Abuja buzzes for carnival polo tournament

The 2024 Abuja Carnival International Polo Festival is set to kick off with flair on December 4 at the Guards Polo Resort in Asokoro, Abuja.

Known for its thrilling competition and vibrant atmosphere, this event is a key highlight of the annual Abuja City Carnival. Guards Polo Resort officials confirmed to Polo Royals that preparations are in full swing, with stakeholders working to deliver an unforgettable polo experience.

The resort is seeing extensive upgrades to its turf, clubhouse, stables, and grounds, while players and horses engage in weekend practice sessions.

This year, however, only locally-based horses will participate due to the spread of African Horse Sickness (AHS), which has postponed other polo events. This precautionary measure aims to protect equine health and prevent further spread of the disease.

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“Everyone is on the same card here. The polo patrons, horse owners, players and the organizers are having discussions on this because the safety of the ponies are of paramount to the noble game of polo,’ the official declared in a phone chat.

“The consultations are still ongoing and based of experts advise that are being expected in the next few days, a final decision would be taken on weather visiting horses will participate in the carnival this year or not,” he added.

Traditionally, teams from Kano, Katsina and Kaduna where two major international tournaments been put off due to the deadly AHS, alongside Kano and Katsina provide the bulk of visiting teams at every carnival event.

Last year former champions Abuja Rubicon won the biggest prize of the carnival polo on toss against many times defending champions, Jos Malcomines after a score draw in the grand finale game.