By Ruth Ninajanty. Published in Polo Indonesia Magazine, first edition 2013.
The CEO of Andritz Hydro tells about how teamwork is essential to mastering the equestrian sport of polo.
Austrian native Josef Ullmer was born with strong affinity to horses that eventually drew him to the world of polo. But he says he doesn’t have a single favourite player in the sport.
“You always have to consider polo as a team sport which is always mixed with players of various skills in most of the tournaments. Polo is not about one single or two players getting down on the field. Everybody has to play and contribute, overcoming fears and doubts,” says Josef who plays polo in a regular basis.
With over 27 years of electric energy field under his belt, Josef has been based in Indonesia since early 1990s and currently helming Andritz Hydro, a global supplier of electro-mechanical systems and services for hydropower plants. Comparing his favourite sport with the business he’s currently running, he explains, “A good polo team is equal to a good business. You need to equip your players with the right skills and strategy, as well as how to provide the best players with the best horses. A great polo team demonstrates strong teamwork skills.”
Polo is a social game, he adds, as kids, mothers and fathers can enjoy the game. All his children are riders, the daughters are equestrian champs and the son is a polo player. As a part of polo community in Indonesia, he asserts he’s most pleased with the improvement of the local riders and players.
“I really look forward to seeing the time where polo is played not only in Jakarta, but also in other cities. Just like how the game is played in Malaysia and Thailand, I believe that we are able to create our own Indonesian polo leagues,” he said confidently.
