Polo Handicap System in the United Kingdom
Hurlingham Polo Association handicap system guide — scale, assessment criteria, and official resources.
Overview of the HPA System
The Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) governs polo in the United Kingdom and manages one of the world's most established handicap systems. Founded in 1875, the HPA is the oldest polo association and sets standards for the English-speaking polo world. The HPA system uses a -2 to 10 scale and maintains rigorous assessment standards through its Handicap Committee.
Handicap Scale
-2 to 10
Review Frequency
Biannual
Association
HPA
Variations
2
Handicap Scale Details
The HPA uses a -2 to 10 goal scale, with -2 representing complete beginners and 10 the world's elite players.
Beginners in the UK start at -2 after passing a basic rules test and demonstrating safe riding ability. The progression from -2 to 0 represents the learning phase, with players typically reaching 0 goal after 1-2 years of regular play. The HPA maintains detailed handicap records dating back over a century, making it one of the most comprehensive historical databases in polo.
Handicap Levels Reference
Novice
Learning the basics, can ride safely
Beginner
Can play slow chukkas, understands rules
Intermediate
Club-level tournament player
Good Amateur
Skilled, consistent technique
Strong Amateur
High amateur, often semi-pro
Professional
Top-tier professionals
Elite
World-class players (~50 globally)
Assessment Process
The HPA Handicap Committee meets regularly throughout the season to review player ratings. Initial handicaps require passing a written rules test and riding assessment conducted by HPA-approved examiners. Subsequent ratings are based on tournament performance and recommendations from clubs and umpires. The committee uses a combination of statistical analysis and subjective evaluation.
The Handicap Committee includes experienced players, professional polo managers, and HPA officials. Major reviews occur mid-season (July) and end of season (September/October). Committee decisions can be appealed through a formal process within 14 days of publication.
Evaluation Criteria
Playing Performance
Consistent match performance in tournaments and club play
Riding Ability
Horse control, speed management, safety awareness
Ball Hitting
Technical proficiency across all shot types
Game Understanding
Tactical awareness, positioning, anticipation
Team Contribution
Ability to enhance team performance beyond individual statistics
Update Schedule: Biannual
Primary reviews occur mid-season and end of season. High-goal players may receive additional scrutiny during major tournament periods. The HPA publishes updated handicap lists on its website after each review cycle.
Handicap Variations
Women's Handicaps
The HPA introduced separate women's handicaps in 2015. Women players now hold two ratings: a general handicap for mixed competition and a separate women's handicap for women-only tournaments. This allows for more accurate seeding in women's events while maintaining a unified ranking for mixed play.
Arena Polo
Arena polo has its own separate handicap system in the UK. Arena handicaps are assessed independently based on arena tournament performance, as the indoor game requires different skills and tactics than outdoor polo.
Eligibility & Rules
All players competing in HPA-sanctioned events must hold an HPA handicap. New players must pass the HPA rules test, provide proof of riding competence, and register through an affiliated club. Foreign players may use their home association handicap with HPA reciprocity, subject to adjustment after UK tournament performance.
Official Resources
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