Chapter 2 - Wrapping Legs and Braiding Tails (continued )

Braiding (or tying) the Tail

The reason the tail is tied is to prevent a mallet from getting caught in the tail hair.

There are two methods for tying the tail. One method uses tape to secure the tail, and the other involves tying the tail. Sometimes on game day it's best to use the taping method to make sure it stays secure. For scrimmages or practices, tying the tail will suffice.

Let's go over the taping method first. Stand closely behind the pony and braid the tail down to the end and place a small amount of tape at the end to secure. Depending on when the pony is to be played, you can leave the tail down for a while to give them a defense mechanism against flies.

Next step is to take the tail and fold it upwards, (once or twice, depending on how long the tail is) with the braid showing, then, while holding it firmly, place three bands of tape around it to hold it securely.

To tie the tail, follow these steps:

1. Braid the tail about half way down, leaving a strand hanging out of the braid. This strand will be used later.	2. Separate the balance of the tail into two sections. Fold the tail upwards and wrap the sections around the tail being sure to include the strand when wrapping.
3. Take the two ends and twist them until it forms a knot.	4. Securing the strand with your thumb to form a loop. Take the loop and begin wrapping it around the knot as many times as possible until it's tight.
5. Give a downward tug on the entire tail to clinch the knot.

This will take some practice. If you get into a situation where no tape is available, it's good to have this skill as a back up.

Part I - Polo Handbook by Sandy Herron | Part II -Handbook By Sue Sally Hale |

Part III - Grooming the Polo Pony by Carol Barker | Introduction | Preface
Chapter 1| Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4| Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Summary