In the world of polo, the spotlight often shines on the players and their powerful ponies galloping across the field. Yet behind every great polo player stands a dedicated team—and at the heart of that team is the petisero, an unsung hero whose bond with the horses is fundamental to the sport.
What Is a Petisero?
The word petisero originates from the Spanish word petiso, meaning “small horse” or “pony.” In polo, a petisero is a groom who cares for the polo ponies, ensuring their health, readiness, and well-being both on and off the field. Their responsibilities go far beyond feeding and cleaning stalls—they manage the horse’s daily routine, tack preparation, training support, medical needs, and often travel with the horses to tournaments.
The Backbone of Polo Teams
Without the tireless work of petiseros, polo simply couldn’t exist at its current level of intensity and professionalism. Polo ponies are top athletes, and just like human athletes, they require constant conditioning, care, and attention. Petiseros develop a deep understanding of each horse’s personality, temperament, and physical condition. Their skill in preparing ponies to perform at their best directly impacts a team’s success on the field.
Petiseros are also crucial in emergencies. If a pony gets injured or becomes unwell, it's the petisero who notices first and takes immediate action. They are horse whisperers, caretakers, and equestrian technicians all in one.
A Unique Cultural Experience at Argentina Polo School
If you’ve ever dreamed of connecting more deeply with horses or stepping behind the scenes of polo, the Argentina Polo School in Mar del Plata offers something truly unique: the Petisero Experience.
This one-of-a-kind experience allows visitors to step into the boots of a petisero for a day. Under the guidance of experienced grooms and horse professionals, tourists get the chance to:
- Feed and groom a polo pony
- Learn how to saddle and prepare a horse for a match
- Understand the horse's daily care routine
- Gain insights into the special bond between horse and handler
- Walk alongside a true petisero and discover their daily life
Whether you're a polo enthusiast, a horse lover, or simply curious about authentic Argentine equestrian culture, the Petisero Experience is an eye-opening way to understand how much dedication and heart lies behind each chukker.
Why This Role Deserves More Recognition
In many sports, the work done behind the scenes is invisible to fans—but in polo, it's time we shine a light on the petiseros. Their knowledge, intuition, and love for the animals make them an irreplaceable part of the game. It is not just about brushing horses or tightening girths; it's about caring for a living, breathing athlete with respect and passion.
So next time you watch a match, remember: behind every thunderous gallop and perfectly timed play, there’s a petisero who made it possible.
