Images: Jeremy Braithwaite
Each year the Sydney Polo Club holds their Gold Cup. It’s a relaxed social day in attractive surroundings, and Club members have made it a destination for drive days over the years.
2015 saw members return after a short break, so let’s catch up on what they got up to, thanks to Rick Marks and illustrated beautifully by the images of Jeremy Braithwaite!
By Rick Marks
Unfortunately, the day started out rainy, eventually clearing up late morning, which may have deterred some of those members who were intending to join us.
Nevertheless, a small group of enthusiastic HSRCA members gathered with their classic cars at the Sydney Polo Club at Richmond. We joined the Thoroughbred Sports Car Club, the Aston Martin Owners Club, the Bentley Owners Club and the Supercar Club for an impressive display of horsepower to match the power of the horses!
The grounds were in beautiful condition albeit a tad soggy early in the day. The set-up of the arenas and the hospitality tents was impressive and we were free to wander around the complex to see the championship show jumping and associated events and then get out the picnic baskets, blankets and chairs to enjoy the chicken and champagne while watching the quite spectacular polo matches during the day including the main event, the Sydney Gold Cup.
While it is not quite like an historic race meeting, I am sure the preparation of rider and horse (actually horses as these are swapped several times during the event) can equate to similar cost during the show and match season.
This was something different for our Club Plate and Members Run but all who attended enjoyed the experience and we may just do it again next year. The next traditional Club Plate and Members Run will be in the first quarter of 2016 and this will be a drive to a designated lunch venue. Will keep you posted.
Rick Marks,
Club Plate Registrar
