Tareq Salahi is the captain of the U.S. Polo team that will be playing the British team at the Americas Cup of Polo, May 12, at Morven Park 41793 Tutt Lane, Leesburg. The event will include music, air show and fireworks. Cost is $75 for general admission. Proceeds benefit the Journey for the Cure. Visit www.AmericasCupofPolo.com or call 540-622-2505.
How did you start playing polo?
I was introduced to the game by Col. Billy West from West Point Military Academy. He taught me the basics of the game on a wooden horse in the backyard of his home in the early 80s. I later developed my skills when I played polo at the University of California, Davis, and we captured three national titles.
When and how did you become captain of the team?
After years of playing polo and working regularly with the United Nations and ambassadors of various countries, I was asked to become the U.S. team captain on my travels around the world to represent the U.S.A. The U.S. team will travel to a country when we receive an invitation by that ambassador or head of state and we have a corporate sponsor to proudly represent when we travel.
What is your favorite part of playing polo?
It's the interaction between man and the horse — there is no other sport in the world like it — it's a true "one of a kind." Exhilarating and also very dangerous ….
What are some of the skills required to play polo?
One basic skill is to have respect with the horse. Once you have established that, which may take years to accomplish, then it's the synergy between the communication between you as a player with your horse and your natural talent of "eye hand coordination." If you are a golfer, or good tennis player or squash player or similar sport, you definitely can play polo — and you know how to ride of course — you just don' know it yet.
What is the most challenging part for you as a player?
Since I play heavy internationally, it's the location, environment, time zone and sometimes the "host and drink of the country." Often when we go, the host country takes us out the evening before and treats us graciously to the cuisine and wine or local drink of choice. Sometime you have to wonder if that is part of the strategy to make the visiting team a little slower the next day. Cheers as we say.
Have you played the English team before? If so how did it go, are they good? If not, what have you heard about them?
Yes. I have played various English teams. From low goal (amateurs) to high goal (the best players in the world). The players are all accomplished players and always thrilling opponents. It's always an honor and privilege to play against the UK team.
My last game in the UK, we ended up as a tie game 1-1. It was perhaps the most exhilarating game I played against them. I played against Prince Charles and Prince Harry and it was a game of a lifetime. Prince Charles surprisingly announced his retirement at the conclusion of that game.
What are you looking forward to most about the upcoming match?
Great weather, a safe game, winning of course and a rock 'n roll concert of a lifetime by Journey with the most amazing fireworks of a lifetime.
What are your responsibilities as captain?
Keeping the team in balance and working together to achieve the final goal. Winning with honor and respect and representing the United States with pride.
Where does the U.S. team practice and play?
We do not practice actively as a team. The U.S. team is compromised of all stars from various points around the U.S. or Virginia depending on the level of play. We will be taking to the field for the first time as a team on May 12. We have a disadvantage to the UK team since they practice together regularly.
Are the horses specially trained?
Yes, they are specifically trained for polo. Often these horses come off the track from racing since they were not fast enough, but are perfect for polo.
What is something most people do not know about Polo?
A.) It's one of the only sports in the world where both women and men are on the same field together. B.) It's also the oldest sport in the world.
How dangerous can it be for you and the horses?
It's the most dangerous sport in the world. According to Sports Illustrated, it's the second most dangerous sport in the world next to race Car driving (NASCAR, etc.).
What is your best memory when it comes to playing polo?
Every game is a great memory. Winning the U.S. National Arena Open with Alan Nash and David Offen was a memory of a lifetime. As was playing and tying the game with His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales and Prince Harry on that game when Prince Charles retired forever after our game against him. It was a true honor that he retired on our game at Cirencester Polo Club in the UK.
Do horse and rider have a close bond?
Absolutely. It's the synergy between the horse and player that make the "team." One must work together with your horse and have respect with your horse to make your partnership be successful.
How can people get more involved with or play polo?
First of all, everyone should come out to the Americas Polo Cup and show their patriotism and respect for the United States and our heritage. Whether you like horses, or rock and roll, or airplanes — it's a true once in a lifetime chance to fly the flag for America and participate in Americas 400th Anniversary in the most amazing way possible. No American will ever forget this day or event.
Also, polo has become very affordable recently and many great ways to learn and experience the game. One of the best polo programs for beginners and up, I recommend is "DestinationPolo.com." Contact Doug Barnes who is a local in Virginia and for less than $90 he will get you on a polo pony and addicted to the historic sport of polo.