33 teams storm Lagos for GTBank 2019 International Polo tourney

Joe Apu

The much anticipated 2019 NPA Lagos Polo International Tournament, which was delayed due to national elections is finally here and will gallop off on Wednesday, March 13, at the Lagos Polo Club, Ikoyi, with 33 teams vying for honours in four major cups categories.

The participating teams drawn from all the major polo clubs across the country, included 12 Silver Cup teams, 14 Lagos Low Cup, five medium-goal teams for the Lagos Open Cup, and two heavy weight teams for the Majekodunmi Cup.

Tournament Manager, Seyi Oyinlola promised that this year would be better, as it has always been over the years, adding that “it’s going to be two weeks of thrilling polo experience for the lovers of the game.”

Oyinlola, who commended GTBank, which is the main sponsor, stated that having gained reputation as the biggest polo tournament in West Africa, the Lagos Polo Club looked forward to delivering great values for the sponsors, with the coming on board of Coca-Cola and Shell that joined BUA, WAPIC Insurance and others in sponsoring the glamorous fiesta. Some of the players expected to light up this year’s tournament included Tomas Fernandez Llorente, a seven-goaler from Argentina; South Africa’s Tom De Bryune +6; and Diego White a +6 handicap player from Argentina. Other professionals expected included Chris Mckenzie +6,Pedro Soria, Leroux Hendrix, and Martin Waiganjo. Polo enthusiasts will also be treated to a variety of activities ranging from thrilling performances by music stars to an exquisite experience at the exclusive GTBank Lounge where guests will be treated to epicurean cuisine and vintage wine.  Commenting on the tournament, Segun Agbaje, Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, said: “We love the game of polo, the passion and the symbiosis between the players and their horses, but most importantly, we hold a strong affinity to the sport of kings because it reflects quality, competitiveness and fair play; some of the values that have made GTBank a Proudly African and Truly International Financial Institution.”