Saturday 12th July 2025 — The Rundle Cup 2025 once again took its place as a standout occasion in the Royal Navy’s sporting and social calendar — a magnificent celebration of enduring partnerships, camaraderie, and excellence both on and off the polo field. Team Forces was proud to support this cherished Navy Polo fixture, welcoming a record 190 guests to the marquee — the highest attendance to date and a true testament to the event’s continued strength and appeal.
The day began with inspiring remarks from Admiral Sir Keith Blount, President of Navy Polo, and Commodore Dean Bassett, Chairman of Navy Polo, who warmly welcomed guests and reflected on the enduring spirit, resilience, and unity of the Armed Forces community. Major General Lamont Kirkland, CEO of Team Forces, spoke with characteristic passion about the charity’s mission and the life-changing impact it continues to deliver across Defence.
Guests enjoyed a superb luncheon in fine company, hearing remarkable stories from some of our inspirational beneficiaries. Major Henry Wootton shared his ambitious preparations for the legendary Golden Globe Race, CPO Amy Taylor recounted her remarkable journey to representing Great Britain in international show jumping, and Heather Sharp, founder of the Forces Wives Challenge, reflected on her initiative’s extraordinary growth in empowering Forces wives across the Services.
The centrepiece of the day, the Rundle Cup match, lived up to its storied reputation, delivering a thrilling contest punctuated by a moment of light-hearted chaos as a spirited terrier briefly interrupted play — much to the crowd’s delight and the commentary box’s amusement. In a hard-fought and entertaining match, it was the Army who ultimately claimed victory, adding another memorable chapter to this historic rivalry.
The afternoon concluded with a surprise presentation, as Capt. Greg Leland (USN), US Defence Attaché, paid heartfelt tribute to Commodore Dean Bassett for his exemplary service and leadership in strengthening the ties between the US and the Royal Navy through polo. The day drew to a light-hearted close as the British weather made its mark — sending the Army’s bright red hospitality gazebo spectacularly airborne across the pitch, much to everyone’s amusement.
We extend our thanks to our title sponsors, Palo Alto Networks and ARX Robotics, whose support also extended to the Army Polo Team and the match officials, reinforcing the vital link between Defence, industry, and sport. Once again, the Rundle Cup proved itself more than a sporting contest; it remains a shining example of tradition, friendship, and the enduring spirit of the Armed Forces family.
Images Sam Churchill Photography 2025
