Moiz Boys celebrating their victory after the final match. — Photos YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
THE third Malaysia Youth Polo Tournament (3MYPT) concluded with the Moiz Boys team securing a dramatic 6-5 victory against International All Stars.
The win came thanks to a decisive shot by team captain Imran Moiz in the final chukka.
It was a hard-fought match with both teams exchanging leads throughout the four seven-minute chukkas.
The International All Stars featured players Ayaan Khan from India, Ibrahim Sultan from Pakistan and Miqayl Djedovic from Croatia, who played together for the first time.
Moiz Boys (in blue) in action against the International All Stars team at Kuala Lumpur Polo Club.
Despite their strong performance, the Moiz Boys featuring brothers Imran, Arman, Suleiman and Ashman emerged victorious in a closely contested final.
Imran, who is also a SEA Games athlete, emphasised the significance of his team’s win.
“It was a challenging and fulfilling match,” said Imran, who was named Most Valuable Player in the final match.
“Having the Moiz Boys play against the International All Stars that comprised international and local players was an eye-opening experience that will help us progress in the sport,” Imran added.
The tournament, held at Kuala Lumpur Polo Club, off Jalan Ampang Hilir in Kuala Lumpur, was organised by KL Academy of Polo (KLAP).
Natasha emphasises the importance of promoting NCSM’s cause.
It serves as a stepping stone for youth players under 20 before they move up to open championships.
This year, it featured four teams – International All Stars, Global All Stars, Moiz Boys and Malaysian All Stars.
The event thus showcased young polo talents from both Malaysia and overseas.
Earlier in the tournament, the International All Stars secured a victory over Global All Stars.
However, in a subsequent round-robin match, Global All Stars bounced back to defeat Malaysian All Stars 6-2.
Tournament director and KLAP coach Agha Murtaza Ali praised the high level of competitiveness at this year’s event.
“In its third edition, we have had the most competitive tournament yet.
“It was a spectacular event that saw such a closely contested final,” he added.
The 3MYPT also aimed to raise awareness of childhood cancer.
With the theme, “Passion for Compassion,” it supported the work of the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM).
Other than supporting cancer patients, the non-governmental organisation educates the public on prevention and early detection of cancer.
Watching the event and enjoying a relaxing day at the polo grounds were 12 families who had children diagnosed with cancer.
Imran acknowledged the significance of the tournament: “Playing in the 3MYPT to raise awareness of the work that NCSM does for children with cancer is an honour.”
The event also fostered empathy in the players who spent time with the children.
Organising chairman and KLAP chief executive officer Natasha Mustapha said, “Having young players display compassion for those who are facing their own hurdles in life is wonderful.
“Their minds have been opened to the difficult circumstances some have had to face at such a young age.
“It’s been inspiring to connect with NCSM in hopes that this event would become a wider platform for their cause.”
She also pointed out how the tournament provided younger players with a valuable opportunity to compete with their peers.
The three-day event began with a welcome speech and dinner, followed by a “Relay For Life” torch run on the second day.
The last day included the final, mounted parade and prize-giving ceremony.
Imran expressed his excitement for the future.
“It’s been an amazing experience competing in this tournament,” he said.
“I’m grateful to my team and coaches for their support and excited to continue growing and improving in this sport.”
Looking ahead, Natasha hopes the tournament’s fourth edition will attract more participants.
“We aim to expand the tournament and bring in more teams next year because it provides a valuable platform for players to develop their skills,” she said.
