The Pete Collins Trust is a charity organisation which has been established for numerous years. The main aim of the trust is to help finance individuals and organisations in order to gain qualifications to safely teach and encourage outdoor pursuits.
Taunton Canoe Club opened its hut doors to other local polo teams to contest a series of friendly polo games on the river Tone. Just like last year we had a great day with many fiercely contested matches being played in the glorious sunny weather. Six teams in total played a ‘round-robin’ tournament prior to a final crunch match for the trophy. Wellington Kayak Club showed great strength in fielding two strong teams. Taunton also put forth a strong team of mixed abilities as well as lending a few key players to create a second Sutton Bingham team. Queens College made their riverside debut with a staff and pupil scratch team, who played well throughout the day.
Numerous games and a tight schedule meant little rest between frantic games. Wellington’s two teams proved very difficult to beat with Taunton also playing with panache. Sutton Bingham and Queens played consistently strong polo, in keeping with the ethos of the day i.e. a fun and open tournament for all. With suntans topping up, a key match between Taunton and Wellington ‘B’ saw Wellington gain a well-earned 2-1 victory over Taunton.
Since with the Pete Collins Trophy is awarded to a club, and the two Wellington teams finished top, it was decided that as in previous years, the top two clubs should play a final match for the priviledge of holding the trophy for the next year. Therefore Welling and Taunton picked their best teams from the available players for a final match.
A tight fought battle saw Wellington the deserving winners, finally taking the cup home after several years in Taunton’s tight grip.
A great day was had by over 50 competitors and spectators and many thanks must be extend to all especially those who helped everything run to plan. It was good to get all the local clubs together and its always great to play polo!
Thanks to everyone who attended and to all who helped out with the organisation and setting up the course.