A History of Polo in South Africa by Donald C. McKenzie and John R. McKenzie

A History of Polo in South Africa by Donald C. McKenzie and John R. McKenzie is an extensive historical record of one of South Africa’s longest-established equestrian sports. Published by John R. McKenzie in Dargle in 1999, this substantial first edition is a 484-page illustrated hardcover. Bibliographical records identify Donald C. McKenzie and John R. McKenzie as the compilers and editors, with the volume documenting the development of polo and the people, clubs and competitions associated with the game in South Africa.

Polo has a particularly interesting history in South Africa. The first recorded match took place in 1874 between the Gordon Highlanders and the Cape Mounted Rifles, after British military personnel introduced the game to the country. During the following decades polo spread beyond military circles, with civilian clubs appearing in places including Dargle, Mooi River, Durban, Greytown, Karkloof, Kokstad, Matatiele, Nottingham Road and Underberg.

The McKenzies’ work is especially valuable because it preserves the history of these clubs and the individuals who shaped the sport. The development of polo in Natal and elsewhere in South Africa is closely connected with farming communities, military traditions, horse breeding and the social history of rural South Africa. A History of Polo in South Africa provides an opportunity to explore these interconnected histories through the story of the game.

The establishment of the South African Polo Association in 1906 marked another important stage in the sport’s development, providing a national organisation around which clubs and regional associations could develop. South African players subsequently competed internationally, including the notable appearance of a South African team at the Argentine Open in 1933.

A History of Polo in South Africa is particularly appealing to collectors and enthusiasts interested in equestrian history, sporting history and Africana. Its substantial length and illustrated format make it considerably more than a general introduction to polo, preserving a detailed record of clubs, players and the development of the sport over many decades.

This 1999 John R. McKenzie first edition is a desirable specialist volume for collectors of South African sporting books, polo enthusiasts, historians and anyone interested in the country’s equestrian heritage. A History of Polo in South Africa offers an unusually detailed look at the traditions, personalities and communities that helped establish polo as an enduring part of South African sporting culture.

Condition: Very Good – Light shelf wear and foxing present.