New era for English polo team
Luke Tomlinson is to stand down as captain after a nine-year stint, marking the beginning of a new era for English polo.
The announcement was made after Britain’s defeat to Argentina in the Coronation Cup last month (26 July).
Fellow seven-goaler James Beim will now take over the reins as captain.
“It wasn’t a difficult decision,” Luke told H&H. “I started to think about it last year.
“I have had a good innings. Now James and my brother Mark both deserve a term of leadership.”
During his tenure as captain Luke secured four Coronation Cup victories and two Westchester Cup wins.
“The English setup has come a long way since I started in terms of the organisation behind the scenes, sponsorship and the quality and knowledge of the coaches,” Luke said.
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“I think the future is very bright.”
Despite relinquishing his role as captain, Luke still hopes to be involved in the England setup.
“If I am selected I would still be keen to play,” Luke added.
First published in Horse & Hound magazine on 7 August 2014
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Sophia Heath joined Horse & Hound in July 2013 having previously worked for the Daily Telegraph's Olympics website, CNN International and Omnisport. A Durham graduate with a Masters in journalism from City University, Sophia has evented, showjumped and hunted. Sophia left Horse & Hound in early 2015 to join an international boating website.