As the cool season blankets Kenya’s highlands, the nation’s elite polo circuit kicks off an exhilarating stretch of domestic tournaments that started this June.
The polo community is embracing more than just equestrian flair — this is a celebration of sport, sophistication, and a growing lifestyle subculture.
The tournaments are taking place at two main venues: Manyatta Polo Club in Gilgil and Timau Sports Club near Mount Kenya.
These are picturesque venues with well-prepared grounds, stables, and VIP tents where guests sip drinks and enjoy the view. Manyatta offers sweeping views of hills and is known for its hospitality, while Timau provides a cooler highland setting, perfect for a weekend out of town
Some of the top names riding this season include:Casimir Gross, Kimoi Moi,Jadini Nzomo and Amani Nzomo, Izzy Voorspuy, Craig and Will Millar, Hiromi Nzomo.
These players are part of teams like Tusker Malt, Mascor, Samurai, and Primarosa. Each team brings something different to the pitch.
For example, Tusker Malt is all about power and scoring, thanks to Casimir. Samurai is a younger, faster team featuring the Nzomo siblings and Izzy. Mascor brings solid defense with Kimoi Moi, while Primarosa and others are packed with emerging talent like Hiromi Nzomo.
The Bwana Begg and Cavalry Cups are played at Manyatta Polo Club between June 20 and 29. These tournaments attract top teams from Nairobi, Gilgil, Timau, and Northern Kenya.
Fans can expect exciting matchups, with plenty of speed and skill on display. Scouts from the Kenya Polo Association will be on the lookout for talent to represent the country in future international matches against Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Timau Sports Club will also host friendly matches, giving players of all levels a chance to shine. These games often include mixed teams and help younger players build experience.
Beyond the action on the field, polo weekends have become mini fashion shows and lifestyle events. People come dressed to impress, with stylish hats, boots, and designer sunglasses. Kenyan fashion brands like Sandstorm and Enda are expected to pop up at the events, selling locally made luxury bags, scarves, and more.
Drink sponsors like Tanqueray and Veuve Clicquot set up lounges with DJs, cocktails, and art displays. This creates an experience that blends sport, music, and high fashion. If you’re not a polo fan yet, the vibe alone might win you over. It’s the most vibrant social event of the season.
Casimir Gross was the top scorer in last year’s 9-goal tournament and is one of the most experienced players in Kenya. The Nzomo siblings, Jadini, Amani, and Hiromi, are not only talented but part of a new generation of players bringing diversity and youth into the sport. Then there’s Kimoi Moi, a fan favorite who was named Best Player in the Connaught Cup.
All eyes will turn to the Connaught Cup at Nairobi Polo Club. This is one of the most prestigious polo events in the country, with high-goal matches and serious competition.
In August, Kenya will face Zambia in an international match at Manyatta. This is followed by a global showdown in September, with players from countries like South Africa, the UK, and Argentina flying in to compete in Nairobi.
Finally, the year will wrap up with the Moi Cup and Christmas Championship in December – a festive close to a year full of gallops, goals, and glamour.