Professional polo player Brandon Phillips has kindly taken the time to answer some questions about his career. Thinking of a horse riding career? Perhaps polo is worth considering!
How much of your day/week is related to horses?
Pretty much every day is related to the horses. Some days are a little “lighter” then others, but it is safe to say that every day of every year is related to the horses somehow. It’s a complete lifestyle…
What is it exactly that you do?
Days can consist of riding, practicing, games, or just being at the barn organizing the next day’s activities, talking with the grooms, going over plans for each horse. Also a big part of our job is the buying and selling of horses. So I’m constantly looking for horses for certain clients as well as looking for myself. Always trying to find that “diamond in the rough”.
In this field of work, is it possible to be a full time professional and earning a liveable income?
I have been a full time professional polo player for 21 years. So yes, its very possible to make a livable income.
What are the general steps taken to be employed in such a role?
Simple, to be a successful polo professional you need to be very good. You need to be in the top 1% in each handicap level to be successful . There is no written rule, but like anything, the better you are the more success you will have.
Favourite horse memory?
The best memories are when any of my horses win a best playing pony award for a tournament. For any of them to be recognized as being the best preforming horse is a great accomplishment for both myself and my grooms.
Future goals?
My future goals are simple. Keep improving. The sport gets tougher every year with regards to stronger competition, better horses, faster pace. The sport is advancing rapidly; if you don’t keep improving and growing with the sport then you will get left behind.
Best thing about your sport/profession?
Easy question! Best thing about this sport is being with horses every day!
“A stubborn horse walks behind you, an impatient horse walks in front of you, but a noble companion walks beside you.” – Author Unknown
0
20
20
Leave a Reply