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The first inter-regimental game of polo took place on Hounslow Heath between the 10th Hussars and the 9th Lancers.
While on manoeuvres in Aldershot in 1869, Captain Hartopp of the 10th Hussars read an article in The Field about “hockey on horseback” in India and suggested trying it out. Several officers had a go at hitting a billiard ball with walking sticks whilst mounted. They enjoyed it and ordered ponies from Ireland, then set about improving the sticks and ball. From this came the game of polo.
