Monthly Archives: April 2010

Judy and Milton celebrated their special day at Val de Vie, and as these dazzling photos by ProPhotography show, it was an exceptionally beautiful occasion. Coordinated by Cream Event Library, the celebration captured a true sense of elegance. View more images of this enchanting wedding at the ProPhotography blog.

Val de Vie has fast become one of the most enchanting settings in South Africa for celebrating an unforgettable wedding. For a glimpse at Richelle and Wim's magnificent wedding at the estate, here is a video produced by FJS Productions, one of the country's premiere wedding videography teams.

The wedding was expertly coordinated by Jaco at Aleit, while photographer Jan Hendrik captured the occasion with his keen eye for detail.

John Lister, Polo Manager and Coach at Val de Vie, was delighted to recently attend a Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) clinic hosted by the Free State Polo Association in conjunction with SAPA (the South African Polo Association). Held at the lovely Uitgedacht Polo Club, the three-day “coach the coaches” clinic was headed by David Morley, an official HPA Team Coach, and forms part of SAPA’s goal to establish internationally recognised coaching qualifications for South Africa.

The clinic was the first of its kind in the country and awarded successful participants with official SAPA coaching qualifications, endorsed by the HPA. Not only will this ensure the quality and reputability of South African polo, it will also help to boost South African polo tourism, as these qualifications will meet travel insurance company criteria for foreign players wishing to enjoy polo holidays in the country.

As a major figure in the world of polo, David Morley quickly earned the respect and admiration of all participants. David comes from a distinguished equestrian family and has established an illustrious career in polo, horse dealing and show jumping. He has been involved in the HPA’s coaching movement since its inception and today he sits on the HPA coaching committee. Furthermore, he is one of only six people currently holding the highest coaching qualification granted by the HPA, which qualifies him to take a team to a tournament representing the HPA or England.

A host of other key polo professionals were present at the clinic, including Clive Peddle (SAPA Executive Director), Denton Osler (FSPA President) and Angus Yeats (FSPA Vice President). In addition, a “Coaching Committee” was elected by the participants, with representation from four provinces, as follows: Stephen Erskine (Natal), Craig James (Highveld), John Lister (Cape), Denton Osler (Free State and Chairman) and of course David Morley himself.

The clinic offered a mix of theoretical and practical work, covering topics such as polo riding techniques, tactical play and teaching methods. Participants also reviewed the new HPA rules thoroughly and all took the two part umpire test. The event was also the perfect opportunity for participants to simply improve their game, as well as to catch up with old friends and make new connections. A wonderful time was had by all, and the polo team at Val de Vie certainly looks forward to similar events in the future!