Fredd Kambo, Chairperson of the Nairobi Polo Club, anticipates another thrilling and engaging season ahead, with the emergence of more players expected to add excitement to the sport.
Kambo revealed that preparations for the upcoming season are already underway, expressing optimism that favorable weather conditions will allow for the organization of entertaining matches.
“We’re expecting the same level of competition…hopefully, we’ll have good weather. Our season kicks off in May, so our veteran players are gearing up. Today marks the beginning of horse vaccinations as players take a break. We’re eagerly anticipating another season of exciting polo,” Kambo remarked.
Reflecting on the just-concluded season, Kambo deemed it a success despite encountering challenges such as heavy rains in January, which disrupted planned tournaments intended to conclude the 2023/24 season.
“From a Kenya Polo standpoint, it was a great season. We managed to host every tournament we had planned, but unfortunately, heavy rains in January affected our schedule. However, we’re grateful to have rescheduled some tournaments for this month, particularly the Soldier’s Salute, which holds significant importance for us,” Kambo explained.
He also acknowledged the contributions of various players throughout the season, highlighting the exceptional performances of Michelle Morgan, Alice Owambo, and Jamie Excel.
In a thrilling season finale, Kambo, playing for the Tusker Malt team, secured victory in the Chairman’s Cup, defeating SBM Bank with a score of 6-5F.
The closely contested match saw Tusker Malt take an early lead before SBM Bank fought back, leading to a nail-biting final chukka where Tusker Malt emerged victorious with a last-second goal.
Describing the match as a fitting conclusion to the season, Kambo expressed satisfaction with the competitive nature of the final, emphasizing the importance of such close contests in maintaining the sport’s excitement.
SBM Bank’s Vishal Somaia was honored as the Most Valuable Player (MVP), while his pony, Snazzy, was awarded the title of the best pony of the match.
