For many horse riding enthusiasts, polocrosse is a delightful discovery. Born from a fusion of polo, lacrosse and horse riding, it is a spectacular sport that tests not only the rider’s skills, but above all the bond of trust with their horse.

Although less well-known than polo, polocrosse is attracting more and more players around the world thanks to its fast-paced action, accessibility and strong team spirit.

What is polocrosse?

Polocrosse is a team equestrian sport that originated in Australia in the 1930s. It is played with a racket fitted with a net, which is used to pick up, carry and throw a ball towards the opposition’s goal.

The aim is simple: to score as many points as possible, but to do so requires technique, coordination, speed and perfect control of the horse.

Every move is the result of constant teamwork between rider and horse, making polocrosse a sport in which harmony is just as important as skill.

How to play

The teams consist of six players, divided into two groups of three riders who take turns on the pitch during the match.

The pitch is rectangular and is divided into three zones. The rules prevent players from moving freely across all zones, thereby encouraging teamwork and passing.

The ball may only be picked up using the special racket, whilst physical contact is restricted and regulated to ensure the safety of both horses and riders.

The matches are very fast-paced and unfold quickly, with constant changes of direction, bursts of speed and attacking moves.

The horse: the real star

In polocrosse, the horse is much more than just an athlete.

It must be:

• agile when changing direction;
• quick to accelerate;
• mentally balanced;
• bold yet always under control.

Unlike other equestrian disciplines, there is no ‘ideal’ breed. Quarter Horses, Australian Stock Horses, Thoroughbreds (English Thoroughbreds) and numerous crossbreeds selected for agility, stamina and temperament are used.

Character is more important than pedigree: a good polocrosse horse must trust its rider completely.

Why polocrosse appeals to horse riding enthusiasts

For those who ride, polocrosse offers a different way of experiencing horses.

It’s not just about getting on the bike, but about developing:

• reflections;
• communication;
• coordination;
• the ability to read the horse’s movements.

Every match becomes an ongoing dialogue between rider and horse, where even a slight shift in weight or a gentle press of the legs is enough to completely change the course of play.

Where is polocrosse played?

Polocrosse is particularly popular in:

• Australia (where it was born);
• South Africa
• United Kingdom;
• New Zealand;
• France;
• Germany;
• United States.

Anche in Italia la disciplina sta crescendo grazie ad associazioni e circoli equestri che organizzano stage, tornei e giornate di prova dedicate ai nuovi praticanti.