Horseplay takes off but calls for deep pockets

Gripping his mallet, Peng Zhichun gallops toward goal on a Chinese polo field, one of a growing number of the country's wealthy elite discovering the joys of the sport.

"New clubs are opening and people are more into equestrian sports, into polo. There are more international players coming, so it's growing really fast," the young man, dressed in an expensive leather helmet, boots and white trousers, said after dismounting.

Peng, who was taking part in a luxury lifestyle event in Dalian, Liaoning province, spent several years in the United States and is typical of China's emerging upper class, with a keen interest in travel and Western leisure activities.