By Oluseye Ojo
Top polo players from Nigeria, Argentina and other countries are set to gallop off at the highly anticipated annual seven-day Nigerian Polo Association, Ibadan International Polo tournament, scheduled to begin today.
The top players from various parts of Nigeria include Asharaf Yahaya (+3 handicap), Kwame Isa (+3 handicap), and Abdulrahman Mohammed (+3 handicap). Also, Diego White from Argentina will compete at the tournament. They will represent their different teams.
The teams, drawn from Jos, Kano, Kaduna, Lagos, and Port Harcourt, will compete for honours in events, including the Ibadan Cup, Rotimi Cup, Ade Alakija Memorial Cup, Shoreline Cup, Governor’s Cup, and Professor Jide Owoeye Cup.
The tournament will hold at the prestigious Ibadan Polo Club Ground in the Oyo State capital, and it is expected to be the biggest in its history, with the top-rated players and sponsors from around the world.
The tournament, which has become a highlight of the polo calendar, will showcase the skills of the high-profile players across different categories.
Among the notable sponsors for this year’s event are Shoreline Energy International, Blue chip Technologies, IHS Towers of Strength, MTN, Graham Beck, Banwo & Ighodalo, Transco Africa, Macadams, Lead City Group, and the Oyo State Government.
The Group Managing Director/CEO of Shoreline Energy International, Chief Kola Karim, will mark the beginning of the tournament by kicking off the first game.
Chairman of this year’s edition, Abimbola Adeyemi, has promised that the tournament would surpass all previous editions in every aspect.
He stated: “This year’s edition promises to be the best than our previous editions in all areas. Apart from the core event amongst the participants, we shall be having entertainment corner on daily basis where live bands, DJ, karaoke and many entertainment sessions will be done to spice up the tournament.”
Mr. Kayinsola Owoeye, President of the Ibadan Polo Club, expressed his gratitude to Shoreline Energy International and the other sponsors for their invaluable contributions to the growth of polo in Nigeria.
The Entertainment Secretary of the club, Olufela Yomi-Layinka, said maximum security and top-notch medical services would be provided to ensure the safety and well-being of both players and spectators