Sydney Polo Country Club will host the prestigious event of behalf of the NSW Polo Association, and is keen to see a huge crowd turn out for the annual event.

In what promises to be a fast-paced, action packed weekend of polo, 17 teams will take to the field to battle it out, with one emerging victorious and taking home the King trophy.

The teams include a number of Hawkesbury riders, as well as interstate and foreign competitors, for an annual tournament held in honour of Hector King, a former World War II hero who was instrumental in establishing the County Polo Club, later known as Sydney Polo Club and was one of the players in the winning 1956 Countess of Dudley Cup team.

Mr King was famous for his horsemanship, striking of the ball and anticipation.

As club captain at County, he was generous with giving his time to new players, and improving them by including them in his teams.

On his premature death in 1968 at the age of 49, the Hector King Cup was instituted in his memory to formalise a tournament in which lower rated players could gain experience by playing alongside better players in medium goal polo – as encouraged by Hector King during his lifetime.

The preliminary rounds of the tournament will be held on Friday and Saturday, with finals action set for Sunday.

Members of the public are welcome each day, however Sydney Polo Country Club’s Peter Higgins recommends Sunday for families.

“Spectators will see top polo games on Sunday from some of the best players in our district,” he said.

“The day will provide an excellent opportunity for families looking for an exciting weekend event or horse enthusiasts to witness majestic and agile polo ponies in up close action.”

Entry to the tournament is free and there will be food and drinks for purchase and families can also bring a picnic lunch.

Finals action begins at 11am at 100 Ridges Lane, Richmond Lowlands.