Tryon International Equestrian Center

Wondering what Gladiator Polo™ is? How does a Gladiator Pony’s day differ from the show jumpers we’re so used to seeing on Saturday nights at TIEC? We got the inside scoop from our resident polo expert, Gates Gridley… (and we also just wanted to meet some of the ponies, of course.) Read below to find out a little about the behind the scenes of the Gladiator ponies that you’ll see competing under the lights at TIEC!

In the Barn

Did you know…

Polo ponies eat three meals a day just like us!

They also have an afternoon “snack” of hay. (And if they’re really good they get treats like carrots, peppermints, and special pony cookies!)

One of the Gladiator Polo ponies, Tortilla, waiting for a cookie back at the barn. How could you resist that face?

Gear/Uniform

Did you know…

The rider has to brush the pony’s coat every day to keep it shiny and healthy before putting the saddle and bridle on. They get baths after working out too!

Gates showed us how to adjust the gear before riding.

Polo ponies wear protective wraps that cover their lower legs called “polos.” These protect their legs from getting hit by the ball, mallet, or even their own feet!

As part of their uniform, the pony’s tail is wrapped up with special colored tape in order to keep it from getting caught in the player’s mallets.

Did you know that all polo ponies have their manes shaved? Because the players don’t want to get the reins caught in the long hair as they play. The official term is called “roaching.”

Gladiator Pony, Max, showing off his sleek, short hairdo

Workout Routine

Did you know…

Polo ponies workout several times a day!

Gates instructed us on the best workouts for the ponies before competition.

They do a 45 minute morning “set” which is when the rider is on one horse’s back and leads another 2-3 horses alongside. Although they just walk, this keeps the ponies in shape and relaxed.

Each pony will also be ridden individually by a rider for up to one hour per day to practice galloping, turning, stopping quickly, and other athletic movements needed to play competitive polo.

“Stick ‘n Ball” is the term used for when players practice swinging the mallet and hitting the ball while riding the polo pony in a field or small arena.