Polo-playing pachyderms pick up prize

Thailand’s annual King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament organised by the Anantara Resort and Spa each September in the royal seaside resort of Hua Hin has today been awarded ‘Best Event’ from the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association.

Christopher Stafford, event organiser and Anantara general manager, said, “This award has to be dedicated to all the people who have made elephant polo a reality. It goes not only to all the creative and dedicated people in our Anantara team but also to the World Elephant Polo Association for all their help and support, all the players who have taken part and their sponsors, the National Elephant Institute for their expertise and the Hua Hin elephant village.”

This year will be the third year of the tournament, which sees 10 international teams compete for the coveted King’s Cup. The event, which will take place from 16th - 21st September, will see teams from Thailand, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Australia, UK, Germany, India and long-term sponsors Chivas Regal meet in Hua Hin.

Last year’s King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament raised one million Baht for the National Elephant Institute and organisers are hoping to raise 1.5 million Baht this year.

Plans are currently underway to launch the event with a celebrity and press match on Saturday 13th September.

Spectator entrance to the celebrity match and to the tournament matches is free of charge.

Photos by Rachot Visalarnkul

Anantara Resort and Spa Hua Hin,
web: www.anantara.com

The Anantara Resort and Spa will be hosting the 2003 King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament from 16th-21st September. An event not to be missed!

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