Retrain Racehorses & Learn to Play Polocrosse in Zimbabwe

African HoofBeatz is a small-group equestrian placement based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, focused on retraining ex-racehorses for polocrosse, safari riding, and other second careers. It combines daily riding, practical horsemanship skills and immersive life on a Zimbabwean smallholding. Participants stay in a shared furnished cottage on the property, with space for up to four guests. The cottage includes a bedroom setup with single beds and bunk beds.

The programme is suitable for all riders from beginner level and above, but participants must be 18 or older. Less experienced riders are welcome, as Andy really enjoys building confidence in less experienced riders. Although some activities with younger or sharper horses may be more limited. The riding style you'll learn is described as a fusion of Western and English, We ride in Austrailan Stock saddles and We generally ride one-handed. 

No. You do not need any previous polocrosse experience, most of our participants have never even heard of polocrosse before! Participants are taught the basics of the sport, including the rules, stick-and-ball skills, and tactics, and can build up to friendly games and local practices.

The fee includes shared cottage accommodation, three meals a day, tea, coffee and water, WiFi, Laundry and cleaning, group transport within the programme, and all core equestrian activities including riding lessons, polocrosse practices, outrides, horsemanship, schooling, backing lessons, basic veterinary care, and stable management. It also includes one 4-day, 3-night horseback camping safari in the Matopos area.

International flights, visas, comprehensive travel and medical insurance, transfers outside the itinerary, drinks and meals in town, extra excursions, personal spending, and optional competitions such as polocrosse tournaments or local showjumping shows are not included.