The Nile Gold Polo Classic comes of age

By Steven Odeke

THERE are inevitable comparisons between the Nile Gold Polo Classic held at Kakira and the Goat races at Munyonyo — they both have their roots in events of British aristocracy; and they both are supposed to be a time when people dress up and go have a good time away from home. 

But while the Goat races have become something of a debauchery, and the majority of the people there never get to see a goat, the polo tournament is still very much a sports event. 

But it is the chance for a day out and away from the noise and dust of Kampala that is drawing an increasing number of Ugandans, who drive all the way to Kakira. 

They show up on Saturday, spend the night partying in Jinja, return to Kakira on Sunday, spend a lazy day at the races and then drive back in the evening.

There were four teams this year: Barclays, Civicon, John Deere Tata and Turkish Airlines. 

In the preliminaries on Saturday, Turkish Airlines lost to John Deere Tata, while Civicon beat Barclays.

Sunday saw Turkish Airlines beat Barclays in the losers final to claim the Nile Cup; while Civicon overcame Turkish Airlines in the Main final to win the Madhvani Cup.

This year also saw many more sponsors and the hospitality tents were full on both days. 

This year also saw some of Uganda’s best fine artists, who created three unique pieces of polo-themed art, which were auctioned at the end of the tournament.