Nothing matches an afternoon of polo in the tropical surroundings of Barbados. Beautiful ladies in haute couture, squired by an array of dashing men, gather to watch the sport of kings while sipping champagne amidst the sound of hoof beats. There is also afternoon tea, a fully stocked bar --- or in Bajan parlance, "bar solid" ? --- and most often a delicious Bajan buffet is served. It is truly an afternoon of civilized fun for the international set.

Once a local pastime enjoyed by a few enthusiasts, the game of polo is now an important and well respected event on international sporting and social calendars. Not to be played by the faint of heart, polo is a very enthralling spectator sport. Apart from interclub matches which start in January, there is a 14 goal Colombian Emeralds Barbados Open in March this year, as well as visits from teams from South Africa, Argentina, the USA and England.

The quality and profile of Barbados polo as improved over the years with much better facilities being offered. Apart from the Barbados Polo Club at Holders Hill, three new polo fields have opened at Waterhall, Lion Castle and Clifton, all of which offer breathtaking views over rural Barbados. The influx and recruitment of top quality, high handicap overseas players has given the local teams the opportunity to play alongside some high quality polo players. The polo ponies have also improved significantly, most of which have been imported from well-known polo breeding countries like Argentina.

The Barbados Polo season runs from January to April this year.