Bridging cultures through polo
▲A book launch centered on polo culture was held on World Book Day at the embassy of Argentina in China, bringing together representatives from diplomatic, cultural, academic and publishing sectors to explore the role of sport in cross-cultural exchange. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
A book launch centered on polo culture was held on World Book Day at the embassy of Argentina in China, bringing together representatives from diplomatic, cultural, academic and publishing sectors to explore the role of sports in cross-cultural exchange.
Two titles — Polo View and Polo in China, published by the Polo Studies Center at Tianjin University — made their debut at the event. Organizers said the launch went beyond a conventional book promotion, positioning the publications as vehicles for dialogue between civilizations through academic research and cultural expression.
The two works offer complementary perspectives on polo. Polo View, co-created by World Press Photo award winner Wang Yao and scholar Wang Jingchan, presents more than 200 images capturing the sport's dynamism and aesthetics, framed through a visual-anthropological lens.
Polo in China, by contrast, traces the sport's historical development from the Tang (618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties to modern times, supported by nearly 500 images and extensive research. The book was named among the Best Books of 2025 by Sino United Publishing Group.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Wang Jingchan said polo could serve as a "universal language" connecting cultures. She revealed that French and Spanish editions of Polo in China are in preparation, part of a broader effort to promote international dialogue around Chinese polo culture. The center is also developing outreach programs aimed at younger audiences to expand participation in the sport.
▲A book launch centered on polo culture was held on World Book Day at the embassy of Argentina in China, bringing together representatives from diplomatic, cultural, academic and publishing sectors to explore the role of sport in cross-cultural exchange. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
At the event, Argentine Ambassador to China Marcelo Suarez Salvia highlighted polo's unique role in linking the cultures of China and Argentina, expressing hope for deeper people-to-people exchanges.
Lyu Jing of Tianjin University said the publications reflect the university's efforts to promote mutual learning among civilizations, while Guan Hong of China Intercontinental Press described polo and horse culture as shared cultural symbols bridging China and the world.
A video message from Argentine polo historian Luisa Miguens, recorded in Buenos Aires, added a personal dimension to the event, underscoring the connections fostered through academic exchange. The launch ceremony, themed around the idea of a "bridge," was followed by a book signing and discussions between the authors and attendees.
Organizers said the event illustrates how academic research and artistic expression can work together to advance cultural exchange, with polo — an ancient sport rooted in values of teamwork and respect — continuing to find new relevance in a global context.