Polo kicks off 30th SEAG hostilities today

Real, Calatagan, Batangas—A back injury almost sidelined Rep. Mikee Romero while training in Argentina three weeks ago.

But despite his condition, Romero is excited to plunge into action when the 30th Southeast Asian Games polo competitions gets underway today at the newly built Miguel Romero field here.

“Medyo nahirapan ako. Pero ganoon talaga. Kailangan maglaro. Once in a lifetime ito para sa akin, especially at my age,” said the 47-year-old Romero.

Romero talked about their ongoing preparations yesterday right before he and members of the Philippine national polo team went into a practice game against professional Argentine players.

Three weeks ago, Romero and 10 members of the national polo pool went to train in Argentina.

Falling off a horse while Argentina didn’t discourage Romero as he hung on and stayed focused.

Coach Anthony Garcia was instrumental in helping Romero get through his condition.

Four countries, including host Philippines will see action in the polo competitions. And three others are Brunei, Malaysia and Indonesia.

Polo is one of the 56 sports on the program of the 30th SEA Games that formally starts with the opening ceremony on Saturday at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei is playing.

The 28-year-old prince has spent time training and polo in Sotogrande, Spain.

Indonesia, coached by the renowned Nico Curto, has been preparing for the past month in Calatagan.

The Indonesians have been borrowing horses from Romero’s stable to get ready.

A high game of 46 and a low game of 2 will be played in two fields, at Miguel Romero Field and at the Inigo Zobel turf in Calatagan.

Romero will play alongside Coco Garcia, Jam Eusebio, Santi Juban, Antonio Veloso, and lone female entry Nicole Eusebio. The event will certainly add star power to the biennial event with the expected arrival of the who’s who in the region—royalties, tycoons and high government officials of all participating countries.

“We have so many unsung heroes and heroines in putting up this kind of tournament and everybody experienced birth pains,” added Romero, who is also referring to Philippine National Federation of Polo Players officials, who made the tournament possible.

“I congratulate the polo federation for its full enthusiasm not only for the sport but most especially for the country’s hosting of the 30th SEA Games,” Philippine Olympic Committee President Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.

On the Bamboo Pavillon, Tolentino said: “This pavilion—so unique and a priceless architectural masterpiece—showcases Filipino spirit, tradition, and love for sports.”

The polo athletes also drew major support from the Philippine Sports Commission, especially during training camp for the Games.

 “As Team Philippines wages for battle in the 30th SEA Games starting with our polo athletes, I call on our countrymen to show their support,” PSC Commissioner Charles Maxey said. Our athletes prepared hard for the Games and they need all the prayers and love from the Filipino people.”