Badger

Badger was Cecil Smith’s great “war horse.” A big brown gelding, Badger carried the famed Texan 10-goaler for two chukkers in every close game Smith played from 1950 through 1961. Fellow 10-goaler Bob Skene stated that Cecil Smith was really worth 12 goals when he rode Badger. In later years, Badger was played by Cecil’s son, Charles Smith (also inducted into the Hall of Fame, in 2004). As durable as he was talented, Badger played polo until he was 20 years old.

Cecil Smith on Badger

Charles Smith on Badger, Oakbrook 1961

Watercolor portrait of Badger (Top Photo) by artist, Melinda Brewer; www.poloart.ca