Celyn Polocrosse Club are hosting the UK vs. Ireland Polocrosse Test matches near Chester on the 24th and 25th of July, treating the North-West to some top class polocrosse action. The International Tests will see the Irish Men's, Ladies' and Junior sides take on their UK counterparts in a series of matches. The Junior Squads will also face an Australian Junior team from New South Wales, who are currently on tour in the UK. Celyn Polocrosse Club are also holding their annual tournament alongside the tests so there will be plenty of action over the weekend.
"This will be a great opportunity for people in the North-West to see some top level polocrosse, demonstrating the exhilaration and speed of the game," said tournament organiser Jeanette Mitchell. "With the Polocrosse World Cup coming to the UK in 2011, events like these Tests will help raise the profile of the sport."
As well as the excitement of the Internationals, spectators will also be able to see the sport played at its grass-roots level, with clubs from around the country fielding teams of a variety of ages and abilities throughout the weekend.
Hosts Celyn have seen several home-grown players go on to international success, and four of their members will represent the UK over the weekend. Sarah Simkin, Ruth Jones and Annemieke Mitchell are part of the Ladies' Open squad, and Olivia Miller is a team member at Junior level. All four started playing as children, and for each of them polocrosse is now a part of family life. As the UK Polocrosse Association's CEO Iain Heaton says "Polocrosse is very much a family sport, with people of all ages and abilities playing and spectating."
"Everyone starts somewhere," Celyn player Sarah Fleming added. "This tournament will give an idea of how the sport appeals to different people. It’s not all fast and furious - many play socially. They enjoy taking part in an equestrian activity that needs teamwork and co-operation, as well as offering horses and riders the chance to learn new skills."
So come along and watch the UK and Ireland teams display their teamwork and skills at Mollington on both the Saturday and Sunday. The Test Matches are scheduled during the afternoons. Entry to the tournament is free, with parking on site. There will be food and a bar available.
For more information visit www.celynpolox.co.uk or www.polocrosse.org.uk
