SO shares breakfast in bed this morning with English polo champion Jamie Le Hardy, who has played polo since he was 18 in 26 different countries. Le Hardy, who’ll don the Bin 26 shirt today at Scotia Private Client Group Jamaica Open — From St Barth’s to Kingston, has a seven-goal handicap in arena polo and is visiting Jamaica for the very first time…

How has your trip been so far?

Great really. The weather has been good, the horses are great and the hospitality at the Jamaica Pegasus superb.

Is this a typical breakfast that you’re having or are you trying to impress Karen (Kranenburg)?

(Amidst chuckles and blushes). It’s a typical breakfast of cereal, green tea, orange juice, water and two ripe bananas.

What’s your early-morning ritual prior to a game of polo?

No abstinence the night before (smiles)… a light session in the gym, some stick and ball and lots of water to prevent dehydration.

After a game there’s the “warm down”, more water and a cold Red Stripe beer.

Which cologne are you splashing?

Polo by Ralph Lauren.

And your favourite beverage?

When it’s non-alcoholic it’s green tea and water — alcoholic, definitely rum and ginger. I’ve actually had Appleton rum but not in Jamaica so I’m eager to try some here.

What’s your fondest polo memory?

Playing for the UK and winning the British Open.

Finally, share with our readers a few tips on how to enjoy a game of polo.

Really watch the game. It’s a very different sport to what people perceive it to be. It’s a very fast, action-packed, adrenalin-rush sport. The power of the horses, the way they stop, turn and run. Sit at the front and feel the earth literally shake as eight horses gallop past you.

Polo communities around the world are a very welcoming family. And yes, there’s always a great post-polo party.