FORT: As Bombay Gymkhana marks 150 years since its founding, one of India’s most storied sporting institutions is preparing to revive a tradition that blends heritage, glamour and high-speed competition. The third edition of the Standard Chartered Bombay Gymkhana Arena Polo Championship 2026 is set to take place on Sunday, May 10, promising an evening of sport at one of Mumbai’s most iconic venues.

Founded in 1875, Bombay Gymkhana has long occupied a significant place in India’s sporting history. Over the decades, the club has been associated with some of the country’s most defining sporting moments and has served as a hub for disciplines including cricket, hockey, rugby and tennis. Most notably, the venue hosted India’s first-ever Test cricket match against England cricket team, cementing its legacy as a landmark in Indian sport.

The upcoming polo championship is part of the club’s year-long celebrations to commemorate its milestone anniversary. While polo has deep historical roots at the club, the tournament itself was revived only two years ago after being discontinued for nearly a century. Since its return, the championship has quickly become one of the most anticipated fixtures on the club’s sporting calendar.

Held on Bombay Gymkhana’s historic greens, the tournament offers a rare viewing experience that sets it apart from traditional polo events. Unlike larger venues where spectators are often seated at a distance, arena polo at the Gymkhana provides fans with a closer, more intimate perspective of the action.

Organisers say this format allows attendees to witness the speed, skill and coordination required in the sport from just a short distance away. The compact nature of the arena also adds to the intensity, making every move highly visible to the audience.

This year’s competition will feature two teams made up of three players each. The squads are expected to include a mix of seasoned riders and rising stars, creating a balance of experience and fresh talent. They will compete for the prestigious Bombay Polo Challenge Cup, first instituted in 1882 and considered one of the club’s most cherished trophies.

The match will be played in the fast-paced arena polo format, where teamwork and quick decision-making are crucial. The contest will unfold over four chukkers, with organisers expecting a closely fought encounter.

Adding a historical tribute to this year’s edition, the event has been dedicated to two officers of the Royal Engineers — Captain E. L. Maryyat and Lieutenant C. L. Young — who drafted the original blueprint for the formation of Bombay Gymkhana in 1875. The competing teams will be named in their honour: Team Captain E. L. Maryyat and Team Lieutenant C. L. Young.

Club President Sanjiv Saran Mehra said the championship reflects the club’s efforts to celebrate both its history and evolving sporting culture.

“As part of our 150-year celebrations, we are organising a mix of new and heritage sporting events. The arena polo championship is an important part of our sporting calendar,” Mehra said.

In a modern twist, the exhibition match will be played under lights, offering spectators a dramatic night-time spectacle and bringing a contemporary edge to one of the club’s oldest traditions.