Who is Nick Manifold…By Reezen Ambassador Jennifer Schmeer
What brought you from Australia to the United States and at what age?
I left Australia when I was 18 and went to Argentina to learn how to play polo. I was there for
three years, then fortunately made my way to the U.S. where I began to play polo with the
White Birch Polo Team.
What was life like for you growing up in Australia?
Growing up in Australia was amazing. I was very lucky to have supportive parents that helped
me pursue my passion in polo.
Who introduced the world of polo to you?
My Father played, so I’ve grown up around it my whole life.
Did Australia have a big polo scene while you were growing up?
There is polo in Australia, but nothing like the U.S. The biggest polo scene is in Argentina. They
have a stadium there known as the “Cathedral of Polo” that seats 30,000 people.
The more I hear about Argentina; the more fascinated I become. What is Argentina like?
Argentina is a rural wonderland. Ver fertile, sandy countryside that is ideal for horses.
Who has been your biggest inspiration in the polo world?
There are a lot of inspirational people in polo, but I think for me the most inspirational would
be Hector Barrantes, a professional polo player. I went to work at his farm in Argentina when I
left Australia. He was an incredible horseman and person. He played at Greenwich Polo Club
during the 80’s with the White Birch Polo Team. He had a very important stud farm where he
bred polo ponies and today you can still find many descendants of his polo ponies that are
playing at the highest level of polo today.
You have a polo match this Sunday; opening match of the season. How do you prepare for
each polo match?
First, it’s all about the horses and how you ride and exercise them. I plan my lineup of horses
which order I will play them. Then the team meets for a discussion and dorm our game-day
strategy. Personally speaking, the day of a match; I usually try not to do too much. Save energy
and use it all for the game. I mainly focus on game strategy.
What would you say are the perks of being a professional polo player?
My major perk in polo is that my work is my passion.
What breed makes the best polo pony?
The best breed for polo is a thoroughbred. If it is crossed with a small part of a Quarter horse
that can be an advantage to add body and agility.
What got you into breeding polo ponies in Argentina?
All thanks to Marino Aguerre! I am a partner with Mariano Aguerre and Naco Taverna in a horse
breeding operation called, Los Machitos. Many of the polo ponies in the game around the
world are Los Machitos horses.
What makes a thrilling polo match to you?
A great polo match for me is when the level of play is the highest. Seeing the best horses and
players together is thrilling for anyone.
Favorite place to play polo?
My favorite place is playing at the Greenwich Polo Club. I also like playing at the International
Polo Club and Grand Champions Polo Club- both in Wellington, Florida.
