The 2024 Ibadan Women’s Polo Showcase, which celebrates women in polo, especially upcoming women players, held at the 2024 Ibadan International Polo Tournament, Ibadan Polo Club. The participants included Emilia Fingesi from Port Harcourt, Tope Emiola from Ibadan, Hadiza Shehu from Abuja, and Agata Baltuonyte from Jos. The teams were supported by male players Usman Idris from Jos, Alhaji Saidu Umar from Ibadan, and Suleiman Isyaka from Ibadan.
Some of the inquiries I received after the game were from people wanting to learn more about Agata, so let’s do this:
Agata, originally from Lithuania, has been living in Jos, Nigeria, with her family since 2021. She rides for the Red Crown Polo stables, patronized by Samy Nasreddin, and is coached by Usman Idris, Red Crown’s leading player.
Agata began horse riding at the age of five at Sporto Klubas Priekulės Žirgai in Lithuania. She started polo training in July 2022 at the Red Crown Stables in Jos, Nigeria, and played her first beginner tournament at the 2023 Keffi Polo Ranch Tournament. Her second tournament was the 2024 Ibadan Women’s Polo Showcase, where she scored four goals for the Red Crown Team, becoming the highlight of the match.
In Usman Idris’ words, “She really made me proud”
In Agata’s words, I thank my coach, Usman, for teaching me polo very well and telling me there is nothing to worry about before the competition. Thank you, Samy, for always being with me and supporting me. I thank my parents for supporting me. Thank you, Mom, for always taking me horse riding lessons and always being by my side. Thank you, Dad, for always supporting me and always telling me not to give up.
Agata’s journey is one to watch; we are very excited to see her reach for the stars.
Agata and Usman Idris her coach at the Keffi Polo Tournament (December 2023). Photos from the Red Crown Instagram
Agata at the 2024 Ibadan Women’s Polo Showcase (May 2024) featuring her Dad, Tadas Baltuonyte, and Hadiza Shehu. Photos by FotoNugget and YaxsSportLens
