Most polo players agree that a horse accounts for nearly 70 % of their performance. This statement shows how important polo pony training is when it comes to play polo professionally.
Polo ponies are unique horses that combine several breeds. Argentine horses are worldwide famous and are chosen by the best polo clubs and players around the globe. In fact, this country has its own breed: the Argentine polo pony, which resulted from crossing thoroughbred horses with the local criollo horse.
Polo pony training begins at the age of three and lasts from six months to two years. Horses are selected from a very young age according to their ability and physical characteristics. They have to be strong enough to be trained in arena fields and to gallop non-stop for about seven minutes at different speeds. They are trained to be responsive to the rider legs, and to stop and change directions quickly.
Considering that horses reach their full performance at the age of six or seven, we can conclude that it takes time to produce a polo pony that loves to play the game. Special care and love from their trainers and riders help to build a strong bond with ponies and enable them to perform at their best.
