The Port Harcourt Polo Club says it is ready to host players from within and outside Nigeria in what promises to be a glorious polo tournament in January.
It is the NPA Port Harcourt Polo Tournamnet, which will hold from January 14 to20, 2024 and according to the cub’s Vice President, Henry Agboja, who is also the tournament chairman, many other the activities have been lined up to make a polo festival.
Unveiling plans for the tournament yesterday, Agboja said the event would have in attendance experienced players from all over Nigeria, in addition to foreign imports from England, Argentina and South Africa, among others.
With the theme, “Bonding beyond challenges,” Agboja said the tournament would be an excellent mixture of polo and entertainment, stressing that Rivers State would be the polo world’s centre of attention as Port Harcourt hosts the array of international stars.
“The polo tournament will portray Rivers State in positive light; you will witness good game of polo and we need the support of everybody to have an excellent atmosphere.
“On our part, we will be ready to offer a lifetime experience to players and visitors alike.”
Also speaking on the tournament, Port Harcourt Polo Club President, Ebi Diriyai, commended sponsors for identifying with the tournament, adding that since assuming office in July this year, the management committee has been working round the clock to organise a great event.
“We are creating the ambience and what will benefit our sponsors. We want to show that Rivers State is safe and have an exciting tournament, game of games; we decided to carry the public along, take polo to the public and encourage participation… we want to play chukkas in universities, take younger generations into the game of polo,” he said.
Diriyai appealed for more sponsors to come on board to sponsor the event and commended Rivers State government for its support over the years.
Noting that the stage is set for a memorable tournament, Dr Ikenna Nobolisa, who represented the tournament manager, disclosed that Port Harcourt Polo Club has one of the best pitches in Africa, pointing out that the lush green turf would be in superb state ahead of competition among various teams.
He revealed that competition would hold in four different cups, including medium, low and beginners’ categories, saying it would give fans and visitors opportunity to understand how the game is played.
