In July, fresh from having scrubbed up for Wimbledon and Henley, we decided to hit one of the other society events of the British sporting calendar - the Cartier International Polo day at the Guards Polo Club in Windsor Great Park - with about 20,000 other people and (apparently) various celebrities (as featured in OK magazine the following week). The warm-up match (photos above) was a tight game between Hurlingham Polo Club and the Prince of Wales' team - sadly neither William nor Harry made an appearance although Charles was watching from the royal box (top centre - cream jacket).
At half time we ventured out into the field together with the crowds to stomp the divots - and Regan practised her royal wave in case it was needed.
Then it was time for the match of the day - England v New Zealand - preceded by one of the oddest sights seen on a polo field for some time. The Daily Telegraph called it "a collision of diverse cultures" and noted that one of the most expressive performers was a "pale, wiry ginger-haired man".
The New Zealand team, horses included, were kitted out in the Silver Fern and put up a brave fight - coming back from 7-1 down to draw level at 7-7 - before ultimately falling to a tough English team.
A great day out and I left as a fan - polo is surprisingly fast and exciting to watch.
M
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