Welcome to

About us

Elliott Polo Ponies is a family-run business in South ​Oxfordshire, dedicated to the breeding, starting, training, ​schooling, and re-schooling of polo ponies.

The foundation of this establishment has been shaped by Philip ​Elliott, a former professional polo player who has achieved ​significant success in winning all major UK tournaments and is ​widely renowned for his horsemanship. Philip's passion for ​thoroughbreds has led him to personally train his own horses.

Having started riding at the young age of three and playing polo ​at thirteen, Philip extended his expertise to the training, ​breeding, and coaching of polo ponies. Today, the reins ​gracefully transition to the capable hands of Philip's youngest ​daughter, Charlotte Elliott.

With a profound understanding cultivated from her early years, ​Charlotte seamlessly carries forward the family tradition. Under ​her thoughtful guidance, Elliott Polo Ponies stands as a ​testament to the enduring spirit of polo.

what we offer

Elliott Polo Ponies offers a comprehensive range of professional services.

POLO LIVERY

Our countryside setup, rooted in simplicity, is the canvas for a ​personalised and human approach to polo livery.

We understand that each horse and rider have unique ​requirements, and our dedicated team ensures the well-being ​and development of both horse and player.

If you are interested in Polo Livery with EPP, kindly drop us a ​line, sharing your specific requirements, your current polo ​level, and what you aim to achieve in our polo yard.

We look forward to the opportunity to tailor our services to ​meet your individual needs.

RETRAINING EX-RACEHORSES

At EPP, we recognise the unique potential that thoroughbred racehorses possess, even beyond their racing careers. ​Thoroughbreds, carefully selected for their size, soundness, conformation, and temperament, undergo a meticulous ​retraining process to transform into exceptional polo ponies.

Unlike traditional polo pony breeding, our approach involves retraining thoroughbreds after their racing careers or ​even as two-year-olds if their speed on the gallops doesn't meet racing standards. The process is an exercise in ​patience and care, recognising that each horse requires time to transition into the world of polo. While some ​thoroughbreds may adapt relatively easily to polo, it's crucial to understand that the true transformation and ​maturity take time.

The retraining process typically spans three to four years to produce a fully finished polo pony. This patient ​investment results in kinder, more reliable ponies with extended playing careers. Choosing a horse that ​demonstrates the right disposition and athleticism for polo sets the foundation for a successful partnership. ​Retraining racehorses for polo is a viable endeavour in the UK, provided one possesses the necessary skills, time, ​facilities, and a supportive environment. The right level of polo, good horsemanship, and understanding playing ​companions are essential components for a successful transition.

The quality of the playing environment, including level and ground conditions, plays an immeasurable role in the ​retraining journey. We pride ourselves on the art of retraining racehorses, fostering an environment that supports ​their transition into the world of polo. Our commitment to good horsemanship, patient training, and a quality ​playing environment defines our approach to producing exceptional polo ponies from thoroughbred roots.

breeding

Our breeding journey began with Nelson, a foal gifted to us, ​embodying a lovely temperament and well put together. Because ​of his qualities, we decided to pair him with our retired polo mares ​and select big, well-built mares. Over the years, the outcomes ​exceeded our expectations.

Nelson, despite being a small stallion, brought a unique advantage ​to our breeding programme. His compatibility with taller mares ​resulted in the creation of agile, robust and well-sized polo ponies.

What started as a love project evolved into a profound passion for ​working with Nelson and training his foals into exceptional polo ​ponies.

Our breeding story is not just about creating a lineage; it's a ​testament to the joy and fulfilment derived from nurturing these ​incredible animals.

The result is a remarkable string of polo ponies, each carrying ​Nelson's temperament and reflecting our commitment to ​furthering our breeding programme.

starting, training & schooling

The development of a polo pony involves careful breeding, early training, and specialised schooling to create a ​skilled and agile athlete for the sport of polo.

Starting a horse is a delicate process that establishes the foundation for its future behaviour, making the right ​training crucial.

An effective horse trainer possesses experience, skill, and a deep understanding of equine behaviour. Patience is ​paramount as each horse progresses at its own pace, and consistency in training methods is vital for clear ​communication.

Striking the right balance between gentleness and firmness is key to a positive training experience, creating a ​trusting bond between the horse and trainer. The ability to problem-solve and adapt to challenges, along with a ​comprehensive knowledge of equine behaviour, ensures a positive and successful early development. The right ​person guides the horse through the training process, promoting a well-trained and well-adjusted animal.

Schooling is an essential process for developing the horse's ability to move and strengthen as well as the ​comprehensive development of a horse's physical and mental capabilities. The systematic exposure to various ​commands during schooling serves to cultivate a deep understanding within the horse. This understanding is ​crucial for establishing a clear communication channel between the rider and the horse. As the schooling process ​advances, the horse becomes not just physically adept but also mentally attuned to respond effectively to the rider's ​cues.

We are currently available for starting or re-training your young horses. Please reach out to us via email for more ​information.

The fields

Our fields are reserved solely for our clients and the purpose of Elliott Polo Ponies.

They serve as an integral component in the comprehensive care and development of our polo ponies.

Each field is carefully designated for specific purposes, including year-round turnout.