THE Challenge Match programme is drawing to a close along with the summer season, but not before bringing on up to 20 polo beginners at the AIPC in Phoenix Park.

The programme was launched last June.

“It is for beginners and as a place to begin playing polo as well,” said AIPC president, the zero-goal handicapped Paul Monahan.

“We want to get beginners into competitions, starting off in a nice, friendly competition, playing with umpires and the rules of polo.”

The Challenge Match involves two teams playing the full four chukkas with one player on each team holding no more than a zero-goal handicap.

The programme provides an opportunity for beginners to move up from practise chukkas into a match, supported and guided by an official umpire.