City Polo is proud to announce the appointment of Nicci Lee Watson as its new Head of Marketing and Communications. With a dynamic background in brand elevation, digital storytelling, and audience engagement, Nicci brings the bold vision and strategic leadership needed to amplify City Polo’s mission: to democratise polo and unlock the full potential of the equine industry across the African continent.
Nicci joins the company under the leadership of Craig James, Founder and CEO of City Polo, who boasts over 25 years of experience in the equine industry. As the former Managing Director of South Africa’s most prestigious polo institution, the Inanda Polo Club, Craig’s influence in the sport has been unmatched – nurturing talent from grassroots to international multi-handicap professional players, and developing an ecosystem of skilled professionals across the equine value chain.
Together, Nicci and Craig are charting an ambitious course to make polo more accessible, inclusive and economically impactful. From the exhilarating Kurland Park International Tournament in Plettenberg Bay to the much-anticipated Africa Cup this October, City Polo’s calendar is not just about elite sport – it’s about opening doors to opportunity.
“City Polo isn’t just about horses and high society,” says Nicci Lee Watson. “It’s about legacy, access and transformation. We see polo as a powerful vehicle to introduce the equine industry to previously disadvantaged communities and ignite a new era of job creation, skills development and pride.”
City Polo’s vision goes far beyond the playing field. By building world-class experiences and equine events that attract global participation, the organisation aims to drive international investment, sports tourism, and youth development, positioning polo as a key contributor to South Africa’s broader economic future.
Why Polo? Why Now?
The global equine industry is worth over $300 billion USD, employing millions across breeding, training, transport, veterinary services, tourism, eventing and media. In South Africa, with its rich history of horsemanship and world-class landscapes, the equine economy is an underutilised powerhouse. City Polo believes in unlocking this potential to drive meaningful socio-economic change, especially for South Africa’s youth.
“We are committed to contributing to South Africa’s 2030 goals,” adds Craig James. “We believe that polo can play a catalytic role in positioning South Africa as a country of excellence, and we are proud to lead the charge toward hosting the First International Polo World Cup on African soil in 2030.”
Nicci’s appointment signals an exciting new chapter for the sport, one where innovation, accessibility and cultural relevance take centre stage. With her flair for storytelling, strategic vision, and passion for transformation, City Polo is poised to elevate polo from a niche sport to a national symbol of pride, progress and possibility.
