FAQ
Tell us more about Polo in Ireland?
- Played in Ireland since 1873.
- The All Ireland Polo Club is regarded as the oldest club in Europe.
- Today there are 8 Polo Clubs throughout the island of Ireland, with many other private grounds playing Polo during the summer and winter months.
- Club Polo in Ireland is governed by the Federation of Irish Polo Clubs.
How is Polo in Ireland currently funded?
- Currently there is no Government funding for Irish Polo and all of the Polo Clubs in Ireland are self-financing.
- This falls well short of the funding required to provide opportunities for young people to play Polo.
- The Irish Polo Foundation has been established to generate funds through securing philanthropic donations, corporate giving and sponsorship to bridge this gap.
- We are registered with The Ireland Fund and this gives donors many Tax effective options
What is the organisation structure of the Irish Polo Foundation?
- The Polo Players Ireland Company Limited by Guarantee (CRO no: 608187) was incorporated in 2017.
- The company’s accounts are audited by BDO and are available for inspection at the Companies Registration Office.
The directors of the Company are:
- James Kennedy, Chairman of the National Standards Authority of Ireland.
- Richard Le Poer Beresford, a professional polo player from Waterford and Ireland’s highest handicapped player.
Where do funds raised go? How is the money spent?
Money raised by the Foundation is used to fund the training of young people who wish to play Polo.
What is the governance structure - who determines where and how funds are spent?
We have a governance committee that takes responsibility to ensure the Foundation operates within Sport Ireland Governance procedures. This committee works closely with the board of directors to ensure that the annual financial budget is reviewed and approved against the polices of the Foundation.
Where can I get regular information about the Foundation?
- Everyone who invests in the Irish Polo Foundation will receive updates through our website.
- We are committed to maintaining a sense of community with all those involved in supporting the Foundation so we can develop a connection with the day to day happenings and successes of the Polo players and programmes
What equipment is required to play Polo?
Polo Players are required to wear the following pieces of safety equipment:
- Helmet
- Riding boots
- Knee pads
- Goggles/safety glasses
- Gloves and wrist supports
The Foundation will provide financial assistance to equestrian centres to purchase the necessary safety equipment for players, as well as Polo mallets and balls.
How can I help?
Polo Players are required to wear the following pieces of safety equipment:
- We are seeking financial donations over a 3-5 year period.
- Our goal is to raise €1 million over a 5 year period.
Are there tax incentives available?
We are registered with The Ireland Fund which operates in the USA, UK and several other countries. This gives donors a number of options to avail of Tax reliefs.