Swiss Polo Association
The Swiss Polo Association (SPA) is the parent organisation of all Polo Clubs in Switzerland. Its main task according to the statutes is the representation of the interests of Swiss Polo Clubs towards governing authorities and international polo associations such as the Federation of International Polo (FIP) and the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA).
The SPA establishes tournament regulations and is responsible for the organisation of the national championships. This task however has been delegated to the organising clubs.
The activities of the Swiss National Polo Team are coordinated by the SPA. Last, but not least, the SPA has the important task of defining the handicap of each player in Switzerland.
History
No archaeological finds or ancient manuscripts exist to help us trace the origin of the sport of polo. However, the available research locates the birthplace of this fascinating sport as Persia, in around 600 B.C. From there, polo spread to northern India, where it is still cherished and held in high esteem. Initially the game was played at royal residences and in military circles. British army officers only discovered the game much later, around 1850, and took the sport back with them from the Orient to Europe and westwards.
Rules
At first sight, polo looks fairly simple. However, the written rules of the game, governing all the moves and rights of way, are voluminous. The safety of the ponies and their riders are accorded the highest priority, in addition to balanced, competitive and fluid play.
To give a broad understanding of polo, and make it possible to follow the game, the main rules are outlined below. The full set of rules of the Hurlingham Polo Association, valid internationally, can be seen via here
Our members
