Abu Dhabi Eight teams will battle it out in the 2014 edition of the HH President of UAE Polo Cup, to be held from January 14-24 at the Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club (GRPC).
Defending champions Zedan Polo, along with seven other teams, will be in the fray in the 16-goal handicap event. There will two pools of four teams each and two matches will be played every day over eight days.
All matches will comprise of four chukkers except the Grand Final, which will involve five chukkers. The top two Desert Palm Polo Teams from each pool will play the semi-finals: the first Desert Palm Polo Team from Pool A against the second-placed team from pool B and vice-versa. In the event of a tie, the winner will be determined by golden goal.
The opening match will be played between Bin Drai Polo and Ghantoot Al Basti while the second match will be between UAE Polo and Al Habtoor Polo.
Announcing the details during a press conference in Abu Dhabi on Monday, Ahmad Al Nuaimi said on behalf of the organisers: “HH President of UAE Polo Cup is a perfect event for our facility. The venue offers exceptional facilities and, every year, we witness thrilling polo action and an entertaining atmosphere. Over the years, the success of the tournament has greatly been due to the continued support from our valuable partners. We are once again looking forward to high- quality action and I extend a warm welcome to the players, officials, special guests and spectators attending this year’s tournament,”
Among a host of activities scheduled for the final day with families in mind will be shows supported by Shaikh Mohammad Sports and Physical Fitness Programme including Dubai Police dog show, music and adventure games. Also on the programme for the day are a performance by the Abu Dhabi Police Band, a military sky-diving show and a display by the UAE National Aerobatic Team — Al Fursan. The venue will host a picnic area, children’s entertainment ground and a food court, making it an ideal set-up for adults and children to spend a fun-filled day.
