Selectors have named three members of the England polo squad that will contest the European Zone Championships in Warwickshire from 12 to 21 September.
James Beim (aged 22, five goals), Tom Morley (21, four goals) and Antony Fanshawe (four goals and in his 30s) will be up against sides from Holland, Italy, Ireland, Germany and Spain for the 10-14-goal tournament, which is also a qualifier for the 2004 World Championships at Chantilly, France.
Not every country is expected to be able to field a 14-goal side, although Italy is expected to include an Italian-Argentine or two to bring the team handicap within the requisite range.
The British trio will be joined by a one-goaler, probably Ashley Rake, 18, George Meyrick, 14, or John Martin, 17. Selection trials for the final place are still ongoing. Reserves are John Fisher and Jamie Le Hardy, both four-goal players.
The championships, taking place in England for the first time in eight years, will be held at the countrys newest club, Royal Leamington Spa (RLS) Polo Club, formerly known as Stoneleigh or Dallas Burston.
It will be the first high-profile tournament for RLS, which, despite its spanking new, top-class facilities and eight grounds, concentrates mainly on low-goal.
The European Womens Championships will take place during the same week.
For details (tel: 01926 817720) or visit: www.rlspoloclub.com
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