Getting to Know You! - 'The Voice of Polo'
5 minutes & 10 Questions with Jan-Erik 'The Voice of Polo'
Q1: How did you first get in to Polo?
In my life before Polo I spent several years in Germany working for Bacardi Rum. Bacardi became the importer and agents for Champagne Pommery in 1996 which was when I was promoted to look after the brand nationally. A couple of years later I was then asked to manage the brand in the UK and then moved to the UK in 1998. It was one of my key missions to establish and promote the brand in the world of Polo.
Q2: Favourite Polo Event in the world?
A very difficult question to answer as there are so many great polo events that I’ve been fortunate enough to attend over the years. For sure St. Moritz snow polo is right up there. But there are also so many other wonderful tournaments all over the world that I have enjoyed attending over the last 10 years of which I have very fond memories.
Q3: Your top 3 items to take in your luggage when travelling?
Nice question... As I can’t live without my music, my little Marshall speaker is always my companion when I travel, especially if it’s for longer periods of time. Then of course the old tooth brush is a “must have” and thirdly my Passport. Can’t get very far without that one.
Q4: Best advice any one ever gave you?
Again I could give you a long list of great advice given to me over the years but the answer that comes to mind straight away is the 1st piece of advice given to me when I entered the Polo world back in 1998 by Kenny Jones, former drummer of THE WHO and owner of Hurtwood Park Polo Club. He said, “you seem like a nice guy but try and stay out of “Polo-tics” it’s not a good place to be”. At first of course I didn’t understand what he meant but I quickly learned and have followed his advice and continue to do so to this very day. Cheers Kenny 🤙🏼
Q5: Your motto to live by?
There are many mottos that I live by but, all with the same intention which is to get the most out of life whilst being healthy and happy. At this time in my life and living in a world that is so rapidly changing all the time, the motto I live by is “learn quickly and live slowly” Live your dream as much you can....
Q6: Your favourite La Martina piece?
My La Martina Knee Pads. Best I’ve ever had. No doubt !! love ‘em
Q7: Your dream holiday destination?
Hawaii. Skiing in the morning and surfing in the afternoon
Q8: Favourite Polo Club?
Really couldn’t say. There are so many amazing Polo clubs and venues all over the world.
Q9: Favourite Polo Pony?
Her name was Mariana and she was a great pony. She was kind, forgiving, and a machine. You could put a baby on her back and she was the gentlest horse you could imagine. And if you wanted to turn her on during a game, she became a machine and did everything you asked of her. She later became a school horse and many who have ridden her also loved her. You go girl !!!!
Q10: In 5 year’s time I would like to be……… (finish this sentence!)
In 5 years I would like to have my toes in the sand and a nice drink in my hand
