THE inaugural Land Rover Durban highgoal will bring spectacular equestrian action to the Durban Shongweni Club from 27 to 29 May, where the country’s top polocrosse players are sure to deliver some of the best action and excitement this growing sport has to offer.
“This fast-paced, high intensity sport is such a treat for both spectators and players alike, and the highgoal is the pinnacle of the polocrosse calendar. We are so excited to be bringing this level of polocrosse to KwaZulu-Natal and look forward to this becoming an annual fixture at Shongweni, KZN’s premiere equestrian club,” said event organiser and Shongweni Polocrosse club chairman, Brent Von Benecke.
There will be eight teams competing for the top spot – four men’s and four ladies’ teams – consisting of six quality players each. Each competitor in polocrosse is given a handicap which indicates his or her skill level, ranging from 0 to 10 with 10 being one of the best in the world and 0 a beginner.
As this is a highgoal tournament, the combined handicaps of the six teammates must average between 42 and 45 (out of a possible 60), which means that the teams are of World Cup-level quality.
As well as being sponsors of the event, Land Rover Durban is also sponsoring two of the participating teams – Land Rover Durban – Team Evoque (ladies’ team) and Land Rover Durban Men, Aubrey Strauss (men’s team).
“Several of the teams entered include level 10 handicap players, of which there are only about 15 in the world. This ensures that the competition is fierce and all the participants are determined to win the first Land Rover Durban HIGHGOAL tournament,” said Von Benecke.
There will be polocrosse action every day from 8am to 4.30pm with six to seven games per day. Each game will be divided into six-minute chukkas with the men’s and women’s team alternating. The format ensures a fast-paced, action-packed game, entertaining for even the novice spectator.
There will be a number of vendors on the outskirts, jumping castles for the children as well as evening entertainment for those wishing to stay after the polocrosse action.