2005 Dressage at Devon

Not for the Faint-Hearted: Pony-Clubbers Demo Polocrosse at Devon

Unlike the discipline and precision required by classical dressage, this hot, new sport demands speed, agility and stamina

Polocrosse is neither nouveau nor classic, new world or old. It is a blending of two sports: old world Polo and new world Lacrosse, the modern form of which took shape in Australia in the1930s. It is played on horseback, using a unique racquet that resembles a butterfly net. And riders with daring are getting swept up in the excitement of the sport that is just taking off in this country. Pony club members from Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey will demonstrate this exhilarating game at Dressage at Devon on Saturday, October 1st and Sunday, October 2nd. The show opens on September 27th and runs through October 2nd.

According to pony clubber Jessi Brown of Chester County, one of the participants in the upcoming demonstration, Polocrosse can be a very fast game. At the advanced level it requires almost constant cantering and galloping. “It is so much fun to be flying down the field next to another horse, to have 3000 pounds within four feet of you. You have to be in control.” The excitement appeals to the 17-year-old, and has given her a good opportunity to develop a strong relationship with her 10-year old quarter horse, Dutton. “Polocrosse requires a close understanding with your horse that has to be second nature. On the field, you have to be able to concentrate on the ball and the game, not to think about your riding.” This is a game, she explains, that requires a lot of strategy as well.

Polocrosse is gaining in popularity in this country, and is developing a big following among pony clubbers. Brown has seen a rise in the number of pony club teams, as well as tournaments and games played locally. Seven players ages 14 to 20, representing three local pony clubs, will participate in the Dressage at Devon demonstration, which will take place at approximately 6:30 pm on Saturday, October 1st and 3 pm on Sunday, October 2nd in the Dixon Oval at the Devon Horse Show Grounds, Route 30, in Devon, PA.

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