Well, first things first. Rachel had to get multiple horses ready to play. During a Polo match, there are 4 periods, known as Chukkers. Each Chukker last about 7:30 minutes. Normally each player rides a different horse in each Chukker. Getting a horse ready takes quite some time. Rachel always made sure that each horse got the proper care and equipment it need to prevent injury, and to keep her safe during play, as well.
Once, as she struggled to tighten the saddle, she told me that the horse will hold it's breath and make tightening the saddle difficult.
Once the horses are ready, It's time for Rachel to get ready. Getting herself ready takes no time at all, compared to getting the horse ready! Boots and leather guards that came up to her knees and of course, a helmet, that did not go on easily!
The horse is ready, Rachel is ready. Now the two must act as one player in a game that is as graceful and fluid as it is unique and unlike any sport I've seen before!
Now, Rachel is not a big girl, but if I called her petite, she'd punch me in the knee cap! (Only kidding, only kidding) But what Rachel lacks in height, she makes up for in strength and stamina and good old fashion athleticism! Look how far down she has to stretch to hit the ball. On a running horse, that cannot be easy!
After the match, the horse get a cold shower, and...a drink!
What better after a hard day of polo than a roll in the dirt!
After all the horses were in their stalls for the night I asked Rachel if I could take a portrait. She said of course, but I'm really disgusting and dirty and I stink! "Awesome!", I said.
I closing, I'd like to say thank you to Rachel for letting me photograph a part of her life that she loves and hold very close to her heart. And I can't wait to photograph it again, next summer!
