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Franshoek Polo School
The Franshoek Polo School is situated 26km from the town of Ficksburg, which was the heart of Free State polo for many years. This boarded field is set at the head of a beautiful valley, tree-lined with a sandstone mountain backdrop. The 100 year old oak trees shading the pony lines give a majestic air to the venue.
As one of the more established polo clubs in South Africa, Franshoek offers a unique polo experience. Rod Gutridge - the resident polo professional - has played professionally all his adult life. He spent five years in England playing with Prince Charles for the Windsor Park team and played in the renowned "Les Diables Bleus" with ten goal Memo Gracido in Palm Beach. He has also captained the Springbok Polo side successfully. He is currently an HPA affiliated coach an international professional umpire. For 10 years now, the Franshoek Polo School has hosted many clinics and introduced the game to many new players.
Activities here are abundant with thai cookery courses, thai massages, art courses, hypnotherapy, bird watching over 259 species, fishing in any one of the four beautiful lakes surrounding the lodge, and game drives in the neighbouring Thaba Thabo game farm can be done from a safari vehicle, on horseback or on foot. A two day hike into the Kututsa Hills is a popular choice where one can visit caves and dinosaur fossils.
Riding and Polo
There are 45 horses living on Franshoek Farm. Most of these are Thoroughbreds retired from the racetrack and enjoying a second career as polo ponies. The horses are not stabled, but run free on the farm in a herd. Most have very gentle natures and can be ridden by all levels of players from beginners to high goal. One can venture into the neighbouring game farm for a longer ride away from the polo pitch.
The Polo Package
Includes 3 horse outings - stick and ball in the morning and two practice chukkas in the afternoon OR two stick and ball sessions and an outride in the mountains or tailor made agenda - plus two tuition sessions per day. Tuition can include, work on a wooden horse, theory, rules and umpiring sessions as well as lots of individual stick and ball work with the coach. Scheduled club practice chukkas are played every Wednesday and Saturday.
Franshoek Polo School Prices - please call for up to date prices.
Booking information: to talk to Rose about the polo in South Africa please email us or phone us on 020 7622 5114.
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Intermediate
