Polo is one of the most charming and enthusiastic sports in the world. Long ago this sport came into the sub-continent from neighbouring states of Central Asia.
No much attention was paid in the promotion of this game, thus it could not be stretched out at grass root level. Mostly, the Polo clubs across the country are run by the executive class including army officials, bureaucrats and businessman. Owing to heavy
expenditures of the game, this sport could not be introduced at low level and still it is inaccessible to the common person.
The prices of ponies (Polo horses) are in millions of rupees while the membership fees of clubs are also unaffordable for middle class people.
Polo start roots back to 6th century BC in Central Asia, while the first matches were played in Persia 2500 years ago. At the beginning it was played among the tribes of Central Asian states, however later it was adopted to train the fighting
troops.
There are differences among the historians about the development of the game whether it was moved from Persia to Central Asia or from Central Asia to Persia. However, following this expansion, Polo further advanced towards China, Tibet, Arab States and the
Sub-continent.
In sub-continent, Polo firstly reached in Chitral region, which is now part of Pakistan. It was played between the villages and tribes of Gilgit-Baltistan. Polo was also used to settle down clashes among the tribes and states in the region.
Polo as a friendly competition started at various tourists’ places in Northern Areas, particularly the world’s highest Polo ground at Shandur, which is 3700 metres above the sea level. This ground is renowned across the globe due to its breath taking sights.
The famous Shandur Gala at the roof of the world is organized in July of every year which attracts scores of tourists from in and outside the country.
Although Pakistan Polo team has not won any international tournament so far, but Polo at national level is played widely in all parts of the region particularly at clubs level under the flag of Pakistan army.
Vast range of local and national level tournaments are organised in the country by the Pakistan Polo Association (PPA). It also arranges international trips for the players to polish their skills as per the international standards.
Some of the famous Polo clubs in Pakistan include Abbottabad Polo-Club, Balochistan Polo-Club, Karachi Polo-Club, Lahore Polo-Club and Peshawar Polo-Club.
Polo at national level is lacking the support of the government and business side although both of them can help promote any game in a country.
The first step in the promotion of Polo in Pakistan is to flourish the game at grass root level through clubs and professional academies. The teams playing at national level should be equipped with modern facilities and techniques. Unless the game is not
promoted at grass root level by government and business sector, Polo cannot revive the glory of past.
Tags: