SBM Bank Kenya has emerged victorious at the Kenya International 6-Goal Polo Tournament, clinching the title in a thrilling final held at the Nairobi Polo Club. In a pulsating encounter, SBM Bank edged out Turkish Airlines with a final score of 7F-7, securing the championship in dramatic fashion.
The match commenced with high expectations as SBM Bank’s Uruguayan star, Mauricio Andre, made an immediate impact by scoring the opening goal in the first chukka. Turkish Airlines responded robustly, with their key player, Cruz Novillo Astrada, leveling the score at 1F-1. The first chukka set the tone for what was to become a fiercely competitive game, with both teams demonstrating their prowess on the field.
In the second chukka, the intensity continued, with each team scoring twice. Andre and Astrada were pivotal, each contributing two goals to their respective teams, resulting in a 3F-3 tie. The evenly matched play underscored the high skill levels of both sides, making it clear that the contest would be closely fought.
The third chukka saw Turkish Airlines momentarily gain the upper hand. Astrada scored his third goal of the match, complemented by a contribution from Nairobi Polo Club captain Vishal Somaia. Despite this, Andre’s persistent effort for SBM Bank kept them within reach, as he scored his fourth goal, narrowing the gap to 5F-4.
The final chukka was a showcase of Andre’s exceptional talent. Shifting into “beast mode,” he scored a remarkable hat trick, demonstrating both precision and resilience. Despite further goals from Astrada and Fred Kambo of Turkish Airlines, SBM Bank’s cumulative score, combined with the handicap adjustments, allowed them to secure a 7F-7 victory.
The match was not only a testament to the high standard of polo played but also highlighted the remarkable performances of both Mauricio Andre and Cruz Novillo Astrada, who emerged as the standout players of the game. Their individual brilliance was a key factor in the excitement and quality of the final.
Magdalene Mulandi, Head of Marketing and Communication at SBM Bank Kenya, expressed her pride and enthusiasm following the tournament. “We are immensely proud of the team’s exceptional performance throughout the tournament. This victory is a testament to their dedication and resilience. Polo continues to grow as a sport in Kenya, and we are honored to play a part in its development. We look forward to supporting future tournaments and nurturing more talent within the polo community,” said Mulandi.
SBM Bank’s commitment to polo is evident in their role as a key sponsor of the Kenya International Polo Tournament. Their support not only fosters the growth of the sport but also highlights the bank’s dedication to promoting sporting excellence in the region. The tournament has become a significant event in Kenya’s polo calendar, attracting top players and offering a platform for high-level competition.
In addition to the thrilling 6-goal tournament, the Nairobi Polo Club also hosted the Fat Hippo Trophy. Mawimbi emerged victorious against Diani Reef with a score of 6F-6. Raphael Nzomo and his son Jadini Nzomo were instrumental in Mawimbi’s triumph, with Raphael scoring four goals and Jadini adding two more, showcasing their skill and teamwork.
Looking ahead, the Nairobi Polo Club is set to continue its polo festivities with the Kenya International 10-Goal Polo Tournament next weekend. This upcoming event promises to build on the success of the 6-goal tournament, bringing together more top players and further elevating the standard of polo in Kenya.
As the polo community and fans eagerly anticipate the next tournament, SBM Bank’s triumph serves as a reminder of the exciting developments in Kenyan polo and the growing support for the sport.
