Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XVIII

8 8 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I On the terrace overlooking Ghantoot’s pitches, guests then sat down to a three- course dinner by Gaucho and Royal Warrant holders Justerini & Brooks. Colonel Simon Ledger then raised his gavel to start the evening’s charity auction for the benefit of WAHA and Help for Heroes. With lots including an iconic handmade Brompton bicycle, a stay for two at Marrakech’s Royal Mansour, four nights in the private residence on Velaa Private Island, and a week in one of 3rd Home’s luxurious properties, the auction raised an impressive £35,000. Travelling with Abercrombie & Kent, guests, players and polo enthusiasts spent the preceding days exploring Abu Dhabi – the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a boat trip across the Persian Gulf for brunch at Zaya Nurai Island and two exclusive dinners at Bentley’s and Frankie's Italian Restaurant & Bar, Abu Dhabi. TomHudson, Co-Founder of British Polo Day commented: “We were delighted to launch the 2015 British Polo Day series in Abu Dhabi – and in such spectacular surroundings, where we welcome new partners Harrods and Etihad Airways. The matches were closely-fought and we are extremely proud to raise significant amounts for two incredibly worthy causes.” British Polo Day’s UAE Tour then moved on to its second leg, British Polo Day Dubai, hosted by the Habtoor Family at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club – the birthplace of British Polo Day and the setting for its very first event in 2009. As VIP guest Philip Parham CMG, HM Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, summed it all up: “Style, speed, skill, dash, fun and excellence – the very British attributes of the very British Polo Days in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Polo, along with other equestrian sports, exemplifies the strong links between British and Emirati heritage past, present and – I am sure – future. The British Polo Days also exemplify the UAE’s role as an international sporting arena. So, many thanks to all our British and Emirati friends whose hard work makes the British Polo Day possible.” Colonel Simon Ledger