The adaptability of thoroughbreds is exceptional. We learnt a little about a few stars of the polo fields who are (galloping) examples of just this!

Small Person

‘Small Person’ was first played by Andrew Seavill in New Zealand before being sold to the United Kingdom where she proved herself as one of the best High Goal mares for many seasons.

The Blazing Keel mare was eventually purchased by the number one player in the world, Adolfo Cambiaso who played her in numerous Argentine Opens. Small Person was so brilliant, that Adolfo went on to clone her several times - how’s that for flattering?! Her clones can still be seen playing in the Argentine Open today.

Alan Meeker and Adolfo Cambiaso are photographed with a clone of Small Person for Vanity Fair April 28, 2015. Image taken at Cambiaso's farm in Cordoba Province, Argentina.

Riddle

Originally sourced by Dean Limmer (you can learn more about Dean here), this little mare by Postponed was purchased by Edward Hitchman.

She played a full season of High Goal (we Googled that term so you don’t have to… Turns out ‘High Goal’ is the highest level of polo, played only by the best players in the world!) with English captain James Beim in the United Kingdom at seven-years of age.

She was then purchased by well-regarded player, Adolfo Cambiaso, playing with him in Argentina. Jet-setting Riddle was taken to America by the Valiente Polo Team, where she played in the 26 goal tournaments for a number of High Goal players.

Her passport still had room for a stamp or two more, and Riddle was eventually sold to Guillermo Terrera and travelled back to the United Kingdom where she played several English High Goal seasons. A rather impressive resume if you ask us!

I'manood Lass

On our domestic shores, Cambridge horseman Kit Brooks had plenty to celebrate over the weekend, with his superstar off the track mare I’manood Lass (AKA ‘Duchess) being crowned best playing pony of the tournament and being part of his New Zealand Polo Open winning team! Duchess also picked up the best playing thoroughbred award.

Brooks acquired the Bachelor Duke mare off the track as a 5-year-old and has had her as part of his team for the past three seasons. Of his champion mare, Brooks said “She is the most genuine, willing horse in the world. I love her!”

I'manood Lass.

And we love hearing about these stars excelling in their new roles.

Keen to learn of more thoroughbreds thriving in their lives after racing? Be sure to check out our Wall of Fame!