16TH December1992

The world Elephant Polo Association Championship was played at Meghauly airfield adjacent to Chitwan National Park Nepal from 10th – 15th December 1992. For the third year in succession, the Nepalese National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Depatment team claimed the coveted Tiger Tops trophy when they beat the international J&b Rare whiskey team 6-4 in the final.

The Tiger Tops Tigressess caused an upset by beating the favourite Tiger Tops Tuskers 6-1 for 3rd and 4th places. The Hathi Sathis, a British team from the Gurkha Security Service finished fifth and also took the British Gurkha Khukri award for the Best Dressed Team. Other teams consisted of the Swiss Navy from the Cresta Club the Bristish Gurkha Gladiators which decisive goal against the elegant Innerasia Infidels from California, captained by the glamorous Ann Aylwin.

The J&B Rare Whiskey Shield an All- Nepal challenge was played this year between National Parks and Tiger Tops on their own elephants. The elephants were driven by the polo players, a unique event which proved extremely exciting and competetive.Tiger Tops Tuskers had their revenge by beating the  Nepal National Parks team 1-0 and the Tigresses  were beaten by the visiting ladies 3-1.

The invitational World Elephant Polo Association Championship is played annually at Tiger Tops. It was attended by press and visitors from all over the world as well as local dignitaries. Her Royal Highness Princess Jotshana of Nepal graciously presented the trophies.

Each match consist of two 10 minutes chukkers.The 90 inch Long bamboo polo sticks are whielded by four players in each team who are tied on to their elephants’ back with ropes. The elephant driver sits behind the ears and hard hats for all are compulsory. The ball is same as that used in pony polo, and the referee, Chuck McDougal, empires the same from the back of his tusker. The British Gurkhas undertake the responsibility of timekeeping and commentating. Spectators and guests are joined by hundreds of enthusiasts from the local villages who converge on Meghauly to enjoy the event. For further information pleasecontact Lisa Choegyal.