This calculator contains some pertinent dimensions of the sport of polo.

The first tab of the calculator contains primary dimensions of the polo field.

The second tab of the calculator contains limiting factors of polo play, such as the estimated top speed of a horse and the min/max length of a polo mallet.

The third tab uses the limiting factors to describe possible scenarios in the Polo world such as accelerations, travel times, impact forces.

The Polo Pony

"Any horse that is fifty-eight inches (14 hands) or less is considered a pony regardless of its breeding. The term “polo pony” dates back to the early years of polo in the United States when height restrictions were mandated. Unlike any other sport, the horse defines the game and plays a substantial role in a player’s proficiency. In fact, by definition alone, a polo pony, “a horse trained for use as a mount in playing polo and characterized primarily by endurance, athleticism, speed, courage, and docility,” is often considered the single greatest determinant of match outcome.

The equipment a polo pony requires is different than that used in other equestrian sports. A polo pony will not be successful without a competent groom (or multiple grooms all familiar with the horses.) Manes are shaved and the ponies’ tails are wrapped or braided to prevent the hazard of becoming entangled with players’ mallets or reins. As the unsung heroes of the game, the grooms take care of all the day-to-day responsibilities behind the scenes.

Although there is crossover in the breeds used to play and they can be of any size, the best polo ponies are of the thoroughbred blood whose main qualities are heart, speed, wind, stamina, with the ability to accelerate, stop and turn quickly; and whose temperament is amenable to the rigors of match play. Many polo players describe their best mounts as having big hearts, an aggressive confidence, and a feel for the game."¹ 

The Rules of Polo

The official rules of Polo are obtainable at the US Polo Association (USPA) site.² The main rule that defines play is the “line of the ball” which is the trajectory the ball follows after any player hits the ball.  This of course is a very physics/vector type of concept.

See also

HorseHints.org

United States Polo Association

1. ^ http://uspolo.org/the-sport/the-horses
2. ^ http://uspolo.org/the-sport/rules