Daniel Batchelor

Daniel Batchelor wearing Oakley Polo glasses and a black shirt in South Africa

daniel batchelor


Q: How did you get involved with the Oswald brand?

A: I met Jess, the Oswald founder, and Oswald ambassador, Holly Gadsby, during the 2023 season in Cowdray as they had both moved down to the area for the polo season.  I had always really liked the Oswald brand and products so I was delighted when I was asked to join the Oswald team.


Q: If you weren't playing polo what would you be doing?

A: I would love to be a racehorse trainer, as it runs in my family. I love the sport and the horses are true athletes, I have such great respect for them.


Q: Who is your best pony?

A: I have to say Cayley, a small but mighty dark bay mare, bought from Tom and David Morley. I have played her my entire career which spans the last eleven years and has included every level from pony club to a high goal game. Cayley has to be the most genuine pony I have ever sat on and she has put everything into every game we've ever played. She holds a very special place in my heart.


Q: What is your earliest polo memory?

A: As a child, I spent my summers living in Argentina and I used to stick and ball and play chukkers with my parents nearly every day, which was one of my fondest memories. I remember playing in a kid's tournament that my Dad organised with Tolo Polo at La Taba in Salvador Maria in Argentina, and tearing up the pitch on my tiny ponies Jack and Blossom. I was seven years old and it was so much fun!


Q: What is your favourite country to play in?

A: Without a doubt, South Africa, in Plettenberg Bay, I've never been anywhere like it - the vibe and atmosphere is unbeatable. I've made so many memories and met the best people. Plett is a coastal paradise, the polo is always fun and a great level, the polo club is stunning and the beaches really top it off!


Q: What do you look for in a pony?

A: I prefer smaller types, so anything around 15hh is ideal. I look for horses to be well-balanced, have a light mouth, nice sides, stop well and be as tough as possible when you need it.


Q: What is your most prized possession?

A: My grey mare, Paloma, who I brought over from Argentina in 2019. I have known her since she was a youngster and we had an instant connection the moment I first rode her, so I had to fly her over to the UK.


Q: What is your most played song on Spotify right now - no cheating?

A: "Baddest" by Vibe Chemistry and "Jungle" by Alok are on repeat right now.


Q: What is your drink of choice?

A: Mango daiquiris are the best!



Q: What are your plans for the next year?


A: Next year I will be reducing my playing string to allow myself to play more abroad. I am also organising a new tournament that brings a fresh aspect to the polo community.


I love the Oswald clothing range and my favourites are the Oswald Oversized Quarter Zip and the Husky padded coat, which makes the UK winters survivable and warm!



MY FAVOURITES

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