The Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup Final at Cowdray Park

Last Sunday saw the 2016 Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup Final for the British Open Polo Championship take place at Cowdray Park. Renowned as one of the world’s most prestigious polo tournaments spectators watched as reigning champions King Power Foxes rode to victory once again, beating locally based team La Indiana.

Having worked with Cowdray Park Polo Club since April, all the team at Kitch have had a chance to experience the high action sport first hand, impressed with the sheer speed and skill of both the players and ponies, we are now hooked.

The Gold Cup took place over four weeks, with the world’s best players, their many ponies and incredible support teams setting up base near Cowdray for the duration. The tournament culminated in an impressive (and thankfully sun filled) Final, including not only a thrilling match but also a spectacular display from the RAF Falcons who jumped right into the Final, landing mid-pitch in front of over 14,000 spectators.

Visitors also enjoyed Penny Farthing polo in the morning (that really is a thing), all day shopping in the busy retail village, bars, food and a mini funfair for the children. Our favourite was definitely Jack Wills’ Mucky Pheasant Bar, as featured in Tatler. And much to the team’s delight there were also some special guests attending, including the very dapper David Gandy, who was a guest of Aspinal of London. Although this little guy from Brooke, the event’s official charity partner did get most of our attention…

The highlight of the day was definitely seeing the teams enter battle for the coveted Gold Cup trophy, an incredible display of sportsmanship and skill was showcased by both teams. It was also fantastic to see the elation of King Power Foxes’ families and support team at the presentation, a sign of their dedication and hard work over the season. Read more about the match via Telegraph Sport.

Throughout the day we of course ensured the best of the action was captured on Cowdray Polo’s social channels, as well as engaging with posts from all those attending. Therefore needless to say we welcomed a cheeky glass of Louis Roederer from the lovely team at Cowdray Estate at the end of the day.

If you haven’t already been, we highly recommend you grab a picnic and head down to Cowdray to watch the polo and definitely put next year’s Final in the diary, a fantastic event for all the family!

Images via Clive Bennett