The Polo
(est. 2008)
The polo at Sandbanks (the British Beach Polo Championships) is the largest beach polo event in the world. When polo is played in an enclosed arena it has been referred to as ‘Ice Hockey on Horse Back’.
The polo ponies love the sand – they can accelerate, turn on a sixpence and stop in a heartbeat. The thrill and excitement of horses galloping on the sand, the English Channel as a backdrop, sipping champagne amongst glamorous company – it’s an intoxicating mix.
When the ponies have left for the stables, catch the players partying into the night alongside the sponsors and spectators.
‘The matches are fast and furious, and the extra-large orange ball, designed not to get lost in the sand, flies around at speeds of up to 100mph.’
The Guardian
The Parties
Following the thrill of the day’s action, the energy continues into the evening as we proceed to the after-party from 6pm-midnight on both nights.
Friday 12th July 2024 (6pm-midnight)
Boogie on the Beach
Join us for nationally acclaimed Soul, Motown and Disco themed beach party, which this year welcomes a host of special guests.
– Odyssey (Going Back To My Roots)
– Lemar (Brit Award winner)
– Wonderband (8-piece soul act)
– Brandon Block (Disco House DJ)
– DJs Mike Artwell, Paul Brady, Martyn The Hat
– Hosted by DJ Jay Rachet
Saturday 13th July 2024 (6pm-midnight)
Weekend Closing Party
A genre-defying and decade-hopping night of entertainment on Sandbanks Beach to celebrate the closing of Sandpolo weekend in style. Expect live bands, DJs, performers and a stylish crowd.
– DJ Spoony (House & Party set)
– The Kings (7-piece Rock & Pop act)
– DJ Sam Young (‘London’s Best DJ’ Winner)
– DJ Tim Byham
– DJ Tomsy
– Havana on Percussion
Please note: The evening parties are included in the ticket price.
WsWith just a few weeks to go before the 16th edition of the British Beach Polo Championships (Sandpolo) I would like to thank everyone who has committed to buying tickets super early this year, for existing sponsors and partners for being so loyal and for the new for their trust and overwhelming enthusiasm.
We are so privileged to call Sandbanks beach our home. I am lucky enough to travel more than many and I honestly cannot imagine a better beach to stage our event. The views of Old Harry Rocks, the golden sand, its accessibility and the willingness of the residents and council beach team to name but a few of the benefits we enjoy.
This year we have a packed arena action programme with the addition of a breath-taking horse stunt riding act before and after the polo. We also welcome back the Audi 4 x 4 V polo pony charity race in aid of the Lewis Manning Hospice. It is such a worthy cause and everyone is so generous with their donations.
Boogie on the Beach is back this year on Friday night. Mica Paris, the ‘Queen of UK Soul’ headlines our ‘soul, motown and disco’ party. On Saturday Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp hosts the Sandpolo Closing Party. While the ‘beach vibe’ has many guests dancing during the day, the After Parties continue to have an extraordinary energy, with a packed dance floor spilling out onto the sand. To avoid any confusion all Sandpolo tickets are for the whole day from 1pm – midnight.
We take the responsibility of now being seen as a highlight in the Dorset sporting and social calendar very seriously and are always looking to improve the guest experience. We welcome all feedback and where possible take action. This year we have focused on the General Admission – Sandpolo ticket offering. Trust me – you will see a difference. Sandpolo is a VIP experience for everyone!
The amazing Sandpolo team are now finishing the office admin before heading to Sandbanks, the polo players and horses are training hard and hopefully you are thinking about how to win the best dressed competition!
Can’t wait to see you on the beach on 7/8 July.
Johnny
Sandbanks is probably the most exclusive beach community in the UK. The infamous peninsular extends out across Poole Harbour on the scenic Dorset coast. It boasts upmarket luxurious homes and pristine ‘Blue Flag’ beaches.
Poole is easily accessible with a fast rail connection (100 minutes direct from London Waterloo), good road access (30 minutes from Southampton) and 2 International airports within 45 minutes.
Address: Sandbanks beach, Banks Rd, Poole, BH13 7QQ
