New statement released by the Hurlingham Polo Association on Thursday, March 19th, regarding COVID 19 and the upcoming 2020 polo season in England:
“In his statement on Tuesday, the Prime Minister requested that everyone should avoid unnecessary travel, contact with others and activities which risked an additional burden on the emergency services during what is a likely to be a hugely testing time. Consequently, all HPA courses have been postponed or cancelled and clubs are requested to postpone or cancel all polo tournaments until 1st May. This date will be kept under constant review.
We recognise that this is a very difficult time for everyone and that there are certain areas and businesses which have been or may be particularly hard hit and that this is likely to include those dependent on polo. Along with the rest of the country it is nevertheless important that all our members respect all Government conditions and do all they can to halt the spread of the virus in the midst of what is an unprecedented situation.
It is difficult for us to predict how things might develop, but subject to any new Government conditions, our aim remains to see tournament polo played in 2020 so that players, clubs and businesses can continue to operate this season and we are continuing to plan accordingly. The health and safety of our members and staff both here and at the clubs is paramount. We also must ensure that we are not putting members of the public at risk. This includes ensuring that medical cover is met in such a way that it does not remove NHS staff or resources.
All polo will be subject to hygiene guidelines, which we will confirm and put as a stand-alone document on the website. We will also circulate advice on how the requisite medical support might be met so that it does not take away NHS resources and put some FAQ’s on the website.
Please note that all bar David Woodd and Olly Hughes are now working from home. Telephone calls can be transferred but emails are probably easier.”
Signed by Nick Wiles, Chairman of the HPA