Minninnooka

Polo Coaching, Chukkas & Horses in Surrey

Polo lessons, coaching, chukkas, horse production & growing the game for all ages and levels.

Our history

Minninnooka is built on generations of polo, horses, and family heritage stretching from Australia and Argentina to the UK.

The name comes from the Minninnooka station in Western Australia, where horses, farming, and polo were central to family life. Polo runs deep in our history, with my grandmother becoming the first woman to play polo in Western Australia and my father going on to become a 5-goal player.

That passion for horses and polo eventually brought me to England, where I met my husband Daniel, a professional polo player raised within Argentine polo culture.

Today, Minninnooka combines Australian heritage, Argentine polo tradition, and British polo life. Together we coach, produce horses, play polo, and introduce adults and children to the sport we love.

Now, with a fourth generation taking to the field, Minninnooka continues to grow — built on family, horses, and a lifelong passion for polo.

Our Polo & Riding School

Polo, horses, and coaching are at the heart of everything we do. We are passionate about sharing the sport we love and helping riders of all ages build confidence, skills, and enjoyment through horses and polo.

For adults, polo offers a fantastic way to improve fitness, mobility, coordination, and wellbeing while escaping the pressures of everyday life. For children, our structured programmes develop confidence, teamwork, responsibility, and sportsmanship both on and off the field.

Our friendly and supportive team is dedicated to creating a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding experience for every rider.

Ready to get started? Contact us on 07557 343355 or follow @minninnookapolo on Instagram to see what we're up to.

Academy

We provide a welcoming and supportive environment where riders of all ages can learn and enjoy polo. Our coaching is tailored to each rider's goals, with structured pathways designed to build confidence, skills, and game understanding.

Children follow a progressive programme covering riding, swing technique, tactics, and horsemanship, with opportunities to progress into chukkas, SUPA, and Pony Club competitions. We also offer lessons, training, chukkas, tournaments, and social events for riders of all levels.

Pony Club

As a Pony Club Centre, Minninnooka offers children the chance to explore polo, dressage, and showjumping. With expert coaching, well-trained horses, and a supportive environment, young riders build confidence, teamwork, and technical ability. Whether focusing on one discipline or seeking a well-rounded equestrian education, our programs help children achieve their goals and discover their passion.

Horses

Horses are at the heart of polo, and at Minninnooka they’re at the heart of everything we do. Founded by Kirstie and Daniel—whose passion for horses spans Australia, Argentina, Brunei, and India—we care for around 50 horses year-round, providing the highest standard of care and training.

We offer livery, retraining, chukka rentals, children’s ponies, and horses to build confidence or elevate your polo.

Community

At Minninnooka, community goes beyond the polo field. Social events are central—relaxed barn time, match days, and outings to dressage or showjumping. We also host clinics, talks, and sessions with horsemanship experts, creating chances to learn, connect, and share. Whether you love polo, horses, or the lifestyle around them, Minninnooka is a place to belong, grow, and have fun.

Extras and Experiences

At Minninnooka, we believe in offering riders the chance to explore every aspect of horsemanship and sport. Alongside our Polo Experience Days, we provide a full range of equestrian activities designed to challenge, inspire, and develop riders of all levels.

Take your riding further with instructional challenges that test precision, control, and technique. Refine your skills in the discipline of dressage, where balance, accuracy, and harmony with the horse are the focus. For those who love a thrill, our jumping sessions build confidence, agility, and partnership over fences. And if you prefer a more relaxed pace, enjoy scenic hacks that strengthen your seat and broaden your riding experience.

We can also create the perfect package for your group — whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues — giving you a full equestrian day tailored to your goals. To complete the experience, you can add authentic Argentine catering from Clara’s Cocina, bringing the spirit and flavour of polo’s homeland to your event.

Minninnooka is more than just a riding school: it’s a hub for complete rider development and unforgettable group experiences.

Meet Our Team

Kirstie Otamendi

Head Polo Coach – Minninnooka
Ladies 5 Goal Player | Mixed 1 Goal Player

Kirstie is Minninnooka’s Head Polo Coach and a highly experienced competitive rider with a strong background in riding, competing, and producing horses. A 5-goal ladies’ player and 1-goal mixed player, she brings both technical skill and high-level playing experience to her coaching. Kirstie specialises in matching riders with the right horses to advance their skills and confidence, ensuring every session is tailored for maximum development. With her wealth of knowledge and professional approach, she helps players of all levels refine their game and reach their full potential.

Daniel Otamendi

Professional Polo Player

Int. Handicap 4 | UK Handicap 3

Daniel Otamendi is a highly respected professional polo player with an international handicap of 4 and a UK handicap of 3. Known for his professionalism, dedication, and grit, he is always a team player with a deep understanding of the game. Daniel combines technical skill with strategic insight, enabling him to share his knowledge and passion with others. An outstanding horseman, he is equally devoted to producing top-quality polo ponies and retraining ex-racehorses (RoR), reflecting his commitment to both the sport and horse welfare.

Josh Leiva

HPA Coach & Professional Polo Player

Handicap 1

Josh Leiva is an approachable, calm, and fun coach whose goal is simple: to help every player improve and enjoy the game. A professional polo player with a handicap of 1, Josh brings creativity to his coaching, often drawing on his background in football coaching and lifelong passion for sport to find new ways to teach polo. With an intuitive eye for the game and a lead-by-example attitude, he combines technical skill with patience and clear communication, making him a valued coach for players at all levels.

Emma Leiva

Polo Manager

Emma brings over 35 years of equestrian and polo experience to Minninnooka, with a career that spans high-goal polo management and her role as Assistant Polo Manager at Guards Polo Club. Her extensive knowledge of horse care, training, and polo operations gives her a unique ability to support players, manage programs, and maintain the highest standards across the club. Known for her attention to detail and hardworking attitude, Emma is an invaluable mentor to younger players and a driving force in organising events and enhancing the overall Minninnooka experience.

Charlotte Klien

BHS APC Coach

Charlotte is a fun, supportive, and experienced coach who works with both children and adults. With over 20 years’ experience in further education and a strong background in alternative provision, she now works as a specialist teacher, bringing patience, understanding, and creativity to every session. Her approach makes learning enjoyable while helping riders build confidence, develop skills, and strengthen their partnership with their horse.

Welcome

Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of becoming a Minninnooka member?

As a Minninnooka member, you gain access to exclusive riding lessons, community events, clinics, and social gatherings. Membership also includes discounts on lessons.

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