentine polo is more than just a sport; it’s a tradition that combines culture, history, and above all, emotion.