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Saddle Up for the "Sport of Kings"

For Julia Roberts in the movie "Pretty Woman," the game of polo meant "getting your shoes polished by a member of the club." It also meant making a fantastic spectacle of herself and the man she's "not trying to land" by acting less than lady-like with some arm pumps and a few "whoop! whoop! whoops!" at a player's job well done.

But for Richmonders, the game of polo means a chance to gather together at the beautiful South Ceres Farm in Oilville for seven chukkers of mallet hooks, knock-ins and of course, goals during the 23rd annual Cadillac Cup Polo Match.

Gates open at 11:30 a.m. and after an elegant and stylish horse drawn, antique carriage parade, members of the American Commonwealth Polo team and England's British Forces Foundation Polo team will take to the field at 2 p.m.

The equestrian sport, which many believe dates back to 4th century B.C, consists of four players atop majestic, thoroughbred polo ponies who play between four and six chukkers (or rounds) in a span of seven and a half minutes each.

Players use wooden mallets to try and hit a small wooden or plastic ball through the opposing team's goal posts located at opposite ends of the field. The trick: remain mounted or your goal doesn't count.

Although the regal game of polo should be enough to spark your interest, the action on the field is only a fraction of why this event is so popular. And with three different ways to get in on the action, there's no excuse not to attend.

Dressed in "casual country club" attire, polo aficionados are invited to enjoy the excitement of dog agility trails and time in the Marey Market and Wine Garden.  The wine garden features a variety of impressive, local wineries and other unique vendors selling everything from handbags and jewelry to children's clothing and much more.

And what polo match would be complete without the traditional stomping of the divots? At halftime, help replace holes on the field made from the horse's hooves and player's mallets by filling in with your foot.

Just make sure you "beware of the steaming divot." (Another line for all you "Pretty Woman" fans).

While children ages 12 and under get in free, general admission tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the gate and include the dog agility trails, entrance to the wine tasting tent and of course, a spot to watch the polo match. Add another $75 to the general admission price and upgrade your group to reserved tailgate spot.

A note to tailgaters: don't forget your creativity or your floppy hats. Prizes will be awarded to the winner of the "Best Tailgate Competition."

For a high-class viewing spot, a special lunch buffet, complimentary beverages throughout the day, VIP parking and the opportunity to meet players from both Polo teams, purchase a Players' Tent admission ticket for $125.

In the spirit of linking a fun event to a worthy cause, proceeds from the polo match as well as the VIP Auction and Gala to be held on the evening of Friday, Sept. 12 for select sponsors and patron donors, will go to benefit the Goochland Free Clinic and Family Services , dedicated to helping impoverished individuals and families with food, emergency financial assistance, literacy, home repair and family support.

The 23rd annual Cadillac Cup Polo Match will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, rain or shine at South Ceres Farm in Goochland. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the gate. Players' Tent Tickets are $125. Children 12 and under get in free. Tickets can be purchased here , or by calling (804) 556-6565. For more information, visit commonwealthcup.com .