DICKINSON — The Dickinson fairgrounds hosted the first annual Dakota Dust-up Polocrosse Tournament over the weekend, drawing participants from multiple states and Canada. The emerging sport, a blend of polo and lacrosse, saw competitors vying to get their ball through their opponents' goal posts while on horseback. "The horse is the hero," said Kristi Johnson, president of the Minnesota Polocrosse Club.
Johnson, who founded the club in 2001, emphasized the sport's family-oriented nature noting that, "we built a family here." Participants praised the event and the facilities at the fairgrounds. "The facility is amazing," said Matt Dekker, a player and one of the tournament organizers.
"This is such a family-oriented sport to play." Dekker, who has been involved in the sport for ten years, expressed his appreciation for the accommodations and playing fields. He also noted the family aspect of the sport, sharing that his son played on an opposing team.
ADVERTISEMENT The event attracted families from across the region, including the Huch family from Wisconsin. Their 12-year-old daughter, Payson Huch, participated in the tournament as a player on the B team. "They were new to the sport, and basically donated the use of their truck.
They would give the shirt off their backs for others," Johnson said of the Huchs. International participants also made significant journeys to attend. Kathy and Jeff McAteer drove 14 hours from Canada to compete.
Kathy, who has been playing for 14 yea.
