Arena is the second most well-known version of polo after the traditional one played in grass fields. This variation of the sport of kings has its own set of rules. When enjoying your Polo Night experience, these are some of the Arena Polo rules you need to know:
Arena polo fields are much smaller than grass polo fields. They are usually 100 yards long and 50 yards wide with a sand interior. The playing area surrounded by wood boards about 1.5 m high. These wooden walls around the field pose an extra challenge for players, who must think and move fast during the game. The ball usually bounces on the walls, so players must be able to react quickly always taking into account the right of way. Players cannot cross the line of the ball, and in fact this is the most frequent foul.
In arena polo, each team has three players. Player number 1 is the striker; number 2 is the center and number 3 plays at the back. The skills and performance of players is measured by their handicap.
Because the size of the field is much smaller, speed is a distinctive factor in arena polo. In arena polo the game is shorter, consisting of 4 chukkers of 7 minutes and ½ each, whereas in grass polo the game lasts 6 chukkers. Every chukker is packed with short-range shots, fast moves and action. Intervals are useful not only for players, but also for horses, their strategic allies. These few minutes between chukkers also allow players to change horses.
We hope these rules help you better understand arena polo during your next Polo Night experience!
