FAA Gallop to victory over the RAF

The first ever FAA v RAF polo match took place at RMAS Sandhurst making it a truly tri-service atmosphere. 

The FAA Polo team, sponsored by SERCO, is selected from the Royal Navy Polo Association and for this auspicious occasion was made up of Lt Bob Santrian (team captain) (Commando Helicopter Force, RNAS Yeovilton), Lt Tom Burrows (exchange at RMAS Sandhurst, Lt Hironobu Suzuki (RAF Cranwell) and representing the RNR, Surg Cdr Bowen. 

The match proved to be extremely exciting and entertaining for both players and spectators with the speed of the FAA‘s team dominating most of the play. A four chukka match saw the FAA demonstrate formidable team work and good communication skills and, apart from a worrying third chukka where the opposition threatened to turn the tables, managed to hold the RAF at bay on a well manicured pitch. 

Lt Tom Burrows proved his total commitment, some might say suicidal, by plummeting off and crashing through the goal posts whilst trying to score (the only fall of the day), the ball eventually being coaxed through the posts by the team’s highest handicapped player Lt Hiro Suzuki. 

 A final score of 3 ½ - 7 saw the FAA team victorious, finishing in time honoured fashion with cheers for both teams. On completion Mr Neil Wilmott (SERCO) presented prizes and accepted a coveted FAA Polo shirt as a mark of thanks. The jubilant FAA team are now fully committed to making this event and annual occasion.