5 Sports That Are Considered “Old Money”
Have you ever envied the luxurious lifestyles associated with old money and wished you had the means to partake in the exclusive activities they enjoy? You’re not alone. These sports, often perceived as reserved for the elite, carry a sense of history, tradition, and affluence that has made them synonymous with old money. But what exactly is “old money,” and what are the sports that embody this wealth?
What Is Old Money?
“Old money” refers to families or individuals who have inherited wealth over several generations (+/- 7 generations), often dating back centuries. Unlike “new money,” which is wealth acquired in recent generations, old money is associated with tradition, prestige, and a sense of responsibility to maintain one’s status. The lifestyle of old money is often discreet, with an emphasis on preserving family heritage rather than flaunting wealth. One way this manifests is through participation in sports that have been passed down through generations, often requiring significant financial investment, time, and social connections.
5 Sports Old Money Play
1. Polo
- Brief History: Polo is often called “the sport of kings” and has ancient origins dating back to Persia around 2,500 years ago. It was later adopted by the British aristocracy in the 19th century and became a symbol of prestige and wealth.
- How It Became Old Money: Polo’s association with royalty and the upper class in Britain made it a staple among the wealthy. The sport requires a team of horses, extensive training, and access to exclusive clubs, making it an expensive pastime.
- Cost: Owning and maintaining polo ponies, along with membership fees at prestigious clubs, can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.
2. Yachting
- Brief History: Yachting originated in the 17th century with the Dutch navy and soon became a favourite pastime of European royalty. The sport gained popularity among the British elite during the Victorian era.
- How It Became Old Money: Yachting’s exclusivity stems from the substantial costs associated with owning and maintaining a yacht. The sport is often linked with luxury, leisure, and the affluent coastal lifestyles of the wealthy.
- Cost: Purchasing a yacht can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. Add in maintenance, crew salaries, and docking fees, and the yearly expenses can soar.
3. Equestrian Show Jumping
- Brief History: Equestrian sports, particularly show jumping, trace their roots to the hunting traditions of European nobility. The sport became formalised in the 18th century and was soon included in the Olympics.
- How It Became Old Money: Show jumping’s connection to aristocracy and land ownership, combined with the high costs of breeding, training, and caring for horses, has kept it firmly in the realm of the wealthy.
- Cost: Quality horses can cost from $10,000 to millions of dollars, with additional expenses for training, stabling, and competition fees.
4. Tennis
- Brief History: Tennis has been played in various forms since the Middle Ages, but it gained prominence as a sport of the upper class in the late 19th century. The All-England Club, home to Wimbledon, played a significant role in popularising the sport among the British elite.
- How It Became Old Money: Tennis clubs, especially those like Wimbledon, have long been associated with exclusivity and prestige. Membership in these clubs and participation in high-level tournaments is often a sign of old money.
- Cost: While public courts are available, membership in elite tennis clubs, coaching, and participation in prestigious tournaments can be quite costly, especially when factoring in travel and equipment.
5. Golf
- Brief History: Golf originated in Scotland in the 15th century and quickly became popular among the British aristocracy. The establishment of prestigious clubs like St. Andrews further cemented golf’s association with wealth.
- How It Became Old Money: Golf’s image as a gentleman’s sport, combined with the exclusivity of its most famous courses and clubs, has made it a favourite among the wealthy.
- Cost: Membership at top golf clubs can be prohibitively expensive, with initiation fees reaching into the six figures. Add in the cost of equipment, caddies, and travel to exclusive courses, and it becomes clear why golf is considered an old-money sport.
