Our final match, or penalty shootout, was against a team that is very near and dear to me, that of my daughter Sara Story.  Although each team had only lost one match by one point against the top two teams in the tournament while disregarding handicaps favoring each of us, we faced off for fifth and sixth place.   Had we played our respective matches against the finalists, either one of us could have been in the finals rather than playing for the positions in our competition.  

We were tied in the first round and The Elephant Story squeaked by in sudden death.  I hope I never have to do this again.   

It clearly was time to relax and enjoy some of the various libations provided by team sponsors Louis Roederer Champagne, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Casillero Del Diablo wine, Mekhong whiskey, Hendrick's Gin and Chang (elephant in Thai) Beer.  One can begin to see a common theme in the sponsorships and the appeal it has to the players.   

Intermittent rain did not deter our spirits for the award ceremony.  The Thai-speaking foreigner was asked to make some comments to the leaders of the elephant mahouts.  What I did say was the weather had made the entire experience very challenging.  However, the camaraderie with the mahouts and their elephants gave everyone a good feeling.  Moreover, we were all very pleased to learn that the next King's Cup would be held during the dry season.  

I would add that the players and organizers made the most of a very bad situation.  At the end of the day, a good time was had by all but very little elephant polo was played.  Nonetheless, later this month, The Elephant Story team will travel to the Four Seasons Tented Camp in The Golden Triangle for a "friendly" against The Four Seasons team.  More to come in that regard later.