The 2025 Polo Awards celebrated the achievements of players, teams, and contributors across the sport in a night of recognition and inspiration, and the final award presented on the evening was the Performance Pathway Award, which recognises the player who has made the most significant contribution to the Performance Pathway programme over the past year.
This year’s recipient was Atticus Burnett, whose outstanding commitment and rapid development exemplify the goals of the Pathway. Working closely with his mentor, David Ashby, Atticus has demonstrated marked improvement in riding, playing, and particularly in horse training. His achievements include winning the prestigious Colts Cup and a strong commitment to the programme’s wider goals.
Atticus, 19, has also shown a keen interest in polo breeding and continues to develop his knowledge in this area. He plays out of Cheshire Polo Club, alongside Jonny and Lucy Coddington, and has become an integral part of their team. Atticus’s recognition through the Performance Pathway Award reflects not only his individual talent and dedication but also the strength of the Pathway programme in developing the future of British polo.
The award was presented by Ross Ainsley, who also supports young players through the Ainsley Saddlery Bursary. The bursary offers a $30,000 prize to a British player who reaches a 5-goal handicap by the age of 21, helping to support the next generation of British talent in achieving their goals in polo.
For the full story on the 2025 Polo Awards and to learn more about the night’s other award winners, click here. Highlights included Nina Clarkin being presented with the Medal of Honour in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the sport – read more here.
