US team to compete Snow Polo World Cup
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US Polo team to compete in the Third Annual Snow Polo World Cup at the Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club in January 2014
By Alex Webbe
Action is scheduled to get underway on January 8, 2014, and conclude with a January 19 final. Last year’s winners, Hong Kong, will return to the snow to defend their title, with 11 other 14-16 goal handicap teams (Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, England, France, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa, Spain, and the USA) in the mix.
This year’s US entry will have some faces familiar to the International Polo Club regulars as 6-goalers Tommy Biddle and Pelon Escapite hit the snow. Three-goaler Del Walton will round out the side with coach/reserve Joel Baker as support and backup.
The three-man lineup might just favor the United States with the players entering the competition with their field handicaps.
Tommy Biddle remains the world’s only 10-goal arena player, giving him a distinct advantage in the three-man-a-side, arena. Biddle is a long ball hitter and a physically imposing figure on the field and no stranger to international competition. A former 8-goal field player and winner of the US Open, the veteran is certain to offer the leadership skills necessary to bring home the trophy.
Pelon Escapite has years of high-goal experience at IPC and has played at virtually every level of play. A past winner of the Miami Beach Polo World Cup and MVP in the three-man competition, his aggressiveness and hard-riding style of play will compliment Biddle in this competition.
Del Walton will round out the lineup, bringing with him a polo tradition and classic style of play. He will be counted on to do some 0f the heavy carrying in the tournament, allowing both Biddle and Escapite scoring opportunities.
Joel Baker will be coaching from the sidelines and available as a substitute player if needed. Baker spent years competing in high-goal play in both the arena and the field.
“I’m thrilled to be able to represent my country again,” said Biddle, “and I think we have a very competitive team.”