27/05/2026
The 2026 Lusaka Ladies International delivered a spectacular weekend of polo, camaraderie, and fierce competition, bringing together players across generations and divisions in a celebration of Zambiaβs vibrant polo community.
Against the backdrop of brilliant Lusaka bush and packed sidelines, the tournament showcased everything that makes Zambian polo special β high-quality sport, family participation, emerging young talent, and the unmistakable spirit of grassroots polo. All in support of the main event: The Ladies International against South Africa.
The headline event, the Nederburg Ladies International, saw the Zambia Polo Association side crowned champions after an impressive weekend of determined and disciplined polo. Emily Paterson (5), Sally Jellis (5), Mary Jellis (4), and Pammy Greenshields (3) combined experience, teamwork, and composure to secure the title in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.
South Africa produced a strong and highly competitive campaign to finish runners-up, represented by Bianca du Toit (4), Amy Gace (4), Courtney Soal (3), and Lucy Brooke-Leggatt (3). The international clash once again highlighted the growing strength and camaraderie of womenβs polo within the region.
Individual performances throughout the weekend were equally celebrated. Mary Jellis (4) was recognized as MVP of the Ladies International following a commanding display throughout the competition. While, Claire Robinson (2) earned MVP honours in the Ladies Division for her outstanding performances and consistency across the Ladies Division.
The Best Playing Pony awards reflected the exceptional quality of horseflesh presented over the weekend. βSweet Serenade,β owned by Nick and Lilo Paterson and ridden by Emily Paterson, claimed the Ladies International Best Playing Pony title after an outstanding tournament. In the Ladies Division, βMarley,β owned by Kevin and Victoria Coventry and played by Lucy Brooke-Leggatt, took home top pony honours.
The Ladies Division produced tightly contested matches and showcased both established players and exciting up-and-coming talent. Megan Viljoen (3), Pammy Greenshields (3), Claire Robinson (3), and Lucy Brooke-Leggatt formed the winning side sponsored by Micmar, while Courtney Soal (3), Emily Paterson (5), Savannah Coventry (3), and Bunty Howard (1) finished in second place for the Nederburg team. Third place went to Wonderful Group: Roz Vincent (3), Sammy Brown (0), Amy Gace (4), and Mary Jellis (4), with Bianca du Toit (4), Sally Jellis (5), Katie Paterson (1), and Jordy Bruyns (2) finishing fourth for Outset Africa.
One of the standout features of the weekend was the inclusivity and family atmosphere surrounding the event. From the Kiddies Division and junior presentations to spectators and honorary members being recognized, the tournament reinforced the importance of polo as a community sport in Zambia.
The Purple Division brought energy, enthusiasm, and exciting young talent to the field. Team Plascon, Cody Robinson (0), Dominic Dunn (-1), Zach Dunn (1), and Lisa Stubbs (-1.5) emerged victorious, while Jason Vincent (0), Caleb Coventry (0.5), Woxie Bruyns (0), and Lilly Miller (-2) finished runners-up representing CHC.
In the Blue Division, Hybrid Poultry Farm Zambia represented by Tristan Clayton (3), Benjy Coventry (2), Edwin Miller (1.5), and Tristan Kirby (0.5) secured the championship after a strong weekend campaign. Brent Greatorex(1.5)/ Benjy Coventry (2), Niels Bojsen (1), Ryan Jellis (1.5), and Jamie Henderson (3) finished as runners-up for A&P International.
Several special awards, sponsored by Prime Venue, recognized moments and personalities that added character to the tournament weekend. Daiel Luyt (2.5) received the award for Biggest Ride-Off of the Weekend, while Tristan Kirby (0.5) earned the Precision Penalty Shot award. Edwin Miller (1.5) was recognised for the Most Impressive Goal of the Tournament, and in true polo tradition, Benjy Coventry (2) humorously collected the βWorst Foul of the Tournamentβ award while simultaneously being named MVP for the Blue Division.
The Zambia Polo Association also took time to honour long-serving members and supporters of the game, including honorary member Alfy and Heather Francis (retired) ZPA Treasurers, recognizing their lasting contribution to the sport and community for over 40 years!
From elite ladies polo to youth divisions, outstanding horses, and memorable presentations, the 2026 Lusaka Ladies International once again demonstrated why Zambian polo remains one of the most unique best kept secrets on the amateur polo scene in the world.
South African Polo Association
Nederburg Wines
Jenna Olson Coventry - Archivist
