The 49th SA Club Championships brings top polocrosse action to MP

Posted in Entertainment by Admin on 24 August, 2016 at 2:16 p.m.

BETHAL - The annual South African Club Championships, taking place at Bethal Polocrosse Club, Mpumalanga, from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 August, are set to attract a field of polocrosse elite.

This illustrious equine competition has been running for almost five decades and event organisers, Bethal Polocross Club – one of the fastest growing clubs nationally – are expecting another highly contested programme.

“The South African Club Championships are definitely a highlight on every polocrosse player’s calendar with everyone putting on a fantastic performance for a shot at the coveted title,” explained Hannes van Aswagen, Polocrosse Association of South Africa president.

“Every year we see a field of high calibre polocrosse players and this year is no exception. We’re already expecting Nyati, the reigning SA Club Champs winners from northern KwaZulu-Natal to defend their title. There will also be several players who recently competed against Australia and Zambia coming to show off their skill.”

The tournament will be split into a number of divisions with clubs separated depending on a draw. It is a six-team draw tournament which will also include a handicap limit on the ‘A’ Division. Every club is invited to enter as many teams as possible, with each team made up of six players. There will also be junior and transformational players competing at this year’s event.

The competition is fast-paced, making it a treat for both competitors and spectators. The 2016 contest will take place on the fields located just outside of Bethal, on the property of polocrosse veteran, Gert van der Merwe.

“We are really encouraging everyone to come and enjoy the tournament and support the players,” said Van Aswagen. “Polocrosse is growing in interest nationally, particularly with South Africa being the current world champions, so it’s worth coming out and seeing some of these champs in action.”

There will be food on sale and a cash bar running throughout the event as well as entertainment in the evening for visitors to enjoy.
All entrance is free.

Brian Cooper and Tim Hayden.